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Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-face-off-fallout-india-to-strengthen-maritime-alliance-in-indo-pacific-region-310087">Also Read:&nbsp;China face-off fallout: India to strengthen maritime alliance in Indo-Pacific region</a>

"These actions only the confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party," White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Both India and&nbsp;China have expressed the desire to de-escalate," McEnany said adding, "we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation."

India's relations with China hit a new low after the clash at Galwan Valley along LAC&nbsp;on June 15-16 in which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. China hasn't revealed its casualty figures although state-run Global Times had said last month that PLA had suffered casualties as well but it was dismissed by China's foreign ministry.

Amid the standoff at the border, the Indian government on Monday banned 59 apps including Tik Tok over national security issue. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed India's move saying: "We welcome India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state."

"India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted.

Other apps which were also banned include UC browser, ShareIT, WeChat, Weibo, Hello among others. 
&nbsp;

Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world.

Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world." Also Read: China face-off fallout: India to strengthen maritime alliance in Indo-Pacific region "These actions only the confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party," White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said. "We are closely monitoring the situation. Both India and China have expressed the desire to de-escalate," McEnany said adding, "we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation." India's relations with China hit a new low after the clash at Galwan Valley along LAC on June 15-16 in which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. China hasn't revealed its casualty figures although state-run Global Times had said last month that PLA had suffered casualties as well but it was dismissed by China's foreign ministry. Amid the standoff at the border, the Indian government on Monday banned 59 apps including Tik Tok over national security issue. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed India's move saying: "We welcome India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state." "India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted. Other apps which were also banned include UC browser, ShareIT, WeChat, Weibo, Hello among others.

India-China standoff: China's actions confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party, says US

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly.

"India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-india-of-attacking-pakistan-stock-exchange-offers-no-evidence-309702">Also read:&nbsp;Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence</a>

"We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added.

The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems. The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly. "India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks. Also read: Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence "We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added. The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India. Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

MEA says Pak can't blame India for domestic problems; counters Khan for calling Laden as 'martyr'

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories.

Last week, Pakistan announced that general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on August 18.

"We completely reject attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes to the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Such cosmetic exercises are intended to camouflage Pakistan's illegal occupation of Indian territories," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/speaker-of-pakistans-punjab-assembly-speaks-against-building-hindu-temple-calls-it-against-spirit-of-islam-310303">Also read:&nbsp;Speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly speaks against building Hindu temple, calls it against spirit of Islam</a>

"We call upon Pakistan to vacate all Indian territories that are under their illegal occupation," he said. Srivastava was replying to a question on the issue at an online media briefing.

In a recent ruling, the Pakistan Supreme Court allowed Islamabad to amend a 2018 administrative order to conduct general elections in the region. The Gilgit-Baltistan Order of 2018 provided for administrative changes, including authorising the prime minister of Pakistan to legislate on an array of subjects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-extends-support-to-nepal-as-pakistan-struggles-with-its-own-problems-310301">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems</a>

In May, India had issued a demarche to a senior Pakistani diplomat here and lodged a strong protest over the apex court ruling.

India also clearly conveyed to Pakistan that the entire union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of the country.

Srivastava also rejected Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's allegations that there was an India link to the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange in Karachi on Monday.

Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories. Last week, Pakistan announced that general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on August 18. "We completely reject attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes to the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Such cosmetic exercises are intended to camouflage Pakistan's illegal occupation of Indian territories," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said. Also read: Speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly speaks against building Hindu temple, calls it against spirit of Islam "We call upon Pakistan to vacate all Indian territories that are under their illegal occupation," he said. Srivastava was replying to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. In a recent ruling, the Pakistan Supreme Court allowed Islamabad to amend a 2018 administrative order to conduct general elections in the region. The Gilgit-Baltistan Order of 2018 provided for administrative changes, including authorising the prime minister of Pakistan to legislate on an array of subjects. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems In May, India had issued a demarche to a senior Pakistani diplomat here and lodged a strong protest over the apex court ruling. India also clearly conveyed to Pakistan that the entire union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of the country. Srivastava also rejected Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's allegations that there was an India link to the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange in Karachi on Monday. Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

India slams Pak's announcement of holding polls in Gilgit-Baltistan; terms it cosmetic exercise

India reported 19,148 new coronavirus cases and 434 deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of COVID-19 cases rising to 6,04,641 including 2,26,947 active cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-delhi-is-now-discharging-more-patients-than-it-is-admitting-309952">Also Read: Delhi is now discharging more COVID-19 patients than it is admitting</a>

The death toll due to the virus has now surged to 17,834 fatalities in the country.

Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) said today that the total number of COVID-19 samples tested on Wednesday was 90,56,173 with 2,29,588 samples tested till yesterday.

Maharashtra which is the hardest hit due to the virus reported 198 deaths and 5,537 new COVID-19 cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 1,80,298 including 79,075 active cases. The death toll due to the virus has climbed to 8,053. 
&nbsp; 
Pune in Maharashtra reported 1,251 cases and 25 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 23,680.

India's national capital reported 2,442 new coronavirus cases and 61 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 89,802 including 27,007 active cases. The total death toll due to the virus in Delhi has climbed to 2803.

In Madhya Pradesh, 268 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number cases to 1,3861 with the death toll rising to 581 after nine deaths.

In Gujarat, 675 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with 21 deaths with the number of cases rising to 33,318 including 1,869 deaths.

India reported 19,148 new coronavirus cases and 434 deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of COVID-19 cases rising to 6,04,641 including 2,26,947 active cases.

India reported 19,148 new coronavirus cases and 434 deaths in the last 24 hours with the number of COVID-19 cases rising to 6,04,641 including 2,26,947 active cases. Also Read: Delhi is now discharging more COVID-19 patients than it is admitting The death toll due to the virus has now surged to 17,834 fatalities in the country. Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) said today that the total number of COVID-19 samples tested on Wednesday was 90,56,173 with 2,29,588 samples tested till yesterday. Maharashtra which is the hardest hit due to the virus reported 198 deaths and 5,537 new COVID-19 cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 1,80,298 including 79,075 active cases. The death toll due to the virus has climbed to 8,053. Pune in Maharashtra reported 1,251 cases and 25 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 23,680. India's national capital reported 2,442 new coronavirus cases and 61 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 89,802 including 27,007 active cases. The total death toll due to the virus in Delhi has climbed to 2803. In Madhya Pradesh, 268 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number cases to 1,3861 with the death toll rising to 581 after nine deaths. In Gujarat, 675 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with 21 deaths with the number of cases rising to 33,318 including 1,869 deaths.

India reports 19,148 new coronavirus cases, 434 deaths in 24 hours

India’s government on Thursday approved the purchase of 33 Russian fighter jets and upgrades to another 59 planes, acting to beef up its air force at a time when the military is locked in a border stand-off with China.

The approval for 21 MiG-29 planes and a dozen Su-30 jets will together cost 181.48 billion rupees ($2.43 billion), the defence ministry said. The purchase, along with the upgrade of 59 other MiG-29s, was an attempt to address the “long felt need of the Air Force to increase its fighter squadrons.”

Tensions between India and China are at their highest in years following a clash last month in a disputed stretch of the border in the western Himalayas in which India lost 20 soldiers.

The two countries, which fought a brief border war in 1962, have since the recent clash moved additional forces and military equipment into key sections of the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control - the ceasefire line separating the two forces.

The green light for the Russian planes followed a visit to Moscow last month by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh where he urged his hosts to speed up deliveries, officials said.

More than half of India’s military hardware is still of Russian origin even though over the last decade India has turned to the United States and Israel for high-tech arms transfers.

The Defence Ministry also approved the purchase of air-to-air missiles developed indigenously that it said will add to the strike capability of the air force.

India’s government on Thursday approved the purchase of 33 Russian fighter jets and upgrades to another 59 planes, acting to beef up its air force at a time when the military is locked in a border stand-off with China.

India’s government on Thursday approved the purchase of 33 Russian fighter jets and upgrades to another 59 planes, acting to beef up its air force at a time when the military is locked in a border stand-off with China. The approval for 21 MiG-29 planes and a dozen Su-30 jets will together cost 181.48 billion rupees ($2.43 billion), the defence ministry said. The purchase, along with the upgrade of 59 other MiG-29s, was an attempt to address the “long felt need of the Air Force to increase its fighter squadrons.” Tensions between India and China are at their highest in years following a clash last month in a disputed stretch of the border in the western Himalayas in which India lost 20 soldiers. The two countries, which fought a brief border war in 1962, have since the recent clash moved additional forces and military equipment into key sections of the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control - the ceasefire line separating the two forces. The green light for the Russian planes followed a visit to Moscow last month by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh where he urged his hosts to speed up deliveries, officials said. More than half of India’s military hardware is still of Russian origin even though over the last decade India has turned to the United States and Israel for high-tech arms transfers. The Defence Ministry also approved the purchase of air-to-air missiles developed indigenously that it said will add to the strike capability of the air force.

India approves purchase of Russian combat jets worth $2.4 billion

Days after India banned 59 Chinese apps for engaging in activities which are "prejudicial" to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, Beijing on Thursday urged New Delhi to immediately "correct its discriminatory practices" against Chinese companies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-blocks-access-to-wion-website-after-india-bans-59-chinese-apps-310271" hreflang="en">China blocks access to WION website after India bans 59 Chinese apps</a>

India on Monday banned 59 apps with Chinese links, including the hugely popular TikTok and UC Browser, for engaging in "activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order".

The ban also comes in the backdrop of the current stand-off along the Line of Actual control in eastern Ladakh with Chinese troops.

Responding to reports that both countries are strengthening import regulations and suppressing each other's export goods amid the tense border situation and its impact on China's foreign trade enterprises exports to India, Chinese Commerce Ministry Spokesman Gao Feng said that China has not taken any restrictive measures against Indian products and services.

"First of all, I want to clarify that China has not taken any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services,"&nbsp;he said, according to the transcript posted on the ministry's website.

"India's relevant practices violate relevant World Trade Organization rules," Gao said.

The spokesman also expressed hope that "India would immediately correct the discriminatory practices against China and Chinese enterprises."

Announcing its decision to ban 59 apps in view of information available that they are "engaged in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order", India's Information Technology Ministry said the move will "safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace."

The IT ministry statement also said that it has received many complaints from various sources, including several reports about misuse of some mobile apps available on Android and iOS platforms for "stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users' data in an unauthorised manner to servers which have locations outside India".

"The success of China-India economic and trade cooperation is the result of the joint efforts of the governments and enterprises of the two sides and serves the fundamental interests of the two people?, he said.

Gao said, "China attaches great importance to strengthening practical cooperation with India in all fields and hopes that the two sides will meet each other halfway, earnestly implement the economic and trade consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries."

He said the two sides should promote the sound and stable development of bilateral economic and trade cooperation and make efforts for the common prosperity of the two countries and the region at large.

On Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it was ?strongly concerned? over India's move banning 59 Chinese apps.

Days after India banned 59 Chinese apps for engaging in activities which are "prejudicial" to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, Beijing on Thursday urged New Delhi to immediately "correct its discriminatory practices" against Chinese companies.

Days after India banned 59 Chinese apps for engaging in activities which are "prejudicial" to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, Beijing on Thursday urged New Delhi to immediately "correct its discriminatory practices" against Chinese companies. Also read: China blocks access to WION website after India bans 59 Chinese apps India on Monday banned 59 apps with Chinese links, including the hugely popular TikTok and UC Browser, for engaging in "activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order". The ban also comes in the backdrop of the current stand-off along the Line of Actual control in eastern Ladakh with Chinese troops. Responding to reports that both countries are strengthening import regulations and suppressing each other's export goods amid the tense border situation and its impact on China's foreign trade enterprises exports to India, Chinese Commerce Ministry Spokesman Gao Feng said that China has not taken any restrictive measures against Indian products and services. "First of all, I want to clarify that China has not taken any restrictive and discriminatory measures against Indian products and services," he said, according to the transcript posted on the ministry's website. "India's relevant practices violate relevant World Trade Organization rules," Gao said. The spokesman also expressed hope that "India would immediately correct the discriminatory practices against China and Chinese enterprises." Announcing its decision to ban 59 apps in view of information available that they are "engaged in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order", India's Information Technology Ministry said the move will "safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace." The IT ministry statement also said that it has received many complaints from various sources, including several reports about misuse of some mobile apps available on Android and iOS platforms for "stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users' data in an unauthorised manner to servers which have locations outside India". "The success of China-India economic and trade cooperation is the result of the joint efforts of the governments and enterprises of the two sides and serves the fundamental interests of the two people?, he said. Gao said, "China attaches great importance to strengthening practical cooperation with India in all fields and hopes that the two sides will meet each other halfway, earnestly implement the economic and trade consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries." He said the two sides should promote the sound and stable development of bilateral economic and trade cooperation and make efforts for the common prosperity of the two countries and the region at large. On Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it was ?strongly concerned? over India's move banning 59 Chinese apps.

China urges India to 'correct discriminatory practices' against its firms after ban on Chinese apps

Three days ago, the Indian government blocked 59 Chinese apps to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace.

The decision was taken in the wake of a 'violent faceoff' between the Indian Army and Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh. 
&nbsp; 
In retaliation, Beijing has blocked access to&nbsp;the WION&nbsp;website - www.wionews.com - in mainland China.&nbsp;

GreatFire.org, which is a Chinese internet monitoring watchdog, has confirmed that WION has been completely blocked in China. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-backed-global-times-calls-on-wion-to-think-independently-we-respond-303036">Also Read: Chinese state-backed Global Times calls on WION to 'think independently'; We respond!</a>

GreatFire.org has emerged as a database for internet censorship in China and international news outlets and researchers use it to track digital censorship there.

Since the beginning of coronavirus pandemic, WION has reported extensively on China's cover-up, and hence, Beijing expressed its displeasure over this in more ways than one. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-is-exposed-thanks-to-global-times-editor-308876">Also Read: China is exposed. Thanks to Global Times editor</a>

In March, the spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry,- Zhao Lijian, blocked WION on the social networking site Twitter. Chinese diplomats in India too criticised WION's coverage of the pandemic.

In June, a piece in the Global Times named WION, asking the channel to "think independently." The publication is perceived as the lifeline of Beijing’s propaganda machinery.

It's no secret that China doesn't like the idea of a free press and the ban on WION is part of the same strategy of press censorship.

&nbsp;

Three days ago, the Indian government blocked 59 Chinese apps to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace. The decision was taken in the wake of a 'violent faceoff' between the Indian Army and Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh.

Three days ago, the Indian government blocked 59 Chinese apps to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace. The decision was taken in the wake of a 'violent faceoff' between the Indian Army and Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh. In retaliation, Beijing has blocked access to the WION website - www.wionews.com - in mainland China. GreatFire.org, which is a Chinese internet monitoring watchdog, has confirmed that WION has been completely blocked in China. Also Read: Chinese state-backed Global Times calls on WION to 'think independently'; We respond! GreatFire.org has emerged as a database for internet censorship in China and international news outlets and researchers use it to track digital censorship there. Since the beginning of coronavirus pandemic, WION has reported extensively on China's cover-up, and hence, Beijing expressed its displeasure over this in more ways than one. Also Read: China is exposed. Thanks to Global Times editor In March, the spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry,- Zhao Lijian, blocked WION on the social networking site Twitter. Chinese diplomats in India too criticised WION's coverage of the pandemic. In June, a piece in the Global Times named WION, asking the channel to "think independently." The publication is perceived as the lifeline of Beijing’s propaganda machinery. It's no secret that China doesn't like the idea of a free press and the ban on WION is part of the same strategy of press censorship.

China blocks access to WION website after India bans 59 Chinese apps

All ASI protected monuments will be reopened for the public from July 6 with entry only through e-tickets, a cap on the number of visitors and mandatory wearing of masks, the culture ministry said on Thursday.

Earlier in June, the ministry had reopened 820 monuments out of the over 3,000 ASI-maintained monuments where religious events take place.

As many as 3,691 Centrally-protected monuments and archaeological sites maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) were shut from March 17 in view of the coronavirus crisis.

The minister said all coronavirus-related protocols issued by the Union health ministry would be followed by the monument authorities.

In a tweet, Culture Minister Prahlad Patel said, "I have taken a decision along with the ministry of culture and the ASI to open all monuments from July 6."

This, however, will be done with the compliance of the state and district administration. 
The culture ministry issued a set of protocols, saying only those monuments which are in non-containment zones will be reopened.

Entry tickets shall be issued by e-mode and only e-payments will be acceptable at the monument parking and cafeteria.

"There will be a cap on the number of visitors in select monuments... The visitors shall follow social distancing. The use of face cover/mask is mandatory. Entrance to have mandatory hand hygiene and thermal scanning provisions. Only asymptomatic persons are allowed.&nbsp;

There shall be designated routes for entry &amp; exit and movement within the monument," according to the standard operating procedure (SOP) issued by the ministry.

The visiting hours have been divided into two slots with visitors at most monuments being capped at 1000 per slot depending upon the footfall they receive, the SOP said.

While the visitors at Taj Mahal in Agra have been capped at 2500 per slot, at Delhi's Qutub Minar and Red Fort, a maximum of 1500 visitors will be allowed per slot.

At the Agra Fort in Agra and Sun Temple in Bhubneshwar, visitors have been capped at 1200-1300 per slot.

At the entrance of every monument /site, all visitors shall share their phone numbers with the person designated for the purpose by the ASI to help in contact tracing if and when required.

The ASI can restrict access to vulnerable and interior parts of any monument while visitors shall be asked to stick to the time limits inside the monument, as far as possible, the ministry said.

No group photography and food or eatables shall be allowed inside the premises, it said.

"Cleaning and sanitisation of monuments and museums including toilet blocks, benches and frequently used surfaces shall be done at regular intervals," it said.

According to sources, the culture ministry will also open it museums from July 6.&nbsp;

All ASI protected monuments will be reopened for the public from July 6 with entry only through e-tickets, a cap on the number of visitors and mandatory wearing of masks, the culture ministry said on Thursday.

All ASI protected monuments will be reopened for the public from July 6 with entry only through e-tickets, a cap on the number of visitors and mandatory wearing of masks, the culture ministry said on Thursday. Earlier in June, the ministry had reopened 820 monuments out of the over 3,000 ASI-maintained monuments where religious events take place. As many as 3,691 Centrally-protected monuments and archaeological sites maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) were shut from March 17 in view of the coronavirus crisis. The minister said all coronavirus-related protocols issued by the Union health ministry would be followed by the monument authorities. In a tweet, Culture Minister Prahlad Patel said, "I have taken a decision along with the ministry of culture and the ASI to open all monuments from July 6." This, however, will be done with the compliance of the state and district administration. The culture ministry issued a set of protocols, saying only those monuments which are in non-containment zones will be reopened. Entry tickets shall be issued by e-mode and only e-payments will be acceptable at the monument parking and cafeteria. "There will be a cap on the number of visitors in select monuments... The visitors shall follow social distancing. The use of face cover/mask is mandatory. Entrance to have mandatory hand hygiene and thermal scanning provisions. Only asymptomatic persons are allowed. There shall be designated routes for entry & exit and movement within the monument," according to the standard operating procedure (SOP) issued by the ministry. The visiting hours have been divided into two slots with visitors at most monuments being capped at 1000 per slot depending upon the footfall they receive, the SOP said. While the visitors at Taj Mahal in Agra have been capped at 2500 per slot, at Delhi's Qutub Minar and Red Fort, a maximum of 1500 visitors will be allowed per slot. At the Agra Fort in Agra and Sun Temple in Bhubneshwar, visitors have been capped at 1200-1300 per slot. At the entrance of every monument /site, all visitors shall share their phone numbers with the person designated for the purpose by the ASI to help in contact tracing if and when required. The ASI can restrict access to vulnerable and interior parts of any monument while visitors shall be asked to stick to the time limits inside the monument, as far as possible, the ministry said. No group photography and food or eatables shall be allowed inside the premises, it said. "Cleaning and sanitisation of monuments and museums including toilet blocks, benches and frequently used surfaces shall be done at regular intervals," it said. According to sources, the culture ministry will also open it museums from July 6.

ASI monuments to be reopened from July 6; visitors to be capped, masks mandatory

India and China will continue with the dialogue process in the Chushul sector. Commander level talks lasted for over 11 hours. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: India-China will continue to meet on LAC issue | Chushul sector | India-China standoff

Countries around the world are not only speaking up against the Chinese wrongdoings but also stepping up their defences. They are punishing China in every possible way, some are taking the business route, and others are preparing their military.

The United States has hit China's Technological power and banned Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE corporations.

Washington has said that Huawei, ZTE, their parent companies and subsidiaries are all 'national security threats', so the companies will no longer be allowed to function in the United States.

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The tussle between Washington, Huawei and ZTE is almost a decade old, the first US action against them dates back to 2012.

The Obama administration had blacklisted ZTE, trump had slapped ZTE with a 1.3 billion fine.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday applauded India’s sweeping ban on Chinese apps including TikTok, saying New Delhi was ensuring its own security.

“We welcome India’s ban on certain mobile apps” from China, Pompeo told reporters, saying the move would “boost India’s integrity and national security.”

China's new enemy Australia

Canberra is increasing its defence spending to counter the rise of China. Canberra has committed to 270 billion dollars in defence spending over the next 10 years. The plan is to build a larger military.

One that is focused on its immediate backyard. Over the next four years, Australia will add at least 800 more people to its defence force.650 of them will join the navy, 100 people will be added to the air force and the army will get 50 new men.

So, Australia is preparing to take on China on the high seas if provoked and Scott Morrison is not being shy about it.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison saying: “Australia will invest in longer-range strike weapons, cyber capabilities and area denial. As mentioned we are expanding our plans to acquire long-range, maritime and land strike capabilities and to invest in more highly integrated sensors and weapons.”

China has not just stolen information through technology or been a bullying trade partner. China has also stolen land. 
&nbsp; 
China is currently guilty of grabbing land from 18 countries. The dragon is a repeat offender, it is engaged in land disputes around the world. 
 
China is engaged in a land dispute with Japan. Over parts of the South China Sea. Especially Senkaku islands and the Ryukyu Islands.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
China also has land disputes with Vietnam at the South China Sea. Goes without saying that the dragon has occupied 38,000 sq Km of India’s Aksai China. Beijing also stakes a claim on Arunachal and Ladakh.

Beijing claims parts of Nepal dating back to the Sino-Nepalese war. China has a land dispute with North Korea. Beijing says Baekdu Mountain and Jiandao belongs to belongs China. With the Philippines — China is engaged in a tussle over parts of the South China Sea.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Russia too has not to be spared, China has grabbed 160,000 square kilometres of the Russian land.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
This list again is long, Charting out China's land grab would mean sitting here all night. Apart from the countries, I have already mentioned. China has also staked a claim in territories belonging to Singapore.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
South Korea, Bhutan, Taiwan, Laos, Brunei, Tajikistan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Mongolia. That makes it a total of 18 countries and this is China's land grabs alone.

Throw in its trade wars, diplomatic battles and you would hardly be left with any countries that China has not rubbed the wrong way. So, it is safe to say. There is a global chorus against China and Beijing's censuring was a long time coming.

Countries around the world are not only speaking up against the Chinese wrongdoings but also stepping up their defences. They are punishing China in every possible way, some are taking the business route, and others are preparing their military.

Countries around the world are not only speaking up against the Chinese wrongdoings but also stepping up their defences. They are punishing China in every possible way, some are taking the business route, and others are preparing their military. The United States has hit China's Technological power and banned Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE corporations. Washington has said that Huawei, ZTE, their parent companies and subsidiaries are all 'national security threats', so the companies will no longer be allowed to function in the United States. The tussle between Washington, Huawei and ZTE is almost a decade old, the first US action against them dates back to 2012. The Obama administration had blacklisted ZTE, trump had slapped ZTE with a 1.3 billion fine. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday applauded India’s sweeping ban on Chinese apps including TikTok, saying New Delhi was ensuring its own security. “We welcome India’s ban on certain mobile apps” from China, Pompeo told reporters, saying the move would “boost India’s integrity and national security.” China's new enemy Australia Canberra is increasing its defence spending to counter the rise of China. Canberra has committed to 270 billion dollars in defence spending over the next 10 years. The plan is to build a larger military. One that is focused on its immediate backyard. Over the next four years, Australia will add at least 800 more people to its defence force.650 of them will join the navy, 100 people will be added to the air force and the army will get 50 new men. So, Australia is preparing to take on China on the high seas if provoked and Scott Morrison is not being shy about it. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison saying: “Australia will invest in longer-range strike weapons, cyber capabilities and area denial. As mentioned we are expanding our plans to acquire long-range, maritime and land strike capabilities and to invest in more highly integrated sensors and weapons.” China has not just stolen information through technology or been a bullying trade partner. China has also stolen land. China is currently guilty of grabbing land from 18 countries. The dragon is a repeat offender, it is engaged in land disputes around the world. China is engaged in a land dispute with Japan. Over parts of the South China Sea. Especially Senkaku islands and the Ryukyu Islands. China also has land disputes with Vietnam at the South China Sea. Goes without saying that the dragon has occupied 38,000 sq Km of India’s Aksai China. Beijing also stakes a claim on Arunachal and Ladakh. Beijing claims parts of Nepal dating back to the Sino-Nepalese war. China has a land dispute with North Korea. Beijing says Baekdu Mountain and Jiandao belongs to belongs China. With the Philippines — China is engaged in a tussle over parts of the South China Sea. Russia too has not to be spared, China has grabbed 160,000 square kilometres of the Russian land. This list again is long, Charting out China's land grab would mean sitting here all night. Apart from the countries, I have already mentioned. China has also staked a claim in territories belonging to Singapore. South Korea, Bhutan, Taiwan, Laos, Brunei, Tajikistan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Mongolia. That makes it a total of 18 countries and this is China's land grabs alone. Throw in its trade wars, diplomatic battles and you would hardly be left with any countries that China has not rubbed the wrong way. So, it is safe to say. There is a global chorus against China and Beijing's censuring was a long time coming.

India must take a strong stand against China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms.

In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said.

The constitutional reforms approved in a nationwide vote by 77.92 per cent of Russian voters could allow Putin to extend his rule until 2036.

That means that the 67-year-old former KGB officer, who has ruled Russia for over two decades as either president or prime minister, could be in power until he is 83.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-voters-overwhelmingly-back-putins-reform-plan-to-rule-until-2036-310054">Also read |&nbsp;Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036</a>

Modi's congratulations stand in contrast to expressions of concern in both Washington and Brussels.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Thursday hailed as a triumph the result of the nationwide vote that handed Putin the right to run for two more terms, but an independent monitoring group said the vote had not been free and the outcome was flawed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms. In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin after a nationwide vote on constitutional reforms. In a phone call, Modi "warmly congratulated" President Putin on the success of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Second World War, and also for successful completion of the vote on constitutional amendments in Russia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, said. The constitutional reforms approved in a nationwide vote by 77.92 per cent of Russian voters could allow Putin to extend his rule until 2036. That means that the 67-year-old former KGB officer, who has ruled Russia for over two decades as either president or prime minister, could be in power until he is 83. Also read | Russian voters overwhelmingly back Putin's reform plan to rule until 2036 Modi's congratulations stand in contrast to expressions of concern in both Washington and Brussels. Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Thursday hailed as a triumph the result of the nationwide vote that handed Putin the right to run for two more terms, but an independent monitoring group said the vote had not been free and the outcome was flawed.

PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

Under the "Mission Sagar", the ship sailed on May 10 and came back to India on June 28. A ministry of external affairs release said the aim of the mission was to "deliver assistance to our maritime neighbours in dealing with the COVID crisis. India’s humanitarian assistance included supplies of essential food items, medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and deployment of Medical Assistance Teams (MAT) to Mauritius and Comoros.".&nbsp;

The Indian ship received a warm welcome to countries where it went. The first destination was the Maldives where the consignment was formally handed over by the Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in an online ceremony, attended by Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi.&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Solih in a tweet said, "During the COVID crisis, India has been a true friend to the Maldives. India's recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times."

The secnd destination was Mauritius were it was received by the Minister for Health of Mauritius, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal with the consignments handed over to him by Indian High Commissioner Tanmaya Lal. Pravind Jugnauth, Mauritius PM conveyed his country's gratitude to India over the phone to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in a tweet said, "Our relationship with India will always be special as it is based on mutual trust and common values."&nbsp;

By end of May, the ship had reached Madagascar were it was welcomed by Foreign Minister of the country Tehindrazanarivelo Liva Djacoba in the presence of Indian envoy Abhay Kumar.

From Madagascar, it went to Comoros and was received by the Minister of Health, Solidarity, Social Protection and Gender Promotion of Comoros Loub Yacout Zaidu. The president of the country Azali Assoumani in a tweet said, "In the name of the Comorian people, I am very thankful to #India for the arrival of a Medical Assistance Team and medicines today in Moroni to help us fight COVID19 and Dengue."

"The assistance marks the strengthening of the cooperation and the relationship."&nbsp;

The last stop was Seychelles. On June 7, 2020, in a handing over ceremony organised the same day, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Blue Economy, Amb. Barry Faure and Secretary of State for Health, Amb. Marie Lloyd jointly received the consignment on behalf of Government of Seychelles from the High Commissioner of India Dalbir Singh Suhag.

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

Indian navy ship INS Kesari travelled over 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days and delivered aid to five countries -- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles -- amid the coronavirus crisis. Under the "Mission Sagar", the ship sailed on May 10 and came back to India on June 28. A ministry of external affairs release said the aim of the mission was to "deliver assistance to our maritime neighbours in dealing with the COVID crisis. India’s humanitarian assistance included supplies of essential food items, medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and deployment of Medical Assistance Teams (MAT) to Mauritius and Comoros.". The Indian ship received a warm welcome to countries where it went. The first destination was the Maldives where the consignment was formally handed over by the Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir in an online ceremony, attended by Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi. Maldives President Ibrahim Solih in a tweet said, "During the COVID crisis, India has been a true friend to the Maldives. India's recent gift of essential food supplies is particularly helpful during these challenging times." The secnd destination was Mauritius were it was received by the Minister for Health of Mauritius, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal with the consignments handed over to him by Indian High Commissioner Tanmaya Lal. Pravind Jugnauth, Mauritius PM conveyed his country's gratitude to India over the phone to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in a tweet said, "Our relationship with India will always be special as it is based on mutual trust and common values." By end of May, the ship had reached Madagascar were it was welcomed by Foreign Minister of the country Tehindrazanarivelo Liva Djacoba in the presence of Indian envoy Abhay Kumar. From Madagascar, it went to Comoros and was received by the Minister of Health, Solidarity, Social Protection and Gender Promotion of Comoros Loub Yacout Zaidu. The president of the country Azali Assoumani in a tweet said, "In the name of the Comorian people, I am very thankful to #India for the arrival of a Medical Assistance Team and medicines today in Moroni to help us fight COVID19 and Dengue." "The assistance marks the strengthening of the cooperation and the relationship." The last stop was Seychelles. On June 7, 2020, in a handing over ceremony organised the same day, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Blue Economy, Amb. Barry Faure and Secretary of State for Health, Amb. Marie Lloyd jointly received the consignment on behalf of Government of Seychelles from the High Commissioner of India Dalbir Singh Suhag.

INS Kesari travels 7,500 nautical miles in over 55 days to deliver coronavirus aid

Maharashtra is the worst-affected state by coronavirus in India, with Mumbai as the epicentre. With a consistent surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases, Maharashtra's health Minister Rajesh Tope has claimed that there is no community spread of the virus in the state.

On Thursday, he said in a press conference,&nbsp;"I don't think that there is community spread in the state. At least, as of today, we are of the opinion that we do not have community spread here. Most of the cases which are coming positive are of people who are either under institutional quarantine, home quarantine or with some contact history."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-covid-19-cases-up-by-4878-to-over-174-lakh-toll-7855-309742">Also read:&nbsp;Maharashtra COVID-19 cases up by 4,878 to over 1.74 lakh; toll 7,855</a>

Talking about extending the lockdown, Tope cleared the air by saying that there are no plans to re-impose or extend the lockdown. Instead, he stated that the state government is planning to relax the lockdown in phases, even though they are expecting an increase in the cases. He also hinted towards a phase-wise unlock very soon.

"We are seeing a lot of places where flattening of the curve has started like Sangli, Malegaon, and Solapur etc. Spread will increase it`s true, but we can`t close down everything including stopping economic activities. But there are certain places where lockdown can be imposed locally to contain the spread," he said.

He also added that the anti-viral drugs&nbsp;Remdesivir and&nbsp;Favipiravir will be made available in all districts of the state soon. The medicines will be free of cost in the government hospitals.

Maharashtra, by the end of July 01,&nbsp;had a total of 1,80,298 cases, including 8,053 fatalities.

Maharashtra is the worst-affected state by coronavirus in India, with Mumbai as the epicentre. With a consistent surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases, Maharashtra's health Minister Rajesh Tope has claimed that there is no community spread of the virus in the state.

Maharashtra is the worst-affected state by coronavirus in India, with Mumbai as the epicentre. With a consistent surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases, Maharashtra's health Minister Rajesh Tope has claimed that there is no community spread of the virus in the state. On Thursday, he said in a press conference, "I don't think that there is community spread in the state. At least, as of today, we are of the opinion that we do not have community spread here. Most of the cases which are coming positive are of people who are either under institutional quarantine, home quarantine or with some contact history." Also read: Maharashtra COVID-19 cases up by 4,878 to over 1.74 lakh; toll 7,855 Talking about extending the lockdown, Tope cleared the air by saying that there are no plans to re-impose or extend the lockdown. Instead, he stated that the state government is planning to relax the lockdown in phases, even though they are expecting an increase in the cases. He also hinted towards a phase-wise unlock very soon. "We are seeing a lot of places where flattening of the curve has started like Sangli, Malegaon, and Solapur etc. Spread will increase it`s true, but we can`t close down everything including stopping economic activities. But there are certain places where lockdown can be imposed locally to contain the spread," he said. He also added that the anti-viral drugs Remdesivir and Favipiravir will be made available in all districts of the state soon. The medicines will be free of cost in the government hospitals. Maharashtra, by the end of July 01, had a total of 1,80,298 cases, including 8,053 fatalities.

No community spread of virus in Maharashtra, claims Health Minister Rajesh Tope

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates&nbsp;India's role as positive in Afghanistan --&nbsp;as the "largest donor" to the country.

Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, &nbsp;Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process."

On the issue of counter-terror, the report said, "India works with regional state actors, the Afghan Government&nbsp;and Afghan power brokers to prevent transnational terrorist safe havens, and maintain access to Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asian markets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/want-peaceful-democratic-afghanistan-with-rights-for-women-minorities-khalid-noor-310052">Also read| Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor</a>

At $3 billion, India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan since 2001. Indian aid to Afghanistan focuses primarily on four main categories-- humanitarian assistance, &nbsp;major infrastructure projects, small and community-based projects and education and capacity development.&nbsp;

But the report warned, "A significant deterioration of security conditions in Afghanistan, however, may adversely affect the ability of India to provide aid."

India has built the Afghan parliament, the India Afghan friendship dam in Herat province and provided scholarship to Afghan students. To increase connectivity, India has started the India-Afghanistan air corridor and via Chabahar provided connectivity via Iran. India also committed to taking up 116 High Impact Community Development Projects in 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

These important investments will be in the areas of education, health, agriculture, irrigation, drinking water, renewable energy, flood control, micro-hydro power, sports and administrative infrastructure.

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates India's role as positive in Afghanistan -- as the "largest donor" to the country. Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process.

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates India's role as positive in Afghanistan -- as the "largest donor" to the country. Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process." On the issue of counter-terror, the report said, "India works with regional state actors, the Afghan Government and Afghan power brokers to prevent transnational terrorist safe havens, and maintain access to Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asian markets." Also read| Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor At $3 billion, India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan since 2001. Indian aid to Afghanistan focuses primarily on four main categories-- humanitarian assistance, major infrastructure projects, small and community-based projects and education and capacity development. But the report warned, "A significant deterioration of security conditions in Afghanistan, however, may adversely affect the ability of India to provide aid." India has built the Afghan parliament, the India Afghan friendship dam in Herat province and provided scholarship to Afghan students. To increase connectivity, India has started the India-Afghanistan air corridor and via Chabahar provided connectivity via Iran. India also committed to taking up 116 High Impact Community Development Projects in 34 provinces of Afghanistan. These important investments will be in the areas of education, health, agriculture, irrigation, drinking water, renewable energy, flood control, micro-hydro power, sports and administrative infrastructure.

Pentagon sees India's role as positive in Afghanistan

Indian Home Ministry has asked the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), also known as the paramilitary forces regarding the recruitment of transgender as Assistant Commandants.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ins-kesari-travels-75000-nautical-miles-in-over-55-days-to-deliver-coronavirus-aid-310214" hreflang="en">INS Kesari travels 75,000 nautical miles in over 55 days to deliver coronavirus aid</a>

The ministry is planning to commission transgenders as officers in Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

Sources in the security establishment told PTI that with the central government notifying the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in December last year it is now essential to provide transgenders with a "level playing field" in all avenues and services including combat policing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-spread-of-virus-in-maharashtra-claims-health-minister-rajesh-tope-310216" hreflang="en">No community spread of virus in Maharashtra, claims Health Minister Rajesh Tope</a>

The ministry has urged the five CAPFs to "comment" in favour or against the recruitment of the third gender.&nbsp;

A senior CAPF commander privy to the development said the forces have discussed the "challenges and opportunities" that can come with transgenders in the officer ranks. 
"What we have found after the preliminary analysis is that this is a watershed moment for the CAPFs like a few years ago when women were recruited for the first time in the constabulary and officer ranks."

"The transgenders will add to the rich profile of these forces. Also, if uniformed forces will not lead by example how can we expect other sections of the society to shed old inhibitions?" he said.

According to the CAPF commander, accepting the transgenders could be difficult for the troops initially but like women, they can connect well with colleagues and commanders in these forces.&nbsp;

He went on to say that the force would not have to build the additional infrastructure of the third gender as all existing living units and toilets are gender-neutral.

(Inputs from PTI)

Indian Home Ministry has asked the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), also known as the paramilitary forces regarding the recruitment of transgender as Assistant Commandants.

Indian Home Ministry has asked the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), also known as the paramilitary forces regarding the recruitment of transgender as Assistant Commandants. Also read: INS Kesari travels 75,000 nautical miles in over 55 days to deliver coronavirus aid The ministry is planning to commission transgenders as officers in Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Sources in the security establishment told PTI that with the central government notifying the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in December last year it is now essential to provide transgenders with a "level playing field" in all avenues and services including combat policing. Also read: No community spread of virus in Maharashtra, claims Health Minister Rajesh Tope The ministry has urged the five CAPFs to "comment" in favour or against the recruitment of the third gender. A senior CAPF commander privy to the development said the forces have discussed the "challenges and opportunities" that can come with transgenders in the officer ranks. "What we have found after the preliminary analysis is that this is a watershed moment for the CAPFs like a few years ago when women were recruited for the first time in the constabulary and officer ranks." "The transgenders will add to the rich profile of these forces. Also, if uniformed forces will not lead by example how can we expect other sections of the society to shed old inhibitions?" he said. According to the CAPF commander, accepting the transgenders could be difficult for the troops initially but like women, they can connect well with colleagues and commanders in these forces. He went on to say that the force would not have to build the additional infrastructure of the third gender as all existing living units and toilets are gender-neutral. (Inputs from PTI)

Transgenders may soon be recruited as CAPF combat officers: Ministry of Home Affairs

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident.

The Indian Navy has steadily developed the capability of being able to monitor movements through the Indian Ocean region, and interdict them as and when required.

As far as People's Liberation Army Navy units are concerned, there are only a few straits through which they can enter the Indian Ocean, which can be kept under continuous surveillance.

Meanwhile, India in 2015 had articulated its strategic vision under the acronym SAGAR --Security And Growth for All in the Region. It seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours and assist them in building maritime security capabilities. It is part of strengthening cooperation with littoral states.&nbsp;

While it is unlikely that any Galwan Valley-type misadventure by the Chinese forces could happen at sea, chances of strong response will be in offing.&nbsp;

China has developed ports in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Djibouti etc which could also be put to dual-use by the PLA Navy, Coast Guard and Maritime Militia. While they are part of the belt and road (BRI) infrastructure project, it can impact countries hosting them.

China claims that participating countries stand to gain 2-3 per cent increase in their GDP and reduction in transportation tariffs, by participating in BRI. But this is known to be a debt trap with countries unable to repay loans leading to losses, some time territorial.&nbsp;

A big worry for Beijing is that India is not a member of BRI, but is strategically placed as well as is militarily capable of threatening both the 'Belt' in Occupied-Ladakh and the 'Road' in the Indian Ocean, should the need arise. China's prospects of succeeding in their BRI endeavour, therefore, revolve around breaching this 'Great Wall of India'.&nbsp;

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has also been pushing towards the West using its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was announced in 2013. BRI aims to undertake infrastructure development and investment to strengthen China's connectivity with over 70 countries across the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe.

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident.

With increased Chinese combativeness, the Indian Navy has increased the monitoring of vessels in the Indian Ocean. Indian navy, as are the other services -- Army and Air Force, is in the heightened state of alert in the aftermath of the Galwan valley incident. The Indian Navy has steadily developed the capability of being able to monitor movements through the Indian Ocean region, and interdict them as and when required. As far as People's Liberation Army Navy units are concerned, there are only a few straits through which they can enter the Indian Ocean, which can be kept under continuous surveillance. Meanwhile, India in 2015 had articulated its strategic vision under the acronym SAGAR --Security And Growth for All in the Region. It seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours and assist them in building maritime security capabilities. It is part of strengthening cooperation with littoral states. While it is unlikely that any Galwan Valley-type misadventure by the Chinese forces could happen at sea, chances of strong response will be in offing. China has developed ports in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Djibouti etc which could also be put to dual-use by the PLA Navy, Coast Guard and Maritime Militia. While they are part of the belt and road (BRI) infrastructure project, it can impact countries hosting them. China claims that participating countries stand to gain 2-3 per cent increase in their GDP and reduction in transportation tariffs, by participating in BRI. But this is known to be a debt trap with countries unable to repay loans leading to losses, some time territorial. A big worry for Beijing is that India is not a member of BRI, but is strategically placed as well as is militarily capable of threatening both the 'Belt' in Occupied-Ladakh and the 'Road' in the Indian Ocean, should the need arise. China's prospects of succeeding in their BRI endeavour, therefore, revolve around breaching this 'Great Wall of India'. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has also been pushing towards the West using its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was announced in 2013. BRI aims to undertake infrastructure development and investment to strengthen China's connectivity with over 70 countries across the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe.

Indian Navy increases monitoring of vessels in Indian Ocean

The Indian arm of global consumer giant Unilever said on Thursday its much-criticised skin cream ‘Fair &amp; Lovely’ would now be rebranded as ‘Glow &amp; Lovely’.

Its skin cream for men will be called ‘Glow &amp; Handsome’, Hindustan Unilever said -- a week after announcing it would rename its skin lightening cream that has drawn flak for promoting negative stereotypes related to darker skin tones.

Skin lightening cosmetics have a huge market in South Asia, but their promotion is being questioned, especially in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Hindustan Unilever on June 25 said it would stop using the word ‘Fair’ in the brand, adding that the new name for the cream was awaiting regulatory approvals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unilever-to-remove-whitening-and-fairness-shaadicom-removes-fairness-filter-308502">Also read |&nbsp;Unilever to remove 'whitening' and 'fairness'; Shaadi.com removes fairness filter</a>

Earlier this month, Johnson &amp; Johnson said it would stop selling skin-whitening creams in Asia and the Middle East, while PepsiCo said it would change the name and brand image of its Aunt Jemima pancake mix and syrup.

Unilever’s “Fair &amp; Lovely” brand dominates the market in South Asia. Similar products are also sold by L’Oréal and Procter &amp; Gamble.

In India, the biggest market for “Fair &amp; Lovely”, fairness products have long been endorsed by leading Bollywood celebrities, as well as other youth icons.

Adverts have regularly featured two faces showing skin tone transformation, as well as shade guides to show “improvement”.

The Indian arm of global consumer giant Unilever said on Thursday its much-criticised skin cream ‘Fair & Lovely’ would now be rebranded as ‘Glow & Lovely’. Its skin cream for men will be called ‘Glow & Handsome’, Hindustan Unilever said -- a week after announcing it would rename its skin lightening cream that has drawn flak for promoting negative stereotypes related to darker skin tones.

The Indian arm of global consumer giant Unilever said on Thursday its much-criticised skin cream ‘Fair & Lovely’ would now be rebranded as ‘Glow & Lovely’. Its skin cream for men will be called ‘Glow & Handsome’, Hindustan Unilever said -- a week after announcing it would rename its skin lightening cream that has drawn flak for promoting negative stereotypes related to darker skin tones. Skin lightening cosmetics have a huge market in South Asia, but their promotion is being questioned, especially in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. Hindustan Unilever on June 25 said it would stop using the word ‘Fair’ in the brand, adding that the new name for the cream was awaiting regulatory approvals. Also read | Unilever to remove 'whitening' and 'fairness'; Shaadi.com removes fairness filter Earlier this month, Johnson & Johnson said it would stop selling skin-whitening creams in Asia and the Middle East, while PepsiCo said it would change the name and brand image of its Aunt Jemima pancake mix and syrup. Unilever’s “Fair & Lovely” brand dominates the market in South Asia. Similar products are also sold by L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble. In India, the biggest market for “Fair & Lovely”, fairness products have long been endorsed by leading Bollywood celebrities, as well as other youth icons. Adverts have regularly featured two faces showing skin tone transformation, as well as shade guides to show “improvement”.

Hindustan Unilever to rename skin lightening cream to 'Glow & Lovely'

India has opened up its vast railway sector to private companies, allowing firms to operate trains on certain routes -- in a bid to boost its virus-hit economy.

In an announcement on Wednesday, the railway ministry said it would now permit businesses to run trains along 109 routes, inviting bids from firms. This has come in the aftermath of New Delhi opened up coal mining to the private sector.

"This is the first initiative of private investment for running passenger trains over Indian Railways network," the ministry said in a statement.

"The objective of this initiative is to introduce modern technology rolling stock with reduced maintenance, reduced transit time, boost job creation, provide enhanced safety, provide world class travel experience to passengers," it added.

The project will require an investment of $39.8 million and private players will have to pay the government fixed haul charges and a percentage of profits determined during the bidding process.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought to privatise a range of industries that have been under state control for decades, sparking criticism from the opposition Congress party.

Asia's third-largest economy has been clobbered by the pandemic and a months-long lockdown, growing at its slowest pace in at least two decades last quarter. The shutdown, which put millions out of work overnight, is widely expected to plunge the country into recession.&nbsp;

Fears for the economy prompted the government to allow many businesses to resume operations starting last month despite an ongoing increase in infections, which have now crossed 6,00,000.

India has opened up its vast railway sector to private companies, allowing firms to operate trains on certain routes -- in a bid to boost its virus-hit economy. In an announcement on Wednesday, the railway ministry said it would now permit businesses to run trains along 109 routes, inviting bids from firms.

India has opened up its vast railway sector to private companies, allowing firms to operate trains on certain routes -- in a bid to boost its virus-hit economy. In an announcement on Wednesday, the railway ministry said it would now permit businesses to run trains along 109 routes, inviting bids from firms. This has come in the aftermath of New Delhi opened up coal mining to the private sector. "This is the first initiative of private investment for running passenger trains over Indian Railways network," the ministry said in a statement. "The objective of this initiative is to introduce modern technology rolling stock with reduced maintenance, reduced transit time, boost job creation, provide enhanced safety, provide world class travel experience to passengers," it added. The project will require an investment of $39.8 million and private players will have to pay the government fixed haul charges and a percentage of profits determined during the bidding process. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought to privatise a range of industries that have been under state control for decades, sparking criticism from the opposition Congress party. Asia's third-largest economy has been clobbered by the pandemic and a months-long lockdown, growing at its slowest pace in at least two decades last quarter. The shutdown, which put millions out of work overnight, is widely expected to plunge the country into recession. Fears for the economy prompted the government to allow many businesses to resume operations starting last month despite an ongoing increase in infections, which have now crossed 6,00,000.

India opens railway network to private players

India has crossed the 600,000 mark of the COVID-19 infections. This comes when India has already entered into the second phase of unlocking. Watch report.

Over 19,148 COVID-19 cases in last 24-hours: Total number of infections reach 604,641

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna,&nbsp;Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport.

Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.&nbsp;

The fraud has apparently incurred the government of India a loss of more than&nbsp;$92 million.

CBI filed a criminal case against GVK Chairman Reddy, his son, AAI and few other individuals in late hours of Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-airport-gears-up-to-restart-operations-with-safety-measures-in-place-294771">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place</a>

GVK Group, which has multiple investments and projects formed a joint venture with AAI in 2006 to modernise, repair, and take care of the day-tot-day activities of Mumbai International Airport.

According to the charges alleged by the&nbsp;CBI, the accused generated fake work contracts during the financial year 2017-18. The CBI has also accused the organisations of issuing funds to several companies which were, in the end, not executed.

Misusing airport's reserves and resources has also been mentioned in the chargesheet, along with inflating its expenditure and underreporting revenue.

GVK and AAI have not yet commented on the charges.&nbsp;

GVK&nbsp;is also developing another airport near Mumbai.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna, Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport. Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna, Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport. Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The fraud has apparently incurred the government of India a loss of more than $92 million. CBI filed a criminal case against GVK Chairman Reddy, his son, AAI and few other individuals in late hours of Wednesday. Also read: Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place GVK Group, which has multiple investments and projects formed a joint venture with AAI in 2006 to modernise, repair, and take care of the day-tot-day activities of Mumbai International Airport. According to the charges alleged by the CBI, the accused generated fake work contracts during the financial year 2017-18. The CBI has also accused the organisations of issuing funds to several companies which were, in the end, not executed. Misusing airport's reserves and resources has also been mentioned in the chargesheet, along with inflating its expenditure and underreporting revenue. GVK and AAI have not yet commented on the charges. GVK is also developing another airport near Mumbai.

CBI books GVK Chairman for a Mumbai airport scam of $92 million

Blueprint to  peace: 47 years of India-Pakistan Simla Agreement

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal.

Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver."

Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps.

"We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said.

Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected.

He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation.

"I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply. Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side. "Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side. "You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal. Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver." Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps. "We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said. Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected. He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation. "I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Strange trend in Bengal: Ravi Shankar Prasad questions TMC over app ban

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus.

In a series of tweets, Kumaraswamy hit out at chief minister B S Yediyurappa and ministers for wasting their time in issuing contradictory statements instead of taking lessons from the Kerala government.

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It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens. 
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"It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens," Kumaraswamy tweeted.

He also said for the past three months Yediyurappa and his cabinet colleagues have been talking even as the escalated COVID-19 numbers stare them in the face.

Stating that Karnataka suffers due to lack of coordination in the cabinet, Kumaraswamy cautioned, "If the government doesn't get its act together, the day is not far when COVID-19 patients would be condemned to die on the streets. We are already seeing heart-wrenching stories of patients denied treatment."

He appealed to the government to consider the suggestions he had made earlier and asked it to rise above party politics amid rising coronavirus cases in Bengaluru. 
&nbsp;

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday slammed the BJP government in the state for its failure to protect the citizens from coronavirus. In a series of tweets, Kumaraswamy hit out at chief minister B S Yediyurappa and ministers for wasting their time in issuing contradictory statements instead of taking lessons from the Kerala government. It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens. 1/5 — H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) July 2, 2020 × "It is shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by the hospitals due to lack of beds. The government has failed in its duty to protect the citizens," Kumaraswamy tweeted. He also said for the past three months Yediyurappa and his cabinet colleagues have been talking even as the escalated COVID-19 numbers stare them in the face. Stating that Karnataka suffers due to lack of coordination in the cabinet, Kumaraswamy cautioned, "If the government doesn't get its act together, the day is not far when COVID-19 patients would be condemned to die on the streets. We are already seeing heart-wrenching stories of patients denied treatment." He appealed to the government to consider the suggestions he had made earlier and asked it to rise above party politics amid rising coronavirus cases in Bengaluru.

Shocking to see COVID-19 patients being turned down by hospitals: Kumaraswamy

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari.

Emphasising that at this juncture Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is the need of the hour, the senior minister said such funds would benefit the country as there is a need for pumping in liquidity into the market.

Economic activities have been significantly disrupted in the wake of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that were in place to curb spreading of infections.

"Country at this juncture needs liquidity. Without liquidity our economy's wheel will not accelerate... Rs 50-60 lakh crore foreign investment is needed in the country under present circumstances to boost the economy," the Road Transport, Highways and MSME Minister said.

Infrastructure sector including highways, airports, inland waterways, railways, logistic parks, broad gauge and metro, apart from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can attract large scale foreign investment, he noted.

"FDI in MSME, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and banks are needed... In the highways sector, we are trying to bring foreign investment," he said.

Gadkari further said that talks are on with investors from Dubai and the US for various sectors, including MSMEs.

"Some MSMEs are already listed on the BSE. I have talked to investors in Dubai and the US to come and invest in such MSMEs based on their three-year turnover, GST track record, IT record and good rating. Investing in these can result in rich dividends as these do exports also," he said.

"We need to boost our technology for increasing growth and need to focus on enhancing exports. The Prime Minister's thrust is also on reducing dependence on imports and boosting exports. In this infrastructure can play a crucial role," he said.

While noting that the present situation is very serious as the entire world is facing problems, Gadkari stressed on the need to work on a war-footing basis on infrastructure front.

Further, the minister noted that public private partnerships can help harness huge funds and would have a cascading impact by generating more employment and boosting the economy.

Besides, the minister said that 22 green highways were being build, including the Rs 1 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway on a new alignment.

Citing the example of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, he said talks were on with the Maharashtra government to shift about 1.5 lakh leather workers to Thane in a proposed leather cluster along the highway which will have the most modern facilities including schools and hospitals besides affordable housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

"The development of backward area will alleviate poverty and accelerate development. Socio-economic thought is behind this," he said.

The Centre has announced Rs 20 lakh crore economic stimulus package, including Rs 8.01 lakh crore of liquidity measures announced by the Reserve Bank since March.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), a free ration scheme, would be extended for 80 crore people till the November end.

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari.

India needs foreign direct investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore and the money can be tapped mainly through infrastructure projects as well as MSME sector to accelerate the wheels of coronavirus-hit economy, according to Union minister Nitin Gadkari. Emphasising that at this juncture Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is the need of the hour, the senior minister said such funds would benefit the country as there is a need for pumping in liquidity into the market. Economic activities have been significantly disrupted in the wake of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that were in place to curb spreading of infections. "Country at this juncture needs liquidity. Without liquidity our economy's wheel will not accelerate... Rs 50-60 lakh crore foreign investment is needed in the country under present circumstances to boost the economy," the Road Transport, Highways and MSME Minister said. Infrastructure sector including highways, airports, inland waterways, railways, logistic parks, broad gauge and metro, apart from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can attract large scale foreign investment, he noted. "FDI in MSME, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and banks are needed... In the highways sector, we are trying to bring foreign investment," he said. Gadkari further said that talks are on with investors from Dubai and the US for various sectors, including MSMEs. "Some MSMEs are already listed on the BSE. I have talked to investors in Dubai and the US to come and invest in such MSMEs based on their three-year turnover, GST track record, IT record and good rating. Investing in these can result in rich dividends as these do exports also," he said. "We need to boost our technology for increasing growth and need to focus on enhancing exports. The Prime Minister's thrust is also on reducing dependence on imports and boosting exports. In this infrastructure can play a crucial role," he said. While noting that the present situation is very serious as the entire world is facing problems, Gadkari stressed on the need to work on a war-footing basis on infrastructure front. Further, the minister noted that public private partnerships can help harness huge funds and would have a cascading impact by generating more employment and boosting the economy. Besides, the minister said that 22 green highways were being build, including the Rs 1 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway on a new alignment. Citing the example of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, he said talks were on with the Maharashtra government to shift about 1.5 lakh leather workers to Thane in a proposed leather cluster along the highway which will have the most modern facilities including schools and hospitals besides affordable housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. "The development of backward area will alleviate poverty and accelerate development. Socio-economic thought is behind this," he said. The Centre has announced Rs 20 lakh crore economic stimulus package, including Rs 8.01 lakh crore of liquidity measures announced by the Reserve Bank since March. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), a free ration scheme, would be extended for 80 crore people till the November end.

India needs FDI investments worth Rs 50 to 60 lakh crore: Gadkari

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix.&nbsp;

The High Court which has taken suo-motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case.&nbsp;

The Court had asked the CB-CID to probe the case till such time the CBI takes it over, to ensure that the crucial evidence is not destroyed. It was Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who had made a public announcement about the case being handed over two the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI).

So far, Sub Inspectors Raguganesh, Balakrishnan, Constables Murugan, Muthuraj and inspector&nbsp;Sridhar of the Sathankulam Police station have been arrested. There were photos and videos doing the rounds, of people from Sathankulam bursting crackers and celebrating the arrest of the cops.

During a hearing on Thursday, the court ordered that the witness in the case, policewoman Revathy&nbsp;be provided adequate protection and also paid leave.

A Division Bench of Justice PN Prakash and B Pugalendhi called up Revathy and spoke to her&nbsp;over the phone&nbsp;for a few minutes.

The Bench had sought details on the number of persons arrested, numbers of persons charged and the details of those who have been charged under these cases. Questions were also raised pertaining to which court these arrested persons would be produced before.&nbsp;

In its response, the government stated that the investigation has been conducted at Sathankulam Police station, government hospital and also the sub-jail. Based on the questioning of Head Constable, Revathy, a case has been registered against 5 cops from the Sathankulam station for IPC Section 302(murder). 3 woos would be appearing before the Kovilpatti magistrate and continuous investigation is underway, it was added.&nbsp;

The Bench also added that&nbsp;considering the challenges involved in taking the accused to the Kovilpatti Magistrate, over 100kms away, powers would be granted for Tuticorin Chief Judicial Magistrate to handle the case.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix. The High Court which has taken suo-motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case. The Court had asked the CB-CID to probe the case till such time the CBI takes it over, to ensure that the crucial evidence is not destroyed. It was Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who had made a public announcement about the case being handed over two the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI). So far, Sub Inspectors Raguganesh, Balakrishnan, Constables Murugan, Muthuraj and inspector Sridhar of the Sathankulam Police station have been arrested. There were photos and videos doing the rounds, of people from Sathankulam bursting crackers and celebrating the arrest of the cops. During a hearing on Thursday, the court ordered that the witness in the case, policewoman Revathy be provided adequate protection and also paid leave. A Division Bench of Justice PN Prakash and B Pugalendhi called up Revathy and spoke to her over the phone for a few minutes. The Bench had sought details on the number of persons arrested, numbers of persons charged and the details of those who have been charged under these cases. Questions were also raised pertaining to which court these arrested persons would be produced before. In its response, the government stated that the investigation has been conducted at Sathankulam Police station, government hospital and also the sub-jail. Based on the questioning of Head Constable, Revathy, a case has been registered against 5 cops from the Sathankulam station for IPC Section 302(murder). 3 woos would be appearing before the Kovilpatti magistrate and continuous investigation is underway, it was added. The Bench also added that considering the challenges involved in taking the accused to the Kovilpatti Magistrate, over 100kms away, powers would be granted for Tuticorin Chief Judicial Magistrate to handle the case.

Madras High Court lauds CB-CID probe; orders protection and paid-leave for lady cop witness

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery.

Addressing an online media briefing, the chief minister issued numbers - 1031 and 8800007722 where people can contact for the donation of plasma to save the lives of COVID-19 patients.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-delhi-is-now-discharging-more-patients-than-it-is-admitting-309952">Coronavirus: Delhi is now discharging more patients than it is admitting</a>

The government has set up the plasma bank at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences.

Kejriwal hoped that COVID-19 deaths will decrease due to plasma therapy.

Those aged between 18 and 60 and weighing not less than 50 kg can donate their plasma for COVID-19 patients, he added.

Plasma therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection.&nbsp;

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery.

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery. Addressing an online media briefing, the chief minister issued numbers - 1031 and 8800007722 where people can contact for the donation of plasma to save the lives of COVID-19 patients. Also read | Coronavirus: Delhi is now discharging more patients than it is admitting The government has set up the plasma bank at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences. Kejriwal hoped that COVID-19 deaths will decrease due to plasma therapy. Those aged between 18 and 60 and weighing not less than 50 kg can donate their plasma for COVID-19 patients, he added. Plasma therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection.

Arvind Kejriwal inaugurates Delhi's first plasma bank

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