<p>Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar suggested that New Delhi should engage in dialogue with Pakistan to avoid any potential consequences, including the use of the atomic bomb by the South Asian neighbour&nbsp;against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aiyar's remarks came during an interview he gave to Chill Pill on April 15.&nbsp;In a now widely circulated clip, Aiyar can be seen talking about the need for a dialogue with Pakistan and warning that failure to do so could lead to dire consequences.</p>

<p>He said, "India should give respect to Pakistan as it has an atom bomb! If we don't give them respect, they'll think of using an atom bomb against India."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-dabholkar-murder-case-two-accused-get-life-imprisonment-720000">Narendra Dabholkar murder case: Two accused get life imprisonment</a></p>

<p>"They are also a sovereign country (Pakistan). They are a respected nation. You can talk tough with them (Pakistan). But start the dialogue. You are walking with a gun which yielded you nothing. Tensions are escalating. And if a mad person comes there, what will happen to the nation? They have an atom bomb. We also possess the atomic bomb. But if a mad person detonates a bomb at Lahore station, so within eight seconds, eight moments, its radioactivity will reach Amritsar," Aiyar reportedly added.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-foreign-minister-zameer-mindful-on-concerns-over-china-vessel-visit-seeks-debt-relief-from-india-719884">Maldives Foreign Minister Zameer mindful of concerns over China vessel visit; seeks debt relief from India</a></p>

<p>The controversial comments come to the fore at a time when&nbsp;Lok Sabha elections are underway and discussions about Pakistan and China are frequently used by parties in their political discourse.&nbsp;Aiyar's remarks sparked criticism from BJP leaders.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Reacting to Aiyar's comments, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar accused Congress of promoting an ideology that prioritises Pakistan over India's interests.</p>

<p>BJP leader Ravi Kishan also ridiculed Aiyar and said that he should seek treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pannun-murder-plot-row-us-says-satisfied-with-indian-accountability-on-pannun-murder-plot-719988">Pannun murder plot row: US says 'satisfied' with Indian accountability on Pannun murder plot</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pannun-murder-plot-row-us-says-satisfied-with-indian-accountability-on-pannun-murder-plot-719988/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Incidentally, Aiyer was born in Lahore, Pakistan.</p>

<p>Congress sought to distance itself from Aiyar's remarks, with spokesperson Pawan Khera stating that Aiyar's views do not represent the party's stance.&nbsp;</p>
</section>

<p><br />
This exchange follows Prime Minister Modi's recent assertion that Indian forces would enter Pakistan to eliminate terrorists.</p>

<p>"During the Congress regime, the news headlines were about India handing over another dossier to Pakistan about terror activities. It used to be big news. Today, India doesn't send dossiers. Aaj Bharat ghar mein ghus ke marta hai (Today, India eliminates terrorists on their home turf)," PM Modi had said at an election rally in Maharashtra's Latur.</p>

<p>In a separate instance, Hyderabad police on Friday (May 10) registered a case against BJP candidate Navneet Rana Kaur for saying that a vote for the Congress party is a vote for Pakistan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar suggested that New Delhi should engage in dialogue with Pakistan to avoid any potential consequences, including the use of the atomic bomb by the South Asian neighbour against India.

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar suggested that New Delhi should engage in dialogue with Pakistan to avoid any potential consequences, including the use of the atomic bomb by the South Asian neighbour against India. Aiyar's remarks came during an interview he gave to Chill Pill on April 15. In a now widely circulated clip, Aiyar can be seen talking about the need for a dialogue with Pakistan and warning that failure to do so could lead to dire consequences. He said, "India should give respect to Pakistan as it has an atom bomb! If we don't give them respect, they'll think of using an atom bomb against India." Also Read | Narendra Dabholkar murder case: Two accused get life imprisonment "They are also a sovereign country (Pakistan). They are a respected nation. You can talk tough with them (Pakistan). But start the dialogue. You are walking with a gun which yielded you nothing. Tensions are escalating. And if a mad person comes there, what will happen to the nation? They have an atom bomb. We also possess the atomic bomb. But if a mad person detonates a bomb at Lahore station, so within eight seconds, eight moments, its radioactivity will reach Amritsar," Aiyar reportedly added. Also Read | Maldives Foreign Minister Zameer mindful of concerns over China vessel visit; seeks debt relief from India The controversial comments come to the fore at a time when Lok Sabha elections are underway and discussions about Pakistan and China are frequently used by parties in their political discourse. Aiyar's remarks sparked criticism from BJP leaders. Reacting to Aiyar's comments, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar accused Congress of promoting an ideology that prioritises Pakistan over India's interests. BJP leader Ravi Kishan also ridiculed Aiyar and said that he should seek treatment. Watch | Pannun murder plot row: US says 'satisfied' with Indian accountability on Pannun murder plot × Incidentally, Aiyer was born in Lahore, Pakistan. Congress sought to distance itself from Aiyar's remarks, with spokesperson Pawan Khera stating that Aiyar's views do not represent the party's stance. This exchange follows Prime Minister Modi's recent assertion that Indian forces would enter Pakistan to eliminate terrorists. "During the Congress regime, the news headlines were about India handing over another dossier to Pakistan about terror activities. It used to be big news. Today, India doesn't send dossiers. Aaj Bharat ghar mein ghus ke marta hai (Today, India eliminates terrorists on their home turf)," PM Modi had said at an election rally in Maharashtra's Latur. In a separate instance, Hyderabad police on Friday (May 10) registered a case against BJP candidate Navneet Rana Kaur for saying that a vote for the Congress party is a vote for Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Mani Shankar Aiyar sparks controversy with 'Pak can drop atom bomb on India' statement

Amid the diplomatic standoff between Maldives and India, former's Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is currently on his first official visit to India. Zameer arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday, the two sides are likely to discuss bilateral and regional issues.

Maldives FM Moosa Zameer arrives in India, two sides to discuss bilateral & regional issues

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Maldives Foreign Minister arrives in India - Unveiled: India's wealthiest cities - Pannun Case: Moscow backs New Delhi - US warns halting of arms supply to Israel - Hamas: Won't compromise further - Xi in Budapest for state visit to Hungary

Maldives Foreign Minister arrives in India | Unveiled: India's wealthiest cities

The opposition India leaders are scheduled to meet with the Election Commission officials to discuss the voter turnout issue. Congress President Malikarjun Kharge urged I.N.D.I.A bloc leaders to collectively unitedly and unequivocally raise their voice and demand that the election commission promptly releases total voter turnout figures for each phase of the Lok Sabha elections without delay. Watch in for more details!

India Elections 2024: INDIA alliance leaders to meet Election Commission over voter turnout

In an exclusive chat with WION, actress Aditi Rao Hydari dissects her latest project, the Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, why her character Bibbo Jaan is her favourite, her wish list and more.

Aditi Rao Hydari on Heeramandi, working with Mani Ratnam, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and more

The Russian Foreign Ministry has accused the US of trying to "unbalance" India's internal political situation to complicate the elections. Moscow referred to the US as a 'neo-colonial' power that lacks an understanding of India's national mentality, historical context, and the development of the Indian state. While Russia's criticism of the US is not new, is its analysis far-fetched? On this episode of Gravitas, we examine how biased reports emerged from the US, in the run-up to the Indian elections.

Gravitas | Russia accuses 'Neo-colonial' US for meddling in India's election, 'Lack of Respect...'

India is gearing up to celebrate the festival of gold - Akshaya Tritiya. This comes at a time when gold prices are on a historic climb, reaching $880 per 10 grams. This marks a significant 17% increase since last year's festival. Now, this surge has sparked a critical question: will these record highs dampen consumer demand during Akshaya Tritiya?

Gold prices soar ahead of Akshaya Tritiya

Russia's Foreign Ministry has slammed US and said that Washington lacks simple understanding of India's national mentality and history as America continues to make 'unfounded accusations' about religious freedoms.

Russia backs India in alleged Pannun killing plot | Russia slams US over 'unfounded accusations'

Maldives Foreign Minister's India visit comes as India all set to replace military from Maldives

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer rarrives in India, to hold bilateral talks with S Jaishankar

In the dynamic landscape of global economics Asia is emerging as a power Powerhouse of wealth creation with India at its Forefront. Watch in for more details!

Asian cities drive global growth: Henley puts spotlight on wealth trends

Maldives foreign minister Moosa Zameer speaks exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. He spoke on India Maldives ties, China ties, Indian infra projects. He confirmed debt relief was discussed during the talks.

India has played a catalyst role in Maldives' achievement, says Maldives FM Moosa Zameer

The Philippines' recent induction of BrahMos missiles has been hailed as a significant development by Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio. In an exclusive interview with diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Philippines Ambassador Ignacio described the acquisition as a "milestone" for the country's defense modernization, providing "credible deterrence". The BrahMos missile, renowned for its speed and precision, was jointly developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia. The $375 million deal, signed in 2022, marked a crucial step forward for the Philippines undertaking its defense modernization.

'BrahMos acquisition a milestone for the Philippines', says Philippines Ambassador Ignacio

Russia stands with its long-time ally India. Russia dismissed U.S' allegations against India regarding a foiled assassination plot against Pannun. Russian Foreign Ministry not only rejected the allegations but also accused U.S. of disrespecting India.

Pannun assassination plot: Russia backs India, questions US over lack of evidence

Amid the diplomatic standoff between Maldives and India, Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is currently on his first official visit to India. Zameer arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday, the two sides are likely to discuss bilateral and regional issues.

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer arrives in India on official visit

Indian Army was once heavily dependent on imports to meet annual ammunition requirements. It now no longer needs imports from the next financial year. Watch this video for all details.

Why Indian Army will no longer require ammunition import from next financial year

<p>India's National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has revised its 'Dietary Guidelines for Indians' after taking into account the latest scientific findings, changes in lifestyle, diseases and dietary habits. The top institute designated earthen cookware 'safest' as its requires less oil and preserves nutrition and flagged the excess consumption of protein supplements.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Unsafe food storage and cooking habits</strong></h2>

<p>The NIN found that storing acidic foods such as chutneys or sambar in iron, aluminium and unlined brass or copper vessels is unsafe. For non-stick pans, the NIN said that the risk exists if the heat while cooking exceeds 170 degree centigrade and added that non-stick pans should be discarded if their coating is worn out or damaged.</p>

<p>As far as the vessels made of granite stone are concerned, it is generally considered safe. If it contains Teflon coating, then cooking on medium to high flame is advisable. The institute gave a thumbs up to the use of granite-coated cookware.</p>

<h2><strong>Protein supplements best avoided: NIN</strong></h2>

<p>The National Institute of Nutrition advised Indians to restrict sugar intake to 20 to 25 grams a day, avoid protein supplements and reduce oils. The institute also okayed air-frying as a mode of cooking for usually oil-intensive food items.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another key suggestion is to decrease the use of cooking oil and obtain essential fatty acids through nuts, oilseeds, and seafood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/life-fun/health-and-wellness/to-whey-or-not-to-whey-how-safe-is-whey-protein-1714389068250">To Whey or Not to Whey. How Safe is Whey Protein?</a></strong></p>

<p>At the same time, it suggested that protein supplements are best avoided as the health risks associated with them apparently outweigh the benefits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Protein powders may also contain added sugars, non-caloric sweeteners and additives such as artificial flavouring, hence, are not advisable for regular consumption. Proteins rich in branched-chain amino acids may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases. Consuming high levels of protein. especially in the form of supplement powders, is therefore not advisable," NIN said, as per&nbsp;The Times of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Warning labels for protein shakes?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-warning-labels-for-protein-shakes-610280/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>NIN director Dr Hemalatha R, chairperson of the committee that formulated the guidelines, said in a statement that "healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease and hypertension, and prevent up to 80 per cent of type 2 diabetes."</p>


India's National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has revised its 'Dietary Guidelines for Indians' after taking into account the latest scientific findings, changes in lifestyle, diseases and dietary habits.

India's National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has revised its 'Dietary Guidelines for Indians' after taking into account the latest scientific findings, changes in lifestyle, diseases and dietary habits. The top institute designated earthen cookware 'safest' as its requires less oil and preserves nutrition and flagged the excess consumption of protein supplements. Unsafe food storage and cooking habits The NIN found that storing acidic foods such as chutneys or sambar in iron, aluminium and unlined brass or copper vessels is unsafe. For non-stick pans, the NIN said that the risk exists if the heat while cooking exceeds 170 degree centigrade and added that non-stick pans should be discarded if their coating is worn out or damaged. As far as the vessels made of granite stone are concerned, it is generally considered safe. If it contains Teflon coating, then cooking on medium to high flame is advisable. The institute gave a thumbs up to the use of granite-coated cookware. Protein supplements best avoided: NIN The National Institute of Nutrition advised Indians to restrict sugar intake to 20 to 25 grams a day, avoid protein supplements and reduce oils. The institute also okayed air-frying as a mode of cooking for usually oil-intensive food items. Another key suggestion is to decrease the use of cooking oil and obtain essential fatty acids through nuts, oilseeds, and seafood. Also read | To Whey or Not to Whey. How Safe is Whey Protein? At the same time, it suggested that protein supplements are best avoided as the health risks associated with them apparently outweigh the benefits. "Protein powders may also contain added sugars, non-caloric sweeteners and additives such as artificial flavouring, hence, are not advisable for regular consumption. Proteins rich in branched-chain amino acids may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases. Consuming high levels of protein. especially in the form of supplement powders, is therefore not advisable," NIN said, as per The Times of India. Also watch | Gravitas: Warning labels for protein shakes? × NIN director Dr Hemalatha R, chairperson of the committee that formulated the guidelines, said in a statement that "healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease and hypertension, and prevent up to 80 per cent of type 2 diabetes."

'Not advisable': India's top nutrition institute flags consumption of protein supplements

A study was conducted by the PM's Economic Council (EAC-PM). The study analysed India's demography change between 1950 and 2015. Watch this video for all details.

India's Hindu population shrank by 7.8%, Muslims grew by 43.15% between 1950 and 2015: EAC-PM study

Philippines Amb Josel Francisco on India-Philippines ties: BrahMos missile crucial for Philippines

India continues to be the fastest growing large economy in the world. But the latest government data on household savings signals possible trouble at the micro level. Net household savings have declined sharply by nearly 109 billion dollars between 2020 and 2023. That's a five-year-low.

Household savings decline by $109 billion between 2020 & 2023

India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. But the contribution from India's rural economy has been disappointing since the pandemic. Now, experts suggest the country's general elections may finally drive rural demand and accelerate national growth.

India General Elections 2024: Can polls spur India's rural economy?

<p>After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8).&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is no official announcement yet at the time of filing this report, but the Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed to PTI news agency that Xu, a former ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, has been appointed as China's new envoy in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Xu Feihong?</strong></h2>

<p>The 60-year-old Xu Feihong was serving as assistant minister for financial and administrative affairs in the foreign ministry.</p>

<p>In 37 years as a Chinese diplomat, Xu’s only job in South Asia was as ambassador to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. He also served as envoy to Romania from 2015 to 2018.</p>

<p>Apart from these, most of Xu’s postings have been in the Western world, from Finland to Australia, with a specialisation in Europe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-halts-bomb-shipment-to-israel-to-signal-concerns-over-rafah-invasion-719158">US halts bomb shipment to Israel amid signs of full-scale Rafah invasion</a></p>

<p>He will succeed veteran Chinese diplomat Sun Weidong who completed his term in India in October 2022.</p>

<p>Sun Weidong left his post in October 2022, after a tumultuous three years that saw relations between the two neighbours plunge following border clashes in eastern Ladakh.</p>

<p>In April-May 2020, India and China, were locked in a military standoff in the western part of the border.</p>

<p>Tensions flared as Chinese forces advanced past their usual positions on the Line of Actual Control. This resulted in clashes between Chinese troops and Indian Army patrols.</p>

<p>The most serious incident was reported on 15 June, 2020 in the Galwan Valley, where a brutal hand-to-hand fight resulted in casualties on both sides.</p>

<p>India confirmed the loss of 20 soldiers, while China acknowledged at least four fatalities.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEj4zNpP2FAxURR2wGHadaDK0QFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bAyTpvVC5WmAxXkVu0NzN&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-india-rubbishes-chinas-absurd-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-705539" target="_blank">India rubbishes&nbsp;<b>China's</b>&nbsp;'absurd' claims on Arunachal Pradesh</a></p>

<p>Since then, at least 20 rounds of military-level talks and 13 rounds of foreign office talks have been held between the two countries.</p>

<p>India is pressing the People's Liberation Army to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8).

After a gap of 18 months, Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new ambassador to India, a report said on Wednesday (May 8). There is no official announcement yet at the time of filing this report, but the Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed to PTI news agency that Xu, a former ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, has been appointed as China's new envoy in India. Who is Xu Feihong? The 60-year-old Xu Feihong was serving as assistant minister for financial and administrative affairs in the foreign ministry. In 37 years as a Chinese diplomat, Xu’s only job in South Asia was as ambassador to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. He also served as envoy to Romania from 2015 to 2018. Apart from these, most of Xu’s postings have been in the Western world, from Finland to Australia, with a specialisation in Europe. Also read: US halts bomb shipment to Israel amid signs of full-scale Rafah invasion He will succeed veteran Chinese diplomat Sun Weidong who completed his term in India in October 2022. Sun Weidong left his post in October 2022, after a tumultuous three years that saw relations between the two neighbours plunge following border clashes in eastern Ladakh. In April-May 2020, India and China, were locked in a military standoff in the western part of the border. Tensions flared as Chinese forces advanced past their usual positions on the Line of Actual Control. This resulted in clashes between Chinese troops and Indian Army patrols. The most serious incident was reported on 15 June, 2020 in the Galwan Valley, where a brutal hand-to-hand fight resulted in casualties on both sides. India confirmed the loss of 20 soldiers, while China acknowledged at least four fatalities. Also read: India rubbishes China's 'absurd' claims on Arunachal Pradesh Since then, at least 20 rounds of military-level talks and 13 rounds of foreign office talks have been held between the two countries. India is pressing the People's Liberation Army to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Xu Feihong, China’s new envoy to India?

After an unusual delay of 18 months, China President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as the new Ambassador to India while there is no official announcement by Beijing. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed the news of the appointment.

Xu Feihong: China names new envoy to India amid strained ties with the country

The Kashmir Valley is witnessing a change, for the first time in the last three decades, as election campaign rallies are being held in areas which were once considered volatile and no-go zones. A regional political party held an election campaign at Srinagar's Jamia Masjid in the Nowhatta area of Downtown. The same area was once famous for stone pelting and election boycotts. Watch in for more details!

India General Elections 2024: Election campaign rallies sweep Kashmir`s former no-go zones

india

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