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A terrorist was gunned down on Monday during an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-hizbul-commander-killed-in-encounter-at-doda-district-274478"> encounter with security forces</a> in Jammu and Kashmir.

The encounter broke out after the terrorists opened fire on a patrol team in Anantnag district of Kashmir.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-2-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-awantipora-276529">soldier of the Indian Army</a> was also injured in the encounter.

The security forces have cordoned off the area.&nbsp;

This comes just one day after two terrorists were gunned down in Awantipora district during an encounter with security forces.

On January 20, &nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir Police killed three dreaded terrorists, including a top commander of Hizbul Mujahideen.

"With the elimination of this group the fear among the public will wane away," the cop explained."Hizbul Mujahideen is on the verge of being completely wiped out in South Kashmir," J&amp;K DGP Dilbag Singh had told media after the encounter.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A terrorist was gunned down on Monday during an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. The encounter broke out after the terrorists opened fire on a patrol team in Anantnag district of Kashmir.

A terrorist was gunned down on Monday during an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. The encounter broke out after the terrorists opened fire on a patrol team in Anantnag district of Kashmir. A soldier of the Indian Army was also injured in the encounter. The security forces have cordoned off the area. This comes just one day after two terrorists were gunned down in Awantipora district during an encounter with security forces. On January 20, Jammu and Kashmir Police killed three dreaded terrorists, including a top commander of Hizbul Mujahideen. "With the elimination of this group the fear among the public will wane away," the cop explained."Hizbul Mujahideen is on the verge of being completely wiped out in South Kashmir," J&K DGP Dilbag Singh had told media after the encounter.

J&K: One terrorist gunned down in encounter with security forces; 1 soldier injured

Amid mounting concerns over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-japan-vow-to-fly-out-citizens-from-chinas-wuhan-as-coronavirus-spreads-276874">coronavirus epidemic</a>, the Indian government on Monday held a meeting in the national capital to review the preparedness to deal with the disease outbreak. During the meeting, chaired by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, possible steps to evacuate Indians in China's Wuhan city were also discussed.&nbsp;

According to the government statement, Ministry of External Affairs will make a request to the Chinese authorities for the evacuation of Indian nationals, mostly students, stuck in Wuhan city which is under lockdown after the coronavirus outbreak.

"It was decided that steps may be taken to prepare for a possible evacuation of Indian nationals in Wuhan. Accordingly, the Ministry of External Affairs will make a request to the Chinese authorities," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-trapped-plead-government-with-folded-hands-for-evacuating-them-from-wuhan-276854">Also read: Indian students plead Government with folded hands to evacuate them from Wuhan</a>

The ministry of civil aviation and ministry of health will make arrangements for transport and quarantine facilities respectively, the statement also said.

During the meeting, several&nbsp;precautionary measures were also discussed&nbsp;including screening of people at international ports having traffic from China as well as at the integrated check posts across the Nepal border.

As per reports, around 250 to 300 Indian students are reportedly stuck in Wuhan triggering concerns over their well-being.

The Health Ministry also held a meeting earlier on Monday with chief secretaries to review the preparedness and screening in five states having a border with Nepal.

So far 29,707 people from 137 flights have been screened across the country.

The Chinese city of Wuhan has been the epicentre of the 'coronavirus' outbreak. The fatal virus is spreading across the globe. It has claimed 80 lives and more than 2,744 have been infected. While 461 people are said to be in a critical situation.

The virus which is said could be spread through human contact has reached many countries. India has seen a few suspected cases of coronavirus as of now.

(With inputs from PTI)

Amid mounting concerns over coronavirus epidemic, the Indian government on Monday held a meeting in the national capital to review the preparedness to deal with the disease outbreak.

Amid mounting concerns over coronavirus epidemic, the Indian government on Monday held a meeting in the national capital to review the preparedness to deal with the disease outbreak. During the meeting, chaired by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, possible steps to evacuate Indians in China's Wuhan city were also discussed. According to the government statement, Ministry of External Affairs will make a request to the Chinese authorities for the evacuation of Indian nationals, mostly students, stuck in Wuhan city which is under lockdown after the coronavirus outbreak. "It was decided that steps may be taken to prepare for a possible evacuation of Indian nationals in Wuhan. Accordingly, the Ministry of External Affairs will make a request to the Chinese authorities," the statement said. Also read: Indian students plead Government with folded hands to evacuate them from Wuhan The ministry of civil aviation and ministry of health will make arrangements for transport and quarantine facilities respectively, the statement also said. During the meeting, several precautionary measures were also discussed including screening of people at international ports having traffic from China as well as at the integrated check posts across the Nepal border. As per reports, around 250 to 300 Indian students are reportedly stuck in Wuhan triggering concerns over their well-being. The Health Ministry also held a meeting earlier on Monday with chief secretaries to review the preparedness and screening in five states having a border with Nepal. So far 29,707 people from 137 flights have been screened across the country. The Chinese city of Wuhan has been the epicentre of the 'coronavirus' outbreak. The fatal virus is spreading across the globe. It has claimed 80 lives and more than 2,744 have been infected. While 461 people are said to be in a critical situation. The virus which is said could be spread through human contact has reached many countries. India has seen a few suspected cases of coronavirus as of now. (With inputs from PTI)

Coronavirus outbreak: Government holds meeting to discuss possible evacuation of Indians from Wuhan

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday.

He said a doctor, who returned to India after completing the MBBS course in China, was kept in isolation at the SMS Hospital here on the suspicion of being affected by a coronavirus.

Directions were given to conduct a screening of all the family members of the patient, he added.

In an official statement, the minister said a blood sample of the patient was sent to the National Virology Laboratory in Pune.

He added that a total of 18 people from four districts of the state had returned to the country from China and the respective district chiefs and medical officers were directed to keep them under surveillance for 28 days.

Sharma also urged the Union health minister to make the screening facility available at the international terminals of various airports in the country.

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday.

A suspected case of coronavirus has been reported in Rajasthan, following which the patient has been kept in isolation, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said on Sunday. He said a doctor, who returned to India after completing the MBBS course in China, was kept in isolation at the SMS Hospital here on the suspicion of being affected by a coronavirus. Directions were given to conduct a screening of all the family members of the patient, he added. In an official statement, the minister said a blood sample of the patient was sent to the National Virology Laboratory in Pune. He added that a total of 18 people from four districts of the state had returned to the country from China and the respective district chiefs and medical officers were directed to keep them under surveillance for 28 days. Sharma also urged the Union health minister to make the screening facility available at the international terminals of various airports in the country.

Suspected case of coronavirus reported in Rajasthan

The Finance Minister of India Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Budget on 1st February 2020. The Indian, as well as the global market, have great expectations from this budget.

Daniele Lacalle, Chief Economist speaks to WION over India Budget 2020

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) &amp; Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">Also Read:&nbsp;'Entirely internal matter'-&nbsp;India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA</a>

EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

The official position of EU is that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan while comments on CAA are known yet.

The spokesperson was aware that the CAA is being assessed by India's Supreme Court for its constitutionality, explaining, "It is important to recall that these texts are only drafts tabled by various political groups in the European Parliament".

Six resolutions from different parties will be taken by EU Parliament later this week on Kashmir and CAA for discussion and&nbsp;vote.

Backing the Brussels-New Delhi partnership the spokesperson said: "India is a key partner for the EU to address global challenges and to jointly promote the rule-based multilateral order."

The 15th India-EU summit will take place on March 13 for which PM Modi will travel to Brussels.&nbsp;

French diplomatic sources said, for "France, a founding member of the European Union, the Citizenship Amendment Act is India’s internal political matter" and "European Parliament is an institution independent of member states and the European Commission."

The EU mission in Delhi earlier in the day stated, “The European Parliament is an independent institution, sovereign in the organization of its work and in its deliberations" and "the text referred to are draft resolution by political groups in the EP.”

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) & Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner.

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) & Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner. Also Read: 'Entirely internal matter'- India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union." The official position of EU is that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan while comments on CAA are known yet. The spokesperson was aware that the CAA is being assessed by India's Supreme Court for its constitutionality, explaining, "It is important to recall that these texts are only drafts tabled by various political groups in the European Parliament". Six resolutions from different parties will be taken by EU Parliament later this week on Kashmir and CAA for discussion and vote. Backing the Brussels-New Delhi partnership the spokesperson said: "India is a key partner for the EU to address global challenges and to jointly promote the rule-based multilateral order." The 15th India-EU summit will take place on March 13 for which PM Modi will travel to Brussels. French diplomatic sources said, for "France, a founding member of the European Union, the Citizenship Amendment Act is India’s internal political matter" and "European Parliament is an institution independent of member states and the European Commission." The EU mission in Delhi earlier in the day stated, “The European Parliament is an independent institution, sovereign in the organization of its work and in its deliberations" and "the text referred to are draft resolution by political groups in the EP.”

Ahead of CAA, Kashmir resolutions in EU parliament, EU foreign office says doesn't reflect official position

A British court on Monday ordered that a luxury yacht owned by Force India Limited be sold and its proceeds be used to pay back Qatar National Bank to enforce its mortgage on the vessel.

During court proceedings, brought by the bank in the Admiralty Division of the High Court in England, it had been claimed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-adjourns-till-august-13-hearing-on-vijay-mallyas-plea-against-confiscation-of-properties-240124">liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya</a>'s son Siddharth Mallya was the ultimate beneficial owner of the yacht.

However, the bank said that without grappling with that issue, their claim was focused on recovering outstanding loan payments estimated at around Euro 6 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-agencies-and-banks-can-drive-anyone-to-despair-tweets-vijay-mallya-on-vg-siddharthas-death-239637">Also read: Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair, tweets Vijay Mallya on VG Siddhartha's death</a>

"Security for the loan,&nbsp;included a personal guarantee from Dr Mallya, an individual closely connected with the borrower,"&nbsp;notes the judgment handed down by Justice Nigel Teare in London on Monday.

"The sum claimed in this action in rem is Euro 5 million plus interest and the costs of 'collection' which the claimant is entitled to recover," it adds.

The judgment also takes note of the fact that the Defendant, listed as "the owner of the yacht Force India", chose not to appear at a scheduled trial earlier this month after its solicitors "came off the record" in November last.

The yacht itself remains under arrest in Southampton, a port on England's south coast, and court-appointed Admiralty Marshal Paul Farren will now proceed with organising the appraisement and sale of the vessel in order to recover the costs.

As part of the process, any other claimants to the proceeds of the sale will be given notice to register their claims within an advertised period of time over the next six-10 weeks.

A consortium of Indian banks, led by State Bank of India, are likely to be among those claimants as they pursue a separate bankruptcy order against Mallya over unpaid loans related to his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

"The court order today means the yacht must be sold and large sums of money be paid to the claimant (Qatar National Bank)," said Gideon Shirazi, the barrister who appeared on behalf of Qatar National Bank.

The yacht, described as a 49.9-meter Mangusta 165 superyacht, was owned by a company related to Gizmo Invest SA, whose ultimate beneficial owner is claimed to be 64-year-old Mallya, and Force India's ultimate beneficial owner is said to be his son, Sidharth.

Shirazi told the judge on Monday that an allegation made by the defence that there had been "undue influence"&nbsp;involved in the mortgage process for the yacht was removed at a later stage in the court proceedings, causing significant extra costs to Qatar National Bank.

The judge agreed it had been a "striking allegation"&nbsp;and granted the claimant costs on an indemnity basis.

Mallya, meanwhile, remains on bail on a warrant executed by Scotland Yard in April 2017 pending a High Court appeal next month against his extradition order to India, signed off by former UK home secretary Sajid Javid last year.

The former Kingfisher Airlines boss had won a reprieve in July last year when a two-judge panel at the Royal Courts of Justice in London granted him permission to appeal against the extradition order of Westminster Magistrates' Court to face fraud and money laundering charges amounting to Rs 9,000 crores in India.&nbsp;

A British court on Monday ordered that a luxury yacht owned by Force India Limited be sold and its proceeds be used to pay back Qatar National Bank to enforce its mortgage on the vessel.

A British court on Monday ordered that a luxury yacht owned by Force India Limited be sold and its proceeds be used to pay back Qatar National Bank to enforce its mortgage on the vessel. During court proceedings, brought by the bank in the Admiralty Division of the High Court in England, it had been claimed that liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya's son Siddharth Mallya was the ultimate beneficial owner of the yacht. However, the bank said that without grappling with that issue, their claim was focused on recovering outstanding loan payments estimated at around Euro 6 million. Also read: Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair, tweets Vijay Mallya on VG Siddhartha's death "Security for the loan, included a personal guarantee from Dr Mallya, an individual closely connected with the borrower," notes the judgment handed down by Justice Nigel Teare in London on Monday. "The sum claimed in this action in rem is Euro 5 million plus interest and the costs of 'collection' which the claimant is entitled to recover," it adds. The judgment also takes note of the fact that the Defendant, listed as "the owner of the yacht Force India", chose not to appear at a scheduled trial earlier this month after its solicitors "came off the record" in November last. The yacht itself remains under arrest in Southampton, a port on England's south coast, and court-appointed Admiralty Marshal Paul Farren will now proceed with organising the appraisement and sale of the vessel in order to recover the costs. As part of the process, any other claimants to the proceeds of the sale will be given notice to register their claims within an advertised period of time over the next six-10 weeks. A consortium of Indian banks, led by State Bank of India, are likely to be among those claimants as they pursue a separate bankruptcy order against Mallya over unpaid loans related to his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. "The court order today means the yacht must be sold and large sums of money be paid to the claimant (Qatar National Bank)," said Gideon Shirazi, the barrister who appeared on behalf of Qatar National Bank. The yacht, described as a 49.9-meter Mangusta 165 superyacht, was owned by a company related to Gizmo Invest SA, whose ultimate beneficial owner is claimed to be 64-year-old Mallya, and Force India's ultimate beneficial owner is said to be his son, Sidharth. Shirazi told the judge on Monday that an allegation made by the defence that there had been "undue influence" involved in the mortgage process for the yacht was removed at a later stage in the court proceedings, causing significant extra costs to Qatar National Bank. The judge agreed it had been a "striking allegation" and granted the claimant costs on an indemnity basis. Mallya, meanwhile, remains on bail on a warrant executed by Scotland Yard in April 2017 pending a High Court appeal next month against his extradition order to India, signed off by former UK home secretary Sajid Javid last year. The former Kingfisher Airlines boss had won a reprieve in July last year when a two-judge panel at the Royal Courts of Justice in London granted him permission to appeal against the extradition order of Westminster Magistrates' Court to face fraud and money laundering charges amounting to Rs 9,000 crores in India.

UK court orders sale of Force India yacht linked to Vijay Mallya

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday unearthed a link between the Popular Front of India (PFI) and the protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-stresses-equal-protection-under-indias-new-citizenship-law-276517">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> that have been raging on across the country.

An ED investigation, in which details of 73 bank accounts were probed, has revealed that the Kerala-based Islamic outfit has already spent Rs 134 crores on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-hearing-on-caa-no-stay-on-citizenship-act-apex-court-gives-centre-4-weeks-to-respond-275867">anti-CAA protests.</a>

The probe has further revealed that three NGOs including Rehab India Foundation, are also funding the PFI.

Although no official statement has been issued by the ED regarding the investigation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/despite-protests-citizenship-amendment-act-will-not-be-withdrawn-amit-shah-275742">Also read: Despite protests, Citizenship Amendment Act will not be withdrawn, says Amit Shah</a>

The funding is said to have been used to pick and drop protestors, provide them with food, accommodation and other facilities during protests including the Shaheed Bagh demonstration.&nbsp;

The latest report is part of the investigations which ED is carrying out since 2018 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The PFI was formed in 2006 in Kerala as a successor to the National Democratic Front (NDF).

Came into effect on January 10, the Citizenship Amendment Act seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from neighbouring Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Since the enactment of the Act, anti-CAA protests have erupted in parts of the country during which several clashes between police and protesters have taken place.

According to reports, at least 20 people have been killed in the anti-CAA protests.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court of India refused to grant an interim stay on the CAA&nbsp;without hearing the Central government. &nbsp;

The court&nbsp;ordered the Centre to file replies on all other CAA-related pleas (except those about Assam and Tripura) within four weeks.

The Apex Court said that it will take a look at the requests identified with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/today-in-history-from-first-auction-of-assam-tea-to-india-and-pakistan-sign-tashkent-agreement-and-more-273317">Assam&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crime-against-women-reduced-by-7-per-cent-in-new-govts-regime-in-tripura-law-minister-ratanlal-nath-271843">Tripura&nbsp;</a>diversely as both these states have separate concurrences with the Central government in regards to the safeguarding of local clans and ethnic individuals.

The top legal body has indicated making of Constitution Bench to hear all petitions challenging the Citizenship Amendment Act. The bench will work out the schedule for hearing the cases and take up the cases after 5 weeks to pass interim orders.

Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the law will not be scrapped irrespective of the protests.

"Whoever wants to protest against CAA is free to do so but this law will not be rolled back," Shah had asserted during a rally in Lucknow.

 
&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday unearthed a link between the Popular Front of India (PFI) and the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act that have been raging on across the country.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday unearthed a link between the Popular Front of India (PFI) and the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act that have been raging on across the country. An ED investigation, in which details of 73 bank accounts were probed, has revealed that the Kerala-based Islamic outfit has already spent Rs 134 crores on anti-CAA protests. The probe has further revealed that three NGOs including Rehab India Foundation, are also funding the PFI. Although no official statement has been issued by the ED regarding the investigation. Also read: Despite protests, Citizenship Amendment Act will not be withdrawn, says Amit Shah The funding is said to have been used to pick and drop protestors, provide them with food, accommodation and other facilities during protests including the Shaheed Bagh demonstration. The latest report is part of the investigations which ED is carrying out since 2018 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The PFI was formed in 2006 in Kerala as a successor to the National Democratic Front (NDF). Came into effect on January 10, the Citizenship Amendment Act seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from neighbouring Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Since the enactment of the Act, anti-CAA protests have erupted in parts of the country during which several clashes between police and protesters have taken place. According to reports, at least 20 people have been killed in the anti-CAA protests. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court of India refused to grant an interim stay on the CAA without hearing the Central government. The court ordered the Centre to file replies on all other CAA-related pleas (except those about Assam and Tripura) within four weeks. The Apex Court said that it will take a look at the requests identified with Assam and Tripura diversely as both these states have separate concurrences with the Central government in regards to the safeguarding of local clans and ethnic individuals. The top legal body has indicated making of Constitution Bench to hear all petitions challenging the Citizenship Amendment Act. The bench will work out the schedule for hearing the cases and take up the cases after 5 weeks to pass interim orders. Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the law will not be scrapped irrespective of the protests. "Whoever wants to protest against CAA is free to do so but this law will not be rolled back," Shah had asserted during a rally in Lucknow.

Enforcement Directorate investigation finds financial links between PFI and anti-CAA protests

The Chinese city of Wuhan has been the epicentre of the 'coronavirus' outbreak. The fatal virus is spreading across the globe. It has claimed 80 lives and more than 2,744 have been infected. 461 people are said to be in a critical situation. 
 
The virus which is said could be spread through human contact has reached many countries. India has seen a few suspected cases of coronavirus as of now. 
 
Recently a video resurfaced on the internet caught the attention of many. 
 
In the video, we could see three Indian students who pleaded the Indian Government with folded hands asking them to evacuate Indians stranded in Wuhan. They said all the markets have been closed, the city has gone into a total shutdown and they are running out of food reserves.

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Recently, the American Government has contacted Beijing in terms of evacuating Americans from the region and a sign for evacuation by the Indian Government is seen after the embassy has asked the Indian residents in China, who do not possess their passports at the moment, &nbsp;to share their passport number and to whom (Chinese Authority) has it been submitted/deposited.

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...passports are requested to intimate us with the following details: 
Name; 
Passport number; 
To whom (which Chinese authority) has the passport been submitted to; 
and Date on which the passport was submitted...
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1221699821930549248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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... These details may please be furnished urgently to Mr. Sondhi, who is an official with <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EOIBeijing</a> (WeChat ID: sondhi_0808)<a href="https://twitter.com/VikramMisri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VikramMisri</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SecySanjay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecySanjay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CPVIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CPVIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cgiguangzhou?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgiguangzhou</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaInShanghai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaInShanghai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CGIHongKong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CGIHongKong</a>
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1221699823444774913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nearly 700 Indian students are studying in Universities in Wuhan and its nearby areas. 
 
A majority of them are said to have left Wuhan during the Chinese New Year holidays a few weeks ago. 
 
Almost 300 students are still feared stuck in Wuhan. The Indian embassy in China has opened a third hotline number for these students.

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We have opened a third hotline-+8618610952903, 
+8618612083629, 
+8618612083617 
to respond to concerns. Please continue to follow us for further updates. <a href="https://twitter.com/CGIHongKong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CGIHongKong</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cgiguangzhou?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgiguangzhou</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaInShanghai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaInShanghai</a>
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1221352486314758145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indian Embassy in China has asked the Indians facing food shortage to contact, they tweeted "Indian nationals in Wuhan/Hubei province are urged to inform @EOIBeijing if they encounter a shortage of food, water and other essential supplies and provide us with the exact location so that @EOIBeijing could work with the Chinese authorities to ensure that such essential supplies are sustained."

The Chinese city of Wuhan has been the epicentre of the 'coronavirus' outbreak. The fatal virus is spreading across the globe. It has claimed 80 lives and more than 2,744 have been infected.

The Chinese city of Wuhan has been the epicentre of the 'coronavirus' outbreak. The fatal virus is spreading across the globe. It has claimed 80 lives and more than 2,744 have been infected. 461 people are said to be in a critical situation. The virus which is said could be spread through human contact has reached many countries. India has seen a few suspected cases of coronavirus as of now. Recently a video resurfaced on the internet caught the attention of many. In the video, we could see three Indian students who pleaded the Indian Government with folded hands asking them to evacuate Indians stranded in Wuhan. They said all the markets have been closed, the city has gone into a total shutdown and they are running out of food reserves. × Recently, the American Government has contacted Beijing in terms of evacuating Americans from the region and a sign for evacuation by the Indian Government is seen after the embassy has asked the Indian residents in China, who do not possess their passports at the moment, to share their passport number and to whom (Chinese Authority) has it been submitted/deposited. ...passports are requested to intimate us with the following details: Name; Passport number; To whom (which Chinese authority) has the passport been submitted to; and Date on which the passport was submitted... — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 27, 2020 × ... These details may please be furnished urgently to Mr. Sondhi, who is an official with @EOIBeijing (WeChat ID: sondhi_0808)@VikramMisri @MEAIndia @DrSJaishankar @SecySanjay @CPVIndia @cgiguangzhou @IndiaInShanghai @CGIHongKong — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 27, 2020 × Nearly 700 Indian students are studying in Universities in Wuhan and its nearby areas. A majority of them are said to have left Wuhan during the Chinese New Year holidays a few weeks ago. Almost 300 students are still feared stuck in Wuhan. The Indian embassy in China has opened a third hotline number for these students. We have opened a third hotline-+8618610952903, +8618612083629, +8618612083617 to respond to concerns. Please continue to follow us for further updates. @CGIHongKong @cgiguangzhou @IndiaInShanghai — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 26, 2020 × Indian Embassy in China has asked the Indians facing food shortage to contact, they tweeted "Indian nationals in Wuhan/Hubei province are urged to inform @EOIBeijing if they encounter a shortage of food, water and other essential supplies and provide us with the exact location so that @EOIBeijing could work with the Chinese authorities to ensure that such essential supplies are sustained."

Indian students plead Government with folded hands to evacuate them from Wuhan

Usha Chaumar is a sanitation activist&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dalit-outfits-call-for-bharat-bandh%2C-life-disrupted-across-north-india-127905">dalit </a>social worker from Alwar, Rajasthan who has won the <a href="wionews.com/india-news/padma-shree-award-winners-full-list-192818">Padma Shri</a> award this year.

But a little known fact about her is that she used to work as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/sewer-deaths-are-unacceptable-167757">manual scavenger</a> in the past.

She&nbsp;has faced&nbsp;discrimination and was&nbsp;marginalized from society due to being an '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dr-bhimrao-ambedkar-a-true-fighter-against-caste-discrimination-in-india-130372">untouchable</a>'.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-shree-award-winners-full-list-192818">Padma Shri award winners: Full list</a>

However, instead of getting demotivated and depressed due to the atrocities and adversities she faced, she decided to do something for the people who suffered from all of these things.

Her journey from a manual scavenger to a Padma Shri&nbsp;awardee is awe-inspiring.

Despite facing several ups and downs in her life, it was&nbsp;her dedication and determination to do something for the welfare of the dalit community and for the improvement of the sanitation conditions in the society that&nbsp;she emerged as a winner.

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After winning one of the country's fourth-highest civilian award, she said, "There is a drastic change in my life. Earlier, I used to work as a manual scavenger.

It was Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of Sulabh International, who helped me in coming out of that work."

She now works as the President of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-to-get-worlds-cheapest-clean-drinking-water-151754">Sulabh International Social Service Organisation,</a> has been honoured for her outstanding service in social work.

Talking about her journey, she says, "I never thought that I would ever be able to leave the work of manual scavenging, but Dr Pathak made that happen for me. I left manual scavenging in 2003".

"I met Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-fallen-soldiers-at-national-war-memorial-on-republic-day-276585">Narendra Modi</a> four times and I have also tied Rakhee to him. He is the one who has time and again raised awareness on the issue of cleanliness,'' she also said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-fallen-soldiers-at-national-war-memorial-on-republic-day-276585">PM Modi pays tribute to fallen soldiers at National War Memorial on Republic Day&nbsp;</a>

She now raises awareness against manual scavenging.

When asked what message she wants to give to other women, Chaumar said, "No one should do the work of manual scavenging, because it leads to untouchability and those who do this job are looked down by society."

"My family members are very happy with the award and they say that I have made entire Alwar proud," she added.

Usha Chaumar is a sanitation activist and dalit social worker from Alwar, Rajasthan who has won the Padma Shri award this year. But a little known fact about her is that she used to work as a manual scavenger in the past.

Usha Chaumar is a sanitation activist and dalit social worker from Alwar, Rajasthan who has won the Padma Shri award this year. But a little known fact about her is that she used to work as a manual scavenger in the past. She has faced discrimination and was marginalized from society due to being an 'untouchable'. Also read: Padma Shri award winners: Full list However, instead of getting demotivated and depressed due to the atrocities and adversities she faced, she decided to do something for the people who suffered from all of these things. Her journey from a manual scavenger to a Padma Shri awardee is awe-inspiring. Despite facing several ups and downs in her life, it was her dedication and determination to do something for the welfare of the dalit community and for the improvement of the sanitation conditions in the society that she emerged as a winner. After winning one of the country's fourth-highest civilian award, she said, "There is a drastic change in my life. Earlier, I used to work as a manual scavenger. It was Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of Sulabh International, who helped me in coming out of that work." She now works as the President of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, has been honoured for her outstanding service in social work. Talking about her journey, she says, "I never thought that I would ever be able to leave the work of manual scavenging, but Dr Pathak made that happen for me. I left manual scavenging in 2003". "I met Prime Minister Narendra Modi four times and I have also tied Rakhee to him. He is the one who has time and again raised awareness on the issue of cleanliness,'' she also said. Also read: PM Modi pays tribute to fallen soldiers at National War Memorial on Republic Day She now raises awareness against manual scavenging. When asked what message she wants to give to other women, Chaumar said, "No one should do the work of manual scavenging, because it leads to untouchability and those who do this job are looked down by society." "My family members are very happy with the award and they say that I have made entire Alwar proud," she added.

Inspirational journey of Usha Chaumar from manual scavenger to Padma Shri awardee

Republic Day is celebrated to honour the historic date when the country completed its transition towards becoming an independent republic after its constitution came into effect. This time India is celebrating it's 71st Republic Day. WION is covering exclusively all the aspects directly from Rajpath, showing you India's military might and cultural diversity

R-Day 2020: India's military might & cultural diversity on display

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a high-level meeting with the health ministry officials over the deadly coronavirus which has claimed 56 lives so far.&nbsp;

The Indian authorities have stepped up vigilance to control the spread and the Health Ministry has also set up a 24*7 call centre under the National entre for Disease Control (NCDC ). People can call + 91 - 11 - 23978046 to get any information about the mysterious virus and its symptoms.

The Health Ministry has extended its travel advisory to 12 more airports in addition to the 7 airports.&nbsp;

19 Indian airports are now thermal screening all those coming from China, reports said.

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Private doctors have been asked to alert authorities if they observe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-win-the-battle-against-coronavirus-epidemic-presidnet-xi-jinping-276528">symptoms of coronavirus</a> in any of their patients.

And all India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Delhi has prepared an isolation ward and separate beds for possible patients.

The Indian embassy in China has set up a hotline for Indians in China. An airport health office number has also been put out for those feeling sick on the return flight.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;in India, seven people have been placed under observation in hospitals in Kerala. Two persons in Mumbai and one person in Hyderabad and Bengaluru are being observed for possible exposure.

These 11 people under observation are among the passengers who returned from China recently and are hospital to check for possible <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-declares-coronavirus-emergency-halts-official-visits-to-mainland-china-276488">exposure to the virus</a>.

Officials have said that 20,844 passengers from 96 flights have been screened so far.

Meanwhile, India has requested China to permit Indians to leave from the city of Wuhan

More than 250 Indian students have been stuck in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak. The families of the students said that they were stranded with food supplies running out.

Most of the students did not manage to get out before the travel restrictions were put in place. The Indian embassy in Beijing has responded to the queries saying that they are in constant contact with the student community in Wuhan city.

There have been no cases of coronavirus reported in India till now.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a high-level meeting with the health ministry officials over the deadly coronavirus which has claimed 56 lives so far.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a high-level meeting with the health ministry officials over the deadly coronavirus which has claimed 56 lives so far. The Indian authorities have stepped up vigilance to control the spread and the Health Ministry has also set up a 24*7 call centre under the National entre for Disease Control (NCDC ). People can call + 91 - 11 - 23978046 to get any information about the mysterious virus and its symptoms. The Health Ministry has extended its travel advisory to 12 more airports in addition to the 7 airports. 19 Indian airports are now thermal screening all those coming from China, reports said. × Private doctors have been asked to alert authorities if they observe symptoms of coronavirus in any of their patients. And all India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Delhi has prepared an isolation ward and separate beds for possible patients. The Indian embassy in China has set up a hotline for Indians in China. An airport health office number has also been put out for those feeling sick on the return flight. Meanwhile, in India, seven people have been placed under observation in hospitals in Kerala. Two persons in Mumbai and one person in Hyderabad and Bengaluru are being observed for possible exposure. These 11 people under observation are among the passengers who returned from China recently and are hospital to check for possible exposure to the virus. Officials have said that 20,844 passengers from 96 flights have been screened so far. Meanwhile, India has requested China to permit Indians to leave from the city of Wuhan More than 250 Indian students have been stuck in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak. The families of the students said that they were stranded with food supplies running out. Most of the students did not manage to get out before the travel restrictions were put in place. The Indian embassy in Beijing has responded to the queries saying that they are in constant contact with the student community in Wuhan city. There have been no cases of coronavirus reported in India till now.

Indian government on high alert amid looming coronavirus threat

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day.

The protesters were kept away from getting too close to the High Commission building by a strong police presence, including mounted officers on patrol.

Hundreds waved flags and placards calling for "Khalistan 2020 Referendum" and "Free Kashmir"&nbsp;as they chanted slogans against the Indian government and the Indian Army.

The organisers, including Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK and Kashmir Solidarity Movement joined by some Sikh separatist outfits, gathered behind barricades set up opposite India House in Aldwych.

As a result of safety concerns raised by Indian High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam with UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pledge to provide a ?robust? policing plan, a large number of Metropolitan Police officers were on the scene to secure a parameter away from India House and prevent any violence.

"A proportionate policing plan is in place,"&nbsp;Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

A similar so-called ?Free Kashmir? march was banned from assembly outside the High Commission building on Diwali last October following an intervention from the UK Home Office, in the wake of violent clashes during protests to coincide with Indian Independence Day on August 15 last year.

Diaspora groups had been lobbying with the Met Police and London Mayor Sadiq Khan to avert a repeat of similar violent scenes.

"I understand why many British Indians are so deeply concerned about a repeat of those awful scenes. Many have felt deeply threatened and worried, and I would like to assure all Londoners that anyone who acts unlawfully on Sunday will be held fully accountable by the police,"&nbsp;said Sadiq Khan.

"The right to protest is an important and valued part of our democracy, but it must always be done peacefully and within the boundaries of the law,"&nbsp;he said.

Later on Sunday evening, the Indian Workers' Association Great Britain (IWA-GB), an 80-year-old diaspora group, has called a "Defend the Constitution"&nbsp;Republic Day meeting at Southall in west London to hold a discussion on the implications of CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).&nbsp;

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day.

Protesters from UK-based separatist and pro-Pakistani outfits assembled near the Indian High Commission in London on Sunday to observe a so-called ?Black Day? on India's Republic Day. The protesters were kept away from getting too close to the High Commission building by a strong police presence, including mounted officers on patrol. Hundreds waved flags and placards calling for "Khalistan 2020 Referendum" and "Free Kashmir" as they chanted slogans against the Indian government and the Indian Army. The organisers, including Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK and Kashmir Solidarity Movement joined by some Sikh separatist outfits, gathered behind barricades set up opposite India House in Aldwych. As a result of safety concerns raised by Indian High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam with UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pledge to provide a ?robust? policing plan, a large number of Metropolitan Police officers were on the scene to secure a parameter away from India House and prevent any violence. "A proportionate policing plan is in place," Metropolitan Police said in a statement. A similar so-called ?Free Kashmir? march was banned from assembly outside the High Commission building on Diwali last October following an intervention from the UK Home Office, in the wake of violent clashes during protests to coincide with Indian Independence Day on August 15 last year. Diaspora groups had been lobbying with the Met Police and London Mayor Sadiq Khan to avert a repeat of similar violent scenes. "I understand why many British Indians are so deeply concerned about a repeat of those awful scenes. Many have felt deeply threatened and worried, and I would like to assure all Londoners that anyone who acts unlawfully on Sunday will be held fully accountable by the police," said Sadiq Khan. "The right to protest is an important and valued part of our democracy, but it must always be done peacefully and within the boundaries of the law," he said. Later on Sunday evening, the Indian Workers' Association Great Britain (IWA-GB), an 80-year-old diaspora group, has called a "Defend the Constitution" Republic Day meeting at Southall in west London to hold a discussion on the implications of CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Pro-Pakistan, separatist groups stage anti-India protest in UK on Republic Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the nation in paying tributes to soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty, by laying a wreath at National War Memorial.

PM Modi pays tribute to martyrs at National War Memorial

Republic Day is celebrated to honour the historic date when the country completed its transition towards becoming an independent republic after its constitution came into effect.

India Celebrates 71st Republic Day, Brazilian Prez Jair Bolsonaro To Be Chief Guest

By Anshu Dubey

&nbsp;

“Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,”&nbsp;said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness.

Scully was told at the age of 21 that his kidney had failed and he was given three days to live. After a transplant, he went on to live for 30 years and at the time of his death was Ireland’s longest surviving kidney transplant recipient.

Indian-American entrepreneur Anil Srivats is one individual who changed his brother’s life by donating him a kidney back in 2014 - an event which changed his life for good.&nbsp;

Srivats started “Gift Of Life” Adventure - a series of overland expeditions aimed at spreading organ donation awareness. He hopes to encourage people to start a conversation on the subject. In an exclusive interview to WION, Srivats highlighted his vision and mission, his solutions for the standing issue and a message for people across the world on organ donation.

As he drove across 43 countries - being on the road for over 400 days and sharing his story with over 73,000 people - Srivats shared his experiences of living in his car and exploring some amazing events in this interview with us. Below are the excerpts from the interview:

WION: When was the first time you began this initiative? &nbsp;&nbsp;

Srivats: The first time was 6 months after my brother had the transplant. That was sometime in March 2015, when he and I went cycling to Spain to let people know that life can still be good after the transplant. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What was the major driving factor behind this initiative and the expedition?

Srivats: The idea was to let people know that after a kidney transplant life can be as normal or even as extraordinary as before. A lot of people I see are afraid. I gave my kidney to my brother and there are still over a million people in India who are looking for a kidney. My decision was based out of my love for my body. So the two questions I had with this whole thing was either there is not enough love or there is something else. That something else is common to everybody and that’s fear. They are afraid of what would happen to them if their life would be normal. There are not enough stories in the public media domain of live organ donors like us. You have plenty of stories of recipients. So there are not enough stories to show they are doing fine so others can have the courage and the confidence to do it. If I want to become the first story, I would like to add others’ stories, of people like me to my story and that’s how I started the foundation. Soon, I started to collect panel of speakers who are living with organ donors and hopefully we’ll start hearing their stories too. The fact that I started driving for this, allows me to get to the grassroots around the world and speak to people of all communities. Because I’m doing this, I also get the support and attention of the media around the world and my story goes out at a much larger scale. What I am doing is hard to do, but I enjoy it. Telling my story face to face to somebody is far more effective than shooting videos and putting it on social media. When I look into the whites of people’s eyes and them into mine, they are able to relate as I tell my story as a person who has actually done it, the impact is different. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What were your most unique experiences down the lane?

Srivats: Initially it was about crossing borders. Each border is different. What I have found is close to what Zee actually believes - Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam. Everywhere we’ve gone, 43 countries, people are generally good. There is so much good news in the world that we hardly see it on TV. Most of the people haven’t even heard about organ donation. There is so much to do in this space.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What solutions does India need where there is pendency for around 2 lakh kidneys and the availability is under 500?

Srivats: Indians are everywhere and we are probably the community that donates the least organs. I give you the statistics of England, 30 per cent of those waiting for an organ transplant are Indians in the UK because we have the highest susceptibility to kidney and liver failure because of our diet. If you look at the donor list in the UK, less than 4per cent are from the Indian subcontinent. There is an inherent problem as a community. India as a country has other issues, awareness is one of them. Two years ago I drove around India for 5 months. I was doing my 'Swades' moment and I found there is so much generosity in tier-2, tier-3 and rural India as compared to cities in India when it comes to organ donation. But unfortunately, there are not much collection or retrieval centres that they have access to. They want to donate but there is no place to donate. Infrastructure in India is the biggest issue and nobody is addressing this, otherwise, we would have solved this problem a long time ago had we just reached out and gone to their communities. The law in India is not easy, the infrastructure is not easy. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How do you fund your trips? &nbsp;&nbsp;

Srivats: I have sponsors, they take care of the hard costs, my travel. I live in my car, I cook in my car, I have a lot of my life in my car, so my car needs to be comfortable. My sponsors take care of that. But I still need to fuel the car, eat and stay in hotels once in a while when the weather is bad or when I feel it’s unsafe to stay in the car. That is crowd funded. I have fundraisers going on, even on Facebook. &nbsp;When I drive, I hold talks with schools, communities, senior centres, rotary clubs, I carry a hundi with me and people just contribute whatever they can and I use that money for fuel and food sometimes. It’s not easy but it’s a huge lesson in humility.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What kind of response do you mostly get?

Srivats: If I had to book a hall and sell tickets to people to come listen to me talk, I wouldn’t sell one ticket. So when I get into a captive audience where they insert me in an existing programme, not one person leaves the room because, obviously, my presentation skills have improved over time. I’ve done over 300 talks so I end up making people laugh like a standup comedian. &nbsp;But to get them in the room is really hard because the subject matter is not very interesting to anybody. We do not realise, we worship Lord Ganesha every year with huge pomp and show, he was the first recipient of an organ.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What is your message to people regarding organ donation? &nbsp; &nbsp;

Srivats: Organ donation is an act of love. It is something people need to consider for a couple of reasons. Even if we look at the way we conduct our last rites depending on our religion, some religions bury their bodies, some religions cremate and at the end of the day the basic premise of cremation is to put your body back in the universe - ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The Parsis put their bodies in the tower of silence, so even after death they can become food for the birds and be useful for the universe. Organ donation is no different, especially after we die. They're anyway doing things for our bodies to go back to the universe, so giving parts of our body to some human being who needs it is also part of the universe. So, the act of love has to come from inside and for that you need to get rid of the fear, because people are afraid for themselves and their next lives and they find a reason to say ‘no’ because they are afraid of something. If you are looking for a place in heaven, every religious scripture says “Jeevan daan hi sabse bada daan hai” (gift of life is the biggest gift possible). The only way to become an organ donor is to start a conversation at home. Signing up, especially in India is useless, because signing up is not legally recognized. I can sign up but the law gives my family the right to decide for me whether I want it or not. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Any country model that you see from where India can learn from?

Srivats: Unfortunately, India is learning the wrong things from every country. There are countries in Scandinavia and Europe and Ireland recently became an opt out country, which means every citizen of these countries is automatically an organ donor unless you opt out in writing that you don’t want to be and state the reason. This is because statistics have shown that people who opt out or people who opt in, the rate is the same. So you may as well make them organ donors by default as very few people will write in an opt-out. For a place like India where there are so many superstitious beliefs that are plaguing this humane act, if the law comes in place everybody will be forced to come on the way of humanity.

By Anshu Dubey “Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,” said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness.

By Anshu Dubey “Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,” said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness. Scully was told at the age of 21 that his kidney had failed and he was given three days to live. After a transplant, he went on to live for 30 years and at the time of his death was Ireland’s longest surviving kidney transplant recipient. Indian-American entrepreneur Anil Srivats is one individual who changed his brother’s life by donating him a kidney back in 2014 - an event which changed his life for good. Srivats started “Gift Of Life” Adventure - a series of overland expeditions aimed at spreading organ donation awareness. He hopes to encourage people to start a conversation on the subject. In an exclusive interview to WION, Srivats highlighted his vision and mission, his solutions for the standing issue and a message for people across the world on organ donation. As he drove across 43 countries - being on the road for over 400 days and sharing his story with over 73,000 people - Srivats shared his experiences of living in his car and exploring some amazing events in this interview with us. Below are the excerpts from the interview: WION: When was the first time you began this initiative? Srivats: The first time was 6 months after my brother had the transplant. That was sometime in March 2015, when he and I went cycling to Spain to let people know that life can still be good after the transplant. WION: What was the major driving factor behind this initiative and the expedition? Srivats: The idea was to let people know that after a kidney transplant life can be as normal or even as extraordinary as before. A lot of people I see are afraid. I gave my kidney to my brother and there are still over a million people in India who are looking for a kidney. My decision was based out of my love for my body. So the two questions I had with this whole thing was either there is not enough love or there is something else. That something else is common to everybody and that’s fear. They are afraid of what would happen to them if their life would be normal. There are not enough stories in the public media domain of live organ donors like us. You have plenty of stories of recipients. So there are not enough stories to show they are doing fine so others can have the courage and the confidence to do it. If I want to become the first story, I would like to add others’ stories, of people like me to my story and that’s how I started the foundation. Soon, I started to collect panel of speakers who are living with organ donors and hopefully we’ll start hearing their stories too. The fact that I started driving for this, allows me to get to the grassroots around the world and speak to people of all communities. Because I’m doing this, I also get the support and attention of the media around the world and my story goes out at a much larger scale. What I am doing is hard to do, but I enjoy it. Telling my story face to face to somebody is far more effective than shooting videos and putting it on social media. When I look into the whites of people’s eyes and them into mine, they are able to relate as I tell my story as a person who has actually done it, the impact is different. WION: What were your most unique experiences down the lane? Srivats: Initially it was about crossing borders. Each border is different. What I have found is close to what Zee actually believes - Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam. Everywhere we’ve gone, 43 countries, people are generally good. There is so much good news in the world that we hardly see it on TV. Most of the people haven’t even heard about organ donation. There is so much to do in this space. WION: What solutions does India need where there is pendency for around 2 lakh kidneys and the availability is under 500? Srivats: Indians are everywhere and we are probably the community that donates the least organs. I give you the statistics of England, 30 per cent of those waiting for an organ transplant are Indians in the UK because we have the highest susceptibility to kidney and liver failure because of our diet. If you look at the donor list in the UK, less than 4per cent are from the Indian subcontinent. There is an inherent problem as a community. India as a country has other issues, awareness is one of them. Two years ago I drove around India for 5 months. I was doing my 'Swades' moment and I found there is so much generosity in tier-2, tier-3 and rural India as compared to cities in India when it comes to organ donation. But unfortunately, there are not much collection or retrieval centres that they have access to. They want to donate but there is no place to donate. Infrastructure in India is the biggest issue and nobody is addressing this, otherwise, we would have solved this problem a long time ago had we just reached out and gone to their communities. The law in India is not easy, the infrastructure is not easy. WION: How do you fund your trips? Srivats: I have sponsors, they take care of the hard costs, my travel. I live in my car, I cook in my car, I have a lot of my life in my car, so my car needs to be comfortable. My sponsors take care of that. But I still need to fuel the car, eat and stay in hotels once in a while when the weather is bad or when I feel it’s unsafe to stay in the car. That is crowd funded. I have fundraisers going on, even on Facebook. When I drive, I hold talks with schools, communities, senior centres, rotary clubs, I carry a hundi with me and people just contribute whatever they can and I use that money for fuel and food sometimes. It’s not easy but it’s a huge lesson in humility. WION: What kind of response do you mostly get? Srivats: If I had to book a hall and sell tickets to people to come listen to me talk, I wouldn’t sell one ticket. So when I get into a captive audience where they insert me in an existing programme, not one person leaves the room because, obviously, my presentation skills have improved over time. I’ve done over 300 talks so I end up making people laugh like a standup comedian. But to get them in the room is really hard because the subject matter is not very interesting to anybody. We do not realise, we worship Lord Ganesha every year with huge pomp and show, he was the first recipient of an organ. WION: What is your message to people regarding organ donation? Srivats: Organ donation is an act of love. It is something people need to consider for a couple of reasons. Even if we look at the way we conduct our last rites depending on our religion, some religions bury their bodies, some religions cremate and at the end of the day the basic premise of cremation is to put your body back in the universe - ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The Parsis put their bodies in the tower of silence, so even after death they can become food for the birds and be useful for the universe. Organ donation is no different, especially after we die. They're anyway doing things for our bodies to go back to the universe, so giving parts of our body to some human being who needs it is also part of the universe. So, the act of love has to come from inside and for that you need to get rid of the fear, because people are afraid for themselves and their next lives and they find a reason to say ‘no’ because they are afraid of something. If you are looking for a place in heaven, every religious scripture says “Jeevan daan hi sabse bada daan hai” (gift of life is the biggest gift possible). The only way to become an organ donor is to start a conversation at home. Signing up, especially in India is useless, because signing up is not legally recognized. I can sign up but the law gives my family the right to decide for me whether I want it or not. WION: Any country model that you see from where India can learn from? Srivats: Unfortunately, India is learning the wrong things from every country. There are countries in Scandinavia and Europe and Ireland recently became an opt out country, which means every citizen of these countries is automatically an organ donor unless you opt out in writing that you don’t want to be and state the reason. This is because statistics have shown that people who opt out or people who opt in, the rate is the same. So you may as well make them organ donors by default as very few people will write in an opt-out. For a place like India where there are so many superstitious beliefs that are plaguing this humane act, if the law comes in place everybody will be forced to come on the way of humanity.

Indian-American entrepreneur travels across globe to promote organ donation, calls it 'act of love'

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province.

The death toll in the deadly new coronavirus in China rose to 56 on Sunday with confirmed cases of viral affliction reaching 2,008, including 23 from abroad.

The pneumonia outbreak was first reported in Wuhan City, central China's Hubei Province, in December 2019. The city of 11 million has been in quarantine since Thursday -- with nobody allowed to leave as the government tries to contain its spread.

Apart from Wuhan, 12 other cities have been completely sealed by the Chinese authorities to stop the virus from spreading.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-to-postpone-reopening-of-citys-kindergartens-schools-universities-report-276635">Beijing to postpone reopening of city's kindergartens, schools, universities</a>

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is closely monitoring the situation, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"We are also closely coordinating with Chinese authorities. As of now, we understand that no Indian citizens have been affected by the outbreak and that food and water supplies are available to them," Kumar tweeted.

He said the Indian Embassy in China has also made operational three helplines to respond to any concerns of Indians in that country.

"Our embassy in Beijing is in close touch with Indian citizens including students to extend assistance, including on possible travel options out of Hubei province," the MEA spokesperson said in another tweet.

He said the Indian embassy and Consulates General in China are working with Chinese authorities to try and facilitate Indian citizens caught up in these "difficult circumstances".

Earlier on Sunday, Jaishankar said the Indian Embassy in Beijing is constantly checking on the health and well-being of Indians in China.

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province.

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province. The death toll in the deadly new coronavirus in China rose to 56 on Sunday with confirmed cases of viral affliction reaching 2,008, including 23 from abroad. The pneumonia outbreak was first reported in Wuhan City, central China's Hubei Province, in December 2019. The city of 11 million has been in quarantine since Thursday -- with nobody allowed to leave as the government tries to contain its spread. Apart from Wuhan, 12 other cities have been completely sealed by the Chinese authorities to stop the virus from spreading. Also read: Beijing to postpone reopening of city's kindergartens, schools, universities External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is closely monitoring the situation, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. "We are also closely coordinating with Chinese authorities. As of now, we understand that no Indian citizens have been affected by the outbreak and that food and water supplies are available to them," Kumar tweeted. He said the Indian Embassy in China has also made operational three helplines to respond to any concerns of Indians in that country. "Our embassy in Beijing is in close touch with Indian citizens including students to extend assistance, including on possible travel options out of Hubei province," the MEA spokesperson said in another tweet. He said the Indian embassy and Consulates General in China are working with Chinese authorities to try and facilitate Indian citizens caught up in these "difficult circumstances". Earlier on Sunday, Jaishankar said the Indian Embassy in Beijing is constantly checking on the health and well-being of Indians in China.

As of now no Indian affected by coronavirus outbreak in China: MEA

Parts of north India shivered under cold conditions on Sunday with the weather department issuing a warning for heavy rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh even as there was some respite for Kashmir where the mercury continued its upward trend.

The minimum temperature in Delhi recorded a rise of around two notches from that on Saturday, settling at 6.9 degrees Celsius while the maximum was recorded at 22.7 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity oscillated between 100 per cent and 59 per cent.

Cold conditions persisted in Himachal Pradesh with the meteorological department issuing a yellow weather warning for heavy rain and snowfall in the state for Tuesday.

The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow, the least dangerous of all the weather warnings, indicates possibility of a severe weather.

Tribal district Lahaul-Spiti's administrative centre Keylong recorded the lowest temperature in the state at minus 9.3 degrees Celsius.

Kinnaur's Kalpa recorded a low of minus 5.6 degree Celsius and the minimum temperature in both Manali and Kufri was minus 0.8 degrees Celsius, he said, adding the minimum temperatures in Dalhousie and Shimla was 1.5 degrees Celsius and 3.8 degrees Celsius respectively.

Una recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 23 degrees Celsius, Singh said.

The weatherman has forecast rain and snowfall in middle and high hills of the state from January 27 to 29 and on January 31. It issued the yellow warning of heavy rain, snowfall for January 28 only.

However, residents of Kashmir Valley got respite from intense cold wave conditions, with the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir recording a minimum temperature of minus 0.2 degrees Celsius as against the previous night's minus 3 degrees Celsius.

Qazigund, the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 0.7 degrees Celsius, an increase of nearly six notches from the previous night's minus 6.4 degrees Celsius.

The night temperature in Pahalgam settled at a low of minus 3 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature in Kokernag was 2 degrees Celsius. The Valley might witness light rains or snow over the next three days.

A thick blanket of fog enveloped several places in Punjab and Haryana over which numbing cold maintained its grip, with Chandigarh, the joint capital of the two states, recording a minimum temperature of 7.1 degrees Celsius.

Adampur in Punjab was the coldest place in both the states as it registered its low at 2.3 degrees Celsius.

Both Amritsar and Ludhiana shivered at 5.1 degrees Celsius while Patiala recorded a low of 5.5 degrees Celsius. Pathankot, Halwara, Bathinda, Faridkot and Gurdaspur registered minimum temperatures at 6.5 degrees Celsius, 3.2 degrees Celsius, 3.6 degrees Celsius, 4.6 degrees Celsius and 7.3 degrees Celsius.

In Haryana, Ambala, Hisar and Karnal recorded cold weather conditions at 5.2 degrees Celsius, 4.8 degrees Celsius and 5.4 degrees Celsius respectively, up to three degrees below normal.

Dense fog was also witnessed in parts of Uttar Pradesh where Bahraich was the coldest place with the mercury dipping to 4.4 degrees Celsius.

Lucknow recorded a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 21 degrees Celsius. The meteorological department has forecast rains and thundershowers at many places in the state on Monday and Tuesday.

Rajasthan's Sikar shivered at 4.5 degrees Celsius, followed by Sriganganagar 6.5 degrees Celsius and Churu 6.8 degrees Celsius. The weatherman has predicted light rainfall in Jaipur and Bikaner divisions till tomorrow.

A cyclonic circulation over parts of Rajasthan and south Gujarat may cause light, unseasonal rains in Saurashtra region and in Vadodara district which may lead to rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3 degrees, followed by a gradual fall in minimum temperatures over another two days.

Naliya in Kutch district recorded the lowest minimum temperature in Gujarat at 10 degrees Celsius while Gandhinagar registered a low of 11 degrees Celsius, Keshod 11.6 degrees Celsius, Deesa 11.4 degrees Celsius and Ahmedabad 12.9 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Parts of north India shivered under cold conditions on Sunday with the weather department issuing a warning for heavy rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh even as there was some respite for Kashmir where the mercury continued its upward trend.

Parts of north India shivered under cold conditions on Sunday with the weather department issuing a warning for heavy rain and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh even as there was some respite for Kashmir where the mercury continued its upward trend. The minimum temperature in Delhi recorded a rise of around two notches from that on Saturday, settling at 6.9 degrees Celsius while the maximum was recorded at 22.7 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity oscillated between 100 per cent and 59 per cent. Cold conditions persisted in Himachal Pradesh with the meteorological department issuing a yellow weather warning for heavy rain and snowfall in the state for Tuesday. The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow, the least dangerous of all the weather warnings, indicates possibility of a severe weather. Tribal district Lahaul-Spiti's administrative centre Keylong recorded the lowest temperature in the state at minus 9.3 degrees Celsius. Kinnaur's Kalpa recorded a low of minus 5.6 degree Celsius and the minimum temperature in both Manali and Kufri was minus 0.8 degrees Celsius, he said, adding the minimum temperatures in Dalhousie and Shimla was 1.5 degrees Celsius and 3.8 degrees Celsius respectively. Una recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 23 degrees Celsius, Singh said. The weatherman has forecast rain and snowfall in middle and high hills of the state from January 27 to 29 and on January 31. It issued the yellow warning of heavy rain, snowfall for January 28 only. However, residents of Kashmir Valley got respite from intense cold wave conditions, with the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir recording a minimum temperature of minus 0.2 degrees Celsius as against the previous night's minus 3 degrees Celsius. Qazigund, the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 0.7 degrees Celsius, an increase of nearly six notches from the previous night's minus 6.4 degrees Celsius. The night temperature in Pahalgam settled at a low of minus 3 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature in Kokernag was 2 degrees Celsius. The Valley might witness light rains or snow over the next three days. A thick blanket of fog enveloped several places in Punjab and Haryana over which numbing cold maintained its grip, with Chandigarh, the joint capital of the two states, recording a minimum temperature of 7.1 degrees Celsius. Adampur in Punjab was the coldest place in both the states as it registered its low at 2.3 degrees Celsius. Both Amritsar and Ludhiana shivered at 5.1 degrees Celsius while Patiala recorded a low of 5.5 degrees Celsius. Pathankot, Halwara, Bathinda, Faridkot and Gurdaspur registered minimum temperatures at 6.5 degrees Celsius, 3.2 degrees Celsius, 3.6 degrees Celsius, 4.6 degrees Celsius and 7.3 degrees Celsius. In Haryana, Ambala, Hisar and Karnal recorded cold weather conditions at 5.2 degrees Celsius, 4.8 degrees Celsius and 5.4 degrees Celsius respectively, up to three degrees below normal. Dense fog was also witnessed in parts of Uttar Pradesh where Bahraich was the coldest place with the mercury dipping to 4.4 degrees Celsius. Lucknow recorded a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 21 degrees Celsius. The meteorological department has forecast rains and thundershowers at many places in the state on Monday and Tuesday. Rajasthan's Sikar shivered at 4.5 degrees Celsius, followed by Sriganganagar 6.5 degrees Celsius and Churu 6.8 degrees Celsius. The weatherman has predicted light rainfall in Jaipur and Bikaner divisions till tomorrow. A cyclonic circulation over parts of Rajasthan and south Gujarat may cause light, unseasonal rains in Saurashtra region and in Vadodara district which may lead to rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3 degrees, followed by a gradual fall in minimum temperatures over another two days. Naliya in Kutch district recorded the lowest minimum temperature in Gujarat at 10 degrees Celsius while Gandhinagar registered a low of 11 degrees Celsius, Keshod 11.6 degrees Celsius, Deesa 11.4 degrees Celsius and Ahmedabad 12.9 degrees Celsius.

Parts of north India in grip of cold conditions; heavy rain, snowfall forecast for Himachal Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his greetings to the people on the occasion of the 71st Republic Day. Prime minister took to Twitter to convey his greetings: Wishing everyone a happy Republic Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his greetings to the people on the occasion of the 71st Republic Day. Prime minister took to Twitter to convey his greetings: Wishing everyone a happy Republic Day. Greetings to all Indians on this occasion. Jai Hind!" Earlier on Saturday, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu greeted the nation. While Kovind invoked Mahatma Gandhi, Naidu reminded Indians of discharging Indians their conditional duties. Celebrations will be held all across the country to mark the day. Wishing everyone a happy #RepublicDay. सभी देशवासियों को गणतंत्र दिवस की बहुत-बहुत बधाई। जय हिंद! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2020 × On this day, 70-year back, India officially adopted its Constitution. The 90-minute Republic Day ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial near the India Gate. After paying tributes to the martyrs, the prime minister and others would head to the Rajpath. The parade for the Republic Day will begin on Rajpath with President Ram Nath Kovind unfurling the national flag with a 21-gun salute. Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro is the chief guest at the paradeIndia`s military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress will be displayed during the Republic Day celebrations. For the first time, a contingent of women bikers of CRPF will perform daredevil stunts. The Dhanush artillery will also be displayed for the first time during the Republic Day parade. (With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Modi greets nation on 71st Republic Day

On the eve of the 71st Republic Day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation at 6 pm on Sunday at the 61st edition of his monthly radio program 'Mann Ki Baat'.

Another Episode Of PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat on 71st Republic Day's Eve

Police in northern India on Sunday bid goodbye to the historic British-era bolt-action rifles after using them for one last salute during the annual Republic Day parade.

The Lee-Enfield .303 rifle was the main firearm of British colonial military forces and, despite being designated "obsolete" around 25 years ago, it has been the main weapon used by police in Uttar Pradesh state over seven decades.

The rifle -- used by the British during the two World Wars -- fires one shot at a time, after which the barrel needs to be reloaded by pulling the bolt.

"They have been in use since independence (from the British in 1947) and now they'll be replaced by INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) and SLRs (Self-Loading Rifles)," said police superintendent Amit Verma.&nbsp;

As many as 45,000 of the rifles were being used by the state police, Verma said, and the model was a favourite among constables due to accuracy and sturdiness.

"This (.303) rifle is a fantastic weapon and has served us brilliantly in various operations in the past," police additional director general Bijaya Kumar Maurya told AFP. &nbsp;

"But it being a bolt action weapon with low magazine capacity, it was time for a change. Itss production has also discontinued so there was all the more need for an upgrade."

Maurya said the new automatic rifles would "add to the confidence of our officers" and would result in improved policing.&nbsp;

"The criminals will naturally face the heat when they'll face officers armed with automatic weapons."

The rifles will be returned to a gun factory in Ishapore in West Bengal state where they will be converted into anti-riot guns, spokesman Saurabh Singh told AFP.

Saroj Kumar Mishra, a constable with the Uttar Pradesh police since 1982, said he would miss the heavy-duty rifle.

"The weapon is as smooth as butter even after 20 rounds of back-to-back firing," he was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times newspaper.

"This feature is perhaps the most important one which we often miss in the modern day weapons."

India on Sunday celebrated&nbsp;the anniversary of the adoption of its constitution in 1950.

Police in northern India on Sunday bid goodbye to the historic British-era bolt-action rifles after using them for one last salute during the annual Republic Day parade.

Police in northern India on Sunday bid goodbye to the historic British-era bolt-action rifles after using them for one last salute during the annual Republic Day parade. The Lee-Enfield .303 rifle was the main firearm of British colonial military forces and, despite being designated "obsolete" around 25 years ago, it has been the main weapon used by police in Uttar Pradesh state over seven decades. The rifle -- used by the British during the two World Wars -- fires one shot at a time, after which the barrel needs to be reloaded by pulling the bolt. "They have been in use since independence (from the British in 1947) and now they'll be replaced by INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) and SLRs (Self-Loading Rifles)," said police superintendent Amit Verma. As many as 45,000 of the rifles were being used by the state police, Verma said, and the model was a favourite among constables due to accuracy and sturdiness. "This (.303) rifle is a fantastic weapon and has served us brilliantly in various operations in the past," police additional director general Bijaya Kumar Maurya told AFP. "But it being a bolt action weapon with low magazine capacity, it was time for a change. Itss production has also discontinued so there was all the more need for an upgrade." Maurya said the new automatic rifles would "add to the confidence of our officers" and would result in improved policing. "The criminals will naturally face the heat when they'll face officers armed with automatic weapons." The rifles will be returned to a gun factory in Ishapore in West Bengal state where they will be converted into anti-riot guns, spokesman Saurabh Singh told AFP. Saroj Kumar Mishra, a constable with the Uttar Pradesh police since 1982, said he would miss the heavy-duty rifle. "The weapon is as smooth as butter even after 20 rounds of back-to-back firing," he was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times newspaper. "This feature is perhaps the most important one which we often miss in the modern day weapons." India on Sunday celebrated the anniversary of the adoption of its constitution in 1950.

On Republic Day, Indian Police decommission historic British-era rifles

India`s military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress was on full display during the 71st Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Rajpath on Sunday.

<img alt="India's cultural and military strengths" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df159b76-54c3-47f5-82d0-75b1254508cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%28100%29_0.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;India's military strength and&nbsp;cultural diversity at display during 71st Republic Day Parade (Courtesy: ANI) ]

Lieutenant General Asit Mistry led the parade on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/president-ram-nath-kovind-addresses-nation-ahead-of-republic-day-2020-276565">71st Republic Day</a> as Parade Commander. Major General Alok Kacker, Chief of Staff Delhi Area, was the second-in-command for the parade. General Officer Commanding Delhi area, Lt Gen Asit Mistry, had also led the Republic day parade last year.

The parade, which began at 10:00 am with the national salute, lasted for around 90 minutes and included a flypast by MI-17 and Rudra armed helicopters, display of latest weapons and equipments and sixteen marching contingents from the Armed Forces, Para-Military Forces, Delhi Police, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS) and thirteen Military bands.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-greets-nation-on-71st-republic-day-276579">Prime Minister Modi greets nation on 71st Republic Day</a>

As many as 22 tableaus of various states, union territories and government departments also moved past India Gate, followed by cultural items by school children and motorcycle display by an all-women team of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The winners of highest gallantry awards - Param Vir Chakra and Ashoka Chakra followed the parade commander.

The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy. The Ashok Chakra is awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but, other than, in the face of the enemy.

The first contingent in the uniform was of the erstwhile Gwalior Lancers, 61 Cavalry led by Captain Deepanshu Sheoran. Behind it was the first column in the Mechanised Columns - the Main Battle Tank of the Indian Army, T- 90 Bhishma, commanded by Captain Sunny Chahar of 86 Armoured Regiment.

The next detachment was of the Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) BMP-II led by Lieutenant Vijay Pal Singh Sra of the 18th Battalion, The Mechanised Infantry Regiment. BMP is a high mobility Infantry combat Vehicle with potent armament and state of the art night fighting capability. Thereafter, the next detachment was K-9 VAJRA-T commanded by Captain Abhinav Sahu of 269 Medium Regiment.

Following it was the next detachment of Dhanush Gun System commanded by Captain Mrigank Bhardwaj of 93 field regiment. The 155mm/45 Caliber Dhanush Gun System is a towed Howitzer which has been designed indigenously by the Ordnance Factory Board. And then came to the newly inducted 5 Metre Short Span Bridging System led by Captain Adhiraj Pathak of 234 Armoured Engineer Regiment and Sarvatra Bridge System commanded by Captain Anmol Preet Singh of 64 Assault Engineer Regiment.

<img alt="Akash weapon system, TTS displayed during R-day parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1518093f-ea78-4ca6-a032-eb7a56f563a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-26T160231.721.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Akash weapon system, TTS displayed during R-day parade (Courtesy: ANI) ]

The next detachment was of Transportable Satellite Terminal (TST). The TST vehicles of the Corps of Signals was led by Major Sheena Nayyar of the 21 Signal Group, followed by Akash weapon system commanded by Major Ankit Pahil and Captain Satyanarayana Madimi of 128 Air Defence Missile Regiment.

And then came the marching contingents - the first being the gallant Paratroopers of The Parachute Regiment. The contingent was led by Major Nikhil Kumar Maurya and was assisted by Major Tarun Rathi. This was followed by a contingent of The Grenadiers Regiment, the Sikh Light Infantry, Kumaon Regiment.

The next marching contingent was of the Corps of Signals which was led by Captain Tanya Shergil, a fourth-generation Army Officer. Marching for the first time on the Rajpath on the Republic Day was the marching contingent of the Corps of Army Air Defence, led by Capt Vikas Kumar Sahu of Army Air Defence Centre. The Naval tableau showcased the might and firepower of Navy in all three dimensions viz surface, sub-surface and air.

The Indian Air Force tableau showcased scaled-down models of the Rafale aircraft, the Tejas aircraft, the Light Combat Helicopter, the Akash Missiles System, and the Astra Missiles against a sky blue background. The smartly attired officers in their flying overalls stand alongside the models.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was represented by Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) - Mission Shakti and Air Defence Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR). Mission Shakti, India`s first Anti-Satellite (ASAT) mission, was a breakthrough in demonstrating our nation`s Anti-Satellite technology. Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the maiden successful test of its anti-satellite missile Shakti on 27th March 2019.

This was followed by contingents of para-military (Coast Guard, CRPF, ITBP, CISF) and other auxiliary civil forces. And shortly after this came, the tableaus of several states showcasing their traditions and culture truly representing India`s diversity. The tableau of Chhattisgarh showcased the artistic beauty of state`s folklife, while the tableau of the state of Tamil Nadu showcases the Folk Arts (Gramiya Kalai) of the Tamil people.

The tableau of Rajasthan depicted the architectural and cultural heritage of Jaipur while that of Himachal Pradesh showcased the fervour and festivity of world-famous International Kullu Dussehra festival. The tableau of Odisha state showcased the famous Rukuna Ratha Yatra of Lord Lingaraja, while the tableau of Gujarat depicted the theme of `Rani Ki Vav-JalMandir` representing the state`s art heritage.

The tableau of Uttar Pradesh mirrored not only the cultural and religious tourism of the state but also the state`s theme of "Sarva Dharma Samabhav" and the tableau of Punjab showcased the ideology of Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi went&nbsp;on Twitter to celebrate India's cultural diversity.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India’s diversity strengthens us. 
 
We are proud that so many cultures live happily in India. 
 
We saw some glimpses of India’s diversity during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> Parade today. <a href="https://t.co/N70mS2kAIX">pic.twitter.com/N70mS2kAIX</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1221367389125738496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The tableau of Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance depicts the wonderful achievements made in the area of financial inclusion in the country and that of Ministry of Jal Shakti underlined the Government`s new initiative `Jal Jeevan Mission` which aims at providing Functional Household Tap Connection to every rural household by 2024 - Har Ghar Jal.CPWD horticulture tableau`s theme was `Kashmir se Kanyakumari`-showed memorial of Swami Vivekananda Kanyakumari, a `Shikara` on the Dal lake and the Sanchi Stupa, Madhya PradeshThereafter came on a decorated jeep, the 49 children including 18 girls and 31 boys who have been honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puruskar, 2020 for their exceptional achievement.

The CRPF woman bikers showed their "dare-devilry" on Rajpath. Leading the Dare Devils in today`s Parade was their dynamic leader, Inspector Seema Nag, who was seen saluting smartly while standing atop a moving motorcycle.

And then began the finale - the fly-past. The main fly-past commenced with the `Trishul` formation, comprising of three ALH helicopters in `Vic` formation. The next formation comprised three Chinook helicopter flying in `Vic` formation at a speed of 180 km/h.The next formation flying in comprised of five state of the art precision attack Apache helicopters. The next formation comprised three Dornier aircraft flying in `Vic` formation.

Behind the `Dornier` formation was the Hercules formation, comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft in `Vic` formation. Behind the `Hercules` formation was the `Netra` the "Eye in the Sky" flanked by Su-30 MKI on each side.

Behind the `Netra` formation was the `Globe` formation, comprising three C-17 Globemaster flying in displaced trail Vic formation at a speed of 500 km/h. Five Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft, in `Arrowhead` formation were the next to fly past at a height of 300 m and a speed of 780 km/h.

Following the Jaguars were five MiG-29 Upgrade Air Superiority Fighters in `Arrowhead` formation. Then three Su-30 MKIs of the Indian Air Force executed the Trishul manoeuvre in front of you. The parade culminated with a lone Su-30 MKI flying at a speed of 900 km/hr split the sky with a `Vertical Charlie`.

Following this, The President`s Bodyguards arrived to escort the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the President of India Ram Nath Kovind. President of India Ram Nath Kovind and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-celebrates-71st-republic-day-brazilian-prez-jair-bolsonaro-to-be-chief-guest-276586">President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro</a>, who was the Chief Guest, left after the parade concluded.

At the end of the parade, tricolour balloons were released. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the crowd at Rajpath as the people cheered for him enthusiastically.&nbsp;

India`s military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress was on full display during the 71st Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Rajpath on Sunday.

India`s military might, cultural diversity, social and economic progress was on full display during the 71st Republic Day celebrations at the majestic Rajpath on Sunday. [ India's military strength and cultural diversity at display during 71st Republic Day Parade (Courtesy: ANI) ] Lieutenant General Asit Mistry led the parade on the occasion of 71st Republic Day as Parade Commander. Major General Alok Kacker, Chief of Staff Delhi Area, was the second-in-command for the parade. General Officer Commanding Delhi area, Lt Gen Asit Mistry, had also led the Republic day parade last year. The parade, which began at 10:00 am with the national salute, lasted for around 90 minutes and included a flypast by MI-17 and Rudra armed helicopters, display of latest weapons and equipments and sixteen marching contingents from the Armed Forces, Para-Military Forces, Delhi Police, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS) and thirteen Military bands. Also Read: Prime Minister Modi greets nation on 71st Republic Day As many as 22 tableaus of various states, union territories and government departments also moved past India Gate, followed by cultural items by school children and motorcycle display by an all-women team of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The winners of highest gallantry awards - Param Vir Chakra and Ashoka Chakra followed the parade commander. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy. The Ashok Chakra is awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but, other than, in the face of the enemy. The first contingent in the uniform was of the erstwhile Gwalior Lancers, 61 Cavalry led by Captain Deepanshu Sheoran. Behind it was the first column in the Mechanised Columns - the Main Battle Tank of the Indian Army, T- 90 Bhishma, commanded by Captain Sunny Chahar of 86 Armoured Regiment. The next detachment was of the Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) BMP-II led by Lieutenant Vijay Pal Singh Sra of the 18th Battalion, The Mechanised Infantry Regiment. BMP is a high mobility Infantry combat Vehicle with potent armament and state of the art night fighting capability. Thereafter, the next detachment was K-9 VAJRA-T commanded by Captain Abhinav Sahu of 269 Medium Regiment. Following it was the next detachment of Dhanush Gun System commanded by Captain Mrigank Bhardwaj of 93 field regiment. The 155mm/45 Caliber Dhanush Gun System is a towed Howitzer which has been designed indigenously by the Ordnance Factory Board. And then came to the newly inducted 5 Metre Short Span Bridging System led by Captain Adhiraj Pathak of 234 Armoured Engineer Regiment and Sarvatra Bridge System commanded by Captain Anmol Preet Singh of 64 Assault Engineer Regiment. [ Akash weapon system, TTS displayed during R-day parade (Courtesy: ANI) ] The next detachment was of Transportable Satellite Terminal (TST). The TST vehicles of the Corps of Signals was led by Major Sheena Nayyar of the 21 Signal Group, followed by Akash weapon system commanded by Major Ankit Pahil and Captain Satyanarayana Madimi of 128 Air Defence Missile Regiment. And then came the marching contingents - the first being the gallant Paratroopers of The Parachute Regiment. The contingent was led by Major Nikhil Kumar Maurya and was assisted by Major Tarun Rathi. This was followed by a contingent of The Grenadiers Regiment, the Sikh Light Infantry, Kumaon Regiment. The next marching contingent was of the Corps of Signals which was led by Captain Tanya Shergil, a fourth-generation Army Officer. Marching for the first time on the Rajpath on the Republic Day was the marching contingent of the Corps of Army Air Defence, led by Capt Vikas Kumar Sahu of Army Air Defence Centre. The Naval tableau showcased the might and firepower of Navy in all three dimensions viz surface, sub-surface and air. The Indian Air Force tableau showcased scaled-down models of the Rafale aircraft, the Tejas aircraft, the Light Combat Helicopter, the Akash Missiles System, and the Astra Missiles against a sky blue background. The smartly attired officers in their flying overalls stand alongside the models. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was represented by Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) - Mission Shakti and Air Defence Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR). Mission Shakti, India`s first Anti-Satellite (ASAT) mission, was a breakthrough in demonstrating our nation`s Anti-Satellite technology. Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the maiden successful test of its anti-satellite missile Shakti on 27th March 2019. This was followed by contingents of para-military (Coast Guard, CRPF, ITBP, CISF) and other auxiliary civil forces. And shortly after this came, the tableaus of several states showcasing their traditions and culture truly representing India`s diversity. The tableau of Chhattisgarh showcased the artistic beauty of state`s folklife, while the tableau of the state of Tamil Nadu showcases the Folk Arts (Gramiya Kalai) of the Tamil people. The tableau of Rajasthan depicted the architectural and cultural heritage of Jaipur while that of Himachal Pradesh showcased the fervour and festivity of world-famous International Kullu Dussehra festival. The tableau of Odisha state showcased the famous Rukuna Ratha Yatra of Lord Lingaraja, while the tableau of Gujarat depicted the theme of `Rani Ki Vav-JalMandir` representing the state`s art heritage. The tableau of Uttar Pradesh mirrored not only the cultural and religious tourism of the state but also the state`s theme of "Sarva Dharma Samabhav" and the tableau of Punjab showcased the ideology of Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev. Prime Minister Narendra Modi went on Twitter to celebrate India's cultural diversity. India’s diversity strengthens us. We are proud that so many cultures live happily in India. We saw some glimpses of India’s diversity during the #RepublicDay Parade today. pic.twitter.com/N70mS2kAIX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2020 × The tableau of Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance depicts the wonderful achievements made in the area of financial inclusion in the country and that of Ministry of Jal Shakti underlined the Government`s new initiative `Jal Jeevan Mission` which aims at providing Functional Household Tap Connection to every rural household by 2024 - Har Ghar Jal.CPWD horticulture tableau`s theme was `Kashmir se Kanyakumari`-showed memorial of Swami Vivekananda Kanyakumari, a `Shikara` on the Dal lake and the Sanchi Stupa, Madhya PradeshThereafter came on a decorated jeep, the 49 children including 18 girls and 31 boys who have been honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puruskar, 2020 for their exceptional achievement. The CRPF woman bikers showed their "dare-devilry" on Rajpath. Leading the Dare Devils in today`s Parade was their dynamic leader, Inspector Seema Nag, who was seen saluting smartly while standing atop a moving motorcycle. And then began the finale - the fly-past. The main fly-past commenced with the `Trishul` formation, comprising of three ALH helicopters in `Vic` formation. The next formation comprised three Chinook helicopter flying in `Vic` formation at a speed of 180 km/h.The next formation flying in comprised of five state of the art precision attack Apache helicopters. The next formation comprised three Dornier aircraft flying in `Vic` formation. Behind the `Dornier` formation was the Hercules formation, comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft in `Vic` formation. Behind the `Hercules` formation was the `Netra` the "Eye in the Sky" flanked by Su-30 MKI on each side. Behind the `Netra` formation was the `Globe` formation, comprising three C-17 Globemaster flying in displaced trail Vic formation at a speed of 500 km/h. Five Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft, in `Arrowhead` formation were the next to fly past at a height of 300 m and a speed of 780 km/h. Following the Jaguars were five MiG-29 Upgrade Air Superiority Fighters in `Arrowhead` formation. Then three Su-30 MKIs of the Indian Air Force executed the Trishul manoeuvre in front of you. The parade culminated with a lone Su-30 MKI flying at a speed of 900 km/hr split the sky with a `Vertical Charlie`. Following this, The President`s Bodyguards arrived to escort the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the President of India Ram Nath Kovind. President of India Ram Nath Kovind and President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro, who was the Chief Guest, left after the parade concluded. At the end of the parade, tricolour balloons were released. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the crowd at Rajpath as the people cheered for him enthusiastically.

India's military strength, cultural diversity at display during 71st Republic Day Parade

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation during his monthly radio programme 'Mann ki Baat' and wished everyone on the occasion of the 71st Republic Day.&nbsp;

From describing Gaganyaan mission as the new milestone for India and hailing the newly signed Bru refugee agreement, the prime minister talked on a range of issues during his radio address today.&nbsp;

As the prime minister began his address, he said that this edition of 'Mann ki Baat' will be dedicated to "discuss newer subjects to celebrate the latest achievements of our countrymen and to celebrate India".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-urges-people-to-take-up-task-to-uplift-poor-270835">Mann Ki Baat - Prime Minister Modi urges people to take up task to uplift poor</a>

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PM Modi in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a>: Next month, the first edition of 'Khelo India University Games' is being organized in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha from 22nd February to 1st March. And more than 3000 players have qualified for participating in these games.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1221416204457267201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi set the agenda for citizens for 2020 and announced that the first edition of Khelo India University Games will be organised next month in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha from February 22 to March 1.&nbsp;

"More than 3,000 players have qualified for participating in these games," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

"National games is an arena, where players get a chance to display their passion besides becoming acquainted with the culture of other states. Therefore, we've decided to organize 'Khelo India Games," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that the monthly radio programme has become a good and smooth platform of "sharing, learning and growing together".&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a>: Heartiest greetings to you all on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>. Today, we are here on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> to discuss newer subjects, to celebrate the latest achievements of our countrymen and to celebrate India. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/J2Q23UVEh5">pic.twitter.com/J2Q23UVEh5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1221413728765140993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Every month thousands of people share their suggestions, efforts, and experiences," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

PM Modi also talked about water conservation and said that the innovative idea of harnessing a borewell for rainwater harvesting sprung up from Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"The country is replete with innumerable such stories, of water conservation, lending more strength to the resolves of new India," he stated.&nbsp;

During his last 'Mann ki Baat' address last month, the prime minister urged the people to come together and take up the task of providing health services to the poor and make efforts to uplift them in the society.

"All of us study in myriad colleges, universities, and schools. But after completing studies, alumni meets are joyous occasions. If this union comprises a shared purpose, a resolve, an emotional connect, it lends additional hues to the event," said Prime Minister Modi in his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation during his monthly radio programme 'Mann ki Baat' and wished everyone on the occasion of the 71st Republic Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation during his monthly radio programme 'Mann ki Baat' and wished everyone on the occasion of the 71st Republic Day. From describing Gaganyaan mission as the new milestone for India and hailing the newly signed Bru refugee agreement, the prime minister talked on a range of issues during his radio address today. As the prime minister began his address, he said that this edition of 'Mann ki Baat' will be dedicated to "discuss newer subjects to celebrate the latest achievements of our countrymen and to celebrate India". Also read: Mann Ki Baat - Prime Minister Modi urges people to take up task to uplift poor PM Modi in #MannKiBaat: Next month, the first edition of 'Khelo India University Games' is being organized in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha from 22nd February to 1st March. And more than 3000 players have qualified for participating in these games. — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2020 × PM Modi set the agenda for citizens for 2020 and announced that the first edition of Khelo India University Games will be organised next month in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha from February 22 to March 1. "More than 3,000 players have qualified for participating in these games," the prime minister said. "National games is an arena, where players get a chance to display their passion besides becoming acquainted with the culture of other states. Therefore, we've decided to organize 'Khelo India Games," PM Modi said. He also said that the monthly radio programme has become a good and smooth platform of "sharing, learning and growing together". Prime Minister Narendra Modi in #MannKiBaat: Heartiest greetings to you all on the occasion of #RepublicDay. Today, we are here on #MannKiBaat to discuss newer subjects, to celebrate the latest achievements of our countrymen and to celebrate India. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/J2Q23UVEh5 — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2020 × "Every month thousands of people share their suggestions, efforts, and experiences," the prime minister said. PM Modi also talked about water conservation and said that the innovative idea of harnessing a borewell for rainwater harvesting sprung up from Tamil Nadu. "The country is replete with innumerable such stories, of water conservation, lending more strength to the resolves of new India," he stated. During his last 'Mann ki Baat' address last month, the prime minister urged the people to come together and take up the task of providing health services to the poor and make efforts to uplift them in the society. "All of us study in myriad colleges, universities, and schools. But after completing studies, alumni meets are joyous occasions. If this union comprises a shared purpose, a resolve, an emotional connect, it lends additional hues to the event," said Prime Minister Modi in his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.

This edition of Mann ki Baat is to celebrate latest achievements of countrymen, to celebrate India: PM Modi

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on January 25 reviewed India’s preparedness to deal with the outbreak of the new coronavirus (nCoV)

India steps up vigilance against nCoV

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to the fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the newly-built National War Memorial (NWM) at India Gate in the capital ahead of the 71st Republic Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to the fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the newly-built National War Memorial (NWM) at India Gate in the capital ahead of the 71st Republic Day celebrations. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the first-ever Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen Naravane, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh, Air Force Chief Air Marshal RKS Bhaduria received the prime minister at the war memorial. The NWM was inaugurated in February last year by PM Modi. The memorial was built in memory of the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country post-independence. After the Prime Minister laid the wreath, the Guard Commander gave Salami Shastra.Modi also wrote his message in the visitor`s book at the War Memorial. The Prime Minister and other dignitaries are now heading towards the saluting dais at the Rajpath, where he will be received for the Republic Day celebration. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi pays tribute to fallen soldiers at National War Memorial on Republic Day 

As India and Brazil signed 15 agreements, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Saturday said that both the countries together will make further strides among the world's 10 largest economies.

"We both have a relevant economic profile and together will make further great strides and in the ranks of world's 10 largest economies," said Bolsonaro at a joint press briefing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi by his side.

"As part of a bilateral visit, we may have signed many important agreements. By signing the highest number on record in our history, we have further consolidated our working bilateral relations with India," he added.

The Brazilian President also said that there is a lot of potential between India and Brazil and more matters of mutual interest will emerge between the two countries.

Bolsonaro further said that by entering into a major strategic partnership, both countries will consolidate their relations.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-brazil-ink-15-pacts-unveil-action-plan-to-broadbase-ties-276514">India, Brazil ink 15 pacts; unveil action plan to broadbase ties</a>

In the end, he made a light-hearted remark saying, "I must admit, I have two days to go back to Brazil but I already miss India even before leaving."

The Brazil President is currently on a four-day visit to India and will be the chief guest at the Republic Day Parade.

Earlier in the day, Bolsonaro received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister.

The Brazilian President also met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Bolsonaro's visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of agriculture, energy, and defence.

He is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising several ministers, senior officials, chairman of Brazil-India Friendship Group in the Brazilian Parliament and businessmen.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As India and Brazil signed 15 agreements, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Saturday said that both the countries together will make further strides among the world's 10 largest economies.

As India and Brazil signed 15 agreements, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Saturday said that both the countries together will make further strides among the world's 10 largest economies. "We both have a relevant economic profile and together will make further great strides and in the ranks of world's 10 largest economies," said Bolsonaro at a joint press briefing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi by his side. "As part of a bilateral visit, we may have signed many important agreements. By signing the highest number on record in our history, we have further consolidated our working bilateral relations with India," he added. The Brazilian President also said that there is a lot of potential between India and Brazil and more matters of mutual interest will emerge between the two countries. Bolsonaro further said that by entering into a major strategic partnership, both countries will consolidate their relations. Also read: India, Brazil ink 15 pacts; unveil action plan to broadbase ties In the end, he made a light-hearted remark saying, "I must admit, I have two days to go back to Brazil but I already miss India even before leaving." The Brazil President is currently on a four-day visit to India and will be the chief guest at the Republic Day Parade. Earlier in the day, Bolsonaro received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister. The Brazilian President also met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Bolsonaro's visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of agriculture, energy, and defence. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising several ministers, senior officials, chairman of Brazil-India Friendship Group in the Brazilian Parliament and businessmen.

India, Brazil will make great strides among world's 10 largest economies: Bolsonaro

The Padma Awards to be given on the occasion of Republic Day have been announced. Former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj are also named among those who received the Padma Vibhushan. PV Sindhu and Manohar Parrikar will be awarded by Padma Bhushan.

Padma Awards 2020 announced; Padma Vibhushan to 7 veterans, Padma Bhushan to 16 & Padma Shri to 118

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