'EPIC TROLLING': Chinese glass firm cashes in on France riots with viral break-in video | Watch

Prasidh Krishna ruled out of New Zealand ODIs as BCCI pick replacement

Japan turns to India to test its long-range missiles & attack drones | Gravitas

Savannah River Site: Fire at US nuclear lab triggers 'radiological release' scare, shuts down rail, river, air traffic. What happened?

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

Pakistan closes its airspace to airlines from Taiwan, citing ‘One China’ policy

Israel election 2026: Netanyahu leads but falls short of majority with 85% of ballots counted; Arab parties could hold key

Disturbing photo shows California police officer smiling while kneeling on 66-year-old woman who died

Rs 18 Lakh Apple MacBook Pro? Apple launches new touchscreen models in India, check prices

Unclassified report reveals clearest photo of China's secret spaceplane Shenlong

Charging points in Indian trains to be switched off between 11pm to 5am. Here's why

Hindu population in Pakistan declines from 14.6% to less than 2%: Report

'Donald Trump is an idiot': Michigan candidate Abdul El-Sayed tears into Trump, calls JD Vance 'soulless' and Pete Hegseth a 'bully'

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

'Teach me how to fight': UAE president's special request to Indian pilot Smit Machchhar goes viral, head injuries visible for first time

Nepal suspends high-altitude trekking over avalanche, snowfall risk

Delhi cab driver stabbed several times for demanding 'extra chole', dies of injuries

'Icepick': Private info of over 41,000 DHS personnel, including ICE agents, leaked by hackers

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

Democrats release 53-page dossier on Trump's links with Epstein | Gravitas

Anil Agarwal returns to Bengal: Vedanta plans ₹60,000 crore power unit, 10,000 jobs, as industrial policy drops Nov 5

Daler Mehndi row: Subodh Uniyal rejects Mika Singh’s team’s claim that he apologised over Uttarakhand event

'He lost' vs 'they aren't serious people': Obama mocks Trump's Cheesecake Factory meltdown as rivals trade barbs at duelling rallies

Thousands protest against graft and forest fires in Indonesia

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar honoured by UAE for courage during Flydubai cockpit attack | VIDEO

Benjamin Netanyahu's party accuses Arab Parties of 'stealing' Israeli election, alleges widespread fraud

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

WATCH | Barack Obama’s slow-motion mic toss sends internet into a frenzy: ‘That man’s got swagger’

From Shilpa Shetty to Priyanka Chopra: How B-Town stars celebrated Karva Chauth 2026

SA vs AUS, 3rd Test: Protea opener Ackerman questions continuing play as SA lose advantage

Turns out, paper straws are the actual devil and can even cause cancer, South Korean study finds

'I threw Jeffrey Epstein the hell out of Mar-a-Lago': Trump explodes at heckler at Ohio rally

Dallas man's iPhone Duo gets stuck and breaks minutes after unboxing

Iran in talks with mediators on 7-day plan; Araghchi says Tehran giving diplomacy a chance

Galwan Valley is located at an altitude of almost 17,000 feet with extreme weather conditions and sub-zero temperatures. A valley that gets its name from the Galwan river - this 1960 claim line is the de facto of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the valley.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-the-galwan-valley-has-become-a-flashpoint-306642/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Galwan Valley falls under sub-sector north (SSN) and is one of the points that has direct access to Aksai Chin from India.

Galwan Valley has become a flashpoint in India-China conflict again because of India's construction in the area.

India is building a network of feeder roads which lead to the 224-km Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi road which is at least 10 kilometers inside the (Line of Actual Control) LAC. Daulat Beg Oldi is the northern-most corner of the Indian territory of Ladakh. 
 
<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>

It also houses the world's highest landing strip - the Daulat Beg Oldi landing strip. The Indian Air Force has successfully landed the C17 Globemaster aircraft here.

In case of a war or conflict, India can now ferry thousands of troops to the region within hours. China's fears intensified when India built a bridge, the Colonel Chewang Rinchen Setu, across the Shyok river. The idea was to facilitate Indian troop movement in the region.

Even before China could digest this, India began constructing another bridge across the Galwan Nullah. This concrete bridge is a part of the feeder road project and it replaces an existing wooden structure, to allow heavy military movement.

It was this bridge that triggered the latest standoff. A nervous China deployed its troops along the LAC to put pressure on India to stop road construction. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/35-chinese-soldiers-dead-in-galwan-valley-clash-us-intelligence-sources-306447">Also Read: 35 Chinese soldiers dead in Galwan Valley clash</a>

The Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi road, the feeder roads and the landing strip have all cemented India's dominance in the region.

Now, China's biggest fear is India's recovery of Aksai Chin which was captured by China in 1962. The Galwan area was among the biggest flashpoints during the 1962 war too and it has become a flashpoint again.

India has a strategic advantage in the region and its borders are secured. India is stepping up infrastructure, on its own side of the border, and on its own land. The idea is to help Indian forces reach remote locations quickly and that is why China is protesting because its border transgressions are being challenged.

 
&nbsp;

Galwan Valley is located at an altitude of almost 17,000 feet with extreme weather conditions and sub-zero temperatures. A valley that gets its name from the Galwan river - this 1960 claim line is the de facto of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the valley.

Galwan Valley is located at an altitude of almost 17,000 feet with extreme weather conditions and sub-zero temperatures. A valley that gets its name from the Galwan river - this 1960 claim line is the de facto of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the valley. The Galwan Valley falls under sub-sector north (SSN) and is one of the points that has direct access to Aksai Chin from India. Galwan Valley has become a flashpoint in India-China conflict again because of India's construction in the area. India is building a network of feeder roads which lead to the 224-km Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi road which is at least 10 kilometers inside the (Line of Actual Control) LAC. Daulat Beg Oldi is the northern-most corner of the Indian territory of Ladakh. Also Read: India-China border dispute: What happened in Nathu La in 1967 It also houses the world's highest landing strip - the Daulat Beg Oldi landing strip. The Indian Air Force has successfully landed the C17 Globemaster aircraft here. In case of a war or conflict, India can now ferry thousands of troops to the region within hours. China's fears intensified when India built a bridge, the Colonel Chewang Rinchen Setu, across the Shyok river. The idea was to facilitate Indian troop movement in the region. Even before China could digest this, India began constructing another bridge across the Galwan Nullah. This concrete bridge is a part of the feeder road project and it replaces an existing wooden structure, to allow heavy military movement. It was this bridge that triggered the latest standoff. A nervous China deployed its troops along the LAC to put pressure on India to stop road construction. Also Read: 35 Chinese soldiers dead in Galwan Valley clash The Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi road, the feeder roads and the landing strip have all cemented India's dominance in the region. Now, China's biggest fear is India's recovery of Aksai Chin which was captured by China in 1962. The Galwan area was among the biggest flashpoints during the 1962 war too and it has become a flashpoint again. India has a strategic advantage in the region and its borders are secured. India is stepping up infrastructure, on its own side of the border, and on its own land. The idea is to help Indian forces reach remote locations quickly and that is why China is protesting because its border transgressions are being challenged.

Why Galwan Valley has become the flashpoint in India-China conflict once again?

Monday's scuffle, the biggest confrontation between India and China since the 1967 clashes in Nathu La, has significantly escalated the already-volatile border standoff in the Ladakh region.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-inside-story-of-1967-nathu-la-conflict-306639/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The last military conflict between India and China took place at Nathu La in the Indian state of Sikkim in September 1967 when&nbsp;88 Indian soldiers died in action while Beijing lost over 300 men.

In 1967, India decided to fence its border with China and the plan was to put three&nbsp;layers of barbed wire, the work for which began on August 20, 1967.

Three days later, about 75 Chinese troops marched towards Nathu La in battle uniform and stopped at the border, shouting slogans for about an hour. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-took-pre-meditated-action-in-galwan-valley-that-led-to-violence-indian-foreign-minister-tells-beijing-306542">Also Read: China took pre-meditated action in Galwan valley that led to violence</a>

There was an uneasy calm over the next week and a half.

On September 5, China objected to concertina coils on the Indian fence. A supervising officer of the PLA picked up an argument with an Indian commanding officer and the work on the fence stopped for two days.

On September 7, 100 Chinese troops rushed to the border and engaged the Indian soldiers in a scuffle. They resorted to stone-pelting.

When the protesting Chinese army came back to the border on September 11, Lt. Colonel Rai Singh, the commanding officer of the local infantry battalion, went to talk to the Chinese troops.

Chinese soldiers opened fire, injuring Lt Colonel Rai Singh. Indian soldiers retaliated by attacking the Chinese post, but they suffered a heavy casualty.

Soon, Indian artillery fire turned the tide and over 300 PLA soldiers were killed. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-dispute-20-indian-soldiers-martyred-in-a-violent-face-off-with-chinese-troops-306357">Also Read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops</a>

On September 12, New Delhi extended a note of unconditional ceasefire across the Sikkim-Tibet border which was rejected by China.

However, China had learnt a lesson in exchange of heavy casualty. &nbsp;On September 15, it handed over bodies of Indian soldiers, along with their arms and ammunition.

The bloodshed at Nathu La too was a result of Chinese insecurity. 53 years later, one question remains unanswered - why does construction on Indian land infuriate china?&nbsp;

China must accept that India has the sovereign right to protect its territory 
&nbsp;

Monday's scuffle, the biggest confrontation between India and China since the 1967 clashes in Nathu La, has significantly escalated the already-volatile border standoff in the Ladakh region.

Monday's scuffle, the biggest confrontation between India and China since the 1967 clashes in Nathu La, has significantly escalated the already-volatile border standoff in the Ladakh region. The last military conflict between India and China took place at Nathu La in the Indian state of Sikkim in September 1967 when 88 Indian soldiers died in action while Beijing lost over 300 men. In 1967, India decided to fence its border with China and the plan was to put three layers of barbed wire, the work for which began on August 20, 1967. Three days later, about 75 Chinese troops marched towards Nathu La in battle uniform and stopped at the border, shouting slogans for about an hour. Also Read: China took pre-meditated action in Galwan valley that led to violence There was an uneasy calm over the next week and a half. On September 5, China objected to concertina coils on the Indian fence. A supervising officer of the PLA picked up an argument with an Indian commanding officer and the work on the fence stopped for two days. On September 7, 100 Chinese troops rushed to the border and engaged the Indian soldiers in a scuffle. They resorted to stone-pelting. When the protesting Chinese army came back to the border on September 11, Lt. Colonel Rai Singh, the commanding officer of the local infantry battalion, went to talk to the Chinese troops. Chinese soldiers opened fire, injuring Lt Colonel Rai Singh. Indian soldiers retaliated by attacking the Chinese post, but they suffered a heavy casualty. Soon, Indian artillery fire turned the tide and over 300 PLA soldiers were killed. Also Read: 20 Indian soldiers martyred in a violent face-off with Chinese troops On September 12, New Delhi extended a note of unconditional ceasefire across the Sikkim-Tibet border which was rejected by China. However, China had learnt a lesson in exchange of heavy casualty. On September 15, it handed over bodies of Indian soldiers, along with their arms and ammunition. The bloodshed at Nathu La too was a result of Chinese insecurity. 53 years later, one question remains unanswered - why does construction on Indian land infuriate china? China must accept that India has the sovereign right to protect its territory

India-China border dispute: What happened in Nathu La in 1967

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday briefed the media after securing a seat in the United Nations Security Council. Vikas Swarup, Secretary

India: MEA briefs on India's election as Non-Permanent member at UNSC

The foreign ministers of China and India have held telephone talks over the deadly border clash, agreeing to "cool down" the tensions.

There is not much clarity on outcome of talks between India and China

Hours after India got elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (June 18) tweeted that he is “deeply grateful for the overwhelming support” of the nations that voted in support of India.

PM Modi thanks global community for support at UNSC

Twenty Indian Army personnel were killed in a clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley on Monday night, the biggest military confrontation in over five decades that has significantly escalated the already volatile border standoff between the two countries.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-anti-china-sentiment-after-galwan-provocation-306629/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A large number of Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in an eyeball-to-eyeball situation in Galwan Valley and certain other areas of eastern Ladakh for the last five weeks, including in Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldie in eastern Ladakh.

To this end, other countries and international organisation have called for peace between the nations.

The United States said it was closely following the situation at the Line of Actual Control.&nbsp; 
"Both India and China have expressed a desire to de-escalate, and we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation," a State Department spokesperson said.

The European Union (EU) on Wednesday urged India and China to show restraint and engage in military de-escalation and continue holding a dialogue.

"In light of recent worrying developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, we encourage both sides to show restraint and to engage in military de-escalation, as well as to continue the dialogue," Virginie Battu-Henriksson, EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said in a statement.

"This is crucial for building trust and reaching a peaceful solution which is essential to preserving peace and stability in the region," the spokesperson added.

The British High Commission on Wednesday also encouraged dialogue between India and China.

"Clearly these are concerning reports. We encourage China and India to engage in dialogue on issues relating to the border - violence is in no-one's interest," said British High Commission spokesperson.

Australia has been critical of China.&nbsp;

Australian envoy to India -- Barry o'Farrell -- said, "Peace, stability and prosperity are not words that China understands," adding, "Beijing's aggression in South China Sea is not consistent with consensus building and dialogue."

The United Nations has also expressed concern. It has asked India and China to practise maximum restraint.

Indian intercepts have revealed that the Chinese side suffered 43 casualties including dead and seriously injured in the violent clash.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed a clear and unequivocal tough message to Chinese counterpart Wang Yi during a telephonic conversation on Tuesday that what happened in Galwan was a "pre-mediated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties."

In a strong message to China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said earlier today that India wants peace but is capable of giving a befitting reply, if instigated.

Twenty Indian Army personnel were killed in a clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley on Monday night, the biggest military confrontation in over five decades that has significantly escalated the already volatile border standoff between the two countries.

Twenty Indian Army personnel were killed in a clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley on Monday night, the biggest military confrontation in over five decades that has significantly escalated the already volatile border standoff between the two countries. A large number of Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in an eyeball-to-eyeball situation in Galwan Valley and certain other areas of eastern Ladakh for the last five weeks, including in Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldie in eastern Ladakh. To this end, other countries and international organisation have called for peace between the nations. The United States said it was closely following the situation at the Line of Actual Control. "Both India and China have expressed a desire to de-escalate, and we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation," a State Department spokesperson said. The European Union (EU) on Wednesday urged India and China to show restraint and engage in military de-escalation and continue holding a dialogue. "In light of recent worrying developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, we encourage both sides to show restraint and to engage in military de-escalation, as well as to continue the dialogue," Virginie Battu-Henriksson, EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said in a statement. "This is crucial for building trust and reaching a peaceful solution which is essential to preserving peace and stability in the region," the spokesperson added. The British High Commission on Wednesday also encouraged dialogue between India and China. "Clearly these are concerning reports. We encourage China and India to engage in dialogue on issues relating to the border - violence is in no-one's interest," said British High Commission spokesperson. Australia has been critical of China. Australian envoy to India -- Barry o'Farrell -- said, "Peace, stability and prosperity are not words that China understands," adding, "Beijing's aggression in South China Sea is not consistent with consensus building and dialogue." The United Nations has also expressed concern. It has asked India and China to practise maximum restraint. Indian intercepts have revealed that the Chinese side suffered 43 casualties including dead and seriously injured in the violent clash. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed a clear and unequivocal tough message to Chinese counterpart Wang Yi during a telephonic conversation on Tuesday that what happened in Galwan was a "pre-mediated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties." In a strong message to China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said earlier today that India wants peace but is capable of giving a befitting reply, if instigated.

India-China border dispute: The entire world is taking notice

The Indian army says at least 20 of its soldiers were killed after hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops at a disputed border site on Monday night, the deadliest clash in decades.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-galwan-provocation-exposing-chinas-5-lies-306637/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China has not given any details of casualties.

But it has excelled in lying.&nbsp;

For six weeks, it lied about de-escalating at the Ladakh border. It lied about not wanting a confrontation.&nbsp;

It lied about respecting the consensus reached during talks.

And now, it is twisting the facts about what transpired at the Galwan Valley.&nbsp;

Here's a list of five lies told by China -- and fully countered by WION. 
&nbsp; 
1) India crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC).&nbsp;

FACT: There were military level talks on June 6. Both sides reached a consensus.

The PLA violated it. &nbsp;

China built a temporary structure on the Indian side of the border -- somewhere along patrolling point no. 14.

Reports indicate this structure was a tent. And Indian troops destroyed it.

They did not cross the LAC. And they did not violate what was agreed upon.

2) India was provocative. India purposely launched provocative attacks against Chinese personnel and PLA troops only resorted to 'physical self defence measures'.

FACT: China said that after the Indian side destroyed the illegal chinese structure, PLA troops returned in big numbers. They were prepared for a face-off. They crossed the Galwan river into the Indian side of the border. This incursion was followed by a physical skirmish... But so much for self-defence measures?

This cannot be possible.

3) India is actively seeking a face-off, and is building infrastructure to escalate tensions. India's actions violate China's territorial integrity.

FACT: China's reaction shows its nervousness. It has built roads for decades.&nbsp;

Now India is building infrastructure on its side of the border. And China can't take it.&nbsp;

It has been objecting to the construction of roads in the Galwan Valley. It is suspicious that India is making attempts to recapture the Aksai Chin region.

But India is a sovereign country. It can build whatever it wants on its land. And it owes no explanation to China.&nbsp;

4) India violated the June 6 consensus.

China is saying that India 'seriously infringed' upon the consensus made in the military level talks on June 6.

FACT: It was China that never respected this consensus. It did not de-escalate -- it still hasn't.

For weeks, the Chinese state media has been releasing videos that show how Beijing is reinforcing its defences -- videos that look like they are straight out of a war film....&nbsp;

Thousands of troops were 'swiftly relocated' from the Hubei province to the LAC earlier this month.

The PLA even received China's most powerful Howitzers on June 11.

5) China says India is no longer satisfied with mere stand-offs, that India's actions are aimed at capturing Chinese territory, and that India wants to divert domestic pressure due to the rising cases of the coronavirus.

China is also suggesting that India wants to please the United States.

FACT: From the South China Sea to the Ladakh border to the Indian Ocean, it is China that wants to capture territories it doesn't control.&nbsp;

It is China that is not satisfied with its aggressive expansionism.

It is China that wants to divert domestic pressure in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

It is China that wants to divert attention from how it faciliated this pandemic.

It is China that is a subject of global outrage.

And the US wants China investigated over the novel coronavirus aka the Wuhan virus. If any party needs to please anyone right now, it is the Chinese.

The Indian army says at least 20 of its soldiers were killed after hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops at a disputed border site on Monday night, the deadliest clash in decades.

The Indian army says at least 20 of its soldiers were killed after hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops at a disputed border site on Monday night, the deadliest clash in decades. China has not given any details of casualties. But it has excelled in lying. For six weeks, it lied about de-escalating at the Ladakh border. It lied about not wanting a confrontation. It lied about respecting the consensus reached during talks. And now, it is twisting the facts about what transpired at the Galwan Valley. Here's a list of five lies told by China -- and fully countered by WION. 1) India crossed the Line of Actual Control (LAC). FACT: There were military level talks on June 6. Both sides reached a consensus. The PLA violated it. China built a temporary structure on the Indian side of the border -- somewhere along patrolling point no. 14. Reports indicate this structure was a tent. And Indian troops destroyed it. They did not cross the LAC. And they did not violate what was agreed upon. 2) India was provocative. India purposely launched provocative attacks against Chinese personnel and PLA troops only resorted to 'physical self defence measures'. FACT: China said that after the Indian side destroyed the illegal chinese structure, PLA troops returned in big numbers. They were prepared for a face-off. They crossed the Galwan river into the Indian side of the border. This incursion was followed by a physical skirmish... But so much for self-defence measures? This cannot be possible. 3) India is actively seeking a face-off, and is building infrastructure to escalate tensions. India's actions violate China's territorial integrity. FACT: China's reaction shows its nervousness. It has built roads for decades. Now India is building infrastructure on its side of the border. And China can't take it. It has been objecting to the construction of roads in the Galwan Valley. It is suspicious that India is making attempts to recapture the Aksai Chin region. But India is a sovereign country. It can build whatever it wants on its land. And it owes no explanation to China. 4) India violated the June 6 consensus. China is saying that India 'seriously infringed' upon the consensus made in the military level talks on June 6. FACT: It was China that never respected this consensus. It did not de-escalate -- it still hasn't. For weeks, the Chinese state media has been releasing videos that show how Beijing is reinforcing its defences -- videos that look like they are straight out of a war film.... Thousands of troops were 'swiftly relocated' from the Hubei province to the LAC earlier this month. The PLA even received China's most powerful Howitzers on June 11. 5) China says India is no longer satisfied with mere stand-offs, that India's actions are aimed at capturing Chinese territory, and that India wants to divert domestic pressure due to the rising cases of the coronavirus. China is also suggesting that India wants to please the United States. FACT: From the South China Sea to the Ladakh border to the Indian Ocean, it is China that wants to capture territories it doesn't control. It is China that is not satisfied with its aggressive expansionism. It is China that wants to divert domestic pressure in Hong Kong and Taiwan. It is China that wants to divert attention from how it faciliated this pandemic. It is China that is a subject of global outrage. And the US wants China investigated over the novel coronavirus aka the Wuhan virus. If any party needs to please anyone right now, it is the Chinese.

Five lies by China over border dispute with India busted and countered

The Supreme Court of India today stays Jagannath yatra to avoid further spreading of Coronavirus amongst masses. The decision is taken under public interest. Moreover CJI SA Bobde says that 'If we allow Puri Yatra this year then lord jagannath will never forgive us'

India: Top Court halts Jagannath yatra to avoid spreading of COVID-19

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday briefed the media ahead of the launch of the Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan by the Prime Minister.

Finance Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan on June 20. This scheme will help the migrant labourers, who have returned to their states, to find livelihood opportunities amid this coronavirus pandemic.

The FM said that state and central governments have worked together to identify districts which saw highest reverse migration of workers during the Covid-19 lockdown.

She said that "We have found that migrant workers returned in large numbers to 116 districts, spread over six states - Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Rajasthan".

As per the Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan, all the migrant workers who have returned to their villages will be provided a job as part of these pooled in schemes. The objective of these schemes will be achieved using the workers who are present in those districts, she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday briefed the media ahead of the launch of the Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan by the Prime Minister. Finance Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan on June 20.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday briefed the media ahead of the launch of the Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan by the Prime Minister. Finance Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan on June 20. This scheme will help the migrant labourers, who have returned to their states, to find livelihood opportunities amid this coronavirus pandemic. The FM said that state and central governments have worked together to identify districts which saw highest reverse migration of workers during the Covid-19 lockdown. She said that "We have found that migrant workers returned in large numbers to 116 districts, spread over six states - Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Rajasthan". As per the Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan, all the migrant workers who have returned to their villages will be provided a job as part of these pooled in schemes. The objective of these schemes will be achieved using the workers who are present in those districts, she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman shares details of Rs 50,000-crore public work scheme for migrants

India has yet again witnessed the highest single-day jump in the number of COVID-19 infections with a record of 12,881 cases. Watch report.

India's COVID-19 trajectory | India reported 334 deaths in last 24-hours

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

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

The Indian Railways has decided to terminate the contract of a Chinese company due to "poor progress" on the signalling and telecommunication work on the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor's 417-km section between Kanpur and Mughalsarai.

The Railways had given the contract worth Rs 471 crore to Beijing National Railway Research and Design Institute of Signal and Communication Group in 2016. They were supposed to complete the work by 2019, but only 20 per cent of the work has been completed so far, the Railways said.

The move comes after 20 Indian Army personnel including a colonel were killed in a fierce clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday night, the biggest military confrontation in over five decades that has significantly escalated the already volatile border standoff in the region.

Officials, however, said it was poor performance and inability to deliver the project on time that led to the decision by the implementing agency to terminate the contract.

The Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor or Eastern DFC is a freight specific railway under construction from northern to eastern part of India and is scheduled to be completed by 2022.

The work entrusted with the Chinese engineering major includes design, construction, supply, testing and commissioning of signalling, telecommunication and related works for the 417-km section.

Apart from performance issues, the Chinese company had also shown reluctance in furnishing technical documents, as per the contract agreement, such as logic design of electronic interlocking.

It also did not have engineers or authorised personnel at the project site which was a serious concern.

The company also failed to have tie-ups with local agencies which harmed the physical progress of the work, officials pointed out.

The Indian Railways has decided to terminate the contract of a Chinese company due to "poor progress" on the signalling and telecommunication work on the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor's 417-km section between Kanpur and Mughalsarai.

The Indian Railways has decided to terminate the contract of a Chinese company due to "poor progress" on the signalling and telecommunication work on the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor's 417-km section between Kanpur and Mughalsarai. The Railways had given the contract worth Rs 471 crore to Beijing National Railway Research and Design Institute of Signal and Communication Group in 2016. They were supposed to complete the work by 2019, but only 20 per cent of the work has been completed so far, the Railways said. The move comes after 20 Indian Army personnel including a colonel were killed in a fierce clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday night, the biggest military confrontation in over five decades that has significantly escalated the already volatile border standoff in the region. Officials, however, said it was poor performance and inability to deliver the project on time that led to the decision by the implementing agency to terminate the contract. The Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor or Eastern DFC is a freight specific railway under construction from northern to eastern part of India and is scheduled to be completed by 2022. The work entrusted with the Chinese engineering major includes design, construction, supply, testing and commissioning of signalling, telecommunication and related works for the 417-km section. Apart from performance issues, the Chinese company had also shown reluctance in furnishing technical documents, as per the contract agreement, such as logic design of electronic interlocking. It also did not have engineers or authorised personnel at the project site which was a serious concern. The company also failed to have tie-ups with local agencies which harmed the physical progress of the work, officials pointed out.

Indian Railways to terminate Chinese company's contract due to 'poor progress'

India's COVID-19 trajectory: India reported 334 deaths in last 24-hours

"Lord Jagannath won't forgive us if we allow" were the words of the Supreme Court on Thursday as it stayed this year's historic Puri Rath Yatra which is held in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

"Lord Jagannath won't forgive us if we allow this year's Rath Yatra to go, " Chief Justice SA Bobde said, adding that a large gathering could not be allowed during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-gears-up-for-unlock-10-devotees-flock-to-religious-places-304096">COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places</a>

The three-judge bench, including Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and AS Bopanna asked&nbsp;Odisha's government to not permit the yatra or pilgrimage procession anywhere in the state to avoid the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malls-hotels-religious-places-set-to-reopen-on-monday-amid-sharp-uptick-in-coronavirus-cases-304079">Malls, hotels, religious places set to reopen on Monday amid sharp uptick in coronavirus cases</a>

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who was appearing for an NGO, argued that if Rath Yatra would take place, a huge gathering would follow, which will add to the risk of coronavirus infections.

A counsel appearing for an intervenor said the state government has issued a notification that there will be no public gathering till June 30.

The PIL was filed by an Odisha-based NGO seeking cancellation or postponement of this year's Rath Yatra, which carries on for 10 to 12 days and is attended by millions of worshippers from across the world.

"Lord Jagannath won't forgive us if we allow" were the words of the Supreme Court on Thursday as it stayed this year's historic Puri Rath Yatra which is held in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

"Lord Jagannath won't forgive us if we allow" were the words of the Supreme Court on Thursday as it stayed this year's historic Puri Rath Yatra which is held in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. "Lord Jagannath won't forgive us if we allow this year's Rath Yatra to go, " Chief Justice SA Bobde said, adding that a large gathering could not be allowed during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places The three-judge bench, including Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and AS Bopanna asked Odisha's government to not permit the yatra or pilgrimage procession anywhere in the state to avoid the spread of COVID-19. Also read | Malls, hotels, religious places set to reopen on Monday amid sharp uptick in coronavirus cases Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who was appearing for an NGO, argued that if Rath Yatra would take place, a huge gathering would follow, which will add to the risk of coronavirus infections. A counsel appearing for an intervenor said the state government has issued a notification that there will be no public gathering till June 30. The PIL was filed by an Odisha-based NGO seeking cancellation or postponement of this year's Rath Yatra, which carries on for 10 to 12 days and is attended by millions of worshippers from across the world.

'Lord Jagannath won't forgive us,' says Supreme Court as it stays this year's Rath Yatra

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world.

"Hearty congratulations to India's successful election to the @UN Security Council.&nbsp;The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world," US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hearty congratulations to India’s successful election to the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6LKVYE1hJ">pic.twitter.com/f6LKVYE1hJ</a>
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1273495929828577280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

His remarks came hours after India's election as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, beginning January 1, 2021.

In the election where envoys from the 192 member-states voted wearing masks and in adherence to the strict social-distancing norms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, India, the endorsed candidate from the Asia-Pacific States, won 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the election for the five non-permanent seats of the Security Council, the world organisation's most powerful organ.

In 2021, India, Norway, Ireland and Mexico will sit in the most powerful UN organ along with the five permanent members -- China, France, Russia, the UK and the US -- as well as non-permanent members Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam.

<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>

The two-year terms of Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa are ending this year.

This is the eighth time India will sit at the UN high-table.

Previously, India was elected for 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012, when Hardeep Singh Puri, now India's Minister for Housing &amp; Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation, was India's Permanent Representative to the UN.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world.

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. "Hearty congratulations to India's successful election to the @UN Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world," US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted. Hearty congratulations to India’s successful election to the @UN Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. #USIndia pic.twitter.com/f6LKVYE1hJ — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) June 18, 2020 × His remarks came hours after India's election as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, beginning January 1, 2021. In the election where envoys from the 192 member-states voted wearing masks and in adherence to the strict social-distancing norms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, India, the endorsed candidate from the Asia-Pacific States, won 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the election for the five non-permanent seats of the Security Council, the world organisation's most powerful organ. In 2021, India, Norway, Ireland and Mexico will sit in the most powerful UN organ along with the five permanent members -- China, France, Russia, the UK and the US -- as well as non-permanent members Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam. Also read | India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council The two-year terms of Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa are ending this year. This is the eighth time India will sit at the UN high-table. Previously, India was elected for 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012, when Hardeep Singh Puri, now India's Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation, was India's Permanent Representative to the UN.

Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm.

She said the Centre should give a strong message to China.

<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>

"Twenty of our soldiers have been martyred. In such a situation, the central government should give a strong message, but the government has adopted a weak strategy of kneeling down by handing over the contract of Delhi-Meerut semi high-speed rail corridor to a Chinese company. All Indian companies are also competent to build this corridor," she said in a tweet in Hindi.

She also shared a media report claiming that a Chinese company has got the Rs 1126 crore contract for Delhi-Meerut rapid rail, amid the stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops.

Twenty Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent clash between the troops of India and China at Galwan Valley in Ladakh on Monday night.&nbsp;

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday accused the government of adopting a weak strategy and kneeling down before China by "handing over" a rail contract to a Chinese firm. She said the Centre should give a strong message to China. Also watch| India responds to claim over Galwan valley: China making 'inevitable' claims "Twenty of our soldiers have been martyred. In such a situation, the central government should give a strong message, but the government has adopted a weak strategy of kneeling down by handing over the contract of Delhi-Meerut semi high-speed rail corridor to a Chinese company. All Indian companies are also competent to build this corridor," she said in a tweet in Hindi. She also shared a media report claiming that a Chinese company has got the Rs 1126 crore contract for Delhi-Meerut rapid rail, amid the stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops. Twenty Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent clash between the troops of India and China at Galwan Valley in Ladakh on Monday night.

Govt adopting weak strategy by handing over rail contract to Chinese firm: Priyanka Gandhi

The Indian government has prohibited state owned telecommunication company BSNL from sourcing upgradation gear from Chinese companies including Huawei, marking India's first economic sanction on China after the Glawan valley skirmish.

The telecom department will soon also cancel a 4G telecom equipment tender floated by state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL) and rework it to keep out Chinese vendors, the official said.

Once signed off, the order will deal a body blow to the Indian operations of Huawei and ZTE who will thus be barred from the country’s commercial 5G deployments.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-claims-over-galwan-valley-exaggerated-and-untenable-india-306689" hreflang="en">China's claims over Galwan Valley 'exaggerated and untenable': India</a> 
 
Currently, industry estimates peg the annual market for Indian telecom equipment to be around Rs12,000 crore, of which Chinese players account for roughly a fourth. The rest of the market comprises mainly of Sweden’s Ericsson, Finland’s Nokia and Korea’s Samsung. Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea work with both Huawei and ZTE,&nbsp;besides the European vendors, while Reliance Jio works with Samsung.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-lies-by-china-over-border-dispute-with-india-busted-and-countered-306621" hreflang="en">Five lies by China over border dispute with India busted and countered</a>

The government's decision came amid a huge tension at Ladakh, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash with Chinese troops on Monday evening. This was the first time in nearly five decades that fatalities were reported at the Line of Actual Control, the de facto border with China.

Earlier, the Telecom Ministry had directed all of the entities under its purview to restrict their purchases to 'Made in India' products.

As per the latest inputs, the Telecom Ministry has asked BSNL, MTNL and other subsidiaries to avoid Chinese equipment in upgradation. In addition, the Ministry has also directed all concerned departments to make the purchase of goods manufactured in India as their topmost priority as part of the Centre's push for "Aatmanirbhar Bharat".

Upgradation of 4G facilities is part of the BSNL's revival package and earlier this year, there was a tug of war between&nbsp; BSNL employees and the government over the latter's insistence on the use of homegrown firms to boost its Make in India policy. The BSNL employees had pointed out that all its competitors -- Bharati Airtel, Vodafone and Reliance Jio -- were using equipment from multinationals.

The Indian government has prohibited state owned telecommunication company BSNL from sourcing upgradation gear from Chinese companies including Huawei, marking India's first economic sanction on China after the Glawan valley skirmish.

The Indian government has prohibited state owned telecommunication company BSNL from sourcing upgradation gear from Chinese companies including Huawei, marking India's first economic sanction on China after the Glawan valley skirmish. The telecom department will soon also cancel a 4G telecom equipment tender floated by state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL) and rework it to keep out Chinese vendors, the official said. Once signed off, the order will deal a body blow to the Indian operations of Huawei and ZTE who will thus be barred from the country’s commercial 5G deployments. Also read: China's claims over Galwan Valley 'exaggerated and untenable': India Currently, industry estimates peg the annual market for Indian telecom equipment to be around Rs12,000 crore, of which Chinese players account for roughly a fourth. The rest of the market comprises mainly of Sweden’s Ericsson, Finland’s Nokia and Korea’s Samsung. Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea work with both Huawei and ZTE, besides the European vendors, while Reliance Jio works with Samsung. Also read:Five lies by China over border dispute with India busted and countered The government's decision came amid a huge tension at Ladakh, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash with Chinese troops on Monday evening. This was the first time in nearly five decades that fatalities were reported at the Line of Actual Control, the de facto border with China. Earlier, the Telecom Ministry had directed all of the entities under its purview to restrict their purchases to 'Made in India' products. As per the latest inputs, the Telecom Ministry has asked BSNL, MTNL and other subsidiaries to avoid Chinese equipment in upgradation. In addition, the Ministry has also directed all concerned departments to make the purchase of goods manufactured in India as their topmost priority as part of the Centre's push for "Aatmanirbhar Bharat". Upgradation of 4G facilities is part of the BSNL's revival package and earlier this year, there was a tug of war between BSNL employees and the government over the latter's insistence on the use of homegrown firms to boost its Make in India policy. The BSNL employees had pointed out that all its competitors -- Bharati Airtel, Vodafone and Reliance Jio -- were using equipment from multinationals.

Government to prohibit BSNL from sourcing gear from Huawei for upgradation

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term.

This is for the 8th time that India has been elected to UNSC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/India%20vows%20to%20'overcome%20fault%20lines'%20as%20it%20takes%20charge%20at%20UNSC">Also read: India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC</a>

India hopes to utilize its eighth term to additionally construct its case for a permanent seat in United Nations Security Council, something that it has been pushing throughout recent years.

India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012.

The UNSC consists of 15 members: 10 non-permanent and five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the UK and US.

The 10 non-permanent seats are distributed on a regional basis as follows: five for African and Asian states; one for the Eastern European States; two for the Latin American and Caribbean States; and two for Western European and other States.

(With inputs from agencies)

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term.

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term. This is for the 8th time that India has been elected to UNSC. Also read: India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC India hopes to utilize its eighth term to additionally construct its case for a permanent seat in United Nations Security Council, something that it has been pushing throughout recent years. India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012. The UNSC consists of 15 members: 10 non-permanent and five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the UK and US. The 10 non-permanent seats are distributed on a regional basis as follows: five for African and Asian states; one for the Eastern European States; two for the Latin American and Caribbean States; and two for Western European and other States. (With inputs from agencies)

India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council

India is the single endorsed candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat in the non-permanent member category. India is likely to be elected for the eighth time.

WION Exclusive: TS Tirumurti, India's permanent envoy to UN speaks to WION

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid rich tributes to soldiers martyred in the recent skirmish with the Chinese army and said the nation will never ''forget their bravery and sacrifice.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid rich tributes to soldiers martyred in the recent skirmish with the Chinese army and said the nation will never ''forget their bravery and sacrifice. ''The Nation will never forget their bravery and sacrifice. My heart goes out to the families of the fallen soldiers. The nation stand shoulder to shoulder with them in this difficult hour. We are proud of the bravery and courage of India’s breavehearts,'' tweeted the Defence Minister. The loss of soldiers in Galwan is deeply disturbing and painful, he said in another tweet. The loss of soldiers in Galwan is deeply disturbing and painful. Our soldiers displayed exemplary courage and valour in the line of duty and sacrificed their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2020 × 20 soldiers lost their lives following a face-off with the Chinese army along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) yesterday. ''Our soldiers displayed exemplary courage and valour in the line of duty and sacrificed their lives in the highest traditions of the Indian Army,'' he added.

Nation will never forget their bravery and sacrifice: Rajnath Singh on martyred Indian soldiers

India reported 2,003 coronavirus related deaths in the last 24 hours with the total death toll rising to 11,903, India's health ministry said. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-reports-highest-single-day-coronavirus-fatalities-death-toll-at-4128-306172">Also Read:&nbsp;Maharashtra reports highest single-day coronavirus fatalities</a>

The country reported 10,974 new coronavirus cases&nbsp;with the total number of COVID-19 cases rising to 3,54,065.

The ministry said that there were 1,55,227 active cases with 1,86,935 patients having being discharged from the hospital.

India's national capital reported 1,859 new coronavirus and 93 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of COVID-19 cases rising to 44,688. The death toll due to the virus in Delhi stands at 1,837.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Telangana recorded 213 patients testing positive for the virus taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 5,406.

Madhya Pradesh state health department reported 134 new coronavirus cases and 11 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 11,069. The death toll in the state due to the virus stands at 476.

In Assam, &nbsp;201 fresh coronavirus cases taking the state's COVID-19 cases to 4,510.

India reported 2,003 coronavirus related deaths in the last 24 hours with the total death toll rising to 11,903, India's health ministry said. Also Read: Maharashtra reports highest single-day coronavirus fatalities The country reported 10,974 new coronavirus cases with the total number of COVID-19 cases rising to 3,54,065.

India reported 2,003 coronavirus related deaths in the last 24 hours with the total death toll rising to 11,903, India's health ministry said. Also Read: Maharashtra reports highest single-day coronavirus fatalities The country reported 10,974 new coronavirus cases with the total number of COVID-19 cases rising to 3,54,065. The ministry said that there were 1,55,227 active cases with 1,86,935 patients having being discharged from the hospital. India's national capital reported 1,859 new coronavirus and 93 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of COVID-19 cases rising to 44,688. The death toll due to the virus in Delhi stands at 1,837. Meanwhile, Telangana recorded 213 patients testing positive for the virus taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 5,406. Madhya Pradesh state health department reported 134 new coronavirus cases and 11 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 11,069. The death toll in the state due to the virus stands at 476. In Assam, 201 fresh coronavirus cases taking the state's COVID-19 cases to 4,510.

COVID-19: India reports over 2,000 deaths in last 24 hours; toll rises to 11,903

The Indian Army on June 16 has confirmed that the number of Indian soldiers martyred in the “violent face-off” with Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley on June 15 night is now 20. Many Indian soldiers are said to be in the custody of China. Watch report.

Face-off at India-China border: 20 Indian soldiers martyred, Some in China's custody

US intelligence report has said that the Chinese Army is estimated to have suffered 35 casualties, including those seriously injured and killed, during the clash with Indian troops at Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh on Monday night.

The Commanding Officer of the Chinese battalion involved in the standoff is among those killed.

But China has not publicly announced the number of casualties on its side, although the Chinese media has admitted to casualties. Chinese troops, on the other hand, killed 20 Indian soldiers.

Now China is talking peace they don't want any more flare-ups at the border. But China's words have to be followed by action. Chinese haven’t retreated, Chinese state media confirms that.

The state media is still releasing videos heavily—loaded with theatrics. Videos — of large scale military—exercises — apparently just 745 miles away from the site of the faceoff.

CCTV footage shows artillery being fired — alongside troop movements — and live-fire exercises.

On the ground — China appears to be in no mood for a peaceful solution. But officially — it continues to express faith in dialogue and diplomacy. The Chinese foreign ministry says it does not want to see any more border clashes with India.

The situation is still 'generally stable and controllable' the same words China has said for months.

India is not falling for China's duplicity this time. Troops along the line of actual control have been put on high alert. 
Besides this — an alert has been sounded along the Line of Control (LoC) as well.

Because China and Pakistan seem to be on the same page in flaring up tensions at the border. Every time China provokes along the LAC, Pakistan keeps the other side volatile.

There's an attempt to engage India at multiple locations. The Indian army has sensed this pattern of strategic encirclement. Back in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting on June 19.

The prime minister is expected to brief the opposition on the situation at the border. Reports say— the govt will invite suggestions to build an all-party consensus on dealing with China.

In the meantime — talks with Beijing are still on. The hotline is still active and India is not mincing any words.

The external affairs minister of India — Dr S Jaishankar spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi earlier this evening.

Jaishanker had told the Chinese counterpart that the Chinese side “took premeditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties”, the government said.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to China, said, “India wants peace but when provoked, it is capable of giving a fitting reply, be it any situation”.

US intelligence report has said that the Chinese Army is estimated to have suffered 35 casualties, including those seriously injured and killed, during the clash with Indian troops at Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh on Monday night.

US intelligence report has said that the Chinese Army is estimated to have suffered 35 casualties, including those seriously injured and killed, during the clash with Indian troops at Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh on Monday night. The Commanding Officer of the Chinese battalion involved in the standoff is among those killed. But China has not publicly announced the number of casualties on its side, although the Chinese media has admitted to casualties. Chinese troops, on the other hand, killed 20 Indian soldiers. Now China is talking peace they don't want any more flare-ups at the border. But China's words have to be followed by action. Chinese haven’t retreated, Chinese state media confirms that. The state media is still releasing videos heavily—loaded with theatrics. Videos — of large scale military—exercises — apparently just 745 miles away from the site of the faceoff. CCTV footage shows artillery being fired — alongside troop movements — and live-fire exercises. On the ground — China appears to be in no mood for a peaceful solution. But officially — it continues to express faith in dialogue and diplomacy. The Chinese foreign ministry says it does not want to see any more border clashes with India. The situation is still 'generally stable and controllable' the same words China has said for months. India is not falling for China's duplicity this time. Troops along the line of actual control have been put on high alert. Besides this — an alert has been sounded along the Line of Control (LoC) as well. Because China and Pakistan seem to be on the same page in flaring up tensions at the border. Every time China provokes along the LAC, Pakistan keeps the other side volatile. There's an attempt to engage India at multiple locations. The Indian army has sensed this pattern of strategic encirclement. Back in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an all-party meeting on June 19. The prime minister is expected to brief the opposition on the situation at the border. Reports say— the govt will invite suggestions to build an all-party consensus on dealing with China. In the meantime — talks with Beijing are still on. The hotline is still active and India is not mincing any words. The external affairs minister of India — Dr S Jaishankar spoke to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi earlier this evening. Jaishanker had told the Chinese counterpart that the Chinese side “took premeditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties”, the government said. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to China, said, “India wants peace but when provoked, it is capable of giving a fitting reply, be it any situation”.

China spoke of peaceful resolution but backing off from commitment not new for Beijing

India's Permanent Representative to&nbsp;the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year.&nbsp;Speaking exclusively&nbsp;to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal from&nbsp;New York City,&nbsp;India's Permanent Representative of the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, New Delhi will help "bridge the global fault lines" as a non-permanent&nbsp;member of UNSC.&nbsp;India is standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat of UNSC and will be an elected member at the high table for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.As the founding member of the world body, India has already served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. The elections for the UNSC's 5 non-permanent seats took place on Wednesday in New York.

&nbsp;

WION: India is assured of a seat at the UNSC, what will be the key focus?

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;We have received tremendous&nbsp;support cutting across&nbsp;countries and regions for our candidature. However, we have still used the run-up to the elections in a very focused and purposeful manner by reaching out to all the member states of the united nations and sensitizing them on our priorities. Minister of external affairs Dr S Jaishankar launched set of priorities in our stint at the security&nbsp;council. We have been able to engage the member states and there has been a greater appreciation of what India plans to bring to the United Nations.&nbsp; The 5 priorities&nbsp;which we have set for ourself&nbsp;in the rubric of N.O.R.M.S&nbsp;New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System and priorities include new opportunities for progress, effective response to international terrorism, reformed multilateral system, comprehensive approach to international peace and security and technology with a human touch. These are the 5 priorities and this will be the focus for us in the security council.

WION: How will India make sure the global fault lines are reduced? We have seen increased tensions in the world.

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;Interestingly, India has always worked to bridge the faultlines. In fact, right since our participation at the united nations as a founding member, we have taken up several difficult issues at the UN and we have been able to bring them as part of the international discourse and resolve them. I agree that the world has probably changed over the years and particularly it is not the same as it was in 2011 when we were last in the United Nations security&nbsp;council. Multilateralism has been weakened and faultlines might have widened but I am confident with our very strong reform agenda, eg reformed multilateralism&nbsp;agenda which we have and our tradition and our ability to work with a diverse set of partners&nbsp;I am confident we can actually make a difference&nbsp;in bridging these faultlines.&nbsp;

WION: How hopeful is&nbsp;New Delhi of whether&nbsp;UNSC, which represents a 70 year old model, is relevant in this century amidst emergence of countries like India. We saw complete inaction to even issue even a statement on COVID-19 by UNSC?

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;UN Security council definitely needs to undergo reforms, no question about that. Under the UN Charter, the UN security council still has the primary responsibility for international peace and cooperation. India's priority is reform of the united nations security council and we do want to reform it to make it more representative, make it more inclusive and make sure it addresses the current realities and we will work towards that. But our presence at the UNSC right now is also coming at a crucial&nbsp;juncture because&nbsp;India will have an opportunity in COVID and post COVID phase to contribute to transforming the post COVID phase and be a participant in the global transformation which will inevitably take place. But we should also be conscious of the fact that not every issue is an issue for peace and security.&nbsp;

WION: How does UN plan to celebrate Yoga Day this year?

TS Tirumurti: Prime Minister has provided the leadership and it will continue to be an&nbsp;India lead initiative this year also, I can assure you that. However, 2020 is a very unique year with social distancing in place, it will be difficult to do yoga day within the premises of the UN or even on the lawn of the UN. However, what we plan to do in the mission, is that we plan to do it in a virtual mode this year because the international&nbsp;yoga day attracts probably the largest gathering of the UN and we want to continue the tradition. This time we are doing on the 19th of January at around 3 pm and the event will be telecasted live on UN Web TV&nbsp; and it will be on all our social platforms, twitter, youtube and other and this year we have gifted to all the permanent missions very inciteful&nbsp;book on yoga. So I am confident that international yoga day, will be celebrated with a great deal of gusto, and will be well received by the member states and yoga practitioners.

India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year.

India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal from New York City, India's Permanent Representative of the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, New Delhi will help "bridge the global fault lines" as a non-permanent member of UNSC. India is standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat of UNSC and will be an elected member at the high table for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.As the founding member of the world body, India has already served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. The elections for the UNSC's 5 non-permanent seats took place on Wednesday in New York. WION: India is assured of a seat at the UNSC, what will be the key focus? TS Tirumurti: We have received tremendous support cutting across countries and regions for our candidature. However, we have still used the run-up to the elections in a very focused and purposeful manner by reaching out to all the member states of the united nations and sensitizing them on our priorities. Minister of external affairs Dr S Jaishankar launched set of priorities in our stint at the security council. We have been able to engage the member states and there has been a greater appreciation of what India plans to bring to the United Nations. The 5 priorities which we have set for ourself in the rubric of N.O.R.M.S New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System and priorities include new opportunities for progress, effective response to international terrorism, reformed multilateral system, comprehensive approach to international peace and security and technology with a human touch. These are the 5 priorities and this will be the focus for us in the security council. WION: How will India make sure the global fault lines are reduced? We have seen increased tensions in the world. TS Tirumurti: Interestingly, India has always worked to bridge the faultlines. In fact, right since our participation at the united nations as a founding member, we have taken up several difficult issues at the UN and we have been able to bring them as part of the international discourse and resolve them. I agree that the world has probably changed over the years and particularly it is not the same as it was in 2011 when we were last in the United Nations security council. Multilateralism has been weakened and faultlines might have widened but I am confident with our very strong reform agenda, eg reformed multilateralism agenda which we have and our tradition and our ability to work with a diverse set of partners I am confident we can actually make a difference in bridging these faultlines. WION: How hopeful is New Delhi of whether UNSC, which represents a 70 year old model, is relevant in this century amidst emergence of countries like India. We saw complete inaction to even issue even a statement on COVID-19 by UNSC? TS Tirumurti: UN Security council definitely needs to undergo reforms, no question about that. Under the UN Charter, the UN security council still has the primary responsibility for international peace and cooperation. India's priority is reform of the united nations security council and we do want to reform it to make it more representative, make it more inclusive and make sure it addresses the current realities and we will work towards that. But our presence at the UNSC right now is also coming at a crucial juncture because India will have an opportunity in COVID and post COVID phase to contribute to transforming the post COVID phase and be a participant in the global transformation which will inevitably take place. But we should also be conscious of the fact that not every issue is an issue for peace and security. WION: How does UN plan to celebrate Yoga Day this year? TS Tirumurti: Prime Minister has provided the leadership and it will continue to be an India lead initiative this year also, I can assure you that. However, 2020 is a very unique year with social distancing in place, it will be difficult to do yoga day within the premises of the UN or even on the lawn of the UN. However, what we plan to do in the mission, is that we plan to do it in a virtual mode this year because the international yoga day attracts probably the largest gathering of the UN and we want to continue the tradition. This time we are doing on the 19th of January at around 3 pm and the event will be telecasted live on UN Web TV and it will be on all our social platforms, twitter, youtube and other and this year we have gifted to all the permanent missions very inciteful book on yoga. So I am confident that international yoga day, will be celebrated with a great deal of gusto, and will be well received by the member states and yoga practitioners.

Will be part of post-COVID global transformation, says India's envoy to UN as New Delhi sits at UNSC

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged India and China to exercise maximum restraint. Associate Spokesperson of United Nations secretary-general said on Tuesday that the world body was concerned about reports of violence and deaths at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China and urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged India and China to exercise maximum restraint. Associate Spokesperson of United Nations secretary-general said on Tuesday that the world body was concerned about reports of violence and deaths at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China and urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint. ''We take positive note of reports that two countries have engaged to deescalate the situation,'' he added. During the violent faceoff, both the sides suffered casualties after the Chinese side departed from the consensus to respect the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Galway Valley. While at least 20 Indians soldiers were killed, 43 casualties have also been reported from the Chinese side, according to ANI. The face-off took place in Ladakh`s Galwan Valley as a result of an attempt by the Chinese troops to "unilaterally change" the status quo during de-escalation in Eastern Ladakh and the situation could have been avoided if the agreement at the higher level been scrupulously followed by the Chinese side, India said on Tuesday. Indian and Chinese troops later disengaged. China`s Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui and Indian Ambassador to China Vikram Misri met in Beijing amid de-escalation efforts, sources said earlier in the day.

UN Secretary-General Guterres urges India and China to 'exercise maximum restraint'

india-news

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

india news