After six months of decline, China's exports grew in November. This however does not offer the full picture. Rising exports show that factories are offering discounts to beat falling demand.

China's exports grow 0.5% in November compared to last year

US sees India as a strategic partner but in the alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US washington is now urging new delhi that those behind the murder plot of the Khalistani terrorist need to be held accountable.

US urges India those behind Pannun murder plot to be held accountable | World DNA

Several parts of Chennai city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu are still heavily water-logged after cyclone Michaung.

Chennai reels under waterlogging and rains

Russia president Vladimir Putin praises Indian PM Narendra Modi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India.&nbsp;"Don't distance me from the public by making me 'Modi ji'. I am Modi," PM Modi reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Modi Ji" is often used by top leaders of the party and other party workers to refer to the prime minister in public discourse, such as news channel debates and party events.&nbsp;PM Modi's request to the leaders came as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was holding its parliamentary party meeting having secured a resounding victory in three out of four state elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament House complex, where the meeting took place, was filled with the&nbsp;chants of "Modi ji ka swagat hai" (translates in English as - We welcome PM Modi) coupled with loud applause.</p>

<p>While the prime minister was given a standing ovation by the leaders present at the meeting, Modi credited all of them for the win saying that it was not anyone's personal victory but was rather a collective win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cash-for-query-ethics-committee-report-against-mp-mahua-moitra-tabled-in-lower-house-667495">India: 'Cash for query' ethics committee report against MP Mahua Moitra tabled in lower house</a></p>

<p>Many senior leaders were present at the party meeting which also saw the presence of BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda, who felicitated the PM at the meeting.&nbsp;This was the BJP's first Parliamentary party meeting as Parliament's winter session kicked off on December 4 and is scheduled to continue till December 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-shifts-focus-from-ethanol-to-sugar-production-amid-supply-concerns-667476">India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns&nbsp;</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Hard work of all party workers': PM Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While addressing media personnel following the meet, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi said, "During the BJP Parliamentary party meeting today, PM Modi said it was the result of the hard work of all the party workers that the BJP achieved a massive victory in three states."</p>

<p>"The PM appreciated everyone's work. He also said that all BJP MPs and ministers have to participate in Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra from December 22 to 25 January," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-and-australias-bid-to-boost-strategic-cooperation-662556">India and Australia's bid to boost strategic cooperation</a></strong></p>

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<p>While quoting PM Modi, Joshi added that the Congress party faced elections 40 times in states and got success only on seven occasions whereas BJP got a chance to seek a repeat mandate 39 times and got success on 22 occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our percentage is 56 per cent and Congress'&nbsp;is 18 per cent. Thus the figures prove that people's biggest choice now is BJP," Joshi added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India. "Don't distance me from the public by making me 'Modi ji'. I am Modi," PM Modi reportedly said. "Modi Ji" is often used by top leaders of the party and other party workers to refer to the prime minister in public discourse, such as news channel debates and party events. PM Modi's request to the leaders came as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was holding its parliamentary party meeting having secured a resounding victory in three out of four state elections. Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament House complex, where the meeting took place, was filled with the chants of "Modi ji ka swagat hai" (translates in English as - We welcome PM Modi) coupled with loud applause. While the prime minister was given a standing ovation by the leaders present at the meeting, Modi credited all of them for the win saying that it was not anyone's personal victory but was rather a collective win. Also Read | India: 'Cash for query' ethics committee report against MP Mahua Moitra tabled in lower house Many senior leaders were present at the party meeting which also saw the presence of BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda, who felicitated the PM at the meeting. This was the BJP's first Parliamentary party meeting as Parliament's winter session kicked off on December 4 and is scheduled to continue till December 22. Also Read | India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns 'Hard work of all party workers': PM Modi While addressing media personnel following the meet, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi said, "During the BJP Parliamentary party meeting today, PM Modi said it was the result of the hard work of all the party workers that the BJP achieved a massive victory in three states." "The PM appreciated everyone's work. He also said that all BJP MPs and ministers have to participate in Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra from December 22 to 25 January," he added. Watch | India and Australia's bid to boost strategic cooperation × While quoting PM Modi, Joshi added that the Congress party faced elections 40 times in states and got success only on seven occasions whereas BJP got a chance to seek a repeat mandate 39 times and got success on 22 occasions. "Our percentage is 56 per cent and Congress' is 18 per cent. Thus the figures prove that people's biggest choice now is BJP," Joshi added. (With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to bridge gap with common Indians, PM Modi requests party leaders to drop 'Ji' from his name

Several parts of Chennai City in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu are still heavily water-logged after cyclone Michaung. In Chennai, weather officials predicted moderate rainfall with thunderstorms in several districts of Tamil Nadu and light rain in some others. Relief operations are currently underway while schools and colleges remain shut for the fifth day.

Cyclone Michaung aftermath: Chennai schools and colleges shut for 5th day

Over 400 Indian students have died overseas in The Last 5 Years. Government data reveals these deaths resulted from various reasons including accidents and natural disasters. Canada reported the highest number of deaths in a list of 34 Nations

403 Indian students died overseas since 2018

<p>Indian&nbsp;Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a spectacular video of the country's first bullet train station constructed at Sabarmati Multimodal transport hub in Ahmedabad on Thursday (Dec 7).<br />
<br />
The short video gave the viewers a sneak peek into the terminal's architectural marvel. The station, which is equipped with state-of-the-art modern features, has been designed keeping in mind&nbsp;passengers comfort and providing them with a memorable travel experience.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Terminal for India's first bullet train!<br />
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📍Sabarmati multimodal transport hub, Ahmedabad <a href="https://t.co/HGeoBETz9x">pic.twitter.com/HGeoBETz9x</a></p>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1732745355316625619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The train will first start operating between Ahmedabad and Mumbai. The ministry is executing the project with the Government of Japan's technical and financial support.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-new-delhis-aqi-turns-very-poor-again-temperature-likely-to-fall-667417">India: New Delhi's AQI turns 'very poor' again, temperature likely to fall</a></p>

<p>"Terminal for India's first bullet train! Sabarmati multimodal transport hub, Ahmedabad," wrote Vaishnaw, in the caption of his post.</p>

<h2><strong>Video grabs the attention of netizens</strong></h2>

<p>Since being shared, the&nbsp;video has grabbed the attention of the netizens and garnered more than 565,000 views and 20,000 likes. Commenting on the video,&nbsp;some users said that the terminal was glorious, others simply called it beautiful.<br />
<br />
"Such a glorious structure that's a blend of modernity and our Heritage! Amazing work is happening in the railways sector and this is going to propel our country to another level altogether," said one user.<br />
<br />
"Gift city, Metro, River front road and river front, Bullet train, Biggest cricket stadium, Sardar Sarovar, Statue of Unity, Rannostav, Highest Rooftop Solar in country," another wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;403 Indian student lives lost abroad, Canada with most deaths</strong></p>

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<p>Previously, the minister announced that the first bullet train section in the country, which is a 50km stretch between Surat and Bilimora in Gujarat, is set to be completed in August 2026.<br />
<br />
He also said that 100 km of viaducts and 230 km of pier work, which was a significant step, was completed for the larger part Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor.<br />
<br />
Since the work started in November 2021, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor has made steady progress. The bullet train project's foundation was laid in September 2017 in the Indian city of Ahmedabad.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a spectacular video of the country's first bullet train station constructed at Sabarmati Multimodal transport hub in Ahmedabad on Thursday (Dec 7).

Indian Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a spectacular video of the country's first bullet train station constructed at Sabarmati Multimodal transport hub in Ahmedabad on Thursday (Dec 7). The short video gave the viewers a sneak peek into the terminal's architectural marvel. The station, which is equipped with state-of-the-art modern features, has been designed keeping in mind passengers comfort and providing them with a memorable travel experience. Terminal for India's first bullet train! 📍Sabarmati multimodal transport hub, Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/HGeoBETz9x — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) December 7, 2023 × The train will first start operating between Ahmedabad and Mumbai. The ministry is executing the project with the Government of Japan's technical and financial support. Also read: India: New Delhi's AQI turns 'very poor' again, temperature likely to fall "Terminal for India's first bullet train! Sabarmati multimodal transport hub, Ahmedabad," wrote Vaishnaw, in the caption of his post. Video grabs the attention of netizens Since being shared, the video has grabbed the attention of the netizens and garnered more than 565,000 views and 20,000 likes. Commenting on the video, some users said that the terminal was glorious, others simply called it beautiful. "Such a glorious structure that's a blend of modernity and our Heritage! Amazing work is happening in the railways sector and this is going to propel our country to another level altogether," said one user. "Gift city, Metro, River front road and river front, Bullet train, Biggest cricket stadium, Sardar Sarovar, Statue of Unity, Rannostav, Highest Rooftop Solar in country," another wrote. Watch: 403 Indian student lives lost abroad, Canada with most deaths Previously, the minister announced that the first bullet train section in the country, which is a 50km stretch between Surat and Bilimora in Gujarat, is set to be completed in August 2026. He also said that 100 km of viaducts and 230 km of pier work, which was a significant step, was completed for the larger part Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor. Since the work started in November 2021, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor has made steady progress. The bullet train project's foundation was laid in September 2017 in the Indian city of Ahmedabad. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Indian railway minister posts video of first bullet train terminal

<p>In a bizarre incident, a group of robbers attempting to break into an ATM in Bengaluru's Nelamangala area inadvertently burned a significant sum of cash to ashes. The shocking episode left authorities and onlookers puzzled.</p>

<h2><strong>Attempted heist goes wrong</strong></h2>

<p>The robbers used a gas cutter in their attempt to forcefully access the Automated Teller Machine (ATM).</p>

<p>However, their efforts took an unexpected turn when the heat from the gas cutter ignited the stored currency notes, reducing them to ashes.</p>

<p>The exact amount of money destroyed in the incident is yet to be determined.</p>

<p>“Several currency notes stored in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) were reduced to ashes after a gang of thieves attempted to break it open using a gas cutter at Nelamangala on the city outskirts on Thursday,” Police told PTI.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/robbers-tunnel-through-wall-loot-3-million-in-daring-delhi-jewellery-heist-640063">Also read |&nbsp;India: Robbers tunnel through wall, loot $3 million in daring Delhi jewellery heist</a></p>

<p>Bank officials from the Mumbai branch detected the unusual incident through CCTV footage.</p>

<p>Swift action was taken as they alerted the building owner where the ATM was located. The building owner rushed to the scene, only to find the perpetrators had fled, leaving behind their equipment.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gold heist at Toronto airport; Cybercriminals using Netflix to scam users</strong></p>

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<p>Bengaluru City Police are actively investigating the matter, examining the CCTV footage for clues.</p>

<p>Initial findings suggest the involvement of two people in the failed heist. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are awaiting further details to piece together the sequence of events.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a bizarre incident, a group of robbers attempting to break into an ATM in Bengaluru's Nelamangala area inadvertently burned a significant sum of cash to ashes.

In a bizarre incident, a group of robbers attempting to break into an ATM in Bengaluru's Nelamangala area inadvertently burned a significant sum of cash to ashes. The shocking episode left authorities and onlookers puzzled. Attempted heist goes wrong The robbers used a gas cutter in their attempt to forcefully access the Automated Teller Machine (ATM). However, their efforts took an unexpected turn when the heat from the gas cutter ignited the stored currency notes, reducing them to ashes. The exact amount of money destroyed in the incident is yet to be determined. “Several currency notes stored in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) were reduced to ashes after a gang of thieves attempted to break it open using a gas cutter at Nelamangala on the city outskirts on Thursday,” Police told PTI. Also read | India: Robbers tunnel through wall, loot $3 million in daring Delhi jewellery heist Bank officials from the Mumbai branch detected the unusual incident through CCTV footage. Swift action was taken as they alerted the building owner where the ATM was located. The building owner rushed to the scene, only to find the perpetrators had fled, leaving behind their equipment. Also watch | Gold heist at Toronto airport; Cybercriminals using Netflix to scam users Bengaluru City Police are actively investigating the matter, examining the CCTV footage for clues. Initial findings suggest the involvement of two people in the failed heist. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are awaiting further details to piece together the sequence of events. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bengaluru ATM robbery goes wrong as thieves accidentally burn cash during heist

<p>The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert regarding the Meftal painkiller, saying the pill has&nbsp;adverse reactions associated with its constituent, mefenamic acid. The alert specifically mentions the risk of drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome.</p>

<p>Meftal, containing mefenamic acid, is commonly prescribed for various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.</p>

<p>DRESS syndrome is a severe allergic reaction linked to certain medications, with symptoms such as skin rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy appearing between two and eight weeks after drug intake.</p>

<p>"Healthcare professionals, patients/consumers are advised to closely monitor the possibility of the above adverse drug reaction (ADR) associated with the use of the suspected drug," according to the alert, issued on November 30.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-approves-medical-cannabis-use-toughens-recreational-marijuana-ban-in-landmark-drug-law-revision-667218">Also read |&nbsp;Japan approves medical cannabis use, toughens recreational marijuana ban in landmark drug law revision</a></p>

<h2><strong>What's the cautionary advice?</strong></h2>

<p>Healthcare professionals and patients are strongly advised to closely monitor the possibility of the mentioned adverse drug reaction associated with Meftal usage.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Unlocking the power of Traditional Medicine</strong></p>

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<p>"If such a reaction is encountered, people should report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI under the commission by filing a form on the website - www.ipc.gov.in - or through android mobile app ADR PvPI and PvPI helpline number 1800-180-3024," the release stated.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-14-fixed-dose-combination-drugs-including-nimesulide-and-paracetamol-report-600393">Also read |&nbsp;India bans 14 fixed-dose combination drugs including nimesulide and paracetamol: Report</a></p>

<p>The IPC urges vigilance for symptoms indicative of DRESS syndrome. In case such reactions are observed, individuals are encouraged to promptly report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI. Reporting can be done through the IPC's official website (<a href="http://www.ipc.gov.in/" target="_new">www.ipc.gov.in</a>), the android mobile app ADR PvPI, or the PvPI helpline number 1800-180-3024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert regarding the Meftal painkiller, saying the pill has adverse reactions associated with its constituent, mefenamic acid.

The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert regarding the Meftal painkiller, saying the pill has adverse reactions associated with its constituent, mefenamic acid. The alert specifically mentions the risk of drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome. Meftal, containing mefenamic acid, is commonly prescribed for various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain. DRESS syndrome is a severe allergic reaction linked to certain medications, with symptoms such as skin rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy appearing between two and eight weeks after drug intake. "Healthcare professionals, patients/consumers are advised to closely monitor the possibility of the above adverse drug reaction (ADR) associated with the use of the suspected drug," according to the alert, issued on November 30. Also read | Japan approves medical cannabis use, toughens recreational marijuana ban in landmark drug law revision What's the cautionary advice? Healthcare professionals and patients are strongly advised to closely monitor the possibility of the mentioned adverse drug reaction associated with Meftal usage. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Unlocking the power of Traditional Medicine "If such a reaction is encountered, people should report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI under the commission by filing a form on the website - www.ipc.gov.in - or through android mobile app ADR PvPI and PvPI helpline number 1800-180-3024," the release stated. Also read | India bans 14 fixed-dose combination drugs including nimesulide and paracetamol: Report The IPC urges vigilance for symptoms indicative of DRESS syndrome. In case such reactions are observed, individuals are encouraged to promptly report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI. Reporting can be done through the IPC's official website (www.ipc.gov.in), the android mobile app ADR PvPI, or the PvPI helpline number 1800-180-3024. (With inputs from agencies)

Taking painkiller Meftal casually? Indian government says it can cause adverse reactions

<p>India's central bank left its key repo rate unchanged at 6.5 per cent on Friday but warned elevated food inflation is still a concern.</p>

<p>After six consecutive rate hikes between April 2022 and February this year, the Reserve Bank of India has kept monetary policy on hold.</p>

<p>The likelihood the central bank hints at rate cuts was factored in before today's decision and comments from Governor Shaktikanta Das.</p>

<p>“Monetary policy will remain actively disinflationary,” said the governor.</p>

<p>But the RBI more or less dashed those expectations by sounding hawkish in its assessment of inflation.</p>

<p>Households hoping for some relief from already stretched budgets will, for now, have to deal with high borrowing costs.</p>

<p><b>RBI Policy: Inflation still a worry?</b></p>

<p>While inflation has eased for a few months, the central bank voiced concerns about food prices.</p>

<p>Retail inflation will remain above 5 per cent&nbsp;this fiscal year and next.</p>

<p>So, for consumers dealing with higher monthly payments towards their loans, any hope for them to come down anytime soon is just that - hope.</p>

<p><b>RBI Policy: Robust growth outlook</b></p>

<p>Despite a gloomy outlook for the global economy from the ongoing geopolitical unrest in West Asia and on the edge of Europe, the central bank sounded positive about the domestic economy.</p>

<p>Governor Das said India remains the fastest-growing major economy globally and has surprised everyone with its upside.</p>

<p>"The Indian economy presents a picture of resilience and momentum," according to Das.</p>

<p>"Growth remains resilient and robust, surprising everyone," he said.</p>

<p>After faster-than-anticipated growth in the July–September quarter, the central bank projects the economy to grow by 7 per cent&nbsp;in the current fiscal year, up from 6.5% in the previous year.</p>

<p>That helps the narrative for India's monetary policy on hold for longer as the country's bane for decades - supply-driven high inflation - still weighs on central bank decisions.</p>

<p>The deputy chief economist for emerging markets at Capital Economics, Shilan Shah, said, "The economy is performing exceptionally well, which limits any immediate need for looser policy."</p>

<p>RBI Governor said the inflation outlook, however, remains uncertain. He added that the near-term outlook is "masked by risks to food inflation."</p>

<p>On policy easing, Das said "loosening" was off the table, at the moment.</p>

<p><strong>RBI Policy:&nbsp;Ahead of the curve?</strong></p>

<p>The RBI wants to be ahead of the curve after dismissing rising price pressures as "transitory" in 2021, similar to reactions from major global central banks back then.</p>

<p>The world underestimated surging inflation and had to react more aggressively when price pressures soared to multi-decade highs globally.</p>

<p>But bets in recent months have increased for global interest rates to ease next year.</p>

<p>The RBI's tone suggested otherwise and pushed back on expectations for a rate cut cycle to later than earlier.</p>

<p><b>RBI Policy: What does it mean for consumers?</b></p>

<p>Clearly, the RBI's plans and commentary suggest there will be no respite from higher borrowing costs, especially for those with home loans.</p>

<p>The central bank's aggressive rate hikes pushed up equated monthly instalments for borrowers already dealing with higher prices of almost everything.</p>

<p>For some, the loan duration was increased by about five years.</p>

<p>Even if the RBI does start to cut rates at some point, the translation to lending costs will take longer.</p>

<p>Indeed, usually, banks pass on any change in rates on the up almost immediately to consumers but take longer to transmit any easing in interest rates.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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India's central bank left its key repo rate unchanged at 6.5 per cent on Friday but warned elevated food inflation is still a concern. After six consecutive rate hikes between April 2022 and February this year, the Reserve Bank of India has kept monetary policy on hold.

India's central bank left its key repo rate unchanged at 6.5 per cent on Friday but warned elevated food inflation is still a concern. After six consecutive rate hikes between April 2022 and February this year, the Reserve Bank of India has kept monetary policy on hold. The likelihood the central bank hints at rate cuts was factored in before today's decision and comments from Governor Shaktikanta Das. “Monetary policy will remain actively disinflationary,” said the governor. But the RBI more or less dashed those expectations by sounding hawkish in its assessment of inflation. Households hoping for some relief from already stretched budgets will, for now, have to deal with high borrowing costs. RBI Policy: Inflation still a worry? While inflation has eased for a few months, the central bank voiced concerns about food prices. Retail inflation will remain above 5 per cent this fiscal year and next. So, for consumers dealing with higher monthly payments towards their loans, any hope for them to come down anytime soon is just that - hope. RBI Policy: Robust growth outlook Despite a gloomy outlook for the global economy from the ongoing geopolitical unrest in West Asia and on the edge of Europe, the central bank sounded positive about the domestic economy. Governor Das said India remains the fastest-growing major economy globally and has surprised everyone with its upside. "The Indian economy presents a picture of resilience and momentum," according to Das. "Growth remains resilient and robust, surprising everyone," he said. After faster-than-anticipated growth in the July–September quarter, the central bank projects the economy to grow by 7 per cent in the current fiscal year, up from 6.5% in the previous year. That helps the narrative for India's monetary policy on hold for longer as the country's bane for decades - supply-driven high inflation - still weighs on central bank decisions. The deputy chief economist for emerging markets at Capital Economics, Shilan Shah, said, "The economy is performing exceptionally well, which limits any immediate need for looser policy." RBI Governor said the inflation outlook, however, remains uncertain. He added that the near-term outlook is "masked by risks to food inflation." On policy easing, Das said "loosening" was off the table, at the moment. RBI Policy: Ahead of the curve? The RBI wants to be ahead of the curve after dismissing rising price pressures as "transitory" in 2021, similar to reactions from major global central banks back then. The world underestimated surging inflation and had to react more aggressively when price pressures soared to multi-decade highs globally. But bets in recent months have increased for global interest rates to ease next year. The RBI's tone suggested otherwise and pushed back on expectations for a rate cut cycle to later than earlier. RBI Policy: What does it mean for consumers? Clearly, the RBI's plans and commentary suggest there will be no respite from higher borrowing costs, especially for those with home loans. The central bank's aggressive rate hikes pushed up equated monthly instalments for borrowers already dealing with higher prices of almost everything. For some, the loan duration was increased by about five years. Even if the RBI does start to cut rates at some point, the translation to lending costs will take longer. Indeed, usually, banks pass on any change in rates on the up almost immediately to consumers but take longer to transmit any easing in interest rates. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

RBI policy: Reserve Bank of India's hawkish pause keeps households on edge

<p>With Trinamool Congress leader and a sitting&nbsp;MP, Mahua Moitra remaining at the centre of the 'cash for query' whirlwind, the ethics committee report against her was tabled in the lower house of the Indian Parliament on Friday (Dec 8).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As ruckus broke out in the house, it was adjourned till 2 pm. The report made recommendations to expel the sitting MP after she allegedly shared her Parliamentary login credentials with a businessman friend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last week of November, India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), reportedly kicked off a probe into the allegations against Moitra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report was tabled in the lower house by Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Vijay Sonkar.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-shifts-focus-from-ethanol-to-sugar-production-amid-supply-concerns-667476">India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The house proceedings were halted earlier as well when it adjourned till 12 noon with opposition lawmakers&nbsp;reacting to the ethics committee report as soon as the Question hour was initiated. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Lower House Speaker Om Birla pulled Congress Leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury over his interruption in the house proceedings as the leader mentioned in the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zoram-peoples-movement-leader-lalduhoma-swears-in-as-mizorams-new-chief-minister-667468">India: Lalduhoma sworn in as Mizoram's new chief minister</a></p>

<p>Birla assured that the matter is listed and will be taken up. "The matter has not been taken up yet... Question Hour is your time, you can ask questions," he said, adding, "This is not as per the rules of procedure. It is there in the list of business, when it is taken up I will provide you enough time to speak."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Goddess Durga has now arrived'</strong></h2>

<p>As TMC MP Mahua Moitra was entering the lower house she said in Hindi, "Maa Durga aa gayi hai, ab dekhenge...Jab naash manuj par chhata hai, pehle vivek mar jaata hai. They have started 'vastraharan' and now you will watch 'Mahabharat ka rann'."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-urges-india-those-behind-pannun-murder-plot-to-be-held-accountable-667479">White House urges India those behind Pannun murder plot to be held accountable</a></strong></p>

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<p>An English translation of this is, "Goddess Durga has now arrived, now we will see.... when calamity befalls on a human, his wisdom dies. They have started disrobing of clothes and now you will watch another Mahabharat unfold." Mahabharat is an epic of ancient India and is revered in Hinduism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as in early November, Mahua Moitra with other Opposition members by her side, stormed out of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee meeting and accused it of posing unethical and “filthy questions" to her.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


With Trinamool Congress leader and a sitting MP, Mahua Moitra remaining at the centre of the 'cash for query' whirlwind, the ethics committee report against her was tabled in the lower house of the Indian Parliament on Friday (Dec 8).

With Trinamool Congress leader and a sitting MP, Mahua Moitra remaining at the centre of the 'cash for query' whirlwind, the ethics committee report against her was tabled in the lower house of the Indian Parliament on Friday (Dec 8). As ruckus broke out in the house, it was adjourned till 2 pm. The report made recommendations to expel the sitting MP after she allegedly shared her Parliamentary login credentials with a businessman friend. In the last week of November, India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), reportedly kicked off a probe into the allegations against Moitra. The report was tabled in the lower house by Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Vijay Sonkar. Also Read | India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns The house proceedings were halted earlier as well when it adjourned till 12 noon with opposition lawmakers reacting to the ethics committee report as soon as the Question hour was initiated. Lower House Speaker Om Birla pulled Congress Leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury over his interruption in the house proceedings as the leader mentioned in the report. Also Read | India: Lalduhoma sworn in as Mizoram's new chief minister Birla assured that the matter is listed and will be taken up. "The matter has not been taken up yet... Question Hour is your time, you can ask questions," he said, adding, "This is not as per the rules of procedure. It is there in the list of business, when it is taken up I will provide you enough time to speak." 'Goddess Durga has now arrived' As TMC MP Mahua Moitra was entering the lower house she said in Hindi, "Maa Durga aa gayi hai, ab dekhenge...Jab naash manuj par chhata hai, pehle vivek mar jaata hai. They have started 'vastraharan' and now you will watch 'Mahabharat ka rann'." Watch | White House urges India those behind Pannun murder plot to be held accountable × An English translation of this is, "Goddess Durga has now arrived, now we will see.... when calamity befalls on a human, his wisdom dies. They have started disrobing of clothes and now you will watch another Mahabharat unfold." Mahabharat is an epic of ancient India and is revered in Hinduism. This comes as in early November, Mahua Moitra with other Opposition members by her side, stormed out of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee meeting and accused it of posing unethical and “filthy questions" to her. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 'Cash for query' ethics committee report against MP Mahua Moitra tabled in lower house

<p>Amid a stormy winter session parliament, India's Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict on the validity of the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution, that had given special status to Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir. The ruling is expected on December 11.</p>

<p>The Indian government on 5 August 2019 abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution and completed the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, namely Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The abrogation of Article 370, the move which snipped Jammu and Kashmir's special status, triggered a protest from the opposition, which termed it a "black day" in the constitutional history of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-strategic-partner-but-ones-behind-assassination-plot-should-be-held-accountable-white-house-667394">India strategic partner but ones behind assassination plot should be 'held accountable': White House</a></p>

<p>The decision, which is now a few days away, comes after the apex court heard 20 pleas' batch, which challenged the government decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hearing, which began on&nbsp;August 2 with a 5-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, went on for a total of 16 days. The court later reserved its verdict on September 5. The judges on the bench include Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, and Surya Kant.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-atm-robbery-goes-wrong-as-thieves-accidentally-burn-cash-during-heist-667248">Bengaluru ATM robbery goes wrong as thieves accidentally burn cash during heist</a></p>

<p>The petitions were filed through senior lawyers, including Kapil Sibal, Gopal Subramanium, Rajeev Dhavan, Dushyant Dave, and Gopal Sankaranarayanan.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the petitions say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The petitioners decried the government's decision claiming that it undermines India's federal structure and is a sheer misuse of power that comes with the government's majority in the lower house of the Parliament.</p>

<p>It also termed it a “fraud on the Constitution." Petitioners in 2020 also urged the court to transfer the case to a seven-judge Constitution Bench. However, SC did not accede to this demand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-unesco-celebrates-garba-and-iftar-embracing-cultural-diversity-667375">Gravitas: UNESCO Celebrates Garba and Iftar: Embracing Cultural Diversity</a></strong></p>

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<p>With the Parliament Winter Session ongoing, Home Minister Amit Shah has unleashed his political war of words against India's former PM Jawaharlal Nehru, criticising his historical policies on Kashmir. He termed it a "blunder" as he suggested that to take the Kashmir issue to the UN was a move uncalled for.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Nehru himself wrote to Sheikh Abdullah admitting that when our army was winning, we should not have agreed to the ceasefire. He himself admitted they could have negotiated better (at the UN). PoK, which is ours anyway, would have been with us today if the right steps were taken. So much land of the country was lost. I say these were not mistakes. These were two historic blunders," the Home Minister said in Parliament.</p>

<p>“I support the word that was used — Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru, happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years," Shah reportedly added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid a stormy winter session parliament, India's Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict on the validity of the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution, that had given special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Amid a stormy winter session parliament, India's Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict on the validity of the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution, that had given special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The ruling is expected on December 11. The Indian government on 5 August 2019 abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution and completed the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, namely Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The abrogation of Article 370, the move which snipped Jammu and Kashmir's special status, triggered a protest from the opposition, which termed it a "black day" in the constitutional history of India. Also Read | India strategic partner but ones behind assassination plot should be 'held accountable': White House The decision, which is now a few days away, comes after the apex court heard 20 pleas' batch, which challenged the government decision. The hearing, which began on August 2 with a 5-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, went on for a total of 16 days. The court later reserved its verdict on September 5. The judges on the bench include Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, and Surya Kant. Also Read | Bengaluru ATM robbery goes wrong as thieves accidentally burn cash during heist The petitions were filed through senior lawyers, including Kapil Sibal, Gopal Subramanium, Rajeev Dhavan, Dushyant Dave, and Gopal Sankaranarayanan. What did the petitions say? The petitioners decried the government's decision claiming that it undermines India's federal structure and is a sheer misuse of power that comes with the government's majority in the lower house of the Parliament. It also termed it a “fraud on the Constitution." Petitioners in 2020 also urged the court to transfer the case to a seven-judge Constitution Bench. However, SC did not accede to this demand. Watch | Gravitas: UNESCO Celebrates Garba and Iftar: Embracing Cultural Diversity × With the Parliament Winter Session ongoing, Home Minister Amit Shah has unleashed his political war of words against India's former PM Jawaharlal Nehru, criticising his historical policies on Kashmir. He termed it a "blunder" as he suggested that to take the Kashmir issue to the UN was a move uncalled for. “Nehru himself wrote to Sheikh Abdullah admitting that when our army was winning, we should not have agreed to the ceasefire. He himself admitted they could have negotiated better (at the UN). PoK, which is ours anyway, would have been with us today if the right steps were taken. So much land of the country was lost. I say these were not mistakes. These were two historic blunders," the Home Minister said in Parliament. “I support the word that was used — Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru, happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years," Shah reportedly added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: SC verdict on scrapping of Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu & Kashmir set for Dec 11

<p>Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher A Wray is scheduled to visit India on December 11-12 and engage with top officials from the central intelligence agencies and the Ministry of Home Affairs, local reports said citing undisclosed sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This development comes at a critical juncture as US federal prosecutors charged an Indian national and an unnamed Indian official for plotting to kill Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an India-designated terrorist who currently lives in the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-parliament-bombing-threat-why-is-khalistani-terrorist-pannun-still-free-in-america-gravitas-666961">latest episode </a>of "Gravitas," WION questioned the deafening silence of the United States and no action against Pannun as he remains free on American soil despite the gravity of the situation and the repeated threats issued by him, including threatening to blow up India's&nbsp;Parliament building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against this backdrop, Wray will hold a conversation with National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief Dinkar Gupta, reportedly on three crucial issues of Khalistan terrorism, the nexus with gangsters, and Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>Wray's upcoming visit to India takes on heightened significance as this is his first trip since assuming office in 2017, and notably, the first visit by an FBI director in 12 years.</p>

<p>The discussions between Wray and NIA officials are anticipated to cover a spectrum of issues, including cases and evidence against Pannun, the chief of the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), in addition to the activities of US-based gangster Darmanjot Singh Kahlon, implicated in supplying weapons to kill Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala.</p>

<p>Khalistan supporters who are accused of vandalising the Indian Consulate in San Francisco will also feature in the discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-jinping-hold-talks-with-eus-von-der-leyen-and-charles-michel-in-beijing-667036">China's Xi Jinping holds talks with EU's von der Leyen and Charles Michel in Beijing</a></p>

<h2><strong>New Delhi on high alert&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>New Delhi remains on high alert as Pannun, through a chilling video, explicitly vowed to "shake the very foundations of Parliament" on or before December 13, marking the anniversary of the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament.</p>

<p>The 2001 incident, perpetrated by heavily armed terrorists backed by Pakistan, resulted in the tragic deaths of several security personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding to the complexity, tensions between India and Canada have escalated over the killing of another Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tragic-year-boris-johnsons-apologies-over-covid-19-pandemic-handling-met-with-signs-of-dead-cant-hear-667029">Boris Johnson's apologies over COVID-19 pandemic handling met with signs of 'dead can't hear'. Watch</a></p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-launches-first-of-its-kind-nuclear-reactor-plant-designed-to-use-fuel-more-efficiently-667053">China launches first-of-its-kind nuclear reactor, plant designed to use fuel more efficiently</a></strong></p>

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<p>The importance of this visit also lies in its departure from the usual norm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Usually, officials of the NIA and central intelligence agencies meet the FBI’s legal attache to discuss their cases and criminals. This is the first time that they are going to present all the evidence and cases before the FBI director,” reports said citing sources.</p>

<p>Wray's delegation will comprise the FBI legal attache team, US Embassy personnel and national security and law enforcement officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher A Wray is scheduled to visit India on December 11-12 and engage with top officials from the central intelligence agencies and the Ministry of Home Affairs, local reports said citing undisclosed sources.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher A Wray is scheduled to visit India on December 11-12 and engage with top officials from the central intelligence agencies and the Ministry of Home Affairs, local reports said citing undisclosed sources. This development comes at a critical juncture as US federal prosecutors charged an Indian national and an unnamed Indian official for plotting to kill Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an India-designated terrorist who currently lives in the US. In the latest episode of "Gravitas," WION questioned the deafening silence of the United States and no action against Pannun as he remains free on American soil despite the gravity of the situation and the repeated threats issued by him, including threatening to blow up India's Parliament building. Against this backdrop, Wray will hold a conversation with National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief Dinkar Gupta, reportedly on three crucial issues of Khalistan terrorism, the nexus with gangsters, and Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Wray's upcoming visit to India takes on heightened significance as this is his first trip since assuming office in 2017, and notably, the first visit by an FBI director in 12 years. The discussions between Wray and NIA officials are anticipated to cover a spectrum of issues, including cases and evidence against Pannun, the chief of the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), in addition to the activities of US-based gangster Darmanjot Singh Kahlon, implicated in supplying weapons to kill Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Khalistan supporters who are accused of vandalising the Indian Consulate in San Francisco will also feature in the discussions. Also Read | China's Xi Jinping holds talks with EU's von der Leyen and Charles Michel in Beijing New Delhi on high alert New Delhi remains on high alert as Pannun, through a chilling video, explicitly vowed to "shake the very foundations of Parliament" on or before December 13, marking the anniversary of the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament. The 2001 incident, perpetrated by heavily armed terrorists backed by Pakistan, resulted in the tragic deaths of several security personnel. Adding to the complexity, tensions between India and Canada have escalated over the killing of another Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Also Read | Boris Johnson's apologies over COVID-19 pandemic handling met with signs of 'dead can't hear'. Watch Watch | China launches first-of-its-kind nuclear reactor, plant designed to use fuel more efficiently × The importance of this visit also lies in its departure from the usual norm. “Usually, officials of the NIA and central intelligence agencies meet the FBI’s legal attache to discuss their cases and criminals. This is the first time that they are going to present all the evidence and cases before the FBI director,” reports said citing sources. Wray's delegation will comprise the FBI legal attache team, US Embassy personnel and national security and law enforcement officials. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI chief Christopher A Wray to visit India next week amid deafening silence on Pannun's chilling threats

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Taiwan-based manufacturing giants, Foxconn and Pegatron, have temporarily halted the production of Apple iPhones at their factories near Chennai in southern India due to the adverse impact of heavy rains, Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The city of Chennai in India's Tamil Nadu state, a major electronics and manufacturing hub, is experiencing&nbsp;severe flooding amid heavy rains, leading to the shutdown of the airport and disrupting regular operations. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The extreme weather conditions are attributed to Cyclone Michaung, which is progressing down the coast towards the neighbouring state of Andhra Pradesh.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">"Foxconn, which employs about 35,000 people at its Tamil Nadu iPhone factory, has yet to decide whether to resume production on Tuesday," revealed two sources familiar with the situation. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Foxconn has been actively expanding its presence in India, investing in manufacturing locations in the southern part of the country as part of Apple's strategy to diversify production away from China.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">In the quarter ending September, Apple witnessed its highest-ever quarterly shipments from India, exceeding 2.5 million units, as per data from market analytics firm Counterpoint Research.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, the current disruption in production raises concerns about the potential impact on Apple's supply chain and its ability to meet market demands.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This isn't the first time Pegatron has faced production disruptions in recent months. The company had to temporarily cease iPhone assembly in September due to a fire incident at its factory.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span lang="EN-GB">(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Taiwan-based manufacturing giants, Foxconn and Pegatron, have temporarily halted the production of Apple iPhones at their factories near Chennai in southern India due to the adverse impact of heavy rains, Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter.

Taiwan-based manufacturing giants, Foxconn and Pegatron, have temporarily halted the production of Apple iPhones at their factories near Chennai in southern India due to the adverse impact of heavy rains, Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter. The city of Chennai in India's Tamil Nadu state, a major electronics and manufacturing hub, is experiencing severe flooding amid heavy rains, leading to the shutdown of the airport and disrupting regular operations. The extreme weather conditions are attributed to Cyclone Michaung, which is progressing down the coast towards the neighbouring state of Andhra Pradesh. "Foxconn, which employs about 35,000 people at its Tamil Nadu iPhone factory, has yet to decide whether to resume production on Tuesday," revealed two sources familiar with the situation. Foxconn has been actively expanding its presence in India, investing in manufacturing locations in the southern part of the country as part of Apple's strategy to diversify production away from China. In the quarter ending September, Apple witnessed its highest-ever quarterly shipments from India, exceeding 2.5 million units, as per data from market analytics firm Counterpoint Research. However, the current disruption in production raises concerns about the potential impact on Apple's supply chain and its ability to meet market demands. This isn't the first time Pegatron has faced production disruptions in recent months. The company had to temporarily cease iPhone assembly in September due to a fire incident at its factory. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Extreme weather halts iPhone production in India: Foxconn & Pegatron face disruptions

<p>In a key trilateral initiative, India and the United States joined forces to train doctors and health officials from Fiji. India trained doctors and health officials from Fiji under two distinct capacity-building programmes in October with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). They were trained in Psycho Social Care and Telemedicine areas.</p>

<p>The training sessions took place at two prestigious institutions: the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bangalore and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) in Mohali.</p>

<p>With approximately 20 officials participating in each program, the initiative underscores a joint India-US commitment to comprehensive skill development in the pacific.</p>

<p>US Ambassador Garcetti, speaking at the Global Technology Summit 2023 in Delhi, lauded the collaborative effort, citing it as the "largest training ever" under the trilateral development program.</p>

<p>He said, "Recently, we had doctors come from Fiji, the largest training ever for something called the trilateral development programme that we got together with the Ministry of External Affairs and our USAID training doctors and nurses in medicine in the most remote parts of Fiji, Trained by Indians, partially funded by Americans here in Delhi."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Fiji's Deputy PM Prasad speaks to WION, says 'Fiji considers India an old friend'</strong></p>

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<p>The ambassador also envisioned leveraging India's expertise in digital technologies to extend support to Pacific Island countries, African nations, and Southeast Asian countries.</p>

<p>He emphasised the potential of incorporating India's advancements in digital identification (DPI) and digital payments into these regions in collaboration&nbsp;with US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This initiative aligns with India's broader diplomatic outreach to the Pacific region.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Prime Minister Modi attended the 3rd Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, announcing a comprehensive 12-step action plan to strengthen partnerships. Initiatives included establishing a 100-bed regional super-specialty hospital in Fiji and creating a regional IT and cybersecurity training hub in Papua New Guinea.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India announces a 12 step action plan to strengthen ties with Pacific, including setting up of 100 bed hospital in Fiji, Jaipur foot camp in Papua New Guinea, sea ambulances, dialysis units. Announcement by MEA: <a href="https://t.co/CHk1pc9SFu">pic.twitter.com/CHk1pc9SFu</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1660495693507706880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, on Wednesday (Dec 6), in a demonstration of humanitarian solidarity, India has provided immediate relief assistance of US$1 million to Papua New Guinea in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption at Mount Ulawun, necessitating the evacuation of over 26,000 people.</p>


In a key trilateral initiative, India and the United States joined forces to train doctors and health officials from Fiji. India trained doctors and health officials from Fiji under two distinct capacity-building programmes in October with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

In a key trilateral initiative, India and the United States joined forces to train doctors and health officials from Fiji. India trained doctors and health officials from Fiji under two distinct capacity-building programmes in October with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). They were trained in Psycho Social Care and Telemedicine areas. The training sessions took place at two prestigious institutions: the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bangalore and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) in Mohali. With approximately 20 officials participating in each program, the initiative underscores a joint India-US commitment to comprehensive skill development in the pacific. US Ambassador Garcetti, speaking at the Global Technology Summit 2023 in Delhi, lauded the collaborative effort, citing it as the "largest training ever" under the trilateral development program. He said, "Recently, we had doctors come from Fiji, the largest training ever for something called the trilateral development programme that we got together with the Ministry of External Affairs and our USAID training doctors and nurses in medicine in the most remote parts of Fiji, Trained by Indians, partially funded by Americans here in Delhi." Also watch | Fiji's Deputy PM Prasad speaks to WION, says 'Fiji considers India an old friend' × The ambassador also envisioned leveraging India's expertise in digital technologies to extend support to Pacific Island countries, African nations, and Southeast Asian countries. He emphasised the potential of incorporating India's advancements in digital identification (DPI) and digital payments into these regions in collaboration with US. This initiative aligns with India's broader diplomatic outreach to the Pacific region. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Modi attended the 3rd Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea, announcing a comprehensive 12-step action plan to strengthen partnerships. Initiatives included establishing a 100-bed regional super-specialty hospital in Fiji and creating a regional IT and cybersecurity training hub in Papua New Guinea. India announces a 12 step action plan to strengthen ties with Pacific, including setting up of 100 bed hospital in Fiji, Jaipur foot camp in Papua New Guinea, sea ambulances, dialysis units. Announcement by MEA: pic.twitter.com/CHk1pc9SFu — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 22, 2023 × Meanwhile, on Wednesday (Dec 6), in a demonstration of humanitarian solidarity, India has provided immediate relief assistance of US$1 million to Papua New Guinea in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption at Mount Ulawun, necessitating the evacuation of over 26,000 people.

India trains doctors from Fiji in collaboration with the US

Rescue and relief operations continue in flooded or waterlogged parts of Chennai city and adjoining regions as of Thursday afternoon, despite it being more than 60hours since the last spell of rain, as a result of the severe cyclonic storm Michaung. The city has been experiencing bright and sunny weather since Tuesday. Teams of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force(IAF), Indian Navy(IN), Indian Coast Guard(ICG) and National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) continue have been rendering humanitarian aid and assistance to the people, on the request of the Tamil Nadu government.

Cyclone Michaung updates: Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh reel under floods

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Smoke & ash cloud blanketed the sky in Papua New Guinea. India will provide immediate relief assistance of over $1 million to Papua New Guinea in the wake of a volcanic eruption.

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<p>Rescue and relief operations continue in flooded and&nbsp;waterlogged parts of the southern Indian city of Chennai and its adjoining regions as of Thursday (Dec 7) afternoon. Despite&nbsp;being more than 60 hours since the last spell of rain lashed the city&nbsp;as a result of the severe cyclonic storm Michaung, rescue&nbsp;operations have continued.</p>

<p>The city has been experiencing bright and sunny weather since Tuesday. Teams of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy (IN), Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been continuously rendering humanitarian aid and assistance to the people, on the request of the Tamil Nadu government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the latest information, Indian Army teams have rescued and evacuated more than 3500 people from across flooded localities in Chennai and adjoining areas, whereas the Indian Navy teams have evacuated more than 700. The evacuations by boats have been carried out during day and night time. Additionally, food and water were also supplied via boats to the residents of localities with severe waterlogging.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Over the last 3 days, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> has rescued a total of ~3500 ppl marooned amid <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloods</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Michaungcyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Michaungcyclone</a><br />
<br />
All these rescues happened during day &amp; night- in areas with severe flooding, no lights, poor network..pregnant women, infants &amp; parents, elderly among rescued <a href="https://t.co/gEqIDKMlEW">https://t.co/gEqIDKMlEW</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1732414455894712767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Teams of the NDRF that had been deployed well before the cyclone and resultant rains&nbsp;continue to provide succour to affected people.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian coast guard helicopters - Chetak and ALH-Mk3 (in video) air dropped food&amp; water supplies at flooded areas in Cholavaram <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloods</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloodRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloodRelief</a><br />
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Ground Teams also involved in rescue<br />
<br />
8 ICG ships &amp; 2 aircraft ensured ZERO loss of life &amp; property at sea during… <a href="https://t.co/HppoYML9v1">pic.twitter.com/HppoYML9v1</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1732406458908893511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The IAF deployed four Chetak helicopters from the Air Force Station, Tambaram&nbsp;in Chennai, to air-drop dry food and water supplies provided by the Tamil Nadu Government authorities. The Air Force choppers have been carrying out sorties since Tuesday evening and this effort continues with more than 2.3 tonnes of supplies being dropped.</p>

<p>The Indian Coast Guard also deployed its&nbsp;Advanced Light Helicopter Mark III and Chetak for similar efforts in the outskirts of Chennai. Coast Guard ground teams have also been carrying out evacuation via boats.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Air Force choppers continue air drop of essential supplies(dry food &amp; water) for third day in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> &amp; adjoining areas<br />
<br />
Already dropped 2.3tons of supplies using 4x Chetak helicopters from Flying Instructor's School AFS Tambaram <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFlood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFlood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloodRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloodRelief</a>… <a href="https://t.co/6geuwgnaQP">pic.twitter.com/6geuwgnaQP</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1732616518809346082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian Coast Guard also ensured that no lives or property were lost at sea, during the various stages of the evolution of cyclone Michuang and its impact along the coast of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Working with all stakeholders, the ICG ensured the safe return of nearly 3000 fishing boats. The ICG deployed eight ships and two aircraft for patrolling and maintaining vigil in the waters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While large parts of the city and arterial roads have returned to a considerable level of normalcy, there are areas in the city and in the outskirts that still remain waterlogged. Therefore, these areas have been without power supply for more than four days which has caused hardships to the residents there.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Karpagam, 9-months pregnant, was rescued by <a href="https://twitter.com/04NDRF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@04NDRF</a> during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloods</a>, from Madipakkam on Tuesday &amp;admitted to Kamakshi hospital<br />
<br />
Yesterday, she delivered a baby girl❤️😊<br />
<br />
Team led by - Asst Comdt Sudhakar, Cmdr Rahul <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiHelps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiHelps</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiFloods2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiFloods2023</a>… <a href="https://t.co/pqE73Flp7O">pic.twitter.com/pqE73Flp7O</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1732691699905012219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, in a heartening incident, the NDRF shared that a nine-month pregnant woman whom they had rescued and hospitalised on Tuesday, delivered a&nbsp;baby girl on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>


Rescue and relief operations continue in flooded and waterlogged parts of the southern Indian city of Chennai and its adjoining regions as of Thursday (Dec 7) afternoon.

Rescue and relief operations continue in flooded and waterlogged parts of the southern Indian city of Chennai and its adjoining regions as of Thursday (Dec 7) afternoon. Despite being more than 60 hours since the last spell of rain lashed the city as a result of the severe cyclonic storm Michaung, rescue operations have continued. The city has been experiencing bright and sunny weather since Tuesday. Teams of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy (IN), Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been continuously rendering humanitarian aid and assistance to the people, on the request of the Tamil Nadu government. As per the latest information, Indian Army teams have rescued and evacuated more than 3500 people from across flooded localities in Chennai and adjoining areas, whereas the Indian Navy teams have evacuated more than 700. The evacuations by boats have been carried out during day and night time. Additionally, food and water were also supplied via boats to the residents of localities with severe waterlogging. Over the last 3 days, the #IndianArmy has rescued a total of ~3500 ppl marooned amid #ChennaiFloods #Michaungcyclone All these rescues happened during day & night- in areas with severe flooding, no lights, poor network..pregnant women, infants & parents, elderly among rescued https://t.co/gEqIDKMlEW — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 6, 2023 × Teams of the NDRF that had been deployed well before the cyclone and resultant rains continue to provide succour to affected people. Indian coast guard helicopters - Chetak and ALH-Mk3 (in video) air dropped food& water supplies at flooded areas in Cholavaram #ChennaiFloods #ChennaiFloodRelief Ground Teams also involved in rescue 8 ICG ships & 2 aircraft ensured ZERO loss of life & property at sea during… pic.twitter.com/HppoYML9v1 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 6, 2023 × The IAF deployed four Chetak helicopters from the Air Force Station, Tambaram in Chennai, to air-drop dry food and water supplies provided by the Tamil Nadu Government authorities. The Air Force choppers have been carrying out sorties since Tuesday evening and this effort continues with more than 2.3 tonnes of supplies being dropped. The Indian Coast Guard also deployed its Advanced Light Helicopter Mark III and Chetak for similar efforts in the outskirts of Chennai. Coast Guard ground teams have also been carrying out evacuation via boats. Indian Air Force choppers continue air drop of essential supplies(dry food & water) for third day in #chennai & adjoining areas Already dropped 2.3tons of supplies using 4x Chetak helicopters from Flying Instructor's School AFS Tambaram #ChennaiFlood #ChennaiFloodRelief… pic.twitter.com/6geuwgnaQP — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 7, 2023 × The Indian Coast Guard also ensured that no lives or property were lost at sea, during the various stages of the evolution of cyclone Michuang and its impact along the coast of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Working with all stakeholders, the ICG ensured the safe return of nearly 3000 fishing boats. The ICG deployed eight ships and two aircraft for patrolling and maintaining vigil in the waters. While large parts of the city and arterial roads have returned to a considerable level of normalcy, there are areas in the city and in the outskirts that still remain waterlogged. Therefore, these areas have been without power supply for more than four days which has caused hardships to the residents there. Karpagam, 9-months pregnant, was rescued by @04NDRF during #ChennaiFloods, from Madipakkam on Tuesday &admitted to Kamakshi hospital Yesterday, she delivered a baby girl❤️😊 Team led by - Asst Comdt Sudhakar, Cmdr Rahul #chennai #ChennaiHelps #ChennaiFloods2023… pic.twitter.com/pqE73Flp7O — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 7, 2023 × Meanwhile, in a heartening incident, the NDRF shared that a nine-month pregnant woman whom they had rescued and hospitalised on Tuesday, delivered a baby girl on Thursday.

Chennai floods: Army and Navy rescue 4,000 while Air Force, Coast Guard help drop supplies

A rise in cases of Mycoplasma Pneumonia. Pneumonia has been registered in Indian Capital New Delhi. 7 out of 67 cases that were tested at AIIMS were found positive. But officials say that cases have no link to China's mysterious disease.

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