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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison will hold the first-ever Virtual Leaders Summit on Thursday morning that will see several announcements including on Mutual logistics support arrangement (MLSA). MLSA will increase bandwidth for areas of operation for both Indian and Australian forces in the Indo pacific and comes at a time when China has been increasingly belligerent. &nbsp;

Sources told WION, "The focus would be on the positive trajectory in bilateral relations during discussions between the two Prime Ministers, who have already met on four occasions on the sidelines of multilateral meetings."

Explaining, " As two democratic nations, India and Australia have developed an understanding of each other’s perspectives on regional and global issues. We have a shared approach to a free open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This has led to the convergence of mutual interest in many areas."&nbsp;

Ahead of the virtual summit the Australian high commissioner Barry O’Farrell said India and Australia have obligations to keep Indo Pacific region "open and free" and "might is not right policies" as pursued by some countries not acceptable.&nbsp;

Responding to a question on increased Chinese belligerence from Taiwan to India China Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, Australian high commissioner said, "We share democracies, the great game of cricket and believe in Indo Pacific region, that the region should be free, open. As 2 great powers, we have obligations that we promoting free open Indo Pacific and not might is right polices".&nbsp;

During the meet, both sides will discuss issues like COVID crisis, boosting science and technology cooperation, stronger collaboration on cybersecurity and critical technology, maritime issues in the Indo Pacific etc.

Both countries enjoy close cooperation in security and defence. India and Australia commenced their first bilateral naval exercise ‘AUSINDEX’ in 2015 focussed at deepening defence and maritime cooperation especially in the Indian Ocean. 2019 saw 3rd AUSINDEX exercises in the Bay of Bengal and 4th bilateral Army exercises AUSTRAHIND in September 2019 in Australia.&nbsp;

Australian PM was to visit India in January this year, but could not due to the devastating bush fires in the country. Both leaders have already met 4 times on the sidelines of multilateral summits in last one and a half years – sidelines of EAS in Singapore (14 November 2018), G20 in Osaka (29 June 2019), G7 Summit in Biarritz (25 August 2019) and EAS in Bangkok (04 November 2019).

Speaking to a select group of journalist, Australian high commissioner while lauding PM Modi for using "technology for diplomacies like TCS and Wipro have used for business and taking it to a new level" said, "Modi hug" will be missed at the virtual summit.&nbsp;

This will be the first time PM Modi will be holding a “bilateral” Virtual Summit with a foreign leader. Australia has already done one such bilateral virtual summit with Singapore in March 2020.&nbsp;

Australia has supported India's presence at an expanded United Nations Security Council. Canberra has backed India for its membership at export control groups like Australia Group, and Wassenaar Arrangement and favours India’s membership of NSG. It has also co-sponsored UNSC resolution to declare Azhar Masood a global terrorist.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison will hold the first-ever Virtual Leaders Summit on Thursday morning that will see several announcements including on Mutual logistics support arrangement (MLSA).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison will hold the first-ever Virtual Leaders Summit on Thursday morning that will see several announcements including on Mutual logistics support arrangement (MLSA). MLSA will increase bandwidth for areas of operation for both Indian and Australian forces in the Indo pacific and comes at a time when China has been increasingly belligerent. Sources told WION, "The focus would be on the positive trajectory in bilateral relations during discussions between the two Prime Ministers, who have already met on four occasions on the sidelines of multilateral meetings." Explaining, " As two democratic nations, India and Australia have developed an understanding of each other’s perspectives on regional and global issues. We have a shared approach to a free open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This has led to the convergence of mutual interest in many areas." Ahead of the virtual summit the Australian high commissioner Barry O’Farrell said India and Australia have obligations to keep Indo Pacific region "open and free" and "might is not right policies" as pursued by some countries not acceptable. Responding to a question on increased Chinese belligerence from Taiwan to India China Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, Australian high commissioner said, "We share democracies, the great game of cricket and believe in Indo Pacific region, that the region should be free, open. As 2 great powers, we have obligations that we promoting free open Indo Pacific and not might is right polices". During the meet, both sides will discuss issues like COVID crisis, boosting science and technology cooperation, stronger collaboration on cybersecurity and critical technology, maritime issues in the Indo Pacific etc. Both countries enjoy close cooperation in security and defence. India and Australia commenced their first bilateral naval exercise ‘AUSINDEX’ in 2015 focussed at deepening defence and maritime cooperation especially in the Indian Ocean. 2019 saw 3rd AUSINDEX exercises in the Bay of Bengal and 4th bilateral Army exercises AUSTRAHIND in September 2019 in Australia. Australian PM was to visit India in January this year, but could not due to the devastating bush fires in the country. Both leaders have already met 4 times on the sidelines of multilateral summits in last one and a half years – sidelines of EAS in Singapore (14 November 2018), G20 in Osaka (29 June 2019), G7 Summit in Biarritz (25 August 2019) and EAS in Bangkok (04 November 2019). Speaking to a select group of journalist, Australian high commissioner while lauding PM Modi for using "technology for diplomacies like TCS and Wipro have used for business and taking it to a new level" said, "Modi hug" will be missed at the virtual summit. This will be the first time PM Modi will be holding a “bilateral” Virtual Summit with a foreign leader. Australia has already done one such bilateral virtual summit with Singapore in March 2020. Australia has supported India's presence at an expanded United Nations Security Council. Canberra has backed India for its membership at export control groups like Australia Group, and Wassenaar Arrangement and favours India’s membership of NSG. It has also co-sponsored UNSC resolution to declare Azhar Masood a global terrorist.

First India-Australia virtual summit tomorrow; both countries to announce logistics support arrangement

The nationwide tally of confirmed COVID-19 cases crossed the 2-lakh mark on Tuesday with almost one lakh people testing positive for the dreaded virus infection in the last 15 days.

India's COVID-19 tally crosses 2,00,000, death toll reaches 5,598

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases. The state currently has 11345 active cases and has seen 208 deaths, of which a large number have been senior citizens and those with co-morbidities.&nbsp;

The state has been witnessing over 1000 cases daily over the last four days, with over 80 per cent&nbsp;of the cases coming from Chennai alone. Discrepancy in data collection by the Private labs in Chennai has led the Chennai Corporation to issue a new set of instructions to collect personal information of the individuals whose samples are being taken. The Civic body has stated that the labs are required to collect full address details including door number, street name, locality, pin code and also the persons Aadhaar number.&nbsp;

To ensure better traceability of the individuals the Civic body has also urged labs to call and verify the phone numbers of those being tested, before accepting the contact and personal details. If in case the suspected person does not possess an Aadhaar card and the sample has been taken, then he/she must be placed under quarantine until the results are declared

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that cases were on the rise in Chennai and its adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. He reasoned that this was due to the population density and the crowded areas including slums.He stated that the state is testing around 13000 people per day and that Tamil Nadu had a high recovery rate, which is over 57 per cent, while the mortality rate has also been low.&nbsp;

The Chief Minister stated that there were a total of 3371 ventilators in Government(2741) and Private(630) hospitals across the state. In terms of the number of beds that are kept ready, Chennai has 17500 beds and there are 75,000 across the state. He added that the Government is also considering distributing masks to all ration card holders, adding that the Chennai corporation had already distributed 1.5crore masks to the poor and needy.&nbsp;

While Tamil Nadu has extended the lockdown till June 30th, the extension has come with a slew of relaxations. Dine-in with 50% occupancy will be permitted in hotels from June 8th, salons and Beauty parlors have opened from Monday and also limited number of cabs are plying on the roads, besides the resumption of bus services in certain districts.

It is notable that Tamil Nadu is the first state to make it mandatory for customers at salons to give their Aadhaar card number, along with their name address and phone number to ensure quick-contact tracing, if and when the need arises. While the services have resumed, the shops have been instructed to operate without air conditioning,&nbsp;&nbsp;on an appointment basis, with only 50% occupancy and less number of customers waiting at the parlors.&nbsp;

While all standalone shops and even large retailers, showrooms have been permitted to open for business, shopping malls remain shut. Public spaces, parks, beaches, gyms and swimming pools, clubs have remained closed since the first phase of the lockdown that began on March 25th.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases.

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases. The state currently has 11345 active cases and has seen 208 deaths, of which a large number have been senior citizens and those with co-morbidities. The state has been witnessing over 1000 cases daily over the last four days, with over 80 per cent of the cases coming from Chennai alone. Discrepancy in data collection by the Private labs in Chennai has led the Chennai Corporation to issue a new set of instructions to collect personal information of the individuals whose samples are being taken. The Civic body has stated that the labs are required to collect full address details including door number, street name, locality, pin code and also the persons Aadhaar number. To ensure better traceability of the individuals the Civic body has also urged labs to call and verify the phone numbers of those being tested, before accepting the contact and personal details. If in case the suspected person does not possess an Aadhaar card and the sample has been taken, then he/she must be placed under quarantine until the results are declared Addressing the media on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that cases were on the rise in Chennai and its adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. He reasoned that this was due to the population density and the crowded areas including slums.He stated that the state is testing around 13000 people per day and that Tamil Nadu had a high recovery rate, which is over 57 per cent, while the mortality rate has also been low. The Chief Minister stated that there were a total of 3371 ventilators in Government(2741) and Private(630) hospitals across the state. In terms of the number of beds that are kept ready, Chennai has 17500 beds and there are 75,000 across the state. He added that the Government is also considering distributing masks to all ration card holders, adding that the Chennai corporation had already distributed 1.5crore masks to the poor and needy. While Tamil Nadu has extended the lockdown till June 30th, the extension has come with a slew of relaxations. Dine-in with 50% occupancy will be permitted in hotels from June 8th, salons and Beauty parlors have opened from Monday and also limited number of cabs are plying on the roads, besides the resumption of bus services in certain districts. It is notable that Tamil Nadu is the first state to make it mandatory for customers at salons to give their Aadhaar card number, along with their name address and phone number to ensure quick-contact tracing, if and when the need arises. While the services have resumed, the shops have been instructed to operate without air conditioning, on an appointment basis, with only 50% occupancy and less number of customers waiting at the parlors. While all standalone shops and even large retailers, showrooms have been permitted to open for business, shopping malls remain shut. Public spaces, parks, beaches, gyms and swimming pools, clubs have remained closed since the first phase of the lockdown that began on March 25th.

COVID-19: Tamil Nadu surpasses 25,000 cases; Chennai sees over 1,000 daily cases for the first time

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world.

The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged.

As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country.

Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged. As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country. Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

India COVID-19 tally crosses 2.07 lakh, death toll at 5,815

First, a deadly virus hit the state, and now a deadly storm. It has been a double whammy for the state of Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Cyclone Nisarga made landfall today and&nbsp;it was the worst storm the state has witnessed in decades. The state was hit with high winds, heavy rainfall with electricity lines snapped.&nbsp;

Over the next few hours, India's most populous city Mumbai was spared substantial damage as the eye of the storm moved southeast of Alibag.

Nisarga means nature and nature's fury was visible far and wide with 43 teams of the National Disaster Relief Force(NDRF) deployed in Maharashtra and Gujarat with 21 teams stationed in northern Maharashtra.

Nearly 1 lakh people were evacuated, the Meteorological department had called for stopping all fishing operations. Nisarga could not have arrived at a worse time as the state was tackling a deadly virus ensuring all virus restrictions were being followed but the relief operations have been a huge challenge.

"We are practising total social distancing and after arranging sanitization, drinking water and other arrangements for their stay, we shifted people from coastal areas, slums, and into relief centres," Vishwaprasad Rao, NDRF inspector, said.&nbsp;

Among those evacuated were around 150 COVID-19 patients. Authorities had to shift these patients to other hospitals as the newly built makeshift hospital that they were being treated in was located in a low-lying area.&nbsp;

Mumbai was just beginning to emerge from the virus-induced lockdown but fresh restrictions were announced in the wake of the cyclonic storm. Emergency services in Mumbai are already under immense strain, the city is among the worst-hit in India with the virus.&nbsp;

Mumbai and its surrounding areas have reported around 55,000 COVID--19 cases and over 1,700 deaths.&nbsp;

First, a deadly virus hit the state, and now a deadly storm. It has been a double whammy for the state of Maharashtra. Cyclone Nisarga made landfall today and it was the worst storm the state has witnessed in decades.

First, a deadly virus hit the state, and now a deadly storm. It has been a double whammy for the state of Maharashtra. Cyclone Nisarga made landfall today and it was the worst storm the state has witnessed in decades. The state was hit with high winds, heavy rainfall with electricity lines snapped. Over the next few hours, India's most populous city Mumbai was spared substantial damage as the eye of the storm moved southeast of Alibag. Nisarga means nature and nature's fury was visible far and wide with 43 teams of the National Disaster Relief Force(NDRF) deployed in Maharashtra and Gujarat with 21 teams stationed in northern Maharashtra. Nearly 1 lakh people were evacuated, the Meteorological department had called for stopping all fishing operations. Nisarga could not have arrived at a worse time as the state was tackling a deadly virus ensuring all virus restrictions were being followed but the relief operations have been a huge challenge. "We are practising total social distancing and after arranging sanitization, drinking water and other arrangements for their stay, we shifted people from coastal areas, slums, and into relief centres," Vishwaprasad Rao, NDRF inspector, said. Among those evacuated were around 150 COVID-19 patients. Authorities had to shift these patients to other hospitals as the newly built makeshift hospital that they were being treated in was located in a low-lying area. Mumbai was just beginning to emerge from the virus-induced lockdown but fresh restrictions were announced in the wake of the cyclonic storm. Emergency services in Mumbai are already under immense strain, the city is among the worst-hit in India with the virus. Mumbai and its surrounding areas have reported around 55,000 COVID--19 cases and over 1,700 deaths.

After coronavirus pandemic, cyclone Nisarga hits Maharashtra

The Madras High Court on Tuesday orally asked the Tamil Nadu government reason for not allowing Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts, Nalini and her husband Sriharan, to make video calls to their relatives in Sri Lanka when it had already decided to release her and six others.

A bench of Justice N Kirubakarn and Justice R Hemalatha observed during the hearing of a petition by Nalini's mother, seeking a direction to permit her daughter to speak to her mother-in-law in Sri Lanka and sister-in-law in London daily for ten minutes.

Making clear they were not in support of the convicts, the judges wondered as to why the prison authorities were refusing to grant the permission when the state has taken a stand to release all the seven convicts in the case.

It was referring to the decision of the state cabinet for premature release of the seven convicts, which is awaiting approval from the state Governor.

Public Prosecutor A Natarajan informed the court that Nalini cannot be allowed to make video calls as there was no such provision in rules for contacting any person in any foreign country.

Since the offence committed by the life convicts had international ramification and given their overseas contacts with banned outfits, there was no guarantee that the convicts would use this facility for a personal and family affair, he submitted.

The bench then adjourned the hearing to Wednesday with a direction to the prosecutor to inform the court the clear stand of the prison authorities.

Earlier, in a counter-affidavit, the state police had said there was no provision either in the Tamil Nadu Prison Rules or in government orders to allow a prisoner to make a video call or even voice call to 
any person in any foreign country.

The official noted that the issue involving foreign countries falls within the domain of Union Ministry for External Affairs, and the state government or the prison authorities cannot take any unilateral decision.

Besides Nalini and her husband, the others convicted in the case are A G Perarivalan, Santhan, Jayakumar, Ravichandran and Robert Pyas.

All are serving life imprisonment for their role in the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on May 21, 1991, by an LTTE suicide-bomber at nearby Sriperumbudur.

They were initially sentenced to death, but later the punishment was commuted to life imprisonment.

The Madras High Court on Tuesday orally asked the Tamil Nadu government reason for not allowing Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts, Nalini and her husband Sriharan, to make video calls to their relatives in Sri Lanka when it had already decided to release her and six others.

The Madras High Court on Tuesday orally asked the Tamil Nadu government reason for not allowing Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts, Nalini and her husband Sriharan, to make video calls to their relatives in Sri Lanka when it had already decided to release her and six others. A bench of Justice N Kirubakarn and Justice R Hemalatha observed during the hearing of a petition by Nalini's mother, seeking a direction to permit her daughter to speak to her mother-in-law in Sri Lanka and sister-in-law in London daily for ten minutes. Making clear they were not in support of the convicts, the judges wondered as to why the prison authorities were refusing to grant the permission when the state has taken a stand to release all the seven convicts in the case. It was referring to the decision of the state cabinet for premature release of the seven convicts, which is awaiting approval from the state Governor. Public Prosecutor A Natarajan informed the court that Nalini cannot be allowed to make video calls as there was no such provision in rules for contacting any person in any foreign country. Since the offence committed by the life convicts had international ramification and given their overseas contacts with banned outfits, there was no guarantee that the convicts would use this facility for a personal and family affair, he submitted. The bench then adjourned the hearing to Wednesday with a direction to the prosecutor to inform the court the clear stand of the prison authorities. Earlier, in a counter-affidavit, the state police had said there was no provision either in the Tamil Nadu Prison Rules or in government orders to allow a prisoner to make a video call or even voice call to any person in any foreign country. The official noted that the issue involving foreign countries falls within the domain of Union Ministry for External Affairs, and the state government or the prison authorities cannot take any unilateral decision. Besides Nalini and her husband, the others convicted in the case are A G Perarivalan, Santhan, Jayakumar, Ravichandran and Robert Pyas. All are serving life imprisonment for their role in the assassination of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on May 21, 1991, by an LTTE suicide-bomber at nearby Sriperumbudur. They were initially sentenced to death, but later the punishment was commuted to life imprisonment.

Why Rajiv Gandhi case convicts can't video call their relatives: Court asks state 

WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent of the Chinese intrusion.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh backs Bilateral talks with China

Maharashtra and Gujarat on Tuesday geared up for Cyclone Nisarga, which is expected to make landfall on Wednesday evening near Alibaug, south of Mumbai.

Cyclone Nisarga to make landfall later today near Mumbai

Google recently pulled down a top-trending app because it&nbsp;helped users detect and delete Chinese applications&nbsp;

It has taken down "remove China apps"&nbsp;from its Play Store. The Indian app has been accused of violating policies.&nbsp; 
According to Reuters, Google says the app misled users into removing third-party apps.

"Remove China app" had become a top trending free app in India. It had over 5 million&nbsp;downloads in two weeks. The app rose amid calls for boycotting Chinese apps in India.

China was not happy and Google did everything in its capacity to improve the Dragon's mood. Will Google go after every app that takes on China?&nbsp;

Another app was removed from the play store. Mitron was an alternative to TikTok. The app had over 5 million downloads.

Google accused Mitron of violating policies, however, with all its offensive content, TikTok has never managed to violate any of Google's policies. The Chinese app is sitting comfortably on the Play Store and it enjoys 4.4 stars.

Last week it had 1.2 stars, so how did it jump? Google removed millions of 1 star ratings for TikTok as the company said it was protecting TikTok from a so-called "mass attack".

Almost all of Google's services are blocked in mainland China but it's a huge market Google wants to capture.

Dancing along with Google is Apple with pretty much the same moves. In October 2019, Apple removed HKmap live. The app was used by organisers of Hong Kong protests and again, the app was accused of violating app store policies.

Apple said the app also violated local laws, only to add that the decision to remove HKmap live was solely Apple's choice.

Google recently pulled down a top-trending app because it helped users detect and delete Chinese applications It has taken down "remove China apps" from its Play Store.

Google recently pulled down a top-trending app because it helped users detect and delete Chinese applications It has taken down "remove China apps" from its Play Store. The Indian app has been accused of violating policies. According to Reuters, Google says the app misled users into removing third-party apps. "Remove China app" had become a top trending free app in India. It had over 5 million downloads in two weeks. The app rose amid calls for boycotting Chinese apps in India. China was not happy and Google did everything in its capacity to improve the Dragon's mood. Will Google go after every app that takes on China? Another app was removed from the play store. Mitron was an alternative to TikTok. The app had over 5 million downloads. Google accused Mitron of violating policies, however, with all its offensive content, TikTok has never managed to violate any of Google's policies. The Chinese app is sitting comfortably on the Play Store and it enjoys 4.4 stars. Last week it had 1.2 stars, so how did it jump? Google removed millions of 1 star ratings for TikTok as the company said it was protecting TikTok from a so-called "mass attack". Almost all of Google's services are blocked in mainland China but it's a huge market Google wants to capture. Dancing along with Google is Apple with pretty much the same moves. In October 2019, Apple removed HKmap live. The app was used by organisers of Hong Kong protests and again, the app was accused of violating app store policies. Apple said the app also violated local laws, only to add that the decision to remove HKmap live was solely Apple's choice.

Google removes viral Indian apps

A group called "Parents Association" has started an online petition on Change.org to convince the Central government to keep schools and colleges shut even after June 30 till the time govt can find any vaccine against COVID-19.

Indian Parents Start Petition to Keep Schools, Colleges Shut

India's first bilateral virtual summit with Australia is to be held between the two Prime Ministers on June 4. The new agreements will focus on reliable supply chains and key strategic sectors including medical goods, technology, and critical minerals.

1st Ind-Aus summit tomorrow: Emergency summit amid COVID-19 Pandemic

India's Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi spoke to US President Donald Trump on the phone, Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-bid-to-counter-china-invite-india-russia-to-g7-302693">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7</a>

President Trump extended invitation to PM Modi to attend the next G-7 summit to be held in the United States.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi expressed concern over the ongoing civil disturbances in the US, and conveyed his best wishes for an early resolution of the situation, the PMO said in a statement.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pm-modi-speaks-to-donald-trump-302749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States has been hit by violent clashes after an African-American George Floyd was allegedly killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. The police brutality led to large scale violence across the United States with reports of looting and arson.

Prime Minister Modi and US President also spoke to each other on the coronavirus crisis, the India-China border issue, and the need for reforms in the World Health Organisation, the PMO said.

The US President had earlier tried to intervene in the India-China standoff at the border but both countries sought to resolve the issue without US intervention.

The US President has been attacking the WHO for weeks and recently froze funds to the UN health body, with India now taking charge of WHO’s Executive Board as the chairman both countries are seeking a new way to address problems amid the coronavirus pandemic

 
&nbsp;

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Donald Trump on the phone, Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday. Also Read: Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7 President Trump extended invitation to PM Modi to attend the next G-7 summit to be held in the United States.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Donald Trump on the phone, Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday. Also Read: Trump's bid to counter China: Invite India, Russia to G7 President Trump extended invitation to PM Modi to attend the next G-7 summit to be held in the United States. During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi expressed concern over the ongoing civil disturbances in the US, and conveyed his best wishes for an early resolution of the situation, the PMO said in a statement. The United States has been hit by violent clashes after an African-American George Floyd was allegedly killed by a police officer in Minneapolis. The police brutality led to large scale violence across the United States with reports of looting and arson. Prime Minister Modi and US President also spoke to each other on the coronavirus crisis, the India-China border issue, and the need for reforms in the World Health Organisation, the PMO said. The US President had earlier tried to intervene in the India-China standoff at the border but both countries sought to resolve the issue without US intervention. The US President has been attacking the WHO for weeks and recently froze funds to the UN health body, with India now taking charge of WHO’s Executive Board as the chairman both countries are seeking a new way to address problems amid the coronavirus pandemic

PM Modi speaks to Trump over phone; discuss US riots, COVID-19 & WHO reforms

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going&nbsp;on for almost a month now.

Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down.

WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent&nbsp;of the Chinese intrusion.

"According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said.

"They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added.&nbsp;

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So that's the situation right now as&nbsp;the standoff continues with both&nbsp;sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute.

Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today&nbsp;leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism.

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"I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." 
-Chairman <a href="https://twitter.com/RepEliotEngel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepEliotEngel</a> <a href="https://t.co/say45WUhBt">https://t.co/say45WUhBt</a>
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In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues.

Engel heads the&nbsp;powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America.

A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one.

Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway,&nbsp;there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country."&nbsp;

While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt.

A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that&nbsp;the ball is now in China's court.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down. WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent of the Chinese intrusion. "According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said. "They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added. So that's the situation right now as the standoff continues with both sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute. Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism. "I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." -Chairman @RepEliotEngel https://t.co/say45WUhBt — House Foreign Affairs Committee (@HouseForeign) June 1, 2020 × In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues. Engel heads the powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America. A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one. Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway, there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country." While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt. A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that the ball is now in China's court.

A face-off happened, then they left, Rajnath Singh to WION on standoff with China

India's ministry of home affairs said it has decided to permit certain categories of foreign nationals to come into the country after considering the matter on relaxation of visa and travel restrictions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-to-ship-first-batch-of-100-ventilators-donated-to-india-next-week-white-house-302872">Also Read:&nbsp;US to ship first batch of 100 ventilators donated to India next week</a>

The categories of foreign nationals include foreign health professionals, engineering, managerial, design or other specialists travelling to India and foreign technical specialists and engineers travelling to India for installation, repair and maintenance of foreign-origin machinery and equipment.

However, travel to India comes with riders with health workers allowed to enter the country subject to a letter of invitation from a recognized healthcare facility.

Air India said today that it would be operating 75 flights to select destinations in the USA and Canada from June 9 to 30.

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We are also adding several more flights in the third phase of Vande Bharat Mission. 
 
These flights will also carry outbound passengers to countries which have no restrictions on taking them in. So people can also avail these flights to return to the countries they wish to go.
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Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan today urged the government to operate flights to Bhubaneswar from the Gulf, UK and Sri Lanka to bring back the people of Odisha stranded there due to the coronavirus crisis.

Indian authorities had opened domestic flight services from May 25.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 180 Indians stranded in Dubai arrived in Coimbatore today with the majority of passengers from Tamil Nadu.

The passengers were tested for coronavirus and sent then for institutional quarantine for one week.

India's ministry of home affairs said it has decided to permit certain categories of foreign nationals to come into the country after considering the matter on relaxation of visa and travel restrictions.

India's ministry of home affairs said it has decided to permit certain categories of foreign nationals to come into the country after considering the matter on relaxation of visa and travel restrictions. Also Read: US to ship first batch of 100 ventilators donated to India next week The categories of foreign nationals include foreign health professionals, engineering, managerial, design or other specialists travelling to India and foreign technical specialists and engineers travelling to India for installation, repair and maintenance of foreign-origin machinery and equipment. However, travel to India comes with riders with health workers allowed to enter the country subject to a letter of invitation from a recognized healthcare facility. Air India said today that it would be operating 75 flights to select destinations in the USA and Canada from June 9 to 30. We are also adding several more flights in the third phase of Vande Bharat Mission. These flights will also carry outbound passengers to countries which have no restrictions on taking them in. So people can also avail these flights to return to the countries they wish to go. — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) June 3, 2020 . × Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan today urged the government to operate flights to Bhubaneswar from the Gulf, UK and Sri Lanka to bring back the people of Odisha stranded there due to the coronavirus crisis. Indian authorities had opened domestic flight services from May 25. Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 180 Indians stranded in Dubai arrived in Coimbatore today with the majority of passengers from Tamil Nadu. The passengers were tested for coronavirus and sent then for institutional quarantine for one week.

India relaxes travel restrictions for select categories of foreign nationals

Cherry growers in Kashmir have demanded minimum support price (MSP) as despite the high yield this year farmers are facing massive losses due to limited demand amid the coronavirus pandemic. Watch report.

COVID-19 casts shadow over cherry industry in J&K: Farmers demand minimum support price for govt

Rajasthan today reported 102 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 9,475. The number of active cases now stands at 2,766 with the death toll rising to 203 in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-41-lakh-samples-tested-till-date-says-icmr-302909">Also Read:&nbsp;Over 41 lakh samples tested till date, says ICMR</a>

Amid the rise in cases, nationwide the number of cases rose to 8,909 with 217 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen 207,615 including over 101, 497 active cases.

Uttarakhand state health department said that the total number of coronavirus cases in the state had risen to 1,066. There are 795 active cases in the state, the health department said.

In Assam, 111 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 1,672, according to state health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai reopened salons and beauty parlors amid coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

In Andhra Pradesh, 79 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours along with four deaths. The total number of coronavirus cases in the state has now shot up to 3,279 with the death toll increasing to 68.

In Jharkhand, 51 new coronavirus cases were reported with the total number of cases rising to 726.

Rajasthan today reported 102 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 9,475. The number of active cases now stands at 2,766 with the death toll rising to 203 in the state.

Rajasthan today reported 102 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 9,475. The number of active cases now stands at 2,766 with the death toll rising to 203 in the state. Also Read: Over 41 lakh samples tested till date, says ICMR Amid the rise in cases, nationwide the number of cases rose to 8,909 with 217 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen 207,615 including over 101, 497 active cases. Uttarakhand state health department said that the total number of coronavirus cases in the state had risen to 1,066. There are 795 active cases in the state, the health department said. In Assam, 111 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 1,672, according to state health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai reopened salons and beauty parlors amid coronavirus pandemic. In Andhra Pradesh, 79 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours along with four deaths. The total number of coronavirus cases in the state has now shot up to 3,279 with the death toll increasing to 68. In Jharkhand, 51 new coronavirus cases were reported with the total number of cases rising to 726.

COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 102 new cases; salons reopen in Chennai

The National Green Tribunal, while hearing the matter pertaining to the Visakhapatnam gas leak incident, has directed Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary to identify and take appropriate actions against persons responsible for the failure of law in permitting the company to operate without statutory clearances.

A bench of the NGT, headed by its Chairperson AK Goel, on Monday directed the Chief Secretary to take appropriate actions within two months and file a report on the matter. It has been listed for further hearing on November 3.

The tribunal also directed the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&amp;CC) that it may also constitute an expert committee to suggest ways and means to revamp the monitoring mechanism to check and prevent violation of environmental norms and preventing any such recurrence in future in any of the establishments dealing with hazardous chemicals.

The NGT has asked the ministry to file an action taken report within three months.The bench directed that the Rs 50 crores deposited by the company with the District Magistrate, Visakhapatnam will stand appropriated towards part liability and interim compensation to be spent for restoration of the environment and compensation for the victims in accordance with the restoration plan to be prepared.

"Restoration plan may be prepared by a committee comprising two representatives each of MoEF&amp;CC, Central Pollution Control Board and three representatives of the state government to be named by the Chief Secretary, including the District Magistrate, Visakhapatnam, and such other concerned departments within two months from today.

MoEF&amp;CC will be the nodal agency for the purpose," The NGT said."Final quantification of compensation may be assessed by a committee comprising representatives of MoEF&amp;CC, CPCB, and NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute). The said Committee will be at liberty to associate/co-opt any other expert institution or individual," it added.

The green tribunal also said that the Secretary of Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change may ensure the constitution of such a committee within two weeks and the committee may give its report within two months thereafter.

The NGT had taken suo motu cognizance of the May 7 gas leak incident at LG Polymers chemical plant in Visakhapatnam, in which 11 people had lost their lives, and damage was caused to environment and habitat.

The National Green Tribunal, while hearing the matter pertaining to the Visakhapatnam gas leak incident, has directed Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary to identify and take appropriate actions against persons responsible for the failure of law in permitting the company to operate without statutory clearances.

The National Green Tribunal, while hearing the matter pertaining to the Visakhapatnam gas leak incident, has directed Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary to identify and take appropriate actions against persons responsible for the failure of law in permitting the company to operate without statutory clearances. A bench of the NGT, headed by its Chairperson AK Goel, on Monday directed the Chief Secretary to take appropriate actions within two months and file a report on the matter. It has been listed for further hearing on November 3. The tribunal also directed the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) that it may also constitute an expert committee to suggest ways and means to revamp the monitoring mechanism to check and prevent violation of environmental norms and preventing any such recurrence in future in any of the establishments dealing with hazardous chemicals. The NGT has asked the ministry to file an action taken report within three months.The bench directed that the Rs 50 crores deposited by the company with the District Magistrate, Visakhapatnam will stand appropriated towards part liability and interim compensation to be spent for restoration of the environment and compensation for the victims in accordance with the restoration plan to be prepared. "Restoration plan may be prepared by a committee comprising two representatives each of MoEF&CC, Central Pollution Control Board and three representatives of the state government to be named by the Chief Secretary, including the District Magistrate, Visakhapatnam, and such other concerned departments within two months from today. MoEF&CC will be the nodal agency for the purpose," The NGT said."Final quantification of compensation may be assessed by a committee comprising representatives of MoEF&CC, CPCB, and NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute). The said Committee will be at liberty to associate/co-opt any other expert institution or individual," it added. The green tribunal also said that the Secretary of Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change may ensure the constitution of such a committee within two weeks and the committee may give its report within two months thereafter. The NGT had taken suo motu cognizance of the May 7 gas leak incident at LG Polymers chemical plant in Visakhapatnam, in which 11 people had lost their lives, and damage was caused to environment and habitat.

Vizag gas leak: NGT directs action against those responsible for allowing company to operate without clearances

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Wednesday said that total 1,37,158 samples of coronavirus were tested in the last 24 hours. With this, the figure for the total number of tests reached 41,03,233 in the country.

Meanwhile, ICMR is continuously scaling up its testing facilities for Covid-19 by approving government and private laboratories. As of now, a total of 688 laboratories across India has been approved to conduct tests for Covid-19 including 480 government laboratories and 208 private laboratories' chains.

Meanwhile, With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours, India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world.

The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged.

As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Wednesday said that total 1,37,158 samples of coronavirus were tested in the last 24 hours. With this, the figure for the total number of tests reached 41,03,233 in the country.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Wednesday said that total 1,37,158 samples of coronavirus were tested in the last 24 hours. With this, the figure for the total number of tests reached 41,03,233 in the country. Meanwhile, ICMR is continuously scaling up its testing facilities for Covid-19 by approving government and private laboratories. As of now, a total of 688 laboratories across India has been approved to conduct tests for Covid-19 including 480 government laboratories and 208 private laboratories' chains. Meanwhile, With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours, India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged. As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 41 lakh samples tested till date, says ICMR

Cyclone Nisarga has made landfall as 'severe cyclonic storm' in Maharashtra and it will take three hours to complete the process.

Cyclone Nisarga hits India; Wind speed could go upto 120 km/h in next 24 hours

India has approved Remdesivir for emergency use for five doses in treating COVID-19 patients.

Gilead Sciences Inc's antiviral drug, which is administered intravenously in hospital, is the first drug to show improvement in COVID-19 patients in formal clinical trials and is at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19, which has no approved treatment or vaccine.

"(DCGI) has granted regulatory approval of (remdesivir) for treatment of suspected or laboratory confirmed COVID-19 in adults and children hospitalised with severe disease," Gilead said in an email on Wednesday.

"(Remdesivir) approved on June 1 under emergency use with condition for five dose administration," the Drugs Controller General of India said in an email on Tuesday.

Earlier this week, Gilead said the drug showed modest benefit in patients with moderate COVID-19 given a five-day course, while those who received it for 10 days in the study did not fare as well.

The drug was granted emergency use authorisation by the US Food and Drug Administration last month and has received approval by Japanese health regulators.

Earlier in the day, South Korea approved the drug's emergency use and said it will cooperate with Gilead for its swift import.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-approves-emergency-use-of-remdesivir-to-treat-covid-19-302807">Also read |&nbsp;South Korea approves emergency use of Remdesivir to treat COVID-19</a>

India's coronavirus infections crossed 200,000, latest official figures showed, with the death toll at 5,815.

Gilead had signed non-exclusive licensing pacts last month with five generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan. The company anticipates new supply to start to become available in July.

Governments are racing to bolster supplies of Remdesivir, with Europe also vying for the treatment.&nbsp;

(with inputs)

India has approved Remdesivir for emergency use for five doses in treating COVID-19 patients. Gilead Sciences Inc's antiviral drug, which is administered intravenously in hospital, is the first drug to show improvement in COVID-19 patients in formal clinical trials and is at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19, which has no approved treatment or vaccine.

India has approved Remdesivir for emergency use for five doses in treating COVID-19 patients. Gilead Sciences Inc's antiviral drug, which is administered intravenously in hospital, is the first drug to show improvement in COVID-19 patients in formal clinical trials and is at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19, which has no approved treatment or vaccine. "(DCGI) has granted regulatory approval of (remdesivir) for treatment of suspected or laboratory confirmed COVID-19 in adults and children hospitalised with severe disease," Gilead said in an email on Wednesday. "(Remdesivir) approved on June 1 under emergency use with condition for five dose administration," the Drugs Controller General of India said in an email on Tuesday. Earlier this week, Gilead said the drug showed modest benefit in patients with moderate COVID-19 given a five-day course, while those who received it for 10 days in the study did not fare as well. The drug was granted emergency use authorisation by the US Food and Drug Administration last month and has received approval by Japanese health regulators. Earlier in the day, South Korea approved the drug's emergency use and said it will cooperate with Gilead for its swift import. Also read | South Korea approves emergency use of Remdesivir to treat COVID-19 India's coronavirus infections crossed 200,000, latest official figures showed, with the death toll at 5,815. Gilead had signed non-exclusive licensing pacts last month with five generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan. The company anticipates new supply to start to become available in July. Governments are racing to bolster supplies of Remdesivir, with Europe also vying for the treatment. (with inputs)

India approves Remdesivir to treat severe COVID-19 cases

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland.

Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens.

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Hyvää päivää! 
 
Honoured and proud for the opportunity to represent my country as Ambassador to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finland</a>, a stunningly beautiful nation with the happiest people on the planet. Looking forward to play my role towards a stronger and vibrant India-Finland relationship. <a href="https://t.co/6vALbaypyy">pic.twitter.com/6vALbaypyy</a>
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"He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said.&nbsp;

Raveesh Kumar has served for 33 months in the high-profile MEA spokesperson post. He passed on the baton to Anurag Srivastava in April this year.

His diplomatic career began with the Indian Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia. He was also posted in Thimpu and London. While being posted in Delhi, he looked after the East Asia desk. Before being the Consul General of India at Frankfurt, Germany, he was the Deputy Chief of Mission in Jakarta from September 2010 to August 2013.

In Finland, he succeeds Vani Rao. Finland is an important country for India in Europe, and bilateral trade has been on an upswing in the last few years. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland. Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens.

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland. Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens. Hyvää päivää! Honoured and proud for the opportunity to represent my country as Ambassador to #Finland, a stunningly beautiful nation with the happiest people on the planet. Looking forward to play my role towards a stronger and vibrant India-Finland relationship. pic.twitter.com/6vALbaypyy — Raveesh Kumar (@raveesh_kumar) June 3, 2020 × "He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said. Raveesh Kumar has served for 33 months in the high-profile MEA spokesperson post. He passed on the baton to Anurag Srivastava in April this year. His diplomatic career began with the Indian Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia. He was also posted in Thimpu and London. While being posted in Delhi, he looked after the East Asia desk. Before being the Consul General of India at Frankfurt, Germany, he was the Deputy Chief of Mission in Jakarta from September 2010 to August 2013. In Finland, he succeeds Vani Rao. Finland is an important country for India in Europe, and bilateral trade has been on an upswing in the last few years. (With inputs from agencies)

Raveesh Kumar appointed as next Ambassador of India to Finland

India and China will hold Lieutenant General level talks on June 6 to address the ongoing dispute in Eastern Ladakh over the massive military buildup along the Line of Actual Control by the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) of China.&nbsp;

Indian Army sources said that the Leh-based 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh is scheduled to hold talks with his Chinese counterpart to resolve the matter.&nbsp;

Armies of both countries had held talks on Tuesday as well to resolve the crisis.

"There have been more than 10 round of talks held already between the two sides. On Tuesday also, officers from both sides held talks to resolve the crisis," Army sources had said.

They had said it seemed that the talks have not been able to make headway as there has been not much change in the ground position of both sides.

India and China have been locked in a dispute over the heavy military build-up by People's Liberation Army where they have brought in more than 5,000 troops along with the Eastern Ladakh sector.&nbsp;

In some areas, they are inside the Indian territory but their intent to carry out deeper incursions was checked by the Indian security forces by quick deployment.&nbsp;

The Chinese have also brought in heavy vehicles with artillery guns and infantry combat vehicles in their rear positions close to the Indian territory.&nbsp;

India and China will hold Lieutenant General level talks on June 6 to address the ongoing dispute in Eastern Ladakh over the massive military buildup along the Line of Actual Control by the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) of China.

India and China will hold Lieutenant General level talks on June 6 to address the ongoing dispute in Eastern Ladakh over the massive military buildup along the Line of Actual Control by the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) of China. Indian Army sources said that the Leh-based 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh is scheduled to hold talks with his Chinese counterpart to resolve the matter. Armies of both countries had held talks on Tuesday as well to resolve the crisis. "There have been more than 10 round of talks held already between the two sides. On Tuesday also, officers from both sides held talks to resolve the crisis," Army sources had said. They had said it seemed that the talks have not been able to make headway as there has been not much change in the ground position of both sides. India and China have been locked in a dispute over the heavy military build-up by People's Liberation Army where they have brought in more than 5,000 troops along with the Eastern Ladakh sector. In some areas, they are inside the Indian territory but their intent to carry out deeper incursions was checked by the Indian security forces by quick deployment. The Chinese have also brought in heavy vehicles with artillery guns and infantry combat vehicles in their rear positions close to the Indian territory.

Armies of India and China to hold Lt Gen level talks on June 6 to resolve Ladakh crisis

Alphabet Inc's Google has taken down an Indian mobile application from its app store that allowed users to remove other Chinese apps from their phones as it violated certain company policies, a spokesman said on Wednesday.

The app, "Remove China Apps", had become top trending free app on Google's mobile app store in India with more than five million downloads since late May. Its popularity rose amid calls for a boycott of Chinese mobile apps in India during a Himalayan border dispute between the two nations.

A Google spokesman confirmed to Reuters the app had been removed due to violation of app store policies, but gave no further details.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-anti-china-sentiments-grow-over-1-million-download-remove-china-apps-302322">Also read |&nbsp;As anti-China sentiments grow, over 1 million download 'Remove China Apps'</a>

A person familiar with the matter said the software violated Google's policies prohibiting apps that mislead users into removing or disabling third-party apps or modifying device settings or features.

Remove China Apps scanned users' phones for apps such as ByteDance's TikTok and Alibaba's UC Browser. Once deleted, a message popped up saying "You are awesome, no China app found."

OneTouch AppLabs, which developed the app, did not respond to a request for comment. On its website it confirmed the app had been removed and thanked users for their support.

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Many Indians and a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party have used the hash tag #BoycottChineseProducts on social media, calling for deletion of popular Chinese apps.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/remove-china-apps-tool-to-delete-chinese-apps-from-phone-goes-viral-in-india-302701">Also read |&nbsp;Google takes down Indian app that removed Chinese ones</a>

Alphabet Inc's Google has taken down an Indian mobile application from its app store that allowed users to remove other Chinese apps from their phones as it violated certain company policies, a spokesman said on Wednesday.

Alphabet Inc's Google has taken down an Indian mobile application from its app store that allowed users to remove other Chinese apps from their phones as it violated certain company policies, a spokesman said on Wednesday. The app, "Remove China Apps", had become top trending free app on Google's mobile app store in India with more than five million downloads since late May. Its popularity rose amid calls for a boycott of Chinese mobile apps in India during a Himalayan border dispute between the two nations. A Google spokesman confirmed to Reuters the app had been removed due to violation of app store policies, but gave no further details. Also read | As anti-China sentiments grow, over 1 million download 'Remove China Apps' A person familiar with the matter said the software violated Google's policies prohibiting apps that mislead users into removing or disabling third-party apps or modifying device settings or features. Remove China Apps scanned users' phones for apps such as ByteDance's TikTok and Alibaba's UC Browser. Once deleted, a message popped up saying "You are awesome, no China app found." OneTouch AppLabs, which developed the app, did not respond to a request for comment. On its website it confirmed the app had been removed and thanked users for their support. × Many Indians and a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party have used the hash tag #BoycottChineseProducts on social media, calling for deletion of popular Chinese apps. Also read | Google takes down Indian app that removed Chinese ones

Google takes down Indian app that removed Chinese ones

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation where the two leaders discussed the next G-7 Summit, the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing protests in the United States.

PM Modi, President Trump discuss situation on India-China border, US protests over phone

A moderate intensity earthquake of 4. 3 magnitude rocked the India-Bangladesh border on Wednesday morning but there were no reports of any damage, officials said.

The earthquake took place around 7.10 am and its epicenter was located at a depth of 55 km and a place 82 km southeast of Sohra, officials at the Regional Seismological Centre here said.

The tremor was felt by people across Meghalaya but there was no immediate report of any damage, a senior police officer told PTI.

A moderate intensity earthquake of 4. 3 magnitude rocked the India-Bangladesh border on Wednesday morning but there were no reports of any damage, officials said.

A moderate intensity earthquake of 4. 3 magnitude rocked the India-Bangladesh border on Wednesday morning but there were no reports of any damage, officials said. The earthquake took place around 7.10 am and its epicenter was located at a depth of 55 km and a place 82 km southeast of Sohra, officials at the Regional Seismological Centre here said. The tremor was felt by people across Meghalaya but there was no immediate report of any damage, a senior police officer told PTI.

4.3 magnitude earthquake hits India-Bangladesh border

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