<p>After 303 Indian passengers on a Nicaragua-bound plane were grounded by French authorities on Thursday (Dec 21), sources close to the Paris prosecutor's office told news agency Reuters that there are eleven unaccompanied minors among them. The sources also disclosed that these unaccompanied minors are provided "ad-hoc tutors" by French authorities.</p>

<p>Operated by Romanian charter company Legend Airlines, the flight was grounded at Vatry airport during a technical stopover en route from Dubai,&nbsp;Marne prefect's office reportedly said in a statement.</p>

<p>The Indian Embassy has already received consular access to its citizens and officials from the Indian general consulate are regularly visiting the passengers to ensure their well-being during this unexpected situation, the&nbsp;prefect's office added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the meantime, the Paris prosecutor's office is actively investigating a suspected case of human trafficking. Moreover, emergency services at northeast France's Marne have set up makeshift beds for the passengers. All the Indians are taken care of with access to toilets, showers, meals, and hot drinks.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, two of the passengers have been held for questioning and they continue to remain in police custody as part of the ongoing investigation. The French authorities sprung into action after they received a tip-off&nbsp;by an anonymous informant, leading to the grounding of the plane.</p>

<h2><strong>Plane crew released</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Liliana Bakayoko, a lawyer representing Legend Airlines, reportedly clarified that the crew has been released after questioning. She stated, "The members of the crew have been questioned, the questioning has ended, and they are all free to move. None has been put in custody."</p>

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<p>Legend Airlines revealed that the flight was chartered by a "trusted" client, a non-European company that the airline chose not to name.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/balochistan-protest-march-against-extra-judicial-killings-672928">Balochistan protest march against extra judicial killings</a></strong></p>

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<p>The Romanian-based Legend Airlines maintains its innocence, asserting that it committed no offence and expressing readiness to cooperate with French authorities while reserving the right to take legal action if charges are filed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After 303 Indian passengers on a Nicaragua-bound plane were grounded by French authorities on Thursday (Dec 21), sources close to the Paris prosecutor's office told news agency Reuters that there are eleven unaccompanied minors among them.

After 303 Indian passengers on a Nicaragua-bound plane were grounded by French authorities on Thursday (Dec 21), sources close to the Paris prosecutor's office told news agency Reuters that there are eleven unaccompanied minors among them. The sources also disclosed that these unaccompanied minors are provided "ad-hoc tutors" by French authorities. Operated by Romanian charter company Legend Airlines, the flight was grounded at Vatry airport during a technical stopover en route from Dubai, Marne prefect's office reportedly said in a statement. The Indian Embassy has already received consular access to its citizens and officials from the Indian general consulate are regularly visiting the passengers to ensure their well-being during this unexpected situation, the prefect's office added. In the meantime, the Paris prosecutor's office is actively investigating a suspected case of human trafficking. Moreover, emergency services at northeast France's Marne have set up makeshift beds for the passengers. All the Indians are taken care of with access to toilets, showers, meals, and hot drinks. Also Read | Tesla recalls 120,000 cars which can unlock in crash in United States Meanwhile, two of the passengers have been held for questioning and they continue to remain in police custody as part of the ongoing investigation. The French authorities sprung into action after they received a tip-off by an anonymous informant, leading to the grounding of the plane. Plane crew released Liliana Bakayoko, a lawyer representing Legend Airlines, reportedly clarified that the crew has been released after questioning. She stated, "The members of the crew have been questioned, the questioning has ended, and they are all free to move. None has been put in custody." Also Read | United States condemns vandalism of Swaminarayan Temple in California Legend Airlines revealed that the flight was chartered by a "trusted" client, a non-European company that the airline chose not to name. Watch | Balochistan protest march against extra judicial killings × The Romanian-based Legend Airlines maintains its innocence, asserting that it committed no offence and expressing readiness to cooperate with French authorities while reserving the right to take legal action if charges are filed. (With inputs from agencies)

11 minors among 303 Indian passengers on flight grounded by France: Report

As millions of Americans plan their holiday travel, COVID levels are surging across the US, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand are also on guard.

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<p>In a concerning development, the Red Sea region has witnessed a significant surge in maritime security incidents, including missile attacks over the past two months, with the week from December 14 to 20 reporting the highest number of incidents in this period.</p>

<p>According to data released by the Gurugram-based Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), there were nine maritime security threats last week, a stark increase from the previous weeks.</p>

<p>The primary cause behind this escalation appears to have been the uptick in Houthi attacks originating from Yemen.</p>

<p>The Houthi rebels have been targeting vessels they suspect are heading to or from Israel, a response to Israeli actions in Gaza. Israel's substantial offensive in Gaza was triggered by a terror attack by Hamas in October.</p>

<p>During the week spanning from December 14 to 20, a staggering&nbsp;nine maritime security threats were reported, marking a significant escalation compared to the preceding week of December 7 to 13, which documented only two such incidents.</p>

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<p>The trend of rising security concerns continued from the week of November 30 to December 6, where five incidents were recorded.</p>

<p>In the preceding weeks, the situation unfolded with two incidents from November 23 to 29, a singular incident from November 16 to 22, and a notably calm week from November 9 to 15, with no reported incidents.</p>

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<p>When it comes to last week, on December 13, the tanker Mt Ardmore Encounter faced a missile attack from Yemen's Hodeidah, with two missiles being launched.</p>

<p>Simultaneously, a US Navy ship successfully intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle near Port Hodeidah. The following day, on December 14, MV Maersk Gibraltar became the target of a ballistic missile attack north of the Bab el Mandeb strait.</p>

<p>Fortunately, the missile exploded nearby, ensuring the safety of both the crew and the vessel. Two incidents unfolded on December 15, involving projectiles hitting vessels. MV Al Jasrah was struck by a projectile, and concurrently, MSC Palatium III was hit by a missile, both incidents originating from the Yemen region. In both cases, all crew members were reported safe.</p>

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<p>December 16 and 18 each witnessed two incidents. On December 16, a US Navy ship took down 14 unmanned aerial vehicles in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen, while a UK Navy ship shot down another UAV off the Yemen coast. On December 18, MT Swan Atlantic faced a projectile attack resulting in an explosion on the port quarter of the vessel.</p>

<p>Similarly, MSC Clara reported an explosion in the vicinity of Mokha, Yemen. Importantly, in both instances, the vessel and crew members were reported safe.</p>

<p>Throughout December, as indicated by the released data, incidents involving vessels being struck by missiles and the interception of drones have been recurrent.</p>

<p>A notable instance occurred on December 3 when three maritime security threats were documented. In the Bab el Mandab strait, a missile hit a Panama-flagged container vessel.</p>

<p>Concurrently, the Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier, Unity Explorer, faced a missile strike resulting in minor damages. The same day witnessed a drone missile attack targeting the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Sophie II in the Bab el Mandab.</p>

<p>Moving forward to December 11, the Norway-flagged tanker Strinda experienced a missile strike. In this case, a US Naval ship assisted and escorted the damaged vessel.</p>

<p>Amid the crisis in the Red Sea, India has been backing free movement of commercial shipping. Earlier in the week, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "have been supportive of the free movement of commercial shipping. So that is something that we are interested in".</p>

<p>He highlighted that India is "monitoring the developments there" and has been "part of efforts to ensure the safe transit of ships in the Arabian Sea and we value the free movement of commercial shipping".</p>

<p>The situation has prompted major shipping companies to rethink their routes, pausing passage through the Red Sea and opting for longer, alternative routes. This shift is likely to have a profound impact on global trade, potentially leading to disruptions in the supply chain and subsequently affecting oil and food prices. The extended travel times for vessels may contribute to increased global inflation.</p>

<p>India's Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) marks 5 years this week of its establishment. Known as India's eye on the Indian Ocean, it tracks vessel movements, and other maritime crimes, like illegal fishing, and piracy, and was established on December 22, 2018. Other information fusion centres in the region include, the Information fusion centre, Singapore and Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre, Antananarivo, Madagascar established in 2016 under the European Union’s Maritime Security Programme.</p>


In a concerning development, the Red Sea region has witnessed a significant surge in maritime security incidents, including missile attacks over the past two months, with the week from December 14 to 20 reporting the highest number of incidents in this period.

In a concerning development, the Red Sea region has witnessed a significant surge in maritime security incidents, including missile attacks over the past two months, with the week from December 14 to 20 reporting the highest number of incidents in this period. According to data released by the Gurugram-based Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), there were nine maritime security threats last week, a stark increase from the previous weeks. The primary cause behind this escalation appears to have been the uptick in Houthi attacks originating from Yemen. The Houthi rebels have been targeting vessels they suspect are heading to or from Israel, a response to Israeli actions in Gaza. Israel's substantial offensive in Gaza was triggered by a terror attack by Hamas in October. During the week spanning from December 14 to 20, a staggering nine maritime security threats were reported, marking a significant escalation compared to the preceding week of December 7 to 13, which documented only two such incidents. Also Read | India votes for 'permanent sovereignty of Palestinian people' at UN General Assembly The trend of rising security concerns continued from the week of November 30 to December 6, where five incidents were recorded. In the preceding weeks, the situation unfolded with two incidents from November 23 to 29, a singular incident from November 16 to 22, and a notably calm week from November 9 to 15, with no reported incidents. Also Read | US: Supreme Court refuses to hear Trump immunity case, delaying his trial When it comes to last week, on December 13, the tanker Mt Ardmore Encounter faced a missile attack from Yemen's Hodeidah, with two missiles being launched. Simultaneously, a US Navy ship successfully intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle near Port Hodeidah. The following day, on December 14, MV Maersk Gibraltar became the target of a ballistic missile attack north of the Bab el Mandeb strait. Fortunately, the missile exploded nearby, ensuring the safety of both the crew and the vessel. Two incidents unfolded on December 15, involving projectiles hitting vessels. MV Al Jasrah was struck by a projectile, and concurrently, MSC Palatium III was hit by a missile, both incidents originating from the Yemen region. In both cases, all crew members were reported safe. Watch | Last French troops leave Sahel as military cooperation officially ends × December 16 and 18 each witnessed two incidents. On December 16, a US Navy ship took down 14 unmanned aerial vehicles in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen, while a UK Navy ship shot down another UAV off the Yemen coast. On December 18, MT Swan Atlantic faced a projectile attack resulting in an explosion on the port quarter of the vessel. Similarly, MSC Clara reported an explosion in the vicinity of Mokha, Yemen. Importantly, in both instances, the vessel and crew members were reported safe. Throughout December, as indicated by the released data, incidents involving vessels being struck by missiles and the interception of drones have been recurrent. A notable instance occurred on December 3 when three maritime security threats were documented. In the Bab el Mandab strait, a missile hit a Panama-flagged container vessel. Concurrently, the Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier, Unity Explorer, faced a missile strike resulting in minor damages. The same day witnessed a drone missile attack targeting the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Sophie II in the Bab el Mandab. Moving forward to December 11, the Norway-flagged tanker Strinda experienced a missile strike. In this case, a US Naval ship assisted and escorted the damaged vessel. Amid the crisis in the Red Sea, India has been backing free movement of commercial shipping. Earlier in the week, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "have been supportive of the free movement of commercial shipping. So that is something that we are interested in". He highlighted that India is "monitoring the developments there" and has been "part of efforts to ensure the safe transit of ships in the Arabian Sea and we value the free movement of commercial shipping". The situation has prompted major shipping companies to rethink their routes, pausing passage through the Red Sea and opting for longer, alternative routes. This shift is likely to have a profound impact on global trade, potentially leading to disruptions in the supply chain and subsequently affecting oil and food prices. The extended travel times for vessels may contribute to increased global inflation. India's Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) marks 5 years this week of its establishment. Known as India's eye on the Indian Ocean, it tracks vessel movements, and other maritime crimes, like illegal fishing, and piracy, and was established on December 22, 2018. Other information fusion centres in the region include, the Information fusion centre, Singapore and Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre, Antananarivo, Madagascar established in 2016 under the European Union’s Maritime Security Programme.

Red Sea sees sharp rise in missile attacks, says data from India's key maritime body, IFC-IOR

On the issue of terrorism, the Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that the mood of the nation has now undergone a sea of change from the time when it was India was ready to turn the other cheek. He stressed that the time has now come to respond to cross-border terrorism and also to impose a cost.

India: EAM S Jaishankar says we must respond to cross-border terrorism

Anoushka Shankar, a nine-time Grammy-nominated musician, is a British-born Indian-American sitar player and musician. In this exclusive conversation with WION's Samarpita Das, Shankar talks about her latest album, 'Chapter 1: Forever, For Now'.

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India is mourning the death of artist and poet Imroz. The legend passed away at his Mumbai home at the age of 97 due to health-related issues. Now Beyond his art, Imroz is also known for his enduring relationship with Punjabi poetess Amrita Pritam.

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2023 was a memorable year for India a year on 23rd August 2023 as it was a historic day in space exploration when India successfully landed on the South Pole of the Moon an unexplored region of the lunar surface. Indians were overjoyed at the speed of the ISRO, India's space agency.

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French authorities have revealed that they grounded a flight bound for Nicaragua over suspected charges of human trafficking on Thursday. The flight was carrying over 300 Indian passengers who are believed to be victims of human trafficking. New Delhi says ensuring the wellbeing of Indian passengers.

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2023 was a memorable year for India a year after enduring severe disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine the global economy finally started showing signs of recovery in 2023. In the next report, we take a look at India world's fifth-largest economy how it remained buoyant in the year 2023.

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2023 was a memorable year for India a year when in recent years New Delhi has become a confident and influential voice of the global South. India the world's largest democracy has been actively advocating the interests of the global South. In our next report, we take a look at how in 2023 the world took note of issues concerns and aspirations of the Global South.

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2023 was a memorable year for India a year when 41 men were successfully rescued from a collapsed tunnel in the Indian Himalayas in late November. These men were trapped in an under-construction tunnel in the state of Uttarakhand. Take a look at how the rescue mission was planned and executed ending the 17-day.

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2023 was a memorable year for India a year when India hosted leaders from 20 countries and the most powerful economies of the world in New Delhi. We take a look at how India brought together Washington, China, Moscow and other nations in a joint community during the G20 summit.

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India's foreign exchange reserves nearing record high, despite RBI intervention. Import cover jumps despite the rupee near record lows.

India's foreign currency inflow rises despite RBI intervention

An unclaimed missile strike has resulted in a fire on board a merchant ship that reportedly was headed towards Israel in The Indian Ocean. The vessel is Affiliated with Israel and the Indian Coast Guard has been dispatched with a warship for immediate assistance to all people on board.

Israel-affiliated ship attacked in the Indian Ocean

The 2024 General Elections are nearing, and the political parties are gearing up for their strategy. PM Modi attends the BJP National Office bearer's meeting and advises party workers to go amidst people & interact. Watch the video to know more!

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<p>Chief Minister from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav&nbsp;went on to reveal a bold agenda for his government and vowed to relocate the Prime Meridian, the global reference for time, from Greenwich in England to Ujjain.</p>

<p>He highlighted the historical aspect of India's contribution to timekeeping while asserting that the world's standard time was originally established by India around 300 years ago.</p>

<p>The CM pointed out that an observatory in Ujjain carries proof that the centre point of the world is&nbsp;Ujjain.&nbsp;He also went on to argue that the current choice of the Prime Meridian, established during the International Meridian Conference in 1884, was influenced by historical reasons and the dominance of the British Empire in the 19th century.</p>

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<p>In response to the Governor in the state assembly, Chief Minister Yadav criticised the westernisation of timekeeping, stating, "India's standard time was known in the world some 300 years ago. However, Paris started to set the time and later, it was adopted by the British, who considered Greenwich the Prime Meridian."</p>

<p>Challenging the convention of starting a new day at midnight, Yadav questioned the practicality of such a timing, advocating for a shift to a system aligned with natural wake-up times, like sunrise. "Who starts the day at midnight?" he questioned.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"Our government is working to prove that Ujjain is the global Prime Meridian, and we will push to correct the time of the world," Yadav said.</p>

<p>In Hindu astronomy, the Prime Meridian is considered to pass through the city of Ujjain. Ujjain is known for its historical significance in Indian astronomy and mathematics and is considered as the starting point for measuring longitudes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-hindu-temple-defaced-with-pro-khalistani-slogans-672836">US: Hindu temple defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans</a></strong></p>

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<p>Highlighting his government's broader cultural revival plans, Yadav mentioned a roadmap for religious places in the state, covering locations from Mahakal Lok in Ujjain to Orchha, Salkanpur, and Maihar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chief Minister from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav went on to reveal a bold agenda for his government and vowed to relocate the Prime Meridian, the global reference for time, from Greenwich in England to Ujjain.

Chief Minister from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav went on to reveal a bold agenda for his government and vowed to relocate the Prime Meridian, the global reference for time, from Greenwich in England to Ujjain. He highlighted the historical aspect of India's contribution to timekeeping while asserting that the world's standard time was originally established by India around 300 years ago. The CM pointed out that an observatory in Ujjain carries proof that the centre point of the world is Ujjain. He also went on to argue that the current choice of the Prime Meridian, established during the International Meridian Conference in 1884, was influenced by historical reasons and the dominance of the British Empire in the 19th century. Also Read | India's Jaishankar rakes up 'extremism' after hate crime at Hindu temple in US In response to the Governor in the state assembly, Chief Minister Yadav criticised the westernisation of timekeeping, stating, "India's standard time was known in the world some 300 years ago. However, Paris started to set the time and later, it was adopted by the British, who considered Greenwich the Prime Meridian." Challenging the convention of starting a new day at midnight, Yadav questioned the practicality of such a timing, advocating for a shift to a system aligned with natural wake-up times, like sunrise. "Who starts the day at midnight?" he questioned. Also Read | India's Congress party makes key manifesto committee ahead of 2024 polls "Our government is working to prove that Ujjain is the global Prime Meridian, and we will push to correct the time of the world," Yadav said. In Hindu astronomy, the Prime Meridian is considered to pass through the city of Ujjain. Ujjain is known for its historical significance in Indian astronomy and mathematics and is considered as the starting point for measuring longitudes. Watch | US: Hindu temple defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans × Highlighting his government's broader cultural revival plans, Yadav mentioned a roadmap for religious places in the state, covering locations from Mahakal Lok in Ujjain to Orchha, Salkanpur, and Maihar. (With inputs from agencies)

'Who starts day at midnight': Indian CM claims Prime Meridian runs through Ujjain, vows to change world time

<p>Flights from Ayodhya's Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport will begin to operate for major Indian cities from&nbsp;January 6.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inaugurate&nbsp;the airport on December 30.</p>

<p>The recent successful landing of the Indian Air Force's Airbus A320 on December 22 at Ayodhya Airport marks a transformative period for the city, positioning it as a pivotal air travel hub in anticipation of the grand inauguration of the Ram Temple in January 2024.</p>

<p>Airline company Indigo&nbsp;is set to provide flights to major cities including Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Goa.</p>

<p>"We all know that the airstrip in Ayodhya was very small. We had only 178 acres of land here. We could not have a big international airport in such a small strip. Under Prime Minister Modi's direction, the proposal that was sent to the central government was approved. After being provided 821-acre land by the state government, the Airport Authority of India is working to develop the new airport on a war footing. The new airport will be ready by December 15," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said earlier this month.</p>

<p>Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the importance of Ayodhya's airport capturing the city's historical significance and cultural essence.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-temple-massive-108-feet-long-incense-stick-being-prepared-ahead-of-ram-temple-inauguration-672139">Also read |&nbsp;India: Massive 108-feet-long incense stick being prepared ahead of Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya</a></p>

<p>"When someone from the country or abroad visits an airport then he/she should get a glimpse of the city's historic significance. Hence Ayodhya's airport should not be just another airport. We have tried to incorporate Ayodhya's culture in its airport," Scindia said.</p>

<p>"The 6500 square metre airport can land two to three flights in an hour. 2200 metre runway will be constructed which will be extended to 3700 metres in the second stage. This will help all international planes to land at Ayodhya," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir inauguration: Preparations underway in Ayodhya</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>PM Modi to launch Ayodhya's Amrit Bharat Express and Vande Bharat trains&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Additionally,&nbsp;Ayodhya is prepared to introduce its inaugural Amrit Bharat Express. Reports indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on December 30 to inaugurate two new Amrit Bharat trains and six Vande Bharat trains. However, an official confirmation from the Prime Minister's Office is still pending.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Flights from Ayodhya's Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport will begin to operate for major Indian cities from January 6. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inaugurate the airport on December 30.

Flights from Ayodhya's Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport will begin to operate for major Indian cities from January 6. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inaugurate the airport on December 30. The recent successful landing of the Indian Air Force's Airbus A320 on December 22 at Ayodhya Airport marks a transformative period for the city, positioning it as a pivotal air travel hub in anticipation of the grand inauguration of the Ram Temple in January 2024. Airline company Indigo is set to provide flights to major cities including Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Goa. "We all know that the airstrip in Ayodhya was very small. We had only 178 acres of land here. We could not have a big international airport in such a small strip. Under Prime Minister Modi's direction, the proposal that was sent to the central government was approved. After being provided 821-acre land by the state government, the Airport Authority of India is working to develop the new airport on a war footing. The new airport will be ready by December 15," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said earlier this month. Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the importance of Ayodhya's airport capturing the city's historical significance and cultural essence. Also read | India: Massive 108-feet-long incense stick being prepared ahead of Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya "When someone from the country or abroad visits an airport then he/she should get a glimpse of the city's historic significance. Hence Ayodhya's airport should not be just another airport. We have tried to incorporate Ayodhya's culture in its airport," Scindia said. "The 6500 square metre airport can land two to three flights in an hour. 2200 metre runway will be constructed which will be extended to 3700 metres in the second stage. This will help all international planes to land at Ayodhya," he added. Also watch | Ram Mandir inauguration: Preparations underway in Ayodhya PM Modi to launch Ayodhya's Amrit Bharat Express and Vande Bharat trains Additionally, Ayodhya is prepared to introduce its inaugural Amrit Bharat Express. Reports indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on December 30 to inaugurate two new Amrit Bharat trains and six Vande Bharat trains. However, an official confirmation from the Prime Minister's Office is still pending. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ayodhya airport to link major cities starting Jan 6; Amrit Bharat train to become operational

French authorities have revealed that they grounded a flight bound for Nicaragua over suspected charges of human trafficking on Thursday. The flight was carrying over 300 Indian passengers who are believed to be victims of human trafficking.

Indian origin passengers grounded in France for 'Human Trafficking'

<p>Temples across the United States are gearing up for an extraordinary week-long celebration in North America to celebrate the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in the holy city of Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on January 22 next year, media reports said citing a representative of these temples.</p>

<p>Tejal Shah, spokesperson for the Hindu Mandirs Empowerment Council (HMEC), expressed the profound significance of this event, stating, “It's our fortune and blessings to us that we are part of this phenomenon and the temple of our dreams is getting materialised after centuries of wait and struggle. Everyone's emotions in the US and Canada are very high. Shraddha (devotion) is built up, and everyone is eagerly waiting to receive Bhagwan Shri Ram in his mandir.”</p>

<p>Ram temple in India was a long-standing and contentious matter that revolved around the Babri Masjid, a mosque that was built in the 16th century, and the belief among Hindus that the site is the birthplace of Lord Rama. In 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark verdict on the Ayodhya dispute ruling in favour of the construction of a Hindu temple at the disputed site, while also allocating an alternative piece of land to the Muslim community for the construction of a mosque.</p>

<p>The celebrations in US come as Hindu communities there engage in a variety of religious practices, including worship at temples, home rituals, and participation in festivals. Temples dedicated to various deities can be found throughout the country.</p>

<p>Now, as Ayodhya preps up for the grand celebrations, the Hindu Mandirs Empowerment Council (HMEC), representing over 1,100 Hindu Temples in the United States, is orchestrating a series of grand celebrations that will span from January 15 to the culminating live telecast of the Ram Temple inauguration from Ayodhya in India.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ayodhya-airport-to-link-major-cities-starting-jan-6-amrit-bharat-train-to-operate-as-well-672793">India: Ayodhya airport to link major cities starting Jan 6; Amrit Bharat train to operate as well</a></p>

<p>Anticipation is soaring, and thousands of Hindus are expected to witness the inauguration ceremony, according to Shah, who leads the HMEC.</p>

<p>She said, “At the end of the event, we will take a Sankalpa. For us, it will be the 21st of January night 11 pm Eastern time. So we will all join virtually on that night to celebrate Bhagwan Shree Ram’s pran pratishtha.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aditya-l1-mission-will-reach-destination-on-jan-6-isro-chief-672734">Aditya L1 mission will reach destination on Jan 6: ISRO chief</a></p>

<h2><strong>Dozens of temples enrolled</strong></h2>

<p>Dozens of temples have already enrolled for the event on January 15, featuring the Shri Ram Naam Sankirtan chanting by priests across North America.&nbsp;On January 21, the temples plan to illuminate the surroundings, broadcast the inauguration live, blow conch shells, and distribute prasadam.</p>

<p>Shah reportedly disclosed that all the participating temple will be honoured with a certificate of participation. Additionally, “Prasad” from Shree Ram Janma Bhumi Teerth Kshetra Trust will also be given to them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2024-view-hope-for-interest-rate-cuts-672789">2024 View: Hope for interest rate cuts</a></strong></p>

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<p>Adding to the global significance of the event, the Chief Priest of Janaki Temple in Nepal has confirmed receiving an invitation to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Temples across the United States are gearing up for an extraordinary week-long celebration in North America to celebrate the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in the holy city of Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on January 22 next year, media reports said citing a representative of these temples.

Temples across the United States are gearing up for an extraordinary week-long celebration in North America to celebrate the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in the holy city of Ayodhya in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on January 22 next year, media reports said citing a representative of these temples. Tejal Shah, spokesperson for the Hindu Mandirs Empowerment Council (HMEC), expressed the profound significance of this event, stating, “It's our fortune and blessings to us that we are part of this phenomenon and the temple of our dreams is getting materialised after centuries of wait and struggle. Everyone's emotions in the US and Canada are very high. Shraddha (devotion) is built up, and everyone is eagerly waiting to receive Bhagwan Shri Ram in his mandir.” Ram temple in India was a long-standing and contentious matter that revolved around the Babri Masjid, a mosque that was built in the 16th century, and the belief among Hindus that the site is the birthplace of Lord Rama. In 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark verdict on the Ayodhya dispute ruling in favour of the construction of a Hindu temple at the disputed site, while also allocating an alternative piece of land to the Muslim community for the construction of a mosque. The celebrations in US come as Hindu communities there engage in a variety of religious practices, including worship at temples, home rituals, and participation in festivals. Temples dedicated to various deities can be found throughout the country. Now, as Ayodhya preps up for the grand celebrations, the Hindu Mandirs Empowerment Council (HMEC), representing over 1,100 Hindu Temples in the United States, is orchestrating a series of grand celebrations that will span from January 15 to the culminating live telecast of the Ram Temple inauguration from Ayodhya in India. Also Read | India: Ayodhya airport to link major cities starting Jan 6; Amrit Bharat train to operate as well Anticipation is soaring, and thousands of Hindus are expected to witness the inauguration ceremony, according to Shah, who leads the HMEC. She said, “At the end of the event, we will take a Sankalpa. For us, it will be the 21st of January night 11 pm Eastern time. So we will all join virtually on that night to celebrate Bhagwan Shree Ram’s pran pratishtha.” Also Read | Aditya L1 mission will reach destination on Jan 6: ISRO chief Dozens of temples enrolled Dozens of temples have already enrolled for the event on January 15, featuring the Shri Ram Naam Sankirtan chanting by priests across North America. On January 21, the temples plan to illuminate the surroundings, broadcast the inauguration live, blow conch shells, and distribute prasadam. Shah reportedly disclosed that all the participating temple will be honoured with a certificate of participation. Additionally, “Prasad” from Shree Ram Janma Bhumi Teerth Kshetra Trust will also be given to them. Watch | 2024 View: Hope for interest rate cuts × Adding to the global significance of the event, the Chief Priest of Janaki Temple in Nepal has confirmed receiving an invitation to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya: US temples prepare for spectacular celebrations with live broadcast

A Hindu temple was defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans in California, US. The incident happened in Newark city.

US: Hindu temple defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans

<p>India’s maiden&nbsp;solar mission Aditya L1&nbsp;will reach its destination, the Lagrangian point (L1) which is located 1.5 million km from Earth, on January 6, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath said on Friday (Dec 22).</p>

<p>The mission, the first Indian space-based observatory to study the Sun from a halo orbit L1, was launched by ISRO on September 2 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) at Sriharikota. “Aditya L1 will enter the L1 point on January 6. That is what is expected. Exact time will be announced at appropriate time,” Somanath told mediapersons on the sidelines of the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan organised by Vijnana Bharati, an NGO working to popularise science.</p>

<p>“When it reaches the L1 point, we have to fire the engine once again so that it does not go further. It will go to that point, and once it reaches that point, it will rotate around it and will be trapped at L1,” he said. Once Aditya L1 reaches its destination, it will help measure various events happening on the Sun for the next five years. “Once it is successfully placed on L1 point, it will be there for the next five years, gathering all the data which are very important not for India alone but for the entire world.</p>

<p>The data will be very useful to understand the dynamics of the Sun and how it affects our life,” the ISRO chief said. How India is going to become a technologically powerful country is very important, he said while addressing the gathering. ISRO has made a plan to build an Indian space station, called ‘Bharatiya space station’ during the ‘Amrit Kaal’ as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s instructions, Somanath said.</p>

<p>“In the space sector we are seeing an emergence of new actors. We are going to support, encourage and build the economy around the new generation,” he said, adding that India cannot become a leader in everything and that it should focus on those sectors where it can.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India’s maiden solar mission Aditya L1 will reach its destination, the Lagrangian point (L1) which is located 1.5 million km from Earth, on January 6, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath said on Friday (Dec 22).

India’s maiden solar mission Aditya L1 will reach its destination, the Lagrangian point (L1) which is located 1.5 million km from Earth, on January 6, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath said on Friday (Dec 22). The mission, the first Indian space-based observatory to study the Sun from a halo orbit L1, was launched by ISRO on September 2 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) at Sriharikota. “Aditya L1 will enter the L1 point on January 6. That is what is expected. Exact time will be announced at appropriate time,” Somanath told mediapersons on the sidelines of the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan organised by Vijnana Bharati, an NGO working to popularise science. “When it reaches the L1 point, we have to fire the engine once again so that it does not go further. It will go to that point, and once it reaches that point, it will rotate around it and will be trapped at L1,” he said. Once Aditya L1 reaches its destination, it will help measure various events happening on the Sun for the next five years. “Once it is successfully placed on L1 point, it will be there for the next five years, gathering all the data which are very important not for India alone but for the entire world. The data will be very useful to understand the dynamics of the Sun and how it affects our life,” the ISRO chief said. How India is going to become a technologically powerful country is very important, he said while addressing the gathering. ISRO has made a plan to build an Indian space station, called ‘Bharatiya space station’ during the ‘Amrit Kaal’ as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s instructions, Somanath said. “In the space sector we are seeing an emergence of new actors. We are going to support, encourage and build the economy around the new generation,” he said, adding that India cannot become a leader in everything and that it should focus on those sectors where it can.

Aditya L1 mission will reach destination on Jan 6: ISRO chief

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