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At least 8 terrorists have been killed in two encounters in Shopian and Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir since Thursday.

"I must specifically mention the one in which we neutralised three terrorists (in Pampore's Meej) which was next to the mosque," GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen Baggavalli Somashekar Raju, said.

"Extreme restraint was exercised by the security forces to ensure that no damage was caused to the structure," the official added.

Five terrorists were killed in Shopian and three in Pampore. Kashmir Police said during the Pampore encounter, there was no firing, and IED was not used with only tear smoke shells used in order to maintain the sanctity of the mosque as two terrorists hiding in the mosque were neutralized.

According to reports, over two dozen terrorists have been killed by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in the last two weeks by security forces.

"Out of the 49 new recruits who got enrolled into ranks of terrorist organizations, 27 have been neutralised," Lt Gen Baggavalli Somashekar Raju informed reporters. adding, "if anybody takes up arms and causes harm to others, we will do what we're doing."

At least 8 terrorists have been killed in two encounters in Shopian and Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir since Thursday. "I must specifically mention the one in which we neutralised three terrorists (in Pampore's Meej) which was next to the mosque," GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen Baggavalli Somashekar Raju, said.

At least 8 terrorists have been killed in two encounters in Shopian and Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir since Thursday. "I must specifically mention the one in which we neutralised three terrorists (in Pampore's Meej) which was next to the mosque," GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen Baggavalli Somashekar Raju, said. "Extreme restraint was exercised by the security forces to ensure that no damage was caused to the structure," the official added. Five terrorists were killed in Shopian and three in Pampore. Kashmir Police said during the Pampore encounter, there was no firing, and IED was not used with only tear smoke shells used in order to maintain the sanctity of the mosque as two terrorists hiding in the mosque were neutralized. According to reports, over two dozen terrorists have been killed by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in the last two weeks by security forces. "Out of the 49 new recruits who got enrolled into ranks of terrorist organizations, 27 have been neutralised," Lt Gen Baggavalli Somashekar Raju informed reporters. adding, "if anybody takes up arms and causes harm to others, we will do what we're doing."

8 terrorists killed in Shopian, Pampore in J&K

After widespread speculation that several Indian soldiers are in Chinese custody. The Indian Army has set the record straight confirming that all soldiers involved in the Galwan valley skirmish are accounted for.

India-China standoff | No Indian soldiers missing: All injured personnel stable

20 parties to attend the all-party meet called by Prime Minister Modi today. Home Minister, Defence Minister and BJP president JP Nadda to also be present in the virtual meet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh personally called & invited all leaders on behalf of PM yesterday.

India-China standoff: All-party meet to discuss border face off

A committee set up to fix rates to be charged by private hospitals in Delhi for isolation beds, ICUs with and without ventilator support for patients of the&nbsp;coronavirus disease has given its recommendation, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-covid-centre-image-spreads-amid-rising-coronavirus-cases-in-delhi-306907" hreflang="en">Fake COVID centre image spreads amid rising coronavirus cases in Delhi</a>

As per the committee, the cost of treatment at the coronavirus-designated private hospitals for isolation beds has been fixed at Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per day. For treatment in ICU, the hospitals have been directed to charge Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000. If a patient is put on a ventilator, the charges would be Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 for a single day.

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Committee has recommended Rs 8000-10000, 13000-15000 &amp; 15000-18000 including PPE costs for isolation bed, ICUs without &amp; with ventilator respectively to all hospitals as compared to the current charges of Rs 24000-25000, 34000-43000 &amp; 44000-54000 (excluding PPE cost)<a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273872168795779072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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To provide relief to the common man in Delhi, HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> constituted a committee under Member of <a href="https://twitter.com/NITIAayog?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NITIAayog</a> to fix rates charged by Pvt hospitals in Delhi for isolation beds, ICUs without ventilator support &amp; ICUs with ventilator support.
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273872167269068800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The ministry of home affairs confirmed that following the orders of Shah,&nbsp;testing via Rapid Antigen testing methodology which has been approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) was started in the city on Thursday. "7040 people have been tested in 193 testing Centres. Testing will continue with increased numbers in coming days," it tweeted.

"Sample testing has been doubled immediately in pursuance of decisions taken by HM&nbsp;@AmitShah&nbsp;in series of meetings. &nbsp;A total of testing samples of 27,263 have been collected in #Delhi from 15 to 17 June 2020 against the daily collection which varied between 4,000-4,500 earlier," the home ministry tweeted.

"As per the directions given by HM in a series of meetings chaired by him over last few days in regard to #COVID19 &nbsp;situation in Delhi, house to house health survey in 242 containment zones of Delhi completed yesterday. A total of 2.3 lakh people were surveyed," MHA further said.

Over the last few days, Shah has held a series of meetings with Delhi LG Anil Baijal, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and high-level officials to sort out a strategy to contain the coronavirus outbreak in Delhi.&nbsp;

Delhi’s infection tally stands at 49,979 and 1,969 people have died due to the coronavirus disease so far.

A committee set up to fix rates to be charged by private hospitals in Delhi for isolation beds, ICUs with and without ventilator support for patients of the coronavirus disease has given its recommendation, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Friday.

A committee set up to fix rates to be charged by private hospitals in Delhi for isolation beds, ICUs with and without ventilator support for patients of the coronavirus disease has given its recommendation, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Friday. Also read: Fake COVID centre image spreads amid rising coronavirus cases in Delhi As per the committee, the cost of treatment at the coronavirus-designated private hospitals for isolation beds has been fixed at Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per day. For treatment in ICU, the hospitals have been directed to charge Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000. If a patient is put on a ventilator, the charges would be Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000 for a single day. Committee has recommended Rs 8000-10000, 13000-15000 & 15000-18000 including PPE costs for isolation bed, ICUs without & with ventilator respectively to all hospitals as compared to the current charges of Rs 24000-25000, 34000-43000 & 44000-54000 (excluding PPE cost)@HMOIndia — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 19, 2020 × To provide relief to the common man in Delhi, HM @AmitShah constituted a committee under Member of @NITIAayog to fix rates charged by Pvt hospitals in Delhi for isolation beds, ICUs without ventilator support & ICUs with ventilator support. — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 19, 2020 × The ministry of home affairs confirmed that following the orders of Shah, testing via Rapid Antigen testing methodology which has been approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) was started in the city on Thursday. "7040 people have been tested in 193 testing Centres. Testing will continue with increased numbers in coming days," it tweeted. "Sample testing has been doubled immediately in pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah in series of meetings. A total of testing samples of 27,263 have been collected in #Delhi from 15 to 17 June 2020 against the daily collection which varied between 4,000-4,500 earlier," the home ministry tweeted. "As per the directions given by HM in a series of meetings chaired by him over last few days in regard to #COVID19 situation in Delhi, house to house health survey in 242 containment zones of Delhi completed yesterday. A total of 2.3 lakh people were surveyed," MHA further said. Over the last few days, Shah has held a series of meetings with Delhi LG Anil Baijal, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and high-level officials to sort out a strategy to contain the coronavirus outbreak in Delhi. Delhi’s infection tally stands at 49,979 and 1,969 people have died due to the coronavirus disease so far.

Home Ministry fixes rate for COVID-19 treatment at private hospitals in Delhi

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh&nbsp;and the Indian prime minister on&nbsp;why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllPartyMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllPartyMeet</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GalwanValley?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GalwanValley</a>. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party <a href="https://twitter.com/RJDforIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RJDforIndia</a> hasn't received any message so far.
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1273674561783910403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party&nbsp;hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet.

In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed.

Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today.

Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China.

The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the&nbsp;crisis.

Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC&nbsp;in April.

Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting. Dear @DefenceMinIndia @PMOIndia, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's #AllPartyMeet on #GalwanValley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party @RJDforIndia hasn't received any message so far. — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 18, 2020 × "Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet. In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed. Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today. Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China. The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the crisis. Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC in April. Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, AAP express displeasure over not being invited for PM Modi's all-party meet on China

Stressing that India is aiming to be the world's biggest coal exporter and make itself self-reliant in the energy sector, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the auction process for commercial mining of 41 coal blocks on Thursday.

The Indian prime minister said that to make India self-reliant in the energy sector, a major step is being taken today.&nbsp;

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Everyone participating in this event from home and abroad are most welcome. Having such an event in this challenging time &amp; all of you joining it, is a big message in itself: Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/vVEXrqL6WN">pic.twitter.com/vVEXrqL6WN</a>
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Addressing through video-conferencing, PM Modi also said that the coronavirus crisis has taught India to be self-reliant and the country would reduce its dependence on imports.

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The auction (of 41 coal mines for commercial mining) today is taking place at a time when business activity in India is normalizing rapidly. Consumption&amp;demand is rapidly approaching the pre-COVID level. In such a situation, there cannot be a better time for a new beginning: PM <a href="https://t.co/9kK9ZDg26f">pic.twitter.com/9kK9ZDg26f</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1273501195592597504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also said that investments worth Rs 20,000 crore will be made for the gasification of four coal projects to make it environment friendly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-to-think-about-unlock-20-pm-modi-to-chief-ministers-306630">Need to think about Unlock 2.0: PM Modi to chief ministers</a>

"We have set a target to gasify around 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

The prime minister also added that he is unlocking resources of the country for private players in the sector of commercial coal mining.&nbsp;

"India should be world's biggest coal exporter considering the size of its reserves," the Indian prime minister added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Stressing that India is aiming to be the world's biggest coal exporter and make itself self-reliant in the energy sector, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the auction process for commercial mining of 41 coal blocks on Thursday.

Stressing that India is aiming to be the world's biggest coal exporter and make itself self-reliant in the energy sector, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the auction process for commercial mining of 41 coal blocks on Thursday. The Indian prime minister said that to make India self-reliant in the energy sector, a major step is being taken today. Everyone participating in this event from home and abroad are most welcome. Having such an event in this challenging time & all of you joining it, is a big message in itself: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/vVEXrqL6WN — ANI (@ANI) June 18, 2020 × Addressing through video-conferencing, PM Modi also said that the coronavirus crisis has taught India to be self-reliant and the country would reduce its dependence on imports. The auction (of 41 coal mines for commercial mining) today is taking place at a time when business activity in India is normalizing rapidly. Consumption&demand is rapidly approaching the pre-COVID level. In such a situation, there cannot be a better time for a new beginning: PM pic.twitter.com/9kK9ZDg26f — ANI (@ANI) June 18, 2020 × He also said that investments worth Rs 20,000 crore will be made for the gasification of four coal projects to make it environment friendly. Also read | Need to think about Unlock 2.0: PM Modi to chief ministers "We have set a target to gasify around 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030," PM Modi said. The prime minister also added that he is unlocking resources of the country for private players in the sector of commercial coal mining. "India should be world's biggest coal exporter considering the size of its reserves," the Indian prime minister added.

Major step to make India self-reliant in energy sector: PM Narendra Modi on launching auction of 41 coal mines

The indicators of economic performance are showing signs of revival following the reduction in restrictions imposed during the coronavirus lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as he told chief ministers to think about 'Unlock 2.0' and also ways to minimise infection.

He noted that the spread of COVID-19 is more in a few big states and cities and urged the chief ministers to make full use of their state's existing testing capacity and also work to augment health infrastructure.

He said there was a need to "fight" rumours that the lockdown could be reimposed.

Speaking to chief ministers and representatives of 14 states and the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said big crowds, lack of physical-distancing, daily movement of large number of people and small houses in some cities have made the battle against coronavirus "more challenging".

This was the second day of Modi's sixth round of consultations with chief ministers on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saving lives should be the top priority, he said, and called for expanding health infrastructure, according to a statement.

He underlined the need to "fight rumours of lockdown", pointing out that the country is now in the "phase of unlocking".

"We need to now think about phase 2 of Unlock and how to minimise all possibilities of harm to our people," he said according to the statement.

He noted that with reduced restrictions, indicators of economic performance are showing signs of revival.

Inflation has also been kept under control and asked states to take steps to boost infrastructure and construction-related activities.

In a word of caution, Modi referred to the rise in the number of infections and underscored the need for testing, tracking, tracing and isolating COVID-19 patients to deal with the pandemic.

There has been criticism that some states and cities, including Delhi, are not doing enough testing.

The prime minister, however, stated that the number of recovered patients has also been rising, and added that it is a matter of relief that very few patients needed ICU and ventilator care.

People's discipline during the nationwide lockdown has stopped the virus' exponential growth, he said, adding that India is now better placed than earlier vis-à-vis treating patients, health infrastructure and trained manpower.

Citing the details of the boost in capacity to deal with the virus, he asked states to continue to put emphasis on "health Infrastructure, information systems, emotional support and public participation".

Praising efforts of states and local administration, he said the country now has more than 900 COVID-19 testing labs, lakhs of special beds, thousands of isolation and quarantine centres, adequate stocks of testing kits, with over one crore personal protective equipment (PPEs) and almost same numbers of N-95 masks supplied to states.

Despite a rise in coronavirus cases in a few places, people's patience, administration's work and dedication of corona warriors have ensured that things did not go out of control, he said.

Stressing on the importance of providing timely information, the prime minister said it should be ensured that helplines are not "helpless" but helpful for people.

He called for building teams of senior doctors and young volunteers to guide patients through telemedicine and run helplines, respectively.

Modi also called for fighting the stigma associated with the disease, saying people should be assured that there is no need to panic if somebody has been infected as the number of those cured is huge.

He highlighted the need to keep reminding people of the benefits of sanitisation, wearing masks and social distancing to fight the virus.

He asked states to share their best practices with each other.

An officer on special duty in the Union Health Ministry told the participants that there has been a continuous decline in growth rate of cases during the phases of lockdown and subsequently also in Unlock 1.0.

The OSD also informed that the number of cases and deaths per lakh of population in India are amongst the lowest in the world.

During the interaction, the chief ministers talked about health infrastructure available to meet the challenge and steps taken to strengthen it further.

They also spoke about the support provided to frontline workers, monitoring in containment zones, campaigns to encourage usage of masks and other safety precautions, increase in testing, and providing gainful employment opportunities to the migrants who have returned.

Home Minister Amit Shah, who also took part in the virtual meeting, said the country has so far been quite successful in the fight against the virus.

He, however, cautioned that the "battle is far from over".

Shah underlined that as the country begins to unlock, people must stay vigilant.

He requested all the chief ministers to encourage the download of Aarogya Setu app to act as a "self-shield" for protection.

Continuing with his consultations with state governments on ways to check the spread of coronavirus during 'unlock 1.0', Modi held a consultation with the chief ministers for the second consecutive day.

Chief ministers of Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were among those who attended the meeting on Wednesday.

It assumed importance as some of these states account for a majority of the cases in the country.

The indicators of economic performance are showing signs of revival following the reduction in restrictions imposed during the coronavirus lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as he told chief ministers to think about 'Unlock 2.

The indicators of economic performance are showing signs of revival following the reduction in restrictions imposed during the coronavirus lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as he told chief ministers to think about 'Unlock 2.0' and also ways to minimise infection. He noted that the spread of COVID-19 is more in a few big states and cities and urged the chief ministers to make full use of their state's existing testing capacity and also work to augment health infrastructure. He said there was a need to "fight" rumours that the lockdown could be reimposed. Speaking to chief ministers and representatives of 14 states and the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Modi said big crowds, lack of physical-distancing, daily movement of large number of people and small houses in some cities have made the battle against coronavirus "more challenging". This was the second day of Modi's sixth round of consultations with chief ministers on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Saving lives should be the top priority, he said, and called for expanding health infrastructure, according to a statement. He underlined the need to "fight rumours of lockdown", pointing out that the country is now in the "phase of unlocking". "We need to now think about phase 2 of Unlock and how to minimise all possibilities of harm to our people," he said according to the statement. He noted that with reduced restrictions, indicators of economic performance are showing signs of revival. Inflation has also been kept under control and asked states to take steps to boost infrastructure and construction-related activities. In a word of caution, Modi referred to the rise in the number of infections and underscored the need for testing, tracking, tracing and isolating COVID-19 patients to deal with the pandemic. There has been criticism that some states and cities, including Delhi, are not doing enough testing. The prime minister, however, stated that the number of recovered patients has also been rising, and added that it is a matter of relief that very few patients needed ICU and ventilator care. People's discipline during the nationwide lockdown has stopped the virus' exponential growth, he said, adding that India is now better placed than earlier vis-à-vis treating patients, health infrastructure and trained manpower. Citing the details of the boost in capacity to deal with the virus, he asked states to continue to put emphasis on "health Infrastructure, information systems, emotional support and public participation". Praising efforts of states and local administration, he said the country now has more than 900 COVID-19 testing labs, lakhs of special beds, thousands of isolation and quarantine centres, adequate stocks of testing kits, with over one crore personal protective equipment (PPEs) and almost same numbers of N-95 masks supplied to states. Despite a rise in coronavirus cases in a few places, people's patience, administration's work and dedication of corona warriors have ensured that things did not go out of control, he said. Stressing on the importance of providing timely information, the prime minister said it should be ensured that helplines are not "helpless" but helpful for people. He called for building teams of senior doctors and young volunteers to guide patients through telemedicine and run helplines, respectively. Modi also called for fighting the stigma associated with the disease, saying people should be assured that there is no need to panic if somebody has been infected as the number of those cured is huge. He highlighted the need to keep reminding people of the benefits of sanitisation, wearing masks and social distancing to fight the virus. He asked states to share their best practices with each other. An officer on special duty in the Union Health Ministry told the participants that there has been a continuous decline in growth rate of cases during the phases of lockdown and subsequently also in Unlock 1.0. The OSD also informed that the number of cases and deaths per lakh of population in India are amongst the lowest in the world. During the interaction, the chief ministers talked about health infrastructure available to meet the challenge and steps taken to strengthen it further. They also spoke about the support provided to frontline workers, monitoring in containment zones, campaigns to encourage usage of masks and other safety precautions, increase in testing, and providing gainful employment opportunities to the migrants who have returned. Home Minister Amit Shah, who also took part in the virtual meeting, said the country has so far been quite successful in the fight against the virus. He, however, cautioned that the "battle is far from over". Shah underlined that as the country begins to unlock, people must stay vigilant. He requested all the chief ministers to encourage the download of Aarogya Setu app to act as a "self-shield" for protection. Continuing with his consultations with state governments on ways to check the spread of coronavirus during 'unlock 1.0', Modi held a consultation with the chief ministers for the second consecutive day. Chief ministers of Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were among those who attended the meeting on Wednesday. It assumed importance as some of these states account for a majority of the cases in the country.

Need to think about Unlock 2.0: PM Modi to chief ministers

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology.

"In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14th June, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16,618 test samples collected on June 15 and 16 (till 14th June daily collection varied between 4000-4500). Reports of 6,510 tests received so far, remaining to be received by 18th June," an MHA spokesperson tweeted.

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In pursuance of decisions taken by HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> on 14thjune, to double the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> testing in Delhi; 16618 test samples collected on 15&amp;16 June(till 14th June daily collection varied b/w 4000-4500). Reports of 6510 tests received so far,remaining to be received by 18th June.
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273261517593391105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High-level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400," the spokesperson said in another tweet.

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As per the directives of HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> in providing relief to the common man. High level expert committee's report on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> testing rates received by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400.
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273263094676873219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, Shah held two high-level meetings with the Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, mayors and commissioners of Delhi's three municipal corporations to strengthen the strategy to fight the pandemic.

After the first meeting, a committee was constituted under the chairmanship of V K Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, to ensure that 60 per cent beds are available at private hospitals at lower rates.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology. "In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14th June, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16,618 test samples collected on June 15 and 16 (till 14th June daily collection varied between 4000-4500). Reports of 6,510 tests received so far, remaining to be received by 18th June," an MHA spokesperson tweeted. In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14thjune, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16618 test samples collected on 15&16 June(till 14th June daily collection varied b/w 4000-4500). Reports of 6510 tests received so far,remaining to be received by 18th June. — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 17, 2020 × "As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High-level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400," the spokesperson said in another tweet. As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400. — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 17, 2020 × On Sunday, Shah held two high-level meetings with the Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, mayors and commissioners of Delhi's three municipal corporations to strengthen the strategy to fight the pandemic. After the first meeting, a committee was constituted under the chairmanship of V K Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, to ensure that 60 per cent beds are available at private hospitals at lower rates. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 tests in Delhi to be capped at Rs 2400, says Home Ministry

Beijing brought in pieces of machinery, cut a trail into a Himalayan mountainside and may have even dammed a river -- in the days leading up to the most violent border clash between India and China in decades -- as suggested by satellite pictures.

The images, shot on Tuesday, a day after soldiers engaged in hand-to-hand combat in the freezing Galwan Valley, show an increase in activity from a week earlier.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in an attack by Chinese troops on Monday night at a time when top commanders had agreed to defuse tensions on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), or the disputed and poorly defined border between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-we-know-about-india-china-clash-along-lac-306519">IN PICS |&nbsp;What we know about India-China clash along LAC</a>

China rejected the allegations and blamed frontline Indian soldiers for provoking the conflict which took place at the freezing height of 14,000 feet (4,300 metres) in the western Himalayas.

The 4,056-km (2,520-mile) border between India and China runs through glaciers, snow deserts and rivers in the west to thickly forested mountains in the east.

The Galwan Valley is an arid, inhospitable area, where some soldiers are deployed on steep ridges. It is considered important because it leads to the Aksai Chin, a disputed plateau claimed by India but controlled by China.

The satellite pictures, taken by Earth-imaging company Planet Labs and obtained by Reuters, show signs of altering the landscape of the valley through widening tracks, moving earth and making river crossings, one expert said.

The images shows machinery along the bald mountains and in the Galwan River.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-what-happened-in-nathu-la-in-1967-306590">Also read |&nbsp;India-China border dispute: What happened in Nathu La in 1967</a>

"Looking at it in Planet, it looks like China is constructing roads in the valley and possibly damming the river," the director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at California’s Middlebury Institute of International Studies said.

The clash was the most serious since 1967. Since early May, soldiers have faced off on the border where India says Chinese troops had intruded and set up temporary structures. The confrontation turned into a deadly brawl on Monday.

India and China have not exchanged gunfire at the border since 1967, despite occasional flare-ups.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman rejected the Indian version of the events. "The rights and wrongs of this incident are very clear. The responsibility does not lie with China."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-war-on-india-decoding-xi-jinping-and-his-quest-for-power-306627">Also read |&nbsp;China's war on India: Decoding Xi Jinping and his quest for power</a>

Beijing brought in pieces of machinery, cut a trail into a Himalayan mountainside and may have even dammed a river -- in the days leading up to the most violent border clash between India and China in decades -- as suggested by satellite pictures.

Beijing brought in pieces of machinery, cut a trail into a Himalayan mountainside and may have even dammed a river -- in the days leading up to the most violent border clash between India and China in decades -- as suggested by satellite pictures. The images, shot on Tuesday, a day after soldiers engaged in hand-to-hand combat in the freezing Galwan Valley, show an increase in activity from a week earlier. Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in an attack by Chinese troops on Monday night at a time when top commanders had agreed to defuse tensions on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), or the disputed and poorly defined border between the nuclear-armed neighbours. IN PICS | What we know about India-China clash along LAC China rejected the allegations and blamed frontline Indian soldiers for provoking the conflict which took place at the freezing height of 14,000 feet (4,300 metres) in the western Himalayas. The 4,056-km (2,520-mile) border between India and China runs through glaciers, snow deserts and rivers in the west to thickly forested mountains in the east. The Galwan Valley is an arid, inhospitable area, where some soldiers are deployed on steep ridges. It is considered important because it leads to the Aksai Chin, a disputed plateau claimed by India but controlled by China. The satellite pictures, taken by Earth-imaging company Planet Labs and obtained by Reuters, show signs of altering the landscape of the valley through widening tracks, moving earth and making river crossings, one expert said. The images shows machinery along the bald mountains and in the Galwan River. Also read | India-China border dispute: What happened in Nathu La in 1967 "Looking at it in Planet, it looks like China is constructing roads in the valley and possibly damming the river," the director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at California’s Middlebury Institute of International Studies said. The clash was the most serious since 1967. Since early May, soldiers have faced off on the border where India says Chinese troops had intruded and set up temporary structures. The confrontation turned into a deadly brawl on Monday. India and China have not exchanged gunfire at the border since 1967, despite occasional flare-ups. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman rejected the Indian version of the events. "The rights and wrongs of this incident are very clear. The responsibility does not lie with China." Also read | China's war on India: Decoding Xi Jinping and his quest for power

Satellite images suggest Chinese activity at Himalayan border with India before clash

Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir Dilbag Singh today chaired a high-level meeting of officers to review the security scenario of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir particularly on the borders where he said that in view of the Ladakh standoff, Pakistan will try to infiltrate more terrorists and also give impetus to violence in Kashmir Valley and elsewhere.

DGP Singh further said that cross border infiltration attempts are being made continuously from Pakistan even during this pandemic and we have to be extra alert to thwart all such attempts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/top-generals-briefed-on-national-and-regional-security-situations-pak-army-306924">Also read|&nbsp;Top generals briefed on national and regional security situations: Pak army</a>

The meeting was held at Police Headquarters, Jammu. It was attended by senior officials of the police, Army and the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). At the outset of the meeting, the officers paid tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty in Galwan Valley, Ladakh a couple of days ago. The officers expressed their sympathies with the bereaved families of the martyrs.

In his address, the DGP Dilbag Singh complimented the Police, Army, and CAPF for outstanding performance and impressed that we must continue with the efforts to maintain peace and create a further conducive environment.He said, "Our officers and jawans of Police, CAPF and the Army are continuing with successful operations in counter-insurgency grid and on borders."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-military-top-brass-visit-isi-headquarter-discuss-kashmir-306458">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan military top brass visit ISI headquarter, discuss Kashmir</a>

He said that the border alongside Pakistan needs extra attention in view of the Ladakh developments. He pointed out that there are reports that terrorist outfits in Pakistan JeM, HM, LeT, etc are joining hands to create mischiefs in our Union Territory. He also said that there are greater challenges for which we have to be prepared in the changing environment. He directed the officers to take care of the vital installations as also review minority guards.

He also said that the security presence on the highway grid has been increased by putting in service mobile patrols and the number of Nakas has also been increased.

DGP of J-K also said that there is an urgent need to fill up space in social media as anti-national feelings can be whipped up which we need to guard against.During the meeting, ceasefire violations and infiltration dynamics were discussed. It was said that there are a number of camps all across the borders in various sectors where terrorists are ready to infiltrate.

IGP of Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu NS Jamwal gave a PowerPoint presentation with regard to strengthening of border grid and briefed about the security plans being made on LC and IB.

Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir Dilbag Singh today chaired a high-level meeting of officers to review the security scenario of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir particularly on the borders where he said that in view of the Ladakh standoff, Pakistan will try to infiltrate more terrorists and also give impetus to violence in Kashmir Valley and elsewhere.

Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir Dilbag Singh today chaired a high-level meeting of officers to review the security scenario of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir particularly on the borders where he said that in view of the Ladakh standoff, Pakistan will try to infiltrate more terrorists and also give impetus to violence in Kashmir Valley and elsewhere. DGP Singh further said that cross border infiltration attempts are being made continuously from Pakistan even during this pandemic and we have to be extra alert to thwart all such attempts. Also read| Top generals briefed on national and regional security situations: Pak army The meeting was held at Police Headquarters, Jammu. It was attended by senior officials of the police, Army and the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). At the outset of the meeting, the officers paid tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty in Galwan Valley, Ladakh a couple of days ago. The officers expressed their sympathies with the bereaved families of the martyrs. In his address, the DGP Dilbag Singh complimented the Police, Army, and CAPF for outstanding performance and impressed that we must continue with the efforts to maintain peace and create a further conducive environment.He said, "Our officers and jawans of Police, CAPF and the Army are continuing with successful operations in counter-insurgency grid and on borders." Also read| Pakistan military top brass visit ISI headquarter, discuss Kashmir He said that the border alongside Pakistan needs extra attention in view of the Ladakh developments. He pointed out that there are reports that terrorist outfits in Pakistan JeM, HM, LeT, etc are joining hands to create mischiefs in our Union Territory. He also said that there are greater challenges for which we have to be prepared in the changing environment. He directed the officers to take care of the vital installations as also review minority guards. He also said that the security presence on the highway grid has been increased by putting in service mobile patrols and the number of Nakas has also been increased. DGP of J-K also said that there is an urgent need to fill up space in social media as anti-national feelings can be whipped up which we need to guard against.During the meeting, ceasefire violations and infiltration dynamics were discussed. It was said that there are a number of camps all across the borders in various sectors where terrorists are ready to infiltrate. IGP of Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu NS Jamwal gave a PowerPoint presentation with regard to strengthening of border grid and briefed about the security plans being made on LC and IB.

J&K DGP Dilbag Singh chairs high-level security meeting in view of Ladakh standoff

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home.

As they came back to their home country, the students were worried about the status of their current visa, and the post-study work visa.

Putting their concerns to end, the UK Home Office has assured the students that the Graduate Visa route, commonly referred to as a post-study work visa, will apply to the 2020-21 intake.

However, the students will have to be physically present in the UK by&nbsp;April 2021 to complete the final semester.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-changes-stand-to-now-use-google-apple-model-for-coronavirus-tracing-app-306865">Also read:&nbsp;UK changes stand, to now use Google-Apple model for coronavirus tracing app</a>

"Students will normally be expected to undertake their studies in the UK to be eligible for the Graduate route. However, if students are required to either continue their current studies or commence a new course by distance or blended learning due to COVID-19, they will still be eligible to switch into the Graduate route on a concessionary basis if they spent some time studying outside the UK,"&nbsp;notes the Home Office guidance issued this week.

The students will only be avail these benefits&nbsp;if they enter the UK before 6 April 2021 and complete the final semester of their studies in the UK,"&nbsp;the guidance read.

The Graduate visa allows students to remain in the UK for two years after graduation to work, or look for work. The visa was earlier allotted for three months, post completing of the course. However, starting from this year, the time period was increased to two years. Some organisations are lobbying the UK government to further extend the time period to three to four years to match their competitive countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home.

Due to the worldwide lockdown initiated to control the spread of novel coronavirus, many Indian students who were pursuing higher education from the UK returned back home. As they came back to their home country, the students were worried about the status of their current visa, and the post-study work visa. Putting their concerns to end, the UK Home Office has assured the students that the Graduate Visa route, commonly referred to as a post-study work visa, will apply to the 2020-21 intake. However, the students will have to be physically present in the UK by April 2021 to complete the final semester. Also read: UK changes stand, to now use Google-Apple model for coronavirus tracing app "Students will normally be expected to undertake their studies in the UK to be eligible for the Graduate route. However, if students are required to either continue their current studies or commence a new course by distance or blended learning due to COVID-19, they will still be eligible to switch into the Graduate route on a concessionary basis if they spent some time studying outside the UK," notes the Home Office guidance issued this week. The students will only be avail these benefits if they enter the UK before 6 April 2021 and complete the final semester of their studies in the UK," the guidance read. The Graduate visa allows students to remain in the UK for two years after graduation to work, or look for work. The visa was earlier allotted for three months, post completing of the course. However, starting from this year, the time period was increased to two years. Some organisations are lobbying the UK government to further extend the time period to three to four years to match their competitive countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

Post-study work visa eligible for Indian students in UK amid COVID-19 crisis

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237.

According to the official, out of the 2,134 COVID-19 patients in Mumbai’s Dharavi, 1,055 have already recovered from the infection and discharged from hospitals.

Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally increased by 3,752 cases to 1, 20,504, while 100 more patients succumbed to the infection, said a health department official. The state reported death of 100 people due to coronavirus, taking the toll to 5,751, he said here.

Maharashtra Covid-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 1, 20,504, new cases 3,752, deaths 5,751, discharged 60,838, active cases 53,901, people tested so far 7, 17,683.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237.

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237. According to the official, out of the 2,134 COVID-19 patients in Mumbai’s Dharavi, 1,055 have already recovered from the infection and discharged from hospitals. Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally increased by 3,752 cases to 1, 20,504, while 100 more patients succumbed to the infection, said a health department official. The state reported death of 100 people due to coronavirus, taking the toll to 5,751, he said here. Maharashtra Covid-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 1, 20,504, new cases 3,752, deaths 5,751, discharged 60,838, active cases 53,901, people tested so far 7, 17,683. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra reports 100 deaths, 28 fresh cases in Mumbai’s Dharavi; total tally at 1, 20,504

India's health ministry on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases with 12,881 infections&nbsp;in the last 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-health-minister-satyendar-jain-tests-positive-for-covid-19-306571">Also Read:&nbsp;Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain tests positive for COVID-19</a>

The ministry also reported 334 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of coronavirus cases in the country going up to 3,66,946 including 1,60,384 active cases.

The total death toll due to the virus has shot up to 12,237. The home ministry said 1,94,325 have been cured of the virus and discharged from hospital.&nbsp;

India had recorded 10,974 new coronavirus cases with 2,003 deaths on Wednesday.

India's national capital reported 2,414 coronavirus cases which is the highest single-day spike in the number of cases along with 67 deaths. The total number of positive cases has risen to 47,102, including 1,904 deaths.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Police reported three deaths and 28 new coronavirus cases as the number of cases shot up to 3,689 with 1,033 active cases in the forces. There have been 45 fatalities due to the virus in the state police force.

In Gujarat, there were 520 coronavirus cases along with 27 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 25,148. The state health department said that 17,438 patients have been dicharged from the hospital after being cured.

Chattishgarh health department said that 71 COVID-19 cases were reported with the number of cases rising to 1864.

India's health ministry on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases with 12,881 infections in the last 24 hours. Also Read: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain tests positive for COVID-19 The ministry also reported 334 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of coronavirus cases in the country going up to 3,66,946 including 1,60,384 active cases.

India's health ministry on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases with 12,881 infections in the last 24 hours. Also Read: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain tests positive for COVID-19 The ministry also reported 334 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of coronavirus cases in the country going up to 3,66,946 including 1,60,384 active cases. The total death toll due to the virus has shot up to 12,237. The home ministry said 1,94,325 have been cured of the virus and discharged from hospital. India had recorded 10,974 new coronavirus cases with 2,003 deaths on Wednesday. India's national capital reported 2,414 coronavirus cases which is the highest single-day spike in the number of cases along with 67 deaths. The total number of positive cases has risen to 47,102, including 1,904 deaths. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Police reported three deaths and 28 new coronavirus cases as the number of cases shot up to 3,689 with 1,033 active cases in the forces. There have been 45 fatalities due to the virus in the state police force. In Gujarat, there were 520 coronavirus cases along with 27 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 25,148. The state health department said that 17,438 patients have been dicharged from the hospital after being cured. Chattishgarh health department said that 71 COVID-19 cases were reported with the number of cases rising to 1864.

India reports highest spike in coronavirus cases; death toll rises to 12,237

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable".&nbsp;

"As we have conveyed earlier today, External Affairs Minister and the State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China had a phone conversation on recent developments in Ladakh," &nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-aware-of-india-china-face-off-white-house-306665">Donald Trump aware of India-China face-off: White House</a>

"Both sides have agreed that the overall situation should be handled in a responsible manner and that the understandings reached between Senior Commanders on 6th June should be implemented sincerely. Making exaggerated and untenable claims is contrary to this understanding."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-galwan-valley-has-become-the-flashpoint-in-india-china-conflict-once-again-306607">Why Galwan Valley has become the flashpoint in India-China conflict once again?</a>

India's response came after Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lijian Zhao on Wednesday said that sovereignty over the Galwan Valley has always belonged to China and the Indian border forces seriously violated Chinese border protocols and consensus reached on commander-level talks.&nbsp;

As many as 20 members of Indian forces were killed in a clash with Chinese troops late on Monday in Ladakh, the first in the region since 1962 during the war between both the countries.&nbsp;

The MEA on Wednesday also warned China that the Galwan Valley incident will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relations and asked Beijing to reassess its actions and take corrective steps.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable".

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable". "As we have conveyed earlier today, External Affairs Minister and the State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China had a phone conversation on recent developments in Ladakh," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. Also read | Donald Trump aware of India-China face-off: White House "Both sides have agreed that the overall situation should be handled in a responsible manner and that the understandings reached between Senior Commanders on 6th June should be implemented sincerely. Making exaggerated and untenable claims is contrary to this understanding." Also read | Why Galwan Valley has become the flashpoint in India-China conflict once again? India's response came after Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lijian Zhao on Wednesday said that sovereignty over the Galwan Valley has always belonged to China and the Indian border forces seriously violated Chinese border protocols and consensus reached on commander-level talks. As many as 20 members of Indian forces were killed in a clash with Chinese troops late on Monday in Ladakh, the first in the region since 1962 during the war between both the countries. The MEA on Wednesday also warned China that the Galwan Valley incident will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relations and asked Beijing to reassess its actions and take corrective steps.

China's claims over Galwan Valley 'exaggerated and untenable': India

Tamil Nadu’s Capital City, Chennai, and its three adjoining districts are to be under a 12-day lockdown starting from the morning of June 19 until June 30. While all of India is on ‘unlock’ starting June, Tamil Nadu has become the only state to announce a strict lockdown, based on the suggestions of an expert medical committee.&nbsp;

This 12-day lockdown announcement which was made on Monday, had come as a real surprise to the people of Tamil Nadu. Last week, when there were talks of an impending lockdown, the Chief Minister himself quelled them and termed them “rumors”,&nbsp;only to make a public flip-flop on Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-orders-intense-lockdown-in-chennai-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-306240">Also read|&nbsp;Tamil Nadu government orders 'intense lockdown' in Chennai amid rising COVID-19 cases</a>

A member of the expert committee who is advising the State government told WION that the committee had only suggested few specific strategies and not a lockdown. However, the government had decided to go in for a lockdown based on the decisions taken at their cabinet meeting. The senior medical professional emphasised that the government needed to focus on better inter-department coordination and monitor ground-level implementation of its initiatives. The committee had also suggested that the government go in for rapid testing and more mobile clinics.&nbsp;

At a time when Tamil Nadu has surpassed a total of 52,000 COVID-19 cases, experts that WION spoke to say that the government needs to plan and execute many more steps in tandem with the lockdown. These steps are highly crucial at a time when the state has been seeing over 2,000 new cases for the last two days.

Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan said that a 12-day lockdown alone would be inadequate to interrupt the transmission. “To interrupt transmission, mathematical models suggest at least a three week lockdown. We also need a clear audit process to verify the grassroots data that health workers are collecting on a door-to-door basis. Only when we have authentic data can the authorities plan adequately and take measures,” he told WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/senior-staff-in-tamil-nadu-cmo-succumbs-to-covid-19-colleagues-push-for-more-safety-measures-306518">Also read|&nbsp;Senior staff in Tamil Nadu CMO succumbs to Covid-19; colleagues push for more safety measures</a>

When asked about the top precautions that the public must follow on during the lockdown,&nbsp;Dr. Swaminathan emphasised on the need of wearing masks and following social distancing. “In most areas with high cases, people are not wearing masks, that’s why there is an explosion of cases. When we compare between disinfectant spraying and wearing of masks, mask-wearing is more important in controlling transmission at source,” he added.&nbsp;

Public health experts reiterated the view that lockdowns need to be bolstered with additional measures, which are strictly implemented at the ground level. They feel that the public have the larger responsibility of following basic cleanliness and health practices to keep danger at bay.&nbsp;

“Washing out hands with soap is far more effective than using sanitizers. Sanitizers can be used for disinfecting medical equipment, personal belongings, billing counters etc. We must keep the elderly people indoors and ensure that they take their medication (for existing heath issues) regularly, besides healthy food. Health workers on door-to-door campaigns can also use pulse oximeters to check the health of those who are vulnerable,” Dr. Kolandaisamy, Retired Director of Public Health, told WION.&nbsp;

Lockdowns are not just about restrictions, but about performing more tests and tracing, isolating the affected individuals. “Tamil Nadu has done nearly 25,000 tests on Wednesday alone and it is a significant number. The authorities have been talking about scaling up efforts in coming days. When this is done consistently for about a month or more, then definitely we will be able to bring the situation under control,” Healthcare Consultant and Senior journalist Dr. Sumanth C Raman told WION.&nbsp;

While wearing a mask is important, doctors don’t recommend the N-95 and 3-ply masks for common people. They say that two-layered, washable cotton masks would be adequate, whereas a dupatta or a handkerchief would not be advised.&nbsp;

“In case one feels sore throat, body ache, tasteless sensation, loss of sense of smell or other symptoms, they can isolate themselves at home for a few days. If the condition persists for a few days, they must reach out for medical help, before they suffer breathlessness and reach a hospital immediately. After recovery as well, it is imperative to be under quarantine for seven to ten days,” Dr. Ramasubramanian, Infectious Diseases Specialist told WION.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Capital City, Chennai, and its three adjoining districts are to be under a 12-day lockdown starting from the morning of June 19 until June 30. While all of India is on ‘unlock’ starting June, Tamil Nadu has become the only state to announce a strict lockdown, based on the suggestions of an expert medical committee.

Tamil Nadu’s Capital City, Chennai, and its three adjoining districts are to be under a 12-day lockdown starting from the morning of June 19 until June 30. While all of India is on ‘unlock’ starting June, Tamil Nadu has become the only state to announce a strict lockdown, based on the suggestions of an expert medical committee. This 12-day lockdown announcement which was made on Monday, had come as a real surprise to the people of Tamil Nadu. Last week, when there were talks of an impending lockdown, the Chief Minister himself quelled them and termed them “rumors”, only to make a public flip-flop on Monday. Also read| Tamil Nadu government orders 'intense lockdown' in Chennai amid rising COVID-19 cases A member of the expert committee who is advising the State government told WION that the committee had only suggested few specific strategies and not a lockdown. However, the government had decided to go in for a lockdown based on the decisions taken at their cabinet meeting. The senior medical professional emphasised that the government needed to focus on better inter-department coordination and monitor ground-level implementation of its initiatives. The committee had also suggested that the government go in for rapid testing and more mobile clinics. At a time when Tamil Nadu has surpassed a total of 52,000 COVID-19 cases, experts that WION spoke to say that the government needs to plan and execute many more steps in tandem with the lockdown. These steps are highly crucial at a time when the state has been seeing over 2,000 new cases for the last two days. Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan said that a 12-day lockdown alone would be inadequate to interrupt the transmission. “To interrupt transmission, mathematical models suggest at least a three week lockdown. We also need a clear audit process to verify the grassroots data that health workers are collecting on a door-to-door basis. Only when we have authentic data can the authorities plan adequately and take measures,” he told WION. Also read| Senior staff in Tamil Nadu CMO succumbs to Covid-19; colleagues push for more safety measures When asked about the top precautions that the public must follow on during the lockdown, Dr. Swaminathan emphasised on the need of wearing masks and following social distancing. “In most areas with high cases, people are not wearing masks, that’s why there is an explosion of cases. When we compare between disinfectant spraying and wearing of masks, mask-wearing is more important in controlling transmission at source,” he added. Public health experts reiterated the view that lockdowns need to be bolstered with additional measures, which are strictly implemented at the ground level. They feel that the public have the larger responsibility of following basic cleanliness and health practices to keep danger at bay. “Washing out hands with soap is far more effective than using sanitizers. Sanitizers can be used for disinfecting medical equipment, personal belongings, billing counters etc. We must keep the elderly people indoors and ensure that they take their medication (for existing heath issues) regularly, besides healthy food. Health workers on door-to-door campaigns can also use pulse oximeters to check the health of those who are vulnerable,” Dr. Kolandaisamy, Retired Director of Public Health, told WION. Lockdowns are not just about restrictions, but about performing more tests and tracing, isolating the affected individuals. “Tamil Nadu has done nearly 25,000 tests on Wednesday alone and it is a significant number. The authorities have been talking about scaling up efforts in coming days. When this is done consistently for about a month or more, then definitely we will be able to bring the situation under control,” Healthcare Consultant and Senior journalist Dr. Sumanth C Raman told WION. While wearing a mask is important, doctors don’t recommend the N-95 and 3-ply masks for common people. They say that two-layered, washable cotton masks would be adequate, whereas a dupatta or a handkerchief would not be advised. “In case one feels sore throat, body ache, tasteless sensation, loss of sense of smell or other symptoms, they can isolate themselves at home for a few days. If the condition persists for a few days, they must reach out for medical help, before they suffer breathlessness and reach a hospital immediately. After recovery as well, it is imperative to be under quarantine for seven to ten days,” Dr. Ramasubramanian, Infectious Diseases Specialist told WION.

Complete lockdown to be initiated in Tamil Nadu; experts demand more planning and action

As the number of coronavirus cases are on a rise in India, the condition in national capital Delhi has been getting worse with every passing day.

According to five-member committee formed by the Delhi government,&nbsp;Delhi is likely to see at least one lakh COVID-19 cases by end of this month.

The Delhi government has increased the testing. Delhi's&nbsp;Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia,&nbsp;said rapid antigen testing was conducted at 193 centres on Thursday. A total of 7,040 people were tested, of which 456 tested positive. People who live in containment zones are being tested in the initial stage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tests-in-delhi-to-be-capped-at-rs-2400-says-home-ministry-306628">Also read:&nbsp;Covid-19 tests in Delhi to be capped at Rs 2400, says Home Ministry</a>

To keep up with this rising figure, the Delhi government is using every available possible space as a COVID centre, and arranging more beds and ventilators, to make sure that all patients get proper care.

On Thursday, Railway Board Chairman Vinod Kumar Yadav visited Anand Vihar terminal where around 300 COVID care isolation coaches have been set up.&nbsp;
<img alt="AAP MLA tweeted an image from Maharashtra's COVID facility, claiming it to be a new facility set up by Delhi government" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d5b20d4-5f22-4a2d-b368-a01de54ad594" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2823%29_15.jpg" />
While informing about such new centre inspection,&nbsp;members of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and several others posted images on social media claiming that a 2,500-bed facility is being prepared in Delhi’s Pragati Maidan by the Delhi government. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While the tweet was also shard by official Twitter account of party's Jharkhand branch (the tweets have now been removed), a&nbsp;Maharashtra Congress MLA Zeeshan Siddiqui pointed out that the pictures being circulated were actually taken from his constituency where he had inaugurated a 1,000-bed isolation centre in the Bandra-Kurla complex recently.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I wonder how ready delhi is because that picture has ME walking inside our Covid-19 modular hospital at BKC,Bandra East - MUMBAI. 
This was when we were setting the hospital up. I don’t remember visiting Delhi anytime in the recent past so clearly that’s not delhi. <a href="https://t.co/3ji4ZXRJF5">https://t.co/3ji4ZXRJF5</a>
— Zeeshan Siddique (@zeeshan_iyc) <a href="https://twitter.com/zeeshan_iyc/status/1272446616016793602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The images started circulating after&nbsp;Lt Governor Anil Baijal and AAP leader Sanjay Singh had suggested using Pragati Maidan as a COVID-19 facility.

However,the party was quick to admit and apologize for its mistake after Siddiqui's tweet. A member of the party's social media team, Piyush Kak, responded to Siddiqui’s tweet with an apology.

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I personally Apologize for this post. <a href="https://t.co/p7Jx7DyDHW">https://t.co/p7Jx7DyDHW</a>
— Piyushakak4 (@piyushakak4) <a href="https://twitter.com/piyushakak4/status/1272454420786274304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi's coronavirus toll&nbsp;right now stands at almost 47,000, out of which nearly 17,457 have recovered more than 1,900 have succumbed to the virus.

As the number of coronavirus cases are on a rise in India, the condition in national capital Delhi has been getting worse with every passing day. According to five-member committee formed by the Delhi government, Delhi is likely to see at least one lakh COVID-19 cases by end of this month.

As the number of coronavirus cases are on a rise in India, the condition in national capital Delhi has been getting worse with every passing day. According to five-member committee formed by the Delhi government, Delhi is likely to see at least one lakh COVID-19 cases by end of this month. The Delhi government has increased the testing. Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, said rapid antigen testing was conducted at 193 centres on Thursday. A total of 7,040 people were tested, of which 456 tested positive. People who live in containment zones are being tested in the initial stage. Also read: Covid-19 tests in Delhi to be capped at Rs 2400, says Home Ministry To keep up with this rising figure, the Delhi government is using every available possible space as a COVID centre, and arranging more beds and ventilators, to make sure that all patients get proper care. On Thursday, Railway Board Chairman Vinod Kumar Yadav visited Anand Vihar terminal where around 300 COVID care isolation coaches have been set up. While informing about such new centre inspection, members of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and several others posted images on social media claiming that a 2,500-bed facility is being prepared in Delhi’s Pragati Maidan by the Delhi government. While the tweet was also shard by official Twitter account of party's Jharkhand branch (the tweets have now been removed), a Maharashtra Congress MLA Zeeshan Siddiqui pointed out that the pictures being circulated were actually taken from his constituency where he had inaugurated a 1,000-bed isolation centre in the Bandra-Kurla complex recently. I wonder how ready delhi is because that picture has ME walking inside our Covid-19 modular hospital at BKC,Bandra East - MUMBAI. This was when we were setting the hospital up. I don’t remember visiting Delhi anytime in the recent past so clearly that’s not delhi. https://t.co/3ji4ZXRJF5 — Zeeshan Siddique (@zeeshan_iyc) June 15, 2020 × The images started circulating after Lt Governor Anil Baijal and AAP leader Sanjay Singh had suggested using Pragati Maidan as a COVID-19 facility. However,the party was quick to admit and apologize for its mistake after Siddiqui's tweet. A member of the party's social media team, Piyush Kak, responded to Siddiqui’s tweet with an apology. I personally Apologize for this post. https://t.co/p7Jx7DyDHW — Piyushakak4 (@piyushakak4) June 15, 2020 × Delhi's coronavirus toll right now stands at almost 47,000, out of which nearly 17,457 have recovered more than 1,900 have succumbed to the virus.

Fake COVID centre image spreads amid rising coronavirus cases in Delhi

The Indian Army issued a clarification after a leading global daily alleged "capture" of India's soldiers by China during the June 15 face-off between the troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley.&nbsp;

The armed forces issued a statement to categorically reject the report. It stated that no Indian soldier is missing.

There were reports that 10 Indian soldiers were missing from Monday night onwards after the clash in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed.&nbsp;

The Indian Army troops who were attacked and suffered fatal casualties on Monday night were carrying weapons, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar clarified. However, they did not fire on their adversaries.

In the meantime, the Major General-level dialogue is taking place at the site of attack at patrolling point 14 in Galwan valley on Thursday to ease out the tense situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Army issued a clarification after a leading global daily alleged "capture" of India's soldiers by China during the June 15 face-off between the troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley.

The Indian Army issued a clarification after a leading global daily alleged "capture" of India's soldiers by China during the June 15 face-off between the troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley. The armed forces issued a statement to categorically reject the report. It stated that no Indian soldier is missing. There were reports that 10 Indian soldiers were missing from Monday night onwards after the clash in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed. The Indian Army troops who were attacked and suffered fatal casualties on Monday night were carrying weapons, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar clarified. However, they did not fire on their adversaries. In the meantime, the Major General-level dialogue is taking place at the site of attack at patrolling point 14 in Galwan valley on Thursday to ease out the tense situation. (With inputs from agencies)

'No Indian troops missing': Indian Army clarifies 

As India clinched a seat as a non-permanent member at the UNSC, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar congratulated his team's effort at the UN high table.

"I am delighted that India has got into the United Nations Security Council with tremendous support," TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, said, adding, "I would like to express my gratitude to the member states of the United Nations for this ringing endorsement."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-elected-unopposed-as-a-non-permanent-member-to-united-nations-security-council-306641">Also Read:&nbsp;India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council</a>

India won 184 votes from 192 members who voted at the UN General Assembly while being unopposed in the Asia-Pacific category for the 2021-22 term. The country will start its term from January next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-disappointed-as-kenya-djibouti-fail-to-win-enough-votes-at-unsc-306668">Also Read:&nbsp;Canada disappointed as Kenya, Djibouti fail to win enough votes at UNSC</a>

"Peacekeeping has always been a part of our tradition and our history and contribution to UN peacekeeping has been second to none. So, we'll be looking very closely at issues relating to mandate to see how we can provide greater protection to our peacekeepers," Tirumurti asserted.&nbsp;

It is the eighth time India has been elected as a non-permanent member, it was elected for the&nbsp;first time in 1950-51 and most recently in 2011-12.

As India clinched a seat as a non-permanent member at the UNSC, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar congratulated his team's effort at the UN high table.

As India clinched a seat as a non-permanent member at the UNSC, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar congratulated his team's effort at the UN high table. "I am delighted that India has got into the United Nations Security Council with tremendous support," TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, said, adding, "I would like to express my gratitude to the member states of the United Nations for this ringing endorsement." Also Read: India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council India won 184 votes from 192 members who voted at the UN General Assembly while being unopposed in the Asia-Pacific category for the 2021-22 term. The country will start its term from January next year. Also Read: Canada disappointed as Kenya, Djibouti fail to win enough votes at UNSC "Peacekeeping has always been a part of our tradition and our history and contribution to UN peacekeeping has been second to none. So, we'll be looking very closely at issues relating to mandate to see how we can provide greater protection to our peacekeepers," Tirumurti asserted. It is the eighth time India has been elected as a non-permanent member, it was elected for the first time in 1950-51 and most recently in 2011-12.

Peacekeeping has always been a part of our tradition, says India's representative to UN

India on June 18 rejected the claims made by the Chinese, that sovereignty over the Galwan Valley area in Ladakh "always belonged to it", calling it 'untenable'.

India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims

PM Modi warned in a strong message to China after the Galwan valley fight on June 15 that marked the giant escalation after weeks of tension. PM said that he wanted to assure the nation that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in a clash with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in Ladakh would not go in vain and India.

India-China stand-off: PM Modi speaks after Ladakh clash, India wants peace

India was elected as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for a two-year term after winning 184 votes in the 193-member General Assembly.

India secures non-permanent UNSC seat | Elected from Asia-Pacific group

In the middle of the standoff that India has with China, the Indian Air Force has pushed a proposal to the government for acquiring 33 new fighter aircraft, including 21 MiG-29s and 12 Su-30MKIs from Russia.

"The Air Force has been working on this plan for some time but they have now fast-tracked the process and the proposals expected to be worth over Rs 6,000 crore would be placed before the Defence Ministry for its final approval next week at a high-level meeting," government sources said.

There is an effort to try, upgrade and induct more military hardware. These deals were in pipeline for a very long time.&nbsp;

MiG-29s are flown by the Air Force and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. The Air Force has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered reliable in the air defence roles.&nbsp;

Sukhois are very expensive to run primarily because they require two pilots compare to most of the plane where long 1 pilot is required but it is now felt that perhaps even though India has a large number of Sukhois but the additional number of Sukhois could be used in the difficult time.

(With inputs from ANI)

In the middle of the standoff that India has with China, the Indian Air Force has pushed a proposal to the government for acquiring 33 new fighter aircraft, including 21 MiG-29s and 12 Su-30MKIs from Russia.

In the middle of the standoff that India has with China, the Indian Air Force has pushed a proposal to the government for acquiring 33 new fighter aircraft, including 21 MiG-29s and 12 Su-30MKIs from Russia. "The Air Force has been working on this plan for some time but they have now fast-tracked the process and the proposals expected to be worth over Rs 6,000 crore would be placed before the Defence Ministry for its final approval next week at a high-level meeting," government sources said. There is an effort to try, upgrade and induct more military hardware. These deals were in pipeline for a very long time. MiG-29s are flown by the Air Force and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. The Air Force has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered reliable in the air defence roles. Sukhois are very expensive to run primarily because they require two pilots compare to most of the plane where long 1 pilot is required but it is now felt that perhaps even though India has a large number of Sukhois but the additional number of Sukhois could be used in the difficult time. (With inputs from ANI)

India to buy 21 MiG-29 and 12 Sukhoi fighter jets from Russia

In the biggest military confrontation between India and China in over five decades, at least 20 Indian Army soldiers were killed in a violent clash with Chinese troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley on Monday night

'Troops on border duty always carry arms' says EAM S Jaishankar

The US is "closely monitoring" the situation following a fierce clash between Indian and Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh, and hopes that the differences will be resolved peacefully.

WION Dispatch: 'No formal plans to mediate between India and China', says US

Congress MLA K Meghachandra Singh has submitted a notice to the Secretary of Manipur Assembly for the removal of the Assembly Speaker Yumnam Khemchand Singh for 'preponing the date for proceedings regarding disqualification of 7 Congress MLAs'.

These seven MLAs won the election on a Congress ticket in 2017 but defected later to BJP.

This came after three MLAs of the ruling BJP resigned and joined Congress. Four National People's Party (NPP) MLAs, an independent MLA and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA also withdrew support to the BJP-led government in the state.

Poll for one Rajya Sabha seat is also scheduled to be held on June 19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-responds-to-claim-over-galwan-valley-china-making-inevitable-claims-306738">Also watch|&nbsp;India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims</a>

In 60-member Manipur Assembly, BJP emerged victorious in the 2017 Assembly elections and N Biren Singh was sworn in as the Chief Minister of the state. BJP had won 21 seats while Congress bagged 28 seats. One Congress MLA, who had defected to BJP, was disqualified by the Speaker tribunal earlier.

BJP currently enjoys support from four Naga People's Front (NPF) MLAs and one legislator of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). After three resignations of three MLAs, BJP has 18 legislators left and have the support of five MLAs.

All the MLAs who had resigned and withdrawn their support from the N Biren Singh-led BJP government had a warm reception at an unidentified camp by Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee President M Okendro Singh, former MPCC presidents, G Gaikhangam, TN Haokip and Congress MLAs.

CLP leader Ibobi Singh said that he will be demanding for a floor test and stake claim to form the government.

Congress MLA K Meghachandra Singh has submitted a notice to the Secretary of Manipur Assembly for the removal of the Assembly Speaker Yumnam Khemchand Singh for 'preponing the date for proceedings regarding disqualification of 7 Congress MLAs'.

Congress MLA K Meghachandra Singh has submitted a notice to the Secretary of Manipur Assembly for the removal of the Assembly Speaker Yumnam Khemchand Singh for 'preponing the date for proceedings regarding disqualification of 7 Congress MLAs'. These seven MLAs won the election on a Congress ticket in 2017 but defected later to BJP. This came after three MLAs of the ruling BJP resigned and joined Congress. Four National People's Party (NPP) MLAs, an independent MLA and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA also withdrew support to the BJP-led government in the state. Poll for one Rajya Sabha seat is also scheduled to be held on June 19. Also watch| India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims In 60-member Manipur Assembly, BJP emerged victorious in the 2017 Assembly elections and N Biren Singh was sworn in as the Chief Minister of the state. BJP had won 21 seats while Congress bagged 28 seats. One Congress MLA, who had defected to BJP, was disqualified by the Speaker tribunal earlier. BJP currently enjoys support from four Naga People's Front (NPF) MLAs and one legislator of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). After three resignations of three MLAs, BJP has 18 legislators left and have the support of five MLAs. All the MLAs who had resigned and withdrawn their support from the N Biren Singh-led BJP government had a warm reception at an unidentified camp by Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee President M Okendro Singh, former MPCC presidents, G Gaikhangam, TN Haokip and Congress MLAs. CLP leader Ibobi Singh said that he will be demanding for a floor test and stake claim to form the government.

Congress submits notice to remove Manipur Assembly Speaker

Government of India on Thursday said that enhancing counter-terrorism action by the powerful UN body and depoliticizing the process of putting sanctions on terror entities will be among its top priorities.

Briefing the media on India's election to the UN body, Secretary West in the Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup made this statement hours after India won the non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term.

India was overwhelmingly elected as a non-permanent member of the powerful UN Security Council for a two-year term in an unprecedented election, in which envoys from the 192 member states voted wearing masks and in adherence to strict social distancing norms given the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Earlier also, when India was a member of the Security Council during 2011-12, we had chaired the United Nations counter-terrorism committee and had brought in the concept of 'zero tolerance to terrorism'," Swarup said.

"The process of sanctioning also needs to be depoliticised as there is no justification of any act of terrorism," Swarup said.&nbsp;

Asked if a Pakistani representative had raised a bilateral issue at the multilateral forum and politicised the platform, Swarup said this is the kind of behaviour "we have been seeing from Pakistan over the past many months and years".

"They always rake up bilateral issues in multilateral fora. They have made it almost a standard norm for their policy," Swarup said.

"As far as we are concerned, our foreign policy has a much broader canvas, we have a much wider and global focus and as a member of the UNSC, we will be dealing with all those issues which are under the consideration of the security council in line with priorities that the External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) has outlined," he said.

"Our work in the UNSC will be guided on our Prime Minister's call for reformed multilateralism, and the dynamic 5-S vision namely Samman (respect), Samvad (dialogue), Sahyog (cooperation), Shanti (peace) and Samriddhi (universal prosperity)," Swarup said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India on Thursday said that enhancing counter-terrorism action by the powerful UN body and depoliticizing the process of putting sanctions on terror entities will be among its top priorities.

Government of India on Thursday said that enhancing counter-terrorism action by the powerful UN body and depoliticizing the process of putting sanctions on terror entities will be among its top priorities. Briefing the media on India's election to the UN body, Secretary West in the Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup made this statement hours after India won the non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term. India was overwhelmingly elected as a non-permanent member of the powerful UN Security Council for a two-year term in an unprecedented election, in which envoys from the 192 member states voted wearing masks and in adherence to strict social distancing norms given the COVID-19 pandemic. "Earlier also, when India was a member of the Security Council during 2011-12, we had chaired the United Nations counter-terrorism committee and had brought in the concept of 'zero tolerance to terrorism'," Swarup said. "The process of sanctioning also needs to be depoliticised as there is no justification of any act of terrorism," Swarup said. Asked if a Pakistani representative had raised a bilateral issue at the multilateral forum and politicised the platform, Swarup said this is the kind of behaviour "we have been seeing from Pakistan over the past many months and years". "They always rake up bilateral issues in multilateral fora. They have made it almost a standard norm for their policy," Swarup said. "As far as we are concerned, our foreign policy has a much broader canvas, we have a much wider and global focus and as a member of the UNSC, we will be dealing with all those issues which are under the consideration of the security council in line with priorities that the External Affairs Minister (S Jaishankar) has outlined," he said. "Our work in the UNSC will be guided on our Prime Minister's call for reformed multilateralism, and the dynamic 5-S vision namely Samman (respect), Samvad (dialogue), Sahyog (cooperation), Shanti (peace) and Samriddhi (universal prosperity)," Swarup said. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan always rakes up bilateral issues in multilateral forums: MEA 

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