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Former president Pranab Mukherjee on August 10 underwent successful brain surgery for the removal of a clot. The 84-year-old veteran politician, who had tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the day, is on ventilator support at Army's R&R hospital in Delhi.

Former India's President Pranab Mukherjee on ventilator support: Underwent brain surgery

The central government has agreed to restore 4G Internet in one district each in Jammu and Kashmir division on a trial basis, more than a year after high-speed internet services were suspended on August 5 last year.

Centre mulling 4G restoration in Jammu and Kashmir for two months

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi held a virtual meet with state chief ministers on COVID-19 situation in the country.

PM Modi's virtual conference on COVID-19 situation: Meets state chief ministers

To discuss deadly coronavirus related situation Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding a meeting with the chief ministers of 10 states to take stock of the coronavirus situation.

Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Punjab, Bihar, Gujarat, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh are in the meeting.

India on Tuesday reported single-day spike of 53,601 cases and 871 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 22, 68,676 including 6, 39,929 active cases, 15, 83,490 recovered/discharged/migrated and 45,257 deaths.

However, on the positive side, the number of recoveries mounted to almost 16 lakh, more than twice the active cases. The recovery rate has gone up to 69.80 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To discuss deadly coronavirus related situation Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding a meeting with the chief ministers of 10 states to take stock of the coronavirus situation.

To discuss deadly coronavirus related situation Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding a meeting with the chief ministers of 10 states to take stock of the coronavirus situation. Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Punjab, Bihar, Gujarat, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh are in the meeting. India on Tuesday reported single-day spike of 53,601 cases and 871 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 22, 68,676 including 6, 39,929 active cases, 15, 83,490 recovered/discharged/migrated and 45,257 deaths. However, on the positive side, the number of recoveries mounted to almost 16 lakh, more than twice the active cases. The recovery rate has gone up to 69.80 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 situation in India: PM Modi holds meet with chief ministers of 10 states

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday said it was his responsibility to address the grievances of MLAs.

But why did the MLAs go and what promises were made to them, only they know it, Gehlot said.

"If any MLA is annoyed with me, then it is my responsibility to address that. I have kept doing this in the past and will do this now also," Gehlot told reporters before leaving for Jaisalmer.

Gehlot's announcement comes after rebel Congress leader Sachin Pilot's meeting with Rahul Gandhi on Monday night that signalled an "amicable resolution" of nearly a month-long political crisis in the state.

Pilot revolted against Gehlot a month ago and told reporters on Monday that he and the other MLAs had raised organisational issues, the case of sedition filed by the SOG and the style of governance in the state, and expressed the hope that these will be addressed soon.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday said it was his responsibility to address the grievances of MLAs. But why did the MLAs go and what promises were made to them, only they know it, Gehlot said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Tuesday said it was his responsibility to address the grievances of MLAs. But why did the MLAs go and what promises were made to them, only they know it, Gehlot said. "If any MLA is annoyed with me, then it is my responsibility to address that. I have kept doing this in the past and will do this now also," Gehlot told reporters before leaving for Jaisalmer. Gehlot's announcement comes after rebel Congress leader Sachin Pilot's meeting with Rahul Gandhi on Monday night that signalled an "amicable resolution" of nearly a month-long political crisis in the state. Pilot revolted against Gehlot a month ago and told reporters on Monday that he and the other MLAs had raised organisational issues, the case of sedition filed by the SOG and the style of governance in the state, and expressed the hope that these will be addressed soon.

Will address grievances of rebel Congress MLAs, says Ashok Gehlot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland.

The prime minister&nbsp;laid the foundation for 2,312-kilometer Chennai - Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI) connecting submarine optical fibre cable project on December 30, 2018.

"This optical fibre cable project is a gift for the people of Andaman before the Independence Day. This is a symbol of our commitment towards ease of living. Be it online classes, tourism, banking, shopping, or telemedicine, thousands of families in Andaman and Nicobar will now get access," PM Modi said after inaugurating the project.

"From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today."

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The prime minister said that tourists will also reap huge benefits from this facility as better net connectivity is the first priority of any tourist destination. "The problem of mobile and Internet connectivity has now been resolved. Apart from this, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened."

The project is funded by the government of India through the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications.

The submarine OFC link will deliver a bandwidth of 2x200 Gigabits per second between Chennai and Port Blair, and 2x100 Gbps between Port Blair and other islands.

According to official data, internet with speed of 400 gigabyte (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands it will be 200 Gb per second.

Undersea cable linking Andaman Islands with Chennai was laid before time, Modi said while inaugurating the cable link. 
Work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months.

This project will give a boost to 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, tele-health, e-governance services and tourism on the islands.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland. The prime minister laid the foundation for 2,312-kilometer Chennai - Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI) connecting submarine optical fibre cable project on December 30, 2018. "This optical fibre cable project is a gift for the people of Andaman before the Independence Day. This is a symbol of our commitment towards ease of living. Be it online classes, tourism, banking, shopping, or telemedicine, thousands of families in Andaman and Nicobar will now get access," PM Modi said after inaugurating the project. "From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today." Big day for Andaman and Nicobar Islands! Watch. https://t.co/lNwI6KSEOj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 10, 2020 × The prime minister said that tourists will also reap huge benefits from this facility as better net connectivity is the first priority of any tourist destination. "The problem of mobile and Internet connectivity has now been resolved. Apart from this, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened." The project is funded by the government of India through the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications. The submarine OFC link will deliver a bandwidth of 2x200 Gigabits per second between Chennai and Port Blair, and 2x100 Gbps between Port Blair and other islands. According to official data, internet with speed of 400 gigabyte (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands it will be 200 Gb per second. Undersea cable linking Andaman Islands with Chennai was laid before time, Modi said while inaugurating the cable link. Work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months. This project will give a boost to 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, tele-health, e-governance services and tourism on the islands. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi inaugurates first ever optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities.

With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said.

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The state took just 16 days to reach the three lakh mark compared to the 22 days it had taken for the two lakh milestone on July 25. The one lakh tally was recorded on July 3.

The 6,037 recoveries on Monday eclipsed the fresh infections and cumulatively 2,44,675 people have got cured so far and only 53,099 were the active cases.

A four month-old girl child, a 14 year-old boy, four women, aged 21, 25, 27 and 32, and two men in their 30s were among those who succumbed to the virus on Monday.

In total, 105 of the dead had comorbidities.

In the state's tally of total cases, Chennai accounted for 1,10,121 while adjoining districts of Chengelpet 18,332, Kancheepuram 12,131 and Tiruvallur 17,340 cases.

Other northern districts, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Ranipet, Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Tirupattur together tallied 33,558 cases.

The northern districts, including Chennai, account for 63.23 per cent of the total positive cases in the state.

Madurai's share was 12,104, Virudhunagar 10,155, Tuticorin 9,357 and Coimbatore 6,961.

Of the new cases on Monday, Chennai recorded 976 while the combined total of Chengelpet (483), Kancheepuram (310) and Tiruvallur (399) stood at 1,192.

Southern district of Theni which has been witnessing a rise in cases added 357 more while Madurai reported 100, marking a dip when compared with the trend of high numbers witnessed by the temple city recently.

Barring August 2 and 8, the recoveries have outnumbered the fresh cases this month till date.

As many as 67,153 samples were tested and in total, 32,92,958 specimens have been examined and all tests were RT- PCR based as Tamil Nadu does not use the Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT).&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities. With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said.

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities. With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said. Also read | Tamil Nadu: Indian Coast Guard tows adrift boat to harbor, rescues 14 fishermen The state took just 16 days to reach the three lakh mark compared to the 22 days it had taken for the two lakh milestone on July 25. The one lakh tally was recorded on July 3. The 6,037 recoveries on Monday eclipsed the fresh infections and cumulatively 2,44,675 people have got cured so far and only 53,099 were the active cases. A four month-old girl child, a 14 year-old boy, four women, aged 21, 25, 27 and 32, and two men in their 30s were among those who succumbed to the virus on Monday. In total, 105 of the dead had comorbidities. In the state's tally of total cases, Chennai accounted for 1,10,121 while adjoining districts of Chengelpet 18,332, Kancheepuram 12,131 and Tiruvallur 17,340 cases. Other northern districts, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Ranipet, Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Tirupattur together tallied 33,558 cases. The northern districts, including Chennai, account for 63.23 per cent of the total positive cases in the state. Madurai's share was 12,104, Virudhunagar 10,155, Tuticorin 9,357 and Coimbatore 6,961. Of the new cases on Monday, Chennai recorded 976 while the combined total of Chengelpet (483), Kancheepuram (310) and Tiruvallur (399) stood at 1,192. Southern district of Theni which has been witnessing a rise in cases added 357 more while Madurai reported 100, marking a dip when compared with the trend of high numbers witnessed by the temple city recently. Barring August 2 and 8, the recoveries have outnumbered the fresh cases this month till date. As many as 67,153 samples were tested and in total, 32,92,958 specimens have been examined and all tests were RT- PCR based as Tamil Nadu does not use the Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT).

Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu case count breaches 300,000-mark, toll surges past 5,000

Rajasthan's COVID-19 death toll rose to 800 on Monday after 11 more patients succumbed to the disease, while 1,173 new cases took the infection tally to 53,670.

Three of the fresh deaths were reported from Dungarpur, two each from Barmer, Jodhpur and Kota, and one each from Pali and Rajsamand, a health department official said.

So far, 36,310 of the infected have been discharged after treatment. The state now has 13,810 active COVID-19 cases.

Of the 1,173 fresh cases, 170 were recorded in Kota, 165 in Alwar, 115 in Bikaner, 114 in Jaipur, 111 in Sikar, 80 in Jodhpur, 71 in Bharatpur, 42 in Banswara, 40 in Barmer, 38 in Udaipur, 34 in Ajmer and 28 in Bhilwara.

Nineteen cases were registered in Jhunjhunu, 18 each in Nagaur and Pratapgarh, 16 each in Churu and Dungarpur, 13 in Rajsamand, 11 each in Ganganagar and Jaisalmer, 10 in Jalore, nine in Chittorgarh, six in Tonk, five in Hanumangarh, four in Dausa, three in Baran, and two each in Dholpur, Sawaimadhopur and Sirohi.

Jaipur accounts for the highest number of COVID-19 deaths in the state at 219, followed by 87 in Jodhpur, 57 in Bharatpur, 55 in Ajmer, 48 in Bikaner, 47 in Kota, 35 in Nagaur, 33 in Pali, 23 in Alwar and 19 in Dholpur.

Rajasthan's COVID-19 death toll rose to 800 on Monday after 11 more patients succumbed to the disease, while 1,173 new cases took the infection tally to 53,670. Three of the fresh deaths were reported from Dungarpur, two each from Barmer, Jodhpur and Kota, and one each from Pali and Rajsamand, a health department official said.

Rajasthan's COVID-19 death toll rose to 800 on Monday after 11 more patients succumbed to the disease, while 1,173 new cases took the infection tally to 53,670. Three of the fresh deaths were reported from Dungarpur, two each from Barmer, Jodhpur and Kota, and one each from Pali and Rajsamand, a health department official said. So far, 36,310 of the infected have been discharged after treatment. The state now has 13,810 active COVID-19 cases. Of the 1,173 fresh cases, 170 were recorded in Kota, 165 in Alwar, 115 in Bikaner, 114 in Jaipur, 111 in Sikar, 80 in Jodhpur, 71 in Bharatpur, 42 in Banswara, 40 in Barmer, 38 in Udaipur, 34 in Ajmer and 28 in Bhilwara. Nineteen cases were registered in Jhunjhunu, 18 each in Nagaur and Pratapgarh, 16 each in Churu and Dungarpur, 13 in Rajsamand, 11 each in Ganganagar and Jaisalmer, 10 in Jalore, nine in Chittorgarh, six in Tonk, five in Hanumangarh, four in Dausa, three in Baran, and two each in Dholpur, Sawaimadhopur and Sirohi. Jaipur accounts for the highest number of COVID-19 deaths in the state at 219, followed by 87 in Jodhpur, 57 in Bharatpur, 55 in Ajmer, 48 in Bikaner, 47 in Kota, 35 in Nagaur, 33 in Pali, 23 in Alwar and 19 in Dholpur.

Rajasthan reports 11 more COVID-19 deaths, over 1,100 fresh cases

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin.

In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.58 per cent, it said.

The department, however, did not mention the total number of COVID-19 deceased in the respective age groups.

According to an official of the health department, who is also a doctor, most of those belonging to the age bracket of 61-75 years were found suffering from hypertension, diabetes or other ailments such as renal disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD), which ultimately led to their demise.

Age is definitely a factor, as the body's immune system tends to weaken as people grow old, which, in turn, affects their ability to combat a disease, senior physician Dr Syamasis Bandyopadhyay said.

"Moreover, they are also fighting multiple age-related ailments like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal failure and more. That is why the COVID-19 death rate is comparatively higher among the older population," the senior physician told PTI.

So far, as many as 1,861 coronavirus-affected in the state have died due to comorbidities, and COVID-19 in these cases were "incidental".

Bengal's COVID-19 tally climbed to 98,459 on Monday, with 2,905 fresh cases.

Forty-one people succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll in the state to 2,100.

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin. In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin. In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.58 per cent, it said. The department, however, did not mention the total number of COVID-19 deceased in the respective age groups. According to an official of the health department, who is also a doctor, most of those belonging to the age bracket of 61-75 years were found suffering from hypertension, diabetes or other ailments such as renal disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD), which ultimately led to their demise. Age is definitely a factor, as the body's immune system tends to weaken as people grow old, which, in turn, affects their ability to combat a disease, senior physician Dr Syamasis Bandyopadhyay said. "Moreover, they are also fighting multiple age-related ailments like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal failure and more. That is why the COVID-19 death rate is comparatively higher among the older population," the senior physician told PTI. So far, as many as 1,861 coronavirus-affected in the state have died due to comorbidities, and COVID-19 in these cases were "incidental". Bengal's COVID-19 tally climbed to 98,459 on Monday, with 2,905 fresh cases. Forty-one people succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll in the state to 2,100.

COVID-19 fatality rate in Bengal highest among people over 75 years: Health department

India has recorded a spike of 62,064 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24-hours, according to the report of the Union Health Ministry.&nbsp;

The rise in daily caseload took the tally to 22, 15,075 including 6, 34,945 active cases, 15, 35,744 cured or discharged and total 44,386 deaths.

Active coronavirus cases in worst-hit Maharashtra have now reached 1, 45,865.

Taking to Twitter, the Union Health Ministry informed that India's COVID-19 recoveries cross the historic peak of 1.5 million and the infection is now concentrated in 10 States that contribute more than 80 per cent of the new cases.

"India's #COVID19 recoveries cross the historic peak of 1.5 million. Recovery of more than 15 lakh has been made possible because of the policy of TESTING aggressively, TRACKING comprehensively &amp; TREATING efficiently. Better ambulance services, focus on Standard of Care &amp; use of non-invasive oxygen have given desired results," MoHFW tweeted.

"#COVID19 infection still remains concentrated in 10 States that contribute more than 80% of the new cases," the ministry tweeted.

(With inputs from ANI)

India has recorded a spike of 62,064 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24-hours, according to the report of the Union Health Ministry. The rise in daily caseload took the tally to 22, 15,075 including 6, 34,945 active cases, 15, 35,744 cured or discharged and total 44,386 deaths.

India has recorded a spike of 62,064 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24-hours, according to the report of the Union Health Ministry. The rise in daily caseload took the tally to 22, 15,075 including 6, 34,945 active cases, 15, 35,744 cured or discharged and total 44,386 deaths. Active coronavirus cases in worst-hit Maharashtra have now reached 1, 45,865. Taking to Twitter, the Union Health Ministry informed that India's COVID-19 recoveries cross the historic peak of 1.5 million and the infection is now concentrated in 10 States that contribute more than 80 per cent of the new cases. "India's #COVID19 recoveries cross the historic peak of 1.5 million. Recovery of more than 15 lakh has been made possible because of the policy of TESTING aggressively, TRACKING comprehensively & TREATING efficiently. Better ambulance services, focus on Standard of Care & use of non-invasive oxygen have given desired results," MoHFW tweeted. "#COVID19 infection still remains concentrated in 10 States that contribute more than 80% of the new cases," the ministry tweeted. (With inputs from ANI)

India records 62,064 fresh cases, over 1,000 deaths in last 24-hours

India will be sending relief and humanitarian supplies to Lebanon as the country deals with the aftermath of the Beirut blast that killed more than 200 people.

India's envoy to United Nations TS&nbsp;Tirumurti said, "India has just recently sent Lebanon essential medical items to combat COVID-19. We are immediately sending more relief and humanitarian material of medicines, foodstuff and other essential items to do whatever we can to alleviate the difficulties on the ground. We are discussing with the Government of Lebanon on how we can contribute further."

He was speaking at United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs UNOCHA meeting on Lebanon.

Extending India's condolences to Lebanon on the "terrible human tragedy", Envoy Tirumurti said, "We are shocked by the loss of human lives and the widespread destruction this has caused in Beirut. We pray for strength to families to overcome their great loss."

Recalling his visit to the city of Beirut last year and India’s close relations, including through "our peacekeepers" in United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) , he added, "I admire the resilience of the people and the dedication of the rescue workers to cope with this tragedy".

India will be sending relief and humanitarian supplies to Lebanon as the country deals with the aftermath of the Beirut blast that killed more than 200 people. India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India has just recently sent Lebanon essential medical items to combat COVID-19.

India will be sending relief and humanitarian supplies to Lebanon as the country deals with the aftermath of the Beirut blast that killed more than 200 people. India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India has just recently sent Lebanon essential medical items to combat COVID-19. We are immediately sending more relief and humanitarian material of medicines, foodstuff and other essential items to do whatever we can to alleviate the difficulties on the ground. We are discussing with the Government of Lebanon on how we can contribute further." He was speaking at United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs UNOCHA meeting on Lebanon. Extending India's condolences to Lebanon on the "terrible human tragedy", Envoy Tirumurti said, "We are shocked by the loss of human lives and the widespread destruction this has caused in Beirut. We pray for strength to families to overcome their great loss." Recalling his visit to the city of Beirut last year and India’s close relations, including through "our peacekeepers" in United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) , he added, "I admire the resilience of the people and the dedication of the rescue workers to cope with this tragedy".

Beirut blast: India to send relief and humanitarian supplies to Lebanon

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said.

"Pranab Mukherjee is on ventilator support at Army's R&amp;R hospital: Sources," tweeted news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Various reports claimed that the 84-year-old is on ventilator support following a successfuly brain surgery to remove a clot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-tests-positive-for-covid-19-319434">Former president Pranab Mukherjee tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Earlier today, the former president announced on Twitter that he is tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-cm-yediyurappa-recovers-from-covid-19-discharged-from-hospital-319497">Karnataka CM Yediyurappa recovers from COVID-19, discharged from hospital</a>

He also asked people who met him to self-isolate and get themselves tested.&nbsp;

"I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted.&nbsp;

The coronavirus situation in India is getting serious by the day, with signs of peak nowhere near.

Many high-profile personalities and senior ministers have tested positive with the deadly virus, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and megastar Amitabh Bachchan.

Also, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was discharged from a hospital after he successfully recovered from COVID-19.

On Monday, India reported 62,064 new cases in the last 24 hours, continuing the daily trend of recording over 60,000 cases for the last few days.&nbsp;

The death toll of the country stands at 44,386 with 22,15,075 cases.&nbsp;

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said.

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said. "Pranab Mukherjee is on ventilator support at Army's R&R hospital: Sources," tweeted news agency PTI. Various reports claimed that the 84-year-old is on ventilator support following a successfuly brain surgery to remove a clot. Also read | Former president Pranab Mukherjee tests positive for COVID-19 Earlier today, the former president announced on Twitter that he is tested positive for COVID-19. Also read | Karnataka CM Yediyurappa recovers from COVID-19, discharged from hospital He also asked people who met him to self-isolate and get themselves tested. "I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted. The coronavirus situation in India is getting serious by the day, with signs of peak nowhere near. Many high-profile personalities and senior ministers have tested positive with the deadly virus, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and megastar Amitabh Bachchan. Also, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was discharged from a hospital after he successfully recovered from COVID-19. On Monday, India reported 62,064 new cases in the last 24 hours, continuing the daily trend of recording over 60,000 cases for the last few days. The death toll of the country stands at 44,386 with 22,15,075 cases.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, infected with COVID-19 on ventilator support: Sources

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.&nbsp;

India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009.

The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative (DPR),&nbsp;both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be&nbsp;Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra.&nbsp;

Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic &amp; Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing.

With a strong Beijing connection, four&nbsp;diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018.&nbsp;

India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, &nbsp;Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police.

India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries.&nbsp;

It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021. India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009. The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR), both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be Deputy Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra. Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic & Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing. With a strong Beijing connection, four diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018. India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police. India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries. It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India to send 4 diplomats to New York as it takes seat at UNSC high table

A group of Indian-Americans from in and around the national capital held a protest here against China's aggression towards India and the human rights violations of Uyghur minority groups in the country's restive Muslim-majority Xinjiang region.

Maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, the peaceful protestors on Sunday gathered at the historic national mall facing the US Capitol and displayed anti-China posters, banners and raised slogans against the Communist Party of China (CPC) and its leaders.

"This summer while the world was fighting coronavirus, China was trying to encroach upon other's land. It's not only in Ladakh in India but also against its other neighbours as well. It's time that the world unites against this Chinese aggression," said Adapa Prasad from Overseas Friends of BJP USA.

Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a bitter standoff in several areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The situation deteriorated after the June 15 Galwan Valley clashes in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed and an unconfirmed number of Chinese soldiers died.

"China's Communist party has infringed on the religious rights of the Uyghur community and violated human rights of people of Hong Kong,"&nbsp;Puneet Ahluwalia, who is an Indian-American Republican and founder of the Proud American Political Action Committee, said.

Ahluwalia, who is exploring to run for the post of Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, said US President Donald Trump's hard measures against China was in the right direction.

"China has to play international rules," he said.

"We have seen what they have done in Africa. We have seen that they are doing in Iran...Most importantly, they recently backstabbed India,? Ahluwalia said, alleging that China is spying on Americans through various social media applications and by stealing data and information.

Sunil Singh, an eminent Indian-American from the Greater Washington DC area, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for banning Chinese applications in India.

Noting that people of India have stopped buying China made goods, he said there was also a need for the Americans to make a similar move.

This was the second major anti-China protest by Indian-Americans here in Washington DC.

A group of Indian-Americans from in and around the national capital held a protest here against China's aggression towards India and the human rights violations of Uyghur minority groups in the country's restive Muslim-majority Xinjiang region.

A group of Indian-Americans from in and around the national capital held a protest here against China's aggression towards India and the human rights violations of Uyghur minority groups in the country's restive Muslim-majority Xinjiang region. Maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, the peaceful protestors on Sunday gathered at the historic national mall facing the US Capitol and displayed anti-China posters, banners and raised slogans against the Communist Party of China (CPC) and its leaders. "This summer while the world was fighting coronavirus, China was trying to encroach upon other's land. It's not only in Ladakh in India but also against its other neighbours as well. It's time that the world unites against this Chinese aggression," said Adapa Prasad from Overseas Friends of BJP USA. Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a bitter standoff in several areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The situation deteriorated after the June 15 Galwan Valley clashes in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed and an unconfirmed number of Chinese soldiers died. "China's Communist party has infringed on the religious rights of the Uyghur community and violated human rights of people of Hong Kong," Puneet Ahluwalia, who is an Indian-American Republican and founder of the Proud American Political Action Committee, said. Ahluwalia, who is exploring to run for the post of Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, said US President Donald Trump's hard measures against China was in the right direction. "China has to play international rules," he said. "We have seen what they have done in Africa. We have seen that they are doing in Iran...Most importantly, they recently backstabbed India,? Ahluwalia said, alleging that China is spying on Americans through various social media applications and by stealing data and information. Sunil Singh, an eminent Indian-American from the Greater Washington DC area, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for banning Chinese applications in India. Noting that people of India have stopped buying China made goods, he said there was also a need for the Americans to make a similar move. This was the second major anti-China protest by Indian-Americans here in Washington DC.

Indo-Americans protest China's aggression against India, human rights violations of Uyghurs

Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot.

Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/sachin-pilots-aspirations-are-clear-how-he-may-achieve-them-is-not-317323">Sachin Pilot's aspirations are clear, how he may achieve them is not</a>

"Sachin Pilot met with ex-Congress President Rahul Gandhi &amp; expressed his grievances in detail. They had a frank, open &amp; conclusive discussion. Sachin Pilot has committed to working in interest of Congress party &amp; Congress govt in Rajasthan, said KC Venugopal, General Secretary, All India Congress Committee (AICC), reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dynasts-in-democracy-the-rise-and-surprise-of-sachin-pilot-316376">Dynasts in democracy: The rise and surprise of Sachin Pilot</a>

"Following this meeting, Congress President Sonia Gandhi has decided that the AICC will constitute a three-member committee to address the issues raised by Sachin Pilot &amp; the aggrieved MLA and arrive at an appropriate resolution thereof."

Earlier, sources close to Pilot said that the meeting lasted for nearly two hours and the Pilot camp was assured that all their concerns will be settled, said news agency PTI.

Other sources also said that the rebel leader is in touch with top leadership and formula is being worked upon for Pilot's return.&nbsp;

The political crisis in Rajasthan began after Pilot and 18 other MLAs rebelled against the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government, which led to Pilot's removal as deputy chief minister and state party head. &nbsp;

Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot. Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began.

Congress has finally agreed to constitute a three-member committee to address the grievances raised by rebel leader Sachin Pilot. Earlier in the day, Pilot met senior party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on Monday, the first time since the political crisis in Rajasthan began. Also read | Sachin Pilot's aspirations are clear, how he may achieve them is not "Sachin Pilot met with ex-Congress President Rahul Gandhi & expressed his grievances in detail. They had a frank, open & conclusive discussion. Sachin Pilot has committed to working in interest of Congress party & Congress govt in Rajasthan, said KC Venugopal, General Secretary, All India Congress Committee (AICC), reported news agency ANI. Also read | Dynasts in democracy: The rise and surprise of Sachin Pilot "Following this meeting, Congress President Sonia Gandhi has decided that the AICC will constitute a three-member committee to address the issues raised by Sachin Pilot & the aggrieved MLA and arrive at an appropriate resolution thereof." Earlier, sources close to Pilot said that the meeting lasted for nearly two hours and the Pilot camp was assured that all their concerns will be settled, said news agency PTI. Other sources also said that the rebel leader is in touch with top leadership and formula is being worked upon for Pilot's return. The political crisis in Rajasthan began after Pilot and 18 other MLAs rebelled against the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government, which led to Pilot's removal as deputy chief minister and state party head.

Congress forms three-member committee to address Sachin Pilot's grievances

Customs officials at the Chennai airport have been in a state of alert after the frequency of repatriation flights and special flights to the city have increased. In the latest develop[ment, a total of 402 grams of gold valued at Rs.22.21 lakhs was seized under Customs Act 1962, in two separate incidents.

Two persons who had traveled on the Air India Express Flight IX-1642 from Abu Dhabi had carried gold paste, by concealing it in a pouch in their shirt sleeves. They were caught by customs officials after frisking. The persons were identified as Saminathan Kannan, 41, and Thangavel Sivasankar, 49, both natives of Thanjavur

Likewise, Kamarudeen Shajahan, 57, a native of Trichy &nbsp;who arrived from Abu Dhabi by Air India Express Flight IX-1638 was intercepted at the exit. Upon search, one gold paste pouch was found concealed in his inner wear.&nbsp;

Recently, there was also an instance of attempted smuggling by hiding gold in toys and watches. The baggage, in this case had come as unaccompanied baggage from Dubai, as the passenger had reached earlier. 388 grams of gold worth Rs. 18.5 lakhs were seized from the passenger’s personal goods. On examination, the goods- one toy car and four watches were found to be unusually heavy. On opening the toy car, a transformer was found inside and on dismantling, it was found to be made of 13, E-shaped &amp; two I-shaped gold plates. On opening the back cover of the watches, one gold cut ring was found concealed inside each. Total 388 grams of gold of 24K purity valued at Rs.18.5 lakhs was recovered and seized under Customs Act, 1962.

Senior Officials say that such modus operandi are quite new and that they are vigilant to curb such cases of smuggling, which are said to be on the rise given the shooting up gold prices. It is also observed that some of the carriers are laborers who are bringing the gold that is offered by smugglers for a small sum of money.&nbsp;

Customs officials at the Chennai airport have been in a state of alert after the frequency of repatriation flights and special flights to the city have increased.

Customs officials at the Chennai airport have been in a state of alert after the frequency of repatriation flights and special flights to the city have increased. In the latest develop[ment, a total of 402 grams of gold valued at Rs.22.21 lakhs was seized under Customs Act 1962, in two separate incidents. Two persons who had traveled on the Air India Express Flight IX-1642 from Abu Dhabi had carried gold paste, by concealing it in a pouch in their shirt sleeves. They were caught by customs officials after frisking. The persons were identified as Saminathan Kannan, 41, and Thangavel Sivasankar, 49, both natives of Thanjavur Likewise, Kamarudeen Shajahan, 57, a native of Trichy who arrived from Abu Dhabi by Air India Express Flight IX-1638 was intercepted at the exit. Upon search, one gold paste pouch was found concealed in his inner wear. Recently, there was also an instance of attempted smuggling by hiding gold in toys and watches. The baggage, in this case had come as unaccompanied baggage from Dubai, as the passenger had reached earlier. 388 grams of gold worth Rs. 18.5 lakhs were seized from the passenger’s personal goods. On examination, the goods- one toy car and four watches were found to be unusually heavy. On opening the toy car, a transformer was found inside and on dismantling, it was found to be made of 13, E-shaped & two I-shaped gold plates. On opening the back cover of the watches, one gold cut ring was found concealed inside each. Total 388 grams of gold of 24K purity valued at Rs.18.5 lakhs was recovered and seized under Customs Act, 1962. Senior Officials say that such modus operandi are quite new and that they are vigilant to curb such cases of smuggling, which are said to be on the rise given the shooting up gold prices. It is also observed that some of the carriers are laborers who are bringing the gold that is offered by smugglers for a small sum of money.

Gold worth Rs 22 lakh seized at Chennai airport

The head of state of Iran Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei has opened an official Twitter account in Hindi.

The new account, which has Iran’s supreme leader bio written in Devanagari. After the opening of the account, he has posted two tweets in Hindi.

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अल्लाह के नाम से, जो अत्यन्त कृपाशील तथा दयावान है
— आयतुल्लाह सय्यद अली ख़ामेनई (@In_khamenei) <a href="https://twitter.com/In_khamenei/status/1292114231995912192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He has also opened accounts in other languages like Persian, Arabic, Urdu, French, Spanish, Russian and English.

His new Twitter account has more than 2000 followers.

Ayatollah Khamenei is a Twelver Shia Marja' and the second and current Supreme Leader of Iran.

He was previously President of Iran from 1981 to 1989. Ayatollah Khamenei is the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East, in office since 1989.

(With inputs from ANI)

The head of state of Iran Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei has opened an official Twitter account in Hindi. The new account, which has Iran’s supreme leader bio written in Devanagari.

The head of state of Iran Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei has opened an official Twitter account in Hindi. The new account, which has Iran’s supreme leader bio written in Devanagari. After the opening of the account, he has posted two tweets in Hindi. अल्लाह के नाम से, जो अत्यन्त कृपाशील तथा दयावान है — आयतुल्लाह सय्यद अली ख़ामेनई (@In_khamenei) August 8, 2020 × He has also opened accounts in other languages like Persian, Arabic, Urdu, French, Spanish, Russian and English. His new Twitter account has more than 2000 followers. Ayatollah Khamenei is a Twelver Shia Marja' and the second and current Supreme Leader of Iran. He was previously President of Iran from 1981 to 1989. Ayatollah Khamenei is the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East, in office since 1989. (With inputs from ANI)

Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei creates official Hindi Twitter account

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has recovered 'completely' from COVID-19 and was on Monday discharged from a private hospital here, the state government said.

The 77-year old leader was admitted to the Manipal Hospital on August 2 after he tested positive for coronavirus.

"After recovering from COVID-19 completely, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has been discharged from the Manipal Hospital," an official statement said here.

"Thank you everyone for your wishes and prayers. I have been discharged from the hospital and will be in self- quarantine. Deeply grateful for your affection and support. I look forward to getting back to the routine very soon," he said.

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Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was today discharged from Manipal Hospitals in Bengaluru after he recovered from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>: Karnataka Chief Minister's Office (CMO) 
 
The CM had tested positive for the disease on August 2. <a href="https://t.co/j9XIanY7FH">pic.twitter.com/j9XIanY7FH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1292790209420169221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pictures released by the Information Department showed a team of doctors giving a bouquet and along with paramedics greeting the chief minister.

Yediyurappa, in his trademark all-white attire and wearing a face mask, was seen in another picture walking out of the hospital, acknowledging the staff's wishes with folded hands.

On August 2, Yediyurappa had tweeted that he has tested positive for COVID-19 and was being hospitalised as a precaution on the recommendation of doctors though he was fine.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has recovered 'completely' from COVID-19 and was on Monday discharged from a private hospital here, the state government said.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has recovered 'completely' from COVID-19 and was on Monday discharged from a private hospital here, the state government said. The 77-year old leader was admitted to the Manipal Hospital on August 2 after he tested positive for coronavirus. "After recovering from COVID-19 completely, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has been discharged from the Manipal Hospital," an official statement said here. "Thank you everyone for your wishes and prayers. I have been discharged from the hospital and will be in self- quarantine. Deeply grateful for your affection and support. I look forward to getting back to the routine very soon," he said. Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was today discharged from Manipal Hospitals in Bengaluru after he recovered from #COVID19: Karnataka Chief Minister's Office (CMO) The CM had tested positive for the disease on August 2. pic.twitter.com/j9XIanY7FH — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2020 × Pictures released by the Information Department showed a team of doctors giving a bouquet and along with paramedics greeting the chief minister. Yediyurappa, in his trademark all-white attire and wearing a face mask, was seen in another picture walking out of the hospital, acknowledging the staff's wishes with folded hands. On August 2, Yediyurappa had tweeted that he has tested positive for COVID-19 and was being hospitalised as a precaution on the recommendation of doctors though he was fine.

Karnataka CM Yediyurappa recovers from COVID-19, discharged from hospital

India's novel coronavirus tally crossed the 22-lakh mark on Monday with 62,064 new cases in the last 24 hours.

India: COVID-19 cases cross 22 Lakh mark; Death toll surpasses 44,000

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The 2,312-kilometre-long submarine optical fibre cable from Chennai to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, laid at a cost of Rs 1,224 crore, will provide "better and cheaper connectivity", Modi&nbsp;said.

"There is a proposal to build a transhipment port at Great Nicobar at an estimated expenditure of about Rs 10,000 crore. Large ships can dock once this port is ready," he said at the inauguration ceremony held through video link.

The dedicated container transshipment terminal at the strategic port locale in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands along the Bay of Bengal coastline offers two geographical advantages -- proximity to the busy east-west international shipping route that can facilitate shorter transits and greater economies of scale, and deep natural water depths that can accommodate the latest generation of mega-ships.

The transshipment port would enable big ships to anchor and raise India's share in maritime trade as well as create new job opportunities, he said.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration had last year floated an expression of interest for the container transshipment terminal with the Free Trade Warehousing Zone in South Bay, Great Nicobar Island to provide Indian shippers an alternative to Colombo, Singapore and Port Klang (Malaysia) transshipment ports.

The Prime Minister said Andaman &amp; Nicobar will be developed as a hub of port-led development as it is at a competitive distance from many ports of the world.

As India looks to establish itself as an important player in global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen the network of waterways and ports, he said adding legal bottlenecks in the development of port infrastructure are also being removed continuously.

The government's focus, he said, is also on promoting ease of business and simplifying maritime logistics.

He referred to in-principal approval being given for building a deep draft greenfield seaport on the west coast and work starting on a deep draft inner harbour on the east coast.

While blue economy like fisheries, aquaculture, and seaweed farming will accelerate the development of Andaman and Nicobar, the government is making efforts to have more facilities at the Islands.

The undersea cable will help boost tourism as it will provide better mobile and internet connectivity on the Islands, he said.

"From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today," Modi said adding it will boost 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, telehealth, e-governance services and tourism on the Islands.

Besides Port Blair, it will connect other islands namely Swaraj Dweep (Havlock), Long Island, Rangat, Little Andaman, Kamorta, Car Nicobar, and Greater Nicobar.

According to official data, an internet speed of 400 gigabytes (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands, it will be 200 Gb per second.

Undersea cable linking the Andaman and Nocobar Islands with Chennai was laid before time despite the difficult situation, Modi said.

The work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months.

Besides mobile and internet connectivity, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened, he said referring to two big bridges and widening of National Highway No.4 being undertaken to improve road connectivity between North and Middle Andaman.

He said the Port Blair Airport is being enhanced to handle a capacity of 1,200 passengers. Along with this, the airports are ready for operations in Diglipur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell-Bay.

Seaplane services will start once water aerodrome infrastructure including passenger terminal and floating jetty is ready at Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island, he said adding four ships being built at Kochi Shipyard shall be delivered soon to improve the water connectivity between the islands and the mainland.

The Prime Minister said that when India is moving forward with the resolve of self-sufficiency and is establishing itself as an important player in the global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen our network of waterways and our ports.

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The 2,312-kilometre-long submarine optical fibre cable from Chennai to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, laid at a cost of Rs 1,224 crore, will provide "better and cheaper connectivity", Modi said. "There is a proposal to build a transhipment port at Great Nicobar at an estimated expenditure of about Rs 10,000 crore. Large ships can dock once this port is ready," he said at the inauguration ceremony held through video link. The dedicated container transshipment terminal at the strategic port locale in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands along the Bay of Bengal coastline offers two geographical advantages -- proximity to the busy east-west international shipping route that can facilitate shorter transits and greater economies of scale, and deep natural water depths that can accommodate the latest generation of mega-ships. The transshipment port would enable big ships to anchor and raise India's share in maritime trade as well as create new job opportunities, he said. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration had last year floated an expression of interest for the container transshipment terminal with the Free Trade Warehousing Zone in South Bay, Great Nicobar Island to provide Indian shippers an alternative to Colombo, Singapore and Port Klang (Malaysia) transshipment ports. The Prime Minister said Andaman & Nicobar will be developed as a hub of port-led development as it is at a competitive distance from many ports of the world. As India looks to establish itself as an important player in global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen the network of waterways and ports, he said adding legal bottlenecks in the development of port infrastructure are also being removed continuously. The government's focus, he said, is also on promoting ease of business and simplifying maritime logistics. He referred to in-principal approval being given for building a deep draft greenfield seaport on the west coast and work starting on a deep draft inner harbour on the east coast. While blue economy like fisheries, aquaculture, and seaweed farming will accelerate the development of Andaman and Nicobar, the government is making efforts to have more facilities at the Islands. The undersea cable will help boost tourism as it will provide better mobile and internet connectivity on the Islands, he said. "From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today," Modi said adding it will boost 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, telehealth, e-governance services and tourism on the Islands. Besides Port Blair, it will connect other islands namely Swaraj Dweep (Havlock), Long Island, Rangat, Little Andaman, Kamorta, Car Nicobar, and Greater Nicobar. According to official data, an internet speed of 400 gigabytes (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands, it will be 200 Gb per second. Undersea cable linking the Andaman and Nocobar Islands with Chennai was laid before time despite the difficult situation, Modi said. The work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months. Besides mobile and internet connectivity, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened, he said referring to two big bridges and widening of National Highway No.4 being undertaken to improve road connectivity between North and Middle Andaman. He said the Port Blair Airport is being enhanced to handle a capacity of 1,200 passengers. Along with this, the airports are ready for operations in Diglipur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell-Bay. Seaplane services will start once water aerodrome infrastructure including passenger terminal and floating jetty is ready at Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island, he said adding four ships being built at Kochi Shipyard shall be delivered soon to improve the water connectivity between the islands and the mainland. The Prime Minister said that when India is moving forward with the resolve of self-sufficiency and is establishing itself as an important player in the global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen our network of waterways and our ports.

India plans Rs 10,000 crore transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island: PM Modi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched &nbsp;'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday.

If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country. With the help of that capital, around 7000 MSMEs, associated with Defence Industry, can be encouraged, he said speaking at the launch.

On August 9, Singh had announced that the Defence Ministry will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production while stating it as a big step towards `Atmanirbhar Bharat` (self-reliance) in defence.

In a series of tweets, the Minister had said that the Defence Ministry has also bifurcated the capital procurement budget for 2020-21 between domestic and foreign capital procurement routes.&nbsp;

A separate budget head has been created with an outlay of nearly Rs 52,000 crore for domestic capital procurement in the current financial year, he had said.

"The Ministry of Defence is now ready for a big push to #AtmanirbharBharat initiative. MoD will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production," Singh had tweeted.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for a self-reliant India based on the five pillars, i.e., Economy, Infrastructure, System, Demography and Demand and announced a special economic package for Self-Reliant India named `Atmanirbhar Bharat`," he had said in another tweet.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday. If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' at South Block on Monday. If India becomes capable of manufacturing things in India, we will be able to save a large section of the capital of the country. With the help of that capital, around 7000 MSMEs, associated with Defence Industry, can be encouraged, he said speaking at the launch. On August 9, Singh had announced that the Defence Ministry will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production while stating it as a big step towards `Atmanirbhar Bharat` (self-reliance) in defence. In a series of tweets, the Minister had said that the Defence Ministry has also bifurcated the capital procurement budget for 2020-21 between domestic and foreign capital procurement routes. A separate budget head has been created with an outlay of nearly Rs 52,000 crore for domestic capital procurement in the current financial year, he had said. "The Ministry of Defence is now ready for a big push to #AtmanirbharBharat initiative. MoD will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production," Singh had tweeted. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for a self-reliant India based on the five pillars, i.e., Economy, Infrastructure, System, Demography and Demand and announced a special economic package for Self-Reliant India named `Atmanirbhar Bharat`," he had said in another tweet.

Rajnath Singh launches  'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah' in Delhi

Fifty-six passengers, who had suffered injuries in the Kozhikode plane crash, have been discharged from various hospitals after obtaining complete fitness, according to Air India Express. 
 
The Air India Express flight carrying 190 passengers, including 10 infants, crash-landed at Kozhikode airport on August 7, claiming 18 lives including two pilots.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/plane-splits-into-two-during-landing-at-kozhikode-airport-in-kerala-pilot-dead-318914" hreflang="en">At least 15 dead, including pilot in plane crash at Kerala airport</a> 
 
The black box of Air India Express flight was brought to Delhi on Sunday and has been kept at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) lab for examination. 
 
Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that findings of the investigation into the accident will be made public.

Fifty-six passengers, who had suffered injuries in the Kozhikode plane crash, have been discharged from various hospitals after obtaining complete fitness, according to Air India Express.

Fifty-six passengers, who had suffered injuries in the Kozhikode plane crash, have been discharged from various hospitals after obtaining complete fitness, according to Air India Express. The Air India Express flight carrying 190 passengers, including 10 infants, crash-landed at Kozhikode airport on August 7, claiming 18 lives including two pilots. Also read: At least 15 dead, including pilot in plane crash at Kerala airport The black box of Air India Express flight was brought to Delhi on Sunday and has been kept at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) lab for examination. Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that findings of the investigation into the accident will be made public.

56 passengers injured in Kozhikode plane crash discharged

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (July 10) inaugurated the submarine Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) connecting Chennai and Port Blair, via video conferencing.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates submarine optical fibre cable connecting Port Blair and Chennai

Former president Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for COVID-19. He tweeted on Monday noon to inform about his condition.

"On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today," he posted on Twitter.

"I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee said.&nbsp;

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On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today. 
I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenMukherjee?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenMukherjee</a>
— Pranab Mukherjee (@CitiznMukherjee) <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee/status/1292726865984024577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala along with several other party leaders wished Mukherjee a speedy recovery.

"We wish former President Pranab Mukherjee a speedy recovery from Covid," the Congress said on its official Twitter handle.

Several leaders from across the political spectrum also wished him a speedy recovery.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweeted, "I have come to know former President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for Covid-19...Concerned about his health. Wish him a speedy recovery."

Union minister Piyush Goyal also wished good health for Mukherjee, and said he was confident that the former president will be successful in recovering from the virus quickly.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for COVID-19. He tweeted on Monday noon to inform about his condition. "On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today," he posted on Twitter.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for COVID-19. He tweeted on Monday noon to inform about his condition. "On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today," he posted on Twitter. "I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee said. On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today. I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19. #CitizenMukherjee — Pranab Mukherjee (@CitiznMukherjee) August 10, 2020 × Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala along with several other party leaders wished Mukherjee a speedy recovery. "We wish former President Pranab Mukherjee a speedy recovery from Covid," the Congress said on its official Twitter handle. Several leaders from across the political spectrum also wished him a speedy recovery. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweeted, "I have come to know former President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee has tested positive for Covid-19...Concerned about his health. Wish him a speedy recovery." Union minister Piyush Goyal also wished good health for Mukherjee, and said he was confident that the former president will be successful in recovering from the virus quickly.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee tests positive for COVID-19

A&nbsp;27-year-old man was saved through joint efforts of Facebook, Delhi police and Mumbai police on Saturday night with the help of technology.

An Ireland-based Facebook employee spotted various pictures and videos on this man's profile that hinted towards a possibility of suicidal thoughts.&nbsp;

The Facebook staffer reacted quickly and wittingly to these red flags and contacted&nbsp;Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber) Anyesh Roy as the victim, whose name has not been revealed, had his contact number registered to a Delhi network.

The Delhi Police traced the number under the command of&nbsp;Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Jasmeet Singh and reached to the listed address, only to find out the resident of the property, the unnamed man's wife, to be safe on Saturday night.

However, the woman informed the police that the Facebook account was handled by her husband who had left for Mumbai few days ago, after a fight, to work as a Chef in a small hotel.

Roy contacted his Mumbai counterpart&nbsp;DCP (Cyber) Rashmi Karandikar, who started a search mission for the man, with nothing but just his phone number.

Karandikar was able to locate and save the man around 1:30 am, after asking his mother to video call him, which didn't connect. His location was traced after he called back his mother through another phone number.

"The man then contacted his mother through another number and that's how we traced his location. For an hour, one of my officers kept him engaged on phone call and tried to convince him to not take any an extreme step," the senior Mumbai police officer said.

The man claimed he was under huge financial burden and was unable to provide for his family, especially his newly-born child.

If you or someone you know wants help for mental well being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional.&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="http://aasra.info/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Aasra</a>&nbsp;(Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726,&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://snehaindia.org/new/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sneha</a>&nbsp;(Chennai) 044-24640050,&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="http://sumaitri.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sumaitri&nbsp;</a>(Delhi) 011-23389090,<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://cooj.co.in/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;Cooj</a>&nbsp;(Goa) 0832- 2252525,&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://jeevanhelplinesuicideprevention.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jeevan</a>&nbsp;(Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830,&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="http://www.maithrikochi.in/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Maithri&nbsp;</a>(Kochi) 0484-2540530,&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://roshnitrusthyd.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Roshni&nbsp;</a>(Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata),&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" href="https://parivarthan.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Parivarthan</a>&nbsp;(Bangalore) +91 76766 02602 
&nbsp;

WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations

A 27-year-old man was saved through joint efforts of Facebook, Delhi police and Mumbai police on Saturday night with the help of technology. An Ireland-based Facebook employee spotted various pictures and videos on this man's profile that hinted towards a possibility of suicidal thoughts.

A 27-year-old man was saved through joint efforts of Facebook, Delhi police and Mumbai police on Saturday night with the help of technology. An Ireland-based Facebook employee spotted various pictures and videos on this man's profile that hinted towards a possibility of suicidal thoughts. The Facebook staffer reacted quickly and wittingly to these red flags and contacted Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber) Anyesh Roy as the victim, whose name has not been revealed, had his contact number registered to a Delhi network. The Delhi Police traced the number under the command of Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Jasmeet Singh and reached to the listed address, only to find out the resident of the property, the unnamed man's wife, to be safe on Saturday night. However, the woman informed the police that the Facebook account was handled by her husband who had left for Mumbai few days ago, after a fight, to work as a Chef in a small hotel. Roy contacted his Mumbai counterpart DCP (Cyber) Rashmi Karandikar, who started a search mission for the man, with nothing but just his phone number. Karandikar was able to locate and save the man around 1:30 am, after asking his mother to video call him, which didn't connect. His location was traced after he called back his mother through another phone number. "The man then contacted his mother through another number and that's how we traced his location. For an hour, one of my officers kept him engaged on phone call and tried to convince him to not take any an extreme step," the senior Mumbai police officer said. The man claimed he was under huge financial burden and was unable to provide for his family, especially his newly-born child. If you or someone you know wants help for mental well being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602 WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations

Facebook, Delhi police and Mumbai police save a 'suicidal man'

A pair of glasses thought to belong to Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi are set to be auctioned for more than $19,000 in Britain.

The gold-plated spectacles were left hanging out of an auctioneer Andy Stowe's letterbox on Monday morning.

"It's a huge find of great historical importance. The vendor had presumed them to be interesting, but of no value and did tell me to dispose of them "if they're not worth anything"," said auctioneer Andy Stowe of East Bristol Auctions.

"I think he nearly fell off his chair when we presented our valuation. It's a really great auction story - and one that we all dream of," he said.

The glasses, which have already attracted an online bid for 6,000 pounds, are said to have been in the family of the unnamed elderly gentleman vendor in England, who was told by his father that they were a gift to his uncle when he was working for British Petroleum in South Africa between 1910 and 1930.

"The vendor's uncle definitely worked for British Petroleum in South Africa, and I believe Mahatma Gandhi didn't wear glasses until the late 1910s early 1920s," says Stowe in reference to the provenance of the glasses, which are likely to be one of Mahatma Gandhi's earliest pairs during his time in South Africa.

"The story that appears with the lot is exactly what the vendor told us, and exactly what was told to him by his father some 50 years ago," explains Stowe.

The lot, titled "Pair of Mahatma Gandhi's Personal Spectacles", forms part of the auctioneers' Military, History and Classic Cars online sale and will go under the hammer on August 21. It has already attracted much interest, including from India.

"A pair of early 20th century c1920 gold plated circular rimmed spectacles by repute owned and worn by Mahatma Gandhi," notes the auction lot details.

"The spectacles of usual form, with sprung gold plated arms and prescription lenses. Jointed by a gold plated nose bar, the spectacles formed an important and somewhat iconic part of Mahatma Gandhi's overall appearance. It was known that he would often give away his old or unwanted pairs to those in need or those who had helped him. A rare and important pair of spectacles," it notes.

"The uncle working for British Petroleum at the time and was stationed in South Africa, and it can be presumed that these were gifted by way of thanks from Mahatma Gandhi for some good deed. A note from the vendor is included," the auction lot adds.

Mahatma Gandhi employed nonviolent resistance to lead the successful campaign for India's independence from British Rule, and in turn inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world.

(With inputs from PTI)

A pair of glasses thought to belong to Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi are set to be auctioned for more than $19,000 in Britain. The gold-plated spectacles were left hanging out of an auctioneer Andy Stowe's letterbox on Monday morning.

A pair of glasses thought to belong to Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi are set to be auctioned for more than $19,000 in Britain. The gold-plated spectacles were left hanging out of an auctioneer Andy Stowe's letterbox on Monday morning. "It's a huge find of great historical importance. The vendor had presumed them to be interesting, but of no value and did tell me to dispose of them "if they're not worth anything"," said auctioneer Andy Stowe of East Bristol Auctions. "I think he nearly fell off his chair when we presented our valuation. It's a really great auction story - and one that we all dream of," he said. The glasses, which have already attracted an online bid for 6,000 pounds, are said to have been in the family of the unnamed elderly gentleman vendor in England, who was told by his father that they were a gift to his uncle when he was working for British Petroleum in South Africa between 1910 and 1930. "The vendor's uncle definitely worked for British Petroleum in South Africa, and I believe Mahatma Gandhi didn't wear glasses until the late 1910s early 1920s," says Stowe in reference to the provenance of the glasses, which are likely to be one of Mahatma Gandhi's earliest pairs during his time in South Africa. "The story that appears with the lot is exactly what the vendor told us, and exactly what was told to him by his father some 50 years ago," explains Stowe. The lot, titled "Pair of Mahatma Gandhi's Personal Spectacles", forms part of the auctioneers' Military, History and Classic Cars online sale and will go under the hammer on August 21. It has already attracted much interest, including from India. "A pair of early 20th century c1920 gold plated circular rimmed spectacles by repute owned and worn by Mahatma Gandhi," notes the auction lot details. "The spectacles of usual form, with sprung gold plated arms and prescription lenses. Jointed by a gold plated nose bar, the spectacles formed an important and somewhat iconic part of Mahatma Gandhi's overall appearance. It was known that he would often give away his old or unwanted pairs to those in need or those who had helped him. A rare and important pair of spectacles," it notes. "The uncle working for British Petroleum at the time and was stationed in South Africa, and it can be presumed that these were gifted by way of thanks from Mahatma Gandhi for some good deed. A note from the vendor is included," the auction lot adds. Mahatma Gandhi employed nonviolent resistance to lead the successful campaign for India's independence from British Rule, and in turn inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. (With inputs from PTI)

Mahatma Gandhi's glasses left in Bristol auctioneer's letterbox, to be e-auctioned at record price

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