Israeli-American rabbi ridicules Hindu beliefs over cow worship, faces backlash | Video

US midterms 2026: Michigan Democrats thought they had made peace. Then Haley Stevens renewed clash with Abdul El-Sayed

All votes counted, Netanyahu’s Likud emerges as biggest party with 27 seats; majority eludes both blocs

Turkish ambassador Ali Murat Ersoy says India and Turkey ‘cannot remain strangers’

India's Bihar museum among top 10 in the world, beats Paris's Louvre

IND vs NZ: Shreyas Iyer breaks record for most T20I runs by an Indian captain in a year

Rubio warns of 'moment of choosing' at G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting as Russian FM Lavrov's presence forces cancellation of 'family photo'

Why is US Army preparing for mass battlefield burials amid Iran tensions?

Trump says US 'looking at' possible North Korean role in $6.3 billion Binance crypto heist

Rakul Preet Singh on playing Surpanakha in Ramayana: 'She is a character with a significant place'

Prediction markets are betting big on the US midterms. But can they get it right?

ISRO's GSLV-F18 launch success revives NAVIC, but there's a catch...

Police called after 3-year-old scores 10 goals in 12 minutes at Florida youth soccer game

Game of Thrones actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau takes shelter alongside Kyiv residents amid air raid threat

'Make s**t houses great again': Norway hits back at Trump's insult with genius level toilet humour

Women hold just 17.4% of Trump's cabinet-level posts, down from 52% under Biden: Report

Ilhan Omar's alleged brother and ex-husband calls himself a 'gay man' in academic paper - 'extremely feminine Somali guy'

Arijit Singh and Karan Aujla to perform at ‘HOME’ in Goa: Read details here

US midterms: Early voting crosses record 47.9 million, Democrats lead Republicans

Federal judge blocks Trump administration's election pressure tactics in sweeping emergency order

Physicist predicted Friday the 13th 'doomsday' in 1960. It is 13 days away

WPL 2027 auction: Top 5 most expensive signings

'Was that on air?': Israeli actress Chelli Goldenberg says she's 'no longer proud to be Israeli', realises interview is live | Watch video

BJP to stage protest over anti-Sikh riots on November 1, same day as INDIA bloc’s ‘Chalo Dilli’ rally

Did Donald Trump and Javier Milei help Flavio Bolsonaro escape Brazil? Senator's secret flight to Florida sparks political controversy

Poland in political turmoil as Karol Nawrocki returns mid-flight amid Constitutional Court 'coup d'etat' claims. What's happening?

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Putin's war warning shakes Europe: NATO builds war bunkers, Britain stockpiles food | Gravitas

Alaska Senate midterms election: Federal officials expand investigation into alleged Democratic 'spoiler' candidate scheme

'Shut up, shut up. Dope. Shut up. Loser': Trump lashes out while getting heckled again | WATCH

Why have Trump and JD Vance cancelled weekend appearances ahead of US midterms?

Cleaning chemical mistaken for sugar: Customers suffer chemical burns after drinking margaritas at US Chili’s outlet

A fresh lockdown has been imposed in parts of Kashmir after a spike in the number of coronavirus positive cases, which prompted authorities to reimpose restriction in Containment and Red Zones of the valley.&nbsp;

After the lockdown was lifted, people breathed a sigh of relief but locals were not following social distancing norms and other SOPs laid by the&nbsp;government with experts calling for an immediate lockdown to control the spread of this deadly virus.

Shops, business establishments, and offices remained shut with containment areas sealed with fences and barricades by the authorities to curb the movement of people.&nbsp;The decision to impose restrictions has been taken after the recommendations of experts, officials say.&nbsp;

"District Magistrate Srinagar Shahid Iqbal Choudhary issuing orders in this regard has directed for sealing off all these 88 red zones with strict enforcement of restrictions on public movement and activities of all sorts," a press release by the government said.&nbsp;

<img alt="corona" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64e5c2f4-61da-47d9-ac74-2c355d42fbce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_37.jpg" />

On Sunday, strict restrictions were ordered in 88 containment zones of Srinagar to deal with the growing cases in the city. The total number of positive cases in Srinagar has reached 1,708, out of which 1145 are active according to the latest data provided by the administration. The summer capital of the union territory Srinagar has 1,704 cases, the highest among 20 districts of J&amp;K with 44 deaths so far.&nbsp;

A total of 10,513 people have been tested COVID positive since the outbreak which has worried the health experts with currently 4355 cases active positive in different hospitals.&nbsp;Apart from Srinagar, districts including Baramulla, Anantnag, and Kupwara have imposed a similar strategy to combat the deadly virus.&nbsp;

STRUGGLING ECONOMY

What's more worrying is that the economy of the erstwhile state has been badly hit post the abrogation of J&amp;K special status which witnessed many days of curfew and restrictions. The business sector of the valley had pinned their hopes to this summer but the spread of coronavirus has brought down curtains on their hopes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/46-terrorists-killed-so-far-this-month-in-jk-highest-in-a-single-month-say-police-309250" hreflang="en">46 terrorists killed so far this month in J&amp;K, highest in a single month, say police</a>

"Now that once again a lockdown will be imposed, the already debilitated economy of Kashmir will suffer more.&nbsp;It can’t now revive without the government’s intervention and timely announcement of Special packages," President of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Ashiq wrote on twitter.&nbsp;

TOURISM AMID CORONA

An order issued by the administration to reopen tourism has drawn flak from locals as they are questioning the government for reimposing lockdown while asking tourists to visit the valley.&nbsp;&nbsp;A set of guidelines have been issued by the government in which tourists will be allowed to enter only by air with&nbsp;RTPCR testing on arrival compulsory.&nbsp;

"This may send out a positive message but we don't expect tourists to come when its largely about personal safety first. We have growing cases and a lockdown has been ordered again, how will tourists come?" asked a man associated with tourism sector in Kashmir.&nbsp;

A fresh lockdown has been imposed in parts of Kashmir after a spike in the number of coronavirus positive cases, which prompted authorities to reimpose restriction in Containment and Red Zones of the valley.

A fresh lockdown has been imposed in parts of Kashmir after a spike in the number of coronavirus positive cases, which prompted authorities to reimpose restriction in Containment and Red Zones of the valley. After the lockdown was lifted, people breathed a sigh of relief but locals were not following social distancing norms and other SOPs laid by the government with experts calling for an immediate lockdown to control the spread of this deadly virus. Shops, business establishments, and offices remained shut with containment areas sealed with fences and barricades by the authorities to curb the movement of people. The decision to impose restrictions has been taken after the recommendations of experts, officials say. "District Magistrate Srinagar Shahid Iqbal Choudhary issuing orders in this regard has directed for sealing off all these 88 red zones with strict enforcement of restrictions on public movement and activities of all sorts," a press release by the government said. On Sunday, strict restrictions were ordered in 88 containment zones of Srinagar to deal with the growing cases in the city. The total number of positive cases in Srinagar has reached 1,708, out of which 1145 are active according to the latest data provided by the administration. The summer capital of the union territory Srinagar has 1,704 cases, the highest among 20 districts of J&K with 44 deaths so far. A total of 10,513 people have been tested COVID positive since the outbreak which has worried the health experts with currently 4355 cases active positive in different hospitals. Apart from Srinagar, districts including Baramulla, Anantnag, and Kupwara have imposed a similar strategy to combat the deadly virus. STRUGGLING ECONOMY What's more worrying is that the economy of the erstwhile state has been badly hit post the abrogation of J&K special status which witnessed many days of curfew and restrictions. The business sector of the valley had pinned their hopes to this summer but the spread of coronavirus has brought down curtains on their hopes. Also read: 46 terrorists killed so far this month in J&K, highest in a single month, say police "Now that once again a lockdown will be imposed, the already debilitated economy of Kashmir will suffer more. It can’t now revive without the government’s intervention and timely announcement of Special packages," President of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Ashiq wrote on twitter. TOURISM AMID CORONA An order issued by the administration to reopen tourism has drawn flak from locals as they are questioning the government for reimposing lockdown while asking tourists to visit the valley. A set of guidelines have been issued by the government in which tourists will be allowed to enter only by air with RTPCR testing on arrival compulsory. "This may send out a positive message but we don't expect tourists to come when its largely about personal safety first. We have growing cases and a lockdown has been ordered again, how will tourists come?" asked a man associated with tourism sector in Kashmir.

With rise in COVID-19 cases, lockdown reimposed in Srinagar and nearby areas

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday spoke at India Global Week 2020. Watch this video to know what he said.

S Jaishankar: 'Issues of trust' to rise in post-COVID world

Police in Nagaland have set up the north-eastern state's biggest quarantine facility managed by police personnel, a senior official said on Sunday.

The 1027-bed centre at Ganeshpur was set up to augment the state government's efforts to check coronavirus, Nagaland DGP T John Longkumer said.

A police team reached the Ganeshnagar Special Economic Zone under the Dhansiripar sub division in Dimapur on May 20 to assess, plan, organise and work out modalities to set up the facility, which was set up in a fortnight, he said.

Work began to institutionally quarantine stranded returnees from other states, Nagaland Police ADGP (Admin) Sandeep Tamgadge told PTI.

DIG (Training) Aotemsu headed the team of officers handling accommodation, power supply, sanitation, water supply, office and control room, security, logistics, catering and transport there, Tamgadge said.

"Personal comfort and the risk of inevitable exposure to coronavirus took a back seat and all police personnel got the quarantine centre ready in record time," the IPS officer said.

Altogether 640 police personnel, including officers, were on the ground when the process to build the centre began, Tamgadge said.

The first batch of 509 returnees from Bengaluru, including 383 men and 126 women, arrived at the quarantine centre on June 5, followed by returnees from Punjab, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

The Ganeshnagar centre is the biggest one in Nagaland to be built and managed by police for people of the state through the Community Oriented Police Service (COPS) initiative, he said.

A police medical team comprising doctors, nurses and other health Workers is stationed in the facility and attends to routine quarantine duties and other medical emergencies.

The team has also been tasked with sample collection and swab testings and operates the TrueNat system, approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research to conduct coronavirus tests.

"Nagaland police have always overcome challenges and during the unprecedented coronavirus situation also, we have performed our duties going beyond the task of normal policing and have not only enforced the lockdown but also secured the various quarantine centres in the state," John Longkumer said.

"We resurrected an old disused industrial complex by clearing thick jungle, installing water lines, bathrooms, providing electricity and even digging a 1.25 lakh litre pond to replenish water supply," the Nagaland police chief said.

Nagaland police are managing the quarantined persons, their testing, food, accommodation and medical facilities. "We thank the state government and civil society for helping us in this endeavour and imposing trust in our abilities," he said.

Police in Nagaland have set up the north-eastern state's biggest quarantine facility managed by police personnel, a senior official said on Sunday. The 1027-bed centre at Ganeshpur was set up to augment the state government's efforts to check coronavirus, Nagaland DGP T John Longkumer said.

Police in Nagaland have set up the north-eastern state's biggest quarantine facility managed by police personnel, a senior official said on Sunday. The 1027-bed centre at Ganeshpur was set up to augment the state government's efforts to check coronavirus, Nagaland DGP T John Longkumer said. A police team reached the Ganeshnagar Special Economic Zone under the Dhansiripar sub division in Dimapur on May 20 to assess, plan, organise and work out modalities to set up the facility, which was set up in a fortnight, he said. Work began to institutionally quarantine stranded returnees from other states, Nagaland Police ADGP (Admin) Sandeep Tamgadge told PTI. DIG (Training) Aotemsu headed the team of officers handling accommodation, power supply, sanitation, water supply, office and control room, security, logistics, catering and transport there, Tamgadge said. "Personal comfort and the risk of inevitable exposure to coronavirus took a back seat and all police personnel got the quarantine centre ready in record time," the IPS officer said. Altogether 640 police personnel, including officers, were on the ground when the process to build the centre began, Tamgadge said. The first batch of 509 returnees from Bengaluru, including 383 men and 126 women, arrived at the quarantine centre on June 5, followed by returnees from Punjab, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The Ganeshnagar centre is the biggest one in Nagaland to be built and managed by police for people of the state through the Community Oriented Police Service (COPS) initiative, he said. A police medical team comprising doctors, nurses and other health Workers is stationed in the facility and attends to routine quarantine duties and other medical emergencies. The team has also been tasked with sample collection and swab testings and operates the TrueNat system, approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research to conduct coronavirus tests. "Nagaland police have always overcome challenges and during the unprecedented coronavirus situation also, we have performed our duties going beyond the task of normal policing and have not only enforced the lockdown but also secured the various quarantine centres in the state," John Longkumer said. "We resurrected an old disused industrial complex by clearing thick jungle, installing water lines, bathrooms, providing electricity and even digging a 1.25 lakh litre pond to replenish water supply," the Nagaland police chief said. Nagaland police are managing the quarantined persons, their testing, food, accommodation and medical facilities. "We thank the state government and civil society for helping us in this endeavour and imposing trust in our abilities," he said.

Nagaland police set up, operate 1027-bed quarantine centre

Eighteen personnel at Raj Bhavan in south Mumbai have tested coronavirus positive, a civic body official said on Sunday. 
Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari is fine and has self isolated himself as a precautionary measure, another official said.

Two Raj Bhavan employees tested positive last week, after which 100 others there got tested, of which 16 have tested positive, the official said.

Among those who tested positive are senior staff members at Raj Bhavan, sources said.

Maharashtra, India's worst-hit state, registered a record single-day jump of 8,139 new cases on Saturday, taking the state's tally to 2,46,600 positive cases.

The record rise in daily cases was seen on a day the state government announced a 10-day long lockdown in Pune district.

Eighteen personnel at Raj Bhavan in south Mumbai have tested coronavirus positive, a civic body official said on Sunday. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari is fine and has self isolated himself as a precautionary measure, another official said.

Eighteen personnel at Raj Bhavan in south Mumbai have tested coronavirus positive, a civic body official said on Sunday. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari is fine and has self isolated himself as a precautionary measure, another official said. Two Raj Bhavan employees tested positive last week, after which 100 others there got tested, of which 16 have tested positive, the official said. Among those who tested positive are senior staff members at Raj Bhavan, sources said. Maharashtra, India's worst-hit state, registered a record single-day jump of 8,139 new cases on Saturday, taking the state's tally to 2,46,600 positive cases. The record rise in daily cases was seen on a day the state government announced a 10-day long lockdown in Pune district.

COVID-19: 18 personnel at Mumbai's Raj Bhavan test positive

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu.

"I think every death, all these cases, as a principle, need to be fully investigated," Dujarric said during a weekly briefing on Saturday when asked to comment on the killing of a father and son in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu in police custody.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tuticorin-custodial-deaths-cbi-takes-over-probe-from-cb-cid-312542">Also read|&nbsp;Tuticorin custodial deaths: CBI takes over probe from CB-CID</a>

On June 19, Jayaraj (59) and his son J Benicks (31), were arrested and lodged in Kovilpatti sub-jail for keeping their shop open in Sathankulam main bazaar area during the lockdown. They were allegedly tortured by policemen, admitted to hospital and later succumbed to injuries.

Initially, the matter was being probed by the CB-CID but later taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

On July 4, five police personnel accused in the case were transferred from Tuticorin jail to Madurai Central Jail.

The CBI has released the documents and confessions of the CB-CID inquiry into the case which has been presented to ADSP Shukla.

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu.

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu. "I think every death, all these cases, as a principle, need to be fully investigated," Dujarric said during a weekly briefing on Saturday when asked to comment on the killing of a father and son in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu in police custody. Also read| Tuticorin custodial deaths: CBI takes over probe from CB-CID On June 19, Jayaraj (59) and his son J Benicks (31), were arrested and lodged in Kovilpatti sub-jail for keeping their shop open in Sathankulam main bazaar area during the lockdown. They were allegedly tortured by policemen, admitted to hospital and later succumbed to injuries. Initially, the matter was being probed by the CB-CID but later taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). On July 4, five police personnel accused in the case were transferred from Tuticorin jail to Madurai Central Jail. The CBI has released the documents and confessions of the CB-CID inquiry into the case which has been presented to ADSP Shukla.

Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case

Karnataka remained shut during the second Sunday curfew to help fight COVID-19 in Karnataka, bringing the state to a virtual standstill.

The curfew was strictly imposed in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi, among others, as very few people were seen on the roads, while most preferred to stay indoors.

Most vehicles like buses, autorickshaws, cars and two-wheelers stayed off the roads in cities, including the state capital Bengaluru, where a week-long curfew will come into effect from Tuesday.

While the government did not rule out the possibility of extending the total lockdown in Bengaluru commencing on Tuesday night, it also hinted at extending the curbs across the state. However, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa will take the final call on Monday on the matter.

As part of its measures to curb the spread of the virus in the capital city, which has seen a spurt in the number of cases in the last few days, the state government had announced a complete lockdown from July 14-22.

Incidentally, the western city of Pune in Maharashtra has also announced a lockdown from June 13 to June 23.

On Sunday, only essential activities were permitted in the state and policemen were seen strictly enforcing the curfew.

While a majority of people abided by the curfew order and remained indoors, there were instances of violations too.

The policemen were seen questioning the violators.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Bhaskar Rao had earlier appealed to the people to abide by the curfew and had also warned violators. 
"Curfew will prevail in Bangalore City Commissionerate from 8 pm today to 5 am on Monday. Requesting all Bangalureans to cooperate and stay home. This is in public interest. Those moving without reason will be dealt with legally," Rao had tweeted on Saturday.

In Yashwanthapur in the city during the curfew, a man was allegedly found travelling in an autorickshaw with an 'institutional quarantine' stamp on his hand, police sources said. He was detained for questioning.

At a few places such as Malleswaram, BTM Layout and Koramangala, police penalised violators.

Earlier, the state government had announced a total lockdown on all Sundays starting July 5 in view of the spike in the number of coronavirus cases in the state.

&nbsp;

Karnataka remained shut during the second Sunday curfew to help fight COVID-19 in Karnataka, bringing the state to a virtual standstill. The curfew was strictly imposed in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi, among others, as very few people were seen on the roads, while most preferred to stay indoors.

Karnataka remained shut during the second Sunday curfew to help fight COVID-19 in Karnataka, bringing the state to a virtual standstill. The curfew was strictly imposed in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi, among others, as very few people were seen on the roads, while most preferred to stay indoors. Most vehicles like buses, autorickshaws, cars and two-wheelers stayed off the roads in cities, including the state capital Bengaluru, where a week-long curfew will come into effect from Tuesday. While the government did not rule out the possibility of extending the total lockdown in Bengaluru commencing on Tuesday night, it also hinted at extending the curbs across the state. However, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa will take the final call on Monday on the matter. As part of its measures to curb the spread of the virus in the capital city, which has seen a spurt in the number of cases in the last few days, the state government had announced a complete lockdown from July 14-22. Incidentally, the western city of Pune in Maharashtra has also announced a lockdown from June 13 to June 23. On Sunday, only essential activities were permitted in the state and policemen were seen strictly enforcing the curfew. While a majority of people abided by the curfew order and remained indoors, there were instances of violations too. The policemen were seen questioning the violators. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Bhaskar Rao had earlier appealed to the people to abide by the curfew and had also warned violators. "Curfew will prevail in Bangalore City Commissionerate from 8 pm today to 5 am on Monday. Requesting all Bangalureans to cooperate and stay home. This is in public interest. Those moving without reason will be dealt with legally," Rao had tweeted on Saturday. In Yashwanthapur in the city during the curfew, a man was allegedly found travelling in an autorickshaw with an 'institutional quarantine' stamp on his hand, police sources said. He was detained for questioning. At a few places such as Malleswaram, BTM Layout and Koramangala, police penalised violators. Earlier, the state government had announced a total lockdown on all Sundays starting July 5 in view of the spike in the number of coronavirus cases in the state.

Coronavirus: Sunday curfew brings Karnataka to a standstill

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday.

Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur.

The commission will have to submit its report within two&nbsp;months.

Earlier in the day, a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is formed to investigate cases related to Dubey reached Bikru village in Kanpur.

The SIT headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy will have to submit its report by July 31.

Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard.

He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee".

The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday. Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur.

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday. Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur. The commission will have to submit its report within two months. Earlier in the day, a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is formed to investigate cases related to Dubey reached Bikru village in Kanpur. The SIT headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy will have to submit its report by July 31. Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard. He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee". The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter.

Vikas Dubey's encounter: UP govt constitutes one-member commission

A total of 28,637 new positive cases and 551 deaths have been reported in India in the last 24 hours, as reported by Ministry of Health.

Total positive cases in the country now stand&nbsp;at 8,49,553 including 2,92,258 active cases, 5,34,621 cured/ discharged/ migrated and 22,674 patients who lost their lives to the novel coronavirus.

Maharashtra reported&nbsp;8,139 new cases and&nbsp;223 deaths on Saturday night. Nealry 4,360 patients were discharged. Total number of cases in the state is now at 2,46,600, including 99,202 active cases, 1,36,985 discharged and 10,116 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-Amitabh-Bachchans-condition-stable-after-testing-positive-for-COVID-19-312658">Also read:&nbsp;Amitabh Bachchan's condition stable after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

Mumbai, Maharashtra's capital, reported 1,308 cases, 1,497 discharged patients and 39 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 91,457 including 63,431 recovered, 22,779 active cases and 5,241 deaths. At least 18 people tested positive at Raj Bhavan (Governor's residence) in Mumbai, after they got themselves tested on their own. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has confirmed the news after conducting their own tests. The building has been sealed and all employees have been asked to self-quarantine.

National capital Delhi reported&nbsp;1,781 new cases, 2,998 recovered patients&nbsp;and 34 deaths on Saturday night. Total number of cases in the national capital is now at 1,10,921, including 87,692 recovered/discharged/migrated, 19,895 active cases and 3,334 deaths.

The Delhi Health Department also reported that 21,508 COVID-19 tests were conducted in the national capital on Saturday night — 9,767 RTPCR tests and 11,741 rapid antigen tests.

Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

A total of 28,637 new positive cases and 551 deaths have been reported in India in the last 24 hours, as reported by Ministry of Health. Total positive cases in the country now stand at 8,49,553 including 2,92,258 active cases, 5,34,621 cured/ discharged/ migrated and 22,674 patients who lost their lives to the novel coronavirus.

A total of 28,637 new positive cases and 551 deaths have been reported in India in the last 24 hours, as reported by Ministry of Health. Total positive cases in the country now stand at 8,49,553 including 2,92,258 active cases, 5,34,621 cured/ discharged/ migrated and 22,674 patients who lost their lives to the novel coronavirus. Maharashtra reported 8,139 new cases and 223 deaths on Saturday night. Nealry 4,360 patients were discharged. Total number of cases in the state is now at 2,46,600, including 99,202 active cases, 1,36,985 discharged and 10,116 deaths. Also read: Amitabh Bachchan's condition stable after testing positive for COVID-19 Mumbai, Maharashtra's capital, reported 1,308 cases, 1,497 discharged patients and 39 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 91,457 including 63,431 recovered, 22,779 active cases and 5,241 deaths. At least 18 people tested positive at Raj Bhavan (Governor's residence) in Mumbai, after they got themselves tested on their own. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has confirmed the news after conducting their own tests. The building has been sealed and all employees have been asked to self-quarantine. National capital Delhi reported 1,781 new cases, 2,998 recovered patients and 34 deaths on Saturday night. Total number of cases in the national capital is now at 1,10,921, including 87,692 recovered/discharged/migrated, 19,895 active cases and 3,334 deaths. The Delhi Health Department also reported that 21,508 COVID-19 tests were conducted in the national capital on Saturday night — 9,767 RTPCR tests and 11,741 rapid antigen tests. Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

India's COVID-10 tally nears 8.5 lakh with 28,637 new cases

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873.

Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered. So far, 31 COVID-related fatalities have been reported in the state.

According to Kerela`s Health Minister KK Shailaja, out of the 435 positive cases in the last 24 hours, ten healthcare workers were also infected - four in Alappuzha district, two in Thiruvananthapuram district and one each in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Ernakula, Kasargod districts.

In addition, a DSC employee and a CISF personnel in Kannur district also tested positive.

Meanwhile, the number of tests being conducted has increased.

In the last 24 hours, 13,478 samples were analysed.

Thirty new places were declared hotspots while three were exempted taking the total number of hotspots in the State to 222.&nbsp;

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873. Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered.

Kerala`s state health department on Sunday reported 435 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,873. Out of the total figure, 3,743 are active and 4,095 have recovered. So far, 31 COVID-related fatalities have been reported in the state. According to Kerela`s Health Minister KK Shailaja, out of the 435 positive cases in the last 24 hours, ten healthcare workers were also infected - four in Alappuzha district, two in Thiruvananthapuram district and one each in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Ernakula, Kasargod districts. In addition, a DSC employee and a CISF personnel in Kannur district also tested positive. Meanwhile, the number of tests being conducted has increased. In the last 24 hours, 13,478 samples were analysed. Thirty new places were declared hotspots while three were exempted taking the total number of hotspots in the State to 222.

Kerala reports 435 new infections as total coronavirus cases reach 7,873

Congress leader and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Sunday claimed that 30 MLAs are backing him and added, Ashok Gehlot government is in minority in Rajasthan.

Congress leader and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Sunday claimed that 30 MLAs are backing him and added, Ashok Gehlot government is in minority in Rajasthan. Pilot said that he would skip Rajasthan Legislature Party meeting on Monday. Meanwhile, state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot earlier in the day blamed BJP for trying to destabilise the state government by poaching MLAs. Pilot is camping in Delhi to speak to the party leadership regarding the political turmoil in the state. A meeting of Congress Legislative Party will take place at Gehlot`s residence at 10:30 am on Monday. Gehlot has also called a meeting of party MLAs and ministers in Jaipur on Sunday night. Taking to Twitter, Gehlot said that special operations group (SOG) gave notices the Chief Minister, Deputy CM, Chief Whip, some other ministers and MLAs in connection with Congress Legislative Party`s complaint regarding horse-trading by BJP. "CM, Dy CM, Chief Whip, some other ministers & MLAs have received notices from SOG to record their statements in connection with Congress Legislative Party`s complaint regarding horse-trading by BJP. It`s not appropriate to present it differently by some media outlets," Rajasthan CM tweeted. Pilot reportedly sought an appointment with party`s interim president Sonia Gandhi but time for the meeting has not yet been given by her. Avinash Pande, Rajasthan Congress In-charge alleged that BJP is behind the political crisis in the state. "Congress is strongly working together. All MLAs have trust and faith in the party and CM Ashok Gehlot. BJP is deliberately diverting the present situation. This conspiracy has been hatched by BJP & they have been trying this for one year. I can say that all Rajasthan Congress MLAs will work together and Congress government in Rajasthan will complete its five years of tenure," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

Sachin Pilot claims 30 MLAs backing him, says Ashok Gehlot govt is in minority in Rajasthan

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan was admitted to Mumbai's Nanavati Hospital on Saturday evening after he revealed he has tested positive for coronavirus. His actor son Abhishek Bachchan has also tested positive for COVID-19.

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and son Abhishek test positive for COVID-19

India: Diamond studded masks hit the market, stylish masks priced at $5300. Watch this report!

India: Diamond studded masks hit the market, stylish masks priced at $5300

S. Jaishankar speaks at India Global Week 2020: Post pandemic world will be difficult

A day after Amitabh Bachchan and son Abhishek tested coronavirus positive, Amitabh's daughter-in-law or renowned actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and baby Aaradhya have tested positive for the virus.

As 4 members of Bachchan family tests COVID positive, Big b's house Jalsa declared containment zone

The Indian Army to place another order of 72,000 Sig 716 assault rifles from the United States.

The order for the second batch of the assault rifles was placed after the first lot of 72,000 rifles, has already been delivered to the Army for use by troops in Northern Command and other operational areas.

"We are going to place an order for 72,000 more of these rifles under the financial powers granted to the armed forces," Defence sources told ANI.

The Indian Army had received the first lot of Sig Sauer assault rifles to boost its counter-terrorism operations.

India had acquired the rifles under the fast-track procurement (FTP) programme.

The new rifles will replace the existing Indian Small Arms System (Insas) 5.56x45mm rifles used by the forces and manufactured locally by the Ordnance Factories Board.

As per the plan, around 1.5 lakh imported rifles were to be used by the troops in the counter-terrorism operations and frontline duties on the Line of Control (LoC), the remaining forces would be provided with the AK-203 rifles, which are to be produced jointly by India and Russia at Amethi ordnance factory.

The Defence Ministry placed an order of 16,000 light machine guns (LMGs) from Israel recently to do away with the shortage of these guns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Indian Army to place another order of 72,000 Sig 716 assault rifles from the United States. The order for the second batch of the assault rifles was placed after the first lot of 72,000 rifles, has already been delivered to the Army for use by troops in Northern Command and other operational areas.

The Indian Army to place another order of 72,000 Sig 716 assault rifles from the United States. The order for the second batch of the assault rifles was placed after the first lot of 72,000 rifles, has already been delivered to the Army for use by troops in Northern Command and other operational areas. "We are going to place an order for 72,000 more of these rifles under the financial powers granted to the armed forces," Defence sources told ANI. The Indian Army had received the first lot of Sig Sauer assault rifles to boost its counter-terrorism operations. India had acquired the rifles under the fast-track procurement (FTP) programme. The new rifles will replace the existing Indian Small Arms System (Insas) 5.56x45mm rifles used by the forces and manufactured locally by the Ordnance Factories Board. As per the plan, around 1.5 lakh imported rifles were to be used by the troops in the counter-terrorism operations and frontline duties on the Line of Control (LoC), the remaining forces would be provided with the AK-203 rifles, which are to be produced jointly by India and Russia at Amethi ordnance factory. The Defence Ministry placed an order of 16,000 light machine guns (LMGs) from Israel recently to do away with the shortage of these guns. (With inputs from ANI)

Indian Army to place order for 72,000 American assault rifles

Bollywood top actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her 8-year-old daughter tests positive for COVID-19. Yesterday, megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan confirmed positive for COVID-19 and rushed to hospital in Mumbai.

Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her 8-yr-old daughter tests COVID positive

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13&nbsp;around 8.45 pm (IST).

Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July.

During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. &nbsp;

The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels."

It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)."

Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India).

The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR.

Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on.

In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13 around 8.45 pm (IST). Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July. During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels." It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)." Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India). The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR. Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on. In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

At UN, India to highlight localisation of SDGs

An Indian-American has been elected as a Republican delegate for the fifth consecutive term to the party's August convention in Florida that would formally nominate President Donald Trump as its candidate for the November presidential elections.

The Republican National Convention (RNC) in Jacksonville, Florida is scheduled to be held from August 24 to August 27.

Dr Sampat Shivangi, the national president of Indian-American Forum for Political Education and a long-time Republican leader, has been elected to the RNC for the fifth consecutive time.

"This convention and the upcoming presidential election is going to be historic for our nation, possibly for India and to the whole world. I am glad that I can contribute a little, to my beliefs in nation building," he said in a statement on Friday.

"This is my fifth time to be part of the RNC delegation to nominate and help to elect our next president of USA," Shivangi said.

The Indian-American physician was first elected as a delegate at the Republican convention in New York City in 2004, to nominate President George W Bush. In 2008, he was elected as a Republican delegate at Minneapolis to nominate John McCain and in 2012 at Tampa, to nominate Mitt Romney.

In 2016, Shivangi attended the RNC convention in Cleveland, Ohio as a delegate to nominate and elect the current president, Donald Trump.

"It is a great honour to be a part of this historic convention to re-nominate and re-elect Trump for another four years," he said.

"Under President Trump, the United States has made unprecedented progress. Until, we were hit by coronavirus, the US economy was at an all time best. And to top it all, under President Trump, India and Indian-Americans have the best ever friend in the White House," Shivangi said.

An Indian-American has been elected as a Republican delegate for the fifth consecutive term to the party's August convention in Florida that would formally nominate President Donald Trump as its candidate for the November presidential elections.

An Indian-American has been elected as a Republican delegate for the fifth consecutive term to the party's August convention in Florida that would formally nominate President Donald Trump as its candidate for the November presidential elections. The Republican National Convention (RNC) in Jacksonville, Florida is scheduled to be held from August 24 to August 27. Dr Sampat Shivangi, the national president of Indian-American Forum for Political Education and a long-time Republican leader, has been elected to the RNC for the fifth consecutive time. "This convention and the upcoming presidential election is going to be historic for our nation, possibly for India and to the whole world. I am glad that I can contribute a little, to my beliefs in nation building," he said in a statement on Friday. "This is my fifth time to be part of the RNC delegation to nominate and help to elect our next president of USA," Shivangi said. The Indian-American physician was first elected as a delegate at the Republican convention in New York City in 2004, to nominate President George W Bush. In 2008, he was elected as a Republican delegate at Minneapolis to nominate John McCain and in 2012 at Tampa, to nominate Mitt Romney. In 2016, Shivangi attended the RNC convention in Cleveland, Ohio as a delegate to nominate and elect the current president, Donald Trump. "It is a great honour to be a part of this historic convention to re-nominate and re-elect Trump for another four years," he said. "Under President Trump, the United States has made unprecedented progress. Until, we were hit by coronavirus, the US economy was at an all time best. And to top it all, under President Trump, India and Indian-Americans have the best ever friend in the White House," Shivangi said.

Indian-American elected delegate to GOP convention for fifth consecutive time

Swapna Suresh, a key suspect in the Kerala gold smuggling cases, has been taken in custody by National Investigation Agency in Bengaluru. Her family members have also been taken into custody by NIA, which is probing the case.

Swapna Suresh, a key suspect in the Kerala gold smuggling cases, has been taken in custody by National Investigation Agency in Bengaluru. Her family members have also been taken into custody by NIA, which is probing the case. She will be produced at the NIA office in Kochi on Sunday. The Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued nearly Rs.15 crore, in a diplomatic cargo recently. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them. It is alleged that Swapna Suresh, who had earlier worked with the consulate is the kingpin of this gold smuggling racket. Pictures and videos from several Kerala government functions and banquets also show the woman in close proximity with senior government and opposition leaders and other officials. She is said to be facing a crime branch probe for fabricating a complaint against an Air India Official. (With inputs from ANI)

Kerala gold smuggling case accused Swapna Suresh taken into custody

India reported&nbsp;highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths.

Indian Council of Medical Research tested 2,82,511 yesterday. Till now, ICMR has tested 1,13,07,002 samples in total.

Maharashtra, India's worst affected state,&nbsp;reported 7,862 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 2,38,461. The death toll of the state has increased to&nbsp;9,893. Due to a rapid increase in the cases,&nbsp;the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation extended till July 19 in Maharashtra's Kalkan area. Pune, too, has reimposed a lockdown.

Mumbai reported 1,354 new&nbsp;cases and&nbsp;73 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 90,149 including 61,934 recovered, 22,738 active cases and&nbsp;5,202 deaths, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. A otal of 2,183 COVID-19 patients were&nbsp;discharged yesterday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-us-reports-record-single-day-spike-of-nearly-69000-new-cases-312437">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases</a>

India's national capital Delhi, on Friday night, reported 2,089 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 1,09,140. There were 42 deaths reported due to the virus in the last 24 hours which took the death toll to 3,300. The health department reported that 84,694 patients have recovered from the virus in the capital.

Tamil Nadu reported 3,680 new positive cases and 64 deaths, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,30,261 including 46,105 active, 82,324 discharges and 1,829 deaths.

Uttar Pradesh has also reimposed lockdown for the weekend after the state reported 1,347 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 11,024. The death toll has increased to 889.

Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued a statement clearing that the circular is making rounds on social media claiming that a new COVID-19 Monitoring Committee has been formed is fake. "Such a committee has not been set up by the Union Home Ministry. Beware of fake news and rumours," said spokesperson of&nbsp;Ministry of Home Affairs.

India reported highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths.

India reported highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths. Indian Council of Medical Research tested 2,82,511 yesterday. Till now, ICMR has tested 1,13,07,002 samples in total. Maharashtra, India's worst affected state, reported 7,862 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 2,38,461. The death toll of the state has increased to 9,893. Due to a rapid increase in the cases, the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation extended till July 19 in Maharashtra's Kalkan area. Pune, too, has reimposed a lockdown. Mumbai reported 1,354 new cases and 73 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 90,149 including 61,934 recovered, 22,738 active cases and 5,202 deaths, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. A otal of 2,183 COVID-19 patients were discharged yesterday. Also read| COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases India's national capital Delhi, on Friday night, reported 2,089 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 1,09,140. There were 42 deaths reported due to the virus in the last 24 hours which took the death toll to 3,300. The health department reported that 84,694 patients have recovered from the virus in the capital. Tamil Nadu reported 3,680 new positive cases and 64 deaths, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,30,261 including 46,105 active, 82,324 discharges and 1,829 deaths. Uttar Pradesh has also reimposed lockdown for the weekend after the state reported 1,347 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 11,024. The death toll has increased to 889. Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued a statement clearing that the circular is making rounds on social media claiming that a new COVID-19 Monitoring Committee has been formed is fake. "Such a committee has not been set up by the Union Home Ministry. Beware of fake news and rumours," said spokesperson of Ministry of Home Affairs.

India COVID-19 tally crosses 8 lakh with highest single day spike of 27,114 cases

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects.

"Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director.

Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

"He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said.

Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US. Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects. "Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director. Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville. "He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said. Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Indian-American scientist appointed acting head of top US agriculture research organisation

A jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat has come up with masks studded with diamonds that cost between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh.

Jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat sells diamond-studded face masks

Face masks are a new normal in the post coronavirus pandemic-era, and brands famous for accessorising our daily wear have taken to do the same with the face coverings too.

A jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat, to this end, came up with an idea of selling diamond-studded masks ranging between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh.

Dipak Choksi, owner of the jewellery shop, said that he got the idea after a customer who had a wedding at his home came to our shop and demanded unique masks for bride and groom.

"As lockdown was lifted, a customer who had a wedding at his home came to our shop and demanded unique masks for bride and groom. So, we assigned our designers to create masks which the customer later bought. After this, we made a wide range of these masks as people will require them in coming days. Pure diamond and American diamond have been used with gold to make these masks," Choksi told ANI.&nbsp;

"Yellow gold has been used in the mask along with American diamond and it costs Rs 1.5 lakh. Another mask is made with white gold and real diamond, and costs Rs 4 lakh," he added.

The shop owner said that the cloth material of these masks is in accordance with the guideline of the government. He said diamond and gold from these masks can be taken out as per the wish of customers and used it for making other jewellery items.

A customer at the jewellery shop said: "I came to the shop to buy jewellery as there is a marriage in the family. Then I saw diamond masks which look more attractive to me than jewellery. So, I decided to buy it as per my matching dress."&nbsp;

Recently, a man named Shankar Kurade in Pune got himself a mask made of gold worth Rs 2.89 lakh.&nbsp;

Face masks are a new normal in the post coronavirus pandemic-era, and brands famous for accessorising our daily wear have taken to do the same with the face coverings too.

Face masks are a new normal in the post coronavirus pandemic-era, and brands famous for accessorising our daily wear have taken to do the same with the face coverings too. A jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat, to this end, came up with an idea of selling diamond-studded masks ranging between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh. Dipak Choksi, owner of the jewellery shop, said that he got the idea after a customer who had a wedding at his home came to our shop and demanded unique masks for bride and groom. "As lockdown was lifted, a customer who had a wedding at his home came to our shop and demanded unique masks for bride and groom. So, we assigned our designers to create masks which the customer later bought. After this, we made a wide range of these masks as people will require them in coming days. Pure diamond and American diamond have been used with gold to make these masks," Choksi told ANI. "Yellow gold has been used in the mask along with American diamond and it costs Rs 1.5 lakh. Another mask is made with white gold and real diamond, and costs Rs 4 lakh," he added. The shop owner said that the cloth material of these masks is in accordance with the guideline of the government. He said diamond and gold from these masks can be taken out as per the wish of customers and used it for making other jewellery items. A customer at the jewellery shop said: "I came to the shop to buy jewellery as there is a marriage in the family. Then I saw diamond masks which look more attractive to me than jewellery. So, I decided to buy it as per my matching dress." Recently, a man named Shankar Kurade in Pune got himself a mask made of gold worth Rs 2.89 lakh.

Jewellery shop in Gujarat sells diamond-studded face masks worth lakhs

Kerala on Saturday recorded&nbsp;its biggest single-day jump of&nbsp;488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

As many as 234 people were infected through contact, including 57 in Thiruvananthapuram, 51 in Alappuzha, Ernakulam 35, Pathnamthitta 29 and Malappuram 27, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told reporters here.

This is the second consecutive day that the number of cases have crossed the 400 mark.

On Friday, 416 people were infected.

The deaths had occurred at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts on Friday. 
Three health workers were among those who tested positive today.

Totally, 2.33 lakh samples have been collected so far and results of 6,449 samples are awaited.

There are 195 hotspots as of today.

In Thiruvananthapuram, a Quick Response Team has been constituted, comprising police, revenue and health workers which will function round the clock in the worst affected Poonthura fishing hamlet, the Chief Minister said.

&nbsp;

Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities.

Kerala on Saturday recorded its biggest single-day jump of 488 new COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 7,438 as the death toll climbed to 29 with two fatalities. As many as 234 people were infected through contact, including 57 in Thiruvananthapuram, 51 in Alappuzha, Ernakulam 35, Pathnamthitta 29 and Malappuram 27, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told reporters here. This is the second consecutive day that the number of cases have crossed the 400 mark. On Friday, 416 people were infected. The deaths had occurred at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts on Friday. Three health workers were among those who tested positive today. Totally, 2.33 lakh samples have been collected so far and results of 6,449 samples are awaited. There are 195 hotspots as of today. In Thiruvananthapuram, a Quick Response Team has been constituted, comprising police, revenue and health workers which will function round the clock in the worst affected Poonthura fishing hamlet, the Chief Minister said.

488 new cases in Kerala as infection tally touches 7438; 2 deaths

Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to&nbsp;conduct an investigation into cases related to gangster Vikas Dubey.

Dubey was killed in an encounter recently.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The SIT will be headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy. Additional Director General of Police Hariram Sharma and Deputy Inspector General J Raveendra Gour will be members of the team.

The newly constituted SIT will have to submit its report by July 31.

Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard.

He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee".

The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur last week, in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter. 
&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct an investigation into cases related to gangster Vikas Dubey. Dubey was killed in an encounter recently.

Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct an investigation into cases related to gangster Vikas Dubey. Dubey was killed in an encounter recently. The SIT will be headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy. Additional Director General of Police Hariram Sharma and Deputy Inspector General J Raveendra Gour will be members of the team. The newly constituted SIT will have to submit its report by July 31. Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard. He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee". The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur last week, in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter.

UP govt forms SIT to probhe cases related to gangster Vikas Dubey

India's government has petitioned a state court to stop any of the Chinese companies whose 59 apps it recently banned from obtaining an injunction to block the order, according to two sources and the legal filing.

India last month outlawed dozens of Chinese apps including ByteDance's popular video-sharing app TikTok, Alibaba's UC Browser and Tencent's messaging app WeChat, saying they posed a "threat to sovereignty and integrity".

Chinese firms have faced hostility since a border clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers, with Delhi intensifying scrutiny of Chinese imports and any funding from China.

Two sources with direct knowledge of the filing said the government had presented a so-called caveat in the High Court of the western state of Rajasthan, suggesting it expects one or more of the companies to challenge the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's ban.

Such caveats are typically filed to prevent a ruling in favour of companies without hearing the government, Indian lawyers said. The filing, which one of the sources said was presented on Friday, has not previously been reported.

"Let nothing be done till the applicants (government) are heard in the matter," said the court filing signed by Additional Solicitor General of India Rajdeepak Rastogi.

Guarding cyber space&nbsp;

The order to ban the apps was passed to safeguard "the interests of Indian mobile and Internet users and ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian Cyber Space," said the filing, which was seen by Reuters.

It was not immediately clear why the government approached the court in Rajasthan and whether there were plans to file similar petitions elsewhere.

India's IT ministry and the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Indian courts do not comment on cases.

Previously, China has expressed strong concern about the ban, which could hurt expansion plans and cost jobs, and said it may violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

None of the Chinese companies has yet mounted a legal challenge, with industry sources saying they were waiting for further clarity from the Indian government.

India's IT ministry recently asked the companies associated with the 59 apps to answer a detailed questionnaire within three weeks on their business structure and data storage practices, the industry sources told Reuters.

The decision to ban the apps has jolted companies like ByteDance, which counted on India as an important growth market for TikTok and had plans to invest $1 billion in the country.

India's government has petitioned a state court to stop any of the Chinese companies whose 59 apps it recently banned from obtaining an injunction to block the order, according to two sources and the legal filing.

India's government has petitioned a state court to stop any of the Chinese companies whose 59 apps it recently banned from obtaining an injunction to block the order, according to two sources and the legal filing. India last month outlawed dozens of Chinese apps including ByteDance's popular video-sharing app TikTok, Alibaba's UC Browser and Tencent's messaging app WeChat, saying they posed a "threat to sovereignty and integrity". Chinese firms have faced hostility since a border clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers, with Delhi intensifying scrutiny of Chinese imports and any funding from China. Two sources with direct knowledge of the filing said the government had presented a so-called caveat in the High Court of the western state of Rajasthan, suggesting it expects one or more of the companies to challenge the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's ban. Such caveats are typically filed to prevent a ruling in favour of companies without hearing the government, Indian lawyers said. The filing, which one of the sources said was presented on Friday, has not previously been reported. "Let nothing be done till the applicants (government) are heard in the matter," said the court filing signed by Additional Solicitor General of India Rajdeepak Rastogi. Guarding cyber space The order to ban the apps was passed to safeguard "the interests of Indian mobile and Internet users and ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian Cyber Space," said the filing, which was seen by Reuters. It was not immediately clear why the government approached the court in Rajasthan and whether there were plans to file similar petitions elsewhere. India's IT ministry and the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Indian courts do not comment on cases. Previously, China has expressed strong concern about the ban, which could hurt expansion plans and cost jobs, and said it may violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. None of the Chinese companies has yet mounted a legal challenge, with industry sources saying they were waiting for further clarity from the Indian government. India's IT ministry recently asked the companies associated with the 59 apps to answer a detailed questionnaire within three weeks on their business structure and data storage practices, the industry sources told Reuters. The decision to ban the apps has jolted companies like ByteDance, which counted on India as an important growth market for TikTok and had plans to invest $1 billion in the country.

India asks court to stymie potential challenge to Chinese app ban

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news