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In a major breakthrough, the Uttar Pradesh ATS and Kathgarh Police arrested Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Ulfat Husain from Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, after 17 years on the run. Husain, who was previously arrested in 2002 and released in 2008, has now been presented in court.

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A leader from NCP (SP) party in India's Maharashtra state wrote a letter to the nation's President Droupadi Murmu&nbsp;on International Women's Day on March 8 asking permission for women to "commit one murder".&nbsp;
Rohini Khadse - who is the daughter of the former state minister Eknath Khadsde - expressed her grave concerns on women's safety in the country. She accused the Indian government of being indifferent to the issue.&nbsp;
WATCH: BJP: Karnataka budget allocations unfair and unconstitutional
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In her letter to President Murmu, Khadse highlighted the deteriorating state of women's security across the nation. She claimed that women feel compelled to take extreme measures for change.
She then gave references of historical figures, saying, "At the time when their kingdom was in danger, heroic women like Maharani Tararani, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, and others pulled out the sword in the defence of their people. We are facing another kind of danger. Why should women today lag?"
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/womens-day-feels-hollow-when-safety-is-still-a-privilege-rape-case-in-india-dowry-deaths-8834967">Women&rsquo;s Day feels hollow when safety is still a privilege</a>
She also talked about the victim-shaming faed by rape survivors. She said it's always the woman who gets blamed for her attire, behaviours, and even the time at which the incident takes place, with people asking why she was there at that particular time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/a-womens-day-special-what-if-rcb-players-became-prime-minister-for-a-day-heres-what-they-said-watch-8833682">Women&rsquo;s Day special: What if RCB players became Prime Minister for a day? Here&rsquo;s what they said - WATCH</a>
"Can society explain why minors are raped? The social psyche needs to change and, therefore, we have made an emotional appeal," she said, as per a report in Times of India newspaper.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/international-womens-day-2025-wishes-quotes-messages-15-women-empowerment-quotes-to-celebrate-honor-woman-achievement-8827252">Happy Women&rsquo;s Day 2025 Wishes | 15 women empowerment quotes to celebrate and honour their achievements</a>
"We want to kill the oppressive mentality, the rapist tendency, the inactive law and order system. For this reason, we have sought permission from the President of India. The same party is in control of central and state govts, yet there is an inordinate delay in enacting stringent laws like the Shakti Act that was made by MVA," she told the newspaper.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

INDIA NEWS | A leader from NCP (SP) party in India's Maharashtra wrote a letter to the president on International Women's Day on March 8 asking permission for women to "commit one murder".

A leader from NCP (SP) party in India's Maharashtra state wrote a letter to the nation's President Droupadi Murmu on International Women's Day on March 8 asking permission for women to "commit one murder". Rohini Khadse - who is the daughter of the former state minister Eknath Khadsde - expressed her grave concerns on women's safety in the country. She accused the Indian government of being indifferent to the issue. WATCH: BJP: Karnataka budget allocations unfair and unconstitutional In her letter to President Murmu, Khadse highlighted the deteriorating state of women's security across the nation. She claimed that women feel compelled to take extreme measures for change. She then gave references of historical figures, saying, "At the time when their kingdom was in danger, heroic women like Maharani Tararani, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, and others pulled out the sword in the defence of their people. We are facing another kind of danger. Why should women today lag?" Also read: Women’s Day feels hollow when safety is still a privilege She also talked about the victim-shaming faed by rape survivors. She said it's always the woman who gets blamed for her attire, behaviours, and even the time at which the incident takes place, with people asking why she was there at that particular time. Also read: Women’s Day special: What if RCB players became Prime Minister for a day? Here’s what they said - WATCH "Can society explain why minors are raped? The social psyche needs to change and, therefore, we have made an emotional appeal," she said, as per a report in Times of India newspaper. Also read: Happy Women’s Day 2025 Wishes | 15 women empowerment quotes to celebrate and honour their achievements "We want to kill the oppressive mentality, the rapist tendency, the inactive law and order system. For this reason, we have sought permission from the President of India. The same party is in control of central and state govts, yet there is an inordinate delay in enacting stringent laws like the Shakti Act that was made by MVA," she told the newspaper. (With inputs from agencies)

NCP leader asks permission for women to 'commit one murder' in letter to President Murmu

India on Sunday (Mar 9) strongly condemned the recent vandalising of a Hindu Temple in the US, calling for local authorities to take action in the matter.
One of California&rsquo;s largest Hindu temples, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, was defaced with anti-India messages in yet another hate crime against the Hindu community in the US.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-hindu-temple-vandalised-in-us-with-anti-india-graffiti-ahead-of-khalistani-referendum-8835595">Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum'</a>
<h2>India condemns vandilisation of Hindu temple</h2>
In response to the incident, the Official Spokesperson of India's external affairs ministry, Randhir Jaiswal, said, &ldquo;We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-artist-arrested-for-inking-hindu-deity-on-foreign-nationals-thigh-8778078">Odisha artist arrested for inking Hindu deity on foreign national&rsquo;s thigh, stirring controversy</a>
&ldquo;We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship,&rdquo; the ministry statement said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our response to media queries regarding vandalism at a Hindu Temple in California: 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/8H25kCdwhY">https://t.co/8H25kCdwhY</a> <a href="https://t.co/H59bYxq7qZ">pic.twitter.com/H59bYxq7qZ</a>
&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1898609852730970133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Hindu organisations express outrage</h2>
The vandalisation of the Hindu Temple in California has sparked widespread outrage from Hindu organisations.
The BAPS stated that it stands against hate, adding that the community will ensure peace and compassion prevail.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-jai-shri-krishna-to-ram-mandir-times-when-kash-patel-displayed-hindu-heritage-8747391">Embracing roots: FBI chief Kash Patel's notable displays of Hindu heritage</a>
&ldquo;In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail,&rdquo; the BAPS said in an X post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace&hellip;
&mdash; BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/BAPS_PubAffairs/status/1898489613334770142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) highlighted in an X post that the vandalism happened just days before a &lsquo;Khalistan referendum&rsquo; was planned in Los Angeles, raising concerns about the religious tensions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/swara-bhasker-calls-vicky-kaushals-chhaava-a-partly-fictionalised-filmy-torture-of-hindus-8737214">Swara Bhasker calls Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava a &lsquo;partly fictionalised filmy torture of Hindus&rsquo;, gets slammed</a>
The post further listed 10 Hindu temples that were vandalised or burgled in the last few years, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | In response to the incident, the Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms.”

India on Sunday (Mar 9) strongly condemned the recent vandalising of a Hindu Temple in the US, calling for local authorities to take action in the matter. One of California’s largest Hindu temples, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, was defaced with anti-India messages in yet another hate crime against the Hindu community in the US. Also read | Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum' India condemns vandilisation of Hindu temple In response to the incident, the Official Spokesperson of India's external affairs ministry, Randhir Jaiswal, said, “We have seen reports regarding the vandalism at a Hindu temple in Chino Hills, California. We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms.” Also read | Odisha artist arrested for inking Hindu deity on foreign national’s thigh, stirring controversy “We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship,” the ministry statement said. Our response to media queries regarding vandalism at a Hindu Temple in California: 🔗 https://t.co/8H25kCdwhY pic.twitter.com/H59bYxq7qZ — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) March 9, 2025 Hindu organisations express outrage The vandalisation of the Hindu Temple in California has sparked widespread outrage from Hindu organisations. The BAPS stated that it stands against hate, adding that the community will ensure peace and compassion prevail. Also read | Embracing roots: FBI chief Kash Patel's notable displays of Hindu heritage “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail,” the BAPS said in an X post. In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace… — BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) March 8, 2025 The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) highlighted in an X post that the vandalism happened just days before a ‘Khalistan referendum’ was planned in Los Angeles, raising concerns about the religious tensions. Also read | Swara Bhasker calls Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava a ‘partly fictionalised filmy torture of Hindus’, gets slammed The post further listed 10 Hindu temples that were vandalised or burgled in the last few years, calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. (With inputs from agencies)

India strongly condemns ‘despicable act’ of Hindu temple vandalisation in California

A man in India's western Pune city was seen stepping out of his BMW luxury car, urinating in public and later flashing the passersby,&nbsp; including women, on Saturday (March 8). The accused, identified as Gaurav Ahuja, later posted a video apology on the internet and surrendered to the Pune Police.&nbsp;
Watch: Convicted murderer executed by a firing squad in US after 15 years
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Another man was seen sitting in the car holding beer bottles in the video circulated on the social media platform X. He was later identified as Bhagyesh Oswal.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-villagers-save-drunk-man-lying-on-electric-wires-in-india-8584995">Watch: Villagers save drunk man lying on electric wires in India's Andhra Pradesh</a>
"I am Gaurav Ahuja, what I did in public was very wrong. I apologise to the public, police department and Shinde Saheb. Give me a chance, I'm sorry. Don't bother any of my family members. I will surrender at the Yerwada police station in the next eight hours," Ahuja said in the apology video with folded hands.&nbsp;
It is not clear the "Shinde Saheb" mentioned in the video was Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drunk-man-kills-5-including-8-year-old-execution-style-in-cleveland-suspect-with-hunting-rifle-at-large-587360">Drunk man kills 5, including 8-year-old, in &lsquo;execution style&rsquo; with hunting rifle in Cleveland, on the run</a>
"We advised his father to ask Ahuja to surrender before police in case the latter contacts them over the phone. He switched off his cell phone after the incident. In 2021, the airport police had arrested Ahuja in a gambling case. He was later released on bail," senior inspector Ravindra Shelke told the Times of India newspaper.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m81bo69n-7y7337nz-0neu3zet">
In a shocking incident at Pune, a video of &lsquo;Drunk&rsquo; BMW Gaurav Ahuja parks the car in the middle of the road in Pune and urinates at a busy traffic junction. Now, he is Apologizing for what he did!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pune?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pune</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShockingVideo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShockingVideo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViralVideos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViralVideos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHYvirally?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WHYvirally</a> <a href="https://t.co/38JTvW1JrF">pic.twitter.com/38JTvW1JrF</a>
&mdash; V (@WHYvirally) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHYvirally/status/1898593425370534100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Both Ahuja and Osawal were taken into custody and were confirmed drunk during the incident after a medical check-up.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-marathon-runners-drinks-spiked-with-rum-by-drunk-man-in-mexico-514108">Watch: Marathon runners' drinks spiked with rum by drunk man in Mexico</a>
A case was filed against them under India's criminal law, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and the Motor Vehicles Act for public nuisance, rash and negligent driving, causing danger on public roads and other offences.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | India News | The accused, identified as Gaurav Ahuja in his BMW car, later posted a video apology on the  internet and surrendered to the Pune Police.

A man in India's western Pune city was seen stepping out of his BMW luxury car, urinating in public and later flashing the passersby, including women, on Saturday (March 8). The accused, identified as Gaurav Ahuja, later posted a video apology on the internet and surrendered to the Pune Police. Watch: Convicted murderer executed by a firing squad in US after 15 years Another man was seen sitting in the car holding beer bottles in the video circulated on the social media platform X. He was later identified as Bhagyesh Oswal. Also read: Watch: Villagers save drunk man lying on electric wires in India's Andhra Pradesh "I am Gaurav Ahuja, what I did in public was very wrong. I apologise to the public, police department and Shinde Saheb. Give me a chance, I'm sorry. Don't bother any of my family members. I will surrender at the Yerwada police station in the next eight hours," Ahuja said in the apology video with folded hands. It is not clear the "Shinde Saheb" mentioned in the video was Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Also read: Drunk man kills 5, including 8-year-old, in ‘execution style’ with hunting rifle in Cleveland, on the run "We advised his father to ask Ahuja to surrender before police in case the latter contacts them over the phone. He switched off his cell phone after the incident. In 2021, the airport police had arrested Ahuja in a gambling case. He was later released on bail," senior inspector Ravindra Shelke told the Times of India newspaper. In a shocking incident at Pune, a video of ‘Drunk’ BMW Gaurav Ahuja parks the car in the middle of the road in Pune and urinates at a busy traffic junction. Now, he is Apologizing for what he did!#pune #ShockingVideo #ViralVideos #WHYvirally pic.twitter.com/38JTvW1JrF — V (@WHYvirally) March 9, 2025 Both Ahuja and Osawal were taken into custody and were confirmed drunk during the incident after a medical check-up. Also read: Watch: Marathon runners' drinks spiked with rum by drunk man in Mexico A case was filed against them under India's criminal law, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and the Motor Vehicles Act for public nuisance, rash and negligent driving, causing danger on public roads and other offences. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Drunk Pune man steps out of BMW, urinates in public, flashes passerby and surrenders

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Friday faced fierce criticism by the BJP as he presented the state budget having multiple pies for the Muslim community. In a blazing attack at the Congress leader, who presented his record 16th budget, the opposition BJP called the fiscal plan a "modern Muslim League budget".

BJP: Karnataka budget allocations unfair and unconstitutional

At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;
This happened after clashes in the northeast Indian state between demonstrators and security forces in the Kuki-dominated district in the aftermath of police firing tear gas to disperse them. The demonstrators opposed Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive, which allowed free movement across the state.
Police said that the deceased has been identified as Lalgouthang Singsit. During the clashes at Keithelmanbi, the 30-year-old received bullet injuries and died on the way to hospital.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-port-city-destroyed-by-massive-rainstorm-13-dead-8835403">Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead</a>
Police said demonstrators clashed with security personnel and pelted stones, leading to injuries.
The situation worsened when protesters set fire to private vehicles. They also attempted to stop a state transport bus travelling from Imphal to Senapati district, police said.&nbsp;
At least 16 protesters sustained different types of injuries during the clashes with security officials at Gamgiphai, Motbung and Keithelmanbi, police said. Police said that they have been admitted to the nearby public health centre for treatment.&nbsp;
Protesters also blocked NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur highway) and burned tyres to obstruct the movement of government vehicles.&nbsp;
At Sekmai, the march of around 10 vehicles was halted by security forces before it could reach Kangpokpi district. "We are just following orders. We have been told to stop the march. If they want to go, they can go in the state buses arranged by the government," a policeman said, adding that they had been told to stop the march as they did not have permission.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-france-germany-italy-back-arab-counterproposal-to-trumps-plan-to-take-over-gaza-8835213" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan</a>
<h2>Amit Shah's recent directive</h2>
Recently, Shah chaired a high-level review meeting on the security situation of Manipur in New Delhi and said that the government remains fully committed to restoring lasting peace in Manipur and providing all necessary assistance.&nbsp;
The Indian home minister had also instructed free movement to be ensured for people on all roads in Manipur from March 8, 2025, asking security officials to take strict action against anyone attempting to create obstructions.&nbsp;
Shah had also directed that the fencing work on both sides of the designated entry points along Manipur's international border be completed as soon as possible. He said that the entire network involved in the drug trade should be dismantled in order to make Manipur drug-free.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-scottish-golf-resort-vandalised-with-gaza-is-not-for-sale-message-8835227" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump&rsquo;s Scottish golf resort vandalised with &lsquo;Gaza is not for sale&rsquo; message</a>
<h2>Manipur violence</h2>
Manipur has remained gripped by recurring bouts of violence since ethnic clashes first erupted in May 2023. The clashes have occurred over a number of issues that both sides have against the other. But the major issue turned out to be a move to give Meiteis Scheduled Tribe status.&nbsp;
Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Meanwhile, tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Learn about the escalation of violence as protesters set vehicles on fire, clashed with police, and blocked highways, leading to heightened tensions in Manipur.

At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported. This happened after clashes in the northeast Indian state between demonstrators and security forces in the Kuki-dominated district in the aftermath of police firing tear gas to disperse them. The demonstrators opposed Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive, which allowed free movement across the state. Police said that the deceased has been identified as Lalgouthang Singsit. During the clashes at Keithelmanbi, the 30-year-old received bullet injuries and died on the way to hospital. Also read: Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead Police said demonstrators clashed with security personnel and pelted stones, leading to injuries. The situation worsened when protesters set fire to private vehicles. They also attempted to stop a state transport bus travelling from Imphal to Senapati district, police said. At least 16 protesters sustained different types of injuries during the clashes with security officials at Gamgiphai, Motbung and Keithelmanbi, police said. Police said that they have been admitted to the nearby public health centre for treatment. Protesters also blocked NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur highway) and burned tyres to obstruct the movement of government vehicles. At Sekmai, the march of around 10 vehicles was halted by security forces before it could reach Kangpokpi district. "We are just following orders. We have been told to stop the march. If they want to go, they can go in the state buses arranged by the government," a policeman said, adding that they had been told to stop the march as they did not have permission. Also read: Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan Amit Shah's recent directive Recently, Shah chaired a high-level review meeting on the security situation of Manipur in New Delhi and said that the government remains fully committed to restoring lasting peace in Manipur and providing all necessary assistance. The Indian home minister had also instructed free movement to be ensured for people on all roads in Manipur from March 8, 2025, asking security officials to take strict action against anyone attempting to create obstructions. Shah had also directed that the fencing work on both sides of the designated entry points along Manipur's international border be completed as soon as possible. He said that the entire network involved in the drug trade should be dismantled in order to make Manipur drug-free. Also read: Trump’s Scottish golf resort vandalised with ‘Gaza is not for sale’ message Manipur violence Manipur has remained gripped by recurring bouts of violence since ethnic clashes first erupted in May 2023. The clashes have occurred over a number of issues that both sides have against the other. But the major issue turned out to be a move to give Meiteis Scheduled Tribe status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Meanwhile, tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts. (With inputs from agencies)

Manipur violence: At least 1 killed, dozens injured; locals defy free movement directive

New Delhi: In the last few weeks, India and Japan have intensified military-diplomatic engagements, with 7th Army-to-Army Staff Talks taking place in Delhi even as Exercise Dharma Guardian is underway in Japan. The 7th Army-to-Army talks took place in Delhi from 6-7th March with focus on &ldquo;annual defence cooperation plans, military education, domain expert exchanges, exploring collaboration in niche technologies, and operational training&rdquo;, said an Army statement. The Japanese side was also briefed on the Indian Army&rsquo;s United Nations peacekeeping operations. Additionally, the Japanese delegation held talks with India&rsquo;s premier military thinktank, Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS).
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Meanwhile, the annual joint military exercises between the Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF), Dharma Guardian, have been underway in Japan&rsquo;s East Fuji Training Area since February 24th and will conclude on Sunday. Started in 2018, the exercises aim to enhance interoperability, foster military cooperation, and strengthen the bilateral defence relationship between India and Japan. The primary goal is to improve combined capabilities for joint operations, with a focus on counter-terrorism, peacekeeping under a United Nations mandate, and operations in semi-urban or jungle environments.
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The exercises alternate between the 2 countries, and the current edition is the 6th edition. An Army statement said, &ldquo;The primary focus of this year&rsquo;s exercise is counter-terrorism operations in urban terrain, a critical area of focus in the current security environment.&rdquo;
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The Army exercises also have key cultural and traditional aspects, including yoga sessions and demonstration of Japanese archery. Dharma Guardian complements other India-Japan military engagements, such as the JIMEX (naval exercise) and Veer Guardian (air force exercise), forming a comprehensive framework of defence cooperation.
The foundation of India-Japan defence ties was significantly bolstered in 2015 when New Delhi and Tokyo inked two pivotal accords: the Agreement concerning the Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology Cooperation and the Agreement concerning Security Measures for the Protection of Classified Military Information. These pacts opened the door to collaboration on sensitive military technology and intelligence sharing.
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Building on this momentum, the two nations took their naval cooperation to new depths in 2018 with the Implementing Arrangement for Deeper Cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).&nbsp;
The partnership reached another milestone in 2020 with the Agreement concerning Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between the Self-Defence Forces of Japan and the Indian Armed Forces. This logistics pact, often likened to the U.S.-India LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement), allows each nation&rsquo;s military to access the other&rsquo;s bases for refuelling, maintenance, and supplies.
Neither Tokyo nor New Delhi frames the collaboration as a direct challenge to Beijing, preferring the language of conversation on Indo-Pacific, but China naturally remains the &ldquo;dragon&rdquo; in the room. In the last few months, ties have leaned towards cautious improvement between China and India and China and Japan, which comes amid the unpredictability injected in global order by the Donald Trump administration in the US.
Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Kazan summit, a meeting that came after almost half a decade, and the first since the Galwan incident, thereby starting the normalisation process, which includes the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, and trading at border posts, among other measures. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi and Japanese PM Shigeru met in November of 2024, and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi visited China to meet FM Wang Yi in December 2024.

India News: Dharma Guardian complements other India-Japan military engagements, such as the JIMEX (naval exercise) and Veer Guardian (air force exercise), forming a comprehensive framework of defence cooperation.

New Delhi: In the last few weeks, India and Japan have intensified military-diplomatic engagements, with 7th Army-to-Army Staff Talks taking place in Delhi even as Exercise Dharma Guardian is underway in Japan. The 7th Army-to-Army talks took place in Delhi from 6-7th March with focus on “annual defence cooperation plans, military education, domain expert exchanges, exploring collaboration in niche technologies, and operational training”, said an Army statement. The Japanese side was also briefed on the Indian Army’s United Nations peacekeeping operations. Additionally, the Japanese delegation held talks with India’s premier military thinktank, Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). Also read: 'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail' Meanwhile, the annual joint military exercises between the Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF), Dharma Guardian, have been underway in Japan’s East Fuji Training Area since February 24th and will conclude on Sunday. Started in 2018, the exercises aim to enhance interoperability, foster military cooperation, and strengthen the bilateral defence relationship between India and Japan. The primary goal is to improve combined capabilities for joint operations, with a focus on counter-terrorism, peacekeeping under a United Nations mandate, and operations in semi-urban or jungle environments. Also read: 'Today’s Ukraine is yesterday’s Afghan': Did Iran's Khamenei predict US' treatment of Zelensky 3 years back? The exercises alternate between the 2 countries, and the current edition is the 6th edition. An Army statement said, “The primary focus of this year’s exercise is counter-terrorism operations in urban terrain, a critical area of focus in the current security environment.” Also read: ‘You’re the troublemaker’: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash The Army exercises also have key cultural and traditional aspects, including yoga sessions and demonstration of Japanese archery. Dharma Guardian complements other India-Japan military engagements, such as the JIMEX (naval exercise) and Veer Guardian (air force exercise), forming a comprehensive framework of defence cooperation. The foundation of India-Japan defence ties was significantly bolstered in 2015 when New Delhi and Tokyo inked two pivotal accords: the Agreement concerning the Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology Cooperation and the Agreement concerning Security Measures for the Protection of Classified Military Information. These pacts opened the door to collaboration on sensitive military technology and intelligence sharing. Also read: Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim Building on this momentum, the two nations took their naval cooperation to new depths in 2018 with the Implementing Arrangement for Deeper Cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The partnership reached another milestone in 2020 with the Agreement concerning Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between the Self-Defence Forces of Japan and the Indian Armed Forces. This logistics pact, often likened to the U.S.-India LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement), allows each nation’s military to access the other’s bases for refuelling, maintenance, and supplies. Neither Tokyo nor New Delhi frames the collaboration as a direct challenge to Beijing, preferring the language of conversation on Indo-Pacific, but China naturally remains the “dragon” in the room. In the last few months, ties have leaned towards cautious improvement between China and India and China and Japan, which comes amid the unpredictability injected in global order by the Donald Trump administration in the US. Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Kazan summit, a meeting that came after almost half a decade, and the first since the Galwan incident, thereby starting the normalisation process, which includes the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, and trading at border posts, among other measures. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi and Japanese PM Shigeru met in November of 2024, and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi visited China to meet FM Wang Yi in December 2024.

India and Japan deepen military engagements

Two women, including an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner, were gang-raped near Hampi in Karnataka on Thursday night. One of the male tourists who was accompanying them was found dead on Saturday morning.&nbsp;
Notably, the two women were accompanied by three male companions, who were also assaulted by the attackers, and one of them was later thrown into the Tungabhadra River canal.&nbsp;
Earlier, the man was reported to be missing after the group attacked the tourists.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-bus-rape-case-accused-dattatray-gade-tried-hanging-himself-thrice-rope-broke-every-time-8768097">Pune bus rape case: Accused Dattatray Gade tried hanging himself thrice, rope broke everytime</a>
Koppal Police said on Saturday afternoon that two local residents, Mallesh and Sai Chetan, were arrested in connection with the horrific incident.
The police said that the incident happened between 1 and 11:30 pm on Thursday near Sanapur Lake, which is located roughly 4 km from Hampi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-rape-case-who-is-dattatraya-ramdas-gade-36-year-old-accused-with-prior-criminal-record-8761289">Pune rape case: Who is Dattatraya Ramdas Gade? 36-year-old accused with prior criminal record</a>
<h2>What exactly happened?&nbsp;</h2>
Four tourists, including an Israeli woman, and three males from Odisha, the US, and Maharashtra, respectively, and their female homestay owner, had gone stargazing after dinner.
The group was sitting by the bank of the Tungabhadra Canal near the lake, playing guitar and enjoying music while stargazing, police said.&nbsp;
While they were enjoying the view, three bike-borne men approached the group and asked them for directions to a petrol pump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lokayukta-gives-clean-chit-to-karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-in-muda-allotment-probe-8738353">Lokayukta gives clean chit to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah in MUDA allotment probe</a>
The homestay owner informed those people that there was no station nearby. The individuals then started demanding cash from the group.&nbsp;
After refusal, the individuals who spoke Kannada and Telugu misbehaved with the group and began assaulting them.&nbsp;
The homestay owner filed the complaint, saying that the attackers pushed the male tourists into a canal. While they struggled to come out of the water, two of the three attackers raped her and the Israeli tourist.&nbsp;
The accused dragged the homestay owner to the side of the canal, where one of them tried to strangle her and remove her clothes, according to the details of the FIR, as reported by PTI.&nbsp;
The two of them then thrashed and raped her. They also snatched her bag, stealing two mobile phones and Rs 9500.&nbsp;
The third attacker dragged the Israeli tourist to a spot and raped her. The men later fled on the motorcycle.&nbsp;
Notably, Maharashtra's Pankaj and US's Daniel managed to rescue themselves from the canal and are undergoing treatment at a government hospital.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hmpv-in-india-gujarat-karnataka-report-first-cases-of-virus-8595506">HMPV in India: Cases found in Gujarat, Karnataka, Kolkata. What you should know</a>
However, the tourist from Odisha failed to come out, and his body was found this morning, police said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: The two women were accompanied by three male companions, who were also assaulted by the attackers, and one of them was later thrown into the Tungabhadra River canal.

Two women, including an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner, were gang-raped near Hampi in Karnataka on Thursday night. One of the male tourists who was accompanying them was found dead on Saturday morning. Notably, the two women were accompanied by three male companions, who were also assaulted by the attackers, and one of them was later thrown into the Tungabhadra River canal. Earlier, the man was reported to be missing after the group attacked the tourists. Also read: Pune bus rape case: Accused Dattatray Gade tried hanging himself thrice, rope broke everytime Koppal Police said on Saturday afternoon that two local residents, Mallesh and Sai Chetan, were arrested in connection with the horrific incident. The police said that the incident happened between 1 and 11:30 pm on Thursday near Sanapur Lake, which is located roughly 4 km from Hampi. Also read: Pune rape case: Who is Dattatraya Ramdas Gade? 36-year-old accused with prior criminal record What exactly happened? Four tourists, including an Israeli woman, and three males from Odisha, the US, and Maharashtra, respectively, and their female homestay owner, had gone stargazing after dinner. The group was sitting by the bank of the Tungabhadra Canal near the lake, playing guitar and enjoying music while stargazing, police said. While they were enjoying the view, three bike-borne men approached the group and asked them for directions to a petrol pump. Also read: Lokayukta gives clean chit to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah in MUDA allotment probe The homestay owner informed those people that there was no station nearby. The individuals then started demanding cash from the group. After refusal, the individuals who spoke Kannada and Telugu misbehaved with the group and began assaulting them. The homestay owner filed the complaint, saying that the attackers pushed the male tourists into a canal. While they struggled to come out of the water, two of the three attackers raped her and the Israeli tourist. The accused dragged the homestay owner to the side of the canal, where one of them tried to strangle her and remove her clothes, according to the details of the FIR, as reported by PTI. The two of them then thrashed and raped her. They also snatched her bag, stealing two mobile phones and Rs 9500. The third attacker dragged the Israeli tourist to a spot and raped her. The men later fled on the motorcycle. Notably, Maharashtra's Pankaj and US's Daniel managed to rescue themselves from the canal and are undergoing treatment at a government hospital. Also read: HMPV in India: Cases found in Gujarat, Karnataka, Kolkata. What you should know However, the tourist from Odisha failed to come out, and his body was found this morning, police said. (With inputs from agencies)

Two women including Israeli tourist raped, male friend killed while stargazing in Karnataka’s Hampi; two arrested

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Saturday (8 March 2025) that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 per month to women.
A budget of ₹5,100 crore has been allocated for the initiative, which was part of the BJP&rsquo;s election manifesto under the name Mahila Samriddhi Yojana. The scheme aims to offer financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-are-they-to-question-us-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-and-aap-leader-atishi-bicker-over-election-promises-8742908">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises'</a>
<h2>Scheme approved on Women&rsquo;s Day</h2>
&ldquo;Today is Women's Day. We had our cabinet meeting today, and our cabinet has approved the scheme &ndash; the promise that we made during the Delhi elections to provide ₹2,500 to the women,&rdquo; said Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8057k93-gixhgdvy-ytbdggir">
महिला दिवस पर नारी सशक्तिकरण की दिशा में ऐतिहासिक कदम! महिला दिवस के अवसर पर दिल्ली की माताओं-बहनों से किया गया वादा पूरा करते हुए हमारी सरकार ने महिला समृद्धि योजना के लिए ₹5100 करोड़ आवंटित किए हैं। जल्द ही हर पात्र महिला को ₹2500 प्रति माह दिए जाएँगे, जिससे वे आर्थिक रूप से&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5wizylNilH">pic.twitter.com/5wizylNilH</a>
&mdash; Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) <a href="https://twitter.com/gupta_rekha/status/1898318883024429137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
She further said, &ldquo;We made a provision of ₹5,100 crores in the Delhi budget for the implementation of the scheme. We have formed the committee, which will be led by me, and the registration for the scheme will begin soon &ndash; a portal will be launched soon.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-delhis-4th-woman-cm-holds-10-key-portfolios-including-finance-and-womens-development-8743107">Rekha Gupta, Delhi&rsquo;s 4th woman CM, holds 10 key portfolios, including finance and women's development</a>
However, Gupta did not clarify the exact eligibility criteria or the number of beneficiaries expected to receive the financial aid.
<h2>'Modi Ki Guarantee'</h2>
During the Delhi Assembly election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured that the scheme would be approved in the first cabinet meeting of the BJP government. He had also referred to it as &ldquo;Modi ki guarantee&rdquo; and promised that payments would start by 8 March.
<h2>AAP questions the delay</h2>
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which was ousted from power in Delhi, criticised the BJP for not implementing the scheme immediately.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8057qsz-7fevqv4o-crwsicmm">
दिल्ली की सभी महिलाओं को अंतरराष्ट्रीय महिला दिवस की बधाई। आज दिल्ली की सब महिलायें अपने फ़ोन को ताक कर इंतज़ार कर रही हैं कि ₹2500 बैंक में जमा होने का मैसेज उनके फ़ोन पर कब आयेगा। <a href="https://t.co/m7PYg5ciUn">pic.twitter.com/m7PYg5ciUn</a>
&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1898220543431622812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-first-act-as-delhi-cm-grand-yamuna-aarti-with-bjp-ministers-watch-8741057">Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s first action as Delhi CM? Grand &lsquo;Yamuna aarti&rsquo; with&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;ministers&nbsp;|&nbsp;Watch</a>
&ldquo;Before the Delhi elections, Modi and BJP national president JP Nadda had assured that in the very first cabinet meeting, the scheme will be approved and every woman in Delhi will receive ₹2,500 in her bank account by March 8. The first cabinet meeting took place on Thursday evening, but there was no such announcement,&rdquo; said Delhi&rsquo;s Leader of Opposition, Atishi.
She added, "Women have phones out, waiting for ₹2,500."
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<h2>BJP&rsquo;s victory in Delhi</h2>
The BJP made a strong comeback in Delhi, securing 48 out of 70 seats in the Assembly election. This marked its return to power in the capital after 26 years. AAP was reduced to 22 seats, while the Congress failed to win any.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: “Today is Women's Day. We had our cabinet meeting today, and our cabinet has approved the scheme – the promise that we made during the Delhi elections to provide ₹2,500 to the women,” said Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Saturday (8 March 2025) that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 per month to women. A budget of ₹5,100 crore has been allocated for the initiative, which was part of the BJP’s election manifesto under the name Mahila Samriddhi Yojana. The scheme aims to offer financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections. Also read: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises' Scheme approved on Women’s Day “Today is Women's Day. We had our cabinet meeting today, and our cabinet has approved the scheme – the promise that we made during the Delhi elections to provide ₹2,500 to the women,” said Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. महिला दिवस पर नारी सशक्तिकरण की दिशा में ऐतिहासिक कदम! महिला दिवस के अवसर पर दिल्ली की माताओं-बहनों से किया गया वादा पूरा करते हुए हमारी सरकार ने महिला समृद्धि योजना के लिए ₹5100 करोड़ आवंटित किए हैं। जल्द ही हर पात्र महिला को ₹2500 प्रति माह दिए जाएँगे, जिससे वे आर्थिक रूप से… pic.twitter.com/5wizylNilH — Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) March 8, 2025 She further said, “We made a provision of ₹5,100 crores in the Delhi budget for the implementation of the scheme. We have formed the committee, which will be led by me, and the registration for the scheme will begin soon – a portal will be launched soon.” Also read: Rekha Gupta, Delhi’s 4th woman CM, holds 10 key portfolios, including finance and women's development However, Gupta did not clarify the exact eligibility criteria or the number of beneficiaries expected to receive the financial aid. 'Modi Ki Guarantee' During the Delhi Assembly election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured that the scheme would be approved in the first cabinet meeting of the BJP government. He had also referred to it as “Modi ki guarantee” and promised that payments would start by 8 March. AAP questions the delay The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which was ousted from power in Delhi, criticised the BJP for not implementing the scheme immediately. दिल्ली की सभी महिलाओं को अंतरराष्ट्रीय महिला दिवस की बधाई। आज दिल्ली की सब महिलायें अपने फ़ोन को ताक कर इंतज़ार कर रही हैं कि ₹2500 बैंक में जमा होने का मैसेज उनके फ़ोन पर कब आयेगा। pic.twitter.com/m7PYg5ciUn — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) March 8, 2025 Also read: Rekha Gupta’s first action as Delhi CM? Grand ‘Yamuna aarti’ with BJP ministers | Watch “Before the Delhi elections, Modi and BJP national president JP Nadda had assured that in the very first cabinet meeting, the scheme will be approved and every woman in Delhi will receive ₹2,500 in her bank account by March 8. The first cabinet meeting took place on Thursday evening, but there was no such announcement,” said Delhi’s Leader of Opposition, Atishi. She added, "Women have phones out, waiting for ₹2,500." Also read: Arvind Kejriwal to enter Rajya Sabha? AAP’s move sparks speculation BJP’s victory in Delhi The BJP made a strong comeback in Delhi, securing 48 out of 70 seats in the Assembly election. This marked its return to power in the capital after 26 years. AAP was reduced to 22 seats, while the Congress failed to win any. (With inputs from agencies)

On Women's Day, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta approves ₹2,500 monthly aid for women; AAP's Atishi says ‘still waiting’

Inputs from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and action by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) led to the seizure of narcotics worth $3.8 million, or Rs. 33 crore. The seized narcotics were being smuggled via sea route from Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu in southern India to Male, Maldives. According to authorities, the seized contraband was confirmed to be Hashish oil, a concentrated cannabis extract. Hashish oil, or Hash oil, is known to have a significantly higher amount of psychoactive chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration than other cannabis products. Pictures show that the contraband was being smuggled in packets bearing markings of branded grocery items.
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In the afternoon hours of Wednesday, 5th March, DRI had shared inputs about a possible drug consignment aboard the tugboat Shwe Lin Yone, which was towing a barge from Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu to Male in the Maldives. That night, two Indian Coast Guard vessels intercepted the suspected tugboat south of the Gulf of Mannar, the waters between southern coastal Tamil Nadu and Western Sri Lanka.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-canada-with-250pc-tariffs-on-dairy-slams-trudeaus-nation-for-cheating-us-farmers-8832659" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers</a>
A boarding team from the ICG ships apprehended the crew of the suspected vessel, following which the ICG ships escorted the apprehended vessels (tugboat and barge being towed) for 40 hours, finally bringing them to Tuticorin port for further procedures.&nbsp;
On Friday, 7th March afternoon, the nine crew members of the vessels were handed over to the DRI, and the contraband was confirmed to be 30 kg of Hashish oil. Further legal action is being undertaken in this matter, said authorities.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-built-up-trust-zelenskys-approval-rating-surges-to-68-per-cent-after-showdown-with-trump-8831282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump</a>

India News: The seized contraband was confirmed to be Hashish oil, a concentrated cannabis extract. Hashish oil has a significantly higher amount of psychoactive chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration than other cannabis products.

Inputs from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and action by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) led to the seizure of narcotics worth $3.8 million, or Rs. 33 crore. The seized narcotics were being smuggled via sea route from Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu in southern India to Male, Maldives. According to authorities, the seized contraband was confirmed to be Hashish oil, a concentrated cannabis extract. Hashish oil, or Hash oil, is known to have a significantly higher amount of psychoactive chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration than other cannabis products. Pictures show that the contraband was being smuggled in packets bearing markings of branded grocery items. Also Read | 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Rana's plea opposing extradition to India rejected by US court In the afternoon hours of Wednesday, 5th March, DRI had shared inputs about a possible drug consignment aboard the tugboat Shwe Lin Yone, which was towing a barge from Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu to Male in the Maldives. That night, two Indian Coast Guard vessels intercepted the suspected tugboat south of the Gulf of Mannar, the waters between southern coastal Tamil Nadu and Western Sri Lanka. Also read | Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers A boarding team from the ICG ships apprehended the crew of the suspected vessel, following which the ICG ships escorted the apprehended vessels (tugboat and barge being towed) for 40 hours, finally bringing them to Tuticorin port for further procedures. On Friday, 7th March afternoon, the nine crew members of the vessels were handed over to the DRI, and the contraband was confirmed to be 30 kg of Hashish oil. Further legal action is being undertaken in this matter, said authorities. Also read | Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump

Narcotics worth $3.8mn seized on way to Maldives from Tamil Nadu

The Italian Ambassador to India Antonio Bartoli has pitched for Trieste port as key to the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor, a key economic corridor that was launched at the Delhi G20 summit. The Port of Trieste, located in northeastern Italy on the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most significant and strategically positioned ports in Europe.&nbsp;
Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "Trieste &nbsp;is the best way, because once you arrive at Trieste, which is north of the Adriatic Sea...you are in the middle of Europe and infrastructures, because when you consider a port, you have to consider the infrastructures behind the port. So if there are trains, highways and so on, which is the case of Trieste".&nbsp;
Historically, the port thrived under the Habsburg Empire (Austro-Hungarian Empire), earning &ldquo;free port&rdquo; status. Merchants from the Ottoman Empire, Britain, and India once flocked there, using its deep, sheltered harbor in the Gulf of Trieste to dock large vessels, making it a gateway to Europe.
The ambassador spoke at length on India-Italy ties, pointing to joint action plans and how the personal chemistry of the leaders has helped the relationship. He pointed out, "Indian and the Italian Prime Ministers have met five times, and the last one was in November, and they signed a joint action plan to give concrete contents to our strategic partnership."&nbsp;
The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, a comprehensive framework between the 2 countries, was announced in November 2024 during a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This five-year plan builds on the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, aiming to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors, including increasing economic engagements.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: How do you see this relationship which is on a very positive trajectory?
Antonio Bartoli: In two years, both the Indian and the Italian Prime Ministers have met five times, and the last one was in November, and they signed a joint action plan to give concrete contents to our strategic partnership. What does it mean. It means to identify, in a very pragmatic way, 10 areas of collaboration on which to focus, starting, of course, from structured political dialogue. We had the visit of Minister of Industry, the Ministry of Defense will come, The two deputy ministers of foreign affairs and defence came, and we will have, in April, on the 10th and 11th of April, a big business science and technology forum with a large delegation, both of companies and of universities and research centres, led by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of university research. So this is a practical demonstration that we want to go beyond rhetorical slogans and implement what we have planned to do.
Sidhant Sibal: The personal chemistry between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Italian Prime Minister, how has it helped in the relationship?
Antonio Bartoli: Very much so, because, you know, this applies to many leaders, because in contemporary politics, the personal chemistry between leaders is crucial. Now is crucial. But is it enough? I don't think so. I mean, you cannot just rely on personal chemistry between two persons, even if at the top of their responsibilities. In this case, #Melodi is based on concrete complementarities. I will give you some examples, history and geography. We were trading partners at the time of the Roman Empire, the Golden Road between the empire of Augustus in Rome and the south of India, trading wine and black pepper was already there, 2000 years ago. And I think this IMEE or India Middle East Europe corridor is just a re-edition of what already existed. You want to develop a robust industrial manufacturing system. We are the second industrial powerhouse in Europe, and we are very good at machinery. So there is objective complementarity. Mobility, you have a huge labour basin. We have gaps in our labour market. So, we signed a mobility agreement to make it a win - win situation. So we will bring to Italy qualified (Indian) personnel, provided they are skilled here, beyond the quotas of migration. I gave you three examples in history, geography and the labor market that demonstrate that there are all the conditions to make it a real and thriving and growing partnership.
Sidhant Sibal: India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, announced in Delhi, how do you see the Italian role in terms of being an important partner in making sure that this connectivity project sees the light of the day?
Antonio Bartoli: You know, the concept of Indo Pacific was invented by Shinzo Abe, the former Prime Minister of Japan, and he talked about the convergence of two seas. And we are talking about the convergence of three seas, the Indo Pacific and the Mediterranean. If you join that, you have 60% of the global trade, 70% of the investments. And so, as I said, history demonstrates that this was already happening 2000 years ago. Of course, it has to happen now, not only for goods, that time it was black pepper. But also, for data, data is new gold. An Italian company is putting a cable that will connect Mumbai to Genoa, north of Italy, and will be a high-speed data highway. Of course, there is a crisis in the Middle East. We hope that this ceasefire will stabilize. This is a great vision, but peace is a precondition to realize this. But at the same time, IMEE is also a powerful factor of stabilization of that region and of shared prosperity for all of us. So we are the natural terminal of that road. Probably Trieste is the best way, because once you arrive at Trieste, which is north of the Adriatic Sea, not by chance, was the port of the Austrian Hungarian empire, you are in the middle of Europe and infrastructures, because when you consider a port, you have to consider the infrastructures behind the port. So if there are trains, highways and so on, which is the case of Trieste.

The ambassador spoke at length on India-Italy ties, pointing to joint action plans and how the personal chemistry of the leaders has helped the relationship.

The Italian Ambassador to India Antonio Bartoli has pitched for Trieste port as key to the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor, a key economic corridor that was launched at the Delhi G20 summit. The Port of Trieste, located in northeastern Italy on the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most significant and strategically positioned ports in Europe. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he said, "Trieste is the best way, because once you arrive at Trieste, which is north of the Adriatic Sea...you are in the middle of Europe and infrastructures, because when you consider a port, you have to consider the infrastructures behind the port. So if there are trains, highways and so on, which is the case of Trieste". Historically, the port thrived under the Habsburg Empire (Austro-Hungarian Empire), earning “free port” status. Merchants from the Ottoman Empire, Britain, and India once flocked there, using its deep, sheltered harbor in the Gulf of Trieste to dock large vessels, making it a gateway to Europe. The ambassador spoke at length on India-Italy ties, pointing to joint action plans and how the personal chemistry of the leaders has helped the relationship. He pointed out, "Indian and the Italian Prime Ministers have met five times, and the last one was in November, and they signed a joint action plan to give concrete contents to our strategic partnership." The India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, a comprehensive framework between the 2 countries, was announced in November 2024 during a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This five-year plan builds on the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, aiming to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors, including increasing economic engagements. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see this relationship which is on a very positive trajectory? Antonio Bartoli: In two years, both the Indian and the Italian Prime Ministers have met five times, and the last one was in November, and they signed a joint action plan to give concrete contents to our strategic partnership. What does it mean. It means to identify, in a very pragmatic way, 10 areas of collaboration on which to focus, starting, of course, from structured political dialogue. We had the visit of Minister of Industry, the Ministry of Defense will come, The two deputy ministers of foreign affairs and defence came, and we will have, in April, on the 10th and 11th of April, a big business science and technology forum with a large delegation, both of companies and of universities and research centres, led by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of university research. So this is a practical demonstration that we want to go beyond rhetorical slogans and implement what we have planned to do. Sidhant Sibal: The personal chemistry between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Italian Prime Minister, how has it helped in the relationship? Antonio Bartoli: Very much so, because, you know, this applies to many leaders, because in contemporary politics, the personal chemistry between leaders is crucial. Now is crucial. But is it enough? I don't think so. I mean, you cannot just rely on personal chemistry between two persons, even if at the top of their responsibilities. In this case, #Melodi is based on concrete complementarities. I will give you some examples, history and geography. We were trading partners at the time of the Roman Empire, the Golden Road between the empire of Augustus in Rome and the south of India, trading wine and black pepper was already there, 2000 years ago. And I think this IMEE or India Middle East Europe corridor is just a re-edition of what already existed. You want to develop a robust industrial manufacturing system. We are the second industrial powerhouse in Europe, and we are very good at machinery. So there is objective complementarity. Mobility, you have a huge labour basin. We have gaps in our labour market. So, we signed a mobility agreement to make it a win - win situation. So we will bring to Italy qualified (Indian) personnel, provided they are skilled here, beyond the quotas of migration. I gave you three examples in history, geography and the labor market that demonstrate that there are all the conditions to make it a real and thriving and growing partnership. Sidhant Sibal: India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, announced in Delhi, how do you see the Italian role in terms of being an important partner in making sure that this connectivity project sees the light of the day? Antonio Bartoli: You know, the concept of Indo Pacific was invented by Shinzo Abe, the former Prime Minister of Japan, and he talked about the convergence of two seas. And we are talking about the convergence of three seas, the Indo Pacific and the Mediterranean. If you join that, you have 60% of the global trade, 70% of the investments. And so, as I said, history demonstrates that this was already happening 2000 years ago. Of course, it has to happen now, not only for goods, that time it was black pepper. But also, for data, data is new gold. An Italian company is putting a cable that will connect Mumbai to Genoa, north of Italy, and will be a high-speed data highway. Of course, there is a crisis in the Middle East. We hope that this ceasefire will stabilize. This is a great vision, but peace is a precondition to realize this. But at the same time, IMEE is also a powerful factor of stabilization of that region and of shared prosperity for all of us. So we are the natural terminal of that road. Probably Trieste is the best way, because once you arrive at Trieste, which is north of the Adriatic Sea, not by chance, was the port of the Austrian Hungarian empire, you are in the middle of Europe and infrastructures, because when you consider a port, you have to consider the infrastructures behind the port. So if there are trains, highways and so on, which is the case of Trieste.

Italian Ambassador pitches Trieste Port as vital link in India-Middle East-Europe Corridor

Italian Senator Matteo Gelmetti has termed India as a "perfect partner" of his country, especially in IT sector &amp; pointed to personal camaraderie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the senator who is member of the India-Italy parliamentary friendship group said, "PM Modi knows European politics and he knows Giorgia Meloni very well....Giorgia Meloni &nbsp;is, I think, the European best friend of PM Modi".&nbsp;
India-Italy relations have seen significant upward trajectory in the last several years, marked by a strengthening of diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties. In November 2024, during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni announced the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, outlining a roadmap for enhanced collaboration over the next five years. PM Meloni had visited India in March 2023, during which bilateral relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership.
Senator Matteo Gelmetti, elected as a senator from ruling "Brothers of Italy" party, represents Padova-Verona-Vicenza constituency in Veneto, a region known for its economic significance. Before his Senate role, he was a municipal councilor in Verona from 2002 to 2012 and later a regional councilor in Veneto from 2015 to 2022.
Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India, Italy relationship?
Senator Matteo Gelmetti: The relationship between India and Italy is stronger, but this is the time, I think it can be increased, because the relationship between your PM Modi &amp; our PM Giorgia Meloni is perfect. They have a good relations. So I think this good relation can improve our relationship between the two countries. We can see custom duty war in the world. After the visit of EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen, one week ago, there could be a new relation between Europe and India, and if this relation can reduce the custom duty between the 2 sides, I think you can have a great marriage between Europe and India.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canadas-intel-chief-to-visit-india-to-attend-annual-intelligence-gathering-8832280" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Exclusive: Canada's intel chief to visit India to attend annual intelligence gathering</a> 
Sidhant Sibal: &nbsp;So you mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your leader, the Italian leader, the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, the conversations which have happened signal towards not only personal chemistry, but also the leaders being on the same page in terms of various issues. So how do you see the leadership conversation helping in the bilateral relationship?&nbsp;
Senator Matteo Gelmetti: I think PM Modi knows European politics and he knows Giorgia Meloni very well. He knows very well that Italy now is the country in Europe stronger with our great leadership, so could be the first partner in Europe for the relationship between India and Europe. Giorgia Meloni &nbsp;is, I think, the European best friend of PM Modi.
Sidhant Sibal: If we talk about India's outreach to Italy, how do you see that? How do you see the India Middle East Europe corridor?
Senator Matteo Gelmetti: The corridor IMEE or India Middle East Europe corridor, I think, is very, very important, very important to increase our trade relationship. And Italy is the terminal with its main port, the port of Trieste, that is the gate of Europe. So I think that all actors or countries know very well that the port of IMEC in Europe has to be Trieste.
Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India in economic terms, a destination for investments?
Senator Matteo Gelmetti: For us, India is important, first of all, for the IT field, so innovation in the future, for us India is the perfect partner, the relationship we want to increase through the IT field.
Sidhant Sibal: The rise of Georgia Meloni as one of the most important politicians in Europe. How do you see her rise, the rise of Italy and essentially a new leader rising in the European political space?
Senator Matteo Gelmetti: Georgia Meloni is, for sure, the most important politician in Europe. In fact, PM Modi knows very well, but not only Modi, but President Trump has a very good relationship with Georgia Meloni. This is an example of someone who wants to create the economic growth, wants to create business, and wants to create something good for his country, speaks to the decision maker and Georgia Meloni now is the European decision maker.

India-Italy relations have seen significant upward trajectory in the last several years, marked by a strengthening of diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties | India News

Italian Senator Matteo Gelmetti has termed India as a "perfect partner" of his country, especially in IT sector & pointed to personal camaraderie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the senator who is member of the India-Italy parliamentary friendship group said, "PM Modi knows European politics and he knows Giorgia Meloni very well....Giorgia Meloni is, I think, the European best friend of PM Modi". India-Italy relations have seen significant upward trajectory in the last several years, marked by a strengthening of diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties. In November 2024, during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni announced the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, outlining a roadmap for enhanced collaboration over the next five years. PM Meloni had visited India in March 2023, during which bilateral relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership. Senator Matteo Gelmetti, elected as a senator from ruling "Brothers of Italy" party, represents Padova-Verona-Vicenza constituency in Veneto, a region known for its economic significance. Before his Senate role, he was a municipal councilor in Verona from 2002 to 2012 and later a regional councilor in Veneto from 2015 to 2022. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India, Italy relationship? Senator Matteo Gelmetti: The relationship between India and Italy is stronger, but this is the time, I think it can be increased, because the relationship between your PM Modi & our PM Giorgia Meloni is perfect. They have a good relations. So I think this good relation can improve our relationship between the two countries. We can see custom duty war in the world. After the visit of EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen, one week ago, there could be a new relation between Europe and India, and if this relation can reduce the custom duty between the 2 sides, I think you can have a great marriage between Europe and India. Also Read: Exclusive: Canada's intel chief to visit India to attend annual intelligence gathering Sidhant Sibal: So you mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your leader, the Italian leader, the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, the conversations which have happened signal towards not only personal chemistry, but also the leaders being on the same page in terms of various issues. So how do you see the leadership conversation helping in the bilateral relationship? Senator Matteo Gelmetti: I think PM Modi knows European politics and he knows Giorgia Meloni very well. He knows very well that Italy now is the country in Europe stronger with our great leadership, so could be the first partner in Europe for the relationship between India and Europe. Giorgia Meloni is, I think, the European best friend of PM Modi. Sidhant Sibal: If we talk about India's outreach to Italy, how do you see that? How do you see the India Middle East Europe corridor? Senator Matteo Gelmetti: The corridor IMEE or India Middle East Europe corridor, I think, is very, very important, very important to increase our trade relationship. And Italy is the terminal with its main port, the port of Trieste, that is the gate of Europe. So I think that all actors or countries know very well that the port of IMEC in Europe has to be Trieste. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India in economic terms, a destination for investments? Senator Matteo Gelmetti: For us, India is important, first of all, for the IT field, so innovation in the future, for us India is the perfect partner, the relationship we want to increase through the IT field. Sidhant Sibal: The rise of Georgia Meloni as one of the most important politicians in Europe. How do you see her rise, the rise of Italy and essentially a new leader rising in the European political space? Senator Matteo Gelmetti: Georgia Meloni is, for sure, the most important politician in Europe. In fact, PM Modi knows very well, but not only Modi, but President Trump has a very good relationship with Georgia Meloni. This is an example of someone who wants to create the economic growth, wants to create business, and wants to create something good for his country, speaks to the decision maker and Georgia Meloni now is the European decision maker.

India is Italy's 'Perfect Partner', says Italian Senator Gelmetti

The United States Supreme Court has rejected an "emergency application" by 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana opposing his extradition to India. He claimed that he will be tortured in India because he is a Pakistani Muslim.&nbsp;
Rana - who is a Canadian with origin from Pakistan - filed an Emergency Application For Stay" with the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and Circuit Justice for the Ninth Circuit.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-soon-be-dead-2611-mumbai-terror-attack-accused-tahawwur-rana-alleges-torture-if-extradited-to-india-8828823">&lsquo;Will soon be dead&rsquo;: 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana alleges &lsquo;torture&rsquo; if extradited to India</a>
Rana said in his petition that his extradition to India violates the US law "because there are substantial grounds for believing that, if extradited to India, petitioner will be in danger of being subjected to torture."
<figure class="image"><img alt="Tahawwur Rana" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/987x1258/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/08/lktHeNdpjQW6P2vYVGWQ.jpeg" style="width: 987px;">
<figcaption></figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;"The likelihood of torture in this case is even higher though as petitioner faces acute risk as a Muslim of Pakistani origin charged in the Mumbai attacks," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-story-0/who-is-tahawwur-rana-mastermind-of-2611-attack-in-mumbai-8720343">Who is Tahawwur Rana, mastermind of 26/11 attack in Mumbai set to be extradited to India from US?</a>
The filing further claimed that his "severe medical conditions" render extradition to Indian detention facilities, a "de facto" death sentence in this case. It had cited July 2024 showing that he has multiple "acute and life-threatening diagnoses". He had multiple heart attacks, as per his medical records.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/2611-mumbai-attack-plotter-hafiz-abdul-rahman-makki-dies-of-heart-attack-in-pakistan-8570423">26/11 Mumbai attack plotter Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki dies of 'heart attack'&nbsp;in&nbsp;Pakistan</a>
Parkinson's disease with cognitive decline, a mass suggestive of bladder cancer, stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and a history of chronic asthma, and multiple COVID-19 infections - are other issues that his medical records claim he suffers from.&nbsp;
"If a stay is not entered, there will be no review at all, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and the petitioner will soon be dead," Rana said in an appeal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-extradition-of-2611-accused-very-evil-tahawwur-rana-to-india-8719305">US approves extradition of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict Tahawwur Rana to India</a>

WORLD | INDIA NEWS | Rana said in his petition that his extradition to India violates the US law and "because there are substantial grounds for believing that, if extradited to India, petitioner will be in danger of being subjected to torture."

The United States Supreme Court has rejected an "emergency application" by 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana opposing his extradition to India. He claimed that he will be tortured in India because he is a Pakistani Muslim. Rana - who is a Canadian with origin from Pakistan - filed an Emergency Application For Stay" with the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and Circuit Justice for the Ninth Circuit. Also read: ‘Will soon be dead’: 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana alleges ‘torture’ if extradited to India Rana said in his petition that his extradition to India violates the US law "because there are substantial grounds for believing that, if extradited to India, petitioner will be in danger of being subjected to torture." "The likelihood of torture in this case is even higher though as petitioner faces acute risk as a Muslim of Pakistani origin charged in the Mumbai attacks," he added. Also read: Who is Tahawwur Rana, mastermind of 26/11 attack in Mumbai set to be extradited to India from US? The filing further claimed that his "severe medical conditions" render extradition to Indian detention facilities, a "de facto" death sentence in this case. It had cited July 2024 showing that he has multiple "acute and life-threatening diagnoses". He had multiple heart attacks, as per his medical records. Also read: 26/11 Mumbai attack plotter Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki dies of 'heart attack' in Pakistan Parkinson's disease with cognitive decline, a mass suggestive of bladder cancer, stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and a history of chronic asthma, and multiple COVID-19 infections - are other issues that his medical records claim he suffers from. "If a stay is not entered, there will be no review at all, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and the petitioner will soon be dead," Rana said in an appeal. Also read: US approves extradition of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict Tahawwur Rana to India

26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Rana's plea opposing extradition to India rejected by US court

Women have been inducted in the Indian Navy since the last three decades and the contribution of women officers has been evolving every year. WION gives you a glimpse into growing women's power in the Indian Navy.

WION Ground Report: Indian navy's women officers serve on warships, planes and choppers, naval bases

WION Ground Report: Indian navy's women officers take to skies

The chief of Canada's national security agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service's (CSIS) Daniel Rogers is set to visit India for the annual intelligence gathering due to take place in mid March. Rogers, who was appointed director of CSIS in February, was previously Deputy National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Canadian Prime Minister, with a career rooted in national security and intelligence spanning over two decades.
The visit comes amid strained India Canada ties. Relations hit a low point in 2023 when outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India rejected these claims as baseless, accusing Canada of harbouring Khalistani extremists.&nbsp;
Four Indian nationals&mdash;Karan Brar, Kamalpreet Singh, Karanpreet Singh, and Amandeep Singh&mdash;were arrested by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in May 2024, charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder of Nijjar who is listed as a terrorist by India and had an active role in promoting Khalistani ideology. In October 2024, ties were further strained after India withdrew its high commissioner Sanjay Verma, and expelled Canada&rsquo;s acting High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler.&nbsp;
Trudeau&rsquo;s resignation on January 6, 2025, after a decade in office, offers a possible reset. This Sunday, Canada's liberal party will announce its new leader to replace Justin Trudeau. The winner will become Canada&rsquo;s next prime minister until a federal election is called later this year.&nbsp;
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According to political buzz, Mark Carney, who was in the past governor of Bank of Canada, could be the next leader of the liberal party and the Canadian Prime Minister. In a recent remark, he said that he would like to rebuild ties with India, if he comes the next Prime Minister of the country. Other notable candidates include Chrystia Freeland, ex-finance minister and deputy PM.&nbsp;
India hosts an annual gathering of the intelligence chiefs, which is led by India&rsquo;s National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). UK this time will be represented by its National security advisor Jonathan Powell. &nbsp;Other countries who will be present at the gathering include many western partners of India, from many countries of west Asia, including Saudi Arabia and representation from Russia as well. The initiative, which is happening for the 4th consecutive year, started in 2022. Last year, intel chiefs and representative from 25 countries participated. The agenda often reflects contemporary global issues, with key focus on counter terror and global conflicts.

Other countries who will be present at the gathering include many western partners of India, several countries of west Asia, including Saudi Arabia and representation from Russia as well.

The chief of Canada's national security agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service's (CSIS) Daniel Rogers is set to visit India for the annual intelligence gathering due to take place in mid March. Rogers, who was appointed director of CSIS in February, was previously Deputy National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Canadian Prime Minister, with a career rooted in national security and intelligence spanning over two decades. The visit comes amid strained India Canada ties. Relations hit a low point in 2023 when outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India rejected these claims as baseless, accusing Canada of harbouring Khalistani extremists. Four Indian nationals—Karan Brar, Kamalpreet Singh, Karanpreet Singh, and Amandeep Singh—were arrested by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in May 2024, charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder of Nijjar who is listed as a terrorist by India and had an active role in promoting Khalistani ideology. In October 2024, ties were further strained after India withdrew its high commissioner Sanjay Verma, and expelled Canada’s acting High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler. Trudeau’s resignation on January 6, 2025, after a decade in office, offers a possible reset. This Sunday, Canada's liberal party will announce its new leader to replace Justin Trudeau. The winner will become Canada’s next prime minister until a federal election is called later this year. Also Read: Indian government changes rules for new passport: Here's all you need to know According to political buzz, Mark Carney, who was in the past governor of Bank of Canada, could be the next leader of the liberal party and the Canadian Prime Minister. In a recent remark, he said that he would like to rebuild ties with India, if he comes the next Prime Minister of the country. Other notable candidates include Chrystia Freeland, ex-finance minister and deputy PM. India hosts an annual gathering of the intelligence chiefs, which is led by India’s National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). UK this time will be represented by its National security advisor Jonathan Powell. Other countries who will be present at the gathering include many western partners of India, from many countries of west Asia, including Saudi Arabia and representation from Russia as well. The initiative, which is happening for the 4th consecutive year, started in 2022. Last year, intel chiefs and representative from 25 countries participated. The agenda often reflects contemporary global issues, with key focus on counter terror and global conflicts.

Exclusive: Canada's intel chief to visit India to attend annual intelligence gathering

Indian Air Force's Jaguar aircraft crashed in Haryana's Panchkula district on Friday with the pilot ejecting safely, said a police official.
He said the pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on the ground and there was no loss of life or injury reported to anyone on the ground.
"The IAF aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Panchkula district (near Morni hills).
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-aatmanirbharta-in-aerospace-aector-iaf-capability-enhancement-report-out-8776702">India 'aatmanirbharta' in aerospace: IAF capability enhancement report out</a>
The pilot ejected safely," SHO, Raipurrani in Panchkula district told PTI over the phone.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A Jaguar aircraft of the IAF crashed at Ambala, during a routine training sortie today, after encountering system malfunction. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on ground, before ejecting safely. An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF, to ascertain the&hellip;
&mdash; Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1897978332836180111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Haryana Deputy Commissioner of Police Himadree Kaushik told PTI that the aircraft crashed in Raipurrani area of Panchkula district.
Sources said the aircraft had taken off on a routine training sortie from Ambala.
<h2>Watch video here:</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewsAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewsAlert</a> | Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar aircraft crashes near Haryana's Ambala during training sortie; pilot ejects safely <a href="https://t.co/6w2vPCrxAK">pic.twitter.com/6w2vPCrxAK</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1897994485755494731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/technology-delayed-is-technology-denied-indian-iaf-chief-on-undelivered-tejas-aircraft-8600109">'Technology delayed is technology denied': Indian IAF chief on undelivered Tejas aircraft</a>
The IAF in a post on X said the aircraft crashed when it was on a routine training sortie after encountering a system malfunction.
"An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF to ascertain the cause of the incident", said the post.
Last month, a twin-seater Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft crashed near Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, during a routine training sortie. Both pilots ejected safely before the crash.
In November 2024, a MiG-29 fighter jet went down in a field near Agra, Uttar Pradesh, following a technical glitch during a routine training sortie. The pilot managed to eject safely before impact.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-3-spectators-die-over-200-faint-at-marina-beach-during-iaf-air-show-765010">India: 5 dead, 90 hospitalised as local authorities mess up Chennai IAF Air Show</a>
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: He said the pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on the ground and there was no loss of life or injury reported to anyone on the ground.

Indian Air Force's Jaguar aircraft crashed in Haryana's Panchkula district on Friday with the pilot ejecting safely, said a police official. He said the pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on the ground and there was no loss of life or injury reported to anyone on the ground. "The IAF aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Panchkula district (near Morni hills). Also read: India 'aatmanirbharta' in aerospace: IAF capability enhancement report out The pilot ejected safely," SHO, Raipurrani in Panchkula district told PTI over the phone. A Jaguar aircraft of the IAF crashed at Ambala, during a routine training sortie today, after encountering system malfunction. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on ground, before ejecting safely. An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF, to ascertain the… — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) March 7, 2025 Haryana Deputy Commissioner of Police Himadree Kaushik told PTI that the aircraft crashed in Raipurrani area of Panchkula district. Sources said the aircraft had taken off on a routine training sortie from Ambala. Watch video here: #NewsAlert | Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar aircraft crashes near Haryana's Ambala during training sortie; pilot ejects safely pic.twitter.com/6w2vPCrxAK — WION (@WIONews) March 7, 2025 Also read: 'Technology delayed is technology denied': Indian IAF chief on undelivered Tejas aircraft The IAF in a post on X said the aircraft crashed when it was on a routine training sortie after encountering a system malfunction. "An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF to ascertain the cause of the incident", said the post. Last month, a twin-seater Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft crashed near Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, during a routine training sortie. Both pilots ejected safely before the crash. In November 2024, a MiG-29 fighter jet went down in a field near Agra, Uttar Pradesh, following a technical glitch during a routine training sortie. The pilot managed to eject safely before impact. Also read: India: 5 dead, 90 hospitalised as local authorities mess up Chennai IAF Air Show Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian Air Force's fighter jet crashes in Haryana during training sortie

The Indian government has made some changes for Indian citizens applying for a new or updated passport. With significant new policy updates, the centre has brought stricter documentation requirements and procedural changes.&nbsp;
<h2>Here are five key changes you should know:&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>Birth certificate mandatory</h3>
A birth certificate will be the only officially valid proof of date of birth for citizens born on or after October 1, 2023. This document must be issued to the individual by the Municipal Corporation, the Registrar of Births and Deaths, or any authority designated under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.&nbsp;
However, individual born before this date may continue to use other documents for the proof of date of birth, like extracts from service records, a PAN card, a driving licence, a school leaving certificate or a matriculation certificate.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-transgenders-woe-as-passport-process-gets-complicated-for-them-amid-trumps-new-policy-8703305">Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy</a>
<h3>Residential address&nbsp;</h3>
Now with the new rule, residential addresses will no longer be printed on the last page of passports in an effort to improve security and privacy.&nbsp;
Instead, a barcode will now be printed on the paper, which immigration officials will scan to retrieve information.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/applied-for-indian-passport-your-appointment-is-rescheduled-after-sept-3-754237">Applied for Indian passport? Your appointment is rescheduled after Sept 3</a>
<h3>Colour-coding system&nbsp;</h3>
The Indian government has now launched a colour-coded system to make it easier to identify the passports of different citizens.&nbsp;
According to the new policy, white passports will be issued for government officials, while, red passports for diplomats.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, ordinary citizens will continue to be issued blue passports.
<h3>Parents' name to be removed</h3>
The name of the passport holders' parents will no longer be required for the new passport. Earlier, the names of the parents used to be printed on the last page of the passport.&nbsp;
This new change will prevent unnecessary disclosure of personal information.&nbsp;
Moreover, it will be helpful especially for individuals from single-parent of separated families.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-brazil-prez-bolsonaro-denied-passport-for-donald-trumps-inauguration-8628355">Ex-Brazil Prez Bolsonaro denied passport for Donald Trump's inauguration</a>
<h3>Passport Seva Kendra expansion</h3>
The Passport Seva Kendras, where the application and verification process for passport holders is done, will now be expanded to expedite the services.&nbsp;
Now, the number of Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) will be increased from 442 to 600 in the next five years.&nbsp;
The Department of Posts and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have extended their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a further five years.
The Indian government has made these policy changes to make the passport application process more secure, efficient, easy and uniform for Indian citizens.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boy-named-loki-skywalker-denied-passport-because-of-a-disney-copyright-760334">Boy named 'Loki Skywalker' denied passport because of a Disney copyright</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

INdia news, trending | Now with the new rule, residential addresses will no longer be printed on the last page of passports in an effort to improve security and privacy.

The Indian government has made some changes for Indian citizens applying for a new or updated passport. With significant new policy updates, the centre has brought stricter documentation requirements and procedural changes. Here are five key changes you should know: Birth certificate mandatory A birth certificate will be the only officially valid proof of date of birth for citizens born on or after October 1, 2023. This document must be issued to the individual by the Municipal Corporation, the Registrar of Births and Deaths, or any authority designated under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969. However, individual born before this date may continue to use other documents for the proof of date of birth, like extracts from service records, a PAN card, a driving licence, a school leaving certificate or a matriculation certificate. Also read: Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy Residential address Now with the new rule, residential addresses will no longer be printed on the last page of passports in an effort to improve security and privacy. Instead, a barcode will now be printed on the paper, which immigration officials will scan to retrieve information. Also read: Applied for Indian passport? Your appointment is rescheduled after Sept 3 Colour-coding system The Indian government has now launched a colour-coded system to make it easier to identify the passports of different citizens. According to the new policy, white passports will be issued for government officials, while, red passports for diplomats. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens will continue to be issued blue passports. Parents' name to be removed The name of the passport holders' parents will no longer be required for the new passport. Earlier, the names of the parents used to be printed on the last page of the passport. This new change will prevent unnecessary disclosure of personal information. Moreover, it will be helpful especially for individuals from single-parent of separated families. Also read: Ex-Brazil Prez Bolsonaro denied passport for Donald Trump's inauguration Passport Seva Kendra expansion The Passport Seva Kendras, where the application and verification process for passport holders is done, will now be expanded to expedite the services. Now, the number of Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) will be increased from 442 to 600 in the next five years. The Department of Posts and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have extended their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a further five years. The Indian government has made these policy changes to make the passport application process more secure, efficient, easy and uniform for Indian citizens. Also read: Boy named 'Loki Skywalker' denied passport because of a Disney copyright (With inputs from agencies)

Indian government changes rules for new passport: Here's all you need to know

Delhi’s towering landfills—Ghazipur, Bhalswa, and Okhla—continue to be a major environmental hazard, with over 11,000 tons of waste generated daily. As authorities promise action, can these garbage mountains finally be flattened?

Delhi’s massive landfills: Can the garbage mountains be cleared?

S N Subrahmanyan, the L&amp;T chairperson and managing director who made headlines for asking employees to put in 90 hours a week and not keep staring at their wives,&nbsp; has now announced one-day paid menstrual leave for women staff.
<h2>A paid menstrual leave</h2>
As per reports, the move will benefit 5,000 female employees at Larsen and Toubro. It was announced at a company event celebrating International Women's Day, reported PTI news agency.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lt-chairman-says-labourers-in-india-not-willing-to-work-blames-govt-beneficiary-schemes-8713117">L&amp;T chairman says labourers in India not willing to work, blames govt beneficiary schemes</a>
Exact details on how the mensural leave will be implemented are yet to be shared. However, it is known that the leave is only applicable to employees of L&amp;T parent company and not its subsidiaries engaged in financial services or technology.
L&amp;T said that it has 60,000 employees, of which nine per cent, or around 5,000, are women.&nbsp;
<h2>India and menstrual leave</h2>
In India, companies like Swiggy and Zomato have already announced similar mensural leaves. However, major businesses are yet to announce similar initiatives.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/lt-chairmans-work-90-hours-a-week-remark-sparks-meme-fest-online-8618052">'Stare at someone else's wife...': L&amp;T chairman's work '90 hours a week' remark sparks meme fest online</a>
Four Indian states, namely Bihar, Odisha, Sikkim, and Kerala, have already established provisions for menstrual leaves for their employees. Moreover, the Supreme Court of India last year suggested that the government itself formulate a policy for this.
<h2>What was the 90-hours a week controversy?</h2>
In January 2025, a video of an L&amp;T video conference went viral. In it, Subrahmanyan suggested employees work 90 hours a week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/detrimental-to-women-sc-skeptical-over-menstrual-leaves-asks-centre-to-frame-policy-738970">&lsquo;Detrimental to women&rsquo;: SC sceptical over menstrual leaves, asks centre to frame policy</a>
"What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can wives stare at their husbands? Go to the office and start working. Honestly, I am sorry that I am not able to make you work on Sundays. I will be happier if I can make you work on Sundays because I work on Sundays too," Subrahmanyan said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Learn about the new menstrual leave policy at L&T, benefiting 5,000 women employees, as announced during the company's International Women's Day event.

S N Subrahmanyan, the L&T chairperson and managing director who made headlines for asking employees to put in 90 hours a week and not keep staring at their wives, has now announced one-day paid menstrual leave for women staff. A paid menstrual leave As per reports, the move will benefit 5,000 female employees at Larsen and Toubro. It was announced at a company event celebrating International Women's Day, reported PTI news agency. Also read | L&T chairman says labourers in India not willing to work, blames govt beneficiary schemes Exact details on how the mensural leave will be implemented are yet to be shared. However, it is known that the leave is only applicable to employees of L&T parent company and not its subsidiaries engaged in financial services or technology. L&T said that it has 60,000 employees, of which nine per cent, or around 5,000, are women. India and menstrual leave In India, companies like Swiggy and Zomato have already announced similar mensural leaves. However, major businesses are yet to announce similar initiatives. Also read | 'Stare at someone else's wife...': L&T chairman's work '90 hours a week' remark sparks meme fest online Four Indian states, namely Bihar, Odisha, Sikkim, and Kerala, have already established provisions for menstrual leaves for their employees. Moreover, the Supreme Court of India last year suggested that the government itself formulate a policy for this. What was the 90-hours a week controversy? In January 2025, a video of an L&T video conference went viral. In it, Subrahmanyan suggested employees work 90 hours a week. Also read | ‘Detrimental to women’: SC sceptical over menstrual leaves, asks centre to frame policy "What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can wives stare at their husbands? Go to the office and start working. Honestly, I am sorry that I am not able to make you work on Sundays. I will be happier if I can make you work on Sundays because I work on Sundays too," Subrahmanyan said. (With inputs from agencies)

L&T chief, of 90-hr workweek fame, launches one-day paid 'period leave' for women

In a peace committee meeting on Thursday (March 6), a cop in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh said that if any Muslim has issues with playing Holi, they should stay indoors as the Hindu festival comes only once a year while Friday namaz comes 52 times.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-holi-special-celebrating-holi-this-year-without-the-risk-of-heat-stroke-expert-advice-703883">Holi Special: Celebrate Holi this year without the risk of heat stroke| Expert advice</a>
"If someone applies colour to them, they should not take offence and should have a big heart," deputy superintendent of police Anuj Chaudhary said in a meeting ahead of Holi in March - coinciding with Friday prayers during the Holi month of Ramzan.
"The way Muslims wait eagerly for Eid, Hindus too wait for Holi," the cop said, in remarks that circulated on social media.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
"Jumma saal me 52 baar aata hai, Holi ek baar aati hai. Agar Musalmano ko lagta hai ki Holi ke rang se dharm brasht ho jayega to uss din ghar se na nikle" Anuj Chaudhary chose to be unapologetic rather than politically correct🗿🔥 <a href="https://t.co/DAG0JCBtID">pic.twitter.com/DAG0JCBtID</a>
&mdash; BALA (@erbmjha) <a href="https://twitter.com/erbmjha/status/1897602845165158706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-soldiers-celebrate-holi-across-jammu-and-kashmir-704071">India: Soldiers celebrate Holi across Jammu and Kashmir</a>
The meeting was attended by city-based leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities in Sambhal's Kotwal days before Holi to address potential communal tensions.&nbsp;
"Holi is a festival that comes once a year, whereas Friday prayers take place 52 times in a year. If anyone feels uncomfortable with the colours of Holi, they should stay indoors on that day. Those who step out should have a broad mindset, as festivals are meant to be celebrated together," Chaudhary told reporters after the meeting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eid-e-gulabi-holi-celebrated-by-mughals-704061">Eid-E-GULABI: Holi celebrated by Mughals</a>
"Just as Muslims eagerly await Eid, Hindus look forward to Holi. People celebrate by applying colours, sharing sweets, and spreading joy. Similarly, on Eid, people prepare special dishes and embrace each other in celebration. The essence of both the festivals is togetherness and mutual respect," he added.&nbsp;
"This applies to both communities. If someone does not want colour, they should not be forced," he said.
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/holi-2023-holi-celebration-in-mathura-and-vrindavan-704132">HOLI 2023: Holi celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan</a>

INDIA NEWS | TRENDING | The meeting was attended by city-based leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities in Sambhal's Kotwal days before Holi to address potential communal tensions.

In a peace committee meeting on Thursday (March 6), a cop in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh said that if any Muslim has issues with playing Holi, they should stay indoors as the Hindu festival comes only once a year while Friday namaz comes 52 times. Also read: Holi Special: Celebrate Holi this year without the risk of heat stroke| Expert advice "If someone applies colour to them, they should not take offence and should have a big heart," deputy superintendent of police Anuj Chaudhary said in a meeting ahead of Holi in March - coinciding with Friday prayers during the Holi month of Ramzan. "The way Muslims wait eagerly for Eid, Hindus too wait for Holi," the cop said, in remarks that circulated on social media. "Jumma saal me 52 baar aata hai, Holi ek baar aati hai. Agar Musalmano ko lagta hai ki Holi ke rang se dharm brasht ho jayega to uss din ghar se na nikle" Anuj Chaudhary chose to be unapologetic rather than politically correct🗿🔥 pic.twitter.com/DAG0JCBtID — BALA (@erbmjha) March 6, 2025 Also read: India: Soldiers celebrate Holi across Jammu and Kashmir The meeting was attended by city-based leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities in Sambhal's Kotwal days before Holi to address potential communal tensions. "Holi is a festival that comes once a year, whereas Friday prayers take place 52 times in a year. If anyone feels uncomfortable with the colours of Holi, they should stay indoors on that day. Those who step out should have a broad mindset, as festivals are meant to be celebrated together," Chaudhary told reporters after the meeting. Also read: Eid-E-GULABI: Holi celebrated by Mughals "Just as Muslims eagerly await Eid, Hindus look forward to Holi. People celebrate by applying colours, sharing sweets, and spreading joy. Similarly, on Eid, people prepare special dishes and embrace each other in celebration. The essence of both the festivals is togetherness and mutual respect," he added. "This applies to both communities. If someone does not want colour, they should not be forced," he said. WATCH: HOLI 2023: Holi celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan

'Holi comes once a year, Friday namaz 52 times,' UP cop stirs row, says if any Muslim...

India and the United States are engaged in negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement to address the tariff issues, External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar said at an event hosted by Chatham House in London on Wednesday (March 5).&nbsp;
Jaishankar's remarks came after US President Donald Trump threatened to hit US trade partners with reciprocal tariffs from April 2.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-uk-diplomat-after-pro-khalistani-man-breached-security-during-jaishankars-london-visit-8829404">India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit</a>
The Indian minister said that many of Trump's priorities "work for us".&nbsp;
Jaishankar listed out Trump's priorities that align with India: his commitment to keeping energy prices reasonably affordable and stable; emphasis on development; use of technology as a game changer and openness to collaborative connectivity initiatives.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-condemns-security-breach-during-jaishankars-visit-calls-it-unacceptable-8828207">UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit, calls it 'unacceptable'</a>
Both India and the US had an &ldquo;open conversation&rdquo; on trade-related matters and agreed on the need for a bilateral trade agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s visit to the US last month.&nbsp;
Jaishankar said that the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in the US to negotiate the trade deal.
&ldquo;One has to see where that goes,&rdquo; Jaishankar said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-demands-uk-uphold-diplomatic-obligations-after-videos-of-jaishankar-security-breach-go-viral-8827128">India demands UK uphold 'diplomatic obligations' after videos of Jaishankar's security breach go viral</a>
&ldquo;When I look at our interests and our expectations of the relationship, there is a lot of promise that we see there," Jaishankar said, referring to the foreign policy of the Trump administration. He added that the US is moving towards multipolarity, and this suits India.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We believe working with the US to strengthen the international financial and economic system should be a priority,&rdquo; the Indian minister added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-eam-jaishankar-holds-bilateral-talks-with-uk-pm-keir-starmer-in-london-over-ukraine-conflict-8814411">Indian EAM Jaishankar holds bilateral talks with UK PM Keir Starmer in London over Ukraine conflict</a>
&nbsp;

INDIA NEWS | Jaishankar's statement came after the US President Donald Trump threatened to hit US trade partners with reciprocal tariffs from April 2.

India and the United States are engaged in negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement to address the tariff issues, External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar said at an event hosted by Chatham House in London on Wednesday (March 5). Jaishankar's remarks came after US President Donald Trump threatened to hit US trade partners with reciprocal tariffs from April 2. Also read: India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit The Indian minister said that many of Trump's priorities "work for us". Jaishankar listed out Trump's priorities that align with India: his commitment to keeping energy prices reasonably affordable and stable; emphasis on development; use of technology as a game changer and openness to collaborative connectivity initiatives. Also read: UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit, calls it 'unacceptable' Both India and the US had an “open conversation” on trade-related matters and agreed on the need for a bilateral trade agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US last month. Jaishankar said that the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in the US to negotiate the trade deal. “One has to see where that goes,” Jaishankar said. Also read: India demands UK uphold 'diplomatic obligations' after videos of Jaishankar's security breach go viral “When I look at our interests and our expectations of the relationship, there is a lot of promise that we see there," Jaishankar said, referring to the foreign policy of the Trump administration. He added that the US is moving towards multipolarity, and this suits India. “We believe working with the US to strengthen the international financial and economic system should be a priority,” the Indian minister added. Also read: Indian EAM Jaishankar holds bilateral talks with UK PM Keir Starmer in London over Ukraine conflict

India negotiating trade agreement with US that will address tariff issues, says S Jaishankar

India on Thursday (March 6) summoned the charg&eacute; d'affaires at the British High Commission following the breach of security for External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in London. On Wednesday (March 5), a pro-Khalistani extremist attacked the Indian minister's motorcade, tearing an Indian flag as Jaishankar left after participating in an exclusive event hosted by Chatham House in collaboration with the High Commission of India.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-video-indian-eam-dr-s-jaishankar-faces-security-scare-in-london-pro-khalistani-heckler-attacks-car-tears-indian-flag-8821363">Watch | Indian EAM Dr S Jaishankar faces security breach in London; pro-Khalistani heckler attacks car, tears Indian flag</a>
<h2>India summons UK envoy</h2>
As per reports, the charg&eacute; d'affaires at the British High Commission was called to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and was served a d&eacute;marche &mdash; a petition or protest presented through diplomatic channels.
Previously, New Delhi condemned the security breach, deploring the "misuse of democratic freedom" by "separatists and extremists," and said it expects the "host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations".
Reacting to the videos of the security breach, Randhir Jaiswal, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, said they "have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the external affairs minister to the UK".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-demands-uk-uphold-diplomatic-obligations-after-videos-of-jaishankar-security-breach-go-viral-8827128">India demands UK uphold 'diplomatic obligations' after videos of Jaishankar's security breach go viral</a>
"We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists," he said, adding, "We deplore the misuse of democratic freedom by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations".
<h2>What happened?</h2>
On Wednesday (March 5), Indian EAM Jaishankar faced a security breach in London, as a pro-Khalistani man rushed towards his car, tearing India's national flag in a show of protest.
Videos showed pro-Khalistani protesters heckling the Indian foreign minister as he departed from Chatham House following an event.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/student-from-indias-telangana-found-dead-with-bullet-wounds-in-us-family-seeks-help-in-bringing-body-home-indian-student-killed-in-us-8821767">Student from India's Telangana shot dead in US, family seeks help in bringing body home</a>
One of the videos captures the moment the heckler ran in front of Jaishankar's car holding an Indian flag before proceeding to tear it into two pieces and yelling "Khalistan Zindabad".
Watch video here
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7x9p5ie-u4xvfu81-rrgkt9f7">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Khalistani goons attempt to heckle India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> in London while he was leaving in a car. A man can be seen trying to run towards him, tearing the Indian national flag in front of cops. Police seem helpless, as if ordered to not act. <a href="https://t.co/wXK8sxVal8">pic.twitter.com/wXK8sxVal8</a>
&mdash; Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaRajKaul/status/1897401774199464179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Local police can be seen rushing to detain the Khalistani separatist. Reports suggest that the man was detained shortly but was released afterwards.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News | India has summoned UK diplomat following a security breach involving a pro-Khalistani extremist during External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visit to London.

India on Thursday (March 6) summoned the chargé d'affaires at the British High Commission following the breach of security for External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in London. On Wednesday (March 5), a pro-Khalistani extremist attacked the Indian minister's motorcade, tearing an Indian flag as Jaishankar left after participating in an exclusive event hosted by Chatham House in collaboration with the High Commission of India. Also read | Watch | Indian EAM Dr S Jaishankar faces security breach in London; pro-Khalistani heckler attacks car, tears Indian flag India summons UK envoy As per reports, the chargé d'affaires at the British High Commission was called to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and was served a démarche — a petition or protest presented through diplomatic channels. Previously, New Delhi condemned the security breach, deploring the "misuse of democratic freedom" by "separatists and extremists," and said it expects the "host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations". Reacting to the videos of the security breach, Randhir Jaiswal, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, said they "have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the external affairs minister to the UK". Also read | India demands UK uphold 'diplomatic obligations' after videos of Jaishankar's security breach go viral "We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists," he said, adding, "We deplore the misuse of democratic freedom by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations". What happened? On Wednesday (March 5), Indian EAM Jaishankar faced a security breach in London, as a pro-Khalistani man rushed towards his car, tearing India's national flag in a show of protest. Videos showed pro-Khalistani protesters heckling the Indian foreign minister as he departed from Chatham House following an event. Also read | Student from India's Telangana shot dead in US, family seeks help in bringing body home One of the videos captures the moment the heckler ran in front of Jaishankar's car holding an Indian flag before proceeding to tear it into two pieces and yelling "Khalistan Zindabad". Watch video here #BREAKING: Khalistani goons attempt to heckle India’s External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar in London while he was leaving in a car. A man can be seen trying to run towards him, tearing the Indian national flag in front of cops. Police seem helpless, as if ordered to not act. pic.twitter.com/wXK8sxVal8 — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) March 5, 2025 Local police can be seen rushing to detain the Khalistani separatist. Reports suggest that the man was detained shortly but was released afterwards. (With inputs from agencies)

India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit

An "active terrorist" of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) with "links" to Pakistan's ISI, who had planned a major terror attack during the Maha Kumbh, was arrested from Uttar Pradesh's Kaushambi district.

Uttar Pradesh: Pro-khalistani terrorist with ISI links arrested by STF

Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on Sunday, the Ambassador of United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali has said that cricket captures "a very different side of the relationship, something that brings us all together". The final will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates, which stems from India's refusal to travel to Pakistan due to deteriorating security situation. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Alshaali said, "will continue to host cricket teams is something that I'm also very excited about".&nbsp;
The UAE boasts a world-class cricket infrastructure, which includes Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and has positioned it as a prominent hub for international cricket. Supporting this are robust training facilities like the ICC Academy in Dubai, featuring two full-sized ovals, 38 practice pitches (including turf, synthetic, and indoor options), and advanced technology like bowling machines.
The Ambassador was speaking at the embassy's annual Iftar, which is the grandest such Iftar in Delhi &amp; witnessed the presence of city's diplomatic community. On the relationship, he said, "So in this relationship, you can see India playing a cricket match in the UAE, and you can see, BAPS Mandir coming up in Abu Dhabi, you see Iftar here in New Delhi." Full interview:
Sidhant Sibal: The Iftar party by the UAE embassy, is one of the grandest ones in Delhi, with the entire diplomatic community of Delhi attending. How do you see this presence of the diplomatic community at the Iftar party?
Abdulnasser Alshaali: So just to be clear, when I hosted Iftar at my place in the UAE, it was not as big. We have to change things and accommodate the Indian standards (in Delhi). So we have got inspiration from Indian weddings. They have to be grand, and they have to be big. And we literally added two tables this year because of the number of people who have confirmed attending the Iftar. And as you mentioned, this started a couple of years ago and would continue to be one of the key events in the diplomatic calendar here in Delhi.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/were-evolving-to-counter-cyber-threats-drones-indias-cisf-chief-8828736" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">We're evolving to counter cyber threats, drones: India's CISF Chief</a>
Sidhant Sibal: Now talking about India UAE relationship, if you can just give your broad view, because this is one of the most important relationships India has in West Asia, and UAE has emerged as one of the most important partners for India towards its west
Abdulnasser Alshaali: Correct. And you know, I think from anyone who's following the news, they have always been high level visits. This will continue to be the case. We're expecting a high level visit in April. We're all very excited about it, and we are talking about almost everything. So, in this relationship, you can see India playing a cricket match in the UAE, and you can see, BAPS Mandir coming up in Abu Dhabi, you see Iftar here in New Delhi. &nbsp;Number of visits, and officials coming, discussing all kinds of existing and emerging technologies and sectors, AI, data centres, you name it. And this will always be the case, and this will always be an exciting relationship for everyone to look forward to.
Sidhant Sibal: If you can perhaps talk about various domains in the relationship, whether it's aviation, and also when it comes to the trading relationship, we saw the trading pact that was signed, how much it has helped, both ways.&nbsp;
Abdulnasser Alshaali: As you know, we have a certain target of 100 billion US dollars non-oil trade by 2030, or so. And it seems like everything is on track, if everything stays as is to achieve that target. And when I say this, I mean this growth in bilateral trade in certain sectors continues on the current trajectory, no economic crisis whatsoever. So that's the first part. On the second part. I really do believe that aviation is the thing that keeps everything or brings everything together. And you know, you can have the best trade relationship, the best business relationship, the best whatever relationship that you want, but then if you don't have enough flights, that people-to-people connection will not be there. People to People connection can drive everything else with it. And so there's a serious proposal on the table on how we can take this conversation forward. And I think it really just comes down to wanting to start to have this conversation, then having that conversation, agreeing on the terms and conditions, like we did with the CEPA, because this is the essence of it. And you know, back in the day when people started negotiating CEPA, no one thought, because at the time, India hadn't signed anything of the sort. The UAE was negotiating its first CEPA, yet they were able to do it in 88 days. No one's saying that aviation should be resolved in 88 days. But the conversation should start somewhere,
Sidhant Sibal: Ending on a very positive note. That's cricket. You have emerged at an important sporting centre. You're going to host the finals of the Champions Trophy as well. How do you just see this moment as and essentially who you are rooting for as well?
Abdulnasser Alshaali: Publicly, I cannot say that, but I think naturally you would know my team, or who am I cheering for and rooting for. In terms of sports, I think this is great, and it really does capture a very different side of the relationship, something that brings us all together, and that's besides culture, that's sports, being able to host cricket teams and hopefully to continue to host cricket teams is something that I'm also very excited about, and we'd like to see more.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-soon-be-dead-2611-mumbai-terror-attack-accused-tahawwur-rana-alleges-torture-if-extradited-to-india-8828823" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">sidhan</a>

The UAE boasts a world-class cricket infrastructure, which includes Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and has positioned it as a prominent hub for international cricket | India News

Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on Sunday, the Ambassador of United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali has said that cricket captures "a very different side of the relationship, something that brings us all together". The final will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates, which stems from India's refusal to travel to Pakistan due to deteriorating security situation. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Alshaali said, "will continue to host cricket teams is something that I'm also very excited about". The UAE boasts a world-class cricket infrastructure, which includes Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and has positioned it as a prominent hub for international cricket. Supporting this are robust training facilities like the ICC Academy in Dubai, featuring two full-sized ovals, 38 practice pitches (including turf, synthetic, and indoor options), and advanced technology like bowling machines. The Ambassador was speaking at the embassy's annual Iftar, which is the grandest such Iftar in Delhi & witnessed the presence of city's diplomatic community. On the relationship, he said, "So in this relationship, you can see India playing a cricket match in the UAE, and you can see, BAPS Mandir coming up in Abu Dhabi, you see Iftar here in New Delhi." Full interview: Sidhant Sibal: The Iftar party by the UAE embassy, is one of the grandest ones in Delhi, with the entire diplomatic community of Delhi attending. How do you see this presence of the diplomatic community at the Iftar party? Abdulnasser Alshaali: So just to be clear, when I hosted Iftar at my place in the UAE, it was not as big. We have to change things and accommodate the Indian standards (in Delhi). So we have got inspiration from Indian weddings. They have to be grand, and they have to be big. And we literally added two tables this year because of the number of people who have confirmed attending the Iftar. And as you mentioned, this started a couple of years ago and would continue to be one of the key events in the diplomatic calendar here in Delhi. Also Read: We're evolving to counter cyber threats, drones: India's CISF Chief Sidhant Sibal: Now talking about India UAE relationship, if you can just give your broad view, because this is one of the most important relationships India has in West Asia, and UAE has emerged as one of the most important partners for India towards its west Abdulnasser Alshaali: Correct. And you know, I think from anyone who's following the news, they have always been high level visits. This will continue to be the case. We're expecting a high level visit in April. We're all very excited about it, and we are talking about almost everything. So, in this relationship, you can see India playing a cricket match in the UAE, and you can see, BAPS Mandir coming up in Abu Dhabi, you see Iftar here in New Delhi. Number of visits, and officials coming, discussing all kinds of existing and emerging technologies and sectors, AI, data centres, you name it. And this will always be the case, and this will always be an exciting relationship for everyone to look forward to. Sidhant Sibal: If you can perhaps talk about various domains in the relationship, whether it's aviation, and also when it comes to the trading relationship, we saw the trading pact that was signed, how much it has helped, both ways. Abdulnasser Alshaali: As you know, we have a certain target of 100 billion US dollars non-oil trade by 2030, or so. And it seems like everything is on track, if everything stays as is to achieve that target. And when I say this, I mean this growth in bilateral trade in certain sectors continues on the current trajectory, no economic crisis whatsoever. So that's the first part. On the second part. I really do believe that aviation is the thing that keeps everything or brings everything together. And you know, you can have the best trade relationship, the best business relationship, the best whatever relationship that you want, but then if you don't have enough flights, that people-to-people connection will not be there. People to People connection can drive everything else with it. And so there's a serious proposal on the table on how we can take this conversation forward. And I think it really just comes down to wanting to start to have this conversation, then having that conversation, agreeing on the terms and conditions, like we did with the CEPA, because this is the essence of it. And you know, back in the day when people started negotiating CEPA, no one thought, because at the time, India hadn't signed anything of the sort. The UAE was negotiating its first CEPA, yet they were able to do it in 88 days. No one's saying that aviation should be resolved in 88 days. But the conversation should start somewhere, Sidhant Sibal: Ending on a very positive note. That's cricket. You have emerged at an important sporting centre. You're going to host the finals of the Champions Trophy as well. How do you just see this moment as and essentially who you are rooting for as well? Abdulnasser Alshaali: Publicly, I cannot say that, but I think naturally you would know my team, or who am I cheering for and rooting for. In terms of sports, I think this is great, and it really does capture a very different side of the relationship, something that brings us all together, and that's besides culture, that's sports, being able to host cricket teams and hopefully to continue to host cricket teams is something that I'm also very excited about, and we'd like to see more. Also Read: sidhan

UAE Ambassador Alshaali Cheers for Cricket: Champions Trophy Final Unites Us All

In his final attempts to evade Indian authorities, the 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana approached the US Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay on his extradition to India. In his petition, Rana claimed that he would be tortured and killed in India.
His extradition was approved by President Donald Trump&rsquo;s administration during Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s recent visit to the US.
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The petition stated that he is of Pakistani Muslim origin and a former member of the Pakistani Army, that would make him susceptible to torture in custody and risk his life given his health condition. The accused claimed that he suffers from Parkinson's disease, possible bladder cancer and a 3.5 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm that can rupture any time.
He said that he cannot be sent into a &ldquo;hornet&rsquo;s nest.&rdquo;
&ldquo;If a stay is not entered, there will be no review at all, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and the petitioner will soon be dead,&rdquo; the petition added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-ministry-gives-orders-for-increased-anti-terror-operations-in-jk-to-make-the-region-terror-free-8828103">India: Home Ministry gives orders for increased anti-terror operations in J&amp;K to make the region terror free</a>
He alleged that the Indian government is autocratic, citing a Human Rights Watch 2023 World Report, which claims systematic discrimination and stigmatisation of religious minorities, particularly Muslims in the country.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Tahawwur Rana?</h2>
Tahawwur Rana, a known associate of Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, was one of the main conspirators behind the November 26, 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai that killed 166 people. The attacks happened at several places in the city, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel.
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A businessman, immigration entrepreneur and a physician, Rana reportedly has connections with the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba and Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistan.
Testifying against Rana in a US court, Headley said that Rana travelled to India five times between 2007 and 2008 to carry out a review of possible targets in Mumbai.
While Rana was acquitted on charges of abetting the terror attacks in Mumbai by a US court in 2011, he was convicted for providing support to the Lashkar-e-Taiba and assisting a terror plot in Denmark. Recently, the US Supreme Court denied to review a petition filed by him.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-for-urgent-un-security-council-reforms-slams-disguised-veto-on-terrorist-listings-8764219">India calls for urgent UN Security Council reforms, slams 'disguised veto' on terrorist listings</a>
His role in terror attacks in India has been a point of friction between India and the US.
However, during a joint press conference with the Indian prime minister, Trump said, &ldquo;Today, I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters and one of the very evil people of the world (Tahawwur Rana), having to do with the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack to face justice in India.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The petition stated that he is of Pakistani Muslim origin and a former member of the Pakistani Army, that would make him susceptible to torture in custody and risk his life given his health condition.

In his final attempts to evade Indian authorities, the 26/11 terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana approached the US Supreme Court seeking an emergency stay on his extradition to India. In his petition, Rana claimed that he would be tortured and killed in India. His extradition was approved by President Donald Trump’s administration during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US. Also read | India: Babbar Khalsa terrorist with ISI ties arrested in UP, wanted to target Maha Kumbh The petition stated that he is of Pakistani Muslim origin and a former member of the Pakistani Army, that would make him susceptible to torture in custody and risk his life given his health condition. The accused claimed that he suffers from Parkinson's disease, possible bladder cancer and a 3.5 cm abdominal aortic aneurysm that can rupture any time. He said that he cannot be sent into a “hornet’s nest.” “If a stay is not entered, there will be no review at all, and the US courts will lose jurisdiction, and the petitioner will soon be dead,” the petition added. Also read | India: Home Ministry gives orders for increased anti-terror operations in J&K to make the region terror free He alleged that the Indian government is autocratic, citing a Human Rights Watch 2023 World Report, which claims systematic discrimination and stigmatisation of religious minorities, particularly Muslims in the country. Who is Tahawwur Rana? Tahawwur Rana, a known associate of Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, was one of the main conspirators behind the November 26, 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai that killed 166 people. The attacks happened at several places in the city, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel. Also read | With Hamas in PoK, Israel reaches out to India for group’s terror listing A businessman, immigration entrepreneur and a physician, Rana reportedly has connections with the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba and Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistan. Testifying against Rana in a US court, Headley said that Rana travelled to India five times between 2007 and 2008 to carry out a review of possible targets in Mumbai. While Rana was acquitted on charges of abetting the terror attacks in Mumbai by a US court in 2011, he was convicted for providing support to the Lashkar-e-Taiba and assisting a terror plot in Denmark. Recently, the US Supreme Court denied to review a petition filed by him. Also read | India calls for urgent UN Security Council reforms, slams 'disguised veto' on terrorist listings His role in terror attacks in India has been a point of friction between India and the US. However, during a joint press conference with the Indian prime minister, Trump said, “Today, I am pleased to announce that my administration has approved the extradition of one of the plotters and one of the very evil people of the world (Tahawwur Rana), having to do with the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack to face justice in India.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will soon be dead’: 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana alleges ‘torture’ if extradited to India

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