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The Indian Army has released a statement on the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Both sides were engaged in discussions to de-escalate the situation in Ladakh. Watch report.

Indian Army: Phase 1 of de-escalation reviewed, Both sides committed to disengagement

India has yet again recorded its highest daily surge in the COVID-19 cases. More than 32,000 people have contracted coronavirus in the last 24-hours.

India's surge in COVID-19 cases: 32,695 cases reported in last 24-hours

Indian Railways will be moving towards 100% electrification in the next three and half years and will be owning world’s first ‘clean railways’, said Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday.

"Railways will move to 100 per cent electrification in the next 3.5 years and 100 per cent Net Zero operator in the next 9-10 years. By 2030, each one of us will be a proud citizen, owning the world's first large Clean Railways," said Goyal at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event.

"Prime Minister has promoted--One Sun, One World, One Grid. India is taking the lead role in the International Renewable Community. Transitioning into the international solar grid is something we are all working on. With PM-KUSUM Yojana we are bringing farmers too in renewable energy fold," he added.

He added that the Prime Minister has said that India has become a model for the world when the transition to renewable energy is mentioned. Today, every willing citizen has access to power at affordable prices.

"We have invested deeply in the transmission sector for widespread availability of sector. I do hope the states support us to make power 24x7 available at affordable prices," said Goyal.

"Renewable energy is the way forward. Dependency on fossil fuel is not viable. Along with environmental benefits, renewable energy is good for the nation economically," he added.

(With inputs from ANI)

Indian Railways will be moving towards 100% electrification in the next three and half years and will be owning world’s first ‘clean railways’, said Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday.

Indian Railways will be moving towards 100% electrification in the next three and half years and will be owning world’s first ‘clean railways’, said Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal on Thursday. "Railways will move to 100 per cent electrification in the next 3.5 years and 100 per cent Net Zero operator in the next 9-10 years. By 2030, each one of us will be a proud citizen, owning the world's first large Clean Railways," said Goyal at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event. "Prime Minister has promoted--One Sun, One World, One Grid. India is taking the lead role in the International Renewable Community. Transitioning into the international solar grid is something we are all working on. With PM-KUSUM Yojana we are bringing farmers too in renewable energy fold," he added. He added that the Prime Minister has said that India has become a model for the world when the transition to renewable energy is mentioned. Today, every willing citizen has access to power at affordable prices. "We have invested deeply in the transmission sector for widespread availability of sector. I do hope the states support us to make power 24x7 available at affordable prices," said Goyal. "Renewable energy is the way forward. Dependency on fossil fuel is not viable. Along with environmental benefits, renewable energy is good for the nation economically," he added. (With inputs from ANI)

100% electrification in Railways in next 3.5 years, says Piyush Goyal

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates.

A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Speaking in a documentary - COVID-19: India's War against the Virus - to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Bill Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density.

Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there - with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere - starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest."

He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases."

Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Mr Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic."

Mr Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going."

Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India''s borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done.

"It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density - and so that - drives the spread. You have people moving around."

He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need."

Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation."

"We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past."

The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Bill Gates said. 
&nbsp;

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates.

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates. A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Speaking in a documentary - COVID-19: India's War against the Virus - to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Bill Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density. Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there - with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere - starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest." He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases." Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Mr Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic." Mr Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going." Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India''s borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done. "It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density - and so that - drives the spread. You have people moving around." He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need." Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation." "We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past." The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Bill Gates said.

India capable of producing Covid-19 vaccines for entire world: Bill Gates

Despite accusing senior party leader Sachin Pilot of colluding with the BJP, the Congress has still kept its doors open for him and other rebel MLAs and they may be given another chance to return to the party fold. Sources stated that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is behind the softening of stance on rebels and he is understood to have instructed the party leaders to give Pilot another chance.

According to a Congress national leader in Jaipur, the party's doors are still open for Sachin Pilot because Rahul Gandhi has instructed that despite all the provocation, he should be given another chance. "Pilot should be given one more chance to join the family," he said.

Sources told ANI that Ahmed Patel, a leader very close to Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi, is in contact with the former Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan and is talking to him.

It was earlier believed that Rahul's had taken a tough stance on Pilot's rebellion. However, now according to the latest development, Rahul is trying to create an atmosphere of respectful return of Sachin.

According to sources, the directive from Rahul Gandhi came after the statement of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday afternoon, in which Gehlot directly accused Pilot of being involved in the conspiracy to topple the government with the BJP and said that he has a proof regarding it.

Soon after this statement, Rahul Gandhi instructed the national leaders stationed in Jaipur that Pilot should be given a chance to return. After which, the national media in-charge Randeep Surjewala appealed through the media that Sachin Pilot should return to Jaipur with all his MLAs.

As a show of good faith, state NSUI President who was close to Pilot and was also removed has been given another chance on the instruction of Rahul Gandhi.

Congress had earlier called a legislature party meeting twice in Jaipur, which was boycotted by the MLAs of Sachin Pilot camp. Due to the rebellion, the post of Deputy Chief Minister and state president of Congress was taken away from Pilot. While action has been taken against his supporters as well and State Youth Congress head, Sewa Dal Chief who are MLAs have also been removed.

Eighteen Congress MLAs, along with Pilot, have been issued a show-cause notice for not attending the CLP meeting. Though Pilot has not returned to Jaipur from New Delhi, his demeanour seems to have become softer, party sources believe.

It is also important to note that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is in touch with Pilot. She has spoken to him several times and is pushing for his return to Jaipur. Several senior party leaders including Former Union Minister Jitin Prasad, Priya Dutt, Shashi Tharoor tweeted and pushed that talks should be initiated with Pilot.

The view was also lent support by veteran Congress leader Margaret Alva, who tweeted, "Differences are not anti-party. They have to be sorted out and compromises worked out. We have done it over the years." Her tweet was later endorsed by former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh.

Party sources stated that in case Pilot returns home unconditionally and proclaims his support to the Gehlot government, after a few months, he can be given some big responsibility in the party.

However, if Pilot remains adamant then the Congress wants to take away the opportunity from him to garner sympathy by keeping their doors open for him to rejoin. That is why Congress is adopting a dual strategy, sources stated.

Congress leaders have pointed out that the rebel camp has full opportunity to return home till the last date and for answering the show cause notice issued by the Speaker.

While the Congress leadership is backing Ashok Gehlot, it also does not wants to lose Pilot. Due to Pilot's rebellion, top leadership is facing criticism after Ashok Tanwar, Pradyut Manikya, Himanta Biswa Sarma and Jyotiraditya Scindia Congress who has been losing young leaders who were supposed to be members of team Rahul Gandhi.

Despite accusing senior party leader Sachin Pilot of colluding with the BJP, the Congress has still kept its doors open for him and other rebel MLAs and they may be given another chance to return to the party fold.

Despite accusing senior party leader Sachin Pilot of colluding with the BJP, the Congress has still kept its doors open for him and other rebel MLAs and they may be given another chance to return to the party fold. Sources stated that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is behind the softening of stance on rebels and he is understood to have instructed the party leaders to give Pilot another chance. According to a Congress national leader in Jaipur, the party's doors are still open for Sachin Pilot because Rahul Gandhi has instructed that despite all the provocation, he should be given another chance. "Pilot should be given one more chance to join the family," he said. Sources told ANI that Ahmed Patel, a leader very close to Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi, is in contact with the former Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan and is talking to him. It was earlier believed that Rahul's had taken a tough stance on Pilot's rebellion. However, now according to the latest development, Rahul is trying to create an atmosphere of respectful return of Sachin. According to sources, the directive from Rahul Gandhi came after the statement of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday afternoon, in which Gehlot directly accused Pilot of being involved in the conspiracy to topple the government with the BJP and said that he has a proof regarding it. Soon after this statement, Rahul Gandhi instructed the national leaders stationed in Jaipur that Pilot should be given a chance to return. After which, the national media in-charge Randeep Surjewala appealed through the media that Sachin Pilot should return to Jaipur with all his MLAs. As a show of good faith, state NSUI President who was close to Pilot and was also removed has been given another chance on the instruction of Rahul Gandhi. Congress had earlier called a legislature party meeting twice in Jaipur, which was boycotted by the MLAs of Sachin Pilot camp. Due to the rebellion, the post of Deputy Chief Minister and state president of Congress was taken away from Pilot. While action has been taken against his supporters as well and State Youth Congress head, Sewa Dal Chief who are MLAs have also been removed. Eighteen Congress MLAs, along with Pilot, have been issued a show-cause notice for not attending the CLP meeting. Though Pilot has not returned to Jaipur from New Delhi, his demeanour seems to have become softer, party sources believe. It is also important to note that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is in touch with Pilot. She has spoken to him several times and is pushing for his return to Jaipur. Several senior party leaders including Former Union Minister Jitin Prasad, Priya Dutt, Shashi Tharoor tweeted and pushed that talks should be initiated with Pilot. The view was also lent support by veteran Congress leader Margaret Alva, who tweeted, "Differences are not anti-party. They have to be sorted out and compromises worked out. We have done it over the years." Her tweet was later endorsed by former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh. Party sources stated that in case Pilot returns home unconditionally and proclaims his support to the Gehlot government, after a few months, he can be given some big responsibility in the party. However, if Pilot remains adamant then the Congress wants to take away the opportunity from him to garner sympathy by keeping their doors open for him to rejoin. That is why Congress is adopting a dual strategy, sources stated. Congress leaders have pointed out that the rebel camp has full opportunity to return home till the last date and for answering the show cause notice issued by the Speaker. While the Congress leadership is backing Ashok Gehlot, it also does not wants to lose Pilot. Due to Pilot's rebellion, top leadership is facing criticism after Ashok Tanwar, Pradyut Manikya, Himanta Biswa Sarma and Jyotiraditya Scindia Congress who has been losing young leaders who were supposed to be members of team Rahul Gandhi.

Rajasthan crisis: Congress ready to give Sachin Pilot another chance after Rahul Gandhi intervention

Indian Army on Thursday issued a statement saying that the core commanders of India and China reviewed the progress of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement during the meet at Chushul in eastern Ladakh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-aggressive-actions-against-india-give-insight-into-how-cpc-thinking-theses-days-us-nsa-313381">Also Read:&nbsp;China's aggressive actions against India give insight into how CPC thinking theses days, says US NSA</a>

“India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the prevailing situation along the LAC.Commanders from PLA &amp; Indian Army held a meeting at Chushul, on Indian side, for the fourth round of talks, on July 14 2020,” Army said in a statement. 
 
The meeting between Corps commander-level officers including Lt Gen Harinder Singh lasted for close to 15 hours. It started on July 14 at 11:30 am and ended at 2 am on July 15, the sources said. 
 
They said both sides will now monitor further disengagement by troops and verify the development in the next few days around July 21-22.

According to the statement the engagement was consistent with the consensus reached between the Special Representatives of India and China earlier, on July 05, to discuss complete disengagement.The Senior Commanders reviewed the progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement. &nbsp;

“The two sides remain committed to the objective of complete disengagement. This process is intricate and requires constant verification. They are taking it forward through regular meetings at diplomatic and military level.” Colonel Aman Anand, Ministry of Defence Spokesperson.

Indian Army on Thursday issued a statement saying that the core commanders of India and China reviewed the progress of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement during the meet at Chushul in eastern Ladakh.

Indian Army on Thursday issued a statement saying that the core commanders of India and China reviewed the progress of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement during the meet at Chushul in eastern Ladakh. Also Read: China's aggressive actions against India give insight into how CPC thinking theses days, says US NSA “India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the prevailing situation along the LAC.Commanders from PLA & Indian Army held a meeting at Chushul, on Indian side, for the fourth round of talks, on July 14 2020,” Army said in a statement. The meeting between Corps commander-level officers including Lt Gen Harinder Singh lasted for close to 15 hours. It started on July 14 at 11:30 am and ended at 2 am on July 15, the sources said. They said both sides will now monitor further disengagement by troops and verify the development in the next few days around July 21-22. According to the statement the engagement was consistent with the consensus reached between the Special Representatives of India and China earlier, on July 05, to discuss complete disengagement.The Senior Commanders reviewed the progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement. “The two sides remain committed to the objective of complete disengagement. This process is intricate and requires constant verification. They are taking it forward through regular meetings at diplomatic and military level.” Colonel Aman Anand, Ministry of Defence Spokesperson.

Ladakh standoff: Discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement, says Indian army

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates.

A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Speaking in a documentary -- COVID-19: India's War Against The Virus -- to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density.

Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there -- with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere-- starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest."

He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases."

Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic."

Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going".

Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India's borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done.

?It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density-- and so that-- drives the spread. You have people moving around."

He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need."

Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation.

"We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past."

The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Gates said.&nbsp;

India's pharmaceutical industry will be able to produce COVID-19 vaccines not just for the country but also for the entire world, according to Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates. A lot of "very important things have been done" in India and its pharma industry is doing work "to help make the coronavirus vaccine building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases", said the Co-Chair and Trustee of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Speaking in a documentary -- COVID-19: India's War Against The Virus -- to be premiered on Discovery Plus this (Thursday) evening, Gates said India also faces a huge challenge due to the health crisis because of its gigantic size and urban centres with a lot of population density. Commenting on the strength of India's pharma industry, he said, "India has a lot of capacity there -- with the drug and vaccine companies that are huge suppliers to the entire world. You know, more vaccines are made in India than anywhere-- starting with Serum Institute, that's the largest." He further said, "But (there are) also Bio E, Bharat (Biotech), many others. They are doing work to help make the coronavirus vaccine, building on other great capacities that they have used for other diseases." Stating that India joined Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a group working on a global basis to build vaccines platforms, Gates said, "I am excited that the pharmaceutical industry there will be able to produce not just for India but also for the entire world. (This is) What we need to reduce the deaths and make sure we are immune, which is how we end the epidemic." Gates said Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also a "partner with the government, particularly with the department of biotechnology, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the office of the principal scientific advisor provide advice and help about getting these tools going". Commenting on the deadly virus breaching India's borders in the documentary which was shot extensively during the period of lockdown, he said, "India is still at the beginning of this, but there's a lot of very important things have been done. ?It's a huge challenge with India because you've got a gigantic country. You've got your urban centers with a lot of density-- and so that-- drives the spread. You have people moving around." He, however, added: "Yet people are stepping up... Looking at how we reduce the spread while trying not to reduce food availability, equipment that people need." Highlighting Gates foundation's role, he said it has "worked for the Indian government on health issues like introducing new vaccines over the last decade; and so when COVID-19 came along, we stepped in and said you know where are the gaps, we have been funding work on detection and isolation. "We have been particularly active in UP and Bihar where we have done health delivery in the past." The foundation is also working with the department of personnel and training to take their online training platforms and "are now using that guidance to help their frontline health workers", Gates said.

Indian pharma industry capable of producing COVID-19 vaccines for entire world: Bill Gates

India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the prevailing situation along the LAC.

Commanders from PLA and&nbsp;Indian Army held a meeting at Chushul, on Indian side, for the fourth round of talks, on 14 July to discuss&nbsp;further steps to ensure complete disengagement, according to an official statement give by the Indian Army.

''Senior Commanders had reviewed the&nbsp;progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement during the India China Military talks of 14th July.''

''The two sides remain committed to the objective of complete disengagement. This process is intricate and requires constant verification. They are taking it forward through regular meetings at diplomatic and military level.''it added.

The Senior Commanders reviewed the progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement. &nbsp;

The engagement was ''consistent'' and&nbsp;a general consensus was reached between the Special Representatives of India and China who met earlier&nbsp;on&nbsp;July 5 as well.

India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the prevailing situation along the LAC. Commanders from PLA and Indian Army held a meeting at Chushul, on Indian side, for the fourth round of talks, on 14 July to discuss further steps to ensure complete disengagement, according to an official statement give by the Indian Army.

India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the prevailing situation along the LAC. Commanders from PLA and Indian Army held a meeting at Chushul, on Indian side, for the fourth round of talks, on 14 July to discuss further steps to ensure complete disengagement, according to an official statement give by the Indian Army. ''Senior Commanders had reviewed the progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement during the India China Military talks of 14th July.'' ''The two sides remain committed to the objective of complete disengagement. This process is intricate and requires constant verification. They are taking it forward through regular meetings at diplomatic and military level.''it added. The Senior Commanders reviewed the progress on implementation of the first phase of disengagement and discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement. The engagement was ''consistent'' and a general consensus was reached between the Special Representatives of India and China who met earlier on July 5 as well.

India-China standoff: Discussed further steps to ensure complete disengagement says Indian army

A day after he was sacked from the Deputy Chief Minister and Pradesh Congress Committee president posts, Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Wednesday has said that he is not joining BJP.

"I am not joining BJP. Some leaders in Rajasthan trying to fuel speculation that I am joining BJP but I am not doing so," he said.

Former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and two of his loyalists were sacked from the Rajasthan Cabinet on Tuesday.

The decision to remove Pilot was taken after the conclusion of Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meet at the Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur, Rajasthan earlier today.

In place of Pilot, Rajasthan's Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasra has been named as the new PCC chief.

The Rajasthan Congress is in turmoil over the past few days.&nbsp;While Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has blamed the BJP for attempting to destabilise the State government by poaching MLAs, Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot has been camping in Delhi. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after he was sacked from the Deputy Chief Minister and Pradesh Congress Committee president posts, Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Wednesday has said that he is not joining BJP.

A day after he was sacked from the Deputy Chief Minister and Pradesh Congress Committee president posts, Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Wednesday has said that he is not joining BJP. "I am not joining BJP. Some leaders in Rajasthan trying to fuel speculation that I am joining BJP but I am not doing so," he said. Former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot and two of his loyalists were sacked from the Rajasthan Cabinet on Tuesday. The decision to remove Pilot was taken after the conclusion of Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meet at the Fairmont Hotel in Jaipur, Rajasthan earlier today. In place of Pilot, Rajasthan's Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasra has been named as the new PCC chief. The Rajasthan Congress is in turmoil over the past few days. While Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has blamed the BJP for attempting to destabilise the State government by poaching MLAs, Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot has been camping in Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

I am not joining BJP: Sachin Pilot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday.

The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced&nbsp;in 2015.

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In his address, Modi said ''People ask me that in these times when businesses &amp; markets are changing so fast how to stay relevant. This question is even more important during this COVID-19 pandemic. Mantra to be relevant is to skill, reskill&nbsp;and upskill.''

''I extend my best wishes to youngsters on World Youth Skill Day today. During this time of #CoronaPandemic, along with work culture, the nature of the job has also changed and the ever-changing new technology has also been affected, but youth is gaining new skills in the changing times,'' he added.

The conclave was&nbsp;organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, according to an official statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-dilution-in-india-iran-commitment-to-jointly-develop-chabahar-zahedan-rail-project-313394" hreflang="en">No dilution in India-Iran commitment to develop Chabahar-Zahedan rail project</a>

Skill India is an initiative of the Centre which was launched to empower the youth with skills to help them get jobs and also give more productive in their work environment.

It offers courses in several sectors that are aligned to the standards recognised by both, the industry and the government under the National Skill Qualification Framework.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday. The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced in 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday. The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced in 2015. Also read: India set to buy Israeli Heron drone, Spike anti-tank missiles: Report In his address, Modi said ''People ask me that in these times when businesses & markets are changing so fast how to stay relevant. This question is even more important during this COVID-19 pandemic. Mantra to be relevant is to skill, reskill and upskill.'' ''I extend my best wishes to youngsters on World Youth Skill Day today. During this time of #CoronaPandemic, along with work culture, the nature of the job has also changed and the ever-changing new technology has also been affected, but youth is gaining new skills in the changing times,'' he added. The conclave was organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, according to an official statement. Also read: No dilution in India-Iran commitment to develop Chabahar-Zahedan rail project Skill India is an initiative of the Centre which was launched to empower the youth with skills to help them get jobs and also give more productive in their work environment. It offers courses in several sectors that are aligned to the standards recognised by both, the industry and the government under the National Skill Qualification Framework.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes Indian youngsters on World Youth Skills Day

A third of Bangladesh is underwater after some of the heaviest rains in a decade. At least 1.5 million people are affected in this heavy flood. Bangladesh's Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre says, this is going to be the worst flood in a decade

Over 1.5 million people are affected in Bangladesh Flood, Red Alert in all rivers

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living. But there are also a few who look for opportunity in adversity. It was the mad-rush amongst the public to hoard on groceries and other essentials during different phases on India’s lockdown, that sparked an idea in 40-year old Anand’s mind. “Why not temporarily set-up a grocery shop? With more people staying indoors, isn’t the demand going to spike ?” were some of the film director’s thoughts.

Anand who has directed a handful of budget films over a decade, has one film ready for release and another in the final stages of shooting, but then the lockdown was imposed. This meant staying idle at home and not contributing to his family. “For a week it felt nice to be at home, but after a point I couldn’t remain idle. I was witnessing the high demand for essentials and the long queues at shops. That’s what led to the initial spark” Anand told WION as he attended to customers at his store.&nbsp;

Despite having nil experience in setting up or running a store, Anand took the decision to invest a small sum and get started with his new project. Observing the crowded shops and the goods they sold provided him considerable insights. Thats when he began to scout for a vacant commercial space near his residence.&nbsp;

The search led him to a place that was 2kms away from his residence. The vacant space happened to be owned by Anand’s childhood friend. As he was about to get started, the reactions from his known circles were expressing apprehension and disapproval. “While the friend who rented me the place was in support, most of my colleagues from the cinema industry weren’t happy with my decision. But I wanted to go ahead as it would fetch some income and I can help people” Anand recalls about the time he opened the store in mid-June.&nbsp;

Now, nearly a month after having started the store, Anand says that the going has been good, even quite busy. “I put up a board outside my shop about the price of certain essentials, I also offer a small discount of certain types of pulses and rice varieties. This keeps the crowd coming and there's also word-of-mouth publicity via friends and regular customers. Today there are 5 people working in the store with me” Anand says gladly.

Given how the Covid-19 pandemic has thrown life out of gear for many like him, Anand hopes that people seriously consider an alternative means of earning a living. “At least for 6 months to a year, we must think of doing something else, normalcy seems quite far. In my case I had some savings to fall back on, but surely each one can explore a way out” he says.&nbsp;

Recalling the five low-budget films he’s done so far and the ones pending for release, Anand feels that OTT platforms and online releases are the way ahead. “For small filmmakers like us, getting an OTT release means a lot. Even the platforms don’t have to spend much to buy our films when compared to that of big names” he says, hoping that his upcoming film ‘Naanum Pei Dhaan’ and the one in the pipeline ‘Thunindhu Sei' find takers.

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living.

The film industry is among the worst hit after the Covid-19 pandemic struck India, with many associated with the field struggling without an alternative means of earning a living. But there are also a few who look for opportunity in adversity. It was the mad-rush amongst the public to hoard on groceries and other essentials during different phases on India’s lockdown, that sparked an idea in 40-year old Anand’s mind. “Why not temporarily set-up a grocery shop? With more people staying indoors, isn’t the demand going to spike ?” were some of the film director’s thoughts. Anand who has directed a handful of budget films over a decade, has one film ready for release and another in the final stages of shooting, but then the lockdown was imposed. This meant staying idle at home and not contributing to his family. “For a week it felt nice to be at home, but after a point I couldn’t remain idle. I was witnessing the high demand for essentials and the long queues at shops. That’s what led to the initial spark” Anand told WION as he attended to customers at his store. Despite having nil experience in setting up or running a store, Anand took the decision to invest a small sum and get started with his new project. Observing the crowded shops and the goods they sold provided him considerable insights. Thats when he began to scout for a vacant commercial space near his residence. The search led him to a place that was 2kms away from his residence. The vacant space happened to be owned by Anand’s childhood friend. As he was about to get started, the reactions from his known circles were expressing apprehension and disapproval. “While the friend who rented me the place was in support, most of my colleagues from the cinema industry weren’t happy with my decision. But I wanted to go ahead as it would fetch some income and I can help people” Anand recalls about the time he opened the store in mid-June. Now, nearly a month after having started the store, Anand says that the going has been good, even quite busy. “I put up a board outside my shop about the price of certain essentials, I also offer a small discount of certain types of pulses and rice varieties. This keeps the crowd coming and there's also word-of-mouth publicity via friends and regular customers. Today there are 5 people working in the store with me” Anand says gladly. Given how the Covid-19 pandemic has thrown life out of gear for many like him, Anand hopes that people seriously consider an alternative means of earning a living. “At least for 6 months to a year, we must think of doing something else, normalcy seems quite far. In my case I had some savings to fall back on, but surely each one can explore a way out” he says. Recalling the five low-budget films he’s done so far and the ones pending for release, Anand feels that OTT platforms and online releases are the way ahead. “For small filmmakers like us, getting an OTT release means a lot. Even the platforms don’t have to spend much to buy our films when compared to that of big names” he says, hoping that his upcoming film ‘Naanum Pei Dhaan’ and the one in the pipeline ‘Thunindhu Sei' find takers.

Chennai: Budget-film director turns grocer amid challenging times

India has expressed its commitment to jointly develop Chabahar - Zahedan rail project and refuted reports of it being removed from the project.

Indian govt sources said, “Both sides remain committed to Chabahar-Zahedan railway project."

Adding, "We are very much in the game but progress is slow due to current political environment".&nbsp;

New Delhi sees the various connectivity projects in the West Asian country as the "paradigm driving India-Iran relations". The Chabahar - Zahedan port &amp; rail project and the International North-South Corridor (INSTC) from Mumbai to Moscow that passes via Iran are key connectivity projects both countries are working on. Chabahar port project is the better known of these connectivity projects.

Indian government sources said, "Both vectors enjoy a great deal of convergence among decision-makers in the two countries and beyond. This is therefore not merely an India-Iran initiative but one which generates considerable interest from Central Asian Republics and the Republic of Azerbaijan."

According to Iran media reports, Iran Railway on July 7 started laying track for the 628 km railway project with 150 km section to be completed by March 2021. The full length of the track is expected to be completed by March 2022.

There are two components of the massive connectivity project that will connect India to Afghanistan via Iran. First being the substructure --concrete bed on which rail tracks are mounted, bridges laid or tunnels dugout, etc. This is standard work in any railroad project and superstructure viz. signalling systems, rolling stocks/wagons, locomotive engines, etc.

Under the bilateral agreement, Iran is to lay the substructure which has seen delays due to lack of funds. Upon completion of substructure, India will supply the stock and operationalisation is to be done jointly.

Another hiccup has been that Iran was procuring steel from Indian suppliers. This has been suspended due to US sanctions as steel is a sanctioned commodity. Presidential elections next summer and domestic politics are also in play in the country and that sources believe does impact the project.

During PM Modi's 2016 visit to the West Asian country, India and Iran signed MoU on the construction of Chabahar-Zahedan railway line which forms part of transit and transportation corridor in a trilateral agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan. MoU was between India's IRCON and Construction, Development of Transport and Infrastructure Company (CDTIC) of Iran.

As regards financing, broad terms have been agreed upon and these are approximately in the range of $800 million.

India has expressed its commitment to jointly develop Chabahar - Zahedan rail project and refuted reports of it being removed from the project. Indian govt sources said, “Both sides remain committed to Chabahar-Zahedan railway project.

India has expressed its commitment to jointly develop Chabahar - Zahedan rail project and refuted reports of it being removed from the project. Indian govt sources said, “Both sides remain committed to Chabahar-Zahedan railway project." Adding, "We are very much in the game but progress is slow due to current political environment". New Delhi sees the various connectivity projects in the West Asian country as the "paradigm driving India-Iran relations". The Chabahar - Zahedan port & rail project and the International North-South Corridor (INSTC) from Mumbai to Moscow that passes via Iran are key connectivity projects both countries are working on. Chabahar port project is the better known of these connectivity projects. Indian government sources said, "Both vectors enjoy a great deal of convergence among decision-makers in the two countries and beyond. This is therefore not merely an India-Iran initiative but one which generates considerable interest from Central Asian Republics and the Republic of Azerbaijan." According to Iran media reports, Iran Railway on July 7 started laying track for the 628 km railway project with 150 km section to be completed by March 2021. The full length of the track is expected to be completed by March 2022. There are two components of the massive connectivity project that will connect India to Afghanistan via Iran. First being the substructure --concrete bed on which rail tracks are mounted, bridges laid or tunnels dugout, etc. This is standard work in any railroad project and superstructure viz. signalling systems, rolling stocks/wagons, locomotive engines, etc. Under the bilateral agreement, Iran is to lay the substructure which has seen delays due to lack of funds. Upon completion of substructure, India will supply the stock and operationalisation is to be done jointly. Another hiccup has been that Iran was procuring steel from Indian suppliers. This has been suspended due to US sanctions as steel is a sanctioned commodity. Presidential elections next summer and domestic politics are also in play in the country and that sources believe does impact the project. During PM Modi's 2016 visit to the West Asian country, India and Iran signed MoU on the construction of Chabahar-Zahedan railway line which forms part of transit and transportation corridor in a trilateral agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan. MoU was between India's IRCON and Construction, Development of Transport and Infrastructure Company (CDTIC) of Iran. As regards financing, broad terms have been agreed upon and these are approximately in the range of $800 million.

No dilution in India-Iran commitment to jointly develop Chabahar - Zahedan rail project

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315. &nbsp;

In the wake of the increasing number of coronavirus cases, a total lockdown is to be imposed in Bihar from 16 to 31 July.

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases.

However, India’s recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.2 per cent. The recoveries/deaths ratio is 96.05 per cent: 3.9 per cent now.

A total of 13,462,460 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. While more than 7,846,427 have recovered, 581,316 have died, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It recorded over 65,000 cases in a day to take its total to 3,545,077 coronavirus cases; its death toll stands at 139,143. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,931,204 cases and 74,262 deaths and India (937,487 cases, 24,315 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315.

India has recorded nearly 29,428 Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total number of Covid-19 cases to 937,487. With over 550 deaths on Tuesday, the country's death toll has now reached 24,315. In the wake of the increasing number of coronavirus cases, a total lockdown is to be imposed in Bihar from 16 to 31 July. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases. However, India’s recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.2 per cent. The recoveries/deaths ratio is 96.05 per cent: 3.9 per cent now. A total of 13,462,460 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. While more than 7,846,427 have recovered, 581,316 have died, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected. It recorded over 65,000 cases in a day to take its total to 3,545,077 coronavirus cases; its death toll stands at 139,143. The US is followed by Brazil, which has 1,931,204 cases and 74,262 deaths and India (937,487 cases, 24,315 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309

PM Narendra Modi will take part in the India-EU Summit today via video conferencing.This is the 15th India-EU Summit is going to be held. India-EU likely to see political talks on trade and investments

Pm Modi to represent India at EU Summit today,likely to see political talks on trade

Maharashtra government has decided to form a committee to fix prices of face masks and hand sanitizers, as per Public Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

Maharashtra government has decided to form a committee to fix prices of face masks and hand sanitizers, as per Public Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday. The state government made this move to avoid exorbitant rates. According to an official statement, Tope made the remarks during a meeting here on the issue of prices of masks and sanitizers Food and Drug Administration Minister Rajendra Shingne was a part of the meeting. "The use of masks and sanitizers has increased due to the spread of coronavirus. A committee will be formed to fix their prices. Relief should be given to the common people," Tope was quoted as saying. He added the Maharashtra government will also ask the Centre to bring masks and sanitizers under the purview of the Essential Commodities Act. India's financial capital Mumbai reported 1390 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 9,6253 including 22959 active cases. The death toll due to COVID-19 in the city has risen to 5,464. Maharashtra which has been hit the hardest with the virus recorded 7975 new cases and 233 death in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,75,640. The Maharashtra health department said that 1,52,613 coronavirus patients have been discharged so far with the COVID-19 recovery rate in the state at 55.37 per cent. (Inputs from PTI)

Maharashtra government will set up committee to fix prices of face masks and sanitizers

India's financial capital Mumbai reported 1390 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 9,6253 including 22959 active cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-over-1-lakh-recover-from-covid-19-chennai-sees-lesser-daily-cases-313515">Also Read:&nbsp;Over 1 lakh recover from COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu; Chennai sees lesser daily cases</a>

The death toll due to COVID-19 in the city has risen to 5,464. Maharashtra which has been hit the hardest with the virus recorded 7975 new cases and 233 death in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,75,640.

The Maharashtra health department said that 1,52,613 coronavirus patients have been discharged so far with with the COVID-19 recovery rate in the state at 55.37 per cent.

Meanwhile, Karnataka reported 3,176 new coronavirus cases along with 87 deaths with the death toll rising to 928. The total number of cases to in the state has shot up to 47,253 with Bengaluru recording 1,975 in the last 24 hours.

Amid the rising number of cases Dr Sudhakar K, Karnataka's minister for medical education said that state government would give Rs 5,000 each as "appreciation money" to the plasma donors even as Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated a coronavirus plasma Bank for treatment of serious patients

Gujarat which is one of the state hit hard due to the virus reported 925 coronavirus cases and ten deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 44,648. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 2,081.

In Madhya Pradesh today, 638 new coronavirus cases were reported with nine deaths taking the active cases in the state to 5,053. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to &nbsp;death toll to 682. The state health department said 18,783 COVID-19 samples were tested today. 
&nbsp;

India's financial capital Mumbai reported 1390 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 9,6253 including 22959 active cases.

India's financial capital Mumbai reported 1390 new coronavirus cases and 62 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 9,6253 including 22959 active cases. Also Read: Over 1 lakh recover from COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu; Chennai sees lesser daily cases The death toll due to COVID-19 in the city has risen to 5,464. Maharashtra which has been hit the hardest with the virus recorded 7975 new cases and 233 death in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,75,640. The Maharashtra health department said that 1,52,613 coronavirus patients have been discharged so far with with the COVID-19 recovery rate in the state at 55.37 per cent. Meanwhile, Karnataka reported 3,176 new coronavirus cases along with 87 deaths with the death toll rising to 928. The total number of cases to in the state has shot up to 47,253 with Bengaluru recording 1,975 in the last 24 hours. Amid the rising number of cases Dr Sudhakar K, Karnataka's minister for medical education said that state government would give Rs 5,000 each as "appreciation money" to the plasma donors even as Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated a coronavirus plasma Bank for treatment of serious patients Gujarat which is one of the state hit hard due to the virus reported 925 coronavirus cases and ten deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 44,648. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 2,081. In Madhya Pradesh today, 638 new coronavirus cases were reported with nine deaths taking the active cases in the state to 5,053. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to death toll to 682. The state health department said 18,783 COVID-19 samples were tested today.

COVID-19: Maharashtra reports 7,975 new cases, death toll in Mumbai rises over 5,400

China's "very aggressive" actions against India, including the brutal attack on Indian soldiers in eastern Ladakh, and its moves in the South China Sea and Hong Kong give a "good insight" into how the ruling Communist Party of China is thinking these days, US National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien has said.

The Indian and Chinese armies were locked in a standoff in multiple locations in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The tension escalated in the Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed during a violent face-off with Chinese soldiers.

"The Chinese have been very aggressive with India," O'Brien said on Tuesday alleging that during the recent clash they beat some of the Indians so badly they were disfigured and could not be identified.

"This is a dispute between India and China, but China has shown itself for what it was. Chinese troops ambushed the Indians. They beat 20 Indians to death. They beat them so badly with clubs with nails in them and wrapped with concertina -- barbed wire," O'Brien told Fox News Radio in an interview.

He was responding to a question on the recent Chinese aggressive behaviour against India in eastern Ladakh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-not-interested-in-china-trade-talks-ends-hong-kong-preferential-status-313332">Also read |&nbsp;Trump not interested in China trade talks, ends Hong Kong preferential status</a>

Responding to a question on US-India bilateral relations, he said, India is a democracy and is a great friend of the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra "Modi and President (Donald) Trump have a super relationship," O'Brien said.

"In fact, it was the last foreign trip that I took with the president before the COVID crisis hit, was to India, and we had a great reception of the Indian people there. We have a lot in common with them, we speak English, we're democracies. We've got a growing, very strong relationship with India," O'Brien said.

"But China's action towards India, just like its actions in the South China Sea, just like what it's doing in Hong Kong, just like the bullying intimidation of Taiwan, really gives you a good insight into how the Communist Party of China is thinking these days," he said.

China claims almost all of the 1.3 million square mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam.

"It's something to be very concerned about," O'Brien said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-revokes-controversial-order-that-would-have-seen-foreign-students-deported-313330">Also read |&nbsp;US revokes controversial order that would have seen foreign students deported</a>

On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo rejected "most" of China's maritime claims in the South China Sea, the latest in the escalation between Washington and Beijing.

Last week, the Trump administration took action against Chinese officials for their involvement in human rights abuses in the Xinjiang region, where Uyghur Muslims and other minority groups have been detained and tortured.

And two weeks ago, the administration announced visa restrictions on current and former Chinese officials who it says "were responsible for eviscerating Hong Kong's freedoms."

The Trump administration has been openly critical of Beijing's sweeping national security law aimed at limiting Hong Kong's autonomy and banning literature critical of the Chinese Communist Party.

Earlier in the day, Senator Bob Menendez, a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, alleged that China is seeking to redraw the map of Asia without regard to its neighbours.

"As India and China work to disengage along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), I remain deeply concerned by China's aggressive behaviour in territorial disputes," he said.

"From the 2017 Doklam standoff to the recent violence along the borders in Sikkim and Ladakh, to China's new claims to Bhutanese territory, Beijing has all too often sought to redraw the map of Asia without regard for its neighbours," he said.

The international community must be clear that such behaviour is unacceptable, he added.

Menendez, the top Democratic Senator from New Jersey, said that the US-India partnership, based on their shared commitment to democracy, is vital to uphold international law, international norms and the institutions that can peacefully and diplomatically resolve disputes and aggression.

"I am committed to working with the Indian government and the Indian-American community in New Jersey and throughout the United States to advance US-India cooperation," Menendez said.&nbsp;

China's "very aggressive" actions against India, including the brutal attack on Indian soldiers in eastern Ladakh, and its moves in the South China Sea and Hong Kong give a "good insight" into how the ruling Communist Party of China is thinking these days, US National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien has said.

China's "very aggressive" actions against India, including the brutal attack on Indian soldiers in eastern Ladakh, and its moves in the South China Sea and Hong Kong give a "good insight" into how the ruling Communist Party of China is thinking these days, US National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien has said. The Indian and Chinese armies were locked in a standoff in multiple locations in eastern Ladakh since May 5. The tension escalated in the Galwan Valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed during a violent face-off with Chinese soldiers. "The Chinese have been very aggressive with India," O'Brien said on Tuesday alleging that during the recent clash they beat some of the Indians so badly they were disfigured and could not be identified. "This is a dispute between India and China, but China has shown itself for what it was. Chinese troops ambushed the Indians. They beat 20 Indians to death. They beat them so badly with clubs with nails in them and wrapped with concertina -- barbed wire," O'Brien told Fox News Radio in an interview. He was responding to a question on the recent Chinese aggressive behaviour against India in eastern Ladakh. Also read | Trump not interested in China trade talks, ends Hong Kong preferential status Responding to a question on US-India bilateral relations, he said, India is a democracy and is a great friend of the United States. Prime Minister Narendra "Modi and President (Donald) Trump have a super relationship," O'Brien said. "In fact, it was the last foreign trip that I took with the president before the COVID crisis hit, was to India, and we had a great reception of the Indian people there. We have a lot in common with them, we speak English, we're democracies. We've got a growing, very strong relationship with India," O'Brien said. "But China's action towards India, just like its actions in the South China Sea, just like what it's doing in Hong Kong, just like the bullying intimidation of Taiwan, really gives you a good insight into how the Communist Party of China is thinking these days," he said. China claims almost all of the 1.3 million square mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. "It's something to be very concerned about," O'Brien said. Also read | US revokes controversial order that would have seen foreign students deported On Monday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo rejected "most" of China's maritime claims in the South China Sea, the latest in the escalation between Washington and Beijing. Last week, the Trump administration took action against Chinese officials for their involvement in human rights abuses in the Xinjiang region, where Uyghur Muslims and other minority groups have been detained and tortured. And two weeks ago, the administration announced visa restrictions on current and former Chinese officials who it says "were responsible for eviscerating Hong Kong's freedoms." The Trump administration has been openly critical of Beijing's sweeping national security law aimed at limiting Hong Kong's autonomy and banning literature critical of the Chinese Communist Party. Earlier in the day, Senator Bob Menendez, a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, alleged that China is seeking to redraw the map of Asia without regard to its neighbours. "As India and China work to disengage along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), I remain deeply concerned by China's aggressive behaviour in territorial disputes," he said. "From the 2017 Doklam standoff to the recent violence along the borders in Sikkim and Ladakh, to China's new claims to Bhutanese territory, Beijing has all too often sought to redraw the map of Asia without regard for its neighbours," he said. The international community must be clear that such behaviour is unacceptable, he added. Menendez, the top Democratic Senator from New Jersey, said that the US-India partnership, based on their shared commitment to democracy, is vital to uphold international law, international norms and the institutions that can peacefully and diplomatically resolve disputes and aggression. "I am committed to working with the Indian government and the Indian-American community in New Jersey and throughout the United States to advance US-India cooperation," Menendez said.

China's aggressive actions against India give insight into how CPC thinking theses days: US NSA

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution"

The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed.&nbsp;

Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA &nbsp;said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas."

Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan.&nbsp;

Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC &nbsp;in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution" The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed. Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas." Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan. Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression discussed at India-EU Summit: European Council president

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin.&nbsp;

This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike. Tamil Nadu is the state with the second highest number of cases in India, after Maharashtra. The southern Indian state is the also second one in the country to have surpassed 1 lakh recoveries.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the state witnessed 4526 cases, the highest-ever single day spike and there were 4496 new cases on Wednesday. Despite the drop in daily cases, Chennai remains the hotspot in the state along with its three adjoining districts.&nbsp;

While Chennai and adjoining districts have seen a significant reduction in cases (in recent weeks), the worrying factor remains 13 other districts spread across the state where the daily new cases are surpassing or nearing 100. The number of deaths also in certain other districts has been going up in recent weeks.&nbsp;

On Wednesday alone, Madurai district saw 341 new cases, thus taking the total active cases in Madurai to 3347. After Chennai, Madurai is the other major city to see such a large number of cases.&nbsp;

However, the silver lining has been the high recovery rate in the state. On Wednesday alone, 5000 persons were discharged, thus taking the cumulative number of discharged patients to 1,02,310. The state currently has 47,340 active cases, of which over 23,000 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts.

In terms of the patients succumbing to Covid-19, the count in Tamil Nadu has been lesser(as per available data) when compared to states of similar size and case rates. 68 persons lost their battle to the deadly pandemic on Wednesday, taking the total count of deaths to 2,167.&nbsp;

It is also commendable that in recent months, Tamil Nadu has ramped up testing manifold. In late June, Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million(10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a huge feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so.&nbsp;

For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely scaled up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, &nbsp;from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a six-fold increase and currently 107 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 54 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 53 of them are private ones.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin. This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike.

Over 1 lakh Covid-19 patients have been discharged after treatment, according to the Tamil Nadu government-issued health bulletin. This also comes at a time when the capital city Chennai is witnessing relatively lower daily cases and the southern districts of the state are seeing a spike. Tamil Nadu is the state with the second highest number of cases in India, after Maharashtra. The southern Indian state is the also second one in the country to have surpassed 1 lakh recoveries. On Tuesday, the state witnessed 4526 cases, the highest-ever single day spike and there were 4496 new cases on Wednesday. Despite the drop in daily cases, Chennai remains the hotspot in the state along with its three adjoining districts. While Chennai and adjoining districts have seen a significant reduction in cases (in recent weeks), the worrying factor remains 13 other districts spread across the state where the daily new cases are surpassing or nearing 100. The number of deaths also in certain other districts has been going up in recent weeks. On Wednesday alone, Madurai district saw 341 new cases, thus taking the total active cases in Madurai to 3347. After Chennai, Madurai is the other major city to see such a large number of cases. However, the silver lining has been the high recovery rate in the state. On Wednesday alone, 5000 persons were discharged, thus taking the cumulative number of discharged patients to 1,02,310. The state currently has 47,340 active cases, of which over 23,000 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts. In terms of the patients succumbing to Covid-19, the count in Tamil Nadu has been lesser(as per available data) when compared to states of similar size and case rates. 68 persons lost their battle to the deadly pandemic on Wednesday, taking the total count of deaths to 2,167. It is also commendable that in recent months, Tamil Nadu has ramped up testing manifold. In late June, Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million(10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a huge feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely scaled up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a six-fold increase and currently 107 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 54 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 53 of them are private ones.

Tamil Nadu: Over 1 lakh recover from Covid-19; Chennai sees lesser daily cases

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper.

"The Coach has been designed by Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala to prevent the spread of Covid 19. The Ministry said, Railways has taken numerous steps and measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus infection," the Railways Ministry said.

According to the Ministry, "this Coach has the provision of plasma air equipment in the air conditioning duct. This equipment will sterilize the air and surfaces inside the AC coach using ionised air to make the coach Covid-19 and particulate matter resistant." 
 
This Post Covid Coach has design improvements in the coach like handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails &amp; latches, plasma air purification and titanium di-oxide coating for Covid free passenger journey, the Railways added.

"Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st Post Covid Coach' with handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails &amp; latches, plasma air purification, Titanium di-oxide coating.

"For Covid-Free passenger journey!," Railway Minister Piyush Goyal tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st ‘Post COVID Coach’ with: 
 
▪️Handsfree amenities 
▪️Copper-coated handrails &amp; latches 
▪️Plasma air purification 
▪️Titanium di-oxide coating 
 
For COVID-Free passenger journey! 
 
Details: <a href="https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST">https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST</a> <a href="https://t.co/yWakrxt4s2">pic.twitter.com/yWakrxt4s2</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1282921165678231552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper.

Indian Railways has developed post-Covid train coaches to fight coronavirus with several special features in new coaches, which including foot-operated soap dispensers and toilet flushes, new door handles and handrails coated with anti-microbial copper. "The Coach has been designed by Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala to prevent the spread of Covid 19. The Ministry said, Railways has taken numerous steps and measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus infection," the Railways Ministry said. According to the Ministry, "this Coach has the provision of plasma air equipment in the air conditioning duct. This equipment will sterilize the air and surfaces inside the AC coach using ionised air to make the coach Covid-19 and particulate matter resistant." This Post Covid Coach has design improvements in the coach like handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails & latches, plasma air purification and titanium di-oxide coating for Covid free passenger journey, the Railways added. "Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st Post Covid Coach' with handsfree amenities, copper-coated handrails & latches, plasma air purification, Titanium di-oxide coating. "For Covid-Free passenger journey!," Railway Minister Piyush Goyal tweeted. Future Ready Railway: Designed to fight Coronavirus, Railways creates 1st ‘Post COVID Coach’ with: ▪️Handsfree amenities ▪️Copper-coated handrails & latches ▪️Plasma air purification ▪️Titanium di-oxide coating For COVID-Free passenger journey! Details: https://t.co/VAVDu6lDST pic.twitter.com/yWakrxt4s2 — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) July 14, 2020 ×

Handsfree amenities, plasma air purification: Indian Railways develops the post-Covid coach

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed India-EU Summit via video conferencing. 'India and EU are natural partners, Our partnership is also useful for peace and stability in the world' says PM Modi

PM Modi, European leaders open talks on trade & COVID-19; Calls for Human-centric globalisation

WION Dispatch: 'Our partnership will bring stability to world', says PM Modi at 15th EU-India Summit

Congress national general secretary and Rajasthan in-charge Avinash Pande on Wednesday said that the party has decided to dissolve all district and block committees in the state with immediate effect.

Congress national general secretary and Rajasthan in-charge Avinash Pande on Wednesday said that the party has decided to dissolve all district and block committees in the state with immediate effect. "AICC has decided to dissolve all the District Congress Committees and Block Congress Committees of Rajasthan Pradesh with immediate effect. The process of formation of new committees will begin soon," Pande tweeted. Earlier in the day, Pande dissolved all cells and departments of the state party unit. AICC has decided to dissolve all the District Congress Commities and Block Congress Committees of Rajasthan Pradesh with immediate effect. The process of formation of new committees will begin soon. — Avinash Pande (@avinashpandeinc) July 15, 2020 × "The state executive, all departments and cells of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee have been dissolved with immediate effect. With the appointment of the new president of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress, new state executive, departments and cells will be formed," Pande tweeted in Hindi. He also said that no Congressmen will communicate with the media without the permission of newly appointed Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasara. The Rajasthan Congress is in turmoil over the past few days. State Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has blamed the BJP for attempting to destabilise the state government by poaching MLAs. The Congress government in the state is facing a political crisis after simmering differences between Pilot and Ashok Gehlot came out in the open.A controversy broke out in Rajasthan after Special Operation Group (SOG) sent a notice to Pilot to record his statement in the case registered by SOG in the alleged poaching of Congress MLAs in the state.

Congress dissolves all Rajasthan district, block committees amid internal crisis

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual)&nbsp;summit,&nbsp;Indian PM called India and EU natural partners.

''Our partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world. This reality has become even more clear in the global situation today,'' PM said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brussels-bats-for-india-eu-fta-but-highlights-new-delhis-protectionist-policies-313299">Brussels bats for India-EU FTA, but highlights New Delhi's protectionist policies</a>

''We both believe in democracy, freedom, transparencies, respect for international institutions,'' Modi noted.

On the pandemic that is gripping the world,&nbsp;PM said democracies should come together to deal with COVID crisis.&nbsp;

Modi stressed that long-term challenges like climate change was&nbsp;a priority for India and the EU.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/european-union-briefed-by-india-china-on-border-face-off-313251">Also read:&nbsp;European Union briefed by India, China on border face-off</a>

''Apart from current challenges, long-term challenges like climate change also a priority for India and the EU. In our efforts to increase the use of renewable energy in India, we invite investment and technology from Europe,'' &nbsp;Modis said.

Speaking on the occasion,&nbsp;European Council President Charles Michel thanked India for its cooperation.&nbsp;

''I would like to thank India for the cooperation your country has shown with the EU. I would like to pay tribute to your role nationally and internationally, multilaterally in combating COVID19 pandemic,'' said Michel.

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual) summit, Indian PM called India and EU natural partners.

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual) summit, Indian PM called India and EU natural partners. ''Our partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world. This reality has become even more clear in the global situation today,'' PM said. Also read: Brussels bats for India-EU FTA, but highlights New Delhi's protectionist policies ''We both believe in democracy, freedom, transparencies, respect for international institutions,'' Modi noted. On the pandemic that is gripping the world, PM said democracies should come together to deal with COVID crisis. Modi stressed that long-term challenges like climate change was a priority for India and the EU. Also read: European Union briefed by India, China on border face-off ''Apart from current challenges, long-term challenges like climate change also a priority for India and the EU. In our efforts to increase the use of renewable energy in India, we invite investment and technology from Europe,'' Modis said. Speaking on the occasion, European Council President Charles Michel thanked India for its cooperation. ''I would like to thank India for the cooperation your country has shown with the EU. I would like to pay tribute to your role nationally and internationally, multilaterally in combating COVID19 pandemic,'' said Michel.

India-EU partnership is significant for peace and stability of world: PM Modi

Coronavirus cases increases rapidly in India, it reports 29,429 new cases in 24 hours. India overtakes Brazil in covid-19 cases. Watch this graph to know India's daily surge cases and deaths in Covid-19

India overtakes Brazil, reports 29,429 new cases In 24 hours

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