A batch of 250 Indian nationals stranded in Pakistan due to the lockdown returned to the country through the Wagah Border on Friday.

This is the second batch in as many days after 248 Indians returned home on Thursday. Now, around 250 Indians are stranded in Pakistan and will return to the country on Saturday.

The Wagah Border in Lahore has been opened for three days, June 25 to June 27, to facilitate repatriation of stranded Indians.

Most of the Indian nationals came to Pakistan to meet their relatives and perform religious rites when the lockdown was imposed. Majority of them were staying in Sindh and Punjab province.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nearly-250-indians-stranded-in-pakistan-due-to-coronavirus-lockdown-return-home-308589">Also read | Nearly 250 Indians stranded in Pakistan due to coronavirus lockdown return home</a>

Of the stranded Indian nationals, 300 were staying in Sindh, 80 in Lahore, 15 in Nankana Sahib, 12 in Islamabad and remaining in other parts of the country.

As many as 248 Indian nationals will cross into India on Saturday. These include 33 from Maharastra, 46 from Uttar Pradesh, 38 from Rajasthan, 36 from Punjab, 26 from Delhi, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 14 from Haryana, 11 from Telangana, six from Karnataka, six from Chandigarh, five from Chattisgarh, four from Tamil Nadu, three from West Bengal, two each from Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and one from Bihar.&nbsp;

Passengers from various states will be quarantined in their home states upon arrival.

(with inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

A batch of 250 Indian nationals stranded in Pakistan due to the lockdown returned to the country through the Wagah Border on Friday. This is the second batch in as many days after 248 Indians returned home on Thursday.

A batch of 250 Indian nationals stranded in Pakistan due to the lockdown returned to the country through the Wagah Border on Friday. This is the second batch in as many days after 248 Indians returned home on Thursday. Now, around 250 Indians are stranded in Pakistan and will return to the country on Saturday. The Wagah Border in Lahore has been opened for three days, June 25 to June 27, to facilitate repatriation of stranded Indians. Most of the Indian nationals came to Pakistan to meet their relatives and perform religious rites when the lockdown was imposed. Majority of them were staying in Sindh and Punjab province. Also read | Nearly 250 Indians stranded in Pakistan due to coronavirus lockdown return home Of the stranded Indian nationals, 300 were staying in Sindh, 80 in Lahore, 15 in Nankana Sahib, 12 in Islamabad and remaining in other parts of the country. As many as 248 Indian nationals will cross into India on Saturday. These include 33 from Maharastra, 46 from Uttar Pradesh, 38 from Rajasthan, 36 from Punjab, 26 from Delhi, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 14 from Haryana, 11 from Telangana, six from Karnataka, six from Chandigarh, five from Chattisgarh, four from Tamil Nadu, three from West Bengal, two each from Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and one from Bihar. Passengers from various states will be quarantined in their home states upon arrival. (with inputs from PTI)

Second batch of 250 Indians stranded in Pakistan due to lockdown returns home

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week.&nbsp;

Sources told WION, "The parties have resolved and will make all efforts to fast-track the launching of these projects".

Ka-226 T helicopter project announced in 2014 is expected to replace Indian army's light utility helicopters Cheetah and Chetek. The main aim of the project is on "Make in India" production of KA 22T helicopters with Indian companies expected to take large scale part in the project. Many of local Indian vendors are expected to become the suppliers as the Russian-Indian joint venture has signed MoUs with a number of companies.

Sources said, “India will be able to receive some crucial helicopter technologies" with "integration of various helicopter systems being possible"&nbsp;

While the intergovernmental agreements were signed are a long time ago, a formal contract is still not signed and the actual project's launch is still pending.

Ka 226t will be produced at a factory in Bengaluru. The maximum speed of Ka226t is 220km/h and can carry a weight of 3600kg with a payload of 785 kg.

AK203 is the variant of Kalashnikov family of rifles and will be produced at the Indo Russia Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) rifle manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi. Compared to earlier Kalashnikov rifles, AK203 is considered to have better accuracy.

The rifle has customizability due to use of the Picatinny rail, which enables instalment on the basic rifle of additional equipment and therefore can be quickly adapted for the various components of the Indian Forces. The gun has been already tested under the conditions of extreme heat and cold.

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week.

India and Russia have agreed to resolve issues around the production of Ka-226T and AK203 projects and fast track it. Fast-tracking for the production of Ka 226T and AK203 was discussed during Indian defence minister visit to Moscow earlier this week. Sources told WION, "The parties have resolved and will make all efforts to fast-track the launching of these projects". Ka-226 T helicopter project announced in 2014 is expected to replace Indian army's light utility helicopters Cheetah and Chetek. The main aim of the project is on "Make in India" production of KA 22T helicopters with Indian companies expected to take large scale part in the project. Many of local Indian vendors are expected to become the suppliers as the Russian-Indian joint venture has signed MoUs with a number of companies. Sources said, “India will be able to receive some crucial helicopter technologies" with "integration of various helicopter systems being possible" While the intergovernmental agreements were signed are a long time ago, a formal contract is still not signed and the actual project's launch is still pending. Ka 226t will be produced at a factory in Bengaluru. The maximum speed of Ka226t is 220km/h and can carry a weight of 3600kg with a payload of 785 kg. AK203 is the variant of Kalashnikov family of rifles and will be produced at the Indo Russia Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) rifle manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi. Compared to earlier Kalashnikov rifles, AK203 is considered to have better accuracy. The rifle has customizability due to use of the Picatinny rail, which enables instalment on the basic rifle of additional equipment and therefore can be quickly adapted for the various components of the Indian Forces. The gun has been already tested under the conditions of extreme heat and cold.

India, Russia to fast track Ka-226T chopper and AK203 rifle production; India to receive helicopter technology

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. The development comes at a time when the cumulative total of samples tested in India are about 2 lakh short of the 8 million mark.&nbsp;

For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 89 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 47 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 42 of them are private ones.&nbsp;

Dr Radhakrishnan, IAS, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary said that though the testing was slow at the start, the state eventually scaled up rapidly. “Initially it took a little time to get ICMR approvals for new labs, but we were keen on increasing both government and private labs. It was basically a focused strategy to have a testing centre every 30kms in bigger areas. Based on what our Chief Minister had discussed with the health experts, we have been strictly going with RT-PCR (most-reliable) tests only and ramping up the numbers, he told WION.

In terms of the Tests per million too, Tamil Nadu ranks far above the national average. As per state government figures that were released earlier this month, Tamil Nadu had tested 8666 samples per million, whereas the national average stood at 4657. Experts working in the field owe it to the dedication of the staff in testing labs. Microbiologists and lab technicians are said to be the unseen heroes of this battle, as their tedious work requires a lot of precision, involves high risk.&nbsp;

“All our testing labs are dependent on RT-PCR machines and most of these machines need to be imported, there are also delays in supply due to the logistical challenges. But in Tamil Nadu, we decided to set-up more labs using the RT-PCR machines that were already available in the educational, research institutions. Our government labs test about 80% of the total samples by working 24 hours a day, all through the week” Dr S.Raju, Deputy Director, State Public Health Laboratory, told WION.

In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing above 20,000 samples on a daily basis. On certain days there were over 33,000 samples tested. Officials say that nearly 80% of the 1 million tests were done in Government labs, with the remaining being done in Private facilities.&nbsp;

“Such scaling up is possible because we have been getting sufficient testing kits from the US, South Korea and some even from India. In parallel, we are also placing orders for more RT-PCR machines, but we are meeting urgent requirements by getting the machines with the support of various departments and their research institutions. Some of them are Higher education department, animal husbandry, fisheries etc.” Dr Raja added.&nbsp;

While the rapid ramp-up of test capability has been widely appreciated, experts also suggest few other additional measures that Tamil Nadu could follow in the coming times.&nbsp;

“It is commendable that we have surpassed one million tests in a state that has an 8 crore population, but in specific districts, testing needs to be increased. Chennai (within Civic body limits) has a population of around 1crore, but we have only around 10,000 tests per day. The testing in Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, which have a combined population of over 2 crores must be scaled up even more” Healthcare Consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION.&nbsp;

Besides the scaling up of testing numbers, experts also point out towards broader testing among different groups of people.&nbsp;

“States are testing people based on latest ICMR guidelines, but they could also go a step ahead and test the aged population, cancer patients, vulnerable groups, pregnant women etc. Such testing can be done across social strata and at random. For example, a pregnant lady or a cancer patient must not have much exposure to infection while at home. But if they test positive, it means that there are many cases in their locality. Random testing for such groups and it would reveal more cases. Covid-19 testing before admitting all senior citizens (for other ailments) and pregnant women in hospitals is also a good strategy” Dr K Kolandaiswamy, who retired recently as Tamil Nadu's Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine told WION.&nbsp;

“From a few hundred daily tests in March and April, it is a tremendous growth that Tamil Nadu has shown in testing capability. But henceforth, the public must pay sincere attention to hand-washing(using soap) and mask-wearing, as that’s what reduces the spread and controls this pandemic” he added.&nbsp;

On Friday, Tamil Nadu recorded its highest-ever day increase of 3645 cases, thus taking the total case count to 74622. There are currently 32305 active cases in the state and 957 people have so far succumbed to the deadly pandemic. Capital city Chennai has a bulk of the state’s cases and accounts for 49,690 cases, of which 20,136 are active.

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so.

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. The development comes at a time when the cumulative total of samples tested in India are about 2 lakh short of the 8 million mark. For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 89 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 47 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 42 of them are private ones. Dr Radhakrishnan, IAS, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary said that though the testing was slow at the start, the state eventually scaled up rapidly. “Initially it took a little time to get ICMR approvals for new labs, but we were keen on increasing both government and private labs. It was basically a focused strategy to have a testing centre every 30kms in bigger areas. Based on what our Chief Minister had discussed with the health experts, we have been strictly going with RT-PCR (most-reliable) tests only and ramping up the numbers, he told WION. In terms of the Tests per million too, Tamil Nadu ranks far above the national average. As per state government figures that were released earlier this month, Tamil Nadu had tested 8666 samples per million, whereas the national average stood at 4657. Experts working in the field owe it to the dedication of the staff in testing labs. Microbiologists and lab technicians are said to be the unseen heroes of this battle, as their tedious work requires a lot of precision, involves high risk. “All our testing labs are dependent on RT-PCR machines and most of these machines need to be imported, there are also delays in supply due to the logistical challenges. But in Tamil Nadu, we decided to set-up more labs using the RT-PCR machines that were already available in the educational, research institutions. Our government labs test about 80% of the total samples by working 24 hours a day, all through the week” Dr S.Raju, Deputy Director, State Public Health Laboratory, told WION. In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing above 20,000 samples on a daily basis. On certain days there were over 33,000 samples tested. Officials say that nearly 80% of the 1 million tests were done in Government labs, with the remaining being done in Private facilities. “Such scaling up is possible because we have been getting sufficient testing kits from the US, South Korea and some even from India. In parallel, we are also placing orders for more RT-PCR machines, but we are meeting urgent requirements by getting the machines with the support of various departments and their research institutions. Some of them are Higher education department, animal husbandry, fisheries etc.” Dr Raja added. While the rapid ramp-up of test capability has been widely appreciated, experts also suggest few other additional measures that Tamil Nadu could follow in the coming times. “It is commendable that we have surpassed one million tests in a state that has an 8 crore population, but in specific districts, testing needs to be increased. Chennai (within Civic body limits) has a population of around 1crore, but we have only around 10,000 tests per day. The testing in Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, which have a combined population of over 2 crores must be scaled up even more” Healthcare Consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION. Besides the scaling up of testing numbers, experts also point out towards broader testing among different groups of people. “States are testing people based on latest ICMR guidelines, but they could also go a step ahead and test the aged population, cancer patients, vulnerable groups, pregnant women etc. Such testing can be done across social strata and at random. For example, a pregnant lady or a cancer patient must not have much exposure to infection while at home. But if they test positive, it means that there are many cases in their locality. Random testing for such groups and it would reveal more cases. Covid-19 testing before admitting all senior citizens (for other ailments) and pregnant women in hospitals is also a good strategy” Dr K Kolandaiswamy, who retired recently as Tamil Nadu's Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine told WION. “From a few hundred daily tests in March and April, it is a tremendous growth that Tamil Nadu has shown in testing capability. But henceforth, the public must pay sincere attention to hand-washing(using soap) and mask-wearing, as that’s what reduces the spread and controls this pandemic” he added. On Friday, Tamil Nadu recorded its highest-ever day increase of 3645 cases, thus taking the total case count to 74622. There are currently 32305 active cases in the state and 957 people have so far succumbed to the deadly pandemic. Capital city Chennai has a bulk of the state’s cases and accounts for 49,690 cases, of which 20,136 are active.

How Tamil Nadu became the first state in India to test over 1 million Covid-19 samples

Indian stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty, after having slipped into the red for two consecutive trading sessions, ended with 1% gain each on Friday.

Indian stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty, after having slipped into the red for two consecutive trading sessions, ended with 1% gain each on Friday. S&P BSE Sensex gained 329 points to sit at 35,171 points, while the 50-stock NSE Nifty ended just a tad bit below the 10,400 mark at 10,383 points. The rupee opened with a positive note due to weakness in the dollar and coupled with lifetime increase in Indian FOREX reserves. However, cut in global growth forecast may curb the sharp appreciation in Indian rupee. For intraday trading, Rupee has strong support at 75.30 levels and resistance at 76.00 levels. Global markets Markets showed signs of optimism on Friday, with European shares opening higher and oil prices rising despite a record number of new COVID-19 infections in the United States. The MSCI world equity index, which tracks shares in 49 countries, was up 0.3%, extending gains from late on Thursday. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.5 per cent, for a weekly gain of around 0.7 per cent. Japan's Nikkei rose 1.3 per cent to sit 0.4 per cent higher for the week. (With inputs from agencies)

Sensex closes 329 points higher, Nifty at 10,383

The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Iris Bano Romero, a spokesperson for the refugee agency, said that six deaths, including that of a minor, occurred in Desaguadero town, news agency AFP reported. Romero added the seventh death occurred in the town of Juli.&nbsp;

Apart from these seven deaths, two other people were hospitalised with pneumonia since Thursday with one of them in critical condition, the UN official said. Romero further said that blockades erected due to the political crisis in Peru made life difficult for both locals and migrants, making it hard to obtain basics like food and fuel, or to pay for rent and other services.

Forty-eight people have been killed so far in the anti-government demonstrations in Peru. On Friday (February 3), the congressional committee blocked another bill to advance general elections to this year, which President Dina Boluarte hoped would quell the ongoing unrest.

Speaking to reporters, Alejandro Cavero, a right-wing member of Congress who sought to halt the bill, said that he raised parliamentary objections in a meeting of the Constitutional Committee before the bill could even be debated.

"The regulations of Congress clearly stipulate that a matter that has already been shelved cannot be discussed again in the committee until the next legislative session," Cavero, a member of the committee said.&nbsp;

A day later, a Roman Catholic Cardinal voiced dismay that Congress declined to advance elections to defuse the unrest. "It hurts our souls that they have (not acted on) a proposal to move up elections," Cardinal Pedro Barreto said on Saturday (February 4).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022.

The United Nations refugee agency said on Saturday (February 4) that seven Haitian migrants died in the Andean highlands of Peru as their efforts to cross into Bolivia were stymied by anti-government protests which have been going on since early December 2022. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Iris Bano Romero, a spokesperson for the refugee agency, said that six deaths, including that of a minor, occurred in Desaguadero town, news agency AFP reported. Romero added the seventh death occurred in the town of Juli. Apart from these seven deaths, two other people were hospitalised with pneumonia since Thursday with one of them in critical condition, the UN official said. Romero further said that blockades erected due to the political crisis in Peru made life difficult for both locals and migrants, making it hard to obtain basics like food and fuel, or to pay for rent and other services. Forty-eight people have been killed so far in the anti-government demonstrations in Peru. On Friday (February 3), the congressional committee blocked another bill to advance general elections to this year, which President Dina Boluarte hoped would quell the ongoing unrest. Speaking to reporters, Alejandro Cavero, a right-wing member of Congress who sought to halt the bill, said that he raised parliamentary objections in a meeting of the Constitutional Committee before the bill could even be debated. "The regulations of Congress clearly stipulate that a matter that has already been shelved cannot be discussed again in the committee until the next legislative session," Cavero, a member of the committee said. A day later, a Roman Catholic Cardinal voiced dismay that Congress declined to advance elections to defuse the unrest. "It hurts our souls that they have (not acted on) a proposal to move up elections," Cardinal Pedro Barreto said on Saturday (February 4). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Is New Delhi, with rising coronavirus cases, set to become the next New York?

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders.

Now it appears India's diplomacy is losing to China's influence on other countries. The relations between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories.

Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised.

Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has put in place a motion in the Lower House of the country's parliament over the issue of encroachment of their territory by China.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/edge-of-precipice-nepals-growing-aggression-towards-india-308074">Also Read:&nbsp;Edge of the precipice? Nepal's growing aggression towards India</a>

According to the motion, "64 hectares have been encroached upon in Dolakha, Humla, Sindhupalchowk, Sankhuwasabha, Gorkha and Rasuwa districts" of Nepal by China.

Following the development, the Nepalese foreign ministry issued a clarification on Thursday, saying "The news allegedly based on the report of the ministry of agriculture doesn't exist." "The ministry requests the media to verify the information from the relevant authorities before commenting on such sensitive matters which may adversely affect the relations between the two friendly neighbours.'

Nepal made no such statement when it came to India. Last week, Nepalese forces opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life. The Nepal parliament amended a law making it tougher for Indians married to Nepalese get citizenship. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-standoff-beijings-expansionism-a-matter-of-global-concern-308619">Also Read: Beijing's expansionism a matter of global concern</a>

Now India’s other neighbour Bhutan has stopped irrigation water for Indian farmers in the Baksa district of Assam. Reports say, over 6,000 farmers from more than 26 villages of this district are dependent on a man-made irrigation channel.&nbsp;

New Delhi's geopolitical challenges are growing - while India says 'neighbourhood first', the neighbours may be saying China first.

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders.

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders. Now it appears India's diplomacy is losing to China's influence on other countries. The relations between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories. Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised. Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has put in place a motion in the Lower House of the country's parliament over the issue of encroachment of their territory by China. × Also Read: Edge of the precipice? Nepal's growing aggression towards India According to the motion, "64 hectares have been encroached upon in Dolakha, Humla, Sindhupalchowk, Sankhuwasabha, Gorkha and Rasuwa districts" of Nepal by China. Following the development, the Nepalese foreign ministry issued a clarification on Thursday, saying "The news allegedly based on the report of the ministry of agriculture doesn't exist." "The ministry requests the media to verify the information from the relevant authorities before commenting on such sensitive matters which may adversely affect the relations between the two friendly neighbours.' Nepal made no such statement when it came to India. Last week, Nepalese forces opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life. The Nepal parliament amended a law making it tougher for Indians married to Nepalese get citizenship. Also Read: Beijing's expansionism a matter of global concern Now India’s other neighbour Bhutan has stopped irrigation water for Indian farmers in the Baksa district of Assam. Reports say, over 6,000 farmers from more than 26 villages of this district are dependent on a man-made irrigation channel. New Delhi's geopolitical challenges are growing - while India says 'neighbourhood first', the neighbours may be saying China first.

India's diplomacy losing to China's widening influence?

Yusuf Memon, one of the convicts of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, died of heart attack at the Nashik Central Jail on Friday.

The younger brother of absconding mastermind Tiger Memon, Yusuf was convicted for the terror attack and was serving a life sentence.

The body has been sent for postmortem to Dhule.

Among other things, Yusuf was found guilty of allowing the use of his premises in Mumbai for terror activities to Tiger Memon, who masterminded the attacks along with Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar and others.

Another of their brothers, Yakub Memon, who too was convicted and awarded a death penalty in the case, had been executed by hanging at the Nagpur Central Jail on July 30, 2015 following the rejection of his clemency plea.

Over 300 people were killed when 12 strategically bombs exploded in quick succession at various strategic locations like hotels, the BSE, the gold jewellery hub of Zaveri Bazar, Regional Passport Office, Shiv Sena Bhavan and other sites, on March 12, 1993.

(with inputs from agencies)

Yusuf Memon, one of the convicts of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, died of heart attack at the Nashik Central Jail on Friday. The younger brother of absconding mastermind Tiger Memon, Yusuf was convicted for the terror attack and was serving a life sentence.

Yusuf Memon, one of the convicts of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, died of heart attack at the Nashik Central Jail on Friday. The younger brother of absconding mastermind Tiger Memon, Yusuf was convicted for the terror attack and was serving a life sentence. The body has been sent for postmortem to Dhule. Among other things, Yusuf was found guilty of allowing the use of his premises in Mumbai for terror activities to Tiger Memon, who masterminded the attacks along with Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar and others. Another of their brothers, Yakub Memon, who too was convicted and awarded a death penalty in the case, had been executed by hanging at the Nagpur Central Jail on July 30, 2015 following the rejection of his clemency plea. Over 300 people were killed when 12 strategically bombs exploded in quick succession at various strategic locations like hotels, the BSE, the gold jewellery hub of Zaveri Bazar, Regional Passport Office, Shiv Sena Bhavan and other sites, on March 12, 1993. (with inputs from agencies)

Mumbai 1993 series blasts convict Yusuf Memon dies in jail

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017.

Modi, who launched the "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" seeking to promote local entrepreneurship with industrial associations to provide employment, said Adityanath managed to turn the epidemic into an opportunity which the governments prior to 2017 would have avoided.

The prime minister referred to the pre-2017 period when the state was mostly ruled by non-BJP governments, saying, "Whichever government or system was in place, the circumstances were such that they would have avoided the challenge but the Adityanath government took it seriously and worked on a war footing."

He referred to a stampede in Allahabad during the Kumbh Mela, when a former prime minister was in power who was also an MP from the city, saying the PM made all efforts to brush the "deaths of hundreds of thousands" pilgrims under the carpet.

Modi said UP's population of 24 crore is same as that of four European countries put together but, in UP the death toll is 600 due to coronavirus and lauded the efforts of Adityanath in tackling the pandemic.

"UP's achievement is massive. The population of 24 crore is bigger than that of many countries. The population of England, France, Italy and Spain put together comes to 24 crore but they saw 1.30 lakh deaths due to coronavirus," he said, adding that these four countries lost more lives than UP even though they are developed nations and have no dearth of facilities.

Referring to the scenario in United States, he said, "You must have seen reports of America. They have everything but even then 1.25 lakh lives have been lost till now."

"If Yogiji and his team had not made proper preparations, today 85,000 people would have lost their lives if we compare with other countries. We can say that the hard work done by the UP government saved so many lives," he said.

Modi, who interacted with villagers of six districts through common services centres and krishi vigyan kendras , said this achievement has been managed when 30 to 35 lakh labourers have returned to the state by hundreds of shramik trains.

Speaking about the works done by the Adityanath government, he said the chief minister's dedication was evident in the fact that he opted to miss his father's last rites.

Modi said that he always talked about the double engine for development which was working for Uttar Pradesh and hoped that other states would also bring in schemes like UP.

He stressed that he is concerned about the state as a citizen and also because he is an MP from here.

"Whoever shows courage in crisis gets success.

What you have done is an example for the world," he said, adding that Uttar Pradesh has a great role in making the country self-reliant.

He also hailed the work done by the UP government in the past three years and reminded that the fight against coronavirus was on and cited three steps of social distancing, covering face with a mask and sanitation.

The "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" scheme aims to generate 1.

25 crore jobs in 31 districts.

Exuding confidence of providing jobs to all migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said the state has enough potential to create employment opportunities for all of them.

"Uttar Pradesh has enough possibilities for creating employment for migrant workers who have returned to the state.

I can assure that we will succeed in employing all of them," said Adityanath while launching the scheme through video conference. 
&nbsp;

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017.

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017. Modi, who launched the "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" seeking to promote local entrepreneurship with industrial associations to provide employment, said Adityanath managed to turn the epidemic into an opportunity which the governments prior to 2017 would have avoided. The prime minister referred to the pre-2017 period when the state was mostly ruled by non-BJP governments, saying, "Whichever government or system was in place, the circumstances were such that they would have avoided the challenge but the Adityanath government took it seriously and worked on a war footing." He referred to a stampede in Allahabad during the Kumbh Mela, when a former prime minister was in power who was also an MP from the city, saying the PM made all efforts to brush the "deaths of hundreds of thousands" pilgrims under the carpet. Modi said UP's population of 24 crore is same as that of four European countries put together but, in UP the death toll is 600 due to coronavirus and lauded the efforts of Adityanath in tackling the pandemic. "UP's achievement is massive. The population of 24 crore is bigger than that of many countries. The population of England, France, Italy and Spain put together comes to 24 crore but they saw 1.30 lakh deaths due to coronavirus," he said, adding that these four countries lost more lives than UP even though they are developed nations and have no dearth of facilities. Referring to the scenario in United States, he said, "You must have seen reports of America. They have everything but even then 1.25 lakh lives have been lost till now." "If Yogiji and his team had not made proper preparations, today 85,000 people would have lost their lives if we compare with other countries. We can say that the hard work done by the UP government saved so many lives," he said. Modi, who interacted with villagers of six districts through common services centres and krishi vigyan kendras , said this achievement has been managed when 30 to 35 lakh labourers have returned to the state by hundreds of shramik trains. Speaking about the works done by the Adityanath government, he said the chief minister's dedication was evident in the fact that he opted to miss his father's last rites. Modi said that he always talked about the double engine for development which was working for Uttar Pradesh and hoped that other states would also bring in schemes like UP. He stressed that he is concerned about the state as a citizen and also because he is an MP from here. "Whoever shows courage in crisis gets success. What you have done is an example for the world," he said, adding that Uttar Pradesh has a great role in making the country self-reliant. He also hailed the work done by the UP government in the past three years and reminded that the fight against coronavirus was on and cited three steps of social distancing, covering face with a mask and sanitation. The "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" scheme aims to generate 1. 25 crore jobs in 31 districts. Exuding confidence of providing jobs to all migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said the state has enough potential to create employment opportunities for all of them. "Uttar Pradesh has enough possibilities for creating employment for migrant workers who have returned to the state. I can assure that we will succeed in employing all of them," said Adityanath while launching the scheme through video conference.

Yogi Adityanath government saved 85,000 lives, says PM Modi praising UP's handling of COVID-19

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-highest-daily-spike-of-17926-cases-death-toll-crosses-15000-308689">Also read: India records highest daily spike of 17,926 cases; death toll crosses 15,000</a> 
 
"In continuation of the circular dated 30.05.2020 on the subject cited above (Travel and Visa related to COVID-19), the competent authority has decided that Scheduled International commercial passenger services to/from India shall remain suspended till 2359 hours IST of 15th July 2020," DGCA said in the statement.

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But according to the statement, this restriction will not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights.

Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths.

Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: India records highest daily spike of 17,926 cases; death toll crosses 15,000 "In continuation of the circular dated 30.05.2020 on the subject cited above (Travel and Visa related to COVID-19), the competent authority has decided that Scheduled International commercial passenger services to/from India shall remain suspended till 2359 hours IST of 15th July 2020," DGCA said in the statement. pic.twitter.com/qDqtyit14Q — DGCA (@DGCAIndia) June 26, 2020 × But according to the statement, this restriction will not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights. Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. (With inputs from agencies)

India suspends all international commercial flight operations till July 15

After 200 youths from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa went missing with the authorities, it set off alarm bells as intelligence agencies claim that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Watch report.

Intel alert in J&K: 200 youths with Pak visas missing

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the national capital, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that it may be difficult to save very serious patients using plasma therapy, but it can help moderate patients by not letting their condition worsen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-highest-daily-spike-of-17926-cases-death-toll-crosses-15000-308689">Also Read:&nbsp;India records highest daily spike in COVID-19 cases; death toll crosses 15,000</a>

"We have permission to conduct plasma therapy at LNJP and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality hospitals," the Delhi chief minister said, adding, "since the start of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital, the number of deaths has reduced to less than half as compared to earlier."

"There are some patients whose oxygen level became very low but they showed no symptoms, it dropped suddenly and they died suddenly," The Delhi cheif minister said.

Kejriwal asserted that the state government has provided oxymeter to asymptomatic patients including to those who have displayed mild symptoms during home isolation.

"A major issue with coronavirus is that oxygen level of patient drops suddenly. Oxygen level should be 95, if it drops below 90 then it should be considered dangerous," Kejriwal informed.

Kejriwal said that if oxygen levels fall below 85 then "it very serious."

Meanwhile, amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in Assam, state minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that there will be a complete lockdown imposed in the entire Kamrup metropolitan district from June 28 midnight onwards for the next 14 days.

The minister added that weekend lockdowns will be enforced in urban areas in Assam.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the national capital, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that it may be difficult to save very serious patients using plasma therapy, but it can help moderate patients by not letting their condition worsen.

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise in the national capital, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that it may be difficult to save very serious patients using plasma therapy, but it can help moderate patients by not letting their condition worsen. Also Read: India records highest daily spike in COVID-19 cases; death toll crosses 15,000 "We have permission to conduct plasma therapy at LNJP and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality hospitals," the Delhi chief minister said, adding, "since the start of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital, the number of deaths has reduced to less than half as compared to earlier." "There are some patients whose oxygen level became very low but they showed no symptoms, it dropped suddenly and they died suddenly," The Delhi cheif minister said. Kejriwal asserted that the state government has provided oxymeter to asymptomatic patients including to those who have displayed mild symptoms during home isolation. "A major issue with coronavirus is that oxygen level of patient drops suddenly. Oxygen level should be 95, if it drops below 90 then it should be considered dangerous," Kejriwal informed. Kejriwal said that if oxygen levels fall below 85 then "it very serious." Meanwhile, amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in Assam, state minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that there will be a complete lockdown imposed in the entire Kamrup metropolitan district from June 28 midnight onwards for the next 14 days. The minister added that weekend lockdowns will be enforced in urban areas in Assam. (With ANI inputs)

We have permission to conduct plasma therapy, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4,90,401 including 1,89,463 active cases, 2,85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the&nbsp;Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The national capital&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. Total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths.

Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country,&nbsp;reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

Pune, another city in Maharashtra, recorded 725 positive cases and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours. Pune's toll now stands at 18,240 and the death toll is at 655, said Dr Bhagawan Pawar, District Health Officer.

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276 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases reported in Assam today, as of 11:40 pm. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6646, including 4033 discharged, 2601 active cases, &amp; 9 deaths: Himanta Biswa Sarma, State Health Minister <a href="https://t.co/RkP3W355q6">pic.twitter.com/RkP3W355q6</a>
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The number of cases reached 839 in Himachal Pradesh, which has&nbsp;345 active cases, and 7 deaths.

Telangana reported 920 cases, 327 discharged and 5 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the state is now at 11,364, including 6,446 active cases, 4,688 discharged and 230 deaths.

Rajasthan recorded&nbsp;287 fresh positive cases, taking the toll to&nbsp;16,296, including 12,840 recovered cases, 3,077 active cases and 379 deaths.

Uttarakhand's toll reached 2,691 as 49 new cases were&nbsp;reported. Number of deaths due to the disease stands at 36.

Total number of samples tested up to 25 June is 77,76,228; the number of samples tested on June 25 is 2,15,446, said&nbsp;Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4,90,401 including 1,89,463 active cases, 2,85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4,90,401 including 1,89,463 active cases, 2,85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. Total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. Pune, another city in Maharashtra, recorded 725 positive cases and 16 deaths in the last 24 hours. Pune's toll now stands at 18,240 and the death toll is at 655, said Dr Bhagawan Pawar, District Health Officer. 276 new #COVID19 cases reported in Assam today, as of 11:40 pm. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6646, including 4033 discharged, 2601 active cases, & 9 deaths: Himanta Biswa Sarma, State Health Minister pic.twitter.com/RkP3W355q6 — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2020 × 42 new #COVID19 cases recorded in Jharkhand today, taking total number of cases to 2,261 including 1,605 recoveries and 12 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/j5rPcpvXxz — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2020 × The number of cases reached 839 in Himachal Pradesh, which has 345 active cases, and 7 deaths. Telangana reported 920 cases, 327 discharged and 5 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the state is now at 11,364, including 6,446 active cases, 4,688 discharged and 230 deaths. Rajasthan recorded 287 fresh positive cases, taking the toll to 16,296, including 12,840 recovered cases, 3,077 active cases and 379 deaths. Uttarakhand's toll reached 2,691 as 49 new cases were reported. Number of deaths due to the disease stands at 36. Total number of samples tested up to 25 June is 77,76,228; the number of samples tested on June 25 is 2,15,446, said Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

COVID-19 : India records highest daily spike of 17,926 cases; death toll crosses 15,000

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband. Nidan Singh Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 17 from Chamkani, Paktia in eastern Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/sikh-abducted-in-afghanistan-afghan-american-sikhs-seek-indias-support-307775">Also Read:&nbsp;Sikh abducted in Afghanistan, Afghan American Sikhs seek India's support</a>

Mahrwanti wrote to India's prime minister on 25th June saying, "Government&nbsp;of India is requested to provide us appropriate assistance and take appropriate action as deemed fit".

"I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest," she added.&nbsp;

Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. &nbsp;He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara.&nbsp;

Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two&nbsp;sons and three&nbsp;daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees. While the identity of abductors is not known, Paktia is the epicentre of the Taliban and has been a safe haven for terror groups like the Haqqani network.&nbsp;

He was a cook by profession in Delhi and used to earn a livelihood by undertaking meal orders for langar community kitchens.&nbsp;

India had "strongly condemn" the abduction of Nidan Singh with the ministry of external affairs in a release saying, "The targeting and persecution of the minority community members by terrorists at the behest of their external supporters is a matter of grave concern."

The Indian government is in touch with the Afghan government on the issue and is hoping the "government of Afghanistan would be able to secure safe and early release of Nidan Singh.”, MEA said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband.

The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting assistance from the Indian government for the release of her husband. Nidan Singh Sachdeva was kidnapped on June 17 from Chamkani, Paktia in eastern Afghanistan. Also Read: Sikh abducted in Afghanistan, Afghan American Sikhs seek India's support Mahrwanti wrote to India's prime minister on 25th June saying, "Government of India is requested to provide us appropriate assistance and take appropriate action as deemed fit". "I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest," she added. Nidan Singh was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan. He was there to maintain the Gurdwara where according to history Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism had visited. He was the lone person managing and performing community service in the Gurudwara. Singh and his family of 6 - wife, two sons and three daughters had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees. While the identity of abductors is not known, Paktia is the epicentre of the Taliban and has been a safe haven for terror groups like the Haqqani network. He was a cook by profession in Delhi and used to earn a livelihood by undertaking meal orders for langar community kitchens. India had "strongly condemn" the abduction of Nidan Singh with the ministry of external affairs in a release saying, "The targeting and persecution of the minority community members by terrorists at the behest of their external supporters is a matter of grave concern." The Indian government is in touch with the Afghan government on the issue and is hoping the "government of Afghanistan would be able to secure safe and early release of Nidan Singh.”, MEA said.

Wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh writes to PM Modi; calls for granting Indian citizenship

Story of a 7-year old Kashmiri Girl Jannat, Who is Cleaning Dal Lake Since 2 Years

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Friday notified its assessment scheme for the pending class 10 and 12 examinations, which have been cancelled in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As per the scheme, results of class 10 and 12 students, who have completed all their exams, will be declared based on their performances in the exams.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/education-news-covid-19-cbse-cancels-class-x-board-exams-class-xii-exams-for-students-who-opt-for-it-308493">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: CBSE cancels class X board exams; class XII exams 'for students who opt for it'</a>

"For students who have appeared in the examinations in more than three subjects, the average of the marks obtained in the best three performing subjects will be awarded in the subjects whose examinations have not been conducted," CBSE Exam Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj explained.

"For students who have appeared in the examinations in only three subjects, the average of the marks obtained in the best two performing subjects will be awarded in the subjects whose examinations have not been conducted," he added.

Taking note of cancellation of a few exams in northeast Delhi in view of the communal violence in the area during the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act protests in February, the board has decided to take into account internal exams to assess performances.

"There are very few students of class 12, mainly from Delhi, who have appeared in the examinations in only one or two subjects. Their results will be declared based on performances in the appeared subjects and performance in internal, practical or project assessment," Bhardwaj said.

The board will conduct exams for class 12 at a later stage when the situation is conducive and students who are unhappy with their score will have an option to appear for them.

However, the students who opt to sit for those exams, their performances in the exams will be treated as the final score.

Class 10 students will not get a chance to appear for improvement exams and their score as declared by the board will be treated final.

The four-point assessment scheme has been devised following cancellation of the pending exams, which were scheduled from July 1 to 15.

"Results based upon the assessment scheme will be declared by July 15 so candidates can apply and seek admissions in higher educational institutions in India or abroad," Bhardwaj said.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Friday notified its assessment scheme for the pending class 10 and 12 examinations, which have been cancelled in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Friday notified its assessment scheme for the pending class 10 and 12 examinations, which have been cancelled in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per the scheme, results of class 10 and 12 students, who have completed all their exams, will be declared based on their performances in the exams. Also read| COVID-19: CBSE cancels class X board exams; class XII exams 'for students who opt for it' "For students who have appeared in the examinations in more than three subjects, the average of the marks obtained in the best three performing subjects will be awarded in the subjects whose examinations have not been conducted," CBSE Exam Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj explained. "For students who have appeared in the examinations in only three subjects, the average of the marks obtained in the best two performing subjects will be awarded in the subjects whose examinations have not been conducted," he added. Taking note of cancellation of a few exams in northeast Delhi in view of the communal violence in the area during the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act protests in February, the board has decided to take into account internal exams to assess performances. "There are very few students of class 12, mainly from Delhi, who have appeared in the examinations in only one or two subjects. Their results will be declared based on performances in the appeared subjects and performance in internal, practical or project assessment," Bhardwaj said. The board will conduct exams for class 12 at a later stage when the situation is conducive and students who are unhappy with their score will have an option to appear for them. However, the students who opt to sit for those exams, their performances in the exams will be treated as the final score. Class 10 students will not get a chance to appear for improvement exams and their score as declared by the board will be treated final. The four-point assessment scheme has been devised following cancellation of the pending exams, which were scheduled from July 1 to 15. "Results based upon the assessment scheme will be declared by July 15 so candidates can apply and seek admissions in higher educational institutions in India or abroad," Bhardwaj said.

CBSE notifies its assessment scheme for pending class 10, 12 exams

The coronavirus pandemic is an unique learning experience for newsroom leaders, they are covering the story while living it. The head of France 24 English Gallagher Fenwick shares his biggest takeaway from the pandemic.

WION Global Editors Summit: Gallagher Fenwick shares his biggest takeaway from pandemic

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter at Chewa Ular in Tral area of Awantipora in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday.

"Security forces eliminated one more terrorist in Chewa operation," an Army spokesperson said.

Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the terrorists while the operation is still underway.

The security forces had launched a search operation in Chewa Ular area of Tral in south Kashmir district after a tipoff about the presence of terrorists in the area.

The terrorists later opened fire as security forces engaged with them.

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter at Chewa Ular in Tral area of Awantipora in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. "Security forces eliminated one more terrorist in Chewa operation," an Army spokesperson said.

Three terrorists have been killed in an encounter at Chewa Ular in Tral area of Awantipora in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. "Security forces eliminated one more terrorist in Chewa operation," an Army spokesperson said. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the terrorists while the operation is still underway. The security forces had launched a search operation in Chewa Ular area of Tral in south Kashmir district after a tipoff about the presence of terrorists in the area. The terrorists later opened fire as security forces engaged with them.

Three terrorists killed in J&K's Pulwama district, operation underway

At WION Global Editors Summit, European Alliance of News Agencies' Alexandru Giboi says it is all about being optimistic during the pandemic.

WION Global Editors Summit: 'It is all about being optimistic during pandemic'| Alexandru Giboi

WION Global Editors Summit: Is it too early to gaze at the post-pandemic world? Aluf Benn Is it too early to gaze at the Post-Pandemic world? Watch this exclusive conversation between the Editor In Chief of Haaretz Aluf Benn and WION's palki

WION Global Editors Summit: Is it too early to gaze at the post-pandemic world? Aluf Benn

WION Global Editors Summit: 'Organisation closes office gym to cope with the tough time', Aluf Benn Newspapers are battling an unprecedented drop in ad revenues. The Editor In Chief of Haaretz Aluf Benn tells WION's Palki that his organisation has had to cut down on parking space and close the office gym to cope with the tough time.

WION Global Editors Summit: 'Organisation closes office gym to cope with the tough time', Aluf Benn

At WION Global Editors Summit, the head of France 24 english Gallagher Fenwick shares his experience of working through the lockdown.

WION Global Editors Summit: Gallagher Fenwick shares his experience of working through lockdown

Repatriation of 748 Indian Nationals will begin from Thursday in three phases and will continue till Saturday.&nbsp;

A press release from the Indian mission in Pakistan said, "Please make necessary arrangements to reach at the Wagah-Attari border in time for your repatriation."&nbsp;

On Thursday, 250 Indians from Jammu and Kashmir will enter into India via Attari Wagah border; Friday will see another 250 nationals entering the country -- out of which 152 are from Jammu and Kashmir, 70 from Gujarat and 28 from Maharashtra.&nbsp;

As many as 248 Indian nationals will cross into India on Saturday. These include 33 from Maharastra, 46 from Uttar Pradesh, 38 from Rajasthan, 36 from Punjab, 26 from Delhi, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 14 from Haryana, 11 from Telangana, six from Karnataka, six from Chandigarh, five from Chattisgarh, four from Tamil Nadu, three from West Bengal, two each from Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and one from Bihar.&nbsp;

Passengers from various states will be quarantined in their home states upon arrival.

Repatriation of 748 Indian Nationals will begin from Thursday in three phases and will continue till Saturday. A press release from the Indian mission in Pakistan said, "Please make necessary arrangements to reach at the Wagah-Attari border in time for your repatriation.

Repatriation of 748 Indian Nationals will begin from Thursday in three phases and will continue till Saturday. A press release from the Indian mission in Pakistan said, "Please make necessary arrangements to reach at the Wagah-Attari border in time for your repatriation." On Thursday, 250 Indians from Jammu and Kashmir will enter into India via Attari Wagah border; Friday will see another 250 nationals entering the country -- out of which 152 are from Jammu and Kashmir, 70 from Gujarat and 28 from Maharashtra. As many as 248 Indian nationals will cross into India on Saturday. These include 33 from Maharastra, 46 from Uttar Pradesh, 38 from Rajasthan, 36 from Punjab, 26 from Delhi, 15 from Madhya Pradesh, 14 from Haryana, 11 from Telangana, six from Karnataka, six from Chandigarh, five from Chattisgarh, four from Tamil Nadu, three from West Bengal, two each from Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and one from Bihar. Passengers from various states will be quarantined in their home states upon arrival.

Repatriation of Indian nationals from Pakistan to begin from Thursday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed condolences to families of those who lost their lives due to heavy rain and lightning in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

"I`ve received tragic news about death of many people due to heavy rain and lightning in some districts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The state governments are engaged in relief work with promptness. I express my condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this disaster," the Prime Minister tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-casualties-due-to-thunderstorms-in-bihar-in-24-hours-308548" hreflang="en">22 casualties due to thunderstorms in Bihar in 24 hours</a>

At least 83 people died due to thunderstorms in Bihar in the last 24 hours, according to the Chief Minister`s Office. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar announced Rs 4 lakhs each for the families of the deceased.

Meanwhile, it killed&nbsp;24 people while&nbsp;12 were injured in the different parts of Uttar Pradesh.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his condolences and announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of deceased.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed condolences to families of those who lost their lives due to heavy rain and lightning in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed condolences to families of those who lost their lives due to heavy rain and lightning in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. "I`ve received tragic news about death of many people due to heavy rain and lightning in some districts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The state governments are engaged in relief work with promptness. I express my condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this disaster," the Prime Minister tweeted. Also read: 22 casualties due to thunderstorms in Bihar in 24 hours At least 83 people died due to thunderstorms in Bihar in the last 24 hours, according to the Chief Minister`s Office. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar announced Rs 4 lakhs each for the families of the deceased. Meanwhile, it killed 24 people while 12 were injured in the different parts of Uttar Pradesh. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his condolences and announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of deceased.

PM expresses condolences over death of people in UP, Bihar due to lightning

Watch the world's top Editors talk about covering and coping with the Coronavirus pandemic. Palki Sharma Upadhyay in conversation with Gallagher Fenwick, Aluf Benn, Alexandru Giboi.

Global Editors Summit: When the Frontline comes to the Newsroom

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus.

Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state. Currently, there are 63,342 active cases in Maharashtra. On June 25, 3,661 patients recovered from the disease, taking the number of cured patients to 77453.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the Indian economy faces an even deeper downturn than projected in April as the country grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic. It has projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent in FY21, a steep drop from its April forecast of a 1.9 per cent expansion. The international body has called this a "historic low" for India.

The deadly coronavirus has now infected more than 9,551,987 people worldwide and killed more than 485,433. IMF said it expected the global economy to take a $12-trillion hit from the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus. Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state.

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus. Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state. Currently, there are 63,342 active cases in Maharashtra. On June 25, 3,661 patients recovered from the disease, taking the number of cured patients to 77453. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the Indian economy faces an even deeper downturn than projected in April as the country grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic. It has projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent in FY21, a steep drop from its April forecast of a 1.9 per cent expansion. The international body has called this a "historic low" for India. The deadly coronavirus has now infected more than 9,551,987 people worldwide and killed more than 485,433. IMF said it expected the global economy to take a $12-trillion hit from the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra sees nearly 5,000 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours, biggest spike so far

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 closed slightly lower today in a volatile session as downbeat growth outlook from the IMF and a surge in COVID-19 cases weighed on the sentiment.

Sensex ended the day at 34,799 or 277 points down from the day’s high and 309 points up from the day’s low. The 50-stock NSE Nifty settled at 10,277 points.

ITC, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, Kotak Bank and GAIL were the Nifty50 top gainers while Asian Paints, Hindalco, Indian Oil Corporation, Eicher Motors and HCL Technologies were the index top losers.

The IMF on Wednesday projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent for the Indian economy in 2020, a “historic low,” citing the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic that has nearly stalled all economic activities, but said the country is expected to bounce back in 2021 with a robust six per cent growth rate.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 closed slightly lower today in a volatile session as downbeat growth outlook from the IMF and a surge in COVID-19 cases weighed on the sentiment.

Indian stock market benchmarks BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 closed slightly lower today in a volatile session as downbeat growth outlook from the IMF and a surge in COVID-19 cases weighed on the sentiment. Sensex ended the day at 34,799 or 277 points down from the day’s high and 309 points up from the day’s low. The 50-stock NSE Nifty settled at 10,277 points. ITC, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, Kotak Bank and GAIL were the Nifty50 top gainers while Asian Paints, Hindalco, Indian Oil Corporation, Eicher Motors and HCL Technologies were the index top losers. The IMF on Wednesday projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent for the Indian economy in 2020, a “historic low,” citing the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic that has nearly stalled all economic activities, but said the country is expected to bounce back in 2021 with a robust six per cent growth rate. (With inputs from agencies)

Sensex, Nifty end the day in red after a volatile session

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