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A special court in Delhi has accepted Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad.&nbsp;

Vadra has been granted anticipatory bail in a money laundering case, news agency ANI reported. Earlier this year in June, Vadra was allowed to travel abroad on medical grounds for six weeks by a special CBI court.&nbsp;

Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, had previously contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents.

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A special court in Delhi allows Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad. He has been granted anticipatory bail in a money laundering case. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/dhz5DowqMZ">pic.twitter.com/dhz5DowqMZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1172427952488734720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents.

Vadra is accused in a money laundering case and has been granted anticipatory bail.

He had been given protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of the court.

(With inputs from ANI)

A special court in Delhi has accepted Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad. Vadra has been granted anticipatory bail in a money laundering case, news agency ANI reported.

A special court in Delhi has accepted Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad. Vadra has been granted anticipatory bail in a money laundering case, news agency ANI reported. Earlier this year in June, Vadra was allowed to travel abroad on medical grounds for six weeks by a special CBI court. Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, had previously contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents. A special court in Delhi allows Robert Vadra's application seeking permission to travel abroad. He has been granted anticipatory bail in a money laundering case. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/dhz5DowqMZ — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2019 × Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents. Vadra is accused in a money laundering case and has been granted anticipatory bail. He had been given protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of the court. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi court allows Robert Vadra to travel abroad 

Minister of Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, on Friday said that he doesn't think there is any need to implement the 'odd-even'&nbsp;vehicular scheme in the national capital.

His reaction came after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the implementation of the scheme in Delhi in November to combat pollution.

"No, I don't think it is needed. Ring Road we built has significantly reduced pollution in the city and our planned schemes will free Delhi of pollution in the next 2 years. It's their (Delhi government's) decision if they want to implement it," he told media.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>:Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Odd-Even scheme says,"No I don't think it is needed.Ring Road we built has significantly reduced pollution in city&amp;our planned schemes will free Delhi of pollution in next 2 yrs. It's their (Delhi govt) decision if they want to implement it" <a href="https://t.co/mKlLIISpzX">pic.twitter.com/mKlLIISpzX</a>
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The scheme will be implemented from November 4 to November 15 in the national capital.

The flagship scheme of the AAP government, aimed at combating pollution, was first implemented in 2015.

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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal: Odd-Even vehicle scheme to be implemented from 4th to 15th November, 2019. <a href="https://t.co/qVmLChGHsd">pic.twitter.com/qVmLChGHsd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1172400008181645312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While making the announcement, Kejriwal said that smog from adjoining states due to the burning of stubble is the major cause of pollution in Delhi and odd-even is one among the slew of measures that Delhi government will take to deal with the problem.

"On 2 and 3 November, there is Saturday and Sunday. Odd-even will be implemented from November 4 to November 15. Studies show that it reduces pollution by 10-13 per cent," said Kejriwal.

The scheme entails cars with odd and even number plates to run on alternate days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Minister of Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, on Friday said that he doesn't think there is any need to implement the 'odd-even' vehicular scheme in the national capital.

Minister of Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, on Friday said that he doesn't think there is any need to implement the 'odd-even' vehicular scheme in the national capital. His reaction came after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the implementation of the scheme in Delhi in November to combat pollution. "No, I don't think it is needed. Ring Road we built has significantly reduced pollution in the city and our planned schemes will free Delhi of pollution in the next 2 years. It's their (Delhi government's) decision if they want to implement it," he told media. #WATCH:Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Odd-Even scheme says,"No I don't think it is needed.Ring Road we built has significantly reduced pollution in city&our planned schemes will free Delhi of pollution in next 2 yrs. It's their (Delhi govt) decision if they want to implement it" pic.twitter.com/mKlLIISpzX — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2019 × The scheme will be implemented from November 4 to November 15 in the national capital. The flagship scheme of the AAP government, aimed at combating pollution, was first implemented in 2015. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal: Odd-Even vehicle scheme to be implemented from 4th to 15th November, 2019. pic.twitter.com/qVmLChGHsd — ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2019 × While making the announcement, Kejriwal said that smog from adjoining states due to the burning of stubble is the major cause of pollution in Delhi and odd-even is one among the slew of measures that Delhi government will take to deal with the problem. "On 2 and 3 November, there is Saturday and Sunday. Odd-even will be implemented from November 4 to November 15. Studies show that it reduces pollution by 10-13 per cent," said Kejriwal. The scheme entails cars with odd and even number plates to run on alternate days. (With inputs from ANI)

I don't think 'odd-even' scheme is needed in Delhi: Nitin Gadkari 

Railway passengers from the city boarded the Delhi-Allahabad Duronto Express train for the final time as the train departed from Allahabad on its last run on Thursday night.

Passengers boarding the train expressed hope that the replacement of Duronto will also provide them with good service.

"Duronto was a good train. It is unfortunate for people in Allahabad that this train is being discontinued. However, if the Humsafar express train runs daily then it would be good. Now, it operates only on four days," Aftab Ahmad, a passenger told ANI.

Reportedly, the railway has decided to replace Duronto Express with another express train. Duronto Express covered the distance between Delhi and Allahabad in 7 hours and 30 minutes.&nbsp;

Railway passengers from the city boarded the Delhi-Allahabad Duronto Express train for the final time as the train departed from Allahabad on its last run on Thursday night.

Railway passengers from the city boarded the Delhi-Allahabad Duronto Express train for the final time as the train departed from Allahabad on its last run on Thursday night. Passengers boarding the train expressed hope that the replacement of Duronto will also provide them with good service. "Duronto was a good train. It is unfortunate for people in Allahabad that this train is being discontinued. However, if the Humsafar express train runs daily then it would be good. Now, it operates only on four days," Aftab Ahmad, a passenger told ANI. Reportedly, the railway has decided to replace Duronto Express with another express train. Duronto Express covered the distance between Delhi and Allahabad in 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Duronto train service discontinued on Delhi-Allahabad route

Indian Armed Forces are planning to deploy their latest American weapons systems including M777 ultra-light howitzers and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in the war games to be carried out in Arunachal Pradesh, close to borders with China.

Codenamed HimVijay, this exercise planned by India in the northeast will mainly test the war fighting abilities of the newly-raised 17 Mountain Strike Corps in Arunachal Pradesh.

The exercise will also involve the Indian Air Force (IAF) which would provide the aerial elements for the real war-type drills.

"During the exercise HimVijay, the 17 Mountain Strike Corps has been provided with the M777 Ultra Light Howitzers as they would be in an attack mode against the `enemy` locations and would require the lighter guns," senior Army sources told ANI.

Another recently inducted American system planned to be utilised during the war games would be the Chinook heavy-lift choppers.

These choppers were formally inducted into the Air Force on March 25 at the Chandigarh airbase.

"The Chinooks are not yet inducted into the northeast by the Air Force but at some point of time in the near future, they plan to induct it in that region. So, they have been requested to utilise the helicopters during the wargames," they said.

The war games have been planned by the Eastern Command for the last six months and are being implemented by the Panagarh-based 17 Strike Corps and the Tezpur-based 4 Corps.

The M777 ultra-light howitzers were inducted into the Indian Army along with the K-9 Vajra and Dhanush howitzers at Deolali near Nashik.

The Indian Army will induct a total of 145 M777 howitzers in service. The M777 Howitzers are planned to be used mainly for warfare in mountainous terrains only due to their lightweight and ability to be airdropped by the Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in the high altitude areas in the Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.

More than 5,000 troops of the Indian Army`s only Mountain Strike Corps will carry out a massive war game to practice real war-like situation on the eastern front of the country.

"As part of the war games, the troops of the Tezpur-based 4 Corps will be deployed at a high altitude location to defend their `territory` while a brigade-sized force (over 2,500 troops) of the 17 Mountain Strike Corps would be airlifted by the Indian Air Force to `launch an offensive` against them," sources said.

The Indian Air Force will airlift the troops using its latest transport aircraft including the C-17, C-130J Super Hercules and the AN-32 to airlift the army troops from Baghdogra in West Bengal and deploy them close to the `war zone` in Arunachal Pradesh, they said.

To make the 17 Mountain Strike Corps more effective during wartime in the mountainous region with China, the fighting formations under it are being converted into Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) as part of Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat`s restructuring process.

Once the IBGs are formed, the formations will be converted into leaner and more efficient fighting units with the ability to strike deeper and faster against enemy targets, the sources said.

An IBG, which will be a little smaller than a division, will integrate the existing elements of infantry, tank regiments, artillery, engineers and signals.

It will comprise six battalions of these elements and will be directly under a Corps.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian Armed Forces are planning to deploy their latest American weapons systems including M777 ultra-light howitzers and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in the war games to be carried out in Arunachal Pradesh, close to borders with China.

Indian Armed Forces are planning to deploy their latest American weapons systems including M777 ultra-light howitzers and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in the war games to be carried out in Arunachal Pradesh, close to borders with China. Codenamed HimVijay, this exercise planned by India in the northeast will mainly test the war fighting abilities of the newly-raised 17 Mountain Strike Corps in Arunachal Pradesh. The exercise will also involve the Indian Air Force (IAF) which would provide the aerial elements for the real war-type drills. "During the exercise HimVijay, the 17 Mountain Strike Corps has been provided with the M777 Ultra Light Howitzers as they would be in an attack mode against the `enemy` locations and would require the lighter guns," senior Army sources told ANI. Another recently inducted American system planned to be utilised during the war games would be the Chinook heavy-lift choppers. These choppers were formally inducted into the Air Force on March 25 at the Chandigarh airbase. "The Chinooks are not yet inducted into the northeast by the Air Force but at some point of time in the near future, they plan to induct it in that region. So, they have been requested to utilise the helicopters during the wargames," they said. The war games have been planned by the Eastern Command for the last six months and are being implemented by the Panagarh-based 17 Strike Corps and the Tezpur-based 4 Corps. The M777 ultra-light howitzers were inducted into the Indian Army along with the K-9 Vajra and Dhanush howitzers at Deolali near Nashik. The Indian Army will induct a total of 145 M777 howitzers in service. The M777 Howitzers are planned to be used mainly for warfare in mountainous terrains only due to their lightweight and ability to be airdropped by the Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in the high altitude areas in the Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. More than 5,000 troops of the Indian Army`s only Mountain Strike Corps will carry out a massive war game to practice real war-like situation on the eastern front of the country. "As part of the war games, the troops of the Tezpur-based 4 Corps will be deployed at a high altitude location to defend their `territory` while a brigade-sized force (over 2,500 troops) of the 17 Mountain Strike Corps would be airlifted by the Indian Air Force to `launch an offensive` against them," sources said. The Indian Air Force will airlift the troops using its latest transport aircraft including the C-17, C-130J Super Hercules and the AN-32 to airlift the army troops from Baghdogra in West Bengal and deploy them close to the `war zone` in Arunachal Pradesh, they said. To make the 17 Mountain Strike Corps more effective during wartime in the mountainous region with China, the fighting formations under it are being converted into Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) as part of Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat`s restructuring process. Once the IBGs are formed, the formations will be converted into leaner and more efficient fighting units with the ability to strike deeper and faster against enemy targets, the sources said. An IBG, which will be a little smaller than a division, will integrate the existing elements of infantry, tank regiments, artillery, engineers and signals. It will comprise six battalions of these elements and will be directly under a Corps.

India to deploy latest American weapon systems for war games to be conducted in Arunachal

Some batches of a spice mix sold by a top Indian cooking brand were taken off the shelves in the United States for salmonella contamination, the US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said.

The contaminated lot of MDH's sambhar powder was distributed in some northern Californian stores, the drug regulator said in a statement late on Wednesday. Sambhar is a southern Indian staple, eaten almost daily in many households.

MDH, ubiquitous in Indian kitchens, is known for selling various spice mixes that are key to Indian cooking. The family-run company did not immediately respond to phone calls and emails seeking more details.

"The recall was initiated after it was discovered by the FDA that the salmonella contaminated products were distributed," the statement said. It was not immediately clear if the recall was voluntary, or what the source of the contamination was.

No illnesses had yet been reported in connection with this problem, the regulator said.

The salmonella bacteria can cause serious and severe infections, especially in children or elderly people and others with weak immune system. Illnesses usually last 4 to 7 days and most people recover without treatment, according to the FDA.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India did not immediately respond to a query about possible local checks.

Some batches of a spice mix sold by a top Indian cooking brand were taken off the shelves in the United States for salmonella contamination, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said.

Some batches of a spice mix sold by a top Indian cooking brand were taken off the shelves in the United States for salmonella contamination, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said. The contaminated lot of MDH's sambhar powder was distributed in some northern Californian stores, the drug regulator said in a statement late on Wednesday. Sambhar is a southern Indian staple, eaten almost daily in many households. MDH, ubiquitous in Indian kitchens, is known for selling various spice mixes that are key to Indian cooking. The family-run company did not immediately respond to phone calls and emails seeking more details. "The recall was initiated after it was discovered by the FDA that the salmonella contaminated products were distributed," the statement said. It was not immediately clear if the recall was voluntary, or what the source of the contamination was. No illnesses had yet been reported in connection with this problem, the regulator said. The salmonella bacteria can cause serious and severe infections, especially in children or elderly people and others with weak immune system. Illnesses usually last 4 to 7 days and most people recover without treatment, according to the FDA. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India did not immediately respond to a query about possible local checks.

Top Indian spice mix recalled in US on salmonella contamination

In a bid to promote Hindi in Iceland, India supported Hindi Chair will be established in the University of Iceland. The move was announced during the visit of President Ram Nath Kovind who was in the country as part of his<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-community-forging-deep-people-to-people-ties-with-iceland-kovind-248718"> three-nation Europe tour</a> of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-ram-nath-kovind-embarks-on-9-day-visit-to-iceland-switzerland-slovenia-248529">Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia</a>.

During the press statements, President Kovind said, "I am also happy to announce that all formalities for the commencement of India supported Hindi Chair at the University of Iceland have been completed and the teaching of Hindi language will begin shortly."

Climate change was one of the keys during President's visit with India inviting Iceland to join International Solar Alliance led to promote solar energy worldwide.

Speaking on the theme "India-Iceland for a Greener Planet” at the University of Iceland in capital Reykjavik, President highlighted New Delhi Climate strategy and said, "India is now the world’s fastest-growing major economy and we require a huge expansion of our energy production. But we are doing it in a sustainable manner. Even as we grow, we are on course to meet our commitments under the Paris Agreement."

Lauding Iceland's commitments towards climate change, he said, "Iceland's green growth is a remarkable story. You are pioneers in energy and resource efficiency. Your people have found new ways to work with available resources and then innovatively scale them up too."

At the ceremonial reception for the Indian president, Iceland's Guðni Th. Jóhannesson also referred to India's Chandrayaan-2 mission. He told the children present in the event to welcome President Kovind, "You know India has a mission, like a space mission, trying to land on the moon".

Anti-terror collaboration and trade were other key focus with New Delhi thanking Iceland for its support and solidarity in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.

During the visit, three agreements were exchanged--on fisheries collaboration, cultural cooperation and visa waiver for holders of diplomatic and official passport.

In a bid to promote Hindi in Iceland, India supported Hindi Chair will be established in the University of Iceland. The move was announced during the visit of President Ram Nath Kovind who was in the country as part of his three-nation Europe tour of Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia.

In a bid to promote Hindi in Iceland, India supported Hindi Chair will be established in the University of Iceland. The move was announced during the visit of President Ram Nath Kovind who was in the country as part of his three-nation Europe tour of Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia. During the press statements, President Kovind said, "I am also happy to announce that all formalities for the commencement of India supported Hindi Chair at the University of Iceland have been completed and the teaching of Hindi language will begin shortly." Climate change was one of the keys during President's visit with India inviting Iceland to join International Solar Alliance led to promote solar energy worldwide. Speaking on the theme "India-Iceland for a Greener Planet” at the University of Iceland in capital Reykjavik, President highlighted New Delhi Climate strategy and said, "India is now the world’s fastest-growing major economy and we require a huge expansion of our energy production. But we are doing it in a sustainable manner. Even as we grow, we are on course to meet our commitments under the Paris Agreement." Lauding Iceland's commitments towards climate change, he said, "Iceland's green growth is a remarkable story. You are pioneers in energy and resource efficiency. Your people have found new ways to work with available resources and then innovatively scale them up too." At the ceremonial reception for the Indian president, Iceland's Guðni Th. Jóhannesson also referred to India's Chandrayaan-2 mission. He told the children present in the event to welcome President Kovind, "You know India has a mission, like a space mission, trying to land on the moon". Anti-terror collaboration and trade were other key focus with New Delhi thanking Iceland for its support and solidarity in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. During the visit, three agreements were exchanged--on fisheries collaboration, cultural cooperation and visa waiver for holders of diplomatic and official passport.

President Kovind announces Hindi Chair in Iceland University to promote the language

Igor Shuvalov served as the first deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation in 2008. He also functioned as an aide to the Russian President in 2004. In 2018 he was appointed as the chairman of the State Corporation for Development whose assets in the first half of 2019 stood at 50 billion dollars.

Igor Shuvalov served as the first deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation in 2008. He also functioned as an aide to the Russian President in 2004. In 2018 he was appointed as the chairman of the State Corporation for Development whose assets in the first half of 2019 stood at 50 billion dollars. In an exclusive interview with WION, VEB.RF Chairman Igor Shuvalov spoke about the relations between India and Russia and also listed out areas where the two countries need to work together in order to further the relations. WION: What is the health of Indo Russian investments? Igor Shuvalov: India is one of the key Russian partners. Throughout the decades, our countries have been extensively fostering bilateral relations in such important areas as nuclear energy, transport infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas and others. We believe that cooperation in certain of the above areas is promising; we are also interested in your experience of developing the urban economy. Over the last five years, the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has literally transformed India by making it waste-free. The government of India announced a plan to build around 100 high-technology cities from scratch. In the past, cities were built on river banks, today we build cities next to roads, yet, in the future, their location will depend on access to optic fibre networks and new generation infrastructure. Smart cities will give an impetus to India’s development, as India remains a dominantly agricultural country where almost every fifth household has no uninterrupted power supply. WION: Which are the areas, which need to be worked on? Igor Shuvalov: As a development institution, VEB.RF aims to further the relations between our companies to promote initiatives as part of the Russian-Indian technological partnership. By implementing joint initiatives, Russian companies may consider supplying Russian solar and wind power generation equipment, technologies and services to India. We will consider engaging government institutions and commercial companies to foster the implementation and development of renewable energy sources, including through the Make in India program’s initiatives. I would like to highlight the agreement on cooperation in the field of renewable energy sources between VEB.RF, Zarubezhneft, Hevel and Indian Oil Corporation Limited and SUN Group signed at the last Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. Taking into account the renewable energy sector growth rates in the Republic of India and its increasing demand for RES, the parties agreed to consider the implementation of projects with various combinations of generating equipment (up to 23GW capacity), as well as complexes for energy transfer and storage. WION: Which are the new areas both can focus on? Igor Shuvalov: With regard to the Indian-Russian relations, we have a lot of improvement opportunities, i.e. development of convenient transport corridors, logistics optimisation, bilateral trade in national currencies, and development of SMEs. Future business contacts will benefit significantly from a new trade representative office of a VEB.RF’s subsidiary, Russian Export Centre, opened in February 2019 in Mumbai jointly with the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade. In general, Russia and India should have a target to reach an USD30bn bilateral trade volume by 2025. WION: How is Russia handing US sanctions and what does this mean to the world at large? Igor Shuvalov: I faced this agenda for the first time when I was a member of the government. I have the following opinion: it makes us mobilise our resources, reinvigorate ourselves, and gauge our strength to progress ahead. There is nothing good about the sanctions, but the sanctions are likely a chance for us to fulfil our potential: to stay awake, to stay alert, and to count only on ourselves. You should understand that you are the maker of your success.

Moscow wants to work closely with India on building smart cities: Former deputy Prime Minister of Russia

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday said that people have to be made equal partners in the development process for any democracy to be successful.

Interacting with the officers of 2017 batch of Indian Administrative Services (IAS), he called for streamlining service delivery by providing people-centric, transparent and effective governance at all levels and stressed upon the need to eliminate unnecessary rules and regulations and to simplify processes.

He asked the officers to interact with people on a regular basis and to be receptive to their problems. Naidu also urged them to spend a lion's share of their time in the field as real education comes from there.

He asked the officers to take the lead in translating "Swarajya" to "Surajya" by providing corruption-free, citizen-centric and business-friendly governance and to ensure that fruits of development reach all citizens to cause a perceptible improvement in their quality of life.

The Vice President also advised bureaucrats to ensure that legislative intent was translated into effective implementation and also to make full use of information technology to reach out to the intended beneficiaries.

He asked the officers to adopt a more empathetic, responsive and inclusive approach and urged them to take the effort to understand the problems faced by the common man and also to make transparency and accountability their guiding principles

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday said that people have to be made equal partners in the development process for any democracy to be successful. Interacting with the officers of 2017 batch of Indian Administrative Services (IAS), he called for streamlining service delivery by providing people-centric, transparent and effective governance at all levels and stressed upon the need to eliminate unnecessary rules and regulations and to simplify processes.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday said that people have to be made equal partners in the development process for any democracy to be successful. Interacting with the officers of 2017 batch of Indian Administrative Services (IAS), he called for streamlining service delivery by providing people-centric, transparent and effective governance at all levels and stressed upon the need to eliminate unnecessary rules and regulations and to simplify processes. He asked the officers to interact with people on a regular basis and to be receptive to their problems. Naidu also urged them to spend a lion's share of their time in the field as real education comes from there. He asked the officers to take the lead in translating "Swarajya" to "Surajya" by providing corruption-free, citizen-centric and business-friendly governance and to ensure that fruits of development reach all citizens to cause a perceptible improvement in their quality of life. The Vice President also advised bureaucrats to ensure that legislative intent was translated into effective implementation and also to make full use of information technology to reach out to the intended beneficiaries. He asked the officers to adopt a more empathetic, responsive and inclusive approach and urged them to take the effort to understand the problems faced by the common man and also to make transparency and accountability their guiding principles

Make people equal partners in development process: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to IAS officers

In an exclusive interview to WION, Pakistan's first female astronaut congratulated India and ISRO's team on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/obstacles-on-lunar-surface-may-have-been-stopping-lander-from-receiving-signals-chandrayaan-1-director-mylswamy-annadura-248515">Chandrayaan-2 mission</a>.

Namira Salim, the first Pak woman to go to Space, said that the attempt to make a soft landing on the Moon's far side was in itself a "giant leap for South Asia as well as for the entire global space industry".&nbsp;

"As a global citizen, I congratulate India on the landing of Vikram Lander on the Moon. India's mission to the moon is about the contribution they have made to the international Space industry and for the benefit of mankind," Salim told WION.&nbsp;

Salim said that the lunar mission will create a "big paradigm shift in the minds of future scientists".&nbsp;

"This is a very groundbreaking development," she said, adding that the mission will pave way for better understanding and a new approach towards the Moon and missions for the scientists to come.&nbsp;

"The mission will help everyone learn from this experience. We are working in a global village of space countries right now, so this a great contribution to learning how to approach such missions in future," Salim said.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview to WION, Pakistan's first female astronaut congratulated India and ISRO's team on Chandrayaan-2 mission. Namira Salim, the first Pak woman to go to Space, said that the attempt to make a soft landing on the Moon's far side was in itself a "giant leap for South Asia as well as for the entire global space industry".

In an exclusive interview to WION, Pakistan's first female astronaut congratulated India and ISRO's team on Chandrayaan-2 mission. Namira Salim, the first Pak woman to go to Space, said that the attempt to make a soft landing on the Moon's far side was in itself a "giant leap for South Asia as well as for the entire global space industry". "As a global citizen, I congratulate India on the landing of Vikram Lander on the Moon. India's mission to the moon is about the contribution they have made to the international Space industry and for the benefit of mankind," Salim told WION. Salim said that the lunar mission will create a "big paradigm shift in the minds of future scientists". "This is a very groundbreaking development," she said, adding that the mission will pave way for better understanding and a new approach towards the Moon and missions for the scientists to come. "The mission will help everyone learn from this experience. We are working in a global village of space countries right now, so this a great contribution to learning how to approach such missions in future," Salim said.

Pakistan's first woman astronaut lauds Chandrayaan-2 mission, calls it a 'giant leap for South Asia'

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-now-global-threat-has-deep-roots-in-pakistan-pm-modi-249021">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come).

"My government has launched a slew of development projects in the first 100 days. However, a lot still needs to be done. Picture abhi baaki hai," he said addressing a public meeting.

At the function, he launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyaparik Mandhan Yojana'&nbsp;and 'Swarojgar'&nbsp;pension schemes, inaugurated the new building of the Jharkhand Assembly and a multi-modal terminal at Sahibganj in the afternoon today.

"All-round development is not only our priority but also our commitment. Development is our promise and intention too. The country has never seen such rapid pace of development that it is witnessing now," he further stated.

The Prime Minister also announced that the Centre will soon inaugurate a major project for the uplift of tribal children and added that several Eklavya model residential schools will be set up across the country.

It should be noted that these schools will provide upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary level education to Scheduled Tribe students in tribal-dominated areas.

"Today for the development and education of tribal children and youth, we are starting a very big project. We are setting up 462 Eklavya model residential schools across the country," he said.

The Prime Minister also talked about the work undertaken by the government for improving the connectivity of the region, "Even in terms of connectivity, a lot of work is being done in Jharkhand. Now, the roads are being built in areas where people never walked during the night."

"Our government is working towards providing social security to each and every Indian," the Prime Minister added.

He promised to make India corruption-free and said that the guilty will be shown their place.

"A massive crackdown on corruption has begun. Those people who will try to loot the public will be shown their right places."

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come).

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come). "My government has launched a slew of development projects in the first 100 days. However, a lot still needs to be done. Picture abhi baaki hai," he said addressing a public meeting. At the function, he launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyaparik Mandhan Yojana' and 'Swarojgar' pension schemes, inaugurated the new building of the Jharkhand Assembly and a multi-modal terminal at Sahibganj in the afternoon today. "All-round development is not only our priority but also our commitment. Development is our promise and intention too. The country has never seen such rapid pace of development that it is witnessing now," he further stated. The Prime Minister also announced that the Centre will soon inaugurate a major project for the uplift of tribal children and added that several Eklavya model residential schools will be set up across the country. It should be noted that these schools will provide upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary level education to Scheduled Tribe students in tribal-dominated areas. "Today for the development and education of tribal children and youth, we are starting a very big project. We are setting up 462 Eklavya model residential schools across the country," he said. The Prime Minister also talked about the work undertaken by the government for improving the connectivity of the region, "Even in terms of connectivity, a lot of work is being done in Jharkhand. Now, the roads are being built in areas where people never walked during the night." "Our government is working towards providing social security to each and every Indian," the Prime Minister added. He promised to make India corruption-free and said that the guilty will be shown their place. "A massive crackdown on corruption has begun. Those people who will try to loot the public will be shown their right places."

Government launched slew of development projects in first 100 days, a lot still needs to be done: PM Modi

India has said its quite confident at United Nations Human Rights Council ( UNHRC) even as Pakistan tries to rake up Kashmir at the Geneva-based institution and highlighted Islamabad's poor track record on the situation of minorities.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are quite confident that the members of UNHRC, they are aware of our position on Article 370 and the steps we have taken in J&amp;K to ensure normalcy."

Calling Pakistan's situation quite desperate, Raveesh Kumar said, "In case of doublespeak, its quite audacious on Pakistan that the country which is harbouring terrorists, which is the epicentre of terrorism, is pretending to speak on behalf of the global community on human rights, this is very rich. Their record of persecution of minorities ethnic and religious I don't think I need to explain."

Adding further he said, "Repeating a lie, 4-5 times doesn't turn out to be gospel truth that came out very clearly at UNHRC."

The 42nd session of the Human Rights Council is underway in Geneva from September 9-27.&nbsp;

On Tuesday clashes emerged between India and Pakistan as Islamabad raised Kashmir at the forum as they put out there national statements and right of reply.

Asked about the joint statement Pakistan has claimed on the behalf of 58 countries on the situation on Kashmir, Raveesh said, "If they got support, you would have known, it is not a secret session of UNHRC."

Explaining further Kumar said, "The list of countries who support them you have to ask them to provide. we do not have the list. You have to understand, there are 47 members including India and Pakistan, they are claiming 60, so either they have gone beyond to wider international community."

Pakistan has been hoping to bring a resolution against India or a special session on Kashmir but has failed due to lack of support.

MEA Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh in Geneva who is leading the India delegation in Geneva on Thursday met United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet and briefed her about India's concern on cross border terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

India has said its quite confident at United Nations Human Rights Council ( UNHRC) even as Pakistan tries to rake up Kashmir at the Geneva-based institution and highlighted Islamabad's poor track record on the situation of minorities.

India has said its quite confident at United Nations Human Rights Council ( UNHRC) even as Pakistan tries to rake up Kashmir at the Geneva-based institution and highlighted Islamabad's poor track record on the situation of minorities. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are quite confident that the members of UNHRC, they are aware of our position on Article 370 and the steps we have taken in J&K to ensure normalcy." Calling Pakistan's situation quite desperate, Raveesh Kumar said, "In case of doublespeak, its quite audacious on Pakistan that the country which is harbouring terrorists, which is the epicentre of terrorism, is pretending to speak on behalf of the global community on human rights, this is very rich. Their record of persecution of minorities ethnic and religious I don't think I need to explain." Adding further he said, "Repeating a lie, 4-5 times doesn't turn out to be gospel truth that came out very clearly at UNHRC." The 42nd session of the Human Rights Council is underway in Geneva from September 9-27. On Tuesday clashes emerged between India and Pakistan as Islamabad raised Kashmir at the forum as they put out there national statements and right of reply. Asked about the joint statement Pakistan has claimed on the behalf of 58 countries on the situation on Kashmir, Raveesh said, "If they got support, you would have known, it is not a secret session of UNHRC." Explaining further Kumar said, "The list of countries who support them you have to ask them to provide. we do not have the list. You have to understand, there are 47 members including India and Pakistan, they are claiming 60, so either they have gone beyond to wider international community." Pakistan has been hoping to bring a resolution against India or a special session on Kashmir but has failed due to lack of support. MEA Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh in Geneva who is leading the India delegation in Geneva on Thursday met United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet and briefed her about India's concern on cross border terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

United Nations Human Rights Council members aware of our position on Article 370: India

Ahead of a massive military exercise planned along the China border by India, soldiers of Indian and Chinese Army were engaged in a face-off near the northern bank of Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh but disengaged after talks between the two sides there.

Both the sides stake claim over the more than 130 kilometres which extends between both India and Chinese controlled Tibet area.

"There was a face-off between the two armies but it got over after the delegation-level talks between two sides," Indian Army said in a statement."

The face-off is over now and it had de-escalated and disengaged fully after delegation-level talks yesterday," Indian Army said.

The force also stated that such incidents happen due to differing perceptions of the LAC and there are established mechanisms to resolve such differences.Incidentally, the confrontation took place in the same area where Indian and Chinese troops had engaged in a bitter scuffle during the Doklam standoff.

This comes days after the Indian Army denied reports of incursion by the Chinese into Arunachal Pradesh.

India is fast building infrastructure along the borders with China which had modernised its side of the disputed Line of Actual Control a long time ago.

Indian Army is going to organise the war-games codenamed HimVijay in Arunachal Pradesh starting October in which the Air Force and the Army will jointly exercise real war scenario inside Indian territory simulating it to be a battle on the eastern front.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Ahead of a massive military exercise planned along the China border by India, soldiers of Indian and Chinese Army were engaged in a face-off near the northern bank of Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh but disengaged after talks between the two sides there.

Ahead of a massive military exercise planned along the China border by India, soldiers of Indian and Chinese Army were engaged in a face-off near the northern bank of Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh but disengaged after talks between the two sides there. Both the sides stake claim over the more than 130 kilometres which extends between both India and Chinese controlled Tibet area. "There was a face-off between the two armies but it got over after the delegation-level talks between two sides," Indian Army said in a statement." The face-off is over now and it had de-escalated and disengaged fully after delegation-level talks yesterday," Indian Army said. The force also stated that such incidents happen due to differing perceptions of the LAC and there are established mechanisms to resolve such differences.Incidentally, the confrontation took place in the same area where Indian and Chinese troops had engaged in a bitter scuffle during the Doklam standoff. This comes days after the Indian Army denied reports of incursion by the Chinese into Arunachal Pradesh. India is fast building infrastructure along the borders with China which had modernised its side of the disputed Line of Actual Control a long time ago. Indian Army is going to organise the war-games codenamed HimVijay in Arunachal Pradesh starting October in which the Air Force and the Army will jointly exercise real war scenario inside Indian territory simulating it to be a battle on the eastern front.

Ladakh: Indian, Chinese soldiers engage in face-off near Pangong Tso Lake

Indian intelligence agencies have intercepted code words used by Pakistan army and terror groups to send messages to their handlers in Jammu and Kashmir.

Days after the abrogation of article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Pak army and terror organisations have been reported to have used FM transmission stations to send messages.&nbsp;

While the code words were being used to escape the radar of defence and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, Pak army also directed the signal corps to move the VHF radio stations closer to the LoC. The VHFs (very high frequency) radio stations were used to play 'quami taranas', Pakistan's national anthem, for almost a week after the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

The signals were used by terror outfits like the LeT, JeM and Al Badr to communicate with their local cadres in Jammu and Kashmir.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday said that, "there are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/determined-to-protect-kashmiris-from-pak-terrorists-nsa-doval-248234">Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometres</a> along the border, they are trying to send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?" Doval said.&nbsp;

Pakistan is trying to create trouble in Jammu and Kashmir, he added, stating that "some 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested," Doval was quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Indian intelligence agencies have intercepted code words used by Pakistan army and terror groups to send messages to their handlers in Jammu and Kashmir. Days after the abrogation of article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Pak army and terror organisations have been reported to have used FM transmission stations to send messages.

Indian intelligence agencies have intercepted code words used by Pakistan army and terror groups to send messages to their handlers in Jammu and Kashmir. Days after the abrogation of article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Pak army and terror organisations have been reported to have used FM transmission stations to send messages. While the code words were being used to escape the radar of defence and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, Pak army also directed the signal corps to move the VHF radio stations closer to the LoC. The VHFs (very high frequency) radio stations were used to play 'quami taranas', Pakistan's national anthem, for almost a week after the abrogation of Article 370. The signals were used by terror outfits like the LeT, JeM and Al Badr to communicate with their local cadres in Jammu and Kashmir. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Saturday said that, "there are Pakistani communication towers 20 kilometres along the border, they are trying to send messages, we heard intercepts, they were telling their men here 'how so many apple trucks are moving, can’t you stop them? Should we send you bangles?" Doval said. Pakistan is trying to create trouble in Jammu and Kashmir, he added, stating that "some 230 Pakistani terrorists were spotted, some of them have infiltrated, some arrested," Doval was quoted by news agency ANI.

Jammu and Kashmir: Intelligence agencies intercept codes sent by Pak army over FM transmission to terrorists

India has asked Pakistan to be more flexible on the Kartarpur corridor in the backdrop of the third round of official talks which took place at Attari on September 4 and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-pakistan-india-fail-to-reach-an-agreement-on-key-issues-247573">ended in a deadlock</a>.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We had hoped that all pending issues will be resolved (in the meet), however, we realised Pakistan was quite inflexible during the talks."

"We have urged Pakistan to show some flexibility. It is involving the sensitivity of people. It is a long-pending demand and we have urged Pakistan to show flexibility on this matter so that we can proceed without hindrance in the run-up to the celebration of 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji," the foreign ministry spokesman added.

During the talks earlier this month, Pakistan had insisted on charging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-demands-20-to-use-corridor-during-visit-as-kartarpur-talks-end-in-deadlock-247613">$20 per pilgrim</a> for the visit which was opposed by India for being against the spirit of the smooth functioning of the corridor.

The Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had said earlier on Thursday, "Please note that this proposed fee will not be charged for entering the premises of Gurdwara Kartarpur Saheb. This fee will only be charged in order to supplement the enormous expenditure which the government of Pakistan is undertaking to complete and maintain the Kartarpur Saheb Corridor and to provide services to the pilgrims. The fee will not even cover a fraction of the cost that our government is bearing in order to facilitate the pilgrims."

Meanwhile, Punjab chief minister Capt Amarinder Singh has written to PM Modi and sought his intervention to make sure Pakistan withdraws the $20 service charge proposal.

During the September 4 meet, Islamabad did not agree to 10,000 pilgrim figure proposed by New Delhi on special occasion due to infrastructure issues. Pakistan also did not agree on the presence of Indian consular persons in the Gurudwara to facilitate the pilgrimage.

Both sides have said they are committed to the project which was agreed in November 2018. The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The Gurudwara is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

India has asked Pakistan to be more flexible on the Kartarpur corridor in the backdrop of the third round of official talks which took place at Attari on September 4 and ended in a deadlock.

India has asked Pakistan to be more flexible on the Kartarpur corridor in the backdrop of the third round of official talks which took place at Attari on September 4 and ended in a deadlock. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We had hoped that all pending issues will be resolved (in the meet), however, we realised Pakistan was quite inflexible during the talks." "We have urged Pakistan to show some flexibility. It is involving the sensitivity of people. It is a long-pending demand and we have urged Pakistan to show flexibility on this matter so that we can proceed without hindrance in the run-up to the celebration of 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji," the foreign ministry spokesman added. During the talks earlier this month, Pakistan had insisted on charging $20 per pilgrim for the visit which was opposed by India for being against the spirit of the smooth functioning of the corridor. The Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had said earlier on Thursday, "Please note that this proposed fee will not be charged for entering the premises of Gurdwara Kartarpur Saheb. This fee will only be charged in order to supplement the enormous expenditure which the government of Pakistan is undertaking to complete and maintain the Kartarpur Saheb Corridor and to provide services to the pilgrims. The fee will not even cover a fraction of the cost that our government is bearing in order to facilitate the pilgrims." Meanwhile, Punjab chief minister Capt Amarinder Singh has written to PM Modi and sought his intervention to make sure Pakistan withdraws the $20 service charge proposal. During the September 4 meet, Islamabad did not agree to 10,000 pilgrim figure proposed by New Delhi on special occasion due to infrastructure issues. Pakistan also did not agree on the presence of Indian consular persons in the Gurudwara to facilitate the pilgrimage. Both sides have said they are committed to the project which was agreed in November 2018. The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The Gurudwara is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

We have urged Pakistan to show some flexibility: India on Kartarpur corridor

India has said it will keep trying for the full implementation of the international court of justice(ICJ) judgement&nbsp;even as Pakistan said today that there will be no second consular<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-second-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-pakistan-249173"> access for Kulbhushan Jadhav</a>.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We will keep trying that judgement of ICJ is fully implemented. We would like to remain in touch with the Pakistani side through diplomatic channels."

Earlier in the day responding to a WION question if there will be a second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-accepts-pakistan-offer-of-consular-access-for-kulbhushan-jhadav-hopes-for-free-fair-meeting-247069">consular meeting for Jhadav,</a> Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said, "There is no other meeting".

On September 2, India had got its first consular access for Kulbhushan Jhadav in three years with Indian deputy high commissioner (DHC) Gaurav Ahluwalia in Islamabad meeting him for two hours.&nbsp;

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-second-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-pakistan-fm-spokesperson-249185/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian diplomat had found Jhadav under "extreme pressure to parrot a false narrative to bolster Pakistan’s untenable claims", according to a release issued by India's Ministry of external affairs(MEA).&nbsp;

A comprehensive report has been sent by the Indian mission in Islamabad to the MEA&nbsp;on the meeting. The meeting took place in the presence of the Pakistani government officials and was recorded.

The Pakistani proposal for consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav had taken place&nbsp;after New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the ICJ on July, 17. The world court had asked Pakistan to "provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations".

New Delhi had called on Islamabad to provide full consular access in an "environment free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal, in the light of the orders of the ICJ".

India maintains that Jadhav was abducted by Pakistani agencies from Iran and New Delhi was first informed about his custody by Pakistani authorities on March, 25, 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that military has awarded death sentence against him.

India has said it will keep trying for the full implementation of the international court of justice(ICJ) judgement even as Pakistan said today that there will be no second consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav.

India has said it will keep trying for the full implementation of the international court of justice(ICJ) judgement even as Pakistan said today that there will be no second consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We will keep trying that judgement of ICJ is fully implemented. We would like to remain in touch with the Pakistani side through diplomatic channels." Earlier in the day responding to a WION question if there will be a second consular meeting for Jhadav, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said, "There is no other meeting". On September 2, India had got its first consular access for Kulbhushan Jhadav in three years with Indian deputy high commissioner (DHC) Gaurav Ahluwalia in Islamabad meeting him for two hours. Watch Video: The Indian diplomat had found Jhadav under "extreme pressure to parrot a false narrative to bolster Pakistan’s untenable claims", according to a release issued by India's Ministry of external affairs(MEA). A comprehensive report has been sent by the Indian mission in Islamabad to the MEA on the meeting. The meeting took place in the presence of the Pakistani government officials and was recorded. The Pakistani proposal for consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav had taken place after New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the ICJ on July, 17. The world court had asked Pakistan to "provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations". New Delhi had called on Islamabad to provide full consular access in an "environment free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal, in the light of the orders of the ICJ". India maintains that Jadhav was abducted by Pakistani agencies from Iran and New Delhi was first informed about his custody by Pakistani authorities on March, 25, 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that military has awarded death sentence against him.

Will keep trying for full implementation of ICJ judgement, says India after Pak rejects second consular access to Jadhav

US FDA recalls MDH sambhar powder: What is Salmonella contamination, ways to prevent it

Days after US President Trump called off <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-taliban-sends-warning-to-us-president-donald-trump-in-bitter-exchange-249252">talks with the Taliban</a>, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government.

Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "We believe that all sections of the Afghan society including the legitimately elected government should be part of this process. We have supported the election, the process that is about to unfold later this month."

Explaining further, he said, "Our point of view is that any process should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, should not lead to any ungoverned spaces were terrorist and their proxies can relocate and should have the full concent of Afghan people and the government."

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-in-conversation-with-najib-sharifi-a-strategic-expert-from-afghanistans-kabul-248414/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The foreign ministry spokesman clarified that there is no change in New Delhi's policy regarding the peace process in Afghanistan. India supports Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and is one of the major development partner of Kabul since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.

MEA spokesperson expressed confidence that any "peace process which is being taken by the international community including by the US will accommodate our concerns in this regard."

India has shared its concerns, particularly on cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan with the US and Islamabad's support to terrorism in Afghanistan. US Special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has been to India thrice this year in the backdrop of US-Taliban talks which have now been closed by Washington.

Days after US President Trump called off talks with the Taliban, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government.

Days after US President Trump called off talks with the Taliban, India reacted to the development asserting that any peace process should respect the political mandate and involve all sections of the Afghan society including the Afghan government. Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "We believe that all sections of the Afghan society including the legitimately elected government should be part of this process. We have supported the election, the process that is about to unfold later this month." Explaining further, he said, "Our point of view is that any process should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, should not lead to any ungoverned spaces were terrorist and their proxies can relocate and should have the full concent of Afghan people and the government." Watch Video: The foreign ministry spokesman clarified that there is no change in New Delhi's policy regarding the peace process in Afghanistan. India supports Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and is one of the major development partner of Kabul since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. MEA spokesperson expressed confidence that any "peace process which is being taken by the international community including by the US will accommodate our concerns in this regard." India has shared its concerns, particularly on cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan with the US and Islamabad's support to terrorism in Afghanistan. US Special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has been to India thrice this year in the backdrop of US-Taliban talks which have now been closed by Washington.

Any peace process in Afghanistan should respect political mandate: India

In a major boost to the indigenous missile development programme, India on Wednesday successfully test-fired the Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) from a firing range in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool.

This was the third successful test-firing of the 100 per cent indigenous ATGM which is being developed for the infantry battalions of the Indian Army who would use them for taking out the enemy tank and other armoured vehicles during war times.

Buoyed by the success of the missile test-firing, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy told ANI that it was a major success for the missile project and India has become self-reliant in the field of anti-tank guided missiles.

"Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) today successfully flight tested indigenously developed low weight, fire and forget MPATGM. The missile was launched from a man-portable tripod launcher and the target was mimicking a functional tank," said Defence Ministry spokesperson Bharat Bhushan Babu.

"The missile hit the target in top attack mode and destroyed it with precision. All the mission objectives were met," he added.

The missile is incorporated with state-of-the-art Infrared Imaging Seeker along with advanced avionics.

The test paves the way for the Army to have developed third-generation man-portable ATGM indigenously, the spokesperson said.

Currently, the Indian Army uses the imported Milan 2T and Konkurs Russian anti-tank missile in the infantry but they are vintage missiles and the force is looking for a third-generation ATGM.

The Army recently had proposed to buy 3000 Milan 2T ATGMs as a stopgap arrangement.

The Indian Army requires around 70,000 ATGMs of various types and around 850 launchers of different types.

It is planning to procure third-generation ATGMs with a longer range than that of its existing Milan-2T and Konkurs ATGMs.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has also provided full backing and support to the indigenisation efforts of the force.

Last year, the government had decided to scrap a programme to buy the Spike ATGM from Israel keeping in mind the development made by DRDO in this regard.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO for the successful test.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a major boost to the indigenous missile development programme, India on Wednesday successfully test-fired the Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) from a firing range in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool.

In a major boost to the indigenous missile development programme, India on Wednesday successfully test-fired the Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) from a firing range in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool. This was the third successful test-firing of the 100 per cent indigenous ATGM which is being developed for the infantry battalions of the Indian Army who would use them for taking out the enemy tank and other armoured vehicles during war times. Buoyed by the success of the missile test-firing, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy told ANI that it was a major success for the missile project and India has become self-reliant in the field of anti-tank guided missiles. "Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) today successfully flight tested indigenously developed low weight, fire and forget MPATGM. The missile was launched from a man-portable tripod launcher and the target was mimicking a functional tank," said Defence Ministry spokesperson Bharat Bhushan Babu. "The missile hit the target in top attack mode and destroyed it with precision. All the mission objectives were met," he added. The missile is incorporated with state-of-the-art Infrared Imaging Seeker along with advanced avionics. The test paves the way for the Army to have developed third-generation man-portable ATGM indigenously, the spokesperson said. Currently, the Indian Army uses the imported Milan 2T and Konkurs Russian anti-tank missile in the infantry but they are vintage missiles and the force is looking for a third-generation ATGM. The Army recently had proposed to buy 3000 Milan 2T ATGMs as a stopgap arrangement. The Indian Army requires around 70,000 ATGMs of various types and around 850 launchers of different types. It is planning to procure third-generation ATGMs with a longer range than that of its existing Milan-2T and Konkurs ATGMs. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has also provided full backing and support to the indigenisation efforts of the force. Last year, the government had decided to scrap a programme to buy the Spike ATGM from Israel keeping in mind the development made by DRDO in this regard. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO for the successful test.

DRDO successfully test-fires indigenous anti-tank missile for Indian Army

Licypriya Kangujam, a child wonder has shocked the world after she became the youngest "climate activist". The seven-year-old&nbsp;began raising her voice about the need for immediate action to combat climate change and disaster risks reduction. She has been invited to 16 countries as part of her movement.

Kangujam&nbsp;is&nbsp;also an official participant and youngest delegate out of 8,000 participants from 196 countries at&nbsp;COP14 which is underway&nbsp;till September 13. After this, she will be travelling to Angola on September 16.

Licypriya often referred to as "India's Greta Thunberg"&nbsp;has been recently awarded the prestigious "World Children Peace Prize 2019"&nbsp;from Global Peace Index - Institute for Economics &amp; Peace (IEP), in the Maldives.

Speaking to WION, Licypriya shared her journey from the Maldives to Manipur and also spoke about climate change.

Here are excerpts of the conversation:

WION: What made you speak up for issues like climate at such a young age?

Licypriya Kangujam: I see people suffering and dying because of earthquake, flood, landslide, etc. My heart feels sorrow for people who cannot help themselves when disaster strikes. I cry when I see children losing their parents. My country has met disasters like earthquake, flood, landslide, etc. These are all the impact of climate change.

WION: You are often referred to as "India's Greta Thunberg", is it true? How do you feel on being compared to another international climate activist?

Licypriya Kangujam: Yes it is true. People call me "Greta of India, but truly I am Licypriya of India".

WION: Can you tell us more about your journey? How did you start?

Licypriya Kangujam: My father is my motivation. I have attended many international programs and conferences on disaster and climate change. I have heard many stories about children losing their parents or people becoming homeless due to danger of disasters. This is how I have started my journey.

WION: What efforts did you make so far? And also about the government to act on climate change?

Licypriya Kangujam: I have planted hundreds of trees. I am cleaning the seas and rivers with my supporters in various countries. And I am telling people to plant millions of trees by travelling to various countries for my child movement. I am creating awareness to the people not to throw garbages and plastics in the river, seas or oceans or anywhere. If they cut even small trees or big trees then they should plant thousands of trees. I am also recycling plastics. And also I am telling the world to recycle the plastics, newspapers or cans or anything. But they are not recycling. I will tell again and again even they do not listen to us.

WION: Are you also going to New York for UNGA?

Licypriya Kangujam: Not sure. Because I have to go to my school and I have to do my homework. If I am not studying then how my brain could be smart! I am attending lots of programs because I love them and they love me. But the adults, the seniors said they don’t care about our future. They also should care for our future as we care for them.

WION: What else are you planning to do?

Licypriya Kangujam: I will campaign more on climate change and I will try to grow millions of trees. And also I will travel from one place to another to plant more trees. I will go to the Parliament to tell Mr Modi and our MPs to pass the climate change law as soon as possible.

Licypriya Kangujam, a child wonder has shocked the world after she became the youngest "climate activist". The seven-year-old began raising her voice about the need for immediate action to combat climate change and disaster risks reduction.

Licypriya Kangujam, a child wonder has shocked the world after she became the youngest "climate activist". The seven-year-old began raising her voice about the need for immediate action to combat climate change and disaster risks reduction. She has been invited to 16 countries as part of her movement. Kangujam is also an official participant and youngest delegate out of 8,000 participants from 196 countries at COP14 which is underway till September 13. After this, she will be travelling to Angola on September 16. Licypriya often referred to as "India's Greta Thunberg" has been recently awarded the prestigious "World Children Peace Prize 2019" from Global Peace Index - Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), in the Maldives. Speaking to WION, Licypriya shared her journey from the Maldives to Manipur and also spoke about climate change. Here are excerpts of the conversation: WION: What made you speak up for issues like climate at such a young age? Licypriya Kangujam: I see people suffering and dying because of earthquake, flood, landslide, etc. My heart feels sorrow for people who cannot help themselves when disaster strikes. I cry when I see children losing their parents. My country has met disasters like earthquake, flood, landslide, etc. These are all the impact of climate change. WION: You are often referred to as "India's Greta Thunberg", is it true? How do you feel on being compared to another international climate activist? Licypriya Kangujam: Yes it is true. People call me "Greta of India, but truly I am Licypriya of India". WION: Can you tell us more about your journey? How did you start? Licypriya Kangujam: My father is my motivation. I have attended many international programs and conferences on disaster and climate change. I have heard many stories about children losing their parents or people becoming homeless due to danger of disasters. This is how I have started my journey. WION: What efforts did you make so far? And also about the government to act on climate change? Licypriya Kangujam: I have planted hundreds of trees. I am cleaning the seas and rivers with my supporters in various countries. And I am telling people to plant millions of trees by travelling to various countries for my child movement. I am creating awareness to the people not to throw garbages and plastics in the river, seas or oceans or anywhere. If they cut even small trees or big trees then they should plant thousands of trees. I am also recycling plastics. And also I am telling the world to recycle the plastics, newspapers or cans or anything. But they are not recycling. I will tell again and again even they do not listen to us. WION: Are you also going to New York for UNGA? Licypriya Kangujam: Not sure. Because I have to go to my school and I have to do my homework. If I am not studying then how my brain could be smart! I am attending lots of programs because I love them and they love me. But the adults, the seniors said they don’t care about our future. They also should care for our future as we care for them. WION: What else are you planning to do? Licypriya Kangujam: I will campaign more on climate change and I will try to grow millions of trees. And also I will travel from one place to another to plant more trees. I will go to the Parliament to tell Mr Modi and our MPs to pass the climate change law as soon as possible.

Meet 'India's Greta Thunberg': Seven-year-old Licypriya Kangujam from Manipur

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a warning of very heavy rainfall in several districts of Odisha.

The fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea along and off the coast in the next 24 hours.

IMD Bhubaneswar, Director, HR Biswas said, "Due to the cyclonic circulation over Jharkhand and the neighbouring area which is shifting from coastal West Bengal, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places over the districts of Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Angul."

The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the districts like Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Khordha, Koraput, Baragarh, Balangir and Sonepur are also expected to receive heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a warning of very heavy rainfall in several districts of Odisha. The fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea along and off the coast in the next 24 hours.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a warning of very heavy rainfall in several districts of Odisha. The fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea along and off the coast in the next 24 hours. IMD Bhubaneswar, Director, HR Biswas said, "Due to the cyclonic circulation over Jharkhand and the neighbouring area which is shifting from coastal West Bengal, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places over the districts of Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Angul." The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the districts like Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Khordha, Koraput, Baragarh, Balangir and Sonepur are also expected to receive heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours.

Odisha: Indian Meteorological Department predicts very heavy rainfall, issues warning to fishermen

A special CBI court in Delhi&nbsp;on Thursday reserved its order on the application of businessman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-grants-time-to-robert-vadra-to-file-rejoinder-in-plea-challenging-pmla-sections-236884">Robert Vadra seeking permission</a> to travel abroad.

Justice Arvind Kumar will pronounce his order in the matter at 2 pm on Friday.

Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents.

"Every time we seek permission to travel abroad, the prosecution says that the investigation is at a crucial stage. The applicant has registered at an expo in Barcelona from September 27 to 30. There are some other trade fairs as well. The applicant has routinely attended these fairs in the past," the advocate said.

Tulsi also said that there is no doubt that Vadra will return to India.

"Earlier, he had gone abroad in June and returned in July. Now we are seeking permission to travel abroad between September 20 and October 8," Tulsi added.

Advocates DP Singh and Nitesh Rana, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), said that this visit is an attempt to meet the co-accused and tamper with evidence.

"This is a farce. Both Bhandaris and other accused are in Europe. This is the only way Vadra can meet them since they cannot use e-mails or talk on the phone. They can't come to India either because they have been declared proclaimed offender," Rana said.

The ED said the question is not whether he will return to India or not but what is the purpose of the visit.

"There is nothing to show that his presence is required at the events. If he has no money, he should refrain from going anywhere. This is an attempt to meet the co-accused and tamper with evidence," he added.

Vadra is accused in a money laundering case and has been granted anticipatory bail. He has also been given protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of the court.

In June this year, a special CBI court had allowed businessman Vadra, facing money laundering charges, to travel abroad on medical grounds for a period of six weeks.

A special CBI court in Delhi on Thursday reserved its order on the application of businessman Robert Vadra seeking permission to travel abroad. Justice Arvind Kumar will pronounce his order in the matter at 2 pm on Friday.

A special CBI court in Delhi on Thursday reserved its order on the application of businessman Robert Vadra seeking permission to travel abroad. Justice Arvind Kumar will pronounce his order in the matter at 2 pm on Friday. Senior advocate KTS Tulsi, appearing for Vadra, contended that there are no allegations of tampering with the evidence since the case is mainly based on documents. "Every time we seek permission to travel abroad, the prosecution says that the investigation is at a crucial stage. The applicant has registered at an expo in Barcelona from September 27 to 30. There are some other trade fairs as well. The applicant has routinely attended these fairs in the past," the advocate said. Tulsi also said that there is no doubt that Vadra will return to India. "Earlier, he had gone abroad in June and returned in July. Now we are seeking permission to travel abroad between September 20 and October 8," Tulsi added. Advocates DP Singh and Nitesh Rana, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), said that this visit is an attempt to meet the co-accused and tamper with evidence. "This is a farce. Both Bhandaris and other accused are in Europe. This is the only way Vadra can meet them since they cannot use e-mails or talk on the phone. They can't come to India either because they have been declared proclaimed offender," Rana said. The ED said the question is not whether he will return to India or not but what is the purpose of the visit. "There is nothing to show that his presence is required at the events. If he has no money, he should refrain from going anywhere. This is an attempt to meet the co-accused and tamper with evidence," he added. Vadra is accused in a money laundering case and has been granted anticipatory bail. He has also been given protection from arrest on the condition that he cannot leave India without the permission of the court. In June this year, a special CBI court had allowed businessman Vadra, facing money laundering charges, to travel abroad on medical grounds for a period of six weeks.

Delhi Court reserves order on Robert Vadra's plea seeking permission to travel abroad

A special court on Thursday reserved its order on former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram's application <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-issues-notice-to-cbi-on-chidambarams-bail-plea-249166">seeking to surrender to the Enforcement Directorate</a> in a money laundering case after hearing arguments from both sides.

Justice Ajay Kumar Kuhar will pronounce his order on Friday.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), sought the dismissal of the application saying that the enforcement agency does not want Chidambaram's custody because they are "using this time to investigate the matter".

Advocates Amit Mahajan and Nitesh Rana also appeared for the ED along with Mehta.

"As of now, we don't want his custodial remand. We will seek his custody at an appropriate time. Since Chidambaram is already in judicial custody, he cannot tamper with evidence or influence witnesses. We are using this time to its maximum to investigate the matter," Mehta told the court.

He also said that choosing the date of arrest is not a right of the accused.

"We are waiting to see if the "conducive time" occurs immediately at the end of Chidambaram's judicial custody. So we want dismissal of this application of surrender moved by P Chidambaram as it is not maintainable," Mehta said.

The solicitor general submitted that the "arrest was necessary but ED cannot be directed to arrest him (Chidambaram) on a particular date.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal and advocate Arshdeep, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that ED official had come to arrest the Congress leader to his residence.

"ED has several times stated that custodial interrogation is needed. So why are they opposing it now," Sibal said.

He said that this is a punitive measure and that they are trying to prolonging it.

"This is mala fide, with the intent to punish Chidambaram and make him suffer. I want the investigation to be over. ED is changing its stand now it is clear that they intend to harass him," Sibal said.

He also added that the accused always has the right to surrender in court.

The Congress leader was arrested by CBI in the INX Media case on Aug 21 and sent to CBI custody for interrogation. Last week, a CBI court sent Chidambaram to judicial custody in Tihar Jail till September 19.

Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the ED pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union Finance Minister.

A special court on Thursday reserved its order on former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram's application seeking to surrender to the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case after hearing arguments from both sides.

A special court on Thursday reserved its order on former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram's application seeking to surrender to the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case after hearing arguments from both sides. Justice Ajay Kumar Kuhar will pronounce his order on Friday. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), sought the dismissal of the application saying that the enforcement agency does not want Chidambaram's custody because they are "using this time to investigate the matter". Advocates Amit Mahajan and Nitesh Rana also appeared for the ED along with Mehta. "As of now, we don't want his custodial remand. We will seek his custody at an appropriate time. Since Chidambaram is already in judicial custody, he cannot tamper with evidence or influence witnesses. We are using this time to its maximum to investigate the matter," Mehta told the court. He also said that choosing the date of arrest is not a right of the accused. "We are waiting to see if the "conducive time" occurs immediately at the end of Chidambaram's judicial custody. So we want dismissal of this application of surrender moved by P Chidambaram as it is not maintainable," Mehta said. The solicitor general submitted that the "arrest was necessary but ED cannot be directed to arrest him (Chidambaram) on a particular date. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal and advocate Arshdeep, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that ED official had come to arrest the Congress leader to his residence. "ED has several times stated that custodial interrogation is needed. So why are they opposing it now," Sibal said. He said that this is a punitive measure and that they are trying to prolonging it. "This is mala fide, with the intent to punish Chidambaram and make him suffer. I want the investigation to be over. ED is changing its stand now it is clear that they intend to harass him," Sibal said. He also added that the accused always has the right to surrender in court. The Congress leader was arrested by CBI in the INX Media case on Aug 21 and sent to CBI custody for interrogation. Last week, a CBI court sent Chidambaram to judicial custody in Tihar Jail till September 19. Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the ED pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union Finance Minister.

INX media case: Delhi Court reserves order on Chidambaram's surrender application to Enforcement Directorate

Indian Army officer Gaurav Solanki, who had gone missing since Saturday in Congo, was on Thursday found dead inside the Lake Kivu.

Lieutenant Colonel Solanki was posted with the Indian contingent in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Army officials on Thursday said that an intensive search was carried out to retrieve the officer.

The mortal remains of the officer were retrieved on September 12 at around 11 am from inside the Lake Kivu, approximately one kilometre away from an Island.

Army sources had earlier informed that Lieutenant Colonel Solanki has been missing since Saturday afternoon after he went for kayaking in Lake Kivu.

Lieutenant Colonel Solanki had gone to the Lake Kivu on September 8 for kayaking but later on, everybody returned except him.

India is one of the largest contributors, in terms of troops to UN Peacekeeping forces. Indian troops posted with these missions have served with distinction.

The Indian Army's participation in the UN peacekeeping operations spans a period of 57 years covering 43 UN Missions, in which over ninety-thousand

Indian soldiers have served in various parts of the world.

Indian troops have taken part in some of the most difficult operations, and have suffered casualties in the service of the UN.

Presently, India is ranked, as the third-largest troop contributor to the UN.

Indian Army officer Gaurav Solanki, who had gone missing since Saturday in Congo, was on Thursday found dead inside the Lake Kivu. Lieutenant Colonel Solanki was posted with the Indian contingent in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Indian Army officer Gaurav Solanki, who had gone missing since Saturday in Congo, was on Thursday found dead inside the Lake Kivu. Lieutenant Colonel Solanki was posted with the Indian contingent in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Army officials on Thursday said that an intensive search was carried out to retrieve the officer. The mortal remains of the officer were retrieved on September 12 at around 11 am from inside the Lake Kivu, approximately one kilometre away from an Island. Army sources had earlier informed that Lieutenant Colonel Solanki has been missing since Saturday afternoon after he went for kayaking in Lake Kivu. Lieutenant Colonel Solanki had gone to the Lake Kivu on September 8 for kayaking but later on, everybody returned except him. India is one of the largest contributors, in terms of troops to UN Peacekeeping forces. Indian troops posted with these missions have served with distinction. The Indian Army's participation in the UN peacekeeping operations spans a period of 57 years covering 43 UN Missions, in which over ninety-thousand Indian soldiers have served in various parts of the world. Indian troops have taken part in some of the most difficult operations, and have suffered casualties in the service of the UN. Presently, India is ranked, as the third-largest troop contributor to the UN.

Missing Indian Army officer posted with UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo found dead

Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-not-rest-even-for-a-day-in-100-days-work-done-is-incredible-rajnath-singh-248480">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a> on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace.

Inaugurating the first-ever conference of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) countries on Military Medicine here, he also called upon the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) of SCO countries to devise ways to effectively deal with new threats posed to soldiers by the ever-advancing battlefield technology.

"The threat of nuclear, chemical and biological warfare adds to the complexity of the existing challenges and AFMS plays a vital role in identifying those challenges, defining the limits of human tolerance and suggesting strategies to mitigate the adverse health effects," he said.

Underlining the importance of building capabilities to deal with the menace of bioterrorism, the defence minister&nbsp;termed it as a real threat the world is facing today.

"The bio-terrorism is a `contagious plague`. The armed forces should be at the forefront of combating the menace," he said.

He asked the AFMS to have a clear, effective and rehearsed protocol with respect to casualty management strategies and said the protocols and strategies need to be devised taking into account not just the peculiarities of the operating environment and the nature of operations, but also competence and capabilities of AFMS.

Suggesting co-operation among countries during disasters to ensure that timely assistance reaches those in need even across international borders, he said the scale of magnitude of destruction following disasters can often overwhelm the resources and relief efforts of a nation and the medical services of Armed Forces form a vital component of humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations.

Identifying "Patient Safety" as another area which needs to be further strengthened, Singh stressed on the need for awareness on healthy practices of patient safety that will greatly enhance the combat effectiveness of military services.

"Patient safety does not end at making correct diagnosis and prescribing correct medication. Dispensing that prescribed medicine to the correct patient via the correct method plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of patients," he said.

The Defence Minister said SCO is the "alliance of the East", due to its growing centrality in Asia-Pacific and described it as the primary security pillar in the region.

"SCO is the largest regional organisation in the world in terms of geographical coverage and population. It covers 22 per cent of the landmass, 40 per cent population and contribute to 20 per cent of world`s GDP," he said.

Singh said India has been making positive contribution to SCO and actively participated in Ex Peace Mission in Russia.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said, evolving technology translates into more and more complex casualties and therefore, it is imperative that AFMS keeps pace with technology and expertise.

Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace.

Terming bioterrorism as a "contagious plague," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that it was a real threat the world was facing today and asked the armed forces to be in the forefront of combating the menace. Inaugurating the first-ever conference of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) countries on Military Medicine here, he also called upon the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) of SCO countries to devise ways to effectively deal with new threats posed to soldiers by the ever-advancing battlefield technology. "The threat of nuclear, chemical and biological warfare adds to the complexity of the existing challenges and AFMS plays a vital role in identifying those challenges, defining the limits of human tolerance and suggesting strategies to mitigate the adverse health effects," he said. Underlining the importance of building capabilities to deal with the menace of bioterrorism, the defence minister termed it as a real threat the world is facing today. "The bio-terrorism is a `contagious plague`. The armed forces should be at the forefront of combating the menace," he said. He asked the AFMS to have a clear, effective and rehearsed protocol with respect to casualty management strategies and said the protocols and strategies need to be devised taking into account not just the peculiarities of the operating environment and the nature of operations, but also competence and capabilities of AFMS. Suggesting co-operation among countries during disasters to ensure that timely assistance reaches those in need even across international borders, he said the scale of magnitude of destruction following disasters can often overwhelm the resources and relief efforts of a nation and the medical services of Armed Forces form a vital component of humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. Identifying "Patient Safety" as another area which needs to be further strengthened, Singh stressed on the need for awareness on healthy practices of patient safety that will greatly enhance the combat effectiveness of military services. "Patient safety does not end at making correct diagnosis and prescribing correct medication. Dispensing that prescribed medicine to the correct patient via the correct method plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of patients," he said. The Defence Minister said SCO is the "alliance of the East", due to its growing centrality in Asia-Pacific and described it as the primary security pillar in the region. "SCO is the largest regional organisation in the world in terms of geographical coverage and population. It covers 22 per cent of the landmass, 40 per cent population and contribute to 20 per cent of world`s GDP," he said. Singh said India has been making positive contribution to SCO and actively participated in Ex Peace Mission in Russia. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said, evolving technology translates into more and more complex casualties and therefore, it is imperative that AFMS keeps pace with technology and expertise.

Armed forces need to be in forefront to tackle bioterrorism: Defence minister Rajnath Singh

Former CAG chief Vinod Rai broke his silence on the issue of 2G and coal scam. Rai speaking exclusively to WION said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-will-get-to-know-vinod-rai-on-allegations-made-by-a-raja-30461">CAG’s stand on the&nbsp;loss</a> stood vindicated.&nbsp;

“The money which the government had earned through auction was within the band which CAG had said,” said Rai. The ex-CAG chief also spoke about his relationship with the political establishment. He went on record to say that no political pressure was put on him as the CAG chief and he was never persuaded by the political establishment to change his report.

Though he made it a point to say that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was incorrectly briefed on the role of CAG and he had to write him a letter to clarify his position as the head of the institution.&nbsp;

Rai pointed out that that he never received any acknowledgement of his letter but when he met ex-PM Manmohan Singh&nbsp;six months later, he remembered the letter. Vinod Rai spoke on a variety of issues including&nbsp;A. Raja’s acquittal by the trial court.&nbsp;

Rai told WION that he did not feel disappointed by the verdict. “CAG’s job was to audit and not investigate,” he said. The storm which CAG kicked off had reached the Supreme Court which ultimately cancelled the licenses paving the way for auction.

Rai rejected the charge&nbsp;that his team created policy paralysis and innocent bureaucrats got targeted.&nbsp;

“Everyone needs to be accountable even bureaucrats. Acts of commission cannot be left unpunished. Only incompetent people complained of policy paralysis,” said Vinod Rai.&nbsp;

He also made it a point to address the failure of the 2G case at the trial court. Rai said that it showed weakness on the prosecution side and CBI needs to address the issue. He also expressed happiness at the new norms being in place during&nbsp;auction of natural resources which came in the wake of the audit of the coal allocation during UPA’s regime.

Vinod Rai in his book "Good Governance" also touched on the issues relating to important pillars of democracy like Parliament and the Election Commission.&nbsp;

Currently, the ex-CAG chief is at the helm&nbsp;of affairs in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-opening-ceremony-this-year-money-will-go-to-pulwama-martyrs-families-coa-chief-vinod-rai-198981">Board Control of Cricket in India</a>(BCCI).&nbsp;

He was appointed as the head administrator of committee by the Supreme Court to oversee reforms in the cricket board.&nbsp;

Rai admitted that long tenures were a problem and a group of people had come to dominate the sporting body. He said the new body will be in place by October&nbsp;22.&nbsp;

“Those who comply will remain with us and those who don’t will be outside the cricketing world. Every state associations will need to amend the constitution,” said Vinod Rai.

Former CAG chief Vinod Rai broke his silence on the issue of 2G and coal scam. Rai speaking exclusively to WION said that CAG’s stand on the loss stood vindicated.

Former CAG chief Vinod Rai broke his silence on the issue of 2G and coal scam. Rai speaking exclusively to WION said that CAG’s stand on the loss stood vindicated. “The money which the government had earned through auction was within the band which CAG had said,” said Rai. The ex-CAG chief also spoke about his relationship with the political establishment. He went on record to say that no political pressure was put on him as the CAG chief and he was never persuaded by the political establishment to change his report. Though he made it a point to say that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was incorrectly briefed on the role of CAG and he had to write him a letter to clarify his position as the head of the institution. Rai pointed out that that he never received any acknowledgement of his letter but when he met ex-PM Manmohan Singh six months later, he remembered the letter. Vinod Rai spoke on a variety of issues including A. Raja’s acquittal by the trial court. Rai told WION that he did not feel disappointed by the verdict. “CAG’s job was to audit and not investigate,” he said. The storm which CAG kicked off had reached the Supreme Court which ultimately cancelled the licenses paving the way for auction. Rai rejected the charge that his team created policy paralysis and innocent bureaucrats got targeted. “Everyone needs to be accountable even bureaucrats. Acts of commission cannot be left unpunished. Only incompetent people complained of policy paralysis,” said Vinod Rai. He also made it a point to address the failure of the 2G case at the trial court. Rai said that it showed weakness on the prosecution side and CBI needs to address the issue. He also expressed happiness at the new norms being in place during auction of natural resources which came in the wake of the audit of the coal allocation during UPA’s regime. Vinod Rai in his book "Good Governance" also touched on the issues relating to important pillars of democracy like Parliament and the Election Commission. Currently, the ex-CAG chief is at the helm of affairs in the Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI). He was appointed as the head administrator of committee by the Supreme Court to oversee reforms in the cricket board. Rai admitted that long tenures were a problem and a group of people had come to dominate the sporting body. He said the new body will be in place by October 22. “Those who comply will remain with us and those who don’t will be outside the cricketing world. Every state associations will need to amend the constitution,” said Vinod Rai.

CAG did not create policy paralysis: Vinod Rai to WION

Deputy Foreign Minister of Poland Marcin Przydacz visited India in the first direct flight that will connect capitals of Poland and India i.e Warsaw and New Delhi directly after a gap of 25 years. He spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal on how the direct flight will improve people to people connectivity, Bollywood and ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.&nbsp;

WION: How will the direct flight benefit the people of India and Poland?

Marcin Przydacz: There will be a greater impact on the relations between Poland and India, not only politically but also economically when it comes to tourism. Polish people are very interested in India, they have more and more money. This is not the first direct flight between Poland and Asia. There have been direct flights between China, Japan and Singapore. Very very important for tourist and also for businessmen.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;&nbsp;Is trade value between India-Poland&nbsp;far below its potential?

Marcin Przydacz: It is far below potential but not that bad. Our trade is $ 3 billion, so it is not that bad but we can do much more. We are interested also in what you can offer to Poland. We can discuss high tech, fin-tech, agriculture products and also cultural products. Bollywood is more and more popular in Poland. There were a couple of films that were done in Warsaw, our capital. That is also a possibility for further cooperation.

WION:&nbsp;India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited your country last month, how will it increase the political engagement?

Marcin Przydacz: That was a very important visit. The last visit of Indian foreign minister was 30 years ago. EAM visit was very important and has taken our relations at a higher level. He had a good talk with our deputy Prime minister and I really hope the result of this visit will take us to a higher level. We are working on a presidential visit. Our president will have a chance to visit very soon, that is why I am here for political dialogue at a higher level.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;Your take on the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions?

Marcin Przydacz: Well those tensions between India and Pakistan as a result of a change in status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir is a big concern for the whole international family. We as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council are also the concern of the situation. We are for a peaceful resolution, for dialogue and we like EU think, it will have to solve bilaterally, you have to discuss and find a way on how to solve the situation.

WION:&nbsp;You will visit Kolhapur in Maharashtra, a city that hosted many Polish refugees during World War 2 as Nazis attacked Poland.

Marcin Przydacz: Our friendly ties are deeply rooted in history and good foundation of ties are based on generosity by Indian society during World War 2, when your people invited our refugees who were forcibly taken to Siberia, Russia and were able to escape but they didn't have the chance to go back home, so they came to India and they were hosted here. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, there were camps for 5000 Polish people. Generosity by our society is still remembered in Poland. I don't know if it is remembered here in India and that is why we are opening a museum on how Indian society helped Polish refugees, many of them are 90 years old.

WION:&nbsp;How do you see US President calling off talks with Taliban and developments in Afghanistan?

Marcin Przydacz: Being a non-permanent member of UNSC we are concerned on the situation in Afghanistan. Our troops are there, we are in Afghanistan for the last couple of years and we would love to see Afghanistan as a peaceful and prosperous country because then its crucial for security and stability of the whole region starting from India but it has impact on the situation in Europe. 
&nbsp;

Deputy Foreign Minister of Poland Marcin Przydacz visited India in the first direct flight that will connect capitals of Poland and India i.e Warsaw and New Delhi directly after a gap of 25 years.

Deputy Foreign Minister of Poland Marcin Przydacz visited India in the first direct flight that will connect capitals of Poland and India i.e Warsaw and New Delhi directly after a gap of 25 years. He spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal on how the direct flight will improve people to people connectivity, Bollywood and ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. WION: How will the direct flight benefit the people of India and Poland? Marcin Przydacz: There will be a greater impact on the relations between Poland and India, not only politically but also economically when it comes to tourism. Polish people are very interested in India, they have more and more money. This is not the first direct flight between Poland and Asia. There have been direct flights between China, Japan and Singapore. Very very important for tourist and also for businessmen. WION: Is trade value between India-Poland far below its potential? Marcin Przydacz: It is far below potential but not that bad. Our trade is $ 3 billion, so it is not that bad but we can do much more. We are interested also in what you can offer to Poland. We can discuss high tech, fin-tech, agriculture products and also cultural products. Bollywood is more and more popular in Poland. There were a couple of films that were done in Warsaw, our capital. That is also a possibility for further cooperation. WION: India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited your country last month, how will it increase the political engagement? Marcin Przydacz: That was a very important visit. The last visit of Indian foreign minister was 30 years ago. EAM visit was very important and has taken our relations at a higher level. He had a good talk with our deputy Prime minister and I really hope the result of this visit will take us to a higher level. We are working on a presidential visit. Our president will have a chance to visit very soon, that is why I am here for political dialogue at a higher level. WION: Your take on the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions? Marcin Przydacz: Well those tensions between India and Pakistan as a result of a change in status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir is a big concern for the whole international family. We as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council are also the concern of the situation. We are for a peaceful resolution, for dialogue and we like EU think, it will have to solve bilaterally, you have to discuss and find a way on how to solve the situation. WION: You will visit Kolhapur in Maharashtra, a city that hosted many Polish refugees during World War 2 as Nazis attacked Poland. Marcin Przydacz: Our friendly ties are deeply rooted in history and good foundation of ties are based on generosity by Indian society during World War 2, when your people invited our refugees who were forcibly taken to Siberia, Russia and were able to escape but they didn't have the chance to go back home, so they came to India and they were hosted here. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, there were camps for 5000 Polish people. Generosity by our society is still remembered in Poland. I don't know if it is remembered here in India and that is why we are opening a museum on how Indian society helped Polish refugees, many of them are 90 years old. WION: How do you see US President calling off talks with Taliban and developments in Afghanistan? Marcin Przydacz: Being a non-permanent member of UNSC we are concerned on the situation in Afghanistan. Our troops are there, we are in Afghanistan for the last couple of years and we would love to see Afghanistan as a peaceful and prosperous country because then its crucial for security and stability of the whole region starting from India but it has impact on the situation in Europe.

India, Pakistan have to solve Kashmir bilaterally: Polish Deputy Foreign Minister to WION

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