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Many a time we hear that a mother's love is the purest form of love, but we often forget to cherish it.&nbsp;

In a video, that has become an instant hit on social media, a mother was seen couragely rescuing her little baby.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-tribute-to-all-mothers-315559/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The footage is from Delhi in which two people try to kidnap a little girl from her home in the broad daylight. The mother did not let that happen and not just snatched her from the kidnappers, but also fought with them.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A woman resolutely held out against two motorcycle-borne men who tried to kidnap her 4-yr-old child in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shakarpur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shakarpur</a> area of east <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. 
 
The whole incident, on Tuesday, was captured on CCTV camera in which the 2 helmet-wearing kidnappers are seen forcibly trying to grab the child. <a href="https://t.co/9hLh4RORQS">pic.twitter.com/9hLh4RORQS</a>
— Syed Amer (@PLAYBOY_2828) <a href="https://twitter.com/PLAYBOY_2828/status/1286034886449496065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The visual is hazy but the mother's courage is clear which intends to keep her children safe.&nbsp;

In the US, another mother showed her valour to save her son from a vicious dog attack.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="409" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-WD3OluhiXo" width="727"></iframe></div>
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The woman in california became her son's human shielld as two dogs tried to attack him.&nbsp;

Two years ago, when firefighters came to rescue a woman and her children from a burning house, a mother ensure that her children were saved first.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="409" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7DbQoQmtXko" width="727"></iframe></div>
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Not just in human beings, even animal kingdom witnesses such acts.

From elephants to giraffes, mothers display unparalleled courage when it comes to protecting their children.

The take on hyenas, lions to save their little ones.&nbsp;

The message is do thank your mother today no matter how worked up you are due to the pandemic. Mothers' Day should not be the sole day to express gratitude to these selfless beings.&nbsp;

Many a time we hear that a mother's love is the purest form of love, but we often forget to cherish it. In a video, that has become an instant hit on social media, a mother was seen couragely rescuing her little baby.

Many a time we hear that a mother's love is the purest form of love, but we often forget to cherish it. In a video, that has become an instant hit on social media, a mother was seen couragely rescuing her little baby. The footage is from Delhi in which two people try to kidnap a little girl from her home in the broad daylight. The mother did not let that happen and not just snatched her from the kidnappers, but also fought with them. A woman resolutely held out against two motorcycle-borne men who tried to kidnap her 4-yr-old child in #Shakarpur area of east #Delhi. The whole incident, on Tuesday, was captured on CCTV camera in which the 2 helmet-wearing kidnappers are seen forcibly trying to grab the child. pic.twitter.com/9hLh4RORQS — Syed Amer (@PLAYBOY_2828) July 22, 2020 × The visual is hazy but the mother's courage is clear which intends to keep her children safe. In the US, another mother showed her valour to save her son from a vicious dog attack. × The woman in california became her son's human shielld as two dogs tried to attack him. Two years ago, when firefighters came to rescue a woman and her children from a burning house, a mother ensure that her children were saved first. × Not just in human beings, even animal kingdom witnesses such acts. From elephants to giraffes, mothers display unparalleled courage when it comes to protecting their children. The take on hyenas, lions to save their little ones. The message is do thank your mother today no matter how worked up you are due to the pandemic. Mothers' Day should not be the sole day to express gratitude to these selfless beings.

Mothers once again prove their love is purest, courageous and selfless

China on Friday said the BRICS nations are in close communication to hold their foreign ministers meeting in Russia in September.

BRICS is the acronym coined for an association of five major emerging national economies -&nbsp;Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Asked whether Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi would attend the meeting, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a media briefing that the coronavirus pandemic is still spreading in the world and all the BRICS countries face a common challenge while fighting the virus at home.

The five countries promote practical cooperation and held events and meetings through flexible ways to keep up the momentum for BRICS cooperation, he said.

"China fully supports Russia's work as the BRICS presidency this year. We hope that under its leadership, BRICS countries will work together for new progress. According to Russia's arrangement the BRICS countries foreign ministers meeting will be held in September and all parties are in close communication regarding this arrangement," Wang said.

He noted that the international situation at present is "very complicated". "China hopes to discuss with other parties prominent challenges facing the world and prepare for the leaders meeting at the upcoming foreign ministers' meeting," the minister said.

Wang said Wednesday's virtual BRICS 10th Economic and Trade Ministers' meeting was successfully held with a joint communique and a joint statement on the multilateral trading regime and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) reform.

The five ministers believe that in face of mounting downward economic pressure, BRICS should work together and enhance cooperation in supply chain and value chain, uphold the multilateral trading regime, avoid protectionism, unilateralism and support necessary WTO reforms and safeguard developing members' rights and interests, he said.

"All BRICS countries are emerging markets and major developing countries with global influence. At present, the five countries by upholding the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation and enhancing cooperation in trade will not only boost economic recovery at home, but will also contribute to the operation of global industrial chain and supply chains and contribute to the global economic recovery at an early date," Wang said. 
&nbsp;

China on Friday said the BRICS nations are in close communication to hold their foreign ministers meeting in Russia in September. BRICS is the acronym coined for an association of five major emerging national economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

China on Friday said the BRICS nations are in close communication to hold their foreign ministers meeting in Russia in September. BRICS is the acronym coined for an association of five major emerging national economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Asked whether Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi would attend the meeting, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a media briefing that the coronavirus pandemic is still spreading in the world and all the BRICS countries face a common challenge while fighting the virus at home. The five countries promote practical cooperation and held events and meetings through flexible ways to keep up the momentum for BRICS cooperation, he said. "China fully supports Russia's work as the BRICS presidency this year. We hope that under its leadership, BRICS countries will work together for new progress. According to Russia's arrangement the BRICS countries foreign ministers meeting will be held in September and all parties are in close communication regarding this arrangement," Wang said. He noted that the international situation at present is "very complicated". "China hopes to discuss with other parties prominent challenges facing the world and prepare for the leaders meeting at the upcoming foreign ministers' meeting," the minister said. Wang said Wednesday's virtual BRICS 10th Economic and Trade Ministers' meeting was successfully held with a joint communique and a joint statement on the multilateral trading regime and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) reform. The five ministers believe that in face of mounting downward economic pressure, BRICS should work together and enhance cooperation in supply chain and value chain, uphold the multilateral trading regime, avoid protectionism, unilateralism and support necessary WTO reforms and safeguard developing members' rights and interests, he said. "All BRICS countries are emerging markets and major developing countries with global influence. At present, the five countries by upholding the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation and enhancing cooperation in trade will not only boost economic recovery at home, but will also contribute to the operation of global industrial chain and supply chains and contribute to the global economic recovery at an early date," Wang said.

Close communication with BRICS to hold foreign ministers meet in Russia: China

Pakistan violated ceasefire in two sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district in the last 24 hours, injuring a woman, an Army official said on Thursday.

In the first ceasefire violation on Wednesday night, Pakistani Army targeted civilian villages in forward areas along the LoC in Tangdhar sector (in Kupwara district of North Kashmir), the official said.

A woman of Hajitra was injured in the Pakistani firing who was taken to a hospital and her condition is stable, he said.

In another incident on Thursday evening, Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation along the LoC in the Naugam sector of Kupwara by firing mortars and other weapons, the official said.

He said befitting response is being given to the Pakistani aggression. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan violated ceasefire in two sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district in the last 24 hours, injuring a woman, an Army official said on Thursday.

Pakistan violated ceasefire in two sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district in the last 24 hours, injuring a woman, an Army official said on Thursday. In the first ceasefire violation on Wednesday night, Pakistani Army targeted civilian villages in forward areas along the LoC in Tangdhar sector (in Kupwara district of North Kashmir), the official said. A woman of Hajitra was injured in the Pakistani firing who was taken to a hospital and her condition is stable, he said. In another incident on Thursday evening, Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation along the LoC in the Naugam sector of Kupwara by firing mortars and other weapons, the official said. He said befitting response is being given to the Pakistani aggression.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu & Kashmir's Kupwara, woman injured 

As Indian and Chinese officials met to discuss the border issues under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination(WMCC), China said that the two sides "fully affirmed the positive progress made by the frontline border defence forces to disengage from contact and ease the situation on the ground."

It was the seventeenth meeting on border affairs between the two sides.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pla-troops-still-stationed-along-lac-despite-disengagement-315500">Also Read:&nbsp;India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement</a>

China emphasised that it "will maintain bilateral military and diplomatic dialogues" in accordance with the important consensus reached by the "two foreign ministers and special representatives on border issues."

Watch:

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The Chinese statement comes amid reports of the People's Liberation Army(PLA) not pulling out of the Line of Control(LAC) as it was reportedly halted its movement, China, however, insisted that border issues on the ground will be properly handled &nbsp;and "promote further cooling of the border situation."

The statement added that the two sides will continue to hold meetings on border affairs and "strengthen the building of confidence" in border areas and "jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas."

The minister of external affairs spokesperson, Anurag Shrivastava had earlier said that "respecting and strictly abiding by the LAC is the basis of peace and tranquillity in the border areas."

"Conduct of Chinese forces this year, including the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour, accompanied by unjustified and untenable claims, has been in complete disregard of all the mutual agreements," he added.

India and China decided to disengage after the clash at Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers had died, although the Chinese side had also suffered casualties as reported by state-run Global Times but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge details. 
&nbsp;

As Indian and Chinese officials met to discuss the border issues under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination(WMCC), China said that the two sides "fully affirmed the positive progress made by the frontline border defence forces to disengage from contact and ease the situation on the ground.

As Indian and Chinese officials met to discuss the border issues under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination(WMCC), China said that the two sides "fully affirmed the positive progress made by the frontline border defence forces to disengage from contact and ease the situation on the ground." It was the seventeenth meeting on border affairs between the two sides. Also Read: India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement China emphasised that it "will maintain bilateral military and diplomatic dialogues" in accordance with the important consensus reached by the "two foreign ministers and special representatives on border issues." Watch: The Chinese statement comes amid reports of the People's Liberation Army(PLA) not pulling out of the Line of Control(LAC) as it was reportedly halted its movement, China, however, insisted that border issues on the ground will be properly handled and "promote further cooling of the border situation." The statement added that the two sides will continue to hold meetings on border affairs and "strengthen the building of confidence" in border areas and "jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas." The minister of external affairs spokesperson, Anurag Shrivastava had earlier said that "respecting and strictly abiding by the LAC is the basis of peace and tranquillity in the border areas." "Conduct of Chinese forces this year, including the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour, accompanied by unjustified and untenable claims, has been in complete disregard of all the mutual agreements," he added. India and China decided to disengage after the clash at Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers had died, although the Chinese side had also suffered casualties as reported by state-run Global Times but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge details.

India-China standoff: Will maintain bilateral military dialogue and promote further cooling at the border: China on WMCC talks with India

An aged couple ended their lives in Chennai on Wednesday, owing to poverty and their sons’ neglect. From the suicide note, it was understood that the couple’s last wish was to be cremated by the Police. The cops from the nearby Sembium station in the city, registered a case under CrPC 174 that deals with unnatural death and later performed the last rites for the mortal remains.&nbsp;

The couple, Gunasekaran (65) and Selvi (58) had three sons, of which two of them were married and were staying in other parts of the city. Police say that their third son was unemployed used to squander money on liquor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/84-staff-at-tamil-nadu-governors-residence-test-covid-19-positive-guv-senior-staff-safe-315359">Also read:&nbsp;84 staff at Tamil Nadu Governor’s residence test Covid-19 positive; Guv, senior staff safe</a>

The elderly man used to work as a security guard at a nearby tennis court, but his earnings were badly hit after the lockdown was imposed and he was forced to stay at home. After having lost his job, without enough money to sustain their basic needs or pay the rent the couple were said to be struggling.&nbsp;

Out of helplessness, the parents had pleaded with their sons for some monetary help, which was not forthcoming, despite repeated requests. This had badly affected the senior person and is&nbsp;said to have prompted the couple to take the extreme step, police said.

The cops, who were alerted by the couple’s neighbors sent the mortal remains to the Government Hospital in Kilpauk. On searching the house, the cops recovered the a suicide note in Tamil. “No one is responsible for our death. Cops, please consider it our wish and perform the final rites” the note scribbled on a small piece of paper read.&nbsp;

The police have registered a case under Section 174 of the CrPC and are investigating further.&nbsp;

An aged couple ended their lives in Chennai on Wednesday, owing to poverty and their sons’ neglect. From the suicide note, it was understood that the couple’s last wish was to be cremated by the Police.

An aged couple ended their lives in Chennai on Wednesday, owing to poverty and their sons’ neglect. From the suicide note, it was understood that the couple’s last wish was to be cremated by the Police. The cops from the nearby Sembium station in the city, registered a case under CrPC 174 that deals with unnatural death and later performed the last rites for the mortal remains. The couple, Gunasekaran (65) and Selvi (58) had three sons, of which two of them were married and were staying in other parts of the city. Police say that their third son was unemployed used to squander money on liquor. Also read: 84 staff at Tamil Nadu Governor’s residence test Covid-19 positive; Guv, senior staff safe The elderly man used to work as a security guard at a nearby tennis court, but his earnings were badly hit after the lockdown was imposed and he was forced to stay at home. After having lost his job, without enough money to sustain their basic needs or pay the rent the couple were said to be struggling. Out of helplessness, the parents had pleaded with their sons for some monetary help, which was not forthcoming, despite repeated requests. This had badly affected the senior person and is said to have prompted the couple to take the extreme step, police said. The cops, who were alerted by the couple’s neighbors sent the mortal remains to the Government Hospital in Kilpauk. On searching the house, the cops recovered the a suicide note in Tamil. “No one is responsible for our death. Cops, please consider it our wish and perform the final rites” the note scribbled on a small piece of paper read. The police have registered a case under Section 174 of the CrPC and are investigating further.

Chennai: Cops perform final rites after aged couple end lives due to poverty, sons' neglect

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.&nbsp;

A Master of Science in food technology, Asma Mohidin, is hoping that her immunity-boosting bakery would be a star attraction on the coming holy Islamic festival of Eid. After completing her degree, she has been involved in innovating new bakery at her father's bakery shop.&nbsp;

She says by adding spices and seeds that are easily available in the market in Kashmir, she made these immunity-boosting cookies and other items which include Vitamin A, Vitamin E, B 6, Omega 3, Omega 6.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-police-carries-out-awareness-rallies-on-covid-19-lockdown-reimposed-315454">Also read:&nbsp;J&amp;K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed</a>

"I discussed this idea with my father. We thought to incorporate scientifically proven nutrients that are immunomodulators and have anti-inflammatory properties," Asma said.

The family is happy after a food lab in Delhi showed positive results as they feared baking might reduce the immunity-boosting property of the bakery. "We sent two samples to a lab in Delhi. We have been working on this for two months," says Sofi Mohiddin, owner of Hilo Makhbaz Bakery, adding that vitamin C has been added in low quantity fearing the biscuits would taste sour.&nbsp;

There have been growing COVID-19 cases in the newly formed union territory which has raised concerns with Srinagar topping the charts among 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have reinforced a fresh lockdown in the Kashmir division after witnessing an upward trend in the COVID graph.&nbsp;

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.

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. A Master of Science in food technology, Asma Mohidin, is hoping that her immunity-boosting bakery would be a star attraction on the coming holy Islamic festival of Eid. After completing her degree, she has been involved in innovating new bakery at her father's bakery shop. She says by adding spices and seeds that are easily available in the market in Kashmir, she made these immunity-boosting cookies and other items which include Vitamin A, Vitamin E, B 6, Omega 3, Omega 6. Also read: J&K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed "I discussed this idea with my father. We thought to incorporate scientifically proven nutrients that are immunomodulators and have anti-inflammatory properties," Asma said. The family is happy after a food lab in Delhi showed positive results as they feared baking might reduce the immunity-boosting property of the bakery. "We sent two samples to a lab in Delhi. We have been working on this for two months," says Sofi Mohiddin, owner of Hilo Makhbaz Bakery, adding that vitamin C has been added in low quantity fearing the biscuits would taste sour. There have been growing COVID-19 cases in the newly formed union territory which has raised concerns with Srinagar topping the charts among 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have reinforced a fresh lockdown in the Kashmir division after witnessing an upward trend in the COVID graph.

COVID-19: Kashmiri girl makes immunity boosting bakery ahead of Eid festival

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has observed that the central and state governments could pass laws that ban online games that involve money such as Online Rummy, card games and others across India. The Court drew a parallel to the recent Telangana government ordinance amending the Telangana Gaming Act 1974, banning Online Rummy. This meant that users playing real cash games from the state are prohibited from doing so.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-preparing-to-deliver-games-with-covid-19-ceo-muto-315215">Tokyo 2020 preparing to deliver Games with COVID-19 - CEO Muto</a>

These observations came up when the Court was hearing a plea filed by a person named Siluvai from Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district.&nbsp;

The issue was pertaining to a case filed by the Kudankulam Police against Siluvai and his friends, for having played cards at a private land in a rural area. The plea stated that the group of friends had not obstructed a footpath or inconvenienced the public, and asked for the case to be quashed.&nbsp;

Hearing this plea, Justice B. Pugalendhi noted that the Tamil Nadu government had prevented many untoward incidents caused by addiction towards gambling by banning the sale of physical and online lottery tickets in 2003.&nbsp;

He added that, contemporary online games including rummy, card games and many other online games have seen people squandering money. it was also stated that particularly the youth were affected by this as their valuable time, and ability to think were being wasted on this, thus leading to unwanted consequences for society.&nbsp;

Justice Pugalendhi also observed that the Central and State governments could pass laws banning such online games involving money, given how a large number of unemployed youth were indulging in this activity. 
&nbsp;

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has observed that the central and state governments could pass laws that ban online games that involve money such as Online Rummy, card games and others across India.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has observed that the central and state governments could pass laws that ban online games that involve money such as Online Rummy, card games and others across India. The Court drew a parallel to the recent Telangana government ordinance amending the Telangana Gaming Act 1974, banning Online Rummy. This meant that users playing real cash games from the state are prohibited from doing so. Also read | Tokyo 2020 preparing to deliver Games with COVID-19 - CEO Muto These observations came up when the Court was hearing a plea filed by a person named Siluvai from Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district. The issue was pertaining to a case filed by the Kudankulam Police against Siluvai and his friends, for having played cards at a private land in a rural area. The plea stated that the group of friends had not obstructed a footpath or inconvenienced the public, and asked for the case to be quashed. Hearing this plea, Justice B. Pugalendhi noted that the Tamil Nadu government had prevented many untoward incidents caused by addiction towards gambling by banning the sale of physical and online lottery tickets in 2003. He added that, contemporary online games including rummy, card games and many other online games have seen people squandering money. it was also stated that particularly the youth were affected by this as their valuable time, and ability to think were being wasted on this, thus leading to unwanted consequences for society. Justice Pugalendhi also observed that the Central and State governments could pass laws banning such online games involving money, given how a large number of unemployed youth were indulging in this activity.

High Court says government can ban games like Online Rummy

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart&nbsp;Benny Gantz&nbsp;on Friday.

"We discussed the prevailing coronavirus situation and how we can fight against this menace through mutual cooperation," defence minister Rajnath Singh informed. The two leaders also reviewed progress on defence cooperation between the two countries.

On Thursday, Israel had said it was sending a "high-level research delegation" to India to conduct "final stages of testing" to jointly develop rapid testing kits for COVID-19. The new kits can reportedly detect the virus in the body in 30 seconds.

Israel is seeking to take advantage of India's mass production capability. India's Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&amp;D) along with Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) have been working on the sophisticated coronavirus kit.

The DDR&amp;D team in India will conduct the "final stages of testing" in the country divided into four types - isothermal test, polyamino acids test, breathalyzer test and voice test.

The two countries will take the help of artificial intelligence to develop the kit which will be validated through using PCR tests.

The Israeli delegation arriving in India to conduct the test will also be getting mechanical ventilators with special permission from the government of Israel for export to India.

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart Benny Gantz on Friday.

As Israel and India look to cooperate in various fields, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and held a telephonic chat with his Israeli counterpart Benny Gantz on Friday. "We discussed the prevailing coronavirus situation and how we can fight against this menace through mutual cooperation," defence minister Rajnath Singh informed. The two leaders also reviewed progress on defence cooperation between the two countries. On Thursday, Israel had said it was sending a "high-level research delegation" to India to conduct "final stages of testing" to jointly develop rapid testing kits for COVID-19. The new kits can reportedly detect the virus in the body in 30 seconds. Israel is seeking to take advantage of India's mass production capability. India's Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) along with Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) have been working on the sophisticated coronavirus kit. The DDR&D team in India will conduct the "final stages of testing" in the country divided into four types - isothermal test, polyamino acids test, breathalyzer test and voice test. The two countries will take the help of artificial intelligence to develop the kit which will be validated through using PCR tests. The Israeli delegation arriving in India to conduct the test will also be getting mechanical ventilators with special permission from the government of Israel for export to India.

India-Israel COVID-19 cooperation: Rajnath speaks to defence minister Benny Gantz

Pakistan has blocked all legal remedies to Indian death row convict Kulbhushan Jadhav. India said that it has requested Pakistan 12 times for consular access to Jadhav and so far Islamabad Islamabad has not once provided the access. Watch report.

Kulbhushan Jadhav's case: India requested Pakistan 12 times for consular access

India's concerted efforts to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade have helped attract investment, but the country needs further economic reforms to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth, according to the IMF.

The remarks by International Monetary Fund's Chief Spokesperson Gerry Rice on Thursday came in response to a question on the recent FDI announcements made by global giants like Facebook and Google in India.

In recent weeks, several international companies have pledged USD 20 billion FDI in India, and a whopping USD 40 billion this year so far.

"Concerted efforts have been made in recent years, in India, to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade, and these have helped to attract investment and improve the current account financing mix and also help to contain external vulnerabilities," Mr Rice told reporters at a news conference in Washington.

"Relevant reforms have included the new bankruptcy code, the National Goods and Services Tax. These have helped to gain in India's doing business ranking, moving up rapidly in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index, up to 63 in 2020, from 100 in 2018, significant progress there, indeed," Mr Rice said.

"Nonetheless, further economic reforms, including labour, product mixed land, and others, and additional infrastructure investment are necessary, in our view, to attract even more investment, and to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth in India," he said in response to the question.

Recently, the IMF in its update to the World Economic Outlook projected India's growth rate at -4.5 per cent, and then six per cent recovery, for the fiscal year 2020-21 and fiscal year 2020-22, respectively, he said.

"Our projection for fiscal year 2020-2021 was revised down, as was the case for most countries driven by the impact of the pandemic," Mr Rice said.

"On balance, I think we would say the risks to the economic outlook remain," he said.

Despite gradual recovery in activities and a solid agricultural performance, the downside risks remain. "The main downside risk is, of course, the continued spread of the pandemic," he noted, referring to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Further outbreaks could require additional lockdowns, and concerns about the virus could also dampen consumer confidence and delay the economic recovery. Again, this is the case not just in India, but in many countries," Mr Rice said.

India's concerted efforts to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade have helped attract investment, but the country needs further economic reforms to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth, according to the IMF.

India's concerted efforts to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade have helped attract investment, but the country needs further economic reforms to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth, according to the IMF. The remarks by International Monetary Fund's Chief Spokesperson Gerry Rice on Thursday came in response to a question on the recent FDI announcements made by global giants like Facebook and Google in India. In recent weeks, several international companies have pledged USD 20 billion FDI in India, and a whopping USD 40 billion this year so far. "Concerted efforts have been made in recent years, in India, to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade, and these have helped to attract investment and improve the current account financing mix and also help to contain external vulnerabilities," Mr Rice told reporters at a news conference in Washington. "Relevant reforms have included the new bankruptcy code, the National Goods and Services Tax. These have helped to gain in India's doing business ranking, moving up rapidly in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index, up to 63 in 2020, from 100 in 2018, significant progress there, indeed," Mr Rice said. "Nonetheless, further economic reforms, including labour, product mixed land, and others, and additional infrastructure investment are necessary, in our view, to attract even more investment, and to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth in India," he said in response to the question. Recently, the IMF in its update to the World Economic Outlook projected India's growth rate at -4.5 per cent, and then six per cent recovery, for the fiscal year 2020-21 and fiscal year 2020-22, respectively, he said. "Our projection for fiscal year 2020-2021 was revised down, as was the case for most countries driven by the impact of the pandemic," Mr Rice said. "On balance, I think we would say the risks to the economic outlook remain," he said. Despite gradual recovery in activities and a solid agricultural performance, the downside risks remain. "The main downside risk is, of course, the continued spread of the pandemic," he noted, referring to the coronavirus pandemic. "Further outbreaks could require additional lockdowns, and concerns about the virus could also dampen consumer confidence and delay the economic recovery. Again, this is the case not just in India, but in many countries," Mr Rice said.

India needs further economic reforms to attract more investment: IMF

Indian and Chinese diplomats will hold another round of talks on Friday to narrow differences on ways to pull back troops eye-balling each other across a disputed border in the western Himalayas, where 20 Indian soldiers died in a clash over a month ago.

The Galwan Valley skirmish marked the worst clash in decades between Asia's nuclear-armed giants.

Since then the two sides have held several rounds of talks to restore calm, and reduced the numbers of troops in the valley, while still pouring reinforcements into the region.

Once they agree on how to sequence a pull back from frontline positions, the next step would be for the withdrawal of all the additional forces and military equipment that were deployed in rear areas after the clash.

Diplomats from both sides will hold talks through a virtual meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, a government source in New Delhi said.

India's foreign ministry spokesman Anurag Srivastava said maintenance of peace on the de facto border, called the Line of Actual Control (LAC), was the basis of bi-lateral relations.

On Thursday, New Delhi said companies from neighbouring countries bidding for government contracts would need to register and obtain security clearance.

Citing security concerns, India has outlawed 59 apps of Chinese origin, including ByteDance's TikTok and Alibaba's UC Browser.&nbsp;

Indian and Chinese diplomats will hold another round of talks on Friday to narrow differences on ways to pull back troops eye-balling each other across a disputed border in the western Himalayas, where 20 Indian soldiers died in a clash over a month ago.

Indian and Chinese diplomats will hold another round of talks on Friday to narrow differences on ways to pull back troops eye-balling each other across a disputed border in the western Himalayas, where 20 Indian soldiers died in a clash over a month ago. The Galwan Valley skirmish marked the worst clash in decades between Asia's nuclear-armed giants. Since then the two sides have held several rounds of talks to restore calm, and reduced the numbers of troops in the valley, while still pouring reinforcements into the region. Once they agree on how to sequence a pull back from frontline positions, the next step would be for the withdrawal of all the additional forces and military equipment that were deployed in rear areas after the clash. Diplomats from both sides will hold talks through a virtual meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, a government source in New Delhi said. India's foreign ministry spokesman Anurag Srivastava said maintenance of peace on the de facto border, called the Line of Actual Control (LAC), was the basis of bi-lateral relations. On Thursday, New Delhi said companies from neighbouring countries bidding for government contracts would need to register and obtain security clearance. Citing security concerns, India has outlawed 59 apps of Chinese origin, including ByteDance's TikTok and Alibaba's UC Browser.

India, China set for more talks to de-escalate Himalayan standoff

India's Chandrayaan-2 mission has marked one year of its launch by GSLV MkIII-M1 and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has said that all of its payloads are performing well.&nbsp;

On July 22, 2019, ISRO launched the GSLV MkIII-M1 carrying Chandrayaan-2 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. It kept revolving around the Earth's orbit for 23 days and on August 14 that craft commenced its journey to the moon.&nbsp;

The Chandrayaan-2 entered the Lumar orbit on August 20, 2019.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> 
Have a look of 3D view of a crater imaged by TMC-2 of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan2</a>. TMC-2 provides images at 5m spatial resolution &amp; stereo triplets (fore, nadir and aft views) for preparing DEM of the complete lunar surface. 
 
For more details visit <a href="https://t.co/urlZqzg3Gw">https://t.co/urlZqzg3Gw</a> <a href="https://t.co/VBvUeH1L8s">pic.twitter.com/VBvUeH1L8s</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1194590582678491137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, India's space agency confirmed that all eight payloads on Chandrayaan-2 were performing well and global mapping of the lunar surface and polar coverage are being carried out as per the mission plan.&nbsp;

In a statement, ISRO said: "Extensive data has been acquired from Chandrayaan-2 payloads and parameters are being derived for (i) presence of water-ice in the polar regions, (ii) X-ray based and Infrared spectroscopic mineral information and (iii) mid and high latitude presence of Argon-40, a condensable gas on the Moon which gets released internally by the radioactive decay of 40 K."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan2</a>’s DF-SAR is designed to produce greater details about the morphology and ejecta materials of impact craters on the lunar surface. Have a look of initial images and observations made by DF-SAR 
 
For more details please visit: <a href="https://t.co/1j7SBcXIpl">https://t.co/1j7SBcXIpl</a> <a href="https://t.co/SEHukoYJMV">pic.twitter.com/SEHukoYJMV</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1186640693323862016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> 
Have a look at the images taken by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan2</a>'s Orbiter High Resolution Camera (OHRC). 
For more images please visit <a href="https://t.co/YBjRO1kTcL">https://t.co/YBjRO1kTcL</a> <a href="https://t.co/K4INnWKbaM">pic.twitter.com/K4INnWKbaM</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1180145587863220225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Initially, ISRO was planning to release the major findings from Chandrayaan-2 science experiments at the Annual Lunar Planetary Science Conference in March 2020 but it was called off due to coronavirus. Now, the data will be released in October wherein details for accessing the data will be provided, it said.&nbsp;

The Orbiter carrying Orbiter High-Resolution Camera (OHRC) has clicked 22 orbit images of lunar surface consisting of nearly 1056 sq. km area and is also used to characterise landing sites for future missions.&nbsp;

India's Chandrayaan-2 mission has marked one year of its launch by GSLV MkIII-M1 and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has said that all of its payloads are performing well.

India's Chandrayaan-2 mission has marked one year of its launch by GSLV MkIII-M1 and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has said that all of its payloads are performing well. On July 22, 2019, ISRO launched the GSLV MkIII-M1 carrying Chandrayaan-2 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. It kept revolving around the Earth's orbit for 23 days and on August 14 that craft commenced its journey to the moon. The Chandrayaan-2 entered the Lumar orbit on August 20, 2019. #ISRO Have a look of 3D view of a crater imaged by TMC-2 of #Chandrayaan2. TMC-2 provides images at 5m spatial resolution & stereo triplets (fore, nadir and aft views) for preparing DEM of the complete lunar surface. For more details visit https://t.co/urlZqzg3Gw pic.twitter.com/VBvUeH1L8s — ISRO (@isro) November 13, 2019 × On Tuesday, India's space agency confirmed that all eight payloads on Chandrayaan-2 were performing well and global mapping of the lunar surface and polar coverage are being carried out as per the mission plan. In a statement, ISRO said: "Extensive data has been acquired from Chandrayaan-2 payloads and parameters are being derived for (i) presence of water-ice in the polar regions, (ii) X-ray based and Infrared spectroscopic mineral information and (iii) mid and high latitude presence of Argon-40, a condensable gas on the Moon which gets released internally by the radioactive decay of 40 K." #ISRO#Chandrayaan2’s DF-SAR is designed to produce greater details about the morphology and ejecta materials of impact craters on the lunar surface. Have a look of initial images and observations made by DF-SAR For more details please visit: https://t.co/1j7SBcXIpl pic.twitter.com/SEHukoYJMV — ISRO (@isro) October 22, 2019 × #ISRO Have a look at the images taken by #Chandrayaan2's Orbiter High Resolution Camera (OHRC). For more images please visit https://t.co/YBjRO1kTcL pic.twitter.com/K4INnWKbaM — ISRO (@isro) October 4, 2019 × Initially, ISRO was planning to release the major findings from Chandrayaan-2 science experiments at the Annual Lunar Planetary Science Conference in March 2020 but it was called off due to coronavirus. Now, the data will be released in October wherein details for accessing the data will be provided, it said. The Orbiter carrying Orbiter High-Resolution Camera (OHRC) has clicked 22 orbit images of lunar surface consisting of nearly 1056 sq. km area and is also used to characterise landing sites for future missions.

Chandrayaan-2 mapping lunar surface as per mission plan: ISRO

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future&nbsp;and&nbsp;''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future. I firmly believe that our approach to the future must primarily be a more human-centric one.''&nbsp;

PM Modi was delivering the keynote address at India Ideas Summit hosted by US-India Business Council (USIBC), via video conferencing.

Global economic resilience can be achieved by stronger domestic economic capacities, he said and added, ''This means improved domestic capacity for manufacturing, restoring the health of the financial system and diversification of international trade.''

India was contributing towards a prosperous and resilient world through the clarion call of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, he said.

''During the last six years, we have made many efforts to make our economy more open and reform-oriented. Reforms have ensured increased ‘competitiveness’, enhanced ‘transparency’, expanded ‘digitization’, greater ‘Innovation’ and more ‘Policy stability’,'' Modi noted.

Calling India as a land of opportunities, Modi quoting a recent report said that there are more rural internet users than even urban internet users.

''Today, there is global optimism&nbsp;towards India. This is because India offers a perfect combination of openness, opportunities &amp; technologies,'' he said.

Modi invited other countries to invest in healthcare.&nbsp;

''The Healthcare sector in India is growing faster than 22 per cent every year. Our companies are also progressing in production of medical-technology, telemedicine and diagnostics,'' he said.

Civil Aviation is another area of great potential growth, he said.&nbsp;

The number of air passengers is expected to more than double within the next 8 years. The top private Indian airlines plan to include over a thousand new aircraft over the coming decade.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future and ''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future and ''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future. I firmly believe that our approach to the future must primarily be a more human-centric one.'' PM Modi was delivering the keynote address at India Ideas Summit hosted by US-India Business Council (USIBC), via video conferencing. Global economic resilience can be achieved by stronger domestic economic capacities, he said and added, ''This means improved domestic capacity for manufacturing, restoring the health of the financial system and diversification of international trade.'' India was contributing towards a prosperous and resilient world through the clarion call of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, he said. ''During the last six years, we have made many efforts to make our economy more open and reform-oriented. Reforms have ensured increased ‘competitiveness’, enhanced ‘transparency’, expanded ‘digitization’, greater ‘Innovation’ and more ‘Policy stability’,'' Modi noted. Calling India as a land of opportunities, Modi quoting a recent report said that there are more rural internet users than even urban internet users. ''Today, there is global optimism towards India. This is because India offers a perfect combination of openness, opportunities & technologies,'' he said. Modi invited other countries to invest in healthcare. ''The Healthcare sector in India is growing faster than 22 per cent every year. Our companies are also progressing in production of medical-technology, telemedicine and diagnostics,'' he said. Civil Aviation is another area of great potential growth, he said. The number of air passengers is expected to more than double within the next 8 years. The top private Indian airlines plan to include over a thousand new aircraft over the coming decade.

India offers perfect combination of openness & opportunities: PM Modi at India Ideas Summit

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently.

Senator Mike Lee said on Wednesday that the current Green Card policy did nothing for the child of an immigrant whose dead parent's Green Card application was ultimately denied because his or her job was no longer available.

"Someone from India entering the backlog today would have to wait 195 years to receive an EB-3 green card. Even if we give their children this limbo status, none of them will have a prayer of becoming a US citizen," Lee said on the Senator floor.

In fiscal year 2019, Indian nationals received 9,008 category 1 (EB1), 2,908 category 2 (EB2), and 5,083 category 3 (EB3) Green Cards. EB1-3 are different categories of employment-based Green Cards.

Lee, the senator from Utah, was speaking on the legislation moved by Senator Dick Durbin that seeks to protect immigrant workers and their children who are stuck in the green card backlog.

"Green cards are critical in the lives of so many who are here on temporary work visas. The backlog puts families at risk of losing their immigration status as they wait year after weary year to finally make it through this green card backlog," Durbin said.

"Our bipartisan agreement would add critical protections that were not in the original bill for immigrant workers and their immediate family members who are stuck in the backlog. They would be able to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status. And children of immigrant workers would be protected from aging out so they will not face deportation," he said.

The Lee-Durbin agreement would make three changes to the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. First, it would immediately protect immigrants and their families who are stuck in the backlog by allowing them to "early file" for Green Cards.

This would allow workers to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status and prevent the children of immigrant workers from "aging out" of Green-Card eligibility so they will not face deportation while they are waiting for a Green Card.

Second, the amendment would create a green-card set aside for immigrant workers who are unable to "early file" because they are stuck in the backlog overseas.

Finally, the amendment would crackdown on abuse of H-1B temporary worker visas by outsourcing companies by prohibiting a company from hiring additional H-1B workers if the company's workforce is more than 50 employees and more than 50 per cent temporary workers.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

"While we continue to debate the best way to fix the Green Card backlog, let's make sure that no children of the affected families are harmed or deported. Just that simple. I offered a new bill, very simply stated, to?protect children of immigrant workers act. This brief three-page bill would ensure that children do not age out while waiting for a Green Card," Durbin said.

"Imagine if you brought your children to the United States, worked on an H-1B visa and your children are waiting for you for the Green Card, you are paying for them to go to college because they don't qualify as American Citizens for any type of federal financial aid. You're making great sacrifices for them and then the day comes when they reach the age of 21 and they can be deported and your family divided," he said.

"Why would we want to let that happen?" Durbin asked.

Noting that he has met many of these young people, the senator said it breaks his heart to hear their story that they may reach a point where they age out and be deported.

"That's why I wanted to offer this specific single provision. There is no reason these children should be punished for a broken immigration system. It's not beyond our control to help them," he added.&nbsp;

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem.

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem. A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently. Senator Mike Lee said on Wednesday that the current Green Card policy did nothing for the child of an immigrant whose dead parent's Green Card application was ultimately denied because his or her job was no longer available. "Someone from India entering the backlog today would have to wait 195 years to receive an EB-3 green card. Even if we give their children this limbo status, none of them will have a prayer of becoming a US citizen," Lee said on the Senator floor. In fiscal year 2019, Indian nationals received 9,008 category 1 (EB1), 2,908 category 2 (EB2), and 5,083 category 3 (EB3) Green Cards. EB1-3 are different categories of employment-based Green Cards. Lee, the senator from Utah, was speaking on the legislation moved by Senator Dick Durbin that seeks to protect immigrant workers and their children who are stuck in the green card backlog. "Green cards are critical in the lives of so many who are here on temporary work visas. The backlog puts families at risk of losing their immigration status as they wait year after weary year to finally make it through this green card backlog," Durbin said. "Our bipartisan agreement would add critical protections that were not in the original bill for immigrant workers and their immediate family members who are stuck in the backlog. They would be able to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status. And children of immigrant workers would be protected from aging out so they will not face deportation," he said. The Lee-Durbin agreement would make three changes to the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. First, it would immediately protect immigrants and their families who are stuck in the backlog by allowing them to "early file" for Green Cards. This would allow workers to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status and prevent the children of immigrant workers from "aging out" of Green-Card eligibility so they will not face deportation while they are waiting for a Green Card. Second, the amendment would create a green-card set aside for immigrant workers who are unable to "early file" because they are stuck in the backlog overseas. Finally, the amendment would crackdown on abuse of H-1B temporary worker visas by outsourcing companies by prohibiting a company from hiring additional H-1B workers if the company's workforce is more than 50 employees and more than 50 per cent temporary workers. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. "While we continue to debate the best way to fix the Green Card backlog, let's make sure that no children of the affected families are harmed or deported. Just that simple. I offered a new bill, very simply stated, to?protect children of immigrant workers act. This brief three-page bill would ensure that children do not age out while waiting for a Green Card," Durbin said. "Imagine if you brought your children to the United States, worked on an H-1B visa and your children are waiting for you for the Green Card, you are paying for them to go to college because they don't qualify as American Citizens for any type of federal financial aid. You're making great sacrifices for them and then the day comes when they reach the age of 21 and they can be deported and your family divided," he said. "Why would we want to let that happen?" Durbin asked. Noting that he has met many of these young people, the senator said it breaks his heart to hear their story that they may reach a point where they age out and be deported. "That's why I wanted to offer this specific single provision. There is no reason these children should be punished for a broken immigration system. It's not beyond our control to help them," he added.

Green Card waitlist for Indian is more than 195 years: US senator

Ahead of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) meet on Friday, India has said it expects "Chinese side will sincerely work with us" for complete disengagement and de-escalation and "full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the earliest".

This will be the third round of virtual WMCC in the last one month. The first round took place on June 24 and the second on July 10.

The remarks are important as&nbsp;disengagement by the Chinese side has slowed. The Chinese continue to maintain positions at finger 5 of Pangong lake despite the first phase negotiations and disengagement talks that took place&nbsp;at Galwan valley, Hot springs, and Gogra.

Government sources told WION, the movement of the Chinese troops appears to be halted at the moment.

The minister of external affairs spokesperson, Anurag Shrivastava said, "respecting and strictly abiding by the LAC is the basis of peace and tranquillity in the border areas."

''Conduct of Chinese forces this year, including the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour, accompanied by unjustified and untenable claims, has been in complete disregard of all the mutual agreements," he added.

He also reiterated that India is "fully committed to observing and respecting the LAC" and "will not accept any unilateral attempts to change the status quo along the LAC."

Ties between the two Asian Giants have deteriorated after the violent clashes took place between Indian and Chinese forces on June 15. They had led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. While China also suffered casualties, it never revealed its details.

India called the Chinese action, "premeditated and planned action". Since the incident, three&nbsp;rounds of military talks have taken place&nbsp;diffuse the tensions.

One Special Representative of India and China were a part of these and they were centered around the Boundary Question led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Ahead of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) meet on Friday, India has said it expects "Chinese side will sincerely work with us" for complete disengagement and de-escalation and "full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the earliest".

Ahead of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) meet on Friday, India has said it expects "Chinese side will sincerely work with us" for complete disengagement and de-escalation and "full restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas at the earliest". This will be the third round of virtual WMCC in the last one month. The first round took place on June 24 and the second on July 10. The remarks are important as disengagement by the Chinese side has slowed. The Chinese continue to maintain positions at finger 5 of Pangong lake despite the first phase negotiations and disengagement talks that took place at Galwan valley, Hot springs, and Gogra. Government sources told WION, the movement of the Chinese troops appears to be halted at the moment. The minister of external affairs spokesperson, Anurag Shrivastava said, "respecting and strictly abiding by the LAC is the basis of peace and tranquillity in the border areas." ''Conduct of Chinese forces this year, including the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour, accompanied by unjustified and untenable claims, has been in complete disregard of all the mutual agreements," he added. He also reiterated that India is "fully committed to observing and respecting the LAC" and "will not accept any unilateral attempts to change the status quo along the LAC." Ties between the two Asian Giants have deteriorated after the violent clashes took place between Indian and Chinese forces on June 15. They had led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. While China also suffered casualties, it never revealed its details. India called the Chinese action, "premeditated and planned action". Since the incident, three rounds of military talks have taken place diffuse the tensions. One Special Representative of India and China were a part of these and they were centered around the Boundary Question led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

India-China standoff: India expects China to work on disengagement ahead of diplomatic talks

Jammu and Kashmir administration on Thursday sanctioned Rs 15 crore to set up additional testing laboratory and equipment for three medical colleges, for Personal protective equipment and other COVID containment efforts under State Disaster Response Fund.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-police-carries-out-awareness-rallies-on-covid-19-lockdown-reimposed-315454" hreflang="en">J&amp;K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed</a>

The sanctioned amount will be equally distributed among Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Government Medical College of Jammu and Srinagar, that is,&nbsp;Rs 5 crore each, stated the press release by the Department of Information and Public Relation, Jammu and Kashmir.

This funding is mainly provided to the Health Department, said Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam during a Subject Expert Committee (SEC) meeting headed on Thursday.

Jammu and Kashmir administration on Thursday sanctioned Rs 15 crore to set up additional testing laboratory and equipment for three medical colleges, for Personal protective equipment and other COVID containment efforts under State Disaster Response Fund.

Jammu and Kashmir administration on Thursday sanctioned Rs 15 crore to set up additional testing laboratory and equipment for three medical colleges, for Personal protective equipment and other COVID containment efforts under State Disaster Response Fund. Also read: J&K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed The sanctioned amount will be equally distributed among Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Government Medical College of Jammu and Srinagar, that is, Rs 5 crore each, stated the press release by the Department of Information and Public Relation, Jammu and Kashmir. This funding is mainly provided to the Health Department, said Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam during a Subject Expert Committee (SEC) meeting headed on Thursday.

Jammu and Kashmir sanctions Rs 15 crore for additional setup in 3 medical colleges

Indian government will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine their Indian citizenship requests. &nbsp;

The spokesperson of India's ministry of external affairs Anurag Shrivastava, in response to a WION question at the weekly presser 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-19 pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests". 
&nbsp; 
Indian mission in Kabul is "providing them necessary visas" to come to India and once they reach the request for citizenship will be "examined and acted upon" based on "rules and policies", he explained.

While no details have been given on the rules, India could give citizenship to the Afghan minorities under the citizenship amendment law passed last year by India which gives citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian religious minorities from three countries - Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan with a cut off date of December 31, 2014.

The development comes days after Delhi-based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh was abducted in the eastern Afghan province of Paktika that borders Pakistans. He was later released.

Delhi sees the "recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikh community" in Afghanistan by "terrorists at the behest of external supporters", indicating Pakistan's involvement.&nbsp;

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh had written to Indian Prime Minister Modi requesting for assistance from Indian government for the release of her husband and also grant citizenship.&nbsp;

Mahrwanti wrote to PM Modi on June 25 saying, "I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest".&nbsp;

Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara.

Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two sons and three daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees.

Indian government will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine their Indian citizenship requests. The spokesperson of India's ministry of external affairs Anurag Shrivastava, in response to a WION question at the weekly presser 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-19 pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests".

Indian government will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine their Indian citizenship requests. The spokesperson of India's ministry of external affairs Anurag Shrivastava, in response to a WION question at the weekly presser 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-19 pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests". Indian mission in Kabul is "providing them necessary visas" to come to India and once they reach the request for citizenship will be "examined and acted upon" based on "rules and policies", he explained. While no details have been given on the rules, India could give citizenship to the Afghan minorities under the citizenship amendment law passed last year by India which gives citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian religious minorities from three countries - Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan with a cut off date of December 31, 2014. The development comes days after Delhi-based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh was abducted in the eastern Afghan province of Paktika that borders Pakistans. He was later released. Delhi sees the "recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikh community" in Afghanistan by "terrorists at the behest of external supporters", indicating Pakistan's involvement. The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh had written to Indian Prime Minister Modi requesting for assistance from Indian government for the release of her husband and also grant citizenship. Mahrwanti wrote to PM Modi on June 25 saying, "I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest". Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara. Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two sons and three daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees.

India to give Afghan Hindus, Sikhs visas; examine citizenship requests

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper, envoy Verma said, "We&nbsp;have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pla-troops-still-stationed-along-lac-despite-disengagement-315500">Also read|&nbsp;India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement</a>

His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the line of actual control after the violent flare up of June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India.&nbsp;

Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue", envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-arming-itself-to-remain-compelling-deterrent-against-attack-by-neighbours-315496">Also read|&nbsp;India arming itself to remain compelling deterrent against attack by neighbours</a>

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in&nbsp;June end&nbsp;to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 Cr.

On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region."

Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed.&nbsp;

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper, envoy Verma said, "We have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end." Also read| India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the line of actual control after the violent flare up of June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India. Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue", envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year." Also read| India arming itself to remain compelling deterrent against attack by neighbours India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in June end to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 Cr. On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region." Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed.

No business as usual with China until complete disengagement: Indian envoy to Russia Venkatesh Verma

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has taken place at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-amid-reports-of-pla-slowing-de-escalation-india-china-wmcc-talks-on-border-affairs-to-take-place-on-friday-315466">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid reports of PLA slowing de-escalation, India, China WMCC talks on border affairs to take place on Friday</a>

Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper envoy, Verma said,"we have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end."

His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the LAC after the violent flare up on June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India.&nbsp;

Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue" and the envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year."

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in end June to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 crore.

On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region."

Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed.&nbsp;

On India's ties with US versus India's ties with Russia, envoy explained that while "India has a strategic partnership with the United States and cooperation on global issues" New Delhi "pursues an independent foreign policy" and "never joined any alliance and will not do so in future."&nbsp;

On defense procurement, he said, India takes "independent decisions" and see "no contradiction between further development of India's defense relations with Russia and those with the United States", adding, "Our military cooperation with the Russian Federation will continue, taking into account the interests of India in the field of national security"

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has taken place at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has taken place at the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Also Read: Amid reports of PLA slowing de-escalation, India, China WMCC talks on border affairs to take place on Friday Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper envoy, Verma said,"we have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end." His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the LAC after the violent flare up on June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India. Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue" and the envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year." India's defence minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in end June to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 crore. On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region." Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed. On India's ties with US versus India's ties with Russia, envoy explained that while "India has a strategic partnership with the United States and cooperation on global issues" New Delhi "pursues an independent foreign policy" and "never joined any alliance and will not do so in future." On defense procurement, he said, India takes "independent decisions" and see "no contradiction between further development of India's defense relations with Russia and those with the United States", adding, "Our military cooperation with the Russian Federation will continue, taking into account the interests of India in the field of national security"

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US.

Addressing the virtual India Ideas Summit organised by US India Business Council, India's Ambassador to the US on Wednesday said every crisis presents itself with a new opportunity.

The pandemic has made the world realize, the need for resilient and reliable partnerships, which can withstand shocks and uncertainties, Sandhu said.

"India has been a reliable partner, in the global supply chain. When the need arose, we stepped up and supplied COVID related medicines, and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the United States," he said.

Adressing the summit, immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his key note speech, Sandhu said there has been expanded collaboration, between India and the US in areas such as health, vaccine development, science and technology and innovation.

"We are learning from each other's best practices. I firmly believe, that technology will play in an important role, in the Covid and post-Covid world. Already, it is providing innovative solutions, to work, education, business, health-care and even diplomacy. The free and open exchange of ideas, and information, has been one of the biggest strengths, of our partnership," he said.

Noting that India has undertaken a series of structural reforms to attract investment, and improve, the ease of doing business in India, Sandhu said that recent investments announced by American companies, including Google, Facebook and others, reflect the confidence, of foreign investors in the economy. Observing that today India is one of the fastest digitizing countries, he said the reforms and initiatives undertaken by the government have facilitated creation of infrastructure in the sector, which has led to improved digital connectivity, achieved near universal coverage of telecom services and made available adequate spectrum for a range of activities.

This is also an area where there has been long standing cooperation between India and the United States. The potential for deepening is immense and sky is the limit, Sandhu said.

The need for faster internet, smart city plants, industrial automation, connected devices, etc. Make it imperative for India to adopt 5G. Moving beyond connectivity services, 5G even provide solutions for consumers and industry, the ambassador said.

Sandhu said the global economy will see major restructuring of supply chains in the future. 
With the recent disruption and risks, security management of supply chains has become a priority, he said, adding that India has been a reliable partner to many countries, including the United States during the current pandemic.

"As global MNCs, including US companies look for relocating and diversifying their supply chains, we welcome them to invest in India," Sandhu said.&nbsp;

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US.

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US. Addressing the virtual India Ideas Summit organised by US India Business Council, India's Ambassador to the US on Wednesday said every crisis presents itself with a new opportunity. The pandemic has made the world realize, the need for resilient and reliable partnerships, which can withstand shocks and uncertainties, Sandhu said. "India has been a reliable partner, in the global supply chain. When the need arose, we stepped up and supplied COVID related medicines, and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the United States," he said. Adressing the summit, immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his key note speech, Sandhu said there has been expanded collaboration, between India and the US in areas such as health, vaccine development, science and technology and innovation. "We are learning from each other's best practices. I firmly believe, that technology will play in an important role, in the Covid and post-Covid world. Already, it is providing innovative solutions, to work, education, business, health-care and even diplomacy. The free and open exchange of ideas, and information, has been one of the biggest strengths, of our partnership," he said. Noting that India has undertaken a series of structural reforms to attract investment, and improve, the ease of doing business in India, Sandhu said that recent investments announced by American companies, including Google, Facebook and others, reflect the confidence, of foreign investors in the economy. Observing that today India is one of the fastest digitizing countries, he said the reforms and initiatives undertaken by the government have facilitated creation of infrastructure in the sector, which has led to improved digital connectivity, achieved near universal coverage of telecom services and made available adequate spectrum for a range of activities. This is also an area where there has been long standing cooperation between India and the United States. The potential for deepening is immense and sky is the limit, Sandhu said. The need for faster internet, smart city plants, industrial automation, connected devices, etc. Make it imperative for India to adopt 5G. Moving beyond connectivity services, 5G even provide solutions for consumers and industry, the ambassador said. Sandhu said the global economy will see major restructuring of supply chains in the future. With the recent disruption and risks, security management of supply chains has become a priority, he said, adding that India has been a reliable partner to many countries, including the United States during the current pandemic. "As global MNCs, including US companies look for relocating and diversifying their supply chains, we welcome them to invest in India," Sandhu said.

India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain: Ambassador Sandhu

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said.

Democratic Senator Mark Warner, Chairman of Senate Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, in an interaction with members of the US India Security Council said China had emerged as a major problem for the US companies doing businesses in that country and intellectual theft was a big concern.

Warner, who is also co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, said he has sponsored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) act to make India a strategic defense partner on a permanent basis.

Expressing grave concerns over Chinese surveillance on every aspect of the organisations doing business with Beijing, Warner said the US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat from China.

Eminent Indian-American Ramesh Kapur, from the US India Security Council, said that in view of the present scenario, it would make better sense to shift all manufacturing back to America.

He said in areas where there were issues of cost due to labour and other issues, it would make sense to shift the manufacturing to India for all US companies which are at present in China.

Bharat Barai, from Chicago, said that many medium and small-scale electronic companies in the US and India have suffered due to unfair trade practices of China. He also offered the Senator his services in arranging a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a statement.

Koty Krishna said he did a lot of business with China earlier and was always worried about getting back his money and is glad that he has moved out of that country.

Krishna Srinivasa said it was time for the US and India to forge a long-lasting defense partnership that will sustain for at least 40-50 years and requested the senator to pursue the defense partnership with his friends in the senate like Senator Robert Menendez and others.

Nar Koppula told Senator Warner that the Indian American Community has always helped him in his elections and will continue to do so and asked him to be favourable to a stronger US-India partnership.

Rajendar Dichpally expressed concerns over the Chinese aggression against India and warned that Beijing's attitude will not be limited to the South Asian and Pacific regions, asserting that it will expand its ambitions and will be a threat to US in the future due to its vast ambitions.

"All the members agreed that it is absolutely necessary to rein in China with partnerships with other friendly countries," said the statement issued by US India Security Council.

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said.

The US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat of Chinese surveillance, a top American Senator, who has made a Congressional legislation to make New Delhi a strategic defense partner of Washington on a permanent basis, has said. Democratic Senator Mark Warner, Chairman of Senate Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, in an interaction with members of the US India Security Council said China had emerged as a major problem for the US companies doing businesses in that country and intellectual theft was a big concern. Warner, who is also co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, said he has sponsored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) act to make India a strategic defense partner on a permanent basis. Expressing grave concerns over Chinese surveillance on every aspect of the organisations doing business with Beijing, Warner said the US will work with countries like India, Japan, and South Korea to tackle the threat from China. Eminent Indian-American Ramesh Kapur, from the US India Security Council, said that in view of the present scenario, it would make better sense to shift all manufacturing back to America. He said in areas where there were issues of cost due to labour and other issues, it would make sense to shift the manufacturing to India for all US companies which are at present in China. Bharat Barai, from Chicago, said that many medium and small-scale electronic companies in the US and India have suffered due to unfair trade practices of China. He also offered the Senator his services in arranging a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a statement. Koty Krishna said he did a lot of business with China earlier and was always worried about getting back his money and is glad that he has moved out of that country. Krishna Srinivasa said it was time for the US and India to forge a long-lasting defense partnership that will sustain for at least 40-50 years and requested the senator to pursue the defense partnership with his friends in the senate like Senator Robert Menendez and others. Nar Koppula told Senator Warner that the Indian American Community has always helped him in his elections and will continue to do so and asked him to be favourable to a stronger US-India partnership. Rajendar Dichpally expressed concerns over the Chinese aggression against India and warned that Beijing's attitude will not be limited to the South Asian and Pacific regions, asserting that it will expand its ambitions and will be a threat to US in the future due to its vast ambitions. "All the members agreed that it is absolutely necessary to rein in China with partnerships with other friendly countries," said the statement issued by US India Security Council.

US will work with India, Japan and S Korea to tackle threat from China: Senator Warner 

Indian American and Republican leader Nikki Haley has said that US President Donald Trump sees China as a threat and said that she would work very hard to get him re-elected in the November elections.

Addressing the concluding session of the two-day India Ideas Summit Haley said that “I think that (security threat from China) will be one factor (in the elections). I think that you have president Trump who very much sees China as a threat,.” 
 
Former US&nbsp;Ambassador to the UN &amp; Former Governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley said, "The relationship between PM Modi and President Trump has strengthened, and it's important that we continue to take that relationship forward.

The India Ideas Summit was also addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

“I think that you have (Democratic nominee) Joe Biden, who has said that China is not the problem and who was against the travel ban to China and who has not shown, in any of his time that he was in the Obama administration, as realizing the threat that China had. So, I think it will be one of the factors that's going to be very important in this next election,” she said.

“I can tell you right now, I'm going to be campaigning and working very hard for president Trump. I think where we have come on foreign policy, where we saw the economy prior to COVID is very strong. I believe in the policies that he's put forward and I'll be campaigning hard for him and look forward to a win by president Trump in November,” she said.

“That was warranted. They are natural allies. India and the United States are a lot of the same values, the same work ethic, the same family values. It's important that we just continue to take that relationship forward,” she said.

“Everyone is going to start to look at India as they're looking at Vietnam and other places to see how they can get less dependent on China," she said.

“If India can make some concessions in order to bring all of this trade in, I think that there will be massive amounts, not just from the United States, but from other countries that really lean into India to try and do those things,” Haley said. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

Indian American and Republican leader Nikki Haley has said that US President Donald Trump sees China as a threat and said that she would work very hard to get him re-elected in the November elections.

Indian American and Republican leader Nikki Haley has said that US President Donald Trump sees China as a threat and said that she would work very hard to get him re-elected in the November elections. Addressing the concluding session of the two-day India Ideas Summit Haley said that “I think that (security threat from China) will be one factor (in the elections). I think that you have president Trump who very much sees China as a threat,.” Former US Ambassador to the UN & Former Governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley said, "The relationship between PM Modi and President Trump has strengthened, and it's important that we continue to take that relationship forward. The India Ideas Summit was also addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. “I think that you have (Democratic nominee) Joe Biden, who has said that China is not the problem and who was against the travel ban to China and who has not shown, in any of his time that he was in the Obama administration, as realizing the threat that China had. So, I think it will be one of the factors that's going to be very important in this next election,” she said. “I can tell you right now, I'm going to be campaigning and working very hard for president Trump. I think where we have come on foreign policy, where we saw the economy prior to COVID is very strong. I believe in the policies that he's put forward and I'll be campaigning hard for him and look forward to a win by president Trump in November,” she said. “That was warranted. They are natural allies. India and the United States are a lot of the same values, the same work ethic, the same family values. It's important that we just continue to take that relationship forward,” she said. “Everyone is going to start to look at India as they're looking at Vietnam and other places to see how they can get less dependent on China," she said. “If India can make some concessions in order to bring all of this trade in, I think that there will be massive amounts, not just from the United States, but from other countries that really lean into India to try and do those things,” Haley said. (With inputs from PTI)

Trump sees China as a threat and ties between US-India strengthened, says Nikki Haley

Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 6,472 fresh COVID infections, the highest single day spike, with the tally inching towards two lakh cases while death toll touched 3,232 with 88 fatalities, the government said.

More than three fourths of the fresh cases were from districts other than Chennai, which continued to clock lower numbers, and of the dead, 77 had co-morbidities and 11 none, a health department bulletin said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-becomes-7th-worst-hit-by-death-toll-overtakes-spain-315262">Also read:&nbsp;India becomes 7th-worst-hit by death toll, overtakes Spain</a>

A 24-year old woman, and three men, aged 26, 35 and 94 were among the fresh victims of the deadly virus.

Tamil Nadu's COVID tally and Chennai's share of it inched towards two lakh and one lakh mark respectively.

The state's case count stood at 1,92,964 while that of Chennai touched 90,900, including 1,336 reported on Thursday.

As many as 5,210 patients were discharged in a single day, the highest so far, and the cumulative recoveries and active cases stood at 1,36,793 and 52,939 respectively.

Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 6,472 fresh COVID infections, the highest single day spike, with the tally inching towards two lakh cases while death toll touched 3,232 with 88 fatalities, the government said.

Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 6,472 fresh COVID infections, the highest single day spike, with the tally inching towards two lakh cases while death toll touched 3,232 with 88 fatalities, the government said. More than three fourths of the fresh cases were from districts other than Chennai, which continued to clock lower numbers, and of the dead, 77 had co-morbidities and 11 none, a health department bulletin said. Also read: India becomes 7th-worst-hit by death toll, overtakes Spain A 24-year old woman, and three men, aged 26, 35 and 94 were among the fresh victims of the deadly virus. Tamil Nadu's COVID tally and Chennai's share of it inched towards two lakh and one lakh mark respectively. The state's case count stood at 1,92,964 while that of Chennai touched 90,900, including 1,336 reported on Thursday. As many as 5,210 patients were discharged in a single day, the highest so far, and the cumulative recoveries and active cases stood at 1,36,793 and 52,939 respectively.

Tamil Nadu sees highest spike of 6,472 cases, tally inches towards 2 lakh mark

Mumbai, one of the worst hit cities in terms of rising cases, is deploying ‘smart helmets’ to combat the spread of the disease

Your Story: Mumbai receive high-tech 'Smart helmets' to combat COVID-19

An estimated 2.4 million children have been affected by the recent floods in India, the UNICEF said on Thursday, calling for immediate support, more resources and innovative programmes to address the challenges faced.

In a statement, UNICEF said though flooding at this period of the year is common, this widespread scale of floods during mid-July is unusual.

"In India, over 6 million people across Bihar, Assam, Odisha, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have been affected by the floods, including an estimated 2.4 million children," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bts-army-gather-more-than-8000-for-assam-flood-relief-funds-314296">Also read| BTS 'Army' gather more than $8,000 for Assam flood relief funds</a>

UNICEF said it is working with the government and partners to respond quickly and effectively.

It said it is also supporting the Assam government to implement the COVID-19 adapted relief camp management guidelines and child friendly spaces in select districts, in addition to its focused support for maternal and child health service continuity and COVID-19 response in many states, the statement said.

Weeks of torrential monsoon rains, widespread flooding and deadly landslides in Bangladesh, India and Nepal have affected millions of children and families, UNICEF said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/assam-floods-over-45000-people-displaced-89-killed-2-million-people-affected-315420">Also watch|&nbsp;Assam Floods: Over 45,000+ people displaced, 89 killed, 2 Million people affected</a>

"Even for a region that is all-too-familiar with the devastating impact of extreme weather, the recent heavy monsoon rains, rising floods and continued landslides are creating a perfect storm for children and families affected," said Jean Gough, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia.

"The COVID-19 pandemic and containment and prevention measures add an additional complication to the mix, as COVID-19 cases are accelerating in some of the affected areas," she added.

Gough said the fall-out from the COVID-19 pandemic is being compounded by climate change and extreme weather events and are arguably the biggest issues affecting children in South Asia right now.

Immediate support, more resources and innovative programmes are urgently needed to address the challenges that these threats represent to the region's children, she said.

An estimated 2.4 million children have been affected by the recent floods in India, the UNICEF said on Thursday, calling for immediate support, more resources and innovative programmes to address the challenges faced.

An estimated 2.4 million children have been affected by the recent floods in India, the UNICEF said on Thursday, calling for immediate support, more resources and innovative programmes to address the challenges faced. In a statement, UNICEF said though flooding at this period of the year is common, this widespread scale of floods during mid-July is unusual. "In India, over 6 million people across Bihar, Assam, Odisha, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have been affected by the floods, including an estimated 2.4 million children," it said. Also read| BTS 'Army' gather more than $8,000 for Assam flood relief funds UNICEF said it is working with the government and partners to respond quickly and effectively. It said it is also supporting the Assam government to implement the COVID-19 adapted relief camp management guidelines and child friendly spaces in select districts, in addition to its focused support for maternal and child health service continuity and COVID-19 response in many states, the statement said. Weeks of torrential monsoon rains, widespread flooding and deadly landslides in Bangladesh, India and Nepal have affected millions of children and families, UNICEF said. Also watch| Assam Floods: Over 45,000+ people displaced, 89 killed, 2 Million people affected "Even for a region that is all-too-familiar with the devastating impact of extreme weather, the recent heavy monsoon rains, rising floods and continued landslides are creating a perfect storm for children and families affected," said Jean Gough, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia. "The COVID-19 pandemic and containment and prevention measures add an additional complication to the mix, as COVID-19 cases are accelerating in some of the affected areas," she added. Gough said the fall-out from the COVID-19 pandemic is being compounded by climate change and extreme weather events and are arguably the biggest issues affecting children in South Asia right now. Immediate support, more resources and innovative programmes are urgently needed to address the challenges that these threats represent to the region's children, she said.

2.4 million children affected by recent floods in India: UNICEF

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region.

He made these remarks at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Manipur Water Supply project via a video link.

While blockades have become a part of history in Manipur, the era of decades of violence has ceased in Assam, the prime minister said in his address.

In Tripura and Mizoram too, youngsters have abandoned the path of violence and the Bru-Reang refugees are moving towards a better life, he added.

The prime minister noted that the government is making constant efforts to improve connectivity in the northeast, be it highways, laying of rail tracks or upgrading airports.

The foundation stone-laying programme, he said, is an example of the fact that even during the crisis triggered by the coronavirus, the country has not stopped working.

Till the time a vaccine is developed, everyone has to vigorously fight against the virus and the development works should also be carried forward with full force, Modi said.

Referring to the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" (self-reliant India campaign), the prime minister said clusters are being developed for value addition and marketing of local products, where all facilities will be given to agro startups and other industries.

He said the northeast has the potential to replace the country's bamboo import with local production.

There is a huge demand for incense sticks in the country, but for this, India imports bamboo worth crores of rupees every year, the prime minister lamented.

A lot of work is being done to change this situation, he pointed out.

Modi said a huge investment is being made under the National Bamboo Mission, which will benefit youngsters in the northeast and startups.

Many institutes are being set up for health, education, skill development and startups, he added. With the setting up of a sports university and world-class stadia, Manipur is becoming a major hub for the country's sports talent, Modi observed.

Speaking on the water supply project, he said it is a big day for lakhs of people of Manipur, including the residents of its capital Imphal, as it will reduce their water problems.

The women will especially benefit as they will not have to travel for kilometres to fetch clean water, the prime minister said.

Noting that a better life is directly linked to connectivity, he said the connectivity of the northeast is essential for a secure, sure and self-reliant India.

Connectivity would give a fillip to India's Act East Policy and also provide a gateway to the country's travel and tourism sector, Modi said.

The prime minister referred to the more than 20 national waterways, including those in the northeast, which would provide a seamless connectivity.

He said the northeast represents the country's cultural diversity and strength, while pointing out that the region has a great tourism potential, which still remains unexplored.

Even as the country is fighting relentlessly against COVID-19, eastern and northeastern India also had to face the dual challenge of heavy rains and floods, which cost several lives and rendered many homeless, the prime minister said, adding that the Manipur government took all the necessary measures during the nationwide lockdown and made special arrangements for the return of migrants.

He said about 25 lakh poor people in Manipur have received free foodgrains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Similarly, more than 1.5 lakh women in the state were given free gas cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme, he added.

Referring to the water project, Modi said it has been designed keeping in mind the needs of the next 20-22 years, adding that lakhs of people will get access to clean drinking water while thousands will get employment.

He said water connections are being provided to about one lakh households in the country every day.

"Every day, we are removing such a big worry of water from the lives of one lakh mothers and sisters," he said.

The externally-funded Manipur Water Supply project was designed to provide freshwater household tap connections (FHTCs) to the remaining households in the Greater Imphal planning area and 1,731 rural habitations, covering 2,80,756 households in all 16 districts of the state.

The project outlay is Rs 3054.58 crore, with a loan component funded by the New Development Bank.

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region.

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region. He made these remarks at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Manipur Water Supply project via a video link. While blockades have become a part of history in Manipur, the era of decades of violence has ceased in Assam, the prime minister said in his address. In Tripura and Mizoram too, youngsters have abandoned the path of violence and the Bru-Reang refugees are moving towards a better life, he added. The prime minister noted that the government is making constant efforts to improve connectivity in the northeast, be it highways, laying of rail tracks or upgrading airports. The foundation stone-laying programme, he said, is an example of the fact that even during the crisis triggered by the coronavirus, the country has not stopped working. Till the time a vaccine is developed, everyone has to vigorously fight against the virus and the development works should also be carried forward with full force, Modi said. Referring to the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" (self-reliant India campaign), the prime minister said clusters are being developed for value addition and marketing of local products, where all facilities will be given to agro startups and other industries. He said the northeast has the potential to replace the country's bamboo import with local production. There is a huge demand for incense sticks in the country, but for this, India imports bamboo worth crores of rupees every year, the prime minister lamented. A lot of work is being done to change this situation, he pointed out. Modi said a huge investment is being made under the National Bamboo Mission, which will benefit youngsters in the northeast and startups. Many institutes are being set up for health, education, skill development and startups, he added. With the setting up of a sports university and world-class stadia, Manipur is becoming a major hub for the country's sports talent, Modi observed. Speaking on the water supply project, he said it is a big day for lakhs of people of Manipur, including the residents of its capital Imphal, as it will reduce their water problems. The women will especially benefit as they will not have to travel for kilometres to fetch clean water, the prime minister said. Noting that a better life is directly linked to connectivity, he said the connectivity of the northeast is essential for a secure, sure and self-reliant India. Connectivity would give a fillip to India's Act East Policy and also provide a gateway to the country's travel and tourism sector, Modi said. The prime minister referred to the more than 20 national waterways, including those in the northeast, which would provide a seamless connectivity. He said the northeast represents the country's cultural diversity and strength, while pointing out that the region has a great tourism potential, which still remains unexplored. Even as the country is fighting relentlessly against COVID-19, eastern and northeastern India also had to face the dual challenge of heavy rains and floods, which cost several lives and rendered many homeless, the prime minister said, adding that the Manipur government took all the necessary measures during the nationwide lockdown and made special arrangements for the return of migrants. He said about 25 lakh poor people in Manipur have received free foodgrains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Similarly, more than 1.5 lakh women in the state were given free gas cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme, he added. Referring to the water project, Modi said it has been designed keeping in mind the needs of the next 20-22 years, adding that lakhs of people will get access to clean drinking water while thousands will get employment. He said water connections are being provided to about one lakh households in the country every day. "Every day, we are removing such a big worry of water from the lives of one lakh mothers and sisters," he said. The externally-funded Manipur Water Supply project was designed to provide freshwater household tap connections (FHTCs) to the remaining households in the Greater Imphal planning area and 1,731 rural habitations, covering 2,80,756 households in all 16 districts of the state. The project outlay is Rs 3054.58 crore, with a loan component funded by the New Development Bank.

Connectivity to northeast will give fillip to India's Act East policy: Modi

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2.4 million children affected by recent floods in India: UNICEF

Connectivity to northeast will give fillip to India's Act East policy: Modi