Iran rejects Qatar’s peace plan as fears of new US-Israel strikes grow

'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?

Janhvi Kapoor breaks silence on Peddi controversy: 'Should have been more vigilant'

2.8 million eels gather near an Australian mountain every year. Here's why

'You Still Can't...': Yuvraj mocks Abhishek Sharma after 35-ball 100 in 3rd T20I vs New Zealand

JD Vance contacts Iran hard-liner Mohsen Rezaei to revive peace talks as Trump threatens to resume war: Report

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

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

King: Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor to reunite after 15 years for a special song

French President Macron, his wife face setback in defamation case against US influencer

US Midterms 2026: What would Ramaswamy’s win mean for the Indian diaspora

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

Maurene Comey, daughter of ex-FBI director James Comey, was unlawfully fired as federal prosecutor, judge rules

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

New OTT releases this week (October 26-November 1, 2026): Baththa, Akka, The One About Matthew Perry- 7 titles coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

'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

Baloch rebels kill over 80 Pak troops, Afghan shells blast Pak border in Munir nightmare | Gravitas

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

Ramayana: Rise of a Legend first reviews out! Ranbir Kapoor, Yash impress, but not everything works

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

India among 130 countries calling for end to US embargo on Cuba at UN

Flavio Bolsonaro claims he is Brazil's 'elected president' after fleeing to US; Trump says he 'won't get involved'

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

Likud claims election ‘stolen’ by Arab parties, demands probe; CEC says reviewing allegations

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’

US Federal Reserve keeps rates unchanged as inflation remains high; Warsh says politics 'played no role' in decision

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

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

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

Cyclone Nisarga: IMD warns of heavy rainfall, flying roofs and uprooted trees

Speaking exclusively to WION, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared what India is doing to end the border standoff in Ladakh.

Gravitas Exclusive: Indian Defence Minister on India-China border standoff  | Rajnath Singh

The US will ship next week the first batch of 100 ventilators it has donated to India to treat the coronavirus patients, President Donald Trump has told Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a conference call, the White House said.

Trump spoke with Modi on Tuesday and "the two leaders discussed the G-7 (summit), the COVID-19 response, and regional security issues", it said.

"The president was happy to announce that the United States would be ready to ship the first tranche of 100 donated ventilators to India next week, the White House said in a readout of the call.

India is now the seventh among the worst-hit nations by the COVID-19 pandemic after the US, Brazil, Russia, the UK, Spain and Italy.

India has reported over two lakh confirmed coronavirus cases and 5,815 deaths, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday.

Ventilators have emerged as a key medical device to treat critical coronavirus patients. Around 1 out of every 5 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops breathing difficulty, according to the World Health Organisation.

A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when a disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi in a series of tweets on Tuesday said that he had a warm and productive conversation with his friend Trump.

''We discussed his plans for the US Presidency of G-7, the COVID-19 pandemic, and many other issues,''&nbsp;he said.

''The richness and depth of India-US consultations will remain an important pillar of the post-COVID global architecture,'' Modi tweeted.

The US will ship next week the first batch of 100 ventilators it has donated to India to treat the coronavirus patients, President Donald Trump has told Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a conference call, the White House said.

The US will ship next week the first batch of 100 ventilators it has donated to India to treat the coronavirus patients, President Donald Trump has told Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a conference call, the White House said. Trump spoke with Modi on Tuesday and "the two leaders discussed the G-7 (summit), the COVID-19 response, and regional security issues", it said. "The president was happy to announce that the United States would be ready to ship the first tranche of 100 donated ventilators to India next week, the White House said in a readout of the call. India is now the seventh among the worst-hit nations by the COVID-19 pandemic after the US, Brazil, Russia, the UK, Spain and Italy. India has reported over two lakh confirmed coronavirus cases and 5,815 deaths, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday. Ventilators have emerged as a key medical device to treat critical coronavirus patients. Around 1 out of every 5 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops breathing difficulty, according to the World Health Organisation. A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when a disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi in a series of tweets on Tuesday said that he had a warm and productive conversation with his friend Trump. ''We discussed his plans for the US Presidency of G-7, the COVID-19 pandemic, and many other issues,'' he said. ''The richness and depth of India-US consultations will remain an important pillar of the post-COVID global architecture,'' Modi tweeted.

US to ship first batch of 100 ventilators donated to India next week: White House

2 officials of the Pak High Commission in New Delhi have been expelled for spying on Indian security installations. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the details of the operation.

Gravitas: Pak's 'Spy diplomats' caught red-handed

The Centre on Tuesday opposed and sought dismissal of a petition seeking declaration of funds received by the Prime Ministers Citizens Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES), a public charitable trust created by the government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh told the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court that the petition, filed by advocate Arvind Waghmare, should be dismissed.

A similar petition against setting up of the PM CARES fund was dismissed by the Supreme Court in April, he informed a division bench of Justices S B Shukre and A S Kilor.

The bench, however, noted that the petition before it was seeking different reliefs, and directed the Union government to file an affidavit in response to the plea within two weeks.

"File an affidavit stating whatever is your (Union government's) stand, the court said.

Waghmare in his petition sought a direction to the government to declare funds received and expenditure of the same on the governments website periodically.

As per the plea, thePMCAREStrust, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its chairperson and ministers from departments of Defence, Home and Finance as its members, was created with the prime objective of dealing with the emergency or distress caused by the coronavirus.

The trust was created in order to have financial assistance from people in the country and also from overseas to provide relief and assistance to those affected by COVID-19 pandemic, it said.

As per the guidelines of thePMCARESFund, apart from the chairperson and three other trustees, the chairperson had to appoint or nominate three more trustees. However, from the formation of the trust on March 28, 2020 till date no appointment has been made, the petition claimed.

The petition has sought a direction to the government and the trust to appoint or nominate at least two members from opposition parties to have proper check and transparency.

"In order to fortify and strengthen general public's faith and confidence, it is necessary to issue a direction to the government to declare the funds collected by PM CARES trust till date, and how the same have been used for the benefits of citizens affected by coronavirus, the plea said.&nbsp;

The Centre on Tuesday opposed and sought dismissal of a petition seeking declaration of funds received by the Prime Ministers Citizens Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES), a public charitable trust created by the government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Centre on Tuesday opposed and sought dismissal of a petition seeking declaration of funds received by the Prime Ministers Citizens Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES), a public charitable trust created by the government amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh told the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court that the petition, filed by advocate Arvind Waghmare, should be dismissed. A similar petition against setting up of the PM CARES fund was dismissed by the Supreme Court in April, he informed a division bench of Justices S B Shukre and A S Kilor. The bench, however, noted that the petition before it was seeking different reliefs, and directed the Union government to file an affidavit in response to the plea within two weeks. "File an affidavit stating whatever is your (Union government's) stand, the court said. Waghmare in his petition sought a direction to the government to declare funds received and expenditure of the same on the governments website periodically. As per the plea, thePMCAREStrust, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its chairperson and ministers from departments of Defence, Home and Finance as its members, was created with the prime objective of dealing with the emergency or distress caused by the coronavirus. The trust was created in order to have financial assistance from people in the country and also from overseas to provide relief and assistance to those affected by COVID-19 pandemic, it said. As per the guidelines of thePMCARESFund, apart from the chairperson and three other trustees, the chairperson had to appoint or nominate three more trustees. However, from the formation of the trust on March 28, 2020 till date no appointment has been made, the petition claimed. The petition has sought a direction to the government and the trust to appoint or nominate at least two members from opposition parties to have proper check and transparency. "In order to fortify and strengthen general public's faith and confidence, it is necessary to issue a direction to the government to declare the funds collected by PM CARES trust till date, and how the same have been used for the benefits of citizens affected by coronavirus, the plea said.

Centre opposes in HC plea on declaration of PM CARES funds

At least three terrorists were killed while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

''On May 28, six to seven terrorists while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the Line of Control, were detected by Indian troops who in a swift operation eliminated three while at least one was seriously injured, said Nagrota Corps officials.&nbsp;

The Operation which lasted for four days resulted in the recovery of a cache of weapons, including two &nbsp;AK 47 rifles, one M16 A2 rifle, one pistol, one UBGL as well as ammunition and grenades.

Pakistan markings on eatables and a few other items indicate complicity of Pakistan, said Nagrota Corps officials.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a terrorist was killed in an exchange of fire in an ongoing encounter at Saimoh in Tral belt of South Kashmir's Pulwama district.&nbsp;

“One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing exchange of fire so far while as one to two more are believed to be trapped,” a top official said. &nbsp;

Kashmir police tweeted about the encounter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Encounter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Encounter</a> has started at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saimoh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saimoh</a> area of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tral?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tral</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Awantipora?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Awantipora</a>. Police and security forces are on the job. So far, 01 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/terrorist?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#terrorist</a> killed. Operation going on. Further details shall follow. <a href="https://twitter.com/JmuKmrPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JmuKmrPolice</a>
— Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/KashmirPolice/status/1267610239546920961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 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>

&nbsp;

At least three terrorists were killed while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. ''On May 28, six to seven terrorists while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the Line of Control, were detected by Indian troops who in a swift operation eliminated three while at least one was seriously injured, said Nagrota Corps officials.

At least three terrorists were killed while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. ''On May 28, six to seven terrorists while attempting to infiltrate in Naushera Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the Line of Control, were detected by Indian troops who in a swift operation eliminated three while at least one was seriously injured, said Nagrota Corps officials. The Operation which lasted for four days resulted in the recovery of a cache of weapons, including two AK 47 rifles, one M16 A2 rifle, one pistol, one UBGL as well as ammunition and grenades. Pakistan markings on eatables and a few other items indicate complicity of Pakistan, said Nagrota Corps officials. Meanwhile, a terrorist was killed in an exchange of fire in an ongoing encounter at Saimoh in Tral belt of South Kashmir's Pulwama district. “One terrorist has been killed in an ongoing exchange of fire so far while as one to two more are believed to be trapped,” a top official said. Kashmir police tweeted about the encounter. #Encounter has started at #Saimoh area of #Tral #Awantipora. Police and security forces are on the job. So far, 01 #terrorist killed. Operation going on. Further details shall follow. @JmuKmrPolice — Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) June 2, 2020 ×

3 terrorists killed during infiltration bid close to LoC in Naushera sector

The Work From Home (WFH) Culture is here to stay! What began as a mark of precaution in many companies before the outbreak of Covid-19 in India, is set to be the norm for the coming times. Several companies across sectors as having even been rolling out WFH allowances and other benefits for their employees who are ensuring business continuity while operating remotely.&nbsp;

One of the major issues faced while working from homes and other remote locations is the unavailability of a proper workspace setup. The lack of ergonomic chairs, tables and other could lead to small discomforts such as backaches and neck aches, as a result of prolonged sitting.&nbsp;

California-Headquartered Freshworks that provides customer engagement software for businesses, had gone into WFH mode much before national lockdowns were enforced across the globe, besides rolling out an allowance for helping employee set-up a home workspace.&nbsp;

“All 3000 employees across 13 countries (Including India) are provided an allowance of 250USD(18000 INR) to procure the right tools, be it larger monitors, furniture or ergonomic keyboards etc.. Since we were early to start remote work, most of our employees were able to make use of this allowance before shops closed,” Suman Gopalan, CHRO of Freshworks told WION.&nbsp;

Companies that do not have a dedicated WFH allowance have permitted employees to utilize their Health and Fitness allowance to purchase the necessary home office furniture.&nbsp;

“Across India, over 400 full-time employees have been issued laptops and accessories. We also reimburse internet expenses for all employees and even interns. But in the case of furniture we have tied up with a vendor for the best deals and our employees can purchase from them and get it reimbursed up to Rs.5000” Karthikeyan, Manager Corporate Services, Lennox India Technology Centre told WION.&nbsp;

While relatively smaller firms have been able to provide such special allowances for furniture and gadgets, the big IT firms that employ lakhs of people worldwide have been enabling remote working by providing laptops, internet dongles and reimbursements for internet/phone bills.&nbsp;

Healthcare consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman said that that almost all companies have announced to continue WFH till the end of June or even August(assuming there is no drug or vaccine available). “Decisions may be taken to allow people to work in rotation and to explore other methods for the longer run. However, WFH involves huge cost savings for the companies. Right from power bills, rents, admin, house-keeping expenses to operating cafeterias and fleets of buses, this would have a significant impact on the bottom line of the companies” he told WION.

The recent weeks have also seen statements about long-term WFH plans from the chiefs of major Indian IT firms.&nbsp;

India’s largest firm Tata Consultancy Services plans to ask a vast majority of 75% of its 4.48 lakh employees globally (including 3.5 lakh in India) to work from home, up from the industry average of 20% today. The new model called 25/25 will require far less office space than occupied today.&nbsp;

HCL technologies too have proposed that going forward, they will allow 50% of their employees to work from home while the remaining would continue their work from offices in the next 12-18 months

At the Global level, Amazon.com Inc has said that employees that work in a. Roel that can be performed from home can continue to do so until October 2nd. It is not known as to what percentage of their total staff this applies to.

Google has also said that a vast majority of their employees will likely WFH til the end of this year, this came after Facebook had also made a similar announcement.

The Work From Home (WFH) Culture is here to stay! What began as a mark of precaution in many companies before the outbreak of Covid-19 in India, is set to be the norm for the coming times.

The Work From Home (WFH) Culture is here to stay! What began as a mark of precaution in many companies before the outbreak of Covid-19 in India, is set to be the norm for the coming times. Several companies across sectors as having even been rolling out WFH allowances and other benefits for their employees who are ensuring business continuity while operating remotely. One of the major issues faced while working from homes and other remote locations is the unavailability of a proper workspace setup. The lack of ergonomic chairs, tables and other could lead to small discomforts such as backaches and neck aches, as a result of prolonged sitting. California-Headquartered Freshworks that provides customer engagement software for businesses, had gone into WFH mode much before national lockdowns were enforced across the globe, besides rolling out an allowance for helping employee set-up a home workspace. “All 3000 employees across 13 countries (Including India) are provided an allowance of 250USD(18000 INR) to procure the right tools, be it larger monitors, furniture or ergonomic keyboards etc.. Since we were early to start remote work, most of our employees were able to make use of this allowance before shops closed,” Suman Gopalan, CHRO of Freshworks told WION. Companies that do not have a dedicated WFH allowance have permitted employees to utilize their Health and Fitness allowance to purchase the necessary home office furniture. “Across India, over 400 full-time employees have been issued laptops and accessories. We also reimburse internet expenses for all employees and even interns. But in the case of furniture we have tied up with a vendor for the best deals and our employees can purchase from them and get it reimbursed up to Rs.5000” Karthikeyan, Manager Corporate Services, Lennox India Technology Centre told WION. While relatively smaller firms have been able to provide such special allowances for furniture and gadgets, the big IT firms that employ lakhs of people worldwide have been enabling remote working by providing laptops, internet dongles and reimbursements for internet/phone bills. Healthcare consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman said that that almost all companies have announced to continue WFH till the end of June or even August(assuming there is no drug or vaccine available). “Decisions may be taken to allow people to work in rotation and to explore other methods for the longer run. However, WFH involves huge cost savings for the companies. Right from power bills, rents, admin, house-keeping expenses to operating cafeterias and fleets of buses, this would have a significant impact on the bottom line of the companies” he told WION. The recent weeks have also seen statements about long-term WFH plans from the chiefs of major Indian IT firms. India’s largest firm Tata Consultancy Services plans to ask a vast majority of 75% of its 4.48 lakh employees globally (including 3.5 lakh in India) to work from home, up from the industry average of 20% today. The new model called 25/25 will require far less office space than occupied today. HCL technologies too have proposed that going forward, they will allow 50% of their employees to work from home while the remaining would continue their work from offices in the next 12-18 months At the Global level, Amazon.com Inc has said that employees that work in a. Roel that can be performed from home can continue to do so until October 2nd. It is not known as to what percentage of their total staff this applies to. Google has also said that a vast majority of their employees will likely WFH til the end of this year, this came after Facebook had also made a similar announcement.

Work from home the new normal: Companies offer furniture, gadget allowance to employees

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-198-lakh-mark-in-india-death-toll-at-5598-302533">Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598</a> 
 
“While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy.

Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech:&nbsp;

1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 
&nbsp; 
2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 
&nbsp; 
3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 
&nbsp; 
4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8.&nbsp;

5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 
 
6:&nbsp;To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 
 
7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 
&nbsp; 
8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor.

9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion.

10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality.

11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said. PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy. Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech: 1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8. 5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 6: To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor. 9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion. 10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality. 11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

India has left lockdown behind, will get our growth back, says PM Modi

Coronavirus cases in India continue to spike at a steady rate taking the country to the seventh position on the chart of worst-affected nations across the world due to the deadly pandemic.

COVID-19: India records 8,171 cases, 204 deaths in last 24 hours

Mumbai today reported 1,109 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-left-lockdown-behind-will-get-our-growth-back-says-pm-modi-302546">coronavirus</a> cases with 49 deaths in the last 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbais-dharavi-slum-area-reports-25-covid-19-cases-markets-open-in-delhi-302647">Also Read:&nbsp;Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi</a>

The number of coronavirus cases in India's financial capital has surged to 41,986 with the death toll climbing to 1,368.

Maharashtra recorded 2,287 new COVID-19 cases with 103 deaths today, taking the total number of cases in the state to 72,300.

India's national capital recorded 1,298 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the total death toll climbing to 556.

Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, 137 people tested positive for coronavirus with the total number of cases in the state climbing to 8,420.

Jharkhand on Tuesday reported 37 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases rising to 712. The state health department said that there are 387 active cases.

In Rajasthan 273 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 9373, the health department said.

Mumbai today reported 1,109 coronavirus cases with 49 deaths in the last 24 hours. Also Read: Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi The number of coronavirus cases in India's financial capital has surged to 41,986 with the death toll climbing to 1,368.

Mumbai today reported 1,109 coronavirus cases with 49 deaths in the last 24 hours. Also Read: Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi The number of coronavirus cases in India's financial capital has surged to 41,986 with the death toll climbing to 1,368. Maharashtra recorded 2,287 new COVID-19 cases with 103 deaths today, taking the total number of cases in the state to 72,300. India's national capital recorded 1,298 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the total death toll climbing to 556. Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, 137 people tested positive for coronavirus with the total number of cases in the state climbing to 8,420. Jharkhand on Tuesday reported 37 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases rising to 712. The state health department said that there are 387 active cases. In Rajasthan 273 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 9373, the health department said.

COVID-19: Maharashtra records 103 deaths, Mumbai reports 1,109 new cases

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours.

The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. 
 
<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0bc3248-e395-4d89-bcb5-5175bc1cf057" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_LINE_GRAPH_INDIA_COVID.jpg" />

<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="697b4fbf-1399-4be1-bd64-d1a4e4e8619d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_MAP_GFX.jpg" /> 
 
As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years.

WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high.

WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19.

WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely.

WION: Any plans for repatriation? 
 
Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years. WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high. WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19. WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely. WION: Any plans for repatriation? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

Amid Covid- 19 crisis, life in Pyongyang normal says India's envoy to North Korea

Tropical cyclone Nisarga is going to make landfall near Mumbai on June 3, 2020, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and a possible storm surge to the city before the monsoon season begins in the region, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclones-before-amphan-that-wrecked-indias-coast-299747">In pictures: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast</a>

Maharashtra and Gujarat are on pre-cyclone alert as very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in parts of the states on June 3 and June 4. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea for the next few days as it is expected to be very rough. 
 
The NDRF has already deployed 13 teams in Gujarat including 2 kept as reserve and 16 in Maharashtra including 7 teams as a reserve, while one team each was deployed for Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. NDRF is aiding the state governments for the evacuation of people from low lying coastal areas.

This will be the first time that a cyclone will make landfall on the Maharashtra coast in June since record-keeping began in 1891.

Meanwhile, at 9 pm on Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had said that the well-marked low-pressure area over South-East and adjoining East-Central Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep area concentrated into a depression and it is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and intensify further into a cyclonic storm over the East-Central Arabian Sea during the subsequent 24 hours."The depression lays about 310km southwest of Panjim, 570km south-southwest of Mumbai, 800 km south-southwest of Surat. It will cross Harihareshwar (Maharashtra) and Daman coast on the evening of June 3," IMD said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tropical cyclone Nisarga is going to make landfall near Mumbai on June 3, 2020, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and a possible storm surge to the city before the monsoon season begins in the region, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Tropical cyclone Nisarga is going to make landfall near Mumbai on June 3, 2020, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and a possible storm surge to the city before the monsoon season begins in the region, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In pictures: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast Maharashtra and Gujarat are on pre-cyclone alert as very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in parts of the states on June 3 and June 4. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea for the next few days as it is expected to be very rough. The NDRF has already deployed 13 teams in Gujarat including 2 kept as reserve and 16 in Maharashtra including 7 teams as a reserve, while one team each was deployed for Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. NDRF is aiding the state governments for the evacuation of people from low lying coastal areas. This will be the first time that a cyclone will make landfall on the Maharashtra coast in June since record-keeping began in 1891. Meanwhile, at 9 pm on Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had said that the well-marked low-pressure area over South-East and adjoining East-Central Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep area concentrated into a depression and it is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and intensify further into a cyclonic storm over the East-Central Arabian Sea during the subsequent 24 hours."The depression lays about 310km southwest of Panjim, 570km south-southwest of Mumbai, 800 km south-southwest of Surat. It will cross Harihareshwar (Maharashtra) and Daman coast on the evening of June 3," IMD said. (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai on red alert as Cyclone Nisarga to strike pandemic-hit city

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has come up with a disinfection system called 'Ultra Swachh'. This unit will disinfect a wide range of materials, including &nbsp;Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), electronics items, fabrics, etc.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbais-dharavi-slum-area-reports-25-covid-19-cases-markets-open-in-delhi-302647" hreflang="en">Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi</a>

Ultra Swachh uses an advanced oxidative process by using Ozonated Space Technology for the disinfection process.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DRDO develops Ultra Swachh for disinfection of PPEs and other materials <a href="https://t.co/yhPkGg8QjA">https://t.co/yhPkGg8QjA</a>
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India/status/1267437369000673280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 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>

The product was developed by Institute of Nuclear Medicine &amp; Allied Sciences (a Delhi-based DRDO laboratory), along with Gel Craft Healthcare Private Ltd which is based in Ghaziabad.&nbsp;

According to the Press Information Bureau's (PIB) statement, the system consists of double-layered Ozone sealant technology that will trap the ozone particles as a prerequisite for the disinfection process. The unit is eco-friendly as it consists of a catalytic converter.&nbsp;

The system complies with International Standards of industrial, occupational, personal, and environmental safety.

There are two variants of Ultra Swachh, one is Ozonated Space and second is Trinetra Technology. &nbsp;Trinetra technology is a combination of Ozonated space and radical dispenser. Treatment is optimised with automation for a quick disinfection cycle.&nbsp;

It operates on 15 Ampere, 220 Volts, 50-hertz power supply.&nbsp;

The dimensions of an Industrial Cabinet to disinfect large quantities at a time are 7’x4’x3.25’. Different sizes will be available soon.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has come up with a disinfection system called 'Ultra Swachh'. This unit will disinfect a wide range of materials, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), electronics items, fabrics, etc.

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has come up with a disinfection system called 'Ultra Swachh'. This unit will disinfect a wide range of materials, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), electronics items, fabrics, etc. Also read: Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi Ultra Swachh uses an advanced oxidative process by using Ozonated Space Technology for the disinfection process. DRDO develops Ultra Swachh for disinfection of PPEs and other materials https://t.co/yhPkGg8QjA — DRDO (@DRDO_India) June 1, 2020 × The product was developed by Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences (a Delhi-based DRDO laboratory), along with Gel Craft Healthcare Private Ltd which is based in Ghaziabad. According to the Press Information Bureau's (PIB) statement, the system consists of double-layered Ozone sealant technology that will trap the ozone particles as a prerequisite for the disinfection process. The unit is eco-friendly as it consists of a catalytic converter. The system complies with International Standards of industrial, occupational, personal, and environmental safety. There are two variants of Ultra Swachh, one is Ozonated Space and second is Trinetra Technology. Trinetra technology is a combination of Ozonated space and radical dispenser. Treatment is optimised with automation for a quick disinfection cycle. It operates on 15 Ampere, 220 Volts, 50-hertz power supply. The dimensions of an Industrial Cabinet to disinfect large quantities at a time are 7’x4’x3.25’. Different sizes will be available soon.

DRDO develops 'Ultra Swachh' to disinfect wide range of materials including PPE kits

India has recorded 8171 new coronavirus cases in the last 24-hours, taking India's overall tally to more than 198,700. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: India has a coronavirus testing facility in every state and UT, says ICMR

India has been locked in a standoff at the border with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/border-situation-with-india-stable-and-controllable-china-302437">China</a> for over 25 days with the situation still precarious.

However, there are no signs of de-escalation yet but, a new report claims that both sides are stepping up their guard.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-tensions-prevail-at-india-china-border-india-china-border-standoff-302491/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to a PTI report, both India and China are now moving in heavy equipment and weaponry. It includes artillery and combat vehicles which allegedly is being moved to the rear bases that are close to the disputed areas in eastern Ladakh.

It comes at a time when both sides are engaging both militarily and diplomatically to resolve the stand-off. So far, India hasn't said much on the crisis but, over the weekend defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke out.

Rajnath Singh said face-offs have happened before, but this time it's different. India's defence minister said the Chinese troops have "come in a little farther that usual this time" but beyond that India hasn't said much.

Beijing is not talking either but, the same cannot be said about its press. The Global Times has been engaging in sabre rattling. The Global Times has been putting out more reports that New Delhi won't be too happy to see with the state-run media saying yet again that the Galwan Valley falls in Chinese territory.

It says China has amassed high altitude weapons. The piece claims that the PLA expanded its firepower after the Doklam stand-off. It has a list of weaponry with tanks, helicopters, drones and howitzers. Some of the equipment was showcased at China's National Day military parade on October 1 last year.

China's state mouthpiece has been boasting about PLA's firepower at a time when its forces have invaded Indian territory&nbsp; 
while the piece doesn't say the advanced defence equipment has been deployed at the border.

It does indicate that it can be operationalised swiftly, such reports send a message that China won't back down from its territorial claims.

Beijing has acted forcefully to defend its territorial claims as recent events prove. The world has been consumed by the coronavirus. &nbsp;

The PLA in recent weeks was behind the sinking of a Vietnamese fishing boat in the South China Sea, it harrassed a Malaysian offshore oli rig and moved around Taiwan's waters. On the ground, China has asserted itself on Hong Kong. It cleared the national security bill last week that would allow Beijing greater control over the region.

China is also working with Pakistan to leverage the crisis. Recently, it agreed to help Pakistan build a dam in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) and now its border provocations in Ladakh are only needling India further.

India has been locked in a standoff at the border with China for over 25 days with the situation still precarious. However, there are no signs of de-escalation yet but, a new report claims that both sides are stepping up their guard.

India has been locked in a standoff at the border with China for over 25 days with the situation still precarious. However, there are no signs of de-escalation yet but, a new report claims that both sides are stepping up their guard. According to a PTI report, both India and China are now moving in heavy equipment and weaponry. It includes artillery and combat vehicles which allegedly is being moved to the rear bases that are close to the disputed areas in eastern Ladakh. It comes at a time when both sides are engaging both militarily and diplomatically to resolve the stand-off. So far, India hasn't said much on the crisis but, over the weekend defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke out. Rajnath Singh said face-offs have happened before, but this time it's different. India's defence minister said the Chinese troops have "come in a little farther that usual this time" but beyond that India hasn't said much. Beijing is not talking either but, the same cannot be said about its press. The Global Times has been engaging in sabre rattling. The Global Times has been putting out more reports that New Delhi won't be too happy to see with the state-run media saying yet again that the Galwan Valley falls in Chinese territory. It says China has amassed high altitude weapons. The piece claims that the PLA expanded its firepower after the Doklam stand-off. It has a list of weaponry with tanks, helicopters, drones and howitzers. Some of the equipment was showcased at China's National Day military parade on October 1 last year. China's state mouthpiece has been boasting about PLA's firepower at a time when its forces have invaded Indian territory while the piece doesn't say the advanced defence equipment has been deployed at the border. It does indicate that it can be operationalised swiftly, such reports send a message that China won't back down from its territorial claims. Beijing has acted forcefully to defend its territorial claims as recent events prove. The world has been consumed by the coronavirus. The PLA in recent weeks was behind the sinking of a Vietnamese fishing boat in the South China Sea, it harrassed a Malaysian offshore oli rig and moved around Taiwan's waters. On the ground, China has asserted itself on Hong Kong. It cleared the national security bill last week that would allow Beijing greater control over the region. China is also working with Pakistan to leverage the crisis. Recently, it agreed to help Pakistan build a dam in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(POK) and now its border provocations in Ladakh are only needling India further.

China's Global Times boasts about PLA's firepower amid standoff at India border

Delhi lieutenant governor Anil Baijal has approved the premature release of Jessica Lal murder case&nbsp;convict Manu Sharma, who is serving a life sentence.

The Delhi Sentence Review Board (SRB) which comes under the Delhi government had recommended Sharma's premature release last month.

The sources said the recommendation was made at a meeting of the SRB chaired by Delhi Home Minister Satyendar Jain on May 11.

Sharma, son of former Union minister Venod Sharma, was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the Delhi High Court in December 2006 for the killing of Jessica Lal in 1999.

A trial court had acquitted him, but the high court reversed the order and the Supreme Court later upheld his life sentence in April 2010.

Lal was shot dead by Sharma after she had refused to serve him liquor at the Tamarind Court restaurant owned by socialite Bina Ramani at Qutub Colonnade in south Delhi's Mehrauli area on the night of April 30, 1999.

Delhi lieutenant governor Anil Baijal has approved the premature release of Jessica Lal murder case convict Manu Sharma, who is serving a life sentence. The Delhi Sentence Review Board (SRB) which comes under the Delhi government had recommended Sharma's premature release last month.

Delhi lieutenant governor Anil Baijal has approved the premature release of Jessica Lal murder case convict Manu Sharma, who is serving a life sentence. The Delhi Sentence Review Board (SRB) which comes under the Delhi government had recommended Sharma's premature release last month. The sources said the recommendation was made at a meeting of the SRB chaired by Delhi Home Minister Satyendar Jain on May 11. Sharma, son of former Union minister Venod Sharma, was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the Delhi High Court in December 2006 for the killing of Jessica Lal in 1999. A trial court had acquitted him, but the high court reversed the order and the Supreme Court later upheld his life sentence in April 2010. Lal was shot dead by Sharma after she had refused to serve him liquor at the Tamarind Court restaurant owned by socialite Bina Ramani at Qutub Colonnade in south Delhi's Mehrauli area on the night of April 30, 1999.

Delhi LG Anil Baijal approves release of Manu Sharma in Jessica Lal murder case

The India-Australia virtual summit is three-days away. The two countries will be discussing defence, maritime cooperation and WHO.

However, food is everywhere with samosas or SCO-mosas as christened by PM Scott Morrison being the hot topic of discussion in Canberra.&nbsp;

The Australian prime minister made them from scratch and served the triangular beauties with desi mango chutney. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thought they looked delicious.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sunday ScoMosas with mango chutney, all made from scratch - including the chutney! A pity my meeting with <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> this week is by videolink. They’re vegetarian, I would have liked to share them with him. <a href="https://t.co/Sj7y4Migu9">pic.twitter.com/Sj7y4Migu9</a>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1266952463464071171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 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>

This is food diplomacy and the recipe is simple - break bread together for a better tomorrow and use food to win over your counterpart!

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-do-scomosas-tell-us-about-food-diplomacy-302490/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Butter thy counterpart, chop out the differences and sweeten the ties between the two countries. Food diplomacy has been tried and tasted over the years. It's a dish best served warm. Desserts are an exception.&nbsp;

In August 2019, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were seen getting ice-cream. Erdogan was in Russia for the inauguration of an international air show. He and Putin decided to cool the summer heat with frozen dessert,

In 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping was in Vladivostok for an economic forum. He and Putin took time off to show off their cooking skills. The duo donned blue aprons, on the menu were pancakes topped with caviar, vodka and diplomacy.

In June that year, the two were seen picking Chinese recipes in Shanghai. In 2016, Xi shared a beer with then British PM David Cameron. The two also bonded over fish and chips at a British pub.&nbsp;

Food diplomacy is like lasagne, there are layers to it. The beer order may look hasty, but there is a story behind it. 
When it comes to food diplomacy, the menu is carefully curated. It needs to be unifying and suit the taste of both countries.&nbsp;

Sample this: The menu for the White House state dinner in honour of French President Emmanuel Macron. It was&nbsp;marble cake diplomacy - the best of both worlds.

When South Korean President Moon Jae-in hosted North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un in 2018, the latter was served Swiss rosti&nbsp;because Kim spent his school years in Switzerland.

In food diplomacy, personal stories are often whipped in for additional flavour but hand-picked dishes do not always go down too well. In 1992, US President George HW Bush made history. He was the first sitting president to vomit on the prime minister of Japan. The menu at the state dinner in Tokyo may have been too fishy!

Bush was served raw salmon with caviar! They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. There's no proof but world leaders have been betting on this for decades now.

The India-Australia virtual summit is three-days away. The two countries will be discussing defence, maritime cooperation and WHO. However, food is everywhere with samosas or SCO-mosas as christened by PM Scott Morrison being the hot topic of discussion in Canberra.

The India-Australia virtual summit is three-days away. The two countries will be discussing defence, maritime cooperation and WHO. However, food is everywhere with samosas or SCO-mosas as christened by PM Scott Morrison being the hot topic of discussion in Canberra. The Australian prime minister made them from scratch and served the triangular beauties with desi mango chutney. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thought they looked delicious. Sunday ScoMosas with mango chutney, all made from scratch - including the chutney! A pity my meeting with @narendramodi this week is by videolink. They’re vegetarian, I would have liked to share them with him. pic.twitter.com/Sj7y4Migu9 — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) May 31, 2020 × This is food diplomacy and the recipe is simple - break bread together for a better tomorrow and use food to win over your counterpart! Butter thy counterpart, chop out the differences and sweeten the ties between the two countries. Food diplomacy has been tried and tasted over the years. It's a dish best served warm. Desserts are an exception. In August 2019, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were seen getting ice-cream. Erdogan was in Russia for the inauguration of an international air show. He and Putin decided to cool the summer heat with frozen dessert, In 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping was in Vladivostok for an economic forum. He and Putin took time off to show off their cooking skills. The duo donned blue aprons, on the menu were pancakes topped with caviar, vodka and diplomacy. In June that year, the two were seen picking Chinese recipes in Shanghai. In 2016, Xi shared a beer with then British PM David Cameron. The two also bonded over fish and chips at a British pub. Food diplomacy is like lasagne, there are layers to it. The beer order may look hasty, but there is a story behind it. When it comes to food diplomacy, the menu is carefully curated. It needs to be unifying and suit the taste of both countries. Sample this: The menu for the White House state dinner in honour of French President Emmanuel Macron. It was marble cake diplomacy - the best of both worlds. When South Korean President Moon Jae-in hosted North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un in 2018, the latter was served Swiss rosti because Kim spent his school years in Switzerland. In food diplomacy, personal stories are often whipped in for additional flavour but hand-picked dishes do not always go down too well. In 1992, US President George HW Bush made history. He was the first sitting president to vomit on the prime minister of Japan. The menu at the state dinner in Tokyo may have been too fishy! Bush was served raw salmon with caviar! They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. There's no proof but world leaders have been betting on this for decades now.

ScoMosas: Australian PM Scott Morrison engages in food diplomacy with PM Modi

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy. The noble initiative of a Chennai-based entrepreneur to fly seven of his migrant workers back home is winning hearts. The group of workers have not only been flown home at his expense, but they were also paid their salaries during the lockdown, despite the business being closed owing to the situation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/work-from-home-the-new-normal-companies-offer-furniture-gadget-allowance-to-employees-302556" hreflang="en">Work from home the new normal: Companies offer furniture, gadget allowance to employees</a>

Jain Packers and Movers in Chennai was badly hit after the pan-India lockdown was imposed in late March and their work came to a standstill. But the company has been supporting their staff (mostly unskilled laborers) throughout the lockdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“April-May is the peak season for our business and the lockdown happened, but our workers were stuck in Chennai, away from their families. Initially, two members took the&nbsp;&nbsp;Shramik Special trains back home. However, on hearing about their unpleasant journey, we decided to book flight tickets for the rest of them”, Sandeep Jain told WION.

During the lockdown, we were accommodated in an apartment near their office and provided the essentials and paid salaries on time, said the Manager Sanjay Kumar. “Our owner took care of all our expenses and needs during the lockdown and no he has also flown us back home. He even dropped us at the Chennai airport in his own vehicle. We took the flight Monday morning flight, landed in Varanasi by noon and reached home in Prayagraj by night, we are so relieved to see our families after a long time” Sanjay told WION.

The asked on what led him to book flight tickets for his workers, Sandeep jain said that, “they have come here believing us and these men have been with me since the time I started the business four years ago, this is the least we can do for them. When they called me after reaching home, taking their first flight, they were nearly speechless and their joy was palpable”.

The company plans to have their workers back only by late August or September, as the workers can find temporary work in the farms back in their villages after the rains. Sandeep adds that usually the workers come back only after two-month leave, but after he flew them back home, they have agreed to return as soon as the company wants them to.

“The plight of lakhs of workers is quite worrisome, it would be nice if we entrepreneurs can do our bit and help our workers and their families tide out of this crisis at the soonest. It might be a financial burden for us, especially when revenue has gone dry, but we must support them in whatever ways possible”, Sandeep added.

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy.

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy. The noble initiative of a Chennai-based entrepreneur to fly seven of his migrant workers back home is winning hearts. The group of workers have not only been flown home at his expense, but they were also paid their salaries during the lockdown, despite the business being closed owing to the situation. Also read: Work from home the new normal: Companies offer furniture, gadget allowance to employees Jain Packers and Movers in Chennai was badly hit after the pan-India lockdown was imposed in late March and their work came to a standstill. But the company has been supporting their staff (mostly unskilled laborers) throughout the lockdown. “April-May is the peak season for our business and the lockdown happened, but our workers were stuck in Chennai, away from their families. Initially, two members took the Shramik Special trains back home. However, on hearing about their unpleasant journey, we decided to book flight tickets for the rest of them”, Sandeep Jain told WION. During the lockdown, we were accommodated in an apartment near their office and provided the essentials and paid salaries on time, said the Manager Sanjay Kumar. “Our owner took care of all our expenses and needs during the lockdown and no he has also flown us back home. He even dropped us at the Chennai airport in his own vehicle. We took the flight Monday morning flight, landed in Varanasi by noon and reached home in Prayagraj by night, we are so relieved to see our families after a long time” Sanjay told WION. The asked on what led him to book flight tickets for his workers, Sandeep jain said that, “they have come here believing us and these men have been with me since the time I started the business four years ago, this is the least we can do for them. When they called me after reaching home, taking their first flight, they were nearly speechless and their joy was palpable”. The company plans to have their workers back only by late August or September, as the workers can find temporary work in the farms back in their villages after the rains. Sandeep adds that usually the workers come back only after two-month leave, but after he flew them back home, they have agreed to return as soon as the company wants them to. “The plight of lakhs of workers is quite worrisome, it would be nice if we entrepreneurs can do our bit and help our workers and their families tide out of this crisis at the soonest. It might be a financial burden for us, especially when revenue has gone dry, but we must support them in whatever ways possible”, Sandeep added.

Chennai-bizman flies his workers back home to Varanasi, leaves them speechless

Mumbai's Dharavi area reported 25 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-left-lockdown-behind-will-get-our-growth-back-says-pm-modi-302546">coronavirus</a> cases with the total number of cases in the area rising to 1,830 with the death toll rising to 71.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-fatality-rate-at-282-icmr-conducting-12-lakh-tests-daily-302637">Also Read:&nbsp;India's COVID-19 fatality rate at 2.82%, ICMR conducting 1.2 lakh tests daily</a>

The Uttar Pradesh government said on Tuesday that 348 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the state with total death toll climbing to 223.

The Uttar Pradesh government said 119 out of 450 samples of migrant labourers tested positive for coronavirus.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government allowed markets to open after the lockdown which had come into effect on March 25.

"The number of cases in Delhi are increasing, but there's no need to worry about medical care for coronavirus patients," Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, while adding, "there are total 302 ventilators are available in Delhi out of which 210 are vacant."

"If a hospital refuses to provide a bed even when our app shows beds are available in that hospital, then a person can call on 1031. Our special secretary will take an action immediately and contact the hospital authorities," the Delhi chief minister assured residents during a video call.

Uttarakhand reported 41 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases in the state rising to 999. The death toll due to coronavirus in the state has climbed to seven.

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Mumbai's Dharavi area reported 25 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases in the area rising to 1,830 with the death toll rising to 71. Also Read: India's COVID-19 fatality rate at 2.

Mumbai's Dharavi area reported 25 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases in the area rising to 1,830 with the death toll rising to 71. Also Read: India's COVID-19 fatality rate at 2.82%, ICMR conducting 1.2 lakh tests daily The Uttar Pradesh government said on Tuesday that 348 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the state with total death toll climbing to 223. The Uttar Pradesh government said 119 out of 450 samples of migrant labourers tested positive for coronavirus. Meanwhile, the Delhi government allowed markets to open after the lockdown which had come into effect on March 25. "The number of cases in Delhi are increasing, but there's no need to worry about medical care for coronavirus patients," Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said, while adding, "there are total 302 ventilators are available in Delhi out of which 210 are vacant." "If a hospital refuses to provide a bed even when our app shows beds are available in that hospital, then a person can call on 1031. Our special secretary will take an action immediately and contact the hospital authorities," the Delhi chief minister assured residents during a video call. Uttarakhand reported 41 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases in the state rising to 999. The death toll due to coronavirus in the state has climbed to seven.

Mumbai's Dharavi slum area reports 25 COVID-19 cases; markets open in Delhi

Sonam Wangchuk a Ladakhi engineer, innovator, and an education reformist who has also received Magsaysay award spoke to WION. Sonam Wangchuk recently made a video asking to boycott Chinese products and apps which went viral on social media.

WION exclusive with Sonam Wangchuk: India-China border dispute, Ban Chinese products

India's health ministry said that 73 per cent of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-198-lakh-mark-in-india-death-toll-at-5598-302533">coronavirus</a> deaths in India were from people with co-morbidities.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-india-records-8171-cases-204-deaths-in-last-24-hours-302547/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"10 per cent of India's population accounts for 50 per cent of India's coronavirus-linked deaths," health ministry official Lav Agrawal said.

The government said that the fatality rate in India due to coronavirus is 2.82 per cent which is one of the lowest in the world.

According to the health ministry, 95,527 coronavirus patients have recovered with the recovery rate being 48.07 per cent.

"We've been using indigenous platforms too for ramping up coronavirus testing capacity. Truenat screening and confirmatory tests have now been validated," the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) said.

The ICMR added that RNA extraction kits are now available in good numbers with RT-PCR kits by 11-12 indigenous vendors now in use.

India's research institute said 1,20,000 tests are being conducted everyday with 681 laboratories approved for conducting coronavirus tests with 476 in the government sector and 205 in the private sector.

(With ANI inputs)

India's health ministry said that 73 per cent of coronavirus deaths in India were from people with co-morbidities. Watch Video: "10 per cent of India's population accounts for 50 per cent of India's coronavirus-linked deaths," health ministry official Lav Agrawal said.

India's health ministry said that 73 per cent of coronavirus deaths in India were from people with co-morbidities. Watch Video: "10 per cent of India's population accounts for 50 per cent of India's coronavirus-linked deaths," health ministry official Lav Agrawal said. The government said that the fatality rate in India due to coronavirus is 2.82 per cent which is one of the lowest in the world. According to the health ministry, 95,527 coronavirus patients have recovered with the recovery rate being 48.07 per cent. "We've been using indigenous platforms too for ramping up coronavirus testing capacity. Truenat screening and confirmatory tests have now been validated," the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) said. The ICMR added that RNA extraction kits are now available in good numbers with RT-PCR kits by 11-12 indigenous vendors now in use. India's research institute said 1,20,000 tests are being conducted everyday with 681 laboratories approved for conducting coronavirus tests with 476 in the government sector and 205 in the private sector. (With ANI inputs)

COVID-19: India's fatality rate at 2.82%, ICMR conducting 1.2 lakh tests daily

India Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that deep depression in the Arabian Sea has intensified into&nbsp;cyclonic storm <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-on-red-alert-as-cyclone-nisarga-to-strike-pandemic-hit-city-302509">Nisarga</a> due to arrive in Maharashtra and Gujarat coast on June 3.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclones-before-amphan-that-wrecked-indias-coast-299747">In Pictures: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast</a>

The IMD said it is likely to turn into a 'severe cyclonic storm' by tonight.

Meanwhile, reports said 15 teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Maharashtra to counter the cyclone.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a message said: "Took stock of the situation in the wake of cyclone conditions in parts of India’s western coast. Praying for everyone’s well-being. I urge people to take all possible precautions and safety measures."

Officials said that 20,000 people from villages near Gujarat coast are to be evacuated ahead of the cyclone with people living in Valsad and Navsari districts being shifted to safer areas.

Amid reports of the cyclone, reports said &nbsp;13 boats of fishermen from Palghar are still out in the sea after over 570 left with authorities making efforts to get them back.&nbsp;

Most of all the boats are back, authorities said even as the Maharashtra and Gurajat government sounded alerts with Vasai, Dahanu and Palghar areas where most fishermen live put on high alert.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that deep depression in the Arabian Sea has intensified into cyclonic storm Nisarga due to arrive in Maharashtra and Gujarat coast on June 3.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that deep depression in the Arabian Sea has intensified into cyclonic storm Nisarga due to arrive in Maharashtra and Gujarat coast on June 3. In Pictures: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast The IMD said it is likely to turn into a 'severe cyclonic storm' by tonight. Meanwhile, reports said 15 teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Maharashtra to counter the cyclone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a message said: "Took stock of the situation in the wake of cyclone conditions in parts of India’s western coast. Praying for everyone’s well-being. I urge people to take all possible precautions and safety measures." Officials said that 20,000 people from villages near Gujarat coast are to be evacuated ahead of the cyclone with people living in Valsad and Navsari districts being shifted to safer areas. Amid reports of the cyclone, reports said 13 boats of fishermen from Palghar are still out in the sea after over 570 left with authorities making efforts to get them back. Most of all the boats are back, authorities said even as the Maharashtra and Gurajat government sounded alerts with Vasai, Dahanu and Palghar areas where most fishermen live put on high alert.

Gujarat evacuates several districts ahead of cyclone Nisarga

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has replaced the top leadership of the state unit. Actor-politician Manoj Tiwari has been replaced by Adesh Kumar Gupta as Delhi BJP president.JP Nadda appointed him on this post.

Gupta is a former mayor of the NDMC and Councillor from West Patel Nagar.&nbsp;

Tiwari was appointed the president of the BJP's Delhi unit in 2016. The decision to replace Tiwari comes a few months after the party lost the Delhi Assembly election to the Aam Aadmi Party.&nbsp;

After facing defeat in the Delhi assembly elections, it was revealed in the internal meeting of BJP that the votes of the Sikh and Punjabi community from Pakistan went to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).&nbsp;

However, Purvanchali voters in big numbers voted for the BJP in the Delhi assembly elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has replaced the top leadership of the state unit. Actor-politician Manoj Tiwari has been replaced by Adesh Kumar Gupta as Delhi BJP president.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has replaced the top leadership of the state unit. Actor-politician Manoj Tiwari has been replaced by Adesh Kumar Gupta as Delhi BJP president.JP Nadda appointed him on this post. Gupta is a former mayor of the NDMC and Councillor from West Patel Nagar. Tiwari was appointed the president of the BJP's Delhi unit in 2016. The decision to replace Tiwari comes a few months after the party lost the Delhi Assembly election to the Aam Aadmi Party. After facing defeat in the Delhi assembly elections, it was revealed in the internal meeting of BJP that the votes of the Sikh and Punjabi community from Pakistan went to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). However, Purvanchali voters in big numbers voted for the BJP in the Delhi assembly elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Actor-politician Manoj Tiwari replaced by Adesh Kumar Gupta as Delhi BJP president

A 30-year-old prisoner, who was out on parole from Thane Central Jail, has tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra's Palghar district, an official said on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-198-lakh-mark-in-india-death-toll-at-5598-302533" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598</a>

Following his release on Saturday, the patient had travelled to his sister's place in Wada and later proceeded to Jawhar, where he was not allowed to enter his village without a COVID-19 test, Palghar district civil surgeon Dr Kanchan Wanere said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-left-lockdown-behind-will-get-our-growth-back-says-pm-modi-302546" hreflang="en">India has left lockdown behind, will get our growth back, says PM Modi</a>

The patient was taken to a medical centre, where he tested positive for the deadly infection on Monday night, the official said.

The health department has so far traced eight of his contacts, including the police constable who had travelled with him to Wada in a bus and his sister's family, she said.

At least 888 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in Palghar district so far, of which 31 persons have succumbed to the infection, the official said.

A 30-year-old prisoner, who was out on parole from Thane Central Jail, has tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra's Palghar district, an official said on Tuesday.

A 30-year-old prisoner, who was out on parole from Thane Central Jail, has tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra's Palghar district, an official said on Tuesday. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 Following his release on Saturday, the patient had travelled to his sister's place in Wada and later proceeded to Jawhar, where he was not allowed to enter his village without a COVID-19 test, Palghar district civil surgeon Dr Kanchan Wanere said. Also read: India has left lockdown behind, will get our growth back, says PM Modi The patient was taken to a medical centre, where he tested positive for the deadly infection on Monday night, the official said. The health department has so far traced eight of his contacts, including the police constable who had travelled with him to Wada in a bus and his sister's family, she said. At least 888 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in Palghar district so far, of which 31 persons have succumbed to the infection, the official said.

Out on parole, prisoner tests positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra

With Gujarat bracing for the approaching cyclonic storm 'Nisarg', the Valsad and Navsari district administrations have started evacuating nearly 20,000 people from 47 villages located close to the state coastline, officials said on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-on-red-alert-as-cyclone-nisarga-to-strike-pandemic-hit-city-302509" hreflang="en">Mumbai on red alert as Cyclone Nisarga to strike pandemic-hit city</a>

Besides, in a relief to people living near the shore, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday indicated the cyclone may not make a landfall on the Gujarat coast.

However, it will have an impact in the form of gusty winds coupled with heavy rainfall in the coastal belt, state MeT centre director Jayanta Sarkar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-gujarat-on-alert-over-cyclonic-storm-nisarga-302417" hreflang="en">Maharashtra, Gujarat on alert over cyclonic storm Nisarga</a>

As a precautionary measure, the district administrations of Valsad and Navsari have started shifting people living near the coast to safer places.

In all, nearly 20,000 people will be shifted from both the districts.

"We have deployed our teams to shift nearly 10,000 people living in 35 coastal villages. We have already identified shelter homes and started the evacuation process," Valsad Collector R R Raval said.

In adjoining Navsari district also, the administration has initiated the process of shifting some 10,200 people from 12 villages, Collector Ardra Agarwal said.

As per an IMD release, the deep depression over east- central Arabian Sea is currently around 670 km from Surat and it may intensify into a cclonic storm in next six hours.

In the subsequent 12 hours, it will turn into a severe cyclonic storm and "cross north Maharashtra and adjoining south Gujarat coast between Harihareshwar and Daman, close to Alibaug of Maharashtra during the afternoon of June 3, with a maximum sustained wind speed of 100 to 110 kmph," it said.

"As per the present predictions, the cyclone will make a landfall near Alibaug, that is in between north Maharashtra and south Gujarat. Though the cyclone will not cross south Gujarat, it will leave its impact in the form of gusty winds and heavy rainfall in south Gujarat," said Sarkar.

As many as 14 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in the coastal region.

Five more teams will be airlifted from other states and reach here soon, a statement by NDRF said.

With Gujarat bracing for the approaching cyclonic storm 'Nisarg', the Valsad and Navsari district administrations have started evacuating nearly 20,000 people from 47 villages located close to the state coastline, officials said on Tuesday.

With Gujarat bracing for the approaching cyclonic storm 'Nisarg', the Valsad and Navsari district administrations have started evacuating nearly 20,000 people from 47 villages located close to the state coastline, officials said on Tuesday. Also read: Mumbai on red alert as Cyclone Nisarga to strike pandemic-hit city Besides, in a relief to people living near the shore, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday indicated the cyclone may not make a landfall on the Gujarat coast. However, it will have an impact in the form of gusty winds coupled with heavy rainfall in the coastal belt, state MeT centre director Jayanta Sarkar said. Also read: Maharashtra, Gujarat on alert over cyclonic storm Nisarga As a precautionary measure, the district administrations of Valsad and Navsari have started shifting people living near the coast to safer places. In all, nearly 20,000 people will be shifted from both the districts. "We have deployed our teams to shift nearly 10,000 people living in 35 coastal villages. We have already identified shelter homes and started the evacuation process," Valsad Collector R R Raval said. In adjoining Navsari district also, the administration has initiated the process of shifting some 10,200 people from 12 villages, Collector Ardra Agarwal said. As per an IMD release, the deep depression over east- central Arabian Sea is currently around 670 km from Surat and it may intensify into a cclonic storm in next six hours. In the subsequent 12 hours, it will turn into a severe cyclonic storm and "cross north Maharashtra and adjoining south Gujarat coast between Harihareshwar and Daman, close to Alibaug of Maharashtra during the afternoon of June 3, with a maximum sustained wind speed of 100 to 110 kmph," it said. "As per the present predictions, the cyclone will make a landfall near Alibaug, that is in between north Maharashtra and south Gujarat. Though the cyclone will not cross south Gujarat, it will leave its impact in the form of gusty winds and heavy rainfall in south Gujarat," said Sarkar. As many as 14 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in the coastal region. Five more teams will be airlifted from other states and reach here soon, a statement by NDRF said.

Ahead of cyclone, over 20,000 people to be evacuated from Gujarat districts

india-news

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

india news