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India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan who is the chief guest in WION's COVID-19 Health Summit being held currently said that the country has responded to the coronavirus challenge with the highest level of commitment.

"The current pandemic has demonstrated the vulnerability of humankind&nbsp;where people&nbsp;are simply trying to stay alive," Dr Harsh Vardhan said during the keynote address at the WION Health Summit.

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Current pandemic has demonstrated the vulnerability of humankind, says India's health minister <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@drharshvardhan</a>, while delivering the keynote address at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONHealthSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONHealthSummit</a> 
 
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India's health minister said "collective action is a critical need" while asserting that the crisis should be looked upon as a "shared responsibility" with countries standing in unison.

Highlighting India's role in medical diplomacy, the health minister said that the "post-COVID-19 world must remember this pandemic", stating that India has supplied hydroxychloroquine to many countries.

"When India decides, it performs, we have unmatched scale and determination," he said.

"We need global leadership and shared responsibilities, our world has changed," India health minister said at WION's Health Summit.

"Given our constraints, India has handled the COVID-19 situation very maturely and we took many bold steps, our disease burden is among the lowest in the world in proportion to our population," Dr Harsh Vardhan stated.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"These are unprecedented trying times and it is my extreme privilege to serve my country at this time," the minister added.

India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan who is the chief guest in WION's COVID-19 Health Summit being held currently said that the country has responded to the coronavirus challenge with the highest level of commitment.

India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan who is the chief guest in WION's COVID-19 Health Summit being held currently said that the country has responded to the coronavirus challenge with the highest level of commitment. "The current pandemic has demonstrated the vulnerability of humankind where people are simply trying to stay alive," Dr Harsh Vardhan said during the keynote address at the WION Health Summit. Current pandemic has demonstrated the vulnerability of humankind, says India's health minister @drharshvardhan, while delivering the keynote address at #WIONHealthSummit Watch LIVE: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J pic.twitter.com/cZMNSfMdic — WION (@WIONews) July 31, 2020 × India's health minister said "collective action is a critical need" while asserting that the crisis should be looked upon as a "shared responsibility" with countries standing in unison. Highlighting India's role in medical diplomacy, the health minister said that the "post-COVID-19 world must remember this pandemic", stating that India has supplied hydroxychloroquine to many countries. "When India decides, it performs, we have unmatched scale and determination," he said. "We need global leadership and shared responsibilities, our world has changed," India health minister said at WION's Health Summit. "Given our constraints, India has handled the COVID-19 situation very maturely and we took many bold steps, our disease burden is among the lowest in the world in proportion to our population," Dr Harsh Vardhan stated. "These are unprecedented trying times and it is my extreme privilege to serve my country at this time," the minister added.

We need global leadership and shared responsibilities, says India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan at WION's COVID-19 Health Summit

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent.&nbsp;

According to the data by the state health ministry, Delhi on Thursday recorded 1,093 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to 134,403 cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-1-million-recovered-in-india-from-coronavirus-health-ministry-317101">Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry</a>

Delhi also confirmed 29 new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 3,936.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-extends-lockdown-in-containment-zones-till-aug-31-317102">West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31</a>

However, the national capital's recovery rate increased to 89 per cent, which is 35 per cent more than the national average of 64.4 per cent.&nbsp;

Delhi, which was witnessing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases after the government started to phase out the nationwide lockdown, on Monday recorded its lowest cases, 619 in two months.

However, it has recorded over 1,000 cases in the last two days, raising concerns that the deadly outbreak might have still not peaked.&nbsp;

With over 1 million tests so far, Delhi also ranks high in terms of testing at state level. Nearly half of 1 millions tests in Delhi are being done in the past one month, reflecting a ramp up in testing.

As many of 10,743 are active COVID-19 cases in Delhi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent.

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent. According to the data by the state health ministry, Delhi on Thursday recorded 1,093 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to 134,403 cases. Also read | Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry Delhi also confirmed 29 new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 3,936. Also read | West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31 However, the national capital's recovery rate increased to 89 per cent, which is 35 per cent more than the national average of 64.4 per cent. Delhi, which was witnessing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases after the government started to phase out the nationwide lockdown, on Monday recorded its lowest cases, 619 in two months. However, it has recorded over 1,000 cases in the last two days, raising concerns that the deadly outbreak might have still not peaked. With over 1 million tests so far, Delhi also ranks high in terms of testing at state level. Nearly half of 1 millions tests in Delhi are being done in the past one month, reflecting a ramp up in testing. As many of 10,743 are active COVID-19 cases in Delhi.

With over a million tests and recovery rate nearly at 90%, Delhi offers India hope

The government of India on Thursday decide to impose restriction on the import of fully built colour television sets, intending to encourage local manufacturing and check imports from China.

Colour television sets worth $781 million were imported in the year ended 31 March, most of which came from Vietnam ($428 million) and China ($292 million).

According to a local statistics in India, in 2018-19, 92 per cent of Indian computers, 82 per cent of TV sets, 80 per cent of optical fibres, 85 per cent motorcycle components are imported from China.

The government has been putting Chinese investments and imports under strict scrutiny amid the border tension along the Line of Actual Control. The anti-China sentiment is growing stronger than ever in the country and there are calls for boycotting Chinese goods and investments after the skirmish in Galwan Valley of Ladakh left 20 Indian soldiers dead.

Since the Galwan Valley clashes, India has cancelled railway and road tenders secured by Chinese companies.

On June 29, govt also banned 59 Chinese apps, including TikTok, on national security grounds.The Centre had said that these apps were 'prejudicial to sovereignty, integrity and security of the country'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India needs to end its dependence on import of solar panels, which are mostly sourced from China.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of India on Thursday decide to impose restriction on the import of fully built colour television sets, intending to encourage local manufacturing and check imports from China.

The government of India on Thursday decide to impose restriction on the import of fully built colour television sets, intending to encourage local manufacturing and check imports from China. Colour television sets worth $781 million were imported in the year ended 31 March, most of which came from Vietnam ($428 million) and China ($292 million). According to a local statistics in India, in 2018-19, 92 per cent of Indian computers, 82 per cent of TV sets, 80 per cent of optical fibres, 85 per cent motorcycle components are imported from China. The government has been putting Chinese investments and imports under strict scrutiny amid the border tension along the Line of Actual Control. The anti-China sentiment is growing stronger than ever in the country and there are calls for boycotting Chinese goods and investments after the skirmish in Galwan Valley of Ladakh left 20 Indian soldiers dead. Since the Galwan Valley clashes, India has cancelled railway and road tenders secured by Chinese companies. On June 29, govt also banned 59 Chinese apps, including TikTok, on national security grounds.The Centre had said that these apps were 'prejudicial to sovereignty, integrity and security of the country'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India needs to end its dependence on import of solar panels, which are mostly sourced from China. (With inputs from agencies)

In a major blow to China, India restricts import of colour television sets

Sun Weidong, the Chinese ambassador to India on Thursday said that Beijing was committed to peace and was not a ‘strategic threat’ to India.

“To move China-India relations forward, I believe that we need to straighten our views on several key issues. First, China is committed to peaceful development, and is not a ‘strategic threat’ to India,” Sun said at a webinar on India-China relations.

Speaking at a webinar organised by the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Delhi on `India-China Relations: The Way Forward', he said both China and India have been deeply embedded in the global industrial and supply chain. 
 
"According to a local statistics in India, in 2018-19, 92 per cent of Indian computers, 82 per cent of TV sets, 80 per cent of optical fibres, 85 per cent motorcycle components are imported from China...Countless examples like these are the reflection of globalisation. And globalisation has deepened the interconnection between countries... Whether you want it or not, the trend is difficult to reverse," Sun said.

"The development of economic and trade cooperation between our two countries is determined by the international division of labour, it is also the natural choice of enterprises and consumers for our two countries under the market-oriented principles. Decoupling of Chinese and Indian economies is against the trend and will only lead to a lose-lose outcome," he said.

The Chinese envoy consistently refused to give the answer about the Chinse causalities in the Galwan clashes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sun Weidong, the Chinese ambassador to India on Thursday said that Beijing was committed to peace and was not a ‘strategic threat’ to India. “To move China-India relations forward, I believe that we need to straighten our views on several key issues.

Sun Weidong, the Chinese ambassador to India on Thursday said that Beijing was committed to peace and was not a ‘strategic threat’ to India. “To move China-India relations forward, I believe that we need to straighten our views on several key issues. First, China is committed to peaceful development, and is not a ‘strategic threat’ to India,” Sun said at a webinar on India-China relations. Speaking at a webinar organised by the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Delhi on `India-China Relations: The Way Forward', he said both China and India have been deeply embedded in the global industrial and supply chain. "According to a local statistics in India, in 2018-19, 92 per cent of Indian computers, 82 per cent of TV sets, 80 per cent of optical fibres, 85 per cent motorcycle components are imported from China...Countless examples like these are the reflection of globalisation. And globalisation has deepened the interconnection between countries... Whether you want it or not, the trend is difficult to reverse," Sun said. "The development of economic and trade cooperation between our two countries is determined by the international division of labour, it is also the natural choice of enterprises and consumers for our two countries under the market-oriented principles. Decoupling of Chinese and Indian economies is against the trend and will only lead to a lose-lose outcome," he said. The Chinese envoy consistently refused to give the answer about the Chinse causalities in the Galwan clashes. (With inputs from agencies)

Weeks after Galwan clashes, envoy Sun Weidong says China not a threat to India

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, the British government has said it considers Indian Punjab as part of India after a so-called referendum being organised outlawed Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).

A British High Commission spokesperson in response to WION question on the referendum being organised by SFJ said, “This is a matter for the government and people of India, not foreign countries or overseas organisations. While we support the right of anyone to voice their opinion, the UK government is not involved in any way with this unofficial and non-binding referendum. "&nbsp;

"We consider the Indian Punjab to be a part of India,” it added.

The so-called referendum is on the formation of "Independent country" in India's Punjab and has found support in Pakistan. Referendum posters have been seen at important Sikh Gurudwaras, something that has been raised with Islamabad by New Delhi.&nbsp;

The development comes&nbsp;days after Canada dismissed support for Khalistani separatism. The Canadian foreign ministry told WION last weekend,"The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India,"&nbsp;

Asked on the so-called referendum being organised by Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.”&nbsp;

The remarks have been welcomes by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria who said, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns."

He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues."

UK, Canada host last Sikh Diaspora. In fact, Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India&nbsp;accounting for around 1.4 per cent&nbsp;of the population of the North American country.

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, the British government has said it considers Indian Punjab as part of India after a so-called referendum being organised outlawed Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, the British government has said it considers Indian Punjab as part of India after a so-called referendum being organised outlawed Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). A British High Commission spokesperson in response to WION question on the referendum being organised by SFJ said, “This is a matter for the government and people of India, not foreign countries or overseas organisations. While we support the right of anyone to voice their opinion, the UK government is not involved in any way with this unofficial and non-binding referendum. " "We consider the Indian Punjab to be a part of India,” it added. The so-called referendum is on the formation of "Independent country" in India's Punjab and has found support in Pakistan. Referendum posters have been seen at important Sikh Gurudwaras, something that has been raised with Islamabad by New Delhi. The development comes days after Canada dismissed support for Khalistani separatism. The Canadian foreign ministry told WION last weekend,"The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India," Asked on the so-called referendum being organised by Khalistani extremist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.” The remarks have been welcomes by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria who said, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns." He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues." UK, Canada host last Sikh Diaspora. In fact, Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India accounting for around 1.4 per cent of the population of the North American country.

Indian Punjab part of India, UK govt on Khalistani extremist group planning referendum

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony. The organisers have described the commemoration as a one-of-a-kind and historic event.

Times Square in New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani on Wednesday said that arrangements were being made to celebrate the historic moment in New York on August 5, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square.

Beginning from 8 AM on August 5 till 10 PM, images of the words 'Jai Shri Ram' in Hindi and English, Lord Ram's portraits and videos, 3D portraits of the temple's design and architecture as well as pictures of the laying of the foundation stone by Modi will be displayed across several billboards, which are among the most striking and popular features of Times Square.

Sewhani told PTI that members of the Indian community will also gather at Times Square on August 5 to mark the celebration and distribute sweets.

Sewhani said that the Times Square commemoration is being made possible with the help and support of the community and sponsors.

Prime Minister Modi had announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust in February. The Trust has invited Modi to lay the foundation stone of the grand Ram Temple.&nbsp;

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony.

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony. The organisers have described the commemoration as a one-of-a-kind and historic event. Times Square in New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani on Wednesday said that arrangements were being made to celebrate the historic moment in New York on August 5, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square. Beginning from 8 AM on August 5 till 10 PM, images of the words 'Jai Shri Ram' in Hindi and English, Lord Ram's portraits and videos, 3D portraits of the temple's design and architecture as well as pictures of the laying of the foundation stone by Modi will be displayed across several billboards, which are among the most striking and popular features of Times Square. Sewhani told PTI that members of the Indian community will also gather at Times Square on August 5 to mark the celebration and distribute sweets. Sewhani said that the Times Square commemoration is being made possible with the help and support of the community and sponsors. Prime Minister Modi had announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust in February. The Trust has invited Modi to lay the foundation stone of the grand Ram Temple.

Lord Ram's images to be displayed at Times Square to celebrate August 5 Ram Temple groundbreaking

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson rode a made-in-India Hero Cycles bike designed in the UK as he launched a new GBP 2-billion cycling and walking drive which is part of the government's anti-obesity strategy to combat COVID-19.

Johnson, 56, a known cycling enthusiast, was seen riding on a Hero Viking Pro bike to Canalside Heritage Centre at Beeston in Nottingham, central England, on Tuesday when he unveiled plans for thousands of miles of new protected bike lanes, cycle training for everyone and bikes available on prescription as part of a new fitness strategy.

"From helping people get fit and healthy and lowering their risk of illness, to improving air quality and cutting congestion, cycling and walking have a huge role to play in tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face," said Johnson, a COVID-19 survivor.

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Cycling and walking have a huge role in tackling some of the health and environmental challenges that we face. 
 
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"But to build a healthier, more active nation, we need the right infrastructure, training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels. That's why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel -- so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling," he said.

The Viking Pro bike used by the prime mister is part of India's Hero Motors Company owned Insync brand, designed in Manchester and made in India by parent company Hero Cycles.

Hero Cycles took over the brands Viking, Riddick and Ryedale and redesigned the range under the brand name Insync.

The company said its Insync range consists of 75 bikes and is the first to be designed at Hero Cycles Global Design Centre (HGD) in Manchester.

"Insync is delighted that the Prime Minister rode one of our Viking bikes after announcing what will be a landmark moment for cycling in the UK," said Pankaj M. Munjal, chairman and managing director of Hero Motors Company, which includes Hero Cycles, Insync, the Viking and Lectro brands.

"We strongly back all the measures announced in the strategy, a move we hope will see many more thousands of people taking to the roads on two wheels. Providing safer cycle routes, funding towards e-bikes and a bike repairs scheme will encourage even more riders to return to cycling or take it up for the first time, building on the stand-out success the industry has seen during the pandemic," he said.

Johnson's new cycling plan is designed as a "comprehensive, long-term vision" to increase active travel, including cycle training for every child and adult who wants it, accessible through schools, local authorities or direct from cycle training schemes.

It comes alongside a new "Better Health" campaign, led by Public Health England (PHE), which calls on people to embrace a healthier lifestyle and to lose weight to cut down the risk from the disease, including the deadly coronavirus.

To encourage cycling as part of daily commute or routine, more cycle racks are set to be installed at transport hubs, town and city centres and public buildings, and funding will go towards new bike hangars and on street storage for people who do not have space to keep a bike at home.

The first round of government-backed "Fix Your Bike" repair vouchers worth GBP 50 each were released from Tuesday night to the public in a pilot scheme to encourage thousands to get back into cycling.

However, that scheme hit a roadblock as the website struggled to deal with the flow of demand for the vouchers. The Department for Transport said the vouchers are being released in batches "to help manage capacity".

"By helping to fix your bike - or get an electrically powered one; by increasing storage space at stations, on trains and buses; and by introducing more ways to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe, we're making it easier than ever to make active travel part of your daily life, and leading England to become a great cycling nation," said UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

A new Active Travel England inspectorate will be responsible for the government's cycling budget and help ensure schemes are compliant with the new higher standards set for infrastructure.

The new standards will make clear that schemes which make pedestrians and cyclists share the same space or which do not make meaningful change to the status quo on the road will not be funded.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson rode a made-in-India Hero Cycles bike designed in the UK as he launched a new GBP 2-billion cycling and walking drive which is part of the government's anti-obesity strategy to combat COVID-19.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson rode a made-in-India Hero Cycles bike designed in the UK as he launched a new GBP 2-billion cycling and walking drive which is part of the government's anti-obesity strategy to combat COVID-19. Johnson, 56, a known cycling enthusiast, was seen riding on a Hero Viking Pro bike to Canalside Heritage Centre at Beeston in Nottingham, central England, on Tuesday when he unveiled plans for thousands of miles of new protected bike lanes, cycle training for everyone and bikes available on prescription as part of a new fitness strategy. "From helping people get fit and healthy and lowering their risk of illness, to improving air quality and cutting congestion, cycling and walking have a huge role to play in tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face," said Johnson, a COVID-19 survivor. Cycling and walking have a huge role in tackling some of the health and environmental challenges that we face. Our £2bn cycling strategy will encourage more cycling with thousands of miles of new bike lanes, and training for those who want to learn. pic.twitter.com/PwYtqXpdd1 — Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) July 28, 2020 × "But to build a healthier, more active nation, we need the right infrastructure, training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels. That's why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel -- so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling," he said. The Viking Pro bike used by the prime mister is part of India's Hero Motors Company owned Insync brand, designed in Manchester and made in India by parent company Hero Cycles. Hero Cycles took over the brands Viking, Riddick and Ryedale and redesigned the range under the brand name Insync. The company said its Insync range consists of 75 bikes and is the first to be designed at Hero Cycles Global Design Centre (HGD) in Manchester. "Insync is delighted that the Prime Minister rode one of our Viking bikes after announcing what will be a landmark moment for cycling in the UK," said Pankaj M. Munjal, chairman and managing director of Hero Motors Company, which includes Hero Cycles, Insync, the Viking and Lectro brands. "We strongly back all the measures announced in the strategy, a move we hope will see many more thousands of people taking to the roads on two wheels. Providing safer cycle routes, funding towards e-bikes and a bike repairs scheme will encourage even more riders to return to cycling or take it up for the first time, building on the stand-out success the industry has seen during the pandemic," he said. Johnson's new cycling plan is designed as a "comprehensive, long-term vision" to increase active travel, including cycle training for every child and adult who wants it, accessible through schools, local authorities or direct from cycle training schemes. It comes alongside a new "Better Health" campaign, led by Public Health England (PHE), which calls on people to embrace a healthier lifestyle and to lose weight to cut down the risk from the disease, including the deadly coronavirus. To encourage cycling as part of daily commute or routine, more cycle racks are set to be installed at transport hubs, town and city centres and public buildings, and funding will go towards new bike hangars and on street storage for people who do not have space to keep a bike at home. The first round of government-backed "Fix Your Bike" repair vouchers worth GBP 50 each were released from Tuesday night to the public in a pilot scheme to encourage thousands to get back into cycling. However, that scheme hit a roadblock as the website struggled to deal with the flow of demand for the vouchers. The Department for Transport said the vouchers are being released in batches "to help manage capacity". "By helping to fix your bike - or get an electrically powered one; by increasing storage space at stations, on trains and buses; and by introducing more ways to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe, we're making it easier than ever to make active travel part of your daily life, and leading England to become a great cycling nation," said UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. A new Active Travel England inspectorate will be responsible for the government's cycling budget and help ensure schemes are compliant with the new higher standards set for infrastructure. The new standards will make clear that schemes which make pedestrians and cyclists share the same space or which do not make meaningful change to the status quo on the road will not be funded.

British PM Boris Johnson rides Made-in-India cycle at launch of UK’s health programme

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31.

Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-1-million-recovered-in-india-from-coronavirus-health-ministry-317101">Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry</a>

There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said.

Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said.

During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said.

Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days.

However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added. 
&nbsp;

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31. Also read | Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said. Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said. During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said. Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days. However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added.

West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31

The number of recovered coronavirus patients crossed the 10-lakh mark on Thursday and is now 1.9 times the total active cases while the fatality rate has dropped to 2.21 per cent, the Union Health Ministry said.

Addressing a press briefing, Officer on Special Duty in the Health Ministry Rajesh Bhushan said 21 states and Union Territories have case positivity rate less than 10 per cent, while in four it is less than five per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/daily-coronavirus-cases-in-india-top-50000-for-first-time-316963">Daily coronavirus cases in India top 50,000 for first time</a>

The COVID-19 positivity rate in Rajasthan is 3.5 per cent, Punjab 3.9 per cent, Madhya Pradesh 4 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir 4.7 per cent, he said.

While 32,553 patients have been discharged in a span of 24 hours across the country, the total recoveries have jumped to 10,20,582 and stand at 64.44 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients, he said.

There are 5,28,242 active cases of coronavirus infection at present in the country and all are under medical supervision, the official said.

"India has achieved the landmark of more than 10 lakh recoveries from COVID-19. This is a testament to the sheer dedication to duty and selfless sacrifice of doctors, nurses and all frontline healthcare workers which has made such a tremendous recovery of COVID-19 patients a reality.This is an occasion when we must stand up and applaud their contribution," Bhushan said as he rose from his chair and clapped for them.

Coordinated implementation of COVID-19 management strategy by the Union, state and UT governments has ensured that the recoveries are continuously on the rise with 1 lakh recoveries at the start of June to more than 10 lakh as on Thursday, he said.

"The successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardized clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in a seamless manner resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries/day for the seventh day in a row," the ministry said in a statement.

"There has been a continued increase in the average daily recoveries from around 15,000 in the first week of July to around 35,000 in the last week," it said.

Bhushan said 16 states and UTs including Delhi (88.99 pc), Assam (76.68 pc), Telangana (74.27 pc), Tamil Nadu (73.85 pc), Gujarat (73.06 pc), Rajasthan (70.76 pc) and Madhya Pradesh (69.47 pc) have recovery rates better than the national average.

The OSD also stressed that effective clinical management has led to a decline in COVID-19 case fatality rate from 3.33 per cent on June 18 to 2.21 per cent on July 30.

"India's case fatality rate is 2.21 pc, as against 4 pc globally, and is amongst the lowest in the world. Case Fatality Rate in Mexico and the UK are five and seven times higher, respectively, as compared to India," Bhushan said.

Also, 24 states and UTs&nbsp;including Assam (0.25 pc), Bihar (0.60 pc), Andhra Pradesh (1.01 pc), Tamil Nadu (1.60 pc), Rajasthan (1.67 pc), Karnataka (1.91 pc), Uttar Pradesh (1.98 pc) have lower case fatality rate than national average, he said.

Bhushan said the 'test, track and treat' strategy has shown good results in terms of managing the situation by curbing the spread of infections and keeping the mortality low.

Guidelines on effective surveillance and tracking of close contacts of positive cases are available.

"We have repeatedly told state governments that in 80 pc of the new positive cases it is possible to track their close contacts within the first 72 hours. Delhi government has shown that it can be done and other states should emulate that," he said.

The combined and focused efforts of Union and state and UT governments have resulted in ramped up testing across the country to ensure early detection and isolation of COVID-19 positive cases, the ministry said in the statement as the number of tests for detection of coronavirus infection in India crossed 18 million.

The average daily tests (on a rolling week on week basis) have increased from 2.4 lakh in the first week of July to more than 4.68 lakh in the last week of July.

The enhanced testing infrastructure has led to a sharp increase in the cumulative testing from 88 lakh total tests till July 1 to nearly 1.82 crore till July 30, he said, adding that the Tests Per Million (TPM) rate has subsequently increased to 13,181.

The testing lab network in the country has been strengthened with 1,321 labs in the country as on date with 907 labs in the government sector and 414 private labs, the official said.

As many as 31 states and UTs are performing more than 140 tests per day per million population.

India saw a record single-day increase of 52,123 infections pushing India's COVID-19 tally to 15,83,792, while the death-toll climbed to 34,968 with 775 people succumbing to the disease in a day, the health ministry's data update&nbsp;at 8 am showed.

The number of recovered coronavirus patients crossed the 10-lakh mark on Thursday and is now 1.9 times the total active cases while the fatality rate has dropped to 2.

The number of recovered coronavirus patients crossed the 10-lakh mark on Thursday and is now 1.9 times the total active cases while the fatality rate has dropped to 2.21 per cent, the Union Health Ministry said. Addressing a press briefing, Officer on Special Duty in the Health Ministry Rajesh Bhushan said 21 states and Union Territories have case positivity rate less than 10 per cent, while in four it is less than five per cent. Also read | Daily coronavirus cases in India top 50,000 for first time The COVID-19 positivity rate in Rajasthan is 3.5 per cent, Punjab 3.9 per cent, Madhya Pradesh 4 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir 4.7 per cent, he said. While 32,553 patients have been discharged in a span of 24 hours across the country, the total recoveries have jumped to 10,20,582 and stand at 64.44 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients, he said. There are 5,28,242 active cases of coronavirus infection at present in the country and all are under medical supervision, the official said. "India has achieved the landmark of more than 10 lakh recoveries from COVID-19. This is a testament to the sheer dedication to duty and selfless sacrifice of doctors, nurses and all frontline healthcare workers which has made such a tremendous recovery of COVID-19 patients a reality.This is an occasion when we must stand up and applaud their contribution," Bhushan said as he rose from his chair and clapped for them. Coordinated implementation of COVID-19 management strategy by the Union, state and UT governments has ensured that the recoveries are continuously on the rise with 1 lakh recoveries at the start of June to more than 10 lakh as on Thursday, he said. "The successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardized clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in a seamless manner resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries/day for the seventh day in a row," the ministry said in a statement. "There has been a continued increase in the average daily recoveries from around 15,000 in the first week of July to around 35,000 in the last week," it said. Bhushan said 16 states and UTs including Delhi (88.99 pc), Assam (76.68 pc), Telangana (74.27 pc), Tamil Nadu (73.85 pc), Gujarat (73.06 pc), Rajasthan (70.76 pc) and Madhya Pradesh (69.47 pc) have recovery rates better than the national average. The OSD also stressed that effective clinical management has led to a decline in COVID-19 case fatality rate from 3.33 per cent on June 18 to 2.21 per cent on July 30. "India's case fatality rate is 2.21 pc, as against 4 pc globally, and is amongst the lowest in the world. Case Fatality Rate in Mexico and the UK are five and seven times higher, respectively, as compared to India," Bhushan said. Also, 24 states and UTs including Assam (0.25 pc), Bihar (0.60 pc), Andhra Pradesh (1.01 pc), Tamil Nadu (1.60 pc), Rajasthan (1.67 pc), Karnataka (1.91 pc), Uttar Pradesh (1.98 pc) have lower case fatality rate than national average, he said. Bhushan said the 'test, track and treat' strategy has shown good results in terms of managing the situation by curbing the spread of infections and keeping the mortality low. Guidelines on effective surveillance and tracking of close contacts of positive cases are available. "We have repeatedly told state governments that in 80 pc of the new positive cases it is possible to track their close contacts within the first 72 hours. Delhi government has shown that it can be done and other states should emulate that," he said. The combined and focused efforts of Union and state and UT governments have resulted in ramped up testing across the country to ensure early detection and isolation of COVID-19 positive cases, the ministry said in the statement as the number of tests for detection of coronavirus infection in India crossed 18 million. The average daily tests (on a rolling week on week basis) have increased from 2.4 lakh in the first week of July to more than 4.68 lakh in the last week of July. The enhanced testing infrastructure has led to a sharp increase in the cumulative testing from 88 lakh total tests till July 1 to nearly 1.82 crore till July 30, he said, adding that the Tests Per Million (TPM) rate has subsequently increased to 13,181. The testing lab network in the country has been strengthened with 1,321 labs in the country as on date with 907 labs in the government sector and 414 private labs, the official said. As many as 31 states and UTs are performing more than 140 tests per day per million population. India saw a record single-day increase of 52,123 infections pushing India's COVID-19 tally to 15,83,792, while the death-toll climbed to 34,968 with 775 people succumbing to the disease in a day, the health ministry's data update at 8 am showed.

Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry

Over 8.78 lakh Indians have returned from abroad after the government launched the "Vande Bharat" evacuation mission on May 7 in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

Under the Phase 4 of the Vande Bharat Mission, a total of 1,083 flights have been scheduled so far, including 849 international flights and 234 feeder flights, MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at a media briefing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-indulges-in-activities-to-deflect-attention-from-cross-border-terrorism-india-317095">Pak indulges in activities to deflect attention from cross-border terrorism: India</a>

"These flights are operated by the Air India Group, IndiGo, SpiceJet and GoAir from 29 countries to 31 airports in India," he said.

"As we begin dovetailing phase 4 into phase 5, (a total of) 8,78,921 Indian nationals have returned as on July 29, 2020. (A total of) 1,07,452 Indians have returned from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Pakistan and Bangladesh by land borders," he said.

The phase 5 of the Vande Bharat Mission will start from August 1, he said.

The MEA spokesperson said a total of 792 flights (692 international and 100 domestic feeders) have been scheduled to repatriate Indians from 23 countries.

The countries include Gulf countries, USA, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Israel, Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan, he added.

"The flights would cater to 21 different airports across India and repatriate an estimated 1,30,000 Indians stranded abroad," he said.

Over 8.78 lakh Indians have returned from abroad after the government launched the "Vande Bharat" evacuation mission on May 7 in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

Over 8.78 lakh Indians have returned from abroad after the government launched the "Vande Bharat" evacuation mission on May 7 in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. Under the Phase 4 of the Vande Bharat Mission, a total of 1,083 flights have been scheduled so far, including 849 international flights and 234 feeder flights, MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at a media briefing. Also read | Pak indulges in activities to deflect attention from cross-border terrorism: India "These flights are operated by the Air India Group, IndiGo, SpiceJet and GoAir from 29 countries to 31 airports in India," he said. "As we begin dovetailing phase 4 into phase 5, (a total of) 8,78,921 Indian nationals have returned as on July 29, 2020. (A total of) 1,07,452 Indians have returned from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Pakistan and Bangladesh by land borders," he said. The phase 5 of the Vande Bharat Mission will start from August 1, he said. The MEA spokesperson said a total of 792 flights (692 international and 100 domestic feeders) have been scheduled to repatriate Indians from 23 countries. The countries include Gulf countries, USA, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Israel, Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan, he added. "The flights would cater to 21 different airports across India and repatriate an estimated 1,30,000 Indians stranded abroad," he said.

Nearly 900,000 Indians have returned from abroad under Vande Bharat Mission: MEA

As Pakistan plans to hold protests to mark one year of the scrapping of Article 370, India on Thursday said the neigbouring country indulges in such activities to divert international attention from its support to cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

August 5 will mark the first anniversary of India's decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution from Jammu and Kashmir and to bifurcate the state into two union territories.

"They indulge in activities to deflect international attention from support to cross border terrorism," external affairs ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at an online media briefing, replying to a question on Pakistan's planned activities to protest India's action of scrapping of Article 370 on its first anniversary next week.

"As far as India is concerned, August 5 will be a historic day for us as on this day, we could remove the hurdles for overall development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," he added.

As per reports, Pakistan is planning to hold protests and reach out to several countries against India's decision to scrap Article 370 that extended special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

As Pakistan plans to hold protests to mark one year of the scrapping of Article 370, India on Thursday said the neigbouring country indulges in such activities to divert international attention from its support to cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

As Pakistan plans to hold protests to mark one year of the scrapping of Article 370, India on Thursday said the neigbouring country indulges in such activities to divert international attention from its support to cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. August 5 will mark the first anniversary of India's decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution from Jammu and Kashmir and to bifurcate the state into two union territories. "They indulge in activities to deflect international attention from support to cross border terrorism," external affairs ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at an online media briefing, replying to a question on Pakistan's planned activities to protest India's action of scrapping of Article 370 on its first anniversary next week. "As far as India is concerned, August 5 will be a historic day for us as on this day, we could remove the hurdles for overall development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," he added. As per reports, Pakistan is planning to hold protests and reach out to several countries against India's decision to scrap Article 370 that extended special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Pak indulges in activities to deflect attention from cross-border terrorism: India

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&amp;A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday.

"All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR.

The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said.

The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware.

"None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said.

The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said. Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday. "All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR. The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said. The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware. "None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said. The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

CBI books 4 Navy officers for generating fake bills to defraud Western Naval Command

A 10th century Shiva stolen statue has been sent to India from the United Kingdom. The statue which was stolen from a Ghateshwar temple, Baroli in Rajasthan will be handed over to Archaeological Survey of India.

Indian high commissioner to UK Gaitri Issar Kumar said, "High Commission of India in London in collaboration with her majesty's government has been able to restore the priceless piece of art, national heritage back to our people".

The stone statue was stolen more than 20 years ago. It was returned to the Indian High Commission in London in 2005 after it emerged that it was smuggled out of India. The statue is four feet tall and depicts Lord Shiva in Chatura Nataraja pose.

The Indian High Commission in a statement said, "We are confident that in coming days, in partnership with the ASI, GOI state and Central authorities as well as UK law enforcement agencies and the independent experts, we will be successful in returning more items of our cultural heritage to India."

The Indian mission in London has been able to bring back stolen Indian art from the UK.

Last Indian Independence day saw two antiques – a 17th Century bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd century limestone carved pillar motif being returned to the Indian High Commissioner by the embassy of USA.&nbsp;

In 2018, the 12th-century bronze statue of Bhagawan Buddha was restituted to the high commissioner by the London Metropolitan Police. 2017 saw the Bramha - Brahmani sculpture stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav being returned to ASI from the UK.

A 10th century Shiva stolen statue has been sent to India from the United Kingdom. The statue which was stolen from a Ghateshwar temple, Baroli in Rajasthan will be handed over to Archaeological Survey of India.

A 10th century Shiva stolen statue has been sent to India from the United Kingdom. The statue which was stolen from a Ghateshwar temple, Baroli in Rajasthan will be handed over to Archaeological Survey of India. Indian high commissioner to UK Gaitri Issar Kumar said, "High Commission of India in London in collaboration with her majesty's government has been able to restore the priceless piece of art, national heritage back to our people". The stone statue was stolen more than 20 years ago. It was returned to the Indian High Commission in London in 2005 after it emerged that it was smuggled out of India. The statue is four feet tall and depicts Lord Shiva in Chatura Nataraja pose. The Indian High Commission in a statement said, "We are confident that in coming days, in partnership with the ASI, GOI state and Central authorities as well as UK law enforcement agencies and the independent experts, we will be successful in returning more items of our cultural heritage to India." The Indian mission in London has been able to bring back stolen Indian art from the UK. Last Indian Independence day saw two antiques – a 17th Century bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd century limestone carved pillar motif being returned to the Indian High Commissioner by the embassy of USA. In 2018, the 12th-century bronze statue of Bhagawan Buddha was restituted to the high commissioner by the London Metropolitan Police. 2017 saw the Bramha - Brahmani sculpture stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav being returned to ASI from the UK.

10th century stolen Shiva statue returns to India from UK

India has firmly told the Chinese side to vacate Finger 5 area in Pangong lake, even as disengagement at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) has reached a critical point.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-situation-de-escalating-at-lac-china-will-never-engage-in-expansionism-chinese-envoy-317002">Also Read:&nbsp;Situation de-escalating at LAC; China will never engage in expansionism: Chinese envoy</a>

While complete disengagement has happened in Galwan Valley and Hot Springs, the process is yet to be completed in Gogra area, Pangong lake for which more talks are expected to happen.

"As per media reports, both sides are building up. When build-up happens to expect Chinese to pull back from Pangong Tso runs contrary", former 14 Corps Commander Lt. General P.J.S. Pannu told WION.

While both sides are in talks for the fifth round of military talks, India has said the disengagement process is yet to be completed.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said,"some progress was made towards" disengagement but the "process has as yet not been completed."

"As we have stated earlier, the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is the basis of our bilateral relationship....we expect that the Chinese side will sincerely work with us for complete disengagement and de-escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas," Srivastava explained.&nbsp;

The Indian statement comes even as the Chinese side on Wednesday claimed that "frontline border forces of the two countries have disengaged in most locations, and the current situation has continuously improved with eased tensions."

So far since the June 15 Galwan incident, three rounds of military talks on June 22, June 30 and July 14, three rounds of diplomatic talks - Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on June 24, 10 &amp; July 24 and one round of SR level talks between NSA Doval Ajit Doval and Chinese FM Wang Yi has taken place.

Meanwhile, the Chinese envoy Sun Weidong was asked on China making new claims at LAC, he said, "Nothern line in Pangong lake and Chinese customary boundary is in accordance with LAC and no case of Chinese expanding its territorial claim".

He declined to answer Chinese casualties during the Galwan Valley incident when asked and said,"understand the goodwill..we don't want to add more tensions and escalate the situation" at LAC." 
&nbsp;

India has firmly told the Chinese side to vacate Finger 5 area in Pangong lake, even as disengagement at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) has reached a critical point.

India has firmly told the Chinese side to vacate Finger 5 area in Pangong lake, even as disengagement at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) has reached a critical point. Also Read: Situation de-escalating at LAC; China will never engage in expansionism: Chinese envoy While complete disengagement has happened in Galwan Valley and Hot Springs, the process is yet to be completed in Gogra area, Pangong lake for which more talks are expected to happen. "As per media reports, both sides are building up. When build-up happens to expect Chinese to pull back from Pangong Tso runs contrary", former 14 Corps Commander Lt. General P.J.S. Pannu told WION. While both sides are in talks for the fifth round of military talks, India has said the disengagement process is yet to be completed. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said,"some progress was made towards" disengagement but the "process has as yet not been completed." "As we have stated earlier, the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is the basis of our bilateral relationship....we expect that the Chinese side will sincerely work with us for complete disengagement and de-escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas," Srivastava explained. The Indian statement comes even as the Chinese side on Wednesday claimed that "frontline border forces of the two countries have disengaged in most locations, and the current situation has continuously improved with eased tensions." So far since the June 15 Galwan incident, three rounds of military talks on June 22, June 30 and July 14, three rounds of diplomatic talks - Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on June 24, 10 & July 24 and one round of SR level talks between NSA Doval Ajit Doval and Chinese FM Wang Yi has taken place. Meanwhile, the Chinese envoy Sun Weidong was asked on China making new claims at LAC, he said, "Nothern line in Pangong lake and Chinese customary boundary is in accordance with LAC and no case of Chinese expanding its territorial claim". He declined to answer Chinese casualties during the Galwan Valley incident when asked and said,"understand the goodwill..we don't want to add more tensions and escalate the situation" at LAC."

Vacate Finger 5 area in Pangong lake: India tells China firmly

The Rafale fighter jet is India’s biggest military acquisition in years. The first batch of five fighters arrived earlier today in India.

The supersonic fighters touched down at the Ambala airspace in Haryana. The five planes will take the IAF’s squadron strength to 31. The Rafale is a game changing acquisition for the Indian Air Force as it can carry out a variety of missions.

The Rafale can be used for ground and sea attacks and can undertake electronic warfare, air defence, ground support and in-depth strikes. The biggest asset of the Rafale is its weapon carrying capability. It has the meteor air-to-air missile. It can shoot down an enemy aircraft even if its more than 100 kilometers away.

The Rafale will also be equipped with the scalp long range missile which can hit a target that’s more than 300 kilometers away. The Rafale is the most potent aircraft in South Asia. It can detect threats well in advance and neutralise them.

The fighter jet is much more capable than Pakistan’s F-16 aircraft or China’s J-20 - an aircraft that is yet to see combat. The Rafale’s acqusition is a significant boost for India’s defences against China.

Recently, the Indian Navy conducted drills off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar.&nbsp;Now, the Indian Navy is stepping up its surveillance. India has reportedly reached out to its neighbours in the Indian Ocean region. Indian officials have spoken to the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar in an attempt to stop China from expanding its footprint.

After the bloody clash in Ladakh, China’s claims cannot be taken at face value. Indian officials are yet to confirm if the disengagement is complete or not until then&nbsp;India is matching Chinese aggression.

The Rafale fighter jet is India’s biggest military acquisition in years. The first batch of five fighters arrived earlier today in India. The supersonic fighters touched down at the Ambala airspace in Haryana.

The Rafale fighter jet is India’s biggest military acquisition in years. The first batch of five fighters arrived earlier today in India. The supersonic fighters touched down at the Ambala airspace in Haryana. The five planes will take the IAF’s squadron strength to 31. The Rafale is a game changing acquisition for the Indian Air Force as it can carry out a variety of missions. The Rafale can be used for ground and sea attacks and can undertake electronic warfare, air defence, ground support and in-depth strikes. The biggest asset of the Rafale is its weapon carrying capability. It has the meteor air-to-air missile. It can shoot down an enemy aircraft even if its more than 100 kilometers away. The Rafale will also be equipped with the scalp long range missile which can hit a target that’s more than 300 kilometers away. The Rafale is the most potent aircraft in South Asia. It can detect threats well in advance and neutralise them. The fighter jet is much more capable than Pakistan’s F-16 aircraft or China’s J-20 - an aircraft that is yet to see combat. The Rafale’s acqusition is a significant boost for India’s defences against China. Recently, the Indian Navy conducted drills off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar. Now, the Indian Navy is stepping up its surveillance. India has reportedly reached out to its neighbours in the Indian Ocean region. Indian officials have spoken to the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar in an attempt to stop China from expanding its footprint. After the bloody clash in Ladakh, China’s claims cannot be taken at face value. Indian officials are yet to confirm if the disengagement is complete or not until then India is matching Chinese aggression.

Why India's Rafale fighter jets are superior to  Pakistan’s F-16, China's J-20

The Indian Air Force officer who is a native of Anantnag in Kashmir has played a key role in ensuring the delivery of Rafale jets to the country.

Meet Air Commodore Hilal Ahmad Rather, IAF officer who played a key role in Rafale delivery

Union HRD minister Ramesh Pokhriyal, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, Secretary Higher education Amit Khare and Secretary School education Anita Karwal held a press conference at 4 pm to talk about NEP, which was set up in 1968 and was last updated in 1992.

India gets new education policy after 34 years | Explainer | MHRD

The Union Cabinet approved the National Education Policy 2020 on Wednesday. Below are some of the key features of the new policy:

* This is the first education policy of the 21st century and replaces the thirty-four-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986.

* The new policy aims for universalisation of education from pre-school to secondary level with 100 per cent Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in school education by 2030 and aims to raise GER in higher education to 50 per cent by 2025.

*To enroll for a Ph.D, a Master’s degree or a 4-year Bachelor’s degree with Research shall be required. The M.Phil programme shall be discontinued.

* NEP 2020 will bring two crore out of school children back into the main stream.

* The 10+2 structure of school curricula is to be replaced by a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure corresponding to ages 3-8, 8-11, 11-14, and 14-18 years respectively. It will include 12 years of schooling and three years of Anganwadi and pre-schooling.

* NCERT will develop a National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education (NCPFECCE) for children up to the age of eight.

* NEP 2020 calls for setting up of a National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy by the Education Ministry. States will prepare an implementation plan for attaining universal foundational literacy and numeracy in all primary schools for all learners by grade 3 by 2025.

* A National Book Promotion Policy is to be formulated.

* All students will take school examinations in Grades 3, 5, and 8 which will be conducted by the appropriate authority. Board exams for Grades 10 and 12 will be continued, but redesigned with holistic development as the aim.

* A new National Assessment Centre, PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development), will be set up as a standard-setting body.

* NEP emphasises on setting up of Gender Inclusion Fund and also Special Education Zones for disadvantaged regions and groups.

* Every state/district will be encouraged to establish ''Bal Bhavans'' as a special daytime boarding school, to participate in art-related, career-related, and play-related activities. Free school infrastructure can be used as Samajik Chetna Kendras.

* A common National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) will be developed by the National Council for Teacher Education by 2022, in consultation with NCERT, SCERTs, teachers and expert organizations from across levels and regions.

* States/UTs will set up independent State School Standards Authority (SSSA). The SCERT will develop a School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Framework (SQAAF) through consultations with all stakeholders.

* NEP 2020 aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education including vocational education from 26.3 per cent in 2018 to 50 per cent by 2035 and aims to add 3.5 crore new seats to higher education institutions.

* The policy envisages broad-based, multi-disciplinary, holistic Under Graduate education with flexible curricula, creative combinations of subjects, integration of vocational education and multiple entry and exit points with appropriate certification.

* An Academic Bank of Credit is to be established for digitally storing academic credits earned from different HEIs so that these can be transferred and counted towards final degree earned.

* Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs), at par with IITs, IIMs, to be set up as models of best multidisciplinary education of global standards in the country.

* The National Research Foundation will be created as an apex body for fostering a strong research culture and building research capacity across higher education.

* Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) will be set up as a single overarching umbrella body for entire higher education, excluding medical and legal education.

* Public and private higher education institutions will be governed by the same set of norms for regulation, accreditation and academic standards.

* Affiliation of colleges is to be phased out in 15 years and a stage-wise mechanism is to be established for granting graded autonomy to colleges.

* A new and comprehensive National Curriculum Framework for Teacher Education, NCFTE 2021, will be formulated by the NCTE in consultation with NCERT.

* By 2030, the minimum degree qualification for teaching will be a 4-year integrated B.Ed. degree.

* Stringent action will be taken against substandard stand-alone Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs).

* A National Mission for Mentoring will be established, with a large pool of outstanding senior/retired faculty who would be willing to provide short and long-term mentoring/professional support to university/college teachers.

* The National Scholarship Portal will be expanded to track the progress of students receiving scholarships.

* Private HEIs will be encouraged to offer larger numbers of free ships and scholarships to their students.

* Measures such as online courses and digital repositories, funding for research, improved student services, credit-based recognition of MOOCs, etc., will be taken to ensure distance learning is at par with the highest quality in-class programmes.

* A comprehensive set of recommendations for promoting online education consequent to the recent rise in epidemics and pandemics in order to ensure preparedness with alternative modes of quality education whenever and wherever traditional modes of education are not possible, has been covered.

* A dedicated unit for the purpose of orchestrating the building of digital infrastructure, digital content and capacity building will be created in the HRD ministry to look after the e-education needs of both school and higher education.

* An autonomous body, the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), will be created to provide a platform for the free exchange of ideas on the use of technology to enhance learning, assessment, planning, administration.

* NEP recommends setting an Indian Institute of Translation and Interpretation (IITI), National Institute (or Institutes) for Pali, Persian and Prakrit, strengthening of Sanskrit and all language departments in HEIs, &nbsp;and use mother tongue/local language as a medium of instruction in more HEI &nbsp;programmes.

* Internationalisation of education will be facilitated through both institutional collaborations, and student and faculty mobility and allowing entry of top world ranked universities to open campuses in India.

* Stand-alone technical universities, health science universities, legal and agricultural universities etc will aim to become multi-disciplinary institutions.

* Policy aims to achieve 100% youth and adult literacy.

* The Centre and the States will work together to increase the public investment in Education sector to reach 6 per cent of GDP at the earliest.

The Union Cabinet approved the National Education Policy 2020 on Wednesday. Below are some of the key features of the new policy: * This is the first education policy of the 21st century and replaces the thirty-four-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986.

The Union Cabinet approved the National Education Policy 2020 on Wednesday. Below are some of the key features of the new policy: * This is the first education policy of the 21st century and replaces the thirty-four-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986. * The new policy aims for universalisation of education from pre-school to secondary level with 100 per cent Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in school education by 2030 and aims to raise GER in higher education to 50 per cent by 2025. *To enroll for a Ph.D, a Master’s degree or a 4-year Bachelor’s degree with Research shall be required. The M.Phil programme shall be discontinued. * NEP 2020 will bring two crore out of school children back into the main stream. * The 10+2 structure of school curricula is to be replaced by a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure corresponding to ages 3-8, 8-11, 11-14, and 14-18 years respectively. It will include 12 years of schooling and three years of Anganwadi and pre-schooling. * NCERT will develop a National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education (NCPFECCE) for children up to the age of eight. * NEP 2020 calls for setting up of a National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy by the Education Ministry. States will prepare an implementation plan for attaining universal foundational literacy and numeracy in all primary schools for all learners by grade 3 by 2025. * A National Book Promotion Policy is to be formulated. * All students will take school examinations in Grades 3, 5, and 8 which will be conducted by the appropriate authority. Board exams for Grades 10 and 12 will be continued, but redesigned with holistic development as the aim. * A new National Assessment Centre, PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development), will be set up as a standard-setting body. * NEP emphasises on setting up of Gender Inclusion Fund and also Special Education Zones for disadvantaged regions and groups. * Every state/district will be encouraged to establish ''Bal Bhavans'' as a special daytime boarding school, to participate in art-related, career-related, and play-related activities. Free school infrastructure can be used as Samajik Chetna Kendras. * A common National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) will be developed by the National Council for Teacher Education by 2022, in consultation with NCERT, SCERTs, teachers and expert organizations from across levels and regions. * States/UTs will set up independent State School Standards Authority (SSSA). The SCERT will develop a School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Framework (SQAAF) through consultations with all stakeholders. * NEP 2020 aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education including vocational education from 26.3 per cent in 2018 to 50 per cent by 2035 and aims to add 3.5 crore new seats to higher education institutions. * The policy envisages broad-based, multi-disciplinary, holistic Under Graduate education with flexible curricula, creative combinations of subjects, integration of vocational education and multiple entry and exit points with appropriate certification. * An Academic Bank of Credit is to be established for digitally storing academic credits earned from different HEIs so that these can be transferred and counted towards final degree earned. * Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs), at par with IITs, IIMs, to be set up as models of best multidisciplinary education of global standards in the country. * The National Research Foundation will be created as an apex body for fostering a strong research culture and building research capacity across higher education. * Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) will be set up as a single overarching umbrella body for entire higher education, excluding medical and legal education. * Public and private higher education institutions will be governed by the same set of norms for regulation, accreditation and academic standards. * Affiliation of colleges is to be phased out in 15 years and a stage-wise mechanism is to be established for granting graded autonomy to colleges. * A new and comprehensive National Curriculum Framework for Teacher Education, NCFTE 2021, will be formulated by the NCTE in consultation with NCERT. * By 2030, the minimum degree qualification for teaching will be a 4-year integrated B.Ed. degree. * Stringent action will be taken against substandard stand-alone Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs). * A National Mission for Mentoring will be established, with a large pool of outstanding senior/retired faculty who would be willing to provide short and long-term mentoring/professional support to university/college teachers. * The National Scholarship Portal will be expanded to track the progress of students receiving scholarships. * Private HEIs will be encouraged to offer larger numbers of free ships and scholarships to their students. * Measures such as online courses and digital repositories, funding for research, improved student services, credit-based recognition of MOOCs, etc., will be taken to ensure distance learning is at par with the highest quality in-class programmes. * A comprehensive set of recommendations for promoting online education consequent to the recent rise in epidemics and pandemics in order to ensure preparedness with alternative modes of quality education whenever and wherever traditional modes of education are not possible, has been covered. * A dedicated unit for the purpose of orchestrating the building of digital infrastructure, digital content and capacity building will be created in the HRD ministry to look after the e-education needs of both school and higher education. * An autonomous body, the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), will be created to provide a platform for the free exchange of ideas on the use of technology to enhance learning, assessment, planning, administration. * NEP recommends setting an Indian Institute of Translation and Interpretation (IITI), National Institute (or Institutes) for Pali, Persian and Prakrit, strengthening of Sanskrit and all language departments in HEIs, and use mother tongue/local language as a medium of instruction in more HEI programmes. * Internationalisation of education will be facilitated through both institutional collaborations, and student and faculty mobility and allowing entry of top world ranked universities to open campuses in India. * Stand-alone technical universities, health science universities, legal and agricultural universities etc will aim to become multi-disciplinary institutions. * Policy aims to achieve 100% youth and adult literacy. * The Centre and the States will work together to increase the public investment in Education sector to reach 6 per cent of GDP at the earliest.

From 4 years B.Ed. degree to removing M.Phil: Highlights of National Education Policy 2020

An Indian businessman who recovered from coronavirus has converted his office into an 85-bed facility to provide free treatment for the poor.

The coronavirus epidemic is still raging in the world's second-most populous nation, with the number of infections passing 1.5 million on Wednesday, and almost 35,000 deaths.

With public hospitals struggling to cope, Kadar Shaikh spent 20 days in a private clinic last month in the western city of Surat -- and was horrified by the bill.

"The cost of treatment at a private hospital was huge. How could poor people afford such treatment?" property developer Shaikh told AFP.

"So I decided to do something and contribute in the fight against the deadly virus."

Once back on his feet, Shaikh secured approval from local authorities to convert his 30,000-square-feet (2,800-square-metre) office premises.

The government provides and pays for the staff, medical equipment and medicine, while Shaikh bought the beds and bears the cost of bed linen and electricity.

Anyone can be admitted, he said, regardless of "caste, creed or religion".

An Indian businessman who recovered from coronavirus has converted his office into an 85-bed facility to provide free treatment for the poor. The coronavirus epidemic is still raging in the world's second-most populous nation, with the number of infections passing 1.

An Indian businessman who recovered from coronavirus has converted his office into an 85-bed facility to provide free treatment for the poor. The coronavirus epidemic is still raging in the world's second-most populous nation, with the number of infections passing 1.5 million on Wednesday, and almost 35,000 deaths. With public hospitals struggling to cope, Kadar Shaikh spent 20 days in a private clinic last month in the western city of Surat -- and was horrified by the bill. "The cost of treatment at a private hospital was huge. How could poor people afford such treatment?" property developer Shaikh told AFP. "So I decided to do something and contribute in the fight against the deadly virus." Once back on his feet, Shaikh secured approval from local authorities to convert his 30,000-square-feet (2,800-square-metre) office premises. The government provides and pays for the staff, medical equipment and medicine, while Shaikh bought the beds and bears the cost of bed linen and electricity. Anyone can be admitted, he said, regardless of "caste, creed or religion".

Indian businessman converts office into coronavirus ward

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations."

Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships.&nbsp;It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. "

Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-47-chinese-apps-that-were-clones-of-the-59-apps-banned-in-june-316190">Also read:&nbsp;India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June</a>

He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/names-of-soldiers-killed-in-galwan-clash-to-be-inscribed-on-national-war-memorial-316987">Also read:&nbsp;Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial</a>

Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products".

He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities."

He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions.

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations." Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships. It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. " Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices. Also read: India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation." Also read: Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products". He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities." He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In veiled message on China, PM Modi says New Delhi's development partnership does not come with conditions

India on Wednesday approved a plan to allow foreign universities to open campuses in the country as part of efforts to boost education to strengthen the economy as it struggles with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Politicians affiliated with the left as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party have opposed several attempts by previous administrations to open up the sector to overseas institutions.

But many government officials have been pushing the move as more than 750,000 Indian students study abroad, spending billions of dollars outside the country every year.

The government will allow “entry of top world ranked universities to open campuses in our country”, a government statement said after a cabinet meeting chaired by Modi.

Critics said it remained to be seen whether top-rated universities would open campuses, considering a regulatory framework that will also cap fees charged by educational institutions.

The change comes as part of a policy to increase public spending on education to nearly 6% of gross domestic product from around 4% now.

Education is among sectors Modi is aiming to reform in an effort to bolster the economy in the wake of the pandemic.

The government is seeking to expand access to higher education to 50% of high school students by 2035, aiming to add about 35 million new places for students, and achieve universal adult literacy before that date, Higher Education Secretary Amit Khare told reporters.

The reforms would also include directives such as making school education compulsory from the age of three and encouraging the study of Sanskrit and other Indian languages as well as the use of technology.

Nearly half of the 248 million Indian students studied in private schools in 2019, according to government estimates, as teaching standards in the majority of state-run schools remain low amid a shortage of teachers, poor regulation and inadequate funding.

India on Wednesday approved a plan to allow foreign universities to open campuses in the country as part of efforts to boost education to strengthen the economy as it struggles with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

India on Wednesday approved a plan to allow foreign universities to open campuses in the country as part of efforts to boost education to strengthen the economy as it struggles with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Politicians affiliated with the left as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party have opposed several attempts by previous administrations to open up the sector to overseas institutions. But many government officials have been pushing the move as more than 750,000 Indian students study abroad, spending billions of dollars outside the country every year. The government will allow “entry of top world ranked universities to open campuses in our country”, a government statement said after a cabinet meeting chaired by Modi. Critics said it remained to be seen whether top-rated universities would open campuses, considering a regulatory framework that will also cap fees charged by educational institutions. The change comes as part of a policy to increase public spending on education to nearly 6% of gross domestic product from around 4% now. Education is among sectors Modi is aiming to reform in an effort to bolster the economy in the wake of the pandemic. The government is seeking to expand access to higher education to 50% of high school students by 2035, aiming to add about 35 million new places for students, and achieve universal adult literacy before that date, Higher Education Secretary Amit Khare told reporters. The reforms would also include directives such as making school education compulsory from the age of three and encouraging the study of Sanskrit and other Indian languages as well as the use of technology. Nearly half of the 248 million Indian students studied in private schools in 2019, according to government estimates, as teaching standards in the majority of state-run schools remain low amid a shortage of teachers, poor regulation and inadequate funding.

National Education Policy 2020: India opens door for foreign universities

A key Congressional committee on Wednesday passed a bill, written by civil rights icon John Lewis, to promote the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

Cosponsored by Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera, the Gandhi-King Exchange Act was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The bill would establish an exchange initiative between the United States and India to study the work and legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

"John Lewis was a civil rights hero not only in the United States, but across the globe. John fought for human rights, equality and justice, and democracy for all. Just like Gandhi and Dr. King, Congressman Lewis shaped the world through his actions of nonviolence, and his life story will reverberate throughout history," Bera said.

The Act authorises the US State Department, in cooperation with the Indian government, to establish an annual educational forum for scholars from both countries that focuses on the legacies of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

It also seeks to develop a professional development training initiative on conflict resolution based on the principles of nonviolence; and establish a foundation to address social, environmental, and health priorities in India.

In 2009, Congressman John Lewis led a Congressional delegation visit to India to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr King's pilgrimage to India.

Inspired by his visit, Congressman Lewis created the Gandhi-King Exchange Act to seek to apply the philosophies of Gandhi and Dr King Jr to conflict resolution efforts and current policy challenges.

"The Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative Act is a fitting tribute to his incredible legacy," said Bera, who is the longest serving Indian-American member of the Congress in history.

"As the world's oldest and largest democracies, the US and India have long traditions of upholding these shared values championed by figures like Gandhi, King, and Congressman Lewis. But they are increasingly under threat in both countries," he said.

"This legislation will help ensure those values endure and remind us that by holding true to them, we embody and live up to the best of our two nations," Bera said.

Noting that Gandhi and Dr King Jr were dedicated leaders fighting for social justice and social change, peace, and civil rights in their respective communities, and countries and in the world, the Bill said the use of non-violent civil disobedience is a shared tactic that has played a key role in defeating social injustice in India, the US, and in other parts of the world.

The bill, among other things, asks the administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish in cooperation with the Indian government the United States-India Gandhi-King Development Foundation. 
The foundation shall identify development priorities and administer and oversee competitively awarded grants to private nongovernmental entities to address such priorities in India, including health initiatives addressing tuberculosis (TB), water, sanitation, and health (WASH), and pollution and related health impacts (PHI); pollution and climate change; education; and empowerment of women.

It asks the president and chief executive officer of the United States Institute of Peace to develop a training initiative known as the Gandhi-King Global Academy. It will target representatives from governments, nongovernmental organizations, civic organizations, and educational, cultural, women's, civil, and human rights groups, including religious and ethnic minorities and marginalized communities in countries with ongoing political, social, ethnic, or violent conflict.

The academy would include a specific focus on the success of nonviolent movements, inclusion, and representation in conflict resolution; develop a curriculum on conflict resolution tools based on the principles of nonviolence; and make the curriculum publicly available online, in person, and through a variety of media.

Asserting that Dr King Jr's effective use of Gandhi's principles was instrumental to the American civil rights movement, the bill says that there is a long history of civil and social rights movements in the United States and in India.

"As the relationship between the United States and India evolves, a binational foundation through which the governments of each country can work together and catalyze private investment toward development objectives would provide an ongoing, productive institution and symbol of the friendship and common ideals of the respective governments and their peoples," it said.

John Lewis died on July 17 at the age of 80 and was a contemporary of fellow civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr.&nbsp;

A key Congressional committee on Wednesday passed a bill, written by civil rights icon John Lewis, to promote the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

A key Congressional committee on Wednesday passed a bill, written by civil rights icon John Lewis, to promote the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Cosponsored by Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera, the Gandhi-King Exchange Act was passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The bill would establish an exchange initiative between the United States and India to study the work and legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. "John Lewis was a civil rights hero not only in the United States, but across the globe. John fought for human rights, equality and justice, and democracy for all. Just like Gandhi and Dr. King, Congressman Lewis shaped the world through his actions of nonviolence, and his life story will reverberate throughout history," Bera said. The Act authorises the US State Department, in cooperation with the Indian government, to establish an annual educational forum for scholars from both countries that focuses on the legacies of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. It also seeks to develop a professional development training initiative on conflict resolution based on the principles of nonviolence; and establish a foundation to address social, environmental, and health priorities in India. In 2009, Congressman John Lewis led a Congressional delegation visit to India to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr King's pilgrimage to India. Inspired by his visit, Congressman Lewis created the Gandhi-King Exchange Act to seek to apply the philosophies of Gandhi and Dr King Jr to conflict resolution efforts and current policy challenges. "The Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative Act is a fitting tribute to his incredible legacy," said Bera, who is the longest serving Indian-American member of the Congress in history. "As the world's oldest and largest democracies, the US and India have long traditions of upholding these shared values championed by figures like Gandhi, King, and Congressman Lewis. But they are increasingly under threat in both countries," he said. "This legislation will help ensure those values endure and remind us that by holding true to them, we embody and live up to the best of our two nations," Bera said. Noting that Gandhi and Dr King Jr were dedicated leaders fighting for social justice and social change, peace, and civil rights in their respective communities, and countries and in the world, the Bill said the use of non-violent civil disobedience is a shared tactic that has played a key role in defeating social injustice in India, the US, and in other parts of the world. The bill, among other things, asks the administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish in cooperation with the Indian government the United States-India Gandhi-King Development Foundation. The foundation shall identify development priorities and administer and oversee competitively awarded grants to private nongovernmental entities to address such priorities in India, including health initiatives addressing tuberculosis (TB), water, sanitation, and health (WASH), and pollution and related health impacts (PHI); pollution and climate change; education; and empowerment of women. It asks the president and chief executive officer of the United States Institute of Peace to develop a training initiative known as the Gandhi-King Global Academy. It will target representatives from governments, nongovernmental organizations, civic organizations, and educational, cultural, women's, civil, and human rights groups, including religious and ethnic minorities and marginalized communities in countries with ongoing political, social, ethnic, or violent conflict. The academy would include a specific focus on the success of nonviolent movements, inclusion, and representation in conflict resolution; develop a curriculum on conflict resolution tools based on the principles of nonviolence; and make the curriculum publicly available online, in person, and through a variety of media. Asserting that Dr King Jr's effective use of Gandhi's principles was instrumental to the American civil rights movement, the bill says that there is a long history of civil and social rights movements in the United States and in India. "As the relationship between the United States and India evolves, a binational foundation through which the governments of each country can work together and catalyze private investment toward development objectives would provide an ongoing, productive institution and symbol of the friendship and common ideals of the respective governments and their peoples," it said. John Lewis died on July 17 at the age of 80 and was a contemporary of fellow civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr.

US Congressional committee passes bill to promote Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr's legacies

An ancient and priceless statue of Lord Shiva, stolen from a temple in Rajasthan and smuggled to the UK, is set to be returned to its rightful place in India.

The 4-foot tall statue created in the late 9th Century "Prathihara" style of Rajasthan is said to have been stolen from the Gateshwar temple in Baroli, Rajasthan in 1998.

It later emerged that the statue had been brought to the United Kingdom where it was discovered amongst the collection of a wealthy private collector.

Following the combined efforts of the British authorities and Indian officials, the statue was voluntarily handed over by the collector to the Indian High Commission in London in 2005.

Since then, the statue of Shiva - striking a "chatura" pose with Jatamakuta and Trinetra - has taken pride of place at the historic and grand India House in the heart of London.

In 2017, officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) were invited to inspect the statue, confirming that it was indeed the statue stolen from the temple in Baroli.

The statue is now all set to be returned to its original home in Rajasthan.

It’s the latest in a string of priceless artefacts and antiquities taken from India and which have been tracked and traced in operations carried out by the Indian government and its counterparts in the UK, USA, Australia, France and Germany.

Among the prominent examples include the famous Brahma-Brahmani sculpture which was stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav and returned to the ASI in 2017.

The following year a 12th Century Bronze statue of Bhagawan Buddha was restituted to the High Commissioner by the London Metropolitan Police. This was handed over to the Minister of State for Culture by the Finance Minister in 2019.

On August 15, 2019, another two antiques - a 17th Century Bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd-century limestone Carved Pillar motif was returned to the High Commissioner by the Embassy of the United States.

An ancient and priceless statue of Lord Shiva, stolen from a temple in Rajasthan and smuggled to the UK, is set to be returned to its rightful place in India. The 4-foot tall statue created in the late 9th Century "Prathihara" style of Rajasthan is said to have been stolen from the Gateshwar temple in Baroli, Rajasthan in 1998.

An ancient and priceless statue of Lord Shiva, stolen from a temple in Rajasthan and smuggled to the UK, is set to be returned to its rightful place in India. The 4-foot tall statue created in the late 9th Century "Prathihara" style of Rajasthan is said to have been stolen from the Gateshwar temple in Baroli, Rajasthan in 1998. It later emerged that the statue had been brought to the United Kingdom where it was discovered amongst the collection of a wealthy private collector. Following the combined efforts of the British authorities and Indian officials, the statue was voluntarily handed over by the collector to the Indian High Commission in London in 2005. Since then, the statue of Shiva - striking a "chatura" pose with Jatamakuta and Trinetra - has taken pride of place at the historic and grand India House in the heart of London. In 2017, officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) were invited to inspect the statue, confirming that it was indeed the statue stolen from the temple in Baroli. The statue is now all set to be returned to its original home in Rajasthan. It’s the latest in a string of priceless artefacts and antiquities taken from India and which have been tracked and traced in operations carried out by the Indian government and its counterparts in the UK, USA, Australia, France and Germany. Among the prominent examples include the famous Brahma-Brahmani sculpture which was stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav and returned to the ASI in 2017. The following year a 12th Century Bronze statue of Bhagawan Buddha was restituted to the High Commissioner by the London Metropolitan Police. This was handed over to the Minister of State for Culture by the Finance Minister in 2019. On August 15, 2019, another two antiques - a 17th Century Bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd-century limestone Carved Pillar motif was returned to the High Commissioner by the Embassy of the United States.

Britain to return Lord Shiva's statue stolen from India

In Srinagar, an ambulance driver is being hailed a coronavirus warrior for his selfless service in not only ferrying thousands of COVID-19 patients to hospitals but also for assisting in funeral rites of the dead COVID-19 patients. Watch report.

Srinagar's COVID-19 warrior: An ambulance driver who also helps with funeral rites

More than 600kgs silver, 8300 books and more: J Jayalalithaa's movable items move to her memorial

Chinese envoy to India Sun Weidong said today that troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) have disengaged at my places and the situation is "de-escalating and the temperature is coming down".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-unprecedented-meeting-with-indias-neighbours-316584/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian and Chinese troops have been taking part in the disengagement process over the past one month after the clash at Galwan Valley led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge details.

The Chinese envoy said China is not a strategic threat to India while adding that "China, India need peace rather than confrontation and win-win cooperation rather than zero-sum game."

"Ties should move forward not backward," the envoy asserted.

Sun Weidong&nbsp;stated that India and China have always pursued good neighbourly relations and said that "China will never seek hegemony".

"Galwan was an unfortunate incident and after that both sides held talks," he added. The envoy said that China and India have "never stopped moving forward" and properly handle differences through consultations.

"Dragon and elephant tango will serve lasting peace in Asia and the world at large," Weidong&nbsp;said, adding,"China and India are each other's opportunities."

"China has never claimed territory, the label of expansionist can't be put on China," he said.

"China will never engage in expansionism, right and wrong of Galwan is known. The legitimate right of every country is to safeguard its territorial integrity. China has never been aggressive."

Chinese envoy to India Sun Weidong said today that troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) have disengaged at my places and the situation is "de-escalating and the temperature is coming down".

Chinese envoy to India Sun Weidong said today that troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) have disengaged at my places and the situation is "de-escalating and the temperature is coming down". Watch: Indian and Chinese troops have been taking part in the disengagement process over the past one month after the clash at Galwan Valley led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge details. The Chinese envoy said China is not a strategic threat to India while adding that "China, India need peace rather than confrontation and win-win cooperation rather than zero-sum game." "Ties should move forward not backward," the envoy asserted. Sun Weidong stated that India and China have always pursued good neighbourly relations and said that "China will never seek hegemony". "Galwan was an unfortunate incident and after that both sides held talks," he added. The envoy said that China and India have "never stopped moving forward" and properly handle differences through consultations. "Dragon and elephant tango will serve lasting peace in Asia and the world at large," Weidong said, adding,"China and India are each other's opportunities." "China has never claimed territory, the label of expansionist can't be put on China," he said. "China will never engage in expansionism, right and wrong of Galwan is known. The legitimate right of every country is to safeguard its territorial integrity. China has never been aggressive."

India-China standoff: Situation de-escalating at LAC; China will never engage in expansionism: Chinese envoy

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