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On the 21st anniversary of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war, The Prime Minister of India began his 'Mann Ki Baat' address to nation by remembering the jawans who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War.

On Sunday, PM Modi pays tribute to Kargil War heroes through his 'Mann Ki Baat'

21 years ago, on 26 July, the Indian Army showed bravery and valor, which has no match in history. To teach a lesson to Pakistan and its terrorists, some of India's warriors were martyred but had thwarted Pakistan's plans with their indomitable courage.

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2020: Remembering independent India's most fierce operation

Demand of immunity boosting bakery rise during the pandemic COVID-19. A young girl from Jammu Kashmir makes immunity booster bakery products.

Demand of immunity boosting bakery rise during the pandemic COVID-19

Human trials has begun across 6 Indian cities as race to find COVID-19 vaccine continue. India has put potential vaccines to human trials. In India, Covaxin & ZyCoV-D currently under trial.

Human trials begin across 6 Indian cities as race to find COVID-19 vaccine continues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled the valour of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War, saying enemy perched atop heights was defeated by brave soldiers.

In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, the prime minister also said that the threat of coronavirus is not over yet and we need to remain vigilant against the deadly virus.

The country is observing the 21st anniversary of the victory in the Kargil War on Sunday.

The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil.

The prime minister added the focus on wearing masks and maintaining social distancing has to continue.

Modi also applauded the efforts of groups in various states including Bihar, Jharkhand and northeast to promote local products during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said this year's Independence Day will be celebrated amid the pandemic and urged youth to resolve to make India self reliant and free of the pandemic.

Modi also expressed solidarity with all those affected by floods and heavy rainfall across India.

The Centre, the state governments, local administrations, NDRF and social organisations are working to provide all possible assistance to those affected, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled the valour of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War, saying enemy perched atop heights was defeated by brave soldiers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled the valour of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War, saying enemy perched atop heights was defeated by brave soldiers. In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, the prime minister also said that the threat of coronavirus is not over yet and we need to remain vigilant against the deadly virus. The country is observing the 21st anniversary of the victory in the Kargil War on Sunday. The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil. The prime minister added the focus on wearing masks and maintaining social distancing has to continue. Modi also applauded the efforts of groups in various states including Bihar, Jharkhand and northeast to promote local products during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said this year's Independence Day will be celebrated amid the pandemic and urged youth to resolve to make India self reliant and free of the pandemic. Modi also expressed solidarity with all those affected by floods and heavy rainfall across India. The Centre, the state governments, local administrations, NDRF and social organisations are working to provide all possible assistance to those affected, he said.

In Mann Ki Baat address, PM Modi touches upon Kargil War, coronavirus, floods

A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region.

The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan.

"The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood", who succeeded the late Asim Umar" AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said.

According to the report, "One member state reported that the ISIL Indian affiliate (Hind Wilayah), which was announced on May 10, 2019, has between 180 and 200 members".

It said that there are "significant numbers of ISIL operatives in Kerala and Karnataka states."

In May last year, the Islamic State (also known as ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) terror group claimed to have established a new "province" in India, the first of its kind announcement that came after clashes between militants and security forces in Kashmir.

The dreaded terror outfit, through its Amaq News Agency, had said that the Arabic name of the new branch is "Wilayah of Hind" (India Province).

A senior Jammu and Kashmir police officer had rejected the claim.

Prevously, ISIS attacks in Kashmir were linked to its so-called Khorasan Province branch, which was set up in 2015 to cover "Afghanistan, Pakistan and nearby lands".

A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region.

A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region. The 26th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team concerning ISIS, al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities said that the al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under the Taliban umbrella from Nimruz, Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan. "The group reportedly has between 150 and 200 members from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan. The current leader of AQIS is Osama Mahmood", who succeeded the late Asim Umar" AQIS is reportedly planning retaliation operations in the region to avenge the death of its former leader," it said. According to the report, "One member state reported that the ISIL Indian affiliate (Hind Wilayah), which was announced on May 10, 2019, has between 180 and 200 members". It said that there are "significant numbers of ISIL operatives in Kerala and Karnataka states." In May last year, the Islamic State (also known as ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) terror group claimed to have established a new "province" in India, the first of its kind announcement that came after clashes between militants and security forces in Kashmir. The dreaded terror outfit, through its Amaq News Agency, had said that the Arabic name of the new branch is "Wilayah of Hind" (India Province). A senior Jammu and Kashmir police officer had rejected the claim. Prevously, ISIS attacks in Kashmir were linked to its so-called Khorasan Province branch, which was set up in 2015 to cover "Afghanistan, Pakistan and nearby lands".

'Significant numbers' of ISIS terrorists in Kerala, Karnataka: UN report

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 1,385,522 on Sunday, with 48,661 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

The recoveries have mounted to 8,85,576, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The COVID-19 death toll in the country rose to 32,063 with 705 fatalities being recorded in a day. There are 4,67,882 active cases of coronavirus infection presently in the country. Thus, around 63.92 per cent people have recovered so far.

This is the fourth consecutive day when COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 45,000.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1,62,91,331 samples have been tested up to July 25 with 4,42,263 samples being tested on Saturday, the highest in a day.

Of the 705 deaths reported, 257 are from Maharashtra, 89 from Tamil Nadu, 72 from Karnataka, 52 from Andhra Pradesh, 42 from West Bengal, 39 from Uttar Pradesh, 29 from Delhi, 22 from Gujarat, 14 from Bihar, 12 from Jharkhand, 11 from Rajasthan and 10 from Odisha.

Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir have reported nine fatalities each followed by Madhya Pradesh with eight deaths, Haryana seven, Kerela five, Goa four, Chhattisgarh, Puducherry, Uttarakhand and Nagaland &nbsp;three each, while Assam and Ladakh have registered a fatality each.

(with inputs from agencies)

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 1,385,522 on Sunday, with 48,661 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. The recoveries have mounted to 8,85,576, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 1,385,522 on Sunday, with 48,661 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. The recoveries have mounted to 8,85,576, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The COVID-19 death toll in the country rose to 32,063 with 705 fatalities being recorded in a day. There are 4,67,882 active cases of coronavirus infection presently in the country. Thus, around 63.92 per cent people have recovered so far. This is the fourth consecutive day when COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 45,000. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1,62,91,331 samples have been tested up to July 25 with 4,42,263 samples being tested on Saturday, the highest in a day. Of the 705 deaths reported, 257 are from Maharashtra, 89 from Tamil Nadu, 72 from Karnataka, 52 from Andhra Pradesh, 42 from West Bengal, 39 from Uttar Pradesh, 29 from Delhi, 22 from Gujarat, 14 from Bihar, 12 from Jharkhand, 11 from Rajasthan and 10 from Odisha. Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir have reported nine fatalities each followed by Madhya Pradesh with eight deaths, Haryana seven, Kerela five, Goa four, Chhattisgarh, Puducherry, Uttarakhand and Nagaland three each, while Assam and Ladakh have registered a fatality each. (with inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally climbs to 1,385,522; over 48,000 in last 24 hours

Delhi on Sunday recorded 1,075 COVID-19 cases, taking the caseload in the city to over 1.30 lakh, while the death toll mounted to 3,827, authorities said.

Twenty-one fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, according to the health department's bulletin.

The death toll from the coronavirus infection has risen to 3,827 in the national capital and the total number of cases has climbed to 1,30,606, it said.

From July 11-19, the number of fresh cases were being reported in the range of 1,000 to 2,000 consecutively. The number of fresh cases reported on July 19 stood at 1,211.

On July 20, the fresh case count dipped to 954, but it increased the next day to 1,349.

Since Tuesday, the number of fresh cases have been recorded in excess of 1,000 again. However, the number of active cases on Sunday was 11,904, down from 12,657 on the previous day.

On June 23, the national capital had reported its highest single-day spike, till date, at 3,947.&nbsp;

Delhi on Sunday recorded 1,075 COVID-19 cases, taking the caseload in the city to over 1.30 lakh, while the death toll mounted to 3,827, authorities said. Twenty-one fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, according to the health department's bulletin.

Delhi on Sunday recorded 1,075 COVID-19 cases, taking the caseload in the city to over 1.30 lakh, while the death toll mounted to 3,827, authorities said. Twenty-one fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, according to the health department's bulletin. The death toll from the coronavirus infection has risen to 3,827 in the national capital and the total number of cases has climbed to 1,30,606, it said. From July 11-19, the number of fresh cases were being reported in the range of 1,000 to 2,000 consecutively. The number of fresh cases reported on July 19 stood at 1,211. On July 20, the fresh case count dipped to 954, but it increased the next day to 1,349. Since Tuesday, the number of fresh cases have been recorded in excess of 1,000 again. However, the number of active cases on Sunday was 11,904, down from 12,657 on the previous day. On June 23, the national capital had reported its highest single-day spike, till date, at 3,947.

Delhi records 1,075 fresh COVID-19 cases; tally rises to 1,30,606

The number of coronavirus cases in Mumbai reached 1,09,096 after 1,115 cases were reported on Sunday, the civic body said.

The death toll in the Maharashtra capital&nbsp;grew by 57 to 6,090, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement.

As many as 1,361 patients recovered during the day, which took the number of discharged persons to 80,238 so far, it said.

There are 22,768 active COVID-19 cases in the country's financial capital.

Mumbai's recovery rate is 73 per cent and the doubling rate is 67 days, the civic body added.

Till July 25, as many as 4,78,825 tests were conducted.

There are 630 active containment zones in the city, where 6,018 buildings have been sealed to curb the spread of the infection.&nbsp;

The number of coronavirus cases in Mumbai reached 1,09,096 after 1,115 cases were reported on Sunday, the civic body said. The death toll in the Maharashtra capital grew by 57 to 6,090, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement.

The number of coronavirus cases in Mumbai reached 1,09,096 after 1,115 cases were reported on Sunday, the civic body said. The death toll in the Maharashtra capital grew by 57 to 6,090, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement. As many as 1,361 patients recovered during the day, which took the number of discharged persons to 80,238 so far, it said. There are 22,768 active COVID-19 cases in the country's financial capital. Mumbai's recovery rate is 73 per cent and the doubling rate is 67 days, the civic body added. Till July 25, as many as 4,78,825 tests were conducted. There are 630 active containment zones in the city, where 6,018 buildings have been sealed to curb the spread of the infection.

1,115 fresh COVID-19 cases recorded in Mumbai; 57 more die

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the armed forces to mark the 21st anniversary of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war.

The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil.

The day is observed as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' to commemorate India's victory.

"On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations," Modi tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations. 
 
Will speak more about this during today’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a>, which begins shortly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CourageInKargil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CourageInKargil</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1287246658669932546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He added he would speak more about it in his Mann Ki Baat address.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the armed forces to mark the 21st anniversary of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war. The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the armed forces to mark the 21st anniversary of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war. The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after Indian soldiers pushed back Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry, from the captured peaks in Kargil. The day is observed as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' to commemorate India's victory. "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations," Modi tweeted. On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations. Will speak more about this during today’s #MannKiBaat, which begins shortly. #CourageInKargil — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2020 × He added he would speak more about it in his Mann Ki Baat address.

Our armed forces' valour inspires generations: PM Modi on Kargil Vijay Diwas

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community.

They are expected to reach Delhi on Sunday.

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that there has been a recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan by terrorists at the behest of their "external supporters" and India has been providing necessary visas to members of these communities who want to come.

"We have been receiving requests from the members of these communities. They want to move to India, they want to settle down here, and despite the ongoing COVID situation, we are facilitating these requests," MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

He said once those who want to come and settle in India arrive in the country, their requests will be examined and acted upon based on existing rules and policies.

The move comes after the Afghan Sikh community, which numbers less than 700, made multiple appeals to the Embassy and wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking immediate evacuation and rescue.

A heavily armed ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) suicide bomber attacked a gurdwara in the heart of Afghanistan's capital on March 25, killing 25 Sikhs and injuring eight others.

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community.

As many as 11 Sikhs from Afghanistan have been granted short-term visas by the Indian Embassy in Kabul, four months after an Islamic State-backed attack at a gurdwara in Kabul’s Shor Bazaar killed at least 25 members of the community. They are expected to reach Delhi on Sunday. The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that there has been a recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan by terrorists at the behest of their "external supporters" and India has been providing necessary visas to members of these communities who want to come. "We have been receiving requests from the members of these communities. They want to move to India, they want to settle down here, and despite the ongoing COVID situation, we are facilitating these requests," MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He said once those who want to come and settle in India arrive in the country, their requests will be examined and acted upon based on existing rules and policies. The move comes after the Afghan Sikh community, which numbers less than 700, made multiple appeals to the Embassy and wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking immediate evacuation and rescue. A heavily armed ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) suicide bomber attacked a gurdwara in the heart of Afghanistan's capital on March 25, killing 25 Sikhs and injuring eight others.

Eleven Afghan Sikhs granted visas by India

A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region.

UN report: 'Significant numbers' of ISIS terrorists in India's Kerala and Karnataka

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140.

The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said.

With two more deaths, the coronavirus toll in the state climbed to 61.

Two 71-year-old men from Thrissur and Malappuram, who had tested positive and were under treatment, succumbed to the disease, the minister said in a press release.

Of the positive cases, 76 had come from abroad and 91 from other states, while 733 were infected through contact.

The source of infection of 67 people is not yet known.

Presently, 9,655 are undergoing treatment for the infection, while 9,302 have recovered so far, including 689 discharged on Sunday.

As many as 1.56 lakh people are under observation in various districts, of whom 1.47 lakh are in home or institutional quarantine and 8,980 in hospitals, including 1,277 admitted today, the release said.

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140. The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said.

Kerala recorded 927 fresh coronavirus cases, including 16 health workers on Sunday, taking the infection tally to 18,140. The state capital reported 175 cases, followed by Kasaragod 107, Pathnamthitta 91 and Kollam 74, Health minister K K Shailaja said. With two more deaths, the coronavirus toll in the state climbed to 61. Two 71-year-old men from Thrissur and Malappuram, who had tested positive and were under treatment, succumbed to the disease, the minister said in a press release. Of the positive cases, 76 had come from abroad and 91 from other states, while 733 were infected through contact. The source of infection of 67 people is not yet known. Presently, 9,655 are undergoing treatment for the infection, while 9,302 have recovered so far, including 689 discharged on Sunday. As many as 1.56 lakh people are under observation in various districts, of whom 1.47 lakh are in home or institutional quarantine and 8,980 in hospitals, including 1,277 admitted today, the release said.

927 fresh COVID-19 cases in Kerala as tally crosses 18,000 mark

India records over 48,000 COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset. The reason is that they’ have decided against switching on the street lights at their village, after birds started nesting at the common electricity switchboard in the village. In order to save the birds and ensure the safety of the new-born chicks, the village came together.&nbsp;

It was a 20-year old student named Karuppuraja who first spotted the birds nest and the eggs in the switchboard. Following which, he informed the village WhatsApp group and requested that the streetlights remain switched off, keeping in mind the safety of the birds.

While the villagers refer to the bird colloquially, as ‘Kuruvi’ (sparrow), it appears to be a species of Magpie-Robin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-cops-perform-final-rites-after-aged-couple-end-lives-due-to-poverty-sons-neglect-315736">Also read|&nbsp;Chennai: Cops perform final rites after aged couple end lives due to poverty, sons' neglect</a>

It is said that the village that houses about 100 families has 35 streetlights, all of which were connected to the common switchboard (where the birds had nested).&nbsp;

Karthik, a resident of Pothakudi says that everyone in their village instantly agreed to avoid streetlights for the sake of protecting the birds. “We knew that turning the lights on would be a serious hinderance to the birds, so we chose to remain in the dark following 6pm and haven’t switched the lights on for about 35 days” he says.&nbsp;

He adds that the villagers were doing this for the sake of the birds and also the future generations who must grow up marveling at these beautiful creatures.&nbsp;

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset.

At a time when people desperately are longing to step out of their homes amid the unlock phase in many parts of India, villagers in Pothukkudi, of Tamil Nadu’s Siuvaganga district, have restricted going out and have decided to leave their village in the dark, specifically after sunset. The reason is that they’ have decided against switching on the street lights at their village, after birds started nesting at the common electricity switchboard in the village. In order to save the birds and ensure the safety of the new-born chicks, the village came together. It was a 20-year old student named Karuppuraja who first spotted the birds nest and the eggs in the switchboard. Following which, he informed the village WhatsApp group and requested that the streetlights remain switched off, keeping in mind the safety of the birds. While the villagers refer to the bird colloquially, as ‘Kuruvi’ (sparrow), it appears to be a species of Magpie-Robin. Also read| Chennai: Cops perform final rites after aged couple end lives due to poverty, sons' neglect It is said that the village that houses about 100 families has 35 streetlights, all of which were connected to the common switchboard (where the birds had nested). Karthik, a resident of Pothakudi says that everyone in their village instantly agreed to avoid streetlights for the sake of protecting the birds. “We knew that turning the lights on would be a serious hinderance to the birds, so we chose to remain in the dark following 6pm and haven’t switched the lights on for about 35 days” he says. He adds that the villagers were doing this for the sake of the birds and also the future generations who must grow up marveling at these beautiful creatures.

Anything for avian friends: Village in Tamil Nadu avoids streetlights to protect birds

It was a very warm welcome and tears of joy for 11 Afghan Sikhs who reached Delhi on Sunday via Kam Air flight from Afghanistan. They were received at Delhi Airport's ceremonial lounge, reserved for welcoming VVIPs.&nbsp;

The group is the first of the Afghan minorities who are facilitated by the Indian government to reach India by expeditiously processed visas. Around 700 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus have registered at the Indian mission in Kabul for transfer to India.

Abducted Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh was also part of the first batch.&nbsp;

Speaking to media, Nidan Singh said, "Many people, including Pakistani Taliban, used to come and beat me. I thank Indian PM, the Indian government. India is a great country. No danger for anyone".&nbsp;

Lauding India's secular credentials he said, "No one asked my religion here".

Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. Singh and his family of 6--wife, 2 sons and 3 daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees.

10 of the 11 Afghan Sikhs are family members of Sikhs killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack on March 25th in which over 25 Afghan Sikhs being killed. The Afghan Sikhs who returned are Nidan Singh, Makand Lal, Sunmeet Kour, Balender Singh, Charan Kour Singh, Balwan Kour Singh, Gorjeet Singh, Malmeet Kaur, Mandeep Singh, Ponam Kaur and Parwin Singh.

They are hopeful that they will soon get Indian citizenship. Charan Singh, the brother in law of Nidan Singh who is in Delhi told WION, "I am hopeful on citizenship front."

The Indian government has announced that it will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine Indian citizenship requests by them. The spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava in response to a WION question at the weekly presser last week said that Indian government has been receiving requests from these communities that "they want to move to India and settle down here" and despite the COVID pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests".

While no details have been given on the rules, India could give citizenship to these Afghan minorities under the citizenship Amendment Law passed last year in the parliament.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION was the first channel to break the story that India will facilitate return of 11 Afghan Sikhs including Nidan Singh on Sunday.

It was a very warm welcome and tears of joy for 11 Afghan Sikhs who reached Delhi on Sunday via Kam Air flight from Afghanistan. They were received at Delhi Airport's ceremonial lounge, reserved for welcoming VVIPs.

It was a very warm welcome and tears of joy for 11 Afghan Sikhs who reached Delhi on Sunday via Kam Air flight from Afghanistan. They were received at Delhi Airport's ceremonial lounge, reserved for welcoming VVIPs. The group is the first of the Afghan minorities who are facilitated by the Indian government to reach India by expeditiously processed visas. Around 700 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus have registered at the Indian mission in Kabul for transfer to India. Abducted Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh was also part of the first batch. Speaking to media, Nidan Singh said, "Many people, including Pakistani Taliban, used to come and beat me. I thank Indian PM, the Indian government. India is a great country. No danger for anyone". Lauding India's secular credentials he said, "No one asked my religion here". Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. Singh and his family of 6--wife, 2 sons and 3 daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees. 10 of the 11 Afghan Sikhs are family members of Sikhs killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack on March 25th in which over 25 Afghan Sikhs being killed. The Afghan Sikhs who returned are Nidan Singh, Makand Lal, Sunmeet Kour, Balender Singh, Charan Kour Singh, Balwan Kour Singh, Gorjeet Singh, Malmeet Kaur, Mandeep Singh, Ponam Kaur and Parwin Singh. They are hopeful that they will soon get Indian citizenship. Charan Singh, the brother in law of Nidan Singh who is in Delhi told WION, "I am hopeful on citizenship front." The Indian government has announced that it will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine Indian citizenship requests by them. The spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava in response to a WION question at the weekly presser last week said that Indian government has been receiving requests from these communities that "they want to move to India and settle down here" and despite the COVID pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests". While no details have been given on the rules, India could give citizenship to these Afghan minorities under the citizenship Amendment Law passed last year in the parliament. WION was the first channel to break the story that India will facilitate return of 11 Afghan Sikhs including Nidan Singh on Sunday.

Abducted Sikh among other Afghan citizens reach Delhi, thank Modi government

An Indian couple was found dead in their flat in Abu Dhabi, where they lived for nearly 18 years.

Janardhanan Pattiery, 57, worked at a travel agency and his wife Minija, 52, at a chartered accountant and audit firm, the Khaleej Times report said. The couple maintained a "normal" lifestyle but Pattiery had recently lost his job.

The couple's only son now works in Bengaluru, India. The couple&nbsp;hails from Kozhikode, Kerala.

"On Thursday evening, their son phoned me saying his parents weren't answering calls for the past four days. I visited their building. The caretaker said he hadn't seen them for a few days. On Thursday night, police found them dead inside their flat," a friend was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times.

A social worker is following the case for repatriation of bodies.

An Indian couple was found dead in their flat in Abu Dhabi, where they lived for nearly 18 years. Janardhanan Pattiery, 57, worked at a travel agency and his wife Minija, 52, at a chartered accountant and audit firm, the Khaleej Times report said.

An Indian couple was found dead in their flat in Abu Dhabi, where they lived for nearly 18 years. Janardhanan Pattiery, 57, worked at a travel agency and his wife Minija, 52, at a chartered accountant and audit firm, the Khaleej Times report said. The couple maintained a "normal" lifestyle but Pattiery had recently lost his job. The couple's only son now works in Bengaluru, India. The couple hails from Kozhikode, Kerala. "On Thursday evening, their son phoned me saying his parents weren't answering calls for the past four days. I visited their building. The caretaker said he hadn't seen them for a few days. On Thursday night, police found them dead inside their flat," a friend was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times. A social worker is following the case for repatriation of bodies.

Indian couple found dead in Abu Dhabi flat

21 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: How Indian Army dragged Pakistani infiltrators out

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday said that he has tested coronavirus positive. 
Chouhan shared the news on Twitter in the morning.

"I had symptoms of COVID-19. In the test report I was found positive. I appeal to all my colleagues that whoever has come in my contact to get tested for coronavirus. My close contacts should move to quarantine," Chouhan said in a tweet.

In another tweet, the chief minister said that if detected and treated on time, COVID-19 infection can be cured.

"I have been reviewing the status of coronavirus infection in the state every evening since March 25. Now I will try to review the situation through video conferencing as much as possible," he said.

Chouhan also said that in his absence, the meeting to review the coronavirus situation will be held by Home Minister Narottam Mishra, Urban Development and Administration Minister Bhupendra Singh, Medical Education Minister Vishwas Sarang and Health Minister Prabhuram Choudhary.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday said that he has tested coronavirus positive. Chouhan shared the news on Twitter in the morning. "I had symptoms of COVID-19.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday said that he has tested coronavirus positive. Chouhan shared the news on Twitter in the morning. "I had symptoms of COVID-19. In the test report I was found positive. I appeal to all my colleagues that whoever has come in my contact to get tested for coronavirus. My close contacts should move to quarantine," Chouhan said in a tweet. In another tweet, the chief minister said that if detected and treated on time, COVID-19 infection can be cured. "I have been reviewing the status of coronavirus infection in the state every evening since March 25. Now I will try to review the situation through video conferencing as much as possible," he said. Chouhan also said that in his absence, the meeting to review the coronavirus situation will be held by Home Minister Narottam Mishra, Urban Development and Administration Minister Bhupendra Singh, Medical Education Minister Vishwas Sarang and Health Minister Prabhuram Choudhary.

Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan tests positive for coronavirus

India and China on Friday agreed on "early and complete" disengagement of troops in eastern Ladakh and may hold more military talks soon as they held a fresh round of diplomatic parleys amid indications the withdrawal of forces by the Chinese army from certain parts in the region has not gained momentum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-will-maintain-bilateral-military-dialogue-and-promote-further-cooling-at-the-border-china-on-wmcc-talks-with-india-315745">Also Read:&nbsp;Will maintain bilateral military dialogue and promote further cooling at the border, says&nbsp;China on WMCC talks</a>

The two sides agreed that another meeting of senior army commanders may be held soon so as to work out further steps to ensure "expeditiously" complete disengagement and de-escalation" and restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas, the Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) said.

The nearly three-hour-long virtual talks were held under the framework of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs.

People familiar with the issues discussed at the talks said India conveyed a firm message to the Chinese side that it has to implement the disengagement process as agreed to during the four rounds of Corps Commander-level talks.

In Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry said the two sides held a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the border situation and fully affirmed the positive progress made in disengaging the front-line border troops of the two countries and easing the situation on the ground.

The ministry said it was agreed at the talks to properly handle the remaining issues on the ground and further cool down the border situation.

However, the MEA statement did not make any reference to positive progress in disengagement as described by the Chinese foreign ministry.

The MEA said the two sides reviewed the situation in the region as well as the ongoing disengagement process.

"They agreed that early and complete disengagement of the troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and de-escalation from India-China border areas in accordance with bilateral agreement and protocols and full restoration of peace and tranquility was essential for smooth overall development of bilateral relations," it said in a statement.

The MEA said the two sides noted that this was in accordance with the agreement reached between the two Special Representatives during their telephonic conversation on July 5.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a nearly two-hour-long telephonic conversation on July 5 to bring down tension between the armies of the two countries in eastern Ladakh.

Both sides commenced the disengagement process from July 6 following talks between Doval and Wang who are Special Representatives for the boundary question.

The people familiar with the developments on the border row said the disengagement process has not moved forward as expected following the last round of marathon Corps Commander-level talks on July 14.

They said though Chinese military has pulled back from Galwan Valley and certain other friction points in eastern Ladakh, the withdrawal of troops has not moved forward from Finger 5 to Finger 8 in Pangong Tso area as well as in Depsang.

The MEA statement said, "They agreed in this regard that it was necessary for both sides to sincerely implement the understandings reached between senior commanders in their meetings till date".

"The two sides agreed that another meeting of the Senior Commanders may be held soon so as to work out further steps to ensure expeditiously complete disengagement and de-escalation and restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas."

The MEA said the two sides also agreed to maintain their ongoing engagements both at the diplomatic and military level, including through the meetings of the WMCC.

Naveen Srivastava, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the MEA, led the Indian delegation at the talks, while the Chinese side was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Department of boundary and ocean affairs under the Chinese foreign ministry.

The Chinese foreign ministry in its statement further said the two sides stressed that they will maintain bilateral military and diplomatic dialogue and consultation in accordance with the important consensus reached by the foreign ministers of the two countries and the Special Representatives on the border issue.

It said the two sides agreed that they will continue to hold meetings of the China-India WMCC and the Commander-level meeting of the border defence forces to strengthen confidence building measures and jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas. 
After the fourth round of Corps Commander-level talks, the Army said both sides are committed to "complete disengagement" of troops, adding the process is "intricate" and it requires "constant verification".

During a visit to eastern Ladakh last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said progress has been made in the ongoing talks with China to find a solution to the border standoff but he cannot guarantee to what extent it would be resolved.

The tension in eastern Ladakh escalated manifold after the violent clashes in Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

After the last round of military talks, government sources said the Indian side conveyed a "very clear" message to the Chinese army that status quo ante must be restored in eastern Ladakh and it will have to follow all mutually agreed protocols for border management to bring back peace and tranquility.

Government sources said India is keeping a hawk eye vigil on all areas along the LAC in Ladakh and will maintain a high-level of alertness to deal with any eventualities.

India and China on Friday agreed on "early and complete" disengagement of troops in eastern Ladakh and may hold more military talks soon as they held a fresh round of diplomatic parleys amid indications the withdrawal of forces by the Chinese army from certain parts in the region has not gained momentum.

India and China on Friday agreed on "early and complete" disengagement of troops in eastern Ladakh and may hold more military talks soon as they held a fresh round of diplomatic parleys amid indications the withdrawal of forces by the Chinese army from certain parts in the region has not gained momentum. Also Read: Will maintain bilateral military dialogue and promote further cooling at the border, says China on WMCC talks The two sides agreed that another meeting of senior army commanders may be held soon so as to work out further steps to ensure "expeditiously" complete disengagement and de-escalation" and restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas, the Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) said. The nearly three-hour-long virtual talks were held under the framework of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs. People familiar with the issues discussed at the talks said India conveyed a firm message to the Chinese side that it has to implement the disengagement process as agreed to during the four rounds of Corps Commander-level talks. In Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry said the two sides held a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the border situation and fully affirmed the positive progress made in disengaging the front-line border troops of the two countries and easing the situation on the ground. The ministry said it was agreed at the talks to properly handle the remaining issues on the ground and further cool down the border situation. However, the MEA statement did not make any reference to positive progress in disengagement as described by the Chinese foreign ministry. The MEA said the two sides reviewed the situation in the region as well as the ongoing disengagement process. "They agreed that early and complete disengagement of the troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and de-escalation from India-China border areas in accordance with bilateral agreement and protocols and full restoration of peace and tranquility was essential for smooth overall development of bilateral relations," it said in a statement. The MEA said the two sides noted that this was in accordance with the agreement reached between the two Special Representatives during their telephonic conversation on July 5. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a nearly two-hour-long telephonic conversation on July 5 to bring down tension between the armies of the two countries in eastern Ladakh. Both sides commenced the disengagement process from July 6 following talks between Doval and Wang who are Special Representatives for the boundary question. The people familiar with the developments on the border row said the disengagement process has not moved forward as expected following the last round of marathon Corps Commander-level talks on July 14. They said though Chinese military has pulled back from Galwan Valley and certain other friction points in eastern Ladakh, the withdrawal of troops has not moved forward from Finger 5 to Finger 8 in Pangong Tso area as well as in Depsang. The MEA statement said, "They agreed in this regard that it was necessary for both sides to sincerely implement the understandings reached between senior commanders in their meetings till date". "The two sides agreed that another meeting of the Senior Commanders may be held soon so as to work out further steps to ensure expeditiously complete disengagement and de-escalation and restoration of peace and tranquility in the border areas." The MEA said the two sides also agreed to maintain their ongoing engagements both at the diplomatic and military level, including through the meetings of the WMCC. Naveen Srivastava, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the MEA, led the Indian delegation at the talks, while the Chinese side was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Department of boundary and ocean affairs under the Chinese foreign ministry. The Chinese foreign ministry in its statement further said the two sides stressed that they will maintain bilateral military and diplomatic dialogue and consultation in accordance with the important consensus reached by the foreign ministers of the two countries and the Special Representatives on the border issue. It said the two sides agreed that they will continue to hold meetings of the China-India WMCC and the Commander-level meeting of the border defence forces to strengthen confidence building measures and jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas. After the fourth round of Corps Commander-level talks, the Army said both sides are committed to "complete disengagement" of troops, adding the process is "intricate" and it requires "constant verification". During a visit to eastern Ladakh last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said progress has been made in the ongoing talks with China to find a solution to the border standoff but he cannot guarantee to what extent it would be resolved. The tension in eastern Ladakh escalated manifold after the violent clashes in Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35. After the last round of military talks, government sources said the Indian side conveyed a "very clear" message to the Chinese army that status quo ante must be restored in eastern Ladakh and it will have to follow all mutually agreed protocols for border management to bring back peace and tranquility. Government sources said India is keeping a hawk eye vigil on all areas along the LAC in Ladakh and will maintain a high-level of alertness to deal with any eventualities.

India-China standoff: India, China agreed on early and complete disengagement along LAC: MEA

India will soon announce "substantial financial assistance package" for Maldivian economy which will help the country in post-COVID economic recovery. &nbsp;

The was stated during a message from the Indian high commission in the Maldives on the occasion Maldivian Independence Day that will be celebrated on 26th July. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have written to Maldives President Solih on the occasion of Independence day coveying their greetings.

The message from the Indian mission said, "Ours is an all-weather friendship steeped in history and with a glorious future" and "India first policy of Maldives and Neighbourhood first policy of India has set the foundation of the growing relationship"

India has already extended the assistance of $400 million through extended Currency swap arrangement that will help the Indian ocean Island country tide over liquidity crisis. New Delhi has also provided 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines under Operation Sanjeevani and 600 tons of essential food items to the country amidst COVID pandemic.

The Indian mission in the Maldives on the occasion of country's Independence day on Sunday will launch a photo exhibition depicting milestone events between the 2 neighbours. This year marks 55 years of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Maldives.

India will soon announce "substantial financial assistance package" for Maldivian economy which will help the country in post-COVID economic recovery. The was stated during a message from the Indian high commission in the Maldives on the occasion Maldivian Independence Day that will be celebrated on 26th July.

India will soon announce "substantial financial assistance package" for Maldivian economy which will help the country in post-COVID economic recovery. The was stated during a message from the Indian high commission in the Maldives on the occasion Maldivian Independence Day that will be celebrated on 26th July. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have written to Maldives President Solih on the occasion of Independence day coveying their greetings. The message from the Indian mission said, "Ours is an all-weather friendship steeped in history and with a glorious future" and "India first policy of Maldives and Neighbourhood first policy of India has set the foundation of the growing relationship" India has already extended the assistance of $400 million through extended Currency swap arrangement that will help the Indian ocean Island country tide over liquidity crisis. New Delhi has also provided 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines under Operation Sanjeevani and 600 tons of essential food items to the country amidst COVID pandemic. The Indian mission in the Maldives on the occasion of country's Independence day on Sunday will launch a photo exhibition depicting milestone events between the 2 neighbours. This year marks 55 years of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Maldives.

India to announce financial assistance package to the Maldives

The spread of Coronavirus has raised the demand for immunity boosters across the globe while scientists battle to produce vaccines. Taking a cue from the situation, a girl in Kashmir valley has started making immunity-boosting bakery at her father's shop in Srinagar.

India: Kashmiri girl makes immunity boosting bakery ahead of Eid festival

India's COVID-19 tally zoomed past 13 lakhs on Saturday, just two days after it crossed the 12 lakh mark, while the recoveries mounted to 8,49,431, according to the Union Health Ministry.

With 48,916 fresh cases, the country's coronavirus infection tally surged to 13,36,861, while the death toll rose to 31,358 with 757 more people succumbing to the disease in the last 24 hours, data updated by the ministry at 8 am showed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cipla-gets-india-approval-to-sell-covid-19-drug-favipiravir-315807" hreflang="en">Cipla gets India approval to sell COVID-19 drug Favipiravir</a>

There are currently 4,56,071 active cases of COVID-19 in the country. Thus, around 63.54 per cent people have recovered so far. The total number of confirmed cases includes foreigners.

This is the third consecutive day when COVID-19 cases haqve increased by more than 45,000 in India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icmr-norwegian-researchers-trying-to-identify-coronavirus-cases-from-cough-sounds-using-ai-315762" hreflang="en">ICMR, Norwegian researchers trying to identify coronavirus from cough sounds</a>

Of the 757 deaths reported, 278 were from Maharashtra, 108 from Karnataka, 88 from Tamil Nadu, 59 from Uttar Pradesh, 49 from Andhra Pradesh, 35 from West Bengal, 32 from Delhi, 26 from Gujarat, 14 from Jammu and Kashmir, 11 from Madhya Pradesh and eight each from Rajasthan and Telangana.

Assam, Chhattisgarh and Odisha have reported six fatalities each, followed by Punjab five deaths, Kerala and Haryana four each, Bihar and Jharkhand three each, and Puducherry, Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland one fatality each.

India's COVID-19 tally zoomed past 13 lakhs on Saturday, just two days after it crossed the 12 lakh mark, while the recoveries mounted to 8,49,431, according to the Union Health Ministry.

India's COVID-19 tally zoomed past 13 lakhs on Saturday, just two days after it crossed the 12 lakh mark, while the recoveries mounted to 8,49,431, according to the Union Health Ministry. With 48,916 fresh cases, the country's coronavirus infection tally surged to 13,36,861, while the death toll rose to 31,358 with 757 more people succumbing to the disease in the last 24 hours, data updated by the ministry at 8 am showed. Also read: Cipla gets India approval to sell COVID-19 drug Favipiravir There are currently 4,56,071 active cases of COVID-19 in the country. Thus, around 63.54 per cent people have recovered so far. The total number of confirmed cases includes foreigners. This is the third consecutive day when COVID-19 cases haqve increased by more than 45,000 in India. Also read: ICMR, Norwegian researchers trying to identify coronavirus from cough sounds Of the 757 deaths reported, 278 were from Maharashtra, 108 from Karnataka, 88 from Tamil Nadu, 59 from Uttar Pradesh, 49 from Andhra Pradesh, 35 from West Bengal, 32 from Delhi, 26 from Gujarat, 14 from Jammu and Kashmir, 11 from Madhya Pradesh and eight each from Rajasthan and Telangana. Assam, Chhattisgarh and Odisha have reported six fatalities each, followed by Punjab five deaths, Kerala and Haryana four each, Bihar and Jharkhand three each, and Puducherry, Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland one fatality each.

India's coronavirus tally soars to 13,36,861 with 48,916 fresh cases

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.&nbsp;

In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India."

Asked on the so-called referendum being organised outlawed Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terror-india-canada-closely-cooperating-312993">Also read|&nbsp;Khalistani terror: India, Canada closely cooperating</a>

The remarks have been welcomed by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria speaking to WION from Ottawa saying, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns."

He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues."

India has requested Canada to check anti-India activities and also proscribe individuals and entities declared illegal in India.&nbsp;

Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India, accounting for around 1.4 per cent of the population of the North American country.

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada.

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India." Asked on the so-called referendum being organised outlawed Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.” Also read| Khalistani terror: India, Canada closely cooperating The remarks have been welcomed by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria speaking to WION from Ottawa saying, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns." He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues." India has requested Canada to check anti-India activities and also proscribe individuals and entities declared illegal in India. Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India, accounting for around 1.4 per cent of the population of the North American country.

Canada rejects Khalistani separatism impacting India's sovereignty; India welcomes the development

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