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The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has started providing free testing and treatment to patients in its COVID-19 Health Centre (CHC), announced the Shripad Yesso Naik, Union AYUSH Minister.

Naik visited the CHC on July 28 to review the arrangements at the centre for treatment of COVID-19 patients. During the visit, the minister announced that CHC will provide free of cost testing and treatment facilities to all the patients.

He also inaugurated the Intensive Care Unit of CHC, which has been equipped with ventilator facility and all other standard provisions of ICU.

The AIIA has also been designated as COVID-19 testing centre (RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing) by the Delhi government. A COVID Call Centre has been established at AIIA for handling queries related to COVID-19 being raised by the general public telephonically, an official statement by the AYUSH Ministry said.

The minister praised prophylactic program 'AYURAKSHA' going on for 80,000 Delhi Police personnel under the directions of the ministry.

"Delhi Police, being the frontline warriors of COVID-19, are being given AYURAKSHA kit for boosting the immunity and increasing quality of life against COVID-19. The AYURAKSHA kit contains Sanshamani Vati (prepared from Giloy), AYUSH Kadha and Anu Taila for nasal application," the official release said.

"Till date 158,454 Ayuraksha kits have been distributed in two phases with an overall compliance of more than 90 per cent. Feedback of the Delhi police personnel is being analysed with the help of Public Health Foundation of India," it added.&nbsp;

The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has started providing free testing and treatment to patients in its COVID-19 Health Centre (CHC), announced the Shripad Yesso Naik, Union AYUSH Minister.

The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has started providing free testing and treatment to patients in its COVID-19 Health Centre (CHC), announced the Shripad Yesso Naik, Union AYUSH Minister. Naik visited the CHC on July 28 to review the arrangements at the centre for treatment of COVID-19 patients. During the visit, the minister announced that CHC will provide free of cost testing and treatment facilities to all the patients. He also inaugurated the Intensive Care Unit of CHC, which has been equipped with ventilator facility and all other standard provisions of ICU. The AIIA has also been designated as COVID-19 testing centre (RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing) by the Delhi government. A COVID Call Centre has been established at AIIA for handling queries related to COVID-19 being raised by the general public telephonically, an official statement by the AYUSH Ministry said. The minister praised prophylactic program 'AYURAKSHA' going on for 80,000 Delhi Police personnel under the directions of the ministry. "Delhi Police, being the frontline warriors of COVID-19, are being given AYURAKSHA kit for boosting the immunity and increasing quality of life against COVID-19. The AYURAKSHA kit contains Sanshamani Vati (prepared from Giloy), AYUSH Kadha and Anu Taila for nasal application," the official release said. "Till date 158,454 Ayuraksha kits have been distributed in two phases with an overall compliance of more than 90 per cent. Feedback of the Delhi police personnel is being analysed with the help of Public Health Foundation of India," it added.

All India Institute of Ayurveda starts providing free testing, treatment to COVID-19 patients

India has recorded over 52,000 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19-positive cases to 1,584,384.

India reports highest single day increase of 52,000+ positive cases in last 24 hours

n its Unlock 3.0 guidelines issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has allowed gyms and yoga centres to reopen from August 5 if they follow specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Unlock 3.0: No night curfew; Gyms allowed to reopen | India News | India COVID-19

A serological survery has revealed that six out of ten people from Asia's biggest slum, Dharavi, can be identified as antibodies for the novel coronavirus.

The findings were revealed in a serological survey conducted in July from 6,936 people across three suburbs in Mumbai, India.

The survey reveals that more than half of the population has suffered and recovered from COVID-19. This is may be one of the highest population immunity levels known worldwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/half-of-mumbais-slum-residents-have-had-coronavirus-says-study-316613">Also read|&nbsp;Half of Mumbai's slum residents have had coronavirus, says study</a>

“Mumbai’s slums may have reached herd immunity,” said Jayaprakash Muliyil, chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee of India’s National Institute of Epidemiology, and the retired head of one of its premier medical colleges. “If people in Mumbai want a safe place to avoid infection, they should probably go there.”

The study was conducted by&nbsp;municipal authorities and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.

This is being categorised as one of the biggest herd immunity groups in the world. In a 'herd immunity' approach, the disease is consciously allowed to run through the area and citizens to produce more antibodies. However, in the case of Dharavi, the approach was not consciously adopted.

Dharavi, located on the West Coast of India, houses nearly&nbsp;1,000,000 people from the lower-income groups. It is considered to be Asia's biggest slum and one of the most densely populated areas of the world.

When the coronavirus started to spread across the locality, it was predicted that it would be very difficult to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

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However, the steep decline in the number of positive cases tells a different story. First few cases in Dharavi were tested in the beginning of April and then the cases grew rapidly in numbers. However, in the last one month, the figures have decreased in a manner which can either be credited to an excellent response by the local bodies, or can be used as a proof that Dharavi has unknowingly reached herd immunity.

“One explanation is they did an excellent job containing it, the other is that herd immunity has been reached,” Muliyil said. “The virus does its work. The virus doesn’t worry about your quarantine and it is much more efficient than your efforts to contain it.”

Dharavi has only recorded nearly 253 coronavirus-related deaths till day, which can again contribute to the theory of herd immunity.

Experts also seem to believe that India's capital, New Delhi, may also be on its way to becoming another city with herd immunity as few studies earlier this month revealed that&nbsp;a quarter of the population had been exposed to the novel coronavirus.

A serological survery has revealed that six out of ten people from Asia's biggest slum, Dharavi, can be identified as antibodies for the novel coronavirus. The findings were revealed in a serological survey conducted in July from 6,936 people across three suburbs in Mumbai, India.

A serological survery has revealed that six out of ten people from Asia's biggest slum, Dharavi, can be identified as antibodies for the novel coronavirus. The findings were revealed in a serological survey conducted in July from 6,936 people across three suburbs in Mumbai, India. The survey reveals that more than half of the population has suffered and recovered from COVID-19. This is may be one of the highest population immunity levels known worldwide. Also read| Half of Mumbai's slum residents have had coronavirus, says study “Mumbai’s slums may have reached herd immunity,” said Jayaprakash Muliyil, chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee of India’s National Institute of Epidemiology, and the retired head of one of its premier medical colleges. “If people in Mumbai want a safe place to avoid infection, they should probably go there.” The study was conducted by municipal authorities and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. This is being categorised as one of the biggest herd immunity groups in the world. In a 'herd immunity' approach, the disease is consciously allowed to run through the area and citizens to produce more antibodies. However, in the case of Dharavi, the approach was not consciously adopted. Dharavi, located on the West Coast of India, houses nearly 1,000,000 people from the lower-income groups. It is considered to be Asia's biggest slum and one of the most densely populated areas of the world. When the coronavirus started to spread across the locality, it was predicted that it would be very difficult to contain the spread of the deadly virus. × However, the steep decline in the number of positive cases tells a different story. First few cases in Dharavi were tested in the beginning of April and then the cases grew rapidly in numbers. However, in the last one month, the figures have decreased in a manner which can either be credited to an excellent response by the local bodies, or can be used as a proof that Dharavi has unknowingly reached herd immunity. “One explanation is they did an excellent job containing it, the other is that herd immunity has been reached,” Muliyil said. “The virus does its work. The virus doesn’t worry about your quarantine and it is much more efficient than your efforts to contain it.” Dharavi has only recorded nearly 253 coronavirus-related deaths till day, which can again contribute to the theory of herd immunity. Experts also seem to believe that India's capital, New Delhi, may also be on its way to becoming another city with herd immunity as few studies earlier this month revealed that a quarter of the population had been exposed to the novel coronavirus.

Dharavi: Asia's biggest slum may have reached 'herd immunity' unknowingly

India on Thursday reported more than 50,000 daily coronavirus cases for the first time, driven by a surge in infections in rural areas at a time when the government is further easing curbs on movement and commerce.

There were 52,123 new cases in the previous 24 hours, according to the health ministry, taking the total number of infections to almost 1.6 million.

In past 24 hours, at least 775 people died of COVID-related conditions, raising total deaths now just under 35,000.

India has the third highest number of infections globally, behind the United States and Brazil. It has nearly twenty times the number of cases as China, which has a similar-sized population and where the virus was first recorded late last year.

Meanwhile, New Delhi announced the third phase of easing restrictions that had been aimed at preventing the spread of the virus. An evening curfew will be lifted from August 1, and gyms will be allowed to open, but schools, cinemas, and bars will remain closed.

Consumer demand is showing little sign of picking up ahead of India's festival season, where it usually rises significantly.

India on Thursday reported more than 50,000 daily coronavirus cases for the first time, driven by a surge in infections in rural areas at a time when the government is further easing curbs on movement and commerce.

India on Thursday reported more than 50,000 daily coronavirus cases for the first time, driven by a surge in infections in rural areas at a time when the government is further easing curbs on movement and commerce. There were 52,123 new cases in the previous 24 hours, according to the health ministry, taking the total number of infections to almost 1.6 million. In past 24 hours, at least 775 people died of COVID-related conditions, raising total deaths now just under 35,000. India has the third highest number of infections globally, behind the United States and Brazil. It has nearly twenty times the number of cases as China, which has a similar-sized population and where the virus was first recorded late last year. Meanwhile, New Delhi announced the third phase of easing restrictions that had been aimed at preventing the spread of the virus. An evening curfew will be lifted from August 1, and gyms will be allowed to open, but schools, cinemas, and bars will remain closed. Consumer demand is showing little sign of picking up ahead of India's festival season, where it usually rises significantly.

Daily coronavirus cases in India top 50,000 for first time

Amidst the COVID crisis, India has been reaching out to Indian Ocean Island countries of Maldives, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka

MALDIVES&nbsp; 
 
When it comes to the Maldives, India has been helping develop large as well as number of community development projects. In terms of large projects, India will be part of building up International Cricket stadium, expansion of Hanimadhoo Airport, Gulhuifalhu Port project, Cancer Hospital under its 800 million dollar line of credit. It is also helping in the construction of new Institute for Security &amp; Law Enforcement Studies (ISLES) and restoring the iconic Friday Mosque in Male also known as Hukuru Miskiy.

When it comes to community projects, 18 other projects are ongoing/completed under a 50 crore grant.&nbsp;

The streets of the national capital Male are lit up with LED lights supplied by India. India is also helping in modernization of the defence capabilities of the country and had earlier gifted a Made-in-India Fast Interceptor Craft ‘Kaamiyaab’ in Dec 2019.

On COVID crisis, Maldives has been the biggest beneficiary of India's COVID assistance. India sent 2 consignments of medicines, a 14-member Rapid Response Team, about 600 tons of food supplies under its Mission SAGAR to the country.

MAURITIUS

When it comes to Mauritius, India is the largest development partner for Mauritius with extensive focus on people-oriented projects. 5 mammoth infrastructure projects have been completed in the country under India's Special Economic Package (SEP) of $ 353 million announced in 2016. 4 projects have been completed which are-- Metro Express Project at the cost of $ 275 million with Phase 1 being completed, Supreme Court Building at the cost of $ 30million, New ENT Hospital at the cost of &nbsp;USD 14 million, e-Tablets worth $ 14 million. Work is underway on the Social Housing project being built at the cost of $ 20 million.&nbsp;

On defence partnership under India’s ITEC programme in FY 2018-19, 210 civilian and 169 defence slots were offered. Mauritius is also the largest beneficiary of Africa Scholarships under IAFS with 97 ICCR scholarships extended annually for higher education in India.&nbsp;

India has announced Lines of Credit (LOC) worth USD 600 million at concessional terms for Mauritius with a priority focus on developmental projects. It has extended assistance in Health care sector for construction of a Renal Unit and construction of 4 Mediclinics and 2 Area Health Centres AHCs (USD 12 million).

Currently, India is working on Metro Express Project Phase 2, 956 units of Social Housing project being built at the cost of $ 20 million, Construction of Civil Service College, Renal Unit and 4 Med clinics and 2 AHCs.

When it comes to COVID assistance, India was the first to send a medical consignment to Mauritius to deal with the Covid pandemic. This included Hydrocloroquine (HCQ) tablet and other essential medicines which included a special consignment of Ayurvedic medicines. Along with this India sent a dedicated Medical Assistance Team to supplement local government’s efforts against Covid-19 pandemic. 
 
SRI LANKA

When it comes to Sri Lanka, India’s total development assistance portfolio in Sri Lanka exceeds USD 3.45 billion, of which USD 560 million is in the form of grant assistance. &nbsp;Focus ranges from capacity-building to human resources development to connectivity to infrastructure development in all the provinces in Sri Lanka. The areas include cultural conservation like restoration of Thiruketheeswaram temple to the construction of iconic landmarks like Jaffna Cultural Centre to enhancing connectivity like restoration of railway lines.

Its Housing Project to construct 50,000 houses in Sri Lanka is well known as is India’s flagship and largest grant assistance project in Sri Lanka. Over 48,600 houses have been constructed so far and 10,000 houses are planned to be constructed for the Indian-origin Tamil population in the upcountry region.

In terms of health infrastructure, nation-wide Emergency Ambulance Service with 297 ambulances was established under Indian grant assistance. Started in two provinces initially, it was expanded to all the 9 provinces following demand from other areas. The Ambulances played a useful role in saving lives in the aftermath of the Easter terror bombing in Sri Lanka in April 2019.

India has gifted a 150-bed hospital in Dickoya in Central province, a 200-bed ward complex at the General Hospital in Vavuniya, Northern Province, and upgraded medical facilities in 3 hospitals in the Northern Province. Currently, India is constructing a Surgical Unit in Batticaloa Teaching Hospital in the Eastern Province.

On the connectivity front, India has helped restore arterial railway lines, which sustained heavy damage in Tsunami in 2004. New Delhi reconnected northern Sri Lanka with the rest of the country by restoring railway lines, establishing signaling systems and supplying rolling stocks, this after a gap of 25 years. India is also helping in the development of Kankesanthurai harbor in the northern tip. Air connectivity from Chennai to Jaffna was restored after a gap of more than 3 decades with the commencement of flights between Chennai and Jaffna in November 2019.

In November 2019, during the visit of Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to India Indian PM announced two new Lines of Credit for USD 400 million for infrastructure development and USD 50 million for security and counter-terrorism. This is in addition to the USD 100 million LOC offered in 2018 for undertaking solar projects in Sri Lanka.

When it comes to Covid Assistance, India has supported the efforts of Sri Lanka in its fight against COVID 19 by providing them four consignments of Covid-19 related essential life-saving medicines and equipment in April and May 2020. India was the first to send medicines to Sri Lanka.

Amidst the COVID crisis, India has been reaching out to Indian Ocean Island countries of Maldives, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka MALDIVES When it comes to the Maldives, India has been helping develop large as well as number of community development projects.

Amidst the COVID crisis, India has been reaching out to Indian Ocean Island countries of Maldives, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka MALDIVES When it comes to the Maldives, India has been helping develop large as well as number of community development projects. In terms of large projects, India will be part of building up International Cricket stadium, expansion of Hanimadhoo Airport, Gulhuifalhu Port project, Cancer Hospital under its 800 million dollar line of credit. It is also helping in the construction of new Institute for Security & Law Enforcement Studies (ISLES) and restoring the iconic Friday Mosque in Male also known as Hukuru Miskiy. When it comes to community projects, 18 other projects are ongoing/completed under a 50 crore grant. The streets of the national capital Male are lit up with LED lights supplied by India. India is also helping in modernization of the defence capabilities of the country and had earlier gifted a Made-in-India Fast Interceptor Craft ‘Kaamiyaab’ in Dec 2019. On COVID crisis, Maldives has been the biggest beneficiary of India's COVID assistance. India sent 2 consignments of medicines, a 14-member Rapid Response Team, about 600 tons of food supplies under its Mission SAGAR to the country. MAURITIUS When it comes to Mauritius, India is the largest development partner for Mauritius with extensive focus on people-oriented projects. 5 mammoth infrastructure projects have been completed in the country under India's Special Economic Package (SEP) of $ 353 million announced in 2016. 4 projects have been completed which are-- Metro Express Project at the cost of $ 275 million with Phase 1 being completed, Supreme Court Building at the cost of $ 30million, New ENT Hospital at the cost of USD 14 million, e-Tablets worth $ 14 million. Work is underway on the Social Housing project being built at the cost of $ 20 million. On defence partnership under India’s ITEC programme in FY 2018-19, 210 civilian and 169 defence slots were offered. Mauritius is also the largest beneficiary of Africa Scholarships under IAFS with 97 ICCR scholarships extended annually for higher education in India. India has announced Lines of Credit (LOC) worth USD 600 million at concessional terms for Mauritius with a priority focus on developmental projects. It has extended assistance in Health care sector for construction of a Renal Unit and construction of 4 Mediclinics and 2 Area Health Centres AHCs (USD 12 million). Currently, India is working on Metro Express Project Phase 2, 956 units of Social Housing project being built at the cost of $ 20 million, Construction of Civil Service College, Renal Unit and 4 Med clinics and 2 AHCs. When it comes to COVID assistance, India was the first to send a medical consignment to Mauritius to deal with the Covid pandemic. This included Hydrocloroquine (HCQ) tablet and other essential medicines which included a special consignment of Ayurvedic medicines. Along with this India sent a dedicated Medical Assistance Team to supplement local government’s efforts against Covid-19 pandemic. SRI LANKA When it comes to Sri Lanka, India’s total development assistance portfolio in Sri Lanka exceeds USD 3.45 billion, of which USD 560 million is in the form of grant assistance. Focus ranges from capacity-building to human resources development to connectivity to infrastructure development in all the provinces in Sri Lanka. The areas include cultural conservation like restoration of Thiruketheeswaram temple to the construction of iconic landmarks like Jaffna Cultural Centre to enhancing connectivity like restoration of railway lines. Its Housing Project to construct 50,000 houses in Sri Lanka is well known as is India’s flagship and largest grant assistance project in Sri Lanka. Over 48,600 houses have been constructed so far and 10,000 houses are planned to be constructed for the Indian-origin Tamil population in the upcountry region. In terms of health infrastructure, nation-wide Emergency Ambulance Service with 297 ambulances was established under Indian grant assistance. Started in two provinces initially, it was expanded to all the 9 provinces following demand from other areas. The Ambulances played a useful role in saving lives in the aftermath of the Easter terror bombing in Sri Lanka in April 2019. India has gifted a 150-bed hospital in Dickoya in Central province, a 200-bed ward complex at the General Hospital in Vavuniya, Northern Province, and upgraded medical facilities in 3 hospitals in the Northern Province. Currently, India is constructing a Surgical Unit in Batticaloa Teaching Hospital in the Eastern Province. On the connectivity front, India has helped restore arterial railway lines, which sustained heavy damage in Tsunami in 2004. New Delhi reconnected northern Sri Lanka with the rest of the country by restoring railway lines, establishing signaling systems and supplying rolling stocks, this after a gap of 25 years. India is also helping in the development of Kankesanthurai harbor in the northern tip. Air connectivity from Chennai to Jaffna was restored after a gap of more than 3 decades with the commencement of flights between Chennai and Jaffna in November 2019. In November 2019, during the visit of Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to India Indian PM announced two new Lines of Credit for USD 400 million for infrastructure development and USD 50 million for security and counter-terrorism. This is in addition to the USD 100 million LOC offered in 2018 for undertaking solar projects in Sri Lanka. When it comes to Covid Assistance, India has supported the efforts of Sri Lanka in its fight against COVID 19 by providing them four consignments of Covid-19 related essential life-saving medicines and equipment in April and May 2020. India was the first to send medicines to Sri Lanka.

India reaches out to Indian Ocean island countries on Covid crisis, infrastructure development

The threat to tigers remains but India is a beacon of hope. Seven out of 10 tigers in the world roam freely in India's forests. That's according to a govt report released to mark the world tiger day. Earlier this month, India's tiger census of 2018 entered the Guinness book of world records. It was the largest ever camera-trap wildlife survey conducted anywhere in the world. As per the survey, India is home to nearly 3,000 tigers. That's a 30 per cent increase in tiger population in just four years.&nbsp;

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The credit goes to project tiger. Without this tiger conservation programme, the great Bengal tiger would have joined the list of extinct tigers.&nbsp;

When project tiger was launched in 1973, India had around 1,800 tigers. Down from 100,000 tigers at the turn of the 20th century. The colonial elite and Indian royals had hunted tigers to near-extinction. The project stuttered in its fight against poaching. In 2006, the numbers fell to 1,400. This dramatically transformed India's approach to preserving its national animal.

At the start of project tiger, India had just nine tiger reserves. Now, the number has gone up to 50. India's success is a lesson to the 13 other countries with tigers. All, except India, Nepal and Bhutan are struggling to save tigers, even in protected reserves. The group had met in Russia, where they pledged to double the tiger count by 2022.

India can meet the target ahead of time. India's current count of tigers stands at 3,000. In 2011, the count stood around 1,700 and it shows that India's efforts are paying off.

Around the world, about 93 per cent of the tiger’s traditional range is gone due to habitat loss, poaching and lack of prey but India is finding solutions.

In 2019 alone, nearly 50 million dollars was invested in tiger conservation which includes relocating villages outside protected areas.

India has also built the world’s largest animal underpass to let tigers safely pass beneath a highway but, more such measures are required for the tiger's roar to ring through India's forests.

The threat to tigers remains but India is a beacon of hope. Seven out of 10 tigers in the world roam freely in India's forests. That's according to a govt report released to mark the world tiger day.

The threat to tigers remains but India is a beacon of hope. Seven out of 10 tigers in the world roam freely in India's forests. That's according to a govt report released to mark the world tiger day. Earlier this month, India's tiger census of 2018 entered the Guinness book of world records. It was the largest ever camera-trap wildlife survey conducted anywhere in the world. As per the survey, India is home to nearly 3,000 tigers. That's a 30 per cent increase in tiger population in just four years. × The credit goes to project tiger. Without this tiger conservation programme, the great Bengal tiger would have joined the list of extinct tigers. When project tiger was launched in 1973, India had around 1,800 tigers. Down from 100,000 tigers at the turn of the 20th century. The colonial elite and Indian royals had hunted tigers to near-extinction. The project stuttered in its fight against poaching. In 2006, the numbers fell to 1,400. This dramatically transformed India's approach to preserving its national animal. At the start of project tiger, India had just nine tiger reserves. Now, the number has gone up to 50. India's success is a lesson to the 13 other countries with tigers. All, except India, Nepal and Bhutan are struggling to save tigers, even in protected reserves. The group had met in Russia, where they pledged to double the tiger count by 2022. India can meet the target ahead of time. India's current count of tigers stands at 3,000. In 2011, the count stood around 1,700 and it shows that India's efforts are paying off. Around the world, about 93 per cent of the tiger’s traditional range is gone due to habitat loss, poaching and lack of prey but India is finding solutions. In 2019 alone, nearly 50 million dollars was invested in tiger conservation which includes relocating villages outside protected areas. India has also built the world’s largest animal underpass to let tigers safely pass beneath a highway but, more such measures are required for the tiger's roar to ring through India's forests.

Threat to tigers remains but India is a beacon of hope

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit has been advised to go into isolation at his official residence Raj Bhavan in Chennai, after three more staff at the premises tested positive for Covid-19. Of the 38 persons tested, the results of three returned positive, said a statement. The persons who tested positive are being treated at a hospital.&nbsp;

The statement also added that the Governor was fit and healthy, based on the regular health checkup that was conducted on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This comes barely a week after 84 staff at the Tamil Nadu Governor’s official residence had tested positive for Covid-19. A statement issued last Thursday, stated that the Governor Banwarilal Purohit and senior staff were safe and had not come in contact with the personnel who had tested positive. Of the 147 tests conducted last week, 84 had returned positive, said the statement.&nbsp;

Last week, after the first cluster of cases emerged, the whole area of Raj Bhavan including the offices had been disinfected and sanitized by Corporation health Authorities.&nbsp;

Over the last two weeks Tamil Nadu has been seeing a consistent spike in Corona virus cases. &nbsp;On Tuesday, the state had recorded 6972 cases. As per the health department bulletin issued on Tuesday, the state has seen a total of 2, 23,688 Covid-19 cases, which include 1, 66,956 recoveries. There are 57,073 active cases in the state.&nbsp;

However, in recent week’s capital city Chennai has seen a marked dip in cases. When compared to June, the daily cases have nearly come down by half. Chennai recorded 1107 new cases on Tuesday, thus taking the active cases to 12852. So far, the capital city alone has seen 96438 cases.&nbsp;

The Raj Bhavan website mentions that, as a preventive measure Raj Bhavan tours for the tourists stands cancelled till 31st July 2020. However, the premises has been closed for tourists since the first phase of the pan-India lockdown began in late March.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit has been advised to go into isolation at his official residence Raj Bhavan in Chennai, after three more staff at the premises tested positive for Covid-19.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit has been advised to go into isolation at his official residence Raj Bhavan in Chennai, after three more staff at the premises tested positive for Covid-19. Of the 38 persons tested, the results of three returned positive, said a statement. The persons who tested positive are being treated at a hospital. The statement also added that the Governor was fit and healthy, based on the regular health checkup that was conducted on Tuesday. This comes barely a week after 84 staff at the Tamil Nadu Governor’s official residence had tested positive for Covid-19. A statement issued last Thursday, stated that the Governor Banwarilal Purohit and senior staff were safe and had not come in contact with the personnel who had tested positive. Of the 147 tests conducted last week, 84 had returned positive, said the statement. Last week, after the first cluster of cases emerged, the whole area of Raj Bhavan including the offices had been disinfected and sanitized by Corporation health Authorities. Over the last two weeks Tamil Nadu has been seeing a consistent spike in Corona virus cases. On Tuesday, the state had recorded 6972 cases. As per the health department bulletin issued on Tuesday, the state has seen a total of 2, 23,688 Covid-19 cases, which include 1, 66,956 recoveries. There are 57,073 active cases in the state. However, in recent week’s capital city Chennai has seen a marked dip in cases. When compared to June, the daily cases have nearly come down by half. Chennai recorded 1107 new cases on Tuesday, thus taking the active cases to 12852. So far, the capital city alone has seen 96438 cases. The Raj Bhavan website mentions that, as a preventive measure Raj Bhavan tours for the tourists stands cancelled till 31st July 2020. However, the premises has been closed for tourists since the first phase of the pan-India lockdown began in late March.

7-day isolation for Tamil Nadu Governor as 3 more staff test positive; total 87 cases in Raj Bhavan

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning.&nbsp;

A total of 9, 88,029 patients in the country have recovered so far and 34,193 have died since the beginning of the pandemic, government data shows. Today's spike in cases comes a day after India crossed 15 lakh cases.

Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR) – percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases) – are Maharashtra (19.9%), Telangana (15.73 %), Delhi (13.69%), Tamil Nadu (9.14 %), and Gujarat (8.76%).

Kerala reported its highest single-day spike of 1,167 COVID-19 cases taking the infection tally to 20,894 while the death toll climbed to 67 with four more fatalities on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, India’s Covid-19 case fatality rate came further down to 2.25 per cent, and the Centre claimed this is a result of effective implementation of containment strategy combined with house-to-house surveys, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols.

(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning.

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning. A total of 9, 88,029 patients in the country have recovered so far and 34,193 have died since the beginning of the pandemic, government data shows. Today's spike in cases comes a day after India crossed 15 lakh cases. Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR) – percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases) – are Maharashtra (19.9%), Telangana (15.73 %), Delhi (13.69%), Tamil Nadu (9.14 %), and Gujarat (8.76%). Kerala reported its highest single-day spike of 1,167 COVID-19 cases taking the infection tally to 20,894 while the death toll climbed to 67 with four more fatalities on Tuesday. Meanwhile, India’s Covid-19 case fatality rate came further down to 2.25 per cent, and the Centre claimed this is a result of effective implementation of containment strategy combined with house-to-house surveys, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols. (With inputs from agencies)

Spike of 48,513 cases, 768 fatalities push India's tally to 15, 31,669

More than 38,000 Indians became Australian citizens in 2019-2020, a 60 per cent increase from the previous year and the largest diaspora group to be granted the country's citizenship.

Out of the over 200,000 people who became Australian citizens in 2019-2020, 38,209 were Indians, the highest number on record, followed by 25,011 Britishers, 14,764 Chinese and 8821 Pakistanis.

Australia's Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said citizenship was an important part of Australia's success as a socially cohesive, multicultural nation.

"Becoming an Australian citizen means more than just living and working here - it's a pledge of allegiance to our nation, our people and our values. When someone becomes a citizen, they make a pledge to uphold Australia's rights, liberties, laws and democratic values. It represents a willingness to integrate into our successful multicultural nation," Tudge said.

"Being an Australian citizen is an immense privilege, which brings both rights and responsibilities. I congratulate all those who have taken this important step,'' he said in a statement.

In the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, the Australian government started online ceremonies which saw over 60,000 people being conferred the citizenship.

The Department of Home Affairs is resuming citizenship interviews and testing in line with COVID-19 health advice while a small number of appointments for tests and interviews have begun in Perth and Sydney.

As per the Australian Bureau of Statistics' 2016 census, 619,164 people in Australia declared that they were of ethnic Indian ancestry. This comprises 2.8 per cent of the Australian population. Among those, 592,000 were born in India.&nbsp;

More than 38,000 Indians became Australian citizens in 2019-2020, a 60 per cent increase from the previous year and the largest diaspora group to be granted the country's citizenship.

More than 38,000 Indians became Australian citizens in 2019-2020, a 60 per cent increase from the previous year and the largest diaspora group to be granted the country's citizenship. Out of the over 200,000 people who became Australian citizens in 2019-2020, 38,209 were Indians, the highest number on record, followed by 25,011 Britishers, 14,764 Chinese and 8821 Pakistanis. Australia's Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said citizenship was an important part of Australia's success as a socially cohesive, multicultural nation. "Becoming an Australian citizen means more than just living and working here - it's a pledge of allegiance to our nation, our people and our values. When someone becomes a citizen, they make a pledge to uphold Australia's rights, liberties, laws and democratic values. It represents a willingness to integrate into our successful multicultural nation," Tudge said. "Being an Australian citizen is an immense privilege, which brings both rights and responsibilities. I congratulate all those who have taken this important step,'' he said in a statement. In the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, the Australian government started online ceremonies which saw over 60,000 people being conferred the citizenship. The Department of Home Affairs is resuming citizenship interviews and testing in line with COVID-19 health advice while a small number of appointments for tests and interviews have begun in Perth and Sydney. As per the Australian Bureau of Statistics' 2016 census, 619,164 people in Australia declared that they were of ethnic Indian ancestry. This comprises 2.8 per cent of the Australian population. Among those, 592,000 were born in India.

Indians lead in acquiring Australian citizenship in 2019-20

Three Iranian missiles landed near the Al Dhafra airbase in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday after Iran's Revolutionary Guard staged a mock attack on a fake aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz, in a drill which saw two US bases briefly put on missile alert. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tracking-rafales-journey-to-ambala-indias-new-beast-undergoes-air-to-air-refueling-316539">In pics: Tracking Rafale's journey to Ambala: India's new beast undergoes air-to-air refueling</a> 
 
Al-Dhafra is&nbsp;temporarily home to five French-built Rafale fighter jets on their way to India for that country's air force.

The first batch of five Rafale jets had taken off from France on July 27 and will reach India today (July 29). These fighter jets took off from the Merignac airbase in southern France's Bordeaux.

CNN's Barbara Starr tweeted, "CNN has learned US bases at Al Udeid and Al Dhafra went on alert this am when intel indicators showed an Iranian missile possibly headed that way. Personnel told to take cover for several minutes. No missile struck, US officials say they took prudent precautionary measures."

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CNN has learned US bases at Al Udeid and Al Dhafra went on alert this am when intel indicators showed an Iranian missile possibly headed that way. Personnel told to take cover for several minutes. No missile struck, US officials say they took prudent precautionary measures
— Barbara Starr (@barbarastarrcnn) <a href="https://twitter.com/barbarastarrcnn/status/1288139384378851328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The fighter jets, built by French aviation firm Dassault, will be inducted in the Indian Air Force fleet in Haryana's Ambala.&nbsp;

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Bon Voyage: Indian Ambassador to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> interacts with the Indian pilots of the Rafale. Congratulates and wishes them a safe flight to India with a single hop. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ResurgentIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ResurgentIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MeaIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajnathsingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dassault_OnAir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dassault_OnAir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jk3IWD9tYU">pic.twitter.com/jk3IWD9tYU</a>
— India in France (@Indian_Embassy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indian_Embassy/status/1287620263002230784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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India bought 36 Rafale jets from France in a Rs 59,000-crore inter-governmental deal in 2016 and first trance will arrive in India on July 29. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Three Iranian missiles landed near the Al Dhafra airbase in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday after Iran's Revolutionary Guard staged a mock attack on a fake aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz, in a drill which saw two US bases briefly put on missile alert.

Three Iranian missiles landed near the Al Dhafra airbase in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday after Iran's Revolutionary Guard staged a mock attack on a fake aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz, in a drill which saw two US bases briefly put on missile alert. In pics: Tracking Rafale's journey to Ambala: India's new beast undergoes air-to-air refueling Al-Dhafra is temporarily home to five French-built Rafale fighter jets on their way to India for that country's air force. The first batch of five Rafale jets had taken off from France on July 27 and will reach India today (July 29). These fighter jets took off from the Merignac airbase in southern France's Bordeaux. CNN's Barbara Starr tweeted, "CNN has learned US bases at Al Udeid and Al Dhafra went on alert this am when intel indicators showed an Iranian missile possibly headed that way. Personnel told to take cover for several minutes. No missile struck, US officials say they took prudent precautionary measures." CNN has learned US bases at Al Udeid and Al Dhafra went on alert this am when intel indicators showed an Iranian missile possibly headed that way. Personnel told to take cover for several minutes. No missile struck, US officials say they took prudent precautionary measures — Barbara Starr (@barbarastarrcnn) July 28, 2020 × The fighter jets, built by French aviation firm Dassault, will be inducted in the Indian Air Force fleet in Haryana's Ambala. Bon Voyage: Indian Ambassador to #France interacts with the Indian pilots of the Rafale. Congratulates and wishes them a safe flight to India with a single hop. #ResurgentIndia #NewIndia #Rafale@IAF_MCC @MeaIndia @rajnathsingh @Dassault_OnAir @DefenceMinIndia @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/jk3IWD9tYU — India in France (@Indian_Embassy) July 27, 2020 × India bought 36 Rafale jets from France in a Rs 59,000-crore inter-governmental deal in 2016 and first trance will arrive in India on July 29. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports

Hong Kong is not allowing flights from India and the Centre is in discussions with the Kuwait government to establish a bilateral air bubble, said the Civil Aviation Ministry on Wednesday.

Earlier this month, India had formed bilateral air bubbles with countries such as the UAE, the US, Germany and France. Under the pact whereby an air bubble is established between two countries, the airlines of both are allowed to operate special international charter flights during certain restrictions.

Scheduled international passenger flights continue to remain suspended in India since March 23 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

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Civil aviation access is a matter of reciprocal bilateral arrangements. As far as flights to &amp; from Hong Kong are concerned, the problem is that HK is not allowing flights from certain places of origin including India. <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> has applied for permission with the authorities.
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/1288492621191684097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Significant progress made on aviation access between India &amp; Kuwait. Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moca_goi</a> &amp; President of <a href="https://twitter.com/Kuwait_DGCA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kuwait_DGCA</a> had useful &amp; productive discussions on several issues related with bilateral access between our two countries which will be resolved soon.
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/1288492735259803651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and President of Kuwait's Directorate General of Civil Aviation had useful and&nbsp;productive discussions on several issues related with bilateral access between our two countries which will be resolved soon," the ministry said.

Since May 6, international charter flights have been operated by Air India under the Vande Bharat Mission to help stranded people reach their destinations. Private carriers have also operated a certain number of flights under this mission.

The aviation sector has been significantly impacted due to the travel restrictions imposed in India and other countries in view of the coronavirus pandemic. All airlines in India have taken cost-cutting measures such as pay cuts, leave-without-pay and firings of employees in order to conserve cash.

India resumed domestic passenger flights from May 25 after a gap of two months due to the coronavirus pandemic. The airlines have been allowed to operate only a maximum of 45 per cent of their pre-COVID domestic flights.

However, occupancy rate in Indian domestic flights has been around just 50-60 per cent since May 25.

Hong Kong is not allowing flights from India and the Centre is in discussions with the Kuwait government to establish a bilateral air bubble, said the Civil Aviation Ministry on Wednesday.

Hong Kong is not allowing flights from India and the Centre is in discussions with the Kuwait government to establish a bilateral air bubble, said the Civil Aviation Ministry on Wednesday. Earlier this month, India had formed bilateral air bubbles with countries such as the UAE, the US, Germany and France. Under the pact whereby an air bubble is established between two countries, the airlines of both are allowed to operate special international charter flights during certain restrictions. Scheduled international passenger flights continue to remain suspended in India since March 23 amid the coronavirus pandemic. Civil aviation access is a matter of reciprocal bilateral arrangements. As far as flights to & from Hong Kong are concerned, the problem is that HK is not allowing flights from certain places of origin including India. @airindiain has applied for permission with the authorities. — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) July 29, 2020 × Significant progress made on aviation access between India & Kuwait. Secretary @moca_goi & President of @Kuwait_DGCA had useful & productive discussions on several issues related with bilateral access between our two countries which will be resolved soon. — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) July 29, 2020 × "Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and President of Kuwait's Directorate General of Civil Aviation had useful and productive discussions on several issues related with bilateral access between our two countries which will be resolved soon," the ministry said. Since May 6, international charter flights have been operated by Air India under the Vande Bharat Mission to help stranded people reach their destinations. Private carriers have also operated a certain number of flights under this mission. The aviation sector has been significantly impacted due to the travel restrictions imposed in India and other countries in view of the coronavirus pandemic. All airlines in India have taken cost-cutting measures such as pay cuts, leave-without-pay and firings of employees in order to conserve cash. India resumed domestic passenger flights from May 25 after a gap of two months due to the coronavirus pandemic. The airlines have been allowed to operate only a maximum of 45 per cent of their pre-COVID domestic flights. However, occupancy rate in Indian domestic flights has been around just 50-60 per cent since May 25.

Hong Kong not allowing flights from India; discussions on with Kuwait on bilateral air bubble: Govt

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls.

The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/astronaut-shares-picture-of-hurricane-hanna-from-space-leaving-netizens-in-awe-316415" hreflang="en">Astronaut shares picture of Hurricane Hanna from space leaving netizens in awe</a>

10th Standard&nbsp;students Radhika Lakhani and Vaidehi Vekariya stumbled upon the asteroid in the midst of a school project. They then named the asteroid HLC2514.

Project by Space India and NASA

Both the students are based in Gujarat’s city of Surat, on the eastern coast of India. They were working on a project by Space India and NASA. As part of this, students had access to telescopic images from the University of Hawaii when they then analysed.

Space India’s astronomer told CNN that the girls were able to identify the body using a software which analysed images captured by NASA’s PAN Star telescope.

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Indian schoolgirls discover asteroid moving towards Earth <a href="https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF">https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF</a> <a href="https://t.co/EdVvdcYx8k">pic.twitter.com/EdVvdcYx8k</a>
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The project began in June 2020. After the analysis was over, the details were sent out to NASA. Vekariya, 15, told CNN that on July 23 they had received an email from NASA which confirmed that they had spotted an asteroid heading for earth.

On the lookout

The girls were able to identify the object by being on the lookout for moving objects in the images.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/giant-swarm-of-flying-ants-spotted-from-space-over-britain-314245" hreflang="en">Giant swarm of flying ants spotted from space over Britain</a>

Currently, the asteroid is circling Mars, and does not remain a threat to Earth. However, in over a million years, it will move closer to Earth. Even though it may not cause any harm to our planet, it still remains a potential hazard. The estimated distance between the asteroid and Earth a million years from now will still be more than 10 times the distance between Earth and the Moon.

Asteroids are small rocky objects that usually orbit the sun, but may change their course over time.

The student Vekariya told CNN that “this was a dream”, but suggested that they couldn’t celebrate because of the pandemic.

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls. The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet.

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls. The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet. Also read: Astronaut shares picture of Hurricane Hanna from space leaving netizens in awe 10th Standard students Radhika Lakhani and Vaidehi Vekariya stumbled upon the asteroid in the midst of a school project. They then named the asteroid HLC2514. Project by Space India and NASA Both the students are based in Gujarat’s city of Surat, on the eastern coast of India. They were working on a project by Space India and NASA. As part of this, students had access to telescopic images from the University of Hawaii when they then analysed. Space India’s astronomer told CNN that the girls were able to identify the body using a software which analysed images captured by NASA’s PAN Star telescope. Indian schoolgirls discover asteroid moving towards Earth https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF pic.twitter.com/EdVvdcYx8k — CTV News (@CTVNews) July 28, 2020 × The project began in June 2020. After the analysis was over, the details were sent out to NASA. Vekariya, 15, told CNN that on July 23 they had received an email from NASA which confirmed that they had spotted an asteroid heading for earth. On the lookout The girls were able to identify the object by being on the lookout for moving objects in the images. Also read: Giant swarm of flying ants spotted from space over Britain Currently, the asteroid is circling Mars, and does not remain a threat to Earth. However, in over a million years, it will move closer to Earth. Even though it may not cause any harm to our planet, it still remains a potential hazard. The estimated distance between the asteroid and Earth a million years from now will still be more than 10 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Asteroids are small rocky objects that usually orbit the sun, but may change their course over time. The student Vekariya told CNN that “this was a dream”, but suggested that they couldn’t celebrate because of the pandemic.

Students from Gujarat in India spot an asteroid heading towards Earth

An Indian-American political organisation has announced a whopping USD 10 million to support the community members prepare and run for elected offices across the country.

With the USD 10 million amount, IMPACT plans to create a new programme to identify, elevate, and support Indian-American elected officials running for higher office, it said in a statement on Tuesday.

The announcement was welcomed by Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris.

"I'm excited about the Indian-American community's growing engagement in the political process -- not just as an Indian American, but as someone who believes the more Americans of all ethnicities and backgrounds feel ownership in our democracy, the stronger our democracy will be," the California senator said.

"As IMPACT moves to its next phase of leadership, I look forward to being joined in the Capitol by even more Indian-Americans to move our country forward for everyone," she said.

IMPACT said the groundbreaking investment and prominent hire signals a new phase in the organisation's development at a time when Indian-Americans - the second largest immigrant group in the US - are beginning to flex their political muscle on the national stage.

It said that an Indian-American woman is a top contender to be the Democratic nominee for Vice President; the number of Indian Americans in Congress has grown five-fold in just the past eight years; a record number of dollars are going to Indian-American candidates; and just last week, the campaign arm charged with electing Democrats to Congress released its first-ever Hindi-language political ad.

Simultaneously, IMPACT, the leading political organisation devoted to boosting the number of Indian-Americans in public office by recruiting, training, funding, and electing talented Indian-American candidates, also announced that public interest lawyer Neil Makhija will be its new Executive Director.

"This is a pivotal moment for our community and our country," said Makhija.

Indian-Americans are one of the fastest-growing segments of the US population --&nbsp;doubling in size over the last two decades --&nbsp;ensuring their footprint on the political landscape will only grow in the coming decades.

"After significant gains in previous election cycles, Indian-Americans are poised to assert our emerging power by electing more Indian American candidates at every level of government, and by supporting excellent candidates of all backgrounds who share our ideals of inclusivity, equity, and civil rights," Makhija said.

"Over the next 100 days, IMPACT will be laser-focused on supporting these efforts to maximize the far-reaching potential of the Indian-American community through powerful fundraising, targeted outreach, and grassroots mobilisation,"&nbsp;he added.

Son of Indian immigrants who made Pennsylvania's coal country home, Makhija is a public interest attorney and educator.

He teaches election law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, has advised candidates and philanthropies in Pennsylvania and nationally, and was a Democratic candidate for the Pennsylvania legislature in 2016, outperforming the presidential ticket by 14 points in the district.

"By organising to win elected office, Indian-Americans are infusing politics with new experiences, ideas, and global connections," said Nikil Saval, State Senator-elect in Philadelphia and the first Indian-American elected to the Pennsylvania legislature.

An Indian-American political organisation has announced a whopping USD 10 million to support the community members prepare and run for elected offices across the country.

An Indian-American political organisation has announced a whopping USD 10 million to support the community members prepare and run for elected offices across the country. With the USD 10 million amount, IMPACT plans to create a new programme to identify, elevate, and support Indian-American elected officials running for higher office, it said in a statement on Tuesday. The announcement was welcomed by Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris. "I'm excited about the Indian-American community's growing engagement in the political process -- not just as an Indian American, but as someone who believes the more Americans of all ethnicities and backgrounds feel ownership in our democracy, the stronger our democracy will be," the California senator said. "As IMPACT moves to its next phase of leadership, I look forward to being joined in the Capitol by even more Indian-Americans to move our country forward for everyone," she said. IMPACT said the groundbreaking investment and prominent hire signals a new phase in the organisation's development at a time when Indian-Americans - the second largest immigrant group in the US - are beginning to flex their political muscle on the national stage. It said that an Indian-American woman is a top contender to be the Democratic nominee for Vice President; the number of Indian Americans in Congress has grown five-fold in just the past eight years; a record number of dollars are going to Indian-American candidates; and just last week, the campaign arm charged with electing Democrats to Congress released its first-ever Hindi-language political ad. Simultaneously, IMPACT, the leading political organisation devoted to boosting the number of Indian-Americans in public office by recruiting, training, funding, and electing talented Indian-American candidates, also announced that public interest lawyer Neil Makhija will be its new Executive Director. "This is a pivotal moment for our community and our country," said Makhija. Indian-Americans are one of the fastest-growing segments of the US population -- doubling in size over the last two decades -- ensuring their footprint on the political landscape will only grow in the coming decades. "After significant gains in previous election cycles, Indian-Americans are poised to assert our emerging power by electing more Indian American candidates at every level of government, and by supporting excellent candidates of all backgrounds who share our ideals of inclusivity, equity, and civil rights," Makhija said. "Over the next 100 days, IMPACT will be laser-focused on supporting these efforts to maximize the far-reaching potential of the Indian-American community through powerful fundraising, targeted outreach, and grassroots mobilisation," he added. Son of Indian immigrants who made Pennsylvania's coal country home, Makhija is a public interest attorney and educator. He teaches election law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, has advised candidates and philanthropies in Pennsylvania and nationally, and was a Democratic candidate for the Pennsylvania legislature in 2016, outperforming the presidential ticket by 14 points in the district. "By organising to win elected office, Indian-Americans are infusing politics with new experiences, ideas, and global connections," said Nikil Saval, State Senator-elect in Philadelphia and the first Indian-American elected to the Pennsylvania legislature.

Indian-American group commits USD 10 mn to support community members in US elections

The five Rafale jets left the Merignac airbase in French port city of Bordeaux on Monday and arrived in India after covering a distance of nearly 7,000 km.

First batch of Rafale fighter jets land at Ambala air station

India welcomes the first batch of Rafale fighter jets. The first batch India's five incoming Rafale fighter jets landed at the Ambala Air Force base at around 3.14 PM on Wednesday (July 29, 2020) amid a ceremonial welcome and unprecedented security.

WION Dispatch: India welcomes first batch of Rafale fighter jets

With limited access to smartphones and the internet in Kashmir's remote villages, students have turned to open-air community classes in the valley. Watch report.

WION Fineprint: Open-air community classes in Kashmir

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing&nbsp;10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate (CFR) is lower than what it is globally. CFR has declined from 3.3 per cent on June 19 to 2.23 per cent on Wednesday, "the lowest since April 1", the health ministry said in a statement.

"Not only has the CFR been kept low, but successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in tandem resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries per day for the sixth consecutive day," it said.

The ministry said, "With such consistent increase in recoveries, the gap between the number of recovered patients and active COVID-19 cases currently stands at 4,78,582."

The number of active cases stood at 5,09,447 and they are under medical supervision.

India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 15,31,669 with 48,513 fresh cases recorded in a day, while the country's death toll due to the disease rose to 34,193 with 768 fatalities being reported in the same period, the health ministry data updated at 8 am on Wednesday showed.&nbsp;

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing 10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday.

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing 10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday. India's COVID-19 case fatality rate (CFR) is lower than what it is globally. CFR has declined from 3.3 per cent on June 19 to 2.23 per cent on Wednesday, "the lowest since April 1", the health ministry said in a statement. "Not only has the CFR been kept low, but successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in tandem resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries per day for the sixth consecutive day," it said. The ministry said, "With such consistent increase in recoveries, the gap between the number of recovered patients and active COVID-19 cases currently stands at 4,78,582." The number of active cases stood at 5,09,447 and they are under medical supervision. India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 15,31,669 with 48,513 fresh cases recorded in a day, while the country's death toll due to the disease rose to 34,193 with 768 fatalities being reported in the same period, the health ministry data updated at 8 am on Wednesday showed.

At 2.23 pc COVID-19 fatality rate lowest since Apr 1, recoveries nearing 10 lakh: Health ministry

Over half the people living in the slums of Mumbai have had the coronavirus, according to a city-commissioned study released Tuesday that raises fresh doubts about India's official case numbers.

India is already the third worst-hit country after the US and Brazil, with nearly 1.5 million cases though experts have previously said the lack of testing could mean the true tally is much higher.

Blood tests on 6,936 randomly selected people conducted by Mumbai's city authorities found that 57 percent of slum-dwellers and 16 percent of non-slum residents had virus antibodies.

Mumbai, where about 40 percent of the population lives in slums, has reported just over 110,000 infections and more than 6,000 deaths so far.

The western city of 20 million people is home to India's largest slum Dharavi, where an estimated one million people live.

But deaths in the sprawling slum have not exploded, with local officials saying their aggressive efforts to&nbsp;stem the spread of the virus has been effective.

The survey results suggested asymptomatic infections were "likely to be a high proportion of all infections" and also indicated the virus death rate was likely to be "very low", the study said.

The Mumbai survey came a week after an antibody study commissioned by the government suggested that almost a quarter of people in the capital New Delhi, home to 20 million people, have had the virus.

Over half the people living in the slums of Mumbai have had the coronavirus, according to a city-commissioned study released Tuesday that raises fresh doubts about India's official case numbers.

Over half the people living in the slums of Mumbai have had the coronavirus, according to a city-commissioned study released Tuesday that raises fresh doubts about India's official case numbers. India is already the third worst-hit country after the US and Brazil, with nearly 1.5 million cases though experts have previously said the lack of testing could mean the true tally is much higher. Blood tests on 6,936 randomly selected people conducted by Mumbai's city authorities found that 57 percent of slum-dwellers and 16 percent of non-slum residents had virus antibodies. Mumbai, where about 40 percent of the population lives in slums, has reported just over 110,000 infections and more than 6,000 deaths so far. The western city of 20 million people is home to India's largest slum Dharavi, where an estimated one million people live. But deaths in the sprawling slum have not exploded, with local officials saying their aggressive efforts to stem the spread of the virus has been effective. The survey results suggested asymptomatic infections were "likely to be a high proportion of all infections" and also indicated the virus death rate was likely to be "very low", the study said. The Mumbai survey came a week after an antibody study commissioned by the government suggested that almost a quarter of people in the capital New Delhi, home to 20 million people, have had the virus.

Half of Mumbai's slum residents have had coronavirus, says study

The Union Health Ministry has done away with the requirement of a licence for stocking and sale of hand sanitiser to make it more widely available for the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to an official notification, the ministry granted the exemption under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, but said retailers have to ensure that such products are not sold or stocked after the date of expiry.

The ministry received several representations for exempting hand sanitiser from the requirement of sale licence, the notification said.

The notification, dated July 27, stated that the central government is satisfied that hand sanitiser is essential to meet the requirements of emergency arising due to COVID-19 pandemic and their easy availability is made in public interest.

The Union Health Ministry has done away with the requirement of a licence for stocking and sale of hand sanitiser to make it more widely available for the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Union Health Ministry has done away with the requirement of a licence for stocking and sale of hand sanitiser to make it more widely available for the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic. According to an official notification, the ministry granted the exemption under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, but said retailers have to ensure that such products are not sold or stocked after the date of expiry. The ministry received several representations for exempting hand sanitiser from the requirement of sale licence, the notification said. The notification, dated July 27, stated that the central government is satisfied that hand sanitiser is essential to meet the requirements of emergency arising due to COVID-19 pandemic and their easy availability is made in public interest.

Licence for stocking, sale of hand sanitiser no longer required: Centre 

As part of Unlock 3.0 which will come into effect on August 1, the government on Wednesday allowed yoga institutes and gymnasiums to open from August 5 but added that schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/half-of-mumbais-slum-residents-have-had-coronavirus-says-study-316613">Also Read:&nbsp;Half of Mumbai's slum residents have had coronavirus, says study</a>

The ministry of home affairs(MHA) said that restrictions on the movement of individuals during the night have been removed. The government said that social, political, sports, entertainment and cultural events including religious functions and other large congregations are still not permitted.

The MHA said that yoga institutes and gymnasiums should observe social distancing norms laid down by the health ministry.

"Independence Day functions will be allowed with social distancing and by following other health protocols," it said while adding that wearing of masks and other guidelines should be followed.

The government also allowed international air travel in a "limited manner" under the Vande Bharat mission. Cinema halls and metro services continue to be barred, including the use of swimming pools, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls which have been kept out of Unlock 3.0.

The government said that "lockdown shall continue to be implemented strictly in the containment zones till August 31, while asserting that it should be clearly demarcated by the concerned states and Union Territories to combat the spread of the virus.

As part of Unlock 3.0 which will come into effect on August 1, the government on Wednesday allowed yoga institutes and gymnasiums to open from August 5 but added that schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31.

As part of Unlock 3.0 which will come into effect on August 1, the government on Wednesday allowed yoga institutes and gymnasiums to open from August 5 but added that schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31. Also Read: Half of Mumbai's slum residents have had coronavirus, says study The ministry of home affairs(MHA) said that restrictions on the movement of individuals during the night have been removed. The government said that social, political, sports, entertainment and cultural events including religious functions and other large congregations are still not permitted. The MHA said that yoga institutes and gymnasiums should observe social distancing norms laid down by the health ministry. "Independence Day functions will be allowed with social distancing and by following other health protocols," it said while adding that wearing of masks and other guidelines should be followed. The government also allowed international air travel in a "limited manner" under the Vande Bharat mission. Cinema halls and metro services continue to be barred, including the use of swimming pools, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls which have been kept out of Unlock 3.0. The government said that "lockdown shall continue to be implemented strictly in the containment zones till August 31, while asserting that it should be clearly demarcated by the concerned states and Union Territories to combat the spread of the virus.

Unlock 3.0 from August 1: Government allows gyms to open, no night curfew

The first batch of the much-awaited Rafale fighter jets that took off from France on July 27 will reach India today.

IAF Rafale fighters to land at Ambala air base today

The Congress on Tuesday questioned the government over a Chinese company's engagement in a smart metering project of the Jammu and Kashmir government and demanded answers as to what was the compulsion.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged that Chinese company Dongfang has received a sub-contract for smart metering of power meters in Jammu and Kashmir and wondered how the power ministry could involve a Chinese firm in such a sensitive area.

"We want to know, what is the compulsion? Why would the government allow a company like Dongfang to get into Jammu and Srinagar, to get into the electricity power sector, to get into the RF technology area of the power sector. Why? What are your compulsions," he asked at a virtual press conference.

The Congress leader said on the one hand the government is banning Chinese apps, but on the other hand it is allowing something as critical as power consumption data going to the hands of Dongfang, which he claimed is not only reporting to the Chinese Army and the Chinese government, but has close ties with the current establishment of Pakistan.

"These are very critical questions, in a time when our brave jawans are trying to protect our borders in Ladakh. We do not expect the Government to act, the way it is acting," he said.

Khera also alleged that the Chinese company has several question marks around the globe for its integrity and for its proximity and direct control of the Chinese Army and the Chinese government.

"When that company is allowed to enter into a strategic area of a sensitive state like Jammu &amp; Kashmir, then there are question marks, then these are worrying signs," he said.

Khera said Dongfang was even banned by the World Bank for some time.

The Congress on Tuesday questioned the government over a Chinese company's engagement in a smart metering project of the Jammu and Kashmir government and demanded answers as to what was the compulsion.

The Congress on Tuesday questioned the government over a Chinese company's engagement in a smart metering project of the Jammu and Kashmir government and demanded answers as to what was the compulsion. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera alleged that Chinese company Dongfang has received a sub-contract for smart metering of power meters in Jammu and Kashmir and wondered how the power ministry could involve a Chinese firm in such a sensitive area. "We want to know, what is the compulsion? Why would the government allow a company like Dongfang to get into Jammu and Srinagar, to get into the electricity power sector, to get into the RF technology area of the power sector. Why? What are your compulsions," he asked at a virtual press conference. The Congress leader said on the one hand the government is banning Chinese apps, but on the other hand it is allowing something as critical as power consumption data going to the hands of Dongfang, which he claimed is not only reporting to the Chinese Army and the Chinese government, but has close ties with the current establishment of Pakistan. "These are very critical questions, in a time when our brave jawans are trying to protect our borders in Ladakh. We do not expect the Government to act, the way it is acting," he said. Khera also alleged that the Chinese company has several question marks around the globe for its integrity and for its proximity and direct control of the Chinese Army and the Chinese government. "When that company is allowed to enter into a strategic area of a sensitive state like Jammu & Kashmir, then there are question marks, then these are worrying signs," he said. Khera said Dongfang was even banned by the World Bank for some time.

Why is Chinese company 'Dongfang' involved in J&K govt's smart metering project, asks Congress

Archana Soreng, a climate activist from India, has been named by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to his new advisory group comprising young leaders who will provide perspectives and solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis, as the global body mobilises action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts.

Soreng joins six other young climate leaders, aged between 18 and 28 years, who have been named by Guterres to his new Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change.

Soreng is "experienced in advocacy and research, and she is working to document, preserve, and promote traditional knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous communities," the UN said in a statement on Monday.

"Our ancestors have been protecting the forest and nature over the ages through their traditional knowledge and practices.

Now it is on us to be the front runners in combating the climate crisis," said 24-year-old Soreng, who has studied regulatory governance from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai and is the former TISS Students Union President.

The young activists will advise the UN chief regularly on accelerating global action and ambition to tackle the worsening climate crisis.

The announcement marks a new effort by the United Nations to bring more young leaders into decision-making and planning processes, as the UN works to mobilise climate action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts.

"We are in a climate emergency. We do not have the luxury of time," Guterres said in a video announcing the establishment of the advisory group.

"We need urgent action now to recover better from COVID-19, to confront injustice and inequality and address climate disruption," he said.

Guterres said young people are on the front lines of climate action, showing nations and leaders what bold leadership looks like.

"That is why I am launching my Youth Advisory Group on climate change today to provide perspectives, ideas and solutions that will help us scale up climate action," the UN chief said.

The members of the Secretary-General's Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change represent the diverse voices of young people from all regions as well as small island states.

They will offer perspectives and solutions on climate change, from science to community mobilsation, from entrepreneurship to politics, and from industry to conservation, the UN said.

The initial seven members of the group have been chosen to give frank and fearless advice to the Secretary-General, at a time of growing urgency to hold government and corporate leaders to account on climate action.

The other selected members of the group are climate activist Nisreen Elsaim of Sudan, Fiji's Ernest Gibson, the co-coordinator for 350 Fiji, a regional youth-led climate change network, young economist Vladislav Kaim of Moldova who is committed to ensuring green and decent jobs for youth.

Sophia Kianni of the United States who has helped organise nationwide strikes and is the founder of international nonprofit Climate Cardinals, founder and coordinator of Generation Climate Europe and spokesperson for Youth and Environment Europe, Nathan Metenier of France and lawyer and human rights defender Paloma Costa of Brazil.

The establishment of the group builds on last year's successful Youth Climate Summit  the first time a Secretary-General has convened a summit for young people entirely devoted to climate action.

The summit brought over 1,000 young climate champions together from more than 140 countries to share their solutions on the global stage and deliver a clear message to world leaders: we must act now to confront the climate crisis.

The initiative is also aligned with the Secretary-General's vision for the UN Youth Strategy, launched in September 2018.

Archana Soreng, a climate activist from India, has been named by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to his new advisory group comprising young leaders who will provide perspectives and solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis, as the global body mobilises action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts.

Archana Soreng, a climate activist from India, has been named by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to his new advisory group comprising young leaders who will provide perspectives and solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis, as the global body mobilises action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts. Soreng joins six other young climate leaders, aged between 18 and 28 years, who have been named by Guterres to his new Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. Soreng is "experienced in advocacy and research, and she is working to document, preserve, and promote traditional knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous communities," the UN said in a statement on Monday. "Our ancestors have been protecting the forest and nature over the ages through their traditional knowledge and practices. Now it is on us to be the front runners in combating the climate crisis," said 24-year-old Soreng, who has studied regulatory governance from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai and is the former TISS Students Union President. The young activists will advise the UN chief regularly on accelerating global action and ambition to tackle the worsening climate crisis. The announcement marks a new effort by the United Nations to bring more young leaders into decision-making and planning processes, as the UN works to mobilise climate action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts. "We are in a climate emergency. We do not have the luxury of time," Guterres said in a video announcing the establishment of the advisory group. "We need urgent action now to recover better from COVID-19, to confront injustice and inequality and address climate disruption," he said. Guterres said young people are on the front lines of climate action, showing nations and leaders what bold leadership looks like. "That is why I am launching my Youth Advisory Group on climate change today to provide perspectives, ideas and solutions that will help us scale up climate action," the UN chief said. The members of the Secretary-General's Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change represent the diverse voices of young people from all regions as well as small island states. They will offer perspectives and solutions on climate change, from science to community mobilsation, from entrepreneurship to politics, and from industry to conservation, the UN said. The initial seven members of the group have been chosen to give frank and fearless advice to the Secretary-General, at a time of growing urgency to hold government and corporate leaders to account on climate action. The other selected members of the group are climate activist Nisreen Elsaim of Sudan, Fiji's Ernest Gibson, the co-coordinator for 350 Fiji, a regional youth-led climate change network, young economist Vladislav Kaim of Moldova who is committed to ensuring green and decent jobs for youth. Sophia Kianni of the United States who has helped organise nationwide strikes and is the founder of international nonprofit Climate Cardinals, founder and coordinator of Generation Climate Europe and spokesperson for Youth and Environment Europe, Nathan Metenier of France and lawyer and human rights defender Paloma Costa of Brazil. The establishment of the group builds on last year's successful Youth Climate Summit  the first time a Secretary-General has convened a summit for young people entirely devoted to climate action. The summit brought over 1,000 young climate champions together from more than 140 countries to share their solutions on the global stage and deliver a clear message to world leaders: we must act now to confront the climate crisis. The initiative is also aligned with the Secretary-General's vision for the UN Youth Strategy, launched in September 2018.

Indian activist Archana Soreng named by UN chief to new advisory group on climate change

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved National Education Policy 2020 bringing major reforms in higher education.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said a 21st century National Education Policy (NEP) has been approved by the cabinet today.

"Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given approval to the new education policy for the 21st century. It is important as for 34 years there were no changes in the education policy. I am confident that this will be welcomed by entire society and nation as well as the world`s educators," he said.

Amit Khare, Higher Education Secretary, said it was a historic day and the country has got a New Education Policy (NEP) after 34 years.

"Following the new education policy and reforms, we will achieve 50 per cent Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2035," he said.

He said the NEP includes graded academic, administrative and financial autonomy for institutions and a single regulator for all higher education, working under a self-disclosure based transparent system for approvals in place of numerous `inspections`.

"There are over 45,000 affiliated colleges in our country. Under graded autonomy, academic, administrative and financial autonomy will be given to colleges on the basis of the status of their accreditation. E-courses will be developed in regional languages. Virtual labs will be developed and a National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) is being created," Khare said.He said a wide consultation process was adopted in the formulation of NEP 2020.

"All 2.5 lakh gram panchayats were approached through online platform. Opinions of governments, departments, academic and common people were taken," he said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved National Education Policy 2020 bringing major reforms in higher education. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said a 21st century National Education Policy (NEP) has been approved by the cabinet today.

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved National Education Policy 2020 bringing major reforms in higher education. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said a 21st century National Education Policy (NEP) has been approved by the cabinet today. "Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given approval to the new education policy for the 21st century. It is important as for 34 years there were no changes in the education policy. I am confident that this will be welcomed by entire society and nation as well as the world`s educators," he said. Amit Khare, Higher Education Secretary, said it was a historic day and the country has got a New Education Policy (NEP) after 34 years. "Following the new education policy and reforms, we will achieve 50 per cent Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2035," he said. He said the NEP includes graded academic, administrative and financial autonomy for institutions and a single regulator for all higher education, working under a self-disclosure based transparent system for approvals in place of numerous `inspections`. "There are over 45,000 affiliated colleges in our country. Under graded autonomy, academic, administrative and financial autonomy will be given to colleges on the basis of the status of their accreditation. E-courses will be developed in regional languages. Virtual labs will be developed and a National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) is being created," Khare said.He said a wide consultation process was adopted in the formulation of NEP 2020. "All 2.5 lakh gram panchayats were approached through online platform. Opinions of governments, departments, academic and common people were taken," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

Union Cabinet approves National Education Policy 2020

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said.

They said Indian troops opened fire when they intercepted movement of a group of terrorists near the LoC in the Nowshera sector, they said.

They said there was a brief exchange of fire.

Subsequently a blast took place, probably after an intruder stepped on a landmine.

In the gunfight and blast, two terrorists were killed and another was injured, they said.

The bodies of the slain terrorists were yet to be recovered.

There is apprehension that their accomplices, who were pushed back, might have taken these with them from the spot.

"The entire area along the LoC has been cordoned off and searches are going on," a source said.

On June 1, Army personnel had foiled a similar infiltration bid and killed three heavily-armed intruders in the same area.

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said.

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said. They said Indian troops opened fire when they intercepted movement of a group of terrorists near the LoC in the Nowshera sector, they said. They said there was a brief exchange of fire. Subsequently a blast took place, probably after an intruder stepped on a landmine. In the gunfight and blast, two terrorists were killed and another was injured, they said. The bodies of the slain terrorists were yet to be recovered. There is apprehension that their accomplices, who were pushed back, might have taken these with them from the spot. "The entire area along the LoC has been cordoned off and searches are going on," a source said. On June 1, Army personnel had foiled a similar infiltration bid and killed three heavily-armed intruders in the same area.

Two Pakistani terrorists killed as Army foils infiltration bid along LoC

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