Many people associate a trip to Africa with spotting the big 5 on a Safari, but did you know that India also has incredible potential as a wildlife tourism destination? In the heart of India we unlock the country's astonishing potential as a wildlife tourism haven. Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems that shelter incredible species, from regal tigers to majestic elephants. Witness the harmony between nature and culture, and uncover the treasures that make India a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

India's potential as a Wildlife Tourism Destination

India and UAE are taking de-dollarisation seriously. India's central bank RBI is nudging local banks. To settle trade between the UAE and India using either the dirham or the Indian rupee.

De-dollarisation: RBI urges lenders to use Rupee or Dirham in trade with the UAE

Making significant progress towards India's lunar exploration ambitions, Chandrayaan-3 is advancing smoothly and is poised to touch down at the moon's southern pole on August 23rd.

Chandrayaan-3: ISRO aims for the moon, mars and beyond

Chandrayaan-3: India's space mission to usher in discoveries

India China and Russia Brazil and South Africa created the BRICS, one of the world's most important economic blocs. The summit is taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa. South Africa's President Ramaphosa honoured Xi Jinping with South Africa's highest honour 'Order of South Africa'.

BRICS Summit 2023 LIVE: Ramaphosa honours China's Xi Jinping with South Africa's highest honour

The 15th BRICS Summit has kickstarted. Leaders are reachingn Johannesburg. The 15th BRICS Summit is being hosted by South Africa. The eyes, however, will be on two major global powers India & China. As PM Modi and Xi Jinping are likely to meet face-to-face.

BRICS Summit 2023: How are relations between India & China as members of the bloc?

<p>Bijuli Prasad, one of the world's oldest elephants who was brought to India by a British farmer during the colonial era, died at the age of around 89 on Monday (August 21) in the northeastern state of Assam.</p>

<p>Caretakers in Sonitpuri district, where he spent his last days,&nbsp;said the pachyderm died of age-related issues.&nbsp;He breathed his last at the Behali tea estate of The Williamson Magor Group around 3.30 am IST.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bijuli Prasad was brought to work on a tea estate by a British farmer in the 1940s. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Elephant veterinarian Kushal Konwar Sarma, who cared for Bijuli Prasad in his later years,&nbsp;said: "Domestic elephants live up to 80 years, provided they are taken care of well."</p>

<p>&nbsp;<strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thieves-fix-muhurat-with-help-of-astrologer-to-loot-a-realtors-house-superstition-lands-them-in-jail-627888">Thieves fix 'muhurat' with help of astrologer to loot a realtor’s house, superstition lands them in jail</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"All the teeth of the elephant fell out due to age and it could not eat. I changed the diet and asked the caretakers to give him boiled food - mostly rice and soybean with a high protein value," AFP news agency quoted him as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Animal lovers and others who were associated with Bijuli Prasad gathered to mourn his death.</p>

<p>As quoted by media outlets, an official of the tea garden said: "Bijuli Prasad was a symbol of pride for The Williamson Magor Group."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was first brought to the Bargang tea estate as a calf, and later shifted here after the Bargang tea estate was sold off by the company," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmirs-tulip-garden-listed-as-asias-largest-by-world-book-of-records-627868">Kashmir’s tulip garden listed as Asia's largest by World Book of Records</a></strong></p>

<p>Sarma, who is a Padma Shri awardee and famous elephant surgeon,&nbsp;&nbsp;told PTI, "As far as my knowledge is concerned, Bijuli Prasad was the oldest recorded domestic elephant in India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the wild Asiatic elephants live up to 62-65 years, while the domestic ones survive till around 80 years with proper care.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official of the Behali tea estate said that the elephant was offered around 25 kg of food every day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Bijuli Prasad, one of the world's oldest elephants who was brought to India by a British farmer during the colonial era, died at the age of around 89 on Monday (August 21) in the northeastern state of Assam.

Bijuli Prasad, one of the world's oldest elephants who was brought to India by a British farmer during the colonial era, died at the age of around 89 on Monday (August 21) in the northeastern state of Assam. Caretakers in Sonitpuri district, where he spent his last days, said the pachyderm died of age-related issues. He breathed his last at the Behali tea estate of The Williamson Magor Group around 3.30 am IST. Bijuli Prasad was brought to work on a tea estate by a British farmer in the 1940s. Elephant veterinarian Kushal Konwar Sarma, who cared for Bijuli Prasad in his later years, said: "Domestic elephants live up to 80 years, provided they are taken care of well." Also read: Thieves fix 'muhurat' with help of astrologer to loot a realtor’s house, superstition lands them in jail "All the teeth of the elephant fell out due to age and it could not eat. I changed the diet and asked the caretakers to give him boiled food - mostly rice and soybean with a high protein value," AFP news agency quoted him as saying. Animal lovers and others who were associated with Bijuli Prasad gathered to mourn his death. As quoted by media outlets, an official of the tea garden said: "Bijuli Prasad was a symbol of pride for The Williamson Magor Group." "It was first brought to the Bargang tea estate as a calf, and later shifted here after the Bargang tea estate was sold off by the company," the official added. Also read: Kashmir’s tulip garden listed as Asia's largest by World Book of Records Sarma, who is a Padma Shri awardee and famous elephant surgeon, told PTI, "As far as my knowledge is concerned, Bijuli Prasad was the oldest recorded domestic elephant in India." He said that the wild Asiatic elephants live up to 62-65 years, while the domestic ones survive till around 80 years with proper care. An official of the Behali tea estate said that the elephant was offered around 25 kg of food every day. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bijuli Prasad: India's oldest domesticated Asiatic elephant, brought by the British, dies aged 89

Chinese Ambassador to South Africa has hinted that Indian PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold bilateral talks on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. Their potential meeting would be the first formal meeting since the border clashes in May 2020. It also comes in the backdrop Chinese efforts to expand BRICS grouping. A move that has been resisted by members like India and Brazil. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas | BRICS Summit: PM Modi To Meet Xi Jinping? India, China Border Breakthrough Possible?

Germany's Federal Minister for Digital and Transport Volker Wissin used India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to make a payment. The German Embassy in India hailed India's success in digital infrastructure. Why is the West reluctant to take lessons from India? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: German minister buys groceries with UPI | Is US afraid to learn from India?

India China and Russia Brazil and South Africa created the BRICS, one of the world's most important economic blocs. The Summit will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, and will be attended by heads of state and government seeking to strengthen their influence and encourage a shift in global geopolitics.

BRICS summit in Johannesburg: Meet between PM Modi and Xi on cards? | World News | WION

<p>In a bid to bolster bilateral ties, India's Deputy National Security Advisor, Vikram Misri, met with South Korea's Foreign Minister, Park Jin, emphasising closer relations and potential collaboration in Critical and Emerging Technologies. This sets the stage for the Fourth South Korea-India Strategic Dialogue, scheduled for later on Tuesday (August 22), further solidifying the robust partnership between the two nations.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-defence-intercepts-and-downs-two-attack-drones-near-moscow-627704">Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow</a></p>

<p>During the meeting, both Misri and Park expressed a strong commitment to strengthening their diplomatic and economic bonds. Foreign Minister Park conveyed South Korean President Yoon's eagerness to embark on his India visit in September, where he is scheduled to participate in the G20 Summit.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-threatens-thermonuclear-war-over-camp-david-summit-and-us-south-korea-drills-627702">North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills</a></p>

<p>Notably, both sides acknowledged the potential for collaboration in Critical and Emerging Technologies.</p>

<p>This recognition underscores their shared aspiration to harness cutting-edge innovations for mutual benefit. The Deputy NSA-level Strategic Dialogue, set to take place later on Tuesday (August 22), promises to deepen the strategic partnership even further.</p>

<p>South Korea's Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo will engage in discussions with his Indian counterpart, Vikram Misri.</p>

<p>The dialogue, established as a regular forum since a Korea-India summit in 2014, has played a pivotal role in fostering bilateral cooperation. The third session of such talks took place in India in 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes</strong></p>

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<p>The increased India and South Korea engagement comes in a year that saw South Korea announcing its Indo-Pacific strategy.</p>

<p>The strategy calls for enhancing a special strategic partnership with India and increasing strategic communication and cooperation through high-level exchanges in the areas of foreign affairs and defence.</p>

<p>The policy also calls for strengthening the foundation for enhanced economic cooperation by upgrading the ROK-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).</p>

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In a bid to bolster bilateral ties, India's Deputy National Security Advisor, Vikram Misri, met with South Korea's Foreign Minister, Park Jin, emphasising closer relations and potential collaboration in Critical and Emerging Technologies.

In a bid to bolster bilateral ties, India's Deputy National Security Advisor, Vikram Misri, met with South Korea's Foreign Minister, Park Jin, emphasising closer relations and potential collaboration in Critical and Emerging Technologies. This sets the stage for the Fourth South Korea-India Strategic Dialogue, scheduled for later on Tuesday (August 22), further solidifying the robust partnership between the two nations. Also Read | Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow During the meeting, both Misri and Park expressed a strong commitment to strengthening their diplomatic and economic bonds. Foreign Minister Park conveyed South Korean President Yoon's eagerness to embark on his India visit in September, where he is scheduled to participate in the G20 Summit. Also Read | North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills Notably, both sides acknowledged the potential for collaboration in Critical and Emerging Technologies. This recognition underscores their shared aspiration to harness cutting-edge innovations for mutual benefit. The Deputy NSA-level Strategic Dialogue, set to take place later on Tuesday (August 22), promises to deepen the strategic partnership even further. South Korea's Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo will engage in discussions with his Indian counterpart, Vikram Misri. The dialogue, established as a regular forum since a Korea-India summit in 2014, has played a pivotal role in fostering bilateral cooperation. The third session of such talks took place in India in 2021. Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes × The increased India and South Korea engagement comes in a year that saw South Korea announcing its Indo-Pacific strategy. The strategy calls for enhancing a special strategic partnership with India and increasing strategic communication and cooperation through high-level exchanges in the areas of foreign affairs and defence. The policy also calls for strengthening the foundation for enhanced economic cooperation by upgrading the ROK-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India's deputy NSA Misri, S. Korea FM prioritise critical technologies ahead of key talks

All eyes are on India's Chandrayaan-3. As the spacecraft inches closer to the moon. Since the launch, NASA & ESA have been supporting ISRO.

Chandrayaan-3: The role of NASA & ESA in aiding ISRO during the Moon landing

Inside India's Kasimedu fishing harbour, where women are the true heroes

India's Chandrayaan-3 on three spacecraft is inching closer to the surface of the Moon. It is nearly three days away from attempting a soft landing near the Lunar South Pole.

Why is Chandrayaan-3 landing on August 23

<p>Expanding India's avenues of cooperation with Oman and Mauritius, the Indian space agency ISRO is working with their counterparts from the respective nations to build and launch satellites for them and offering them the benefits of space applications and space-based services. The ISRO leadership, led by Chairman Dr S. Somanath, recently hosted delegations from Oman and Mauritius at the ISRO facilities in Bengaluru, also known as the aerospace city of India.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>With Said Hamood Said Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communication and Information Technology (MTCIT), the ISRO leadership held talks on building and launching of satellites for the Sultanate of Oman, ground station establishment, and the possibility of sounding rocket (experimental rocket) launches from Oman.</p>

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<p>A web-based Geographic Information Systems Portal, developed by ISRO, incorporating satellite data, geospatial layers, and value-added services pertaining exclusively to the Sultanate of Oman was launched by the visiting minister during this meeting. The salient features of the portal include the application potential in various domains - agriculture, fisheries, water conservation, urban planning, climate and ocean, disaster management, and governance.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws</strong></p>

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<p>With Mauritius' Minister for Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation (MITCI),&nbsp;Darsanand Balgobin, the ISRO team discussed the possibilities of an India-Mauritius joint satellite, a microsatellite designed for remote sensing from low earth orbit.</p>

<p>Plans for providing training to Mauritius officials, in three domains - building the satellite, operating the satellite, and utilising the received data from this satellite for various applications, were also part of the talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to this, the meeting helped in enhancing the scope of India-Mauritius space cooperation through sharing of Indian remote sensing satellite data pertaining to Mauritius territory, developing an ‘India-Mauritius space portal’ with satellite data, geospatial layers, and value-added services pertaining to Mauritius, discussion for space industry collaboration, ISRO said.&nbsp;</p>

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Expanding India's avenues of cooperation with Oman and Mauritius, the Indian space agency ISRO is working with their counterparts from the respective nations to build and launch satellites for them and offering them the benefits of space applications and space-based services.

Expanding India's avenues of cooperation with Oman and Mauritius, the Indian space agency ISRO is working with their counterparts from the respective nations to build and launch satellites for them and offering them the benefits of space applications and space-based services. The ISRO leadership, led by Chairman Dr S. Somanath, recently hosted delegations from Oman and Mauritius at the ISRO facilities in Bengaluru, also known as the aerospace city of India. Also Read | ECOWAS rejects Niger coup leader's pledge to restore civilian rule in three years With Said Hamood Said Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communication and Information Technology (MTCIT), the ISRO leadership held talks on building and launching of satellites for the Sultanate of Oman, ground station establishment, and the possibility of sounding rocket (experimental rocket) launches from Oman. Also Read | South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion ahead of summit A web-based Geographic Information Systems Portal, developed by ISRO, incorporating satellite data, geospatial layers, and value-added services pertaining exclusively to the Sultanate of Oman was launched by the visiting minister during this meeting. The salient features of the portal include the application potential in various domains - agriculture, fisheries, water conservation, urban planning, climate and ocean, disaster management, and governance. Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws × With Mauritius' Minister for Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation (MITCI), Darsanand Balgobin, the ISRO team discussed the possibilities of an India-Mauritius joint satellite, a microsatellite designed for remote sensing from low earth orbit. Plans for providing training to Mauritius officials, in three domains - building the satellite, operating the satellite, and utilising the received data from this satellite for various applications, were also part of the talks. In addition to this, the meeting helped in enhancing the scope of India-Mauritius space cooperation through sharing of Indian remote sensing satellite data pertaining to Mauritius territory, developing an ‘India-Mauritius space portal’ with satellite data, geospatial layers, and value-added services pertaining to Mauritius, discussion for space industry collaboration, ISRO said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: ISRO could offer services to Oman and Mauritius, help them build and launch satellites

Germany's Embassy in New Delhi is lauding India's digital infrastructure. It's being lauded as one of the country's success stories. This praise comes after Germany's federal Minister for digital, transport Volker Wissing took up UPI to make a transaction and was left fascinated. Talking to X formerly known as Twitter, the German Embassy said that it lauded how UPI enables everyone to make transactions in seconds.

India's UPI impresses Germany's digital and transport minister

German minister Volker Wissing was impressed after using UPI at market in India

<p>Consumers can avail Onions at a subsidised rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets of the National Cooperative Consumers` Federation of India Limited (NCCF) from August 21, said a government release on Sunday. According to the release, retail sales of Onion will be suitably enhanced in the coming days by involving other agencies and e-commerce platforms.</p>

<p>"Apart from releasing in major markets, onions from the buffer are also being made available to retail consumers at a subsidised rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets and mobile vans of NCCF from tomorrow ie Monday 21st August 2023," the release stated.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-mission-isro-shares-images-of-lunar-far-side-region-taken-by-lhdac-627403">Chandrayaan-3 Mission: ISRO shares images of Lunar far side region taken by LHDAC</a></p>

<p>In an unprecedented move, the Government on August 20 raised the quantum of onion buffer to 5.00 lakh metric tonnes (0.5 million metric tonnes) this year, after achieving the initial procurement target of 3.00 lakh metric tonnes&nbsp;(0.3 million metric tonnes).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this regard, the Department of Consumer Affairs has directed the NCCF and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) to procure 1.00 lakh metric tonnes (0.1 million metric tonnes) each to achieve the additional procurement target alongside calibrated disposal of the procured stocks in major consumption centres, the release said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-7-dead-27-injured-after-bus-carrying-pilgrims-falls-into-gorge-in-uttarakhand-627404">India: At least 7 dead, 27 injured after bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Uttarakhand</a></p>

<p>As per the release, disposal of onions from the buffer has commenced, targeting major markets in States and UTs where retail prices are above the all-India average and/or are significantly higher than the previous month.</p>

<p>"As of date, about 1,400 MT of onions from the buffer has been dispatched to the targeted markets and are being continuously released to augment the availability," it further stated.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | WhatsApp adds a new feature to its messaging app</strong></p>

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<p>The multipronged measures taken by the Government in the case of onion including procurement for the buffer, targeted release of stocks, and imposition of export duty will benefit the farmers and consumers by assuring remunerative prices to the onion farmers while ensuring continuous availability to the consumers at affordable prices, the release added.&nbsp;</p>

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Consumers can avail Onions at a subsidised rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets of the National Cooperative Consumers` Federation of India Limited (NCCF) from August 21, said a government release on Sunday.

Consumers can avail Onions at a subsidised rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets of the National Cooperative Consumers` Federation of India Limited (NCCF) from August 21, said a government release on Sunday. According to the release, retail sales of Onion will be suitably enhanced in the coming days by involving other agencies and e-commerce platforms. "Apart from releasing in major markets, onions from the buffer are also being made available to retail consumers at a subsidised rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets and mobile vans of NCCF from tomorrow ie Monday 21st August 2023," the release stated. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 Mission: ISRO shares images of Lunar far side region taken by LHDAC In an unprecedented move, the Government on August 20 raised the quantum of onion buffer to 5.00 lakh metric tonnes (0.5 million metric tonnes) this year, after achieving the initial procurement target of 3.00 lakh metric tonnes (0.3 million metric tonnes). In this regard, the Department of Consumer Affairs has directed the NCCF and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) to procure 1.00 lakh metric tonnes (0.1 million metric tonnes) each to achieve the additional procurement target alongside calibrated disposal of the procured stocks in major consumption centres, the release said. Also Read | India: At least 7 dead, 27 injured after bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Uttarakhand As per the release, disposal of onions from the buffer has commenced, targeting major markets in States and UTs where retail prices are above the all-India average and/or are significantly higher than the previous month. "As of date, about 1,400 MT of onions from the buffer has been dispatched to the targeted markets and are being continuously released to augment the availability," it further stated. Watch | WhatsApp adds a new feature to its messaging app × The multipronged measures taken by the Government in the case of onion including procurement for the buffer, targeted release of stocks, and imposition of export duty will benefit the farmers and consumers by assuring remunerative prices to the onion farmers while ensuring continuous availability to the consumers at affordable prices, the release added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: NCCF to sell onions at Rs 25 per kg after Centre raises onion buffer

<p>In the run-up to the 15th BRICS summit hosted by South Africa from August 22nd to 24th, Professor Anil Sooklal, the country's BRICS Sherpa, has highlighted India's "critical role".</p>

<p>Speaking to WION exclusively, he said, "India is a critical country in the success of the summit. And I think the fact that we have Prime Minister Modi coming to the summit signals, just how seriously India takes its membership of BRICS."</p>

<p>South Africa is the host of the year's summit which is the first in-person gathering of BRICS leaders since 2019, with the Sherpa describing the meeting as "historic". No in-person summits occurred between 2020 and 2022 due to the Covid pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-expansion-bilateral-ties-at-forefront-of-pm-modi-raisis-talks-626888">BRICS expansion, bilateral ties at forefront of PM Modi’s talks with Iran President Raisi</a></strong></p>

<p>He explained that the "world has changed dramatically in these last few years", adding that "one of the significant geopolitical shifts is the rise of India as the 5th largest global economy. And I think that's significant, not just for India, I think it's significant for BRICS as well. "</p>

<p>Sooklal's insights extended to India's "pioneering role" within BRICS, particularly in deepening the use of national currencies.</p>

<p>He emphasised that India has been at the forefront of this initiative, enabling financial choices and greater independence for member nations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-idea-of-common-currency-potential-expansion-creates-jitters-in-the-west-625861">BRICS' idea of 'common currency', potential expansion creates jitters in the West</a></strong></p>

<p>He said, "BRICS is focusing heavily on in terms of giving us financial choices and also greater financial independence, not only in terms of our trade interactions but also in terms of setting up our own payment settlement system, which we also want to be discussing and India again, has been one of the leaders in this in the Global South."</p>

<p>"More and more countries, especially BRICS countries like Russia, China and India have been focusing on using national currencies."</p>

<h2><strong>Focus on expansion of BRICS</strong></h2>

<p>Among the key issues to be addressed at the summit is an expansion of the grouping, a topic that has reverberated globally.</p>

<p>Sooklal underscored the significance, stating, "Having all the BRICS leaders including Prime Minister Modi, to deliberate on this and to see how we deal with the question of expansion, I think that's also really significant."</p>

<p>South Africa has received formal expressions of interest from over 20 countries seeking BRICS membership which are Algeria, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Honduras, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Nigeria, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela and Vietnam.</p>

<p>The evolving geopolitical landscape has renewed interest in BRICS as nations in the Global South explore alternatives in a multipolar world.</p>

<h2><strong>BRICS 2023 summit: Why PM&nbsp;Modi's in-person presence holds significance?</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi's presence in South Africa at this juncture holds dual significance. Not only does it align with the 30th anniversary of formal diplomatic ties between the two nations, but it also commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa.</p>

<p>Sooklal noted the importance, stating, "On a number of fronts, it's an important occasion for India. Not just within BRICS, but also the bilateral relationship between our two countries"</p>

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In the run-up to the 15th BRICS summit hosted by South Africa from August 22nd to 24th, Professor Anil Sooklal, the country's BRICS Sherpa, has highlighted India's "critical role".

In the run-up to the 15th BRICS summit hosted by South Africa from August 22nd to 24th, Professor Anil Sooklal, the country's BRICS Sherpa, has highlighted India's "critical role". Speaking to WION exclusively, he said, "India is a critical country in the success of the summit. And I think the fact that we have Prime Minister Modi coming to the summit signals, just how seriously India takes its membership of BRICS." South Africa is the host of the year's summit which is the first in-person gathering of BRICS leaders since 2019, with the Sherpa describing the meeting as "historic". No in-person summits occurred between 2020 and 2022 due to the Covid pandemic. Also read | BRICS expansion, bilateral ties at forefront of PM Modi’s talks with Iran President Raisi He explained that the "world has changed dramatically in these last few years", adding that "one of the significant geopolitical shifts is the rise of India as the 5th largest global economy. And I think that's significant, not just for India, I think it's significant for BRICS as well. " Sooklal's insights extended to India's "pioneering role" within BRICS, particularly in deepening the use of national currencies. He emphasised that India has been at the forefront of this initiative, enabling financial choices and greater independence for member nations. Also read | BRICS' idea of 'common currency', potential expansion creates jitters in the West He said, "BRICS is focusing heavily on in terms of giving us financial choices and also greater financial independence, not only in terms of our trade interactions but also in terms of setting up our own payment settlement system, which we also want to be discussing and India again, has been one of the leaders in this in the Global South." "More and more countries, especially BRICS countries like Russia, China and India have been focusing on using national currencies." Focus on expansion of BRICS Among the key issues to be addressed at the summit is an expansion of the grouping, a topic that has reverberated globally. Sooklal underscored the significance, stating, "Having all the BRICS leaders including Prime Minister Modi, to deliberate on this and to see how we deal with the question of expansion, I think that's also really significant." South Africa has received formal expressions of interest from over 20 countries seeking BRICS membership which are Algeria, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Honduras, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Nigeria, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela and Vietnam. The evolving geopolitical landscape has renewed interest in BRICS as nations in the Global South explore alternatives in a multipolar world. BRICS 2023 summit: Why PM Modi's in-person presence holds significance? Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence in South Africa at this juncture holds dual significance. Not only does it align with the 30th anniversary of formal diplomatic ties between the two nations, but it also commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's return to India from South Africa. Sooklal noted the importance, stating, "On a number of fronts, it's an important occasion for India. Not just within BRICS, but also the bilateral relationship between our two countries" WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's 'critical role' stressed by South Africa's BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal ahead of the summit

<p>In what became yet another example of the&nbsp;inadequate maintenance of elevators in India's&nbsp;National Capital Region (NCR) near New Delhi, an eight-year-old boy in Faridabad was stuck in a lift for approximately two hours on August 20. But what made the incident remarkable is the way the young boy reacted to the ordeal.</p>

<p>The boy reportedly recollected his father's advice not to panic during crises.</p>

<p>Instead of becoming&nbsp;anxious, the boy calmly waited for the help, and passed the time by doing&nbsp;his homework.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/postwoman-dies-after-getting-stuck-in-lift-for-three-days-621417">Postwoman dies after getting stuck in lift for three days</a></strong></p>

<p>Following the ordeal, the family has taken action by contacting the authorities to voice their concerns about the subpar lift maintenance in the society.</p>

<p>This incident originated from Omaxe Heights society in Faridabad and quickly gained traction on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Wheelchair-bound man from Russia builds a solar-powered lift</strong></p>

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<p>The boy's father, Pawan Chandila, who works in Gurugram, shared that their family resides on the apartment building's fourth floor.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident unfolded on a Sunday evening when Garvit, 8, was heading downstairs alone for his tuition class around 5 pm.</p>

<p>Usually accompanied by his mother, this time he was unaccompanied due to her being unwell.</p>

<p>The lift got stuck on the second floor.</p>

<p>"We had previously instructed Garvit about safety measures in such situations. He made attempts to seek assistance by using the emergency button and knocking on the door. Unfortunately, his pleas for help went unanswered. He decided to keep calm and focused by immersing himself in his homework as panic began to set in," Pawan Chandila was quoted as saying by The Tribune.</p>

<p>An hour later, the tuition teacher contacted the Chandila family, concerned that Garvit hadn't reached the class.</p>

<p>The parents initiated a search and discovered through the security guard that the elevator had been inoperative.</p>

<p>Consequently, the technical team was called, and the situation was eventually resolved around 7 PM, with Garvit safely rescued from the lift.</p>

<p>The family is now demanding accountability for negligence, citing the elevator's regular malfunctions.</p>

<p>"We need to hold those responsible for alleged negligence accountable, as the lift had gone unrepaired for an extended period," Chandila added.</p>

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In what became yet another example of the inadequate maintenance of elevators in India's National Capital Region (NCR) near New Delhi, an eight-year-old boy in Faridabad was stuck in a lift for approximately two hours on August 20.

In what became yet another example of the inadequate maintenance of elevators in India's National Capital Region (NCR) near New Delhi, an eight-year-old boy in Faridabad was stuck in a lift for approximately two hours on August 20. But what made the incident remarkable is the way the young boy reacted to the ordeal. The boy reportedly recollected his father's advice not to panic during crises. Instead of becoming anxious, the boy calmly waited for the help, and passed the time by doing his homework. Also read | Postwoman dies after getting stuck in lift for three days Following the ordeal, the family has taken action by contacting the authorities to voice their concerns about the subpar lift maintenance in the society. This incident originated from Omaxe Heights society in Faridabad and quickly gained traction on social media. Also watch | Wheelchair-bound man from Russia builds a solar-powered lift × The boy's father, Pawan Chandila, who works in Gurugram, shared that their family resides on the apartment building's fourth floor. What happened? The incident unfolded on a Sunday evening when Garvit, 8, was heading downstairs alone for his tuition class around 5 pm. Usually accompanied by his mother, this time he was unaccompanied due to her being unwell. The lift got stuck on the second floor. "We had previously instructed Garvit about safety measures in such situations. He made attempts to seek assistance by using the emergency button and knocking on the door. Unfortunately, his pleas for help went unanswered. He decided to keep calm and focused by immersing himself in his homework as panic began to set in," Pawan Chandila was quoted as saying by The Tribune. An hour later, the tuition teacher contacted the Chandila family, concerned that Garvit hadn't reached the class. The parents initiated a search and discovered through the security guard that the elevator had been inoperative. Consequently, the technical team was called, and the situation was eventually resolved around 7 PM, with Garvit safely rescued from the lift. The family is now demanding accountability for negligence, citing the elevator's regular malfunctions. "We need to hold those responsible for alleged negligence accountable, as the lift had gone unrepaired for an extended period," Chandila added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian boy gets stuck in elevator, does homework to stay calm during two-hour ordeal

Inflation is soaring in India. Measures are being taken to control high prices. The Indian government is reportedly considering a plan to reduce taxes applicable on petrol.

Will the Indian government reduce taxes on oil to contain inflation?

All eyes this week are on Johannesburg. As BRICS Summit is finally kicking off. Leaders are all set to visit the host nation. But what this year's BRICS Summit holds for India?

What's at stake for India at the BRICS Summit in South Africa?

<p><strong>IND vs IRE 2nd T20I LIVE:</strong> After knocking Ireland in the first match of the T20I series, Team India is all prepared to mark another victory in the upcoming second match. The team led by Jasprit Bumrah will play the second T20I of the three-match series against the Irish team on 20 August 2023, at The Village, Dublin at 7:30 pm IST. The 29-year-old Indian captain&nbsp;won the "Player of the Match" award. The men in blue won the first match by two runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ireland will try its best to bounce back. Irish player Barry McCarthy won Kheloyar Best Striker of the Match for his incredible innings 51*(33).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Till now, both the teams have played 5 matches and all have been won by India.</p>

<p>Here's how you can watch I<strong>ND vs IRE 2nd T20 Live Streaming Details:</strong></p>

<p><strong>How to watch IND vs IRE LIVE in India?</strong></p>

<p>JioCinema will telecast the three-match India vs Ireland Test series on their app and website that began on Friday (August 19). India's Viacom-18 sports broadcaster Sports-18 will also broadcast the IND vs IRE matches in SD and HD formats on various DTH platforms and on cable TV.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's a full list of the television broadcasters.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ireland: TNT Sports</p>

<p>India: Sports 18, DD Sports; JioCinema</p>

<p>United Kingdom: TNT Sports 1</p>

<p>USA: Willow HD</p>

<p>Canada: ATN</p>

<p>Etisalat: MENA</p>

<h2><strong>India vs Ireland T20I series 2023: Schedule</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p><strong>Ireland vs India, 1st T20:</strong> August 18, 2023, Friday, at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p><strong>Ireland vs India, 2nd T20:</strong> August 20, 2023, Sunday at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p><strong>Ireland vs India, 3rd T20:</strong> August 23, 2023, Wednesday at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs IRE 2nd T20I: Playing XI</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>India Squad:</strong></h3>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vc), Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Shahbaz Ahmed, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and Ravi Bishnoi.</p>

<h3><strong>Ireland Squad:</strong></h3>

<p>Ross Adair, Andy Balbirnie, Harry Tector, Paul Stirling (captain), Fionn Hand, Theo Van Woerkom, Barry Mccarthy, Mark Adair, Gareth Delany, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Josh Little, George Dockrell, Ben White, and Craig Young.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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IND vs IRE 2nd T20I LIVE: After knocking Ireland in the first match of the T20I series, Team India is all prepared to mark another victory in the upcoming second match.

IND vs IRE 2nd T20I LIVE: After knocking Ireland in the first match of the T20I series, Team India is all prepared to mark another victory in the upcoming second match. The team led by Jasprit Bumrah will play the second T20I of the three-match series against the Irish team on 20 August 2023, at The Village, Dublin at 7:30 pm IST. The 29-year-old Indian captain won the "Player of the Match" award. The men in blue won the first match by two runs. Meanwhile, Ireland will try its best to bounce back. Irish player Barry McCarthy won Kheloyar Best Striker of the Match for his incredible innings 51*(33). Till now, both the teams have played 5 matches and all have been won by India. Here's how you can watch IND vs IRE 2nd T20 Live Streaming Details: How to watch IND vs IRE LIVE in India? JioCinema will telecast the three-match India vs Ireland Test series on their app and website that began on Friday (August 19). India's Viacom-18 sports broadcaster Sports-18 will also broadcast the IND vs IRE matches in SD and HD formats on various DTH platforms and on cable TV. Here's a full list of the television broadcasters. Ireland: TNT Sports India: Sports 18, DD Sports; JioCinema United Kingdom: TNT Sports 1 USA: Willow HD Canada: ATN Etisalat: MENA India vs Ireland T20I series 2023: Schedule Ireland vs India, 1st T20: August 18, 2023, Friday, at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST Ireland vs India, 2nd T20: August 20, 2023, Sunday at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST Ireland vs India, 3rd T20: August 23, 2023, Wednesday at The Village, Dublin, starts from 7:30 PM IST IND vs IRE 2nd T20I: Playing XI India Squad: Jasprit Bumrah (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vc), Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Shahbaz Ahmed, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and Ravi Bishnoi. Ireland Squad: Ross Adair, Andy Balbirnie, Harry Tector, Paul Stirling (captain), Fionn Hand, Theo Van Woerkom, Barry Mccarthy, Mark Adair, Gareth Delany, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Josh Little, George Dockrell, Ben White, and Craig Young. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs IRE 2nd T20I LIVE for free: How to watch India vs Ireland LIVE streaming on mobile & TV in your country

India: Chandrayaan-3 three days away from Moon landing near unexplored South pole | LIVE discussion

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