<p>It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country.</p>

<p>In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work.</p>

<p>We have come a long way from there, haven't we?</p>

<p>Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be.</p>

<p>Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level.</p>

<p>But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest.</p>

<p>Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army.</p>

<p>The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016.</p>

<p>I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries.</p>

<p>Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach&nbsp;a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day.</p>

<p>Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-1994-visit-to-unga-2021-heres-a-look-at-modis-us-visits-415717">From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits</a></strong><br />
<br />
It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I.</p>

<p>When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government."</p>

<p>The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then.</p>

<p>Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country.</p>

<p>Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what.</p>

<p>Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy.</p>

<p>On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India.</p>

<p>Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal.<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot.

It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country. In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work. We have come a long way from there, haven't we? Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be. Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level. But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest. Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army. The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016. I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries. Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day. Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie. ALSO READ | From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I. When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government." The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then. Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country. Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what. Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy. On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India. Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Modi's US visit a rebound from historic lows, but dissident notes of Track III diplomacy abound

The long waited rains are fondly here in a bit of a relief for the farmers across India's Southern State of Kerala as Monsoon has reached its coast after more than a week's delay. According to the state-run Indian Meteorological Department, the formation of a serious cyclonic storm Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea was the reason behind the delay in the monsoons forming or the Indian peninsula.

India: Monsoon arrives after a week-long delay

<p>India's crime-fighting agency, the Enforcement Directorate, has issued a show-cause notice to Xiaomi's India unit, its officials, and three banks as part of an investigation that uncovered illegal remittances made by the Chinese smartphone maker to foreign entities.</p>

<p>The notice was issued under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and relates to remittances amounting to 55.51 billion Indian rupees ($673.2 million).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iowa-minor-tries-to-rent-hitman-to-kill-child-gets-caught-on-parody-site-602549">Iowa: Minor tries to rent hitman to kill child, gets caught on parody site</a></p>

<p>The Enforcement Directorate claims that Xiaomi began unlawfully moving money abroad in 2015, using misleading information and disguising the funds as royalty payments. Last year, the agency froze Xiaomi's assets in India, alleging that the company had made illegal remittances by falsely presenting them as royalty payments to foreign entities.</p>

<h2><strong>Xiaomi refutes allegations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Xiaomi is accused of transferring 55.51 billion rupees in foreign currency to three businesses, including a Xiaomi group entity, under the guise of royalty payments. However, Xiaomi has denied these allegations, asserting that its royalty payments were legitimate and expressing its commitment to protecting its reputation and interests.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deserted-dystopia-chinese-city-evacuated-after-cracks-appear-near-high-rises-602506">Deserted dystopia: Chinese city evacuated after cracks appear near high-rises</a></p>

<p>The agency asserts that Xiaomi's actions contravene Section 4 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, which imposes restrictions on the acquisition, ownership, possession, or transfer of foreign exchange, foreign securities, or immovable property located outside India.</p>

<p>An Indian court in the month of April rejected the Chinese smartphone maker's plea against the seizure and this represented a significant setback for the company, which is one of India's rapidly growing smartphone brands.</p>

<p>Xiaomi has made substantial investments in India in recent years, including the establishment of manufacturing facilities and the launch of affordable smartphones targeting price-sensitive consumers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sunak-biden-meet-atlantic-declaration-seen-as-a-counter-to-russia-and-china-602524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>India's heightened scrutiny of Chinese enterprises&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Foreign companies operating in India, particularly those from China, have faced heightened scrutiny and regulatory challenges. Indian authorities have been increasingly vigilant in enforcing financial regulations and investigating alleged violations, such as tax evasion, money laundering, and breaches of foreign exchange rules.</p>

<p>Tensions between India and China, stemming from a border conflict, have further complicated the business operations of Chinese enterprises in India since 2020.</p>

<p>Over 300 Chinese apps, including popular ones like TikTok, have been banned in India due to security concerns. Chinese companies like WeChat and Alibaba have also faced scrutiny, restrictions, and compliance issues related to data privacy, national security, and local laws in recent years.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India's crime-fighting agency, the Enforcement Directorate, has issued a show-cause notice to Xiaomi's India unit, its officials, and three banks as part of an investigation that uncovered illegal remittances made by the Chinese smartphone maker to foreign entities.

India's crime-fighting agency, the Enforcement Directorate, has issued a show-cause notice to Xiaomi's India unit, its officials, and three banks as part of an investigation that uncovered illegal remittances made by the Chinese smartphone maker to foreign entities. The notice was issued under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and relates to remittances amounting to 55.51 billion Indian rupees ($673.2 million). Also Read | Iowa: Minor tries to rent hitman to kill child, gets caught on parody site The Enforcement Directorate claims that Xiaomi began unlawfully moving money abroad in 2015, using misleading information and disguising the funds as royalty payments. Last year, the agency froze Xiaomi's assets in India, alleging that the company had made illegal remittances by falsely presenting them as royalty payments to foreign entities. Xiaomi refutes allegations Xiaomi is accused of transferring 55.51 billion rupees in foreign currency to three businesses, including a Xiaomi group entity, under the guise of royalty payments. However, Xiaomi has denied these allegations, asserting that its royalty payments were legitimate and expressing its commitment to protecting its reputation and interests. Also Read | Deserted dystopia: Chinese city evacuated after cracks appear near high-rises The agency asserts that Xiaomi's actions contravene Section 4 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, which imposes restrictions on the acquisition, ownership, possession, or transfer of foreign exchange, foreign securities, or immovable property located outside India. An Indian court in the month of April rejected the Chinese smartphone maker's plea against the seizure and this represented a significant setback for the company, which is one of India's rapidly growing smartphone brands. Xiaomi has made substantial investments in India in recent years, including the establishment of manufacturing facilities and the launch of affordable smartphones targeting price-sensitive consumers. Watch | Sunak-Biden Meet: 'Atlantic declaration' seen as a counter to Russia and China × India's heightened scrutiny of Chinese enterprises Foreign companies operating in India, particularly those from China, have faced heightened scrutiny and regulatory challenges. Indian authorities have been increasingly vigilant in enforcing financial regulations and investigating alleged violations, such as tax evasion, money laundering, and breaches of foreign exchange rules. Tensions between India and China, stemming from a border conflict, have further complicated the business operations of Chinese enterprises in India since 2020. Over 300 Chinese apps, including popular ones like TikTok, have been banned in India due to security concerns. Chinese companies like WeChat and Alibaba have also faced scrutiny, restrictions, and compliance issues related to data privacy, national security, and local laws in recent years. 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 ED issues show-cause notice to Xiaomi over illegal remittances

The Indian PM Modi is soon going to step foot in the U.S. for the official state visit. A meeting will be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House. PM Modi is scheduled to visit the US on June 22.

PM Modi in US: What are the issues PM Modi & Joe Biden will discuss when they meet?

<p>An Indian online food delivery service named Zomato withdrew its advertisement on recycling trash, following complaints over how it depicted a Dalit&nbsp;character.&nbsp;Dalits, formerly&nbsp;referred to as "untouchables",&nbsp;are a historically underprivileged population in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The character&nbsp;appeared as recycled rubbish in a Zomato commercial for World Environment Day.</p>

<p>The company took down the video, saying it had "unintentionally" hurt some&nbsp;communities.&nbsp;The ad featured actor Aditya Lakhia, who famously played a character called Kachra in the 2001 Bollywood film <em>Lagaan</em>, reported the BBC.</p>

<p>The movie, which features Aamir Khan, is about peasants who challenge their British overlords to a game of cricket in order to avoid paying a harsh tax. The movie received an Oscar nomination, and Time magazine named it one of the top 25 sports films ever made.</p>

<p>The character of Kachra, who in Hindi means "garbage",&nbsp;is shown in the movie as being crippled and rejected by his fellow villagers until he is chosen to play for the squad. He ultimately plays a crucial part in helping his side pull off an unexpected victory.</p>

<p>The figure in Zomato's advertisement played with goods manufactured from recycled garbage, including a lamp, table, paper, and watering can, in an effort to highlight the company's voluntary waste recycling.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Byju's to cut jobs, sales, and marketing teams to face the heat</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/byjus-to-cut-jobs-sales-and-marketing-teams-to-face-the-heat-602633/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Zomato was condemned for airing a "repulsive" ad by Bollywood director Neeraj Ghaywan.</p>

<p>In a tweet, he criticised "Kachra from Lagaan," calling it "one of the most dehumanised voiceless depictions of Dalits ever in cinema".</p>

<p>Development expert Radha Khan stated in The Indian Express that "using a character who is a Dalit and showing him to be made from actual waste is extremely problematic and insensitive".</p>

<p>"To depict a person as being recycled trash 'rescued'&nbsp;from the dung heap to be used as utility 'objects'&nbsp;dehumanises him. It shows how corporate boardrooms and ad agencies have no diversity in their staff and are clearly completely dominated by upper castes who have little or no understanding of how to perceive and depict those who are from marginalised and socially-ostracised groups." Khan said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-murder-man-accused-of-brutally-killing-partner-claims-to-be-hiv-police-reveals-the-two-were-married-602619">Mumbai Murder: Man accused of brutally killing partner claims to be HIV+, police reveals the two were married</a></p>

<h2><strong>Calls to boycott Zomato</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, social media users called for a&nbsp;boycott of the company.&nbsp;Zomato tried a play on the word "kachra",&nbsp;according to communications strategist Karthik Srinivasan, but failed to consider how it would appear to have the figure execute "seemingly dehumanising and menial tasks", reported the BBC.</p>

<p>The advertisement has been removed from all of Zomato's social media platforms.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


An Indian online food delivery service named Zomato withdrew its advertisement on recycling trash, following complaints over how it depicted a Dalit character. Dalits, formerly referred to as "untouchables", are a historically underprivileged population in the country.

An Indian online food delivery service named Zomato withdrew its advertisement on recycling trash, following complaints over how it depicted a Dalit character. Dalits, formerly referred to as "untouchables", are a historically underprivileged population in the country. The character appeared as recycled rubbish in a Zomato commercial for World Environment Day. The company took down the video, saying it had "unintentionally" hurt some communities. The ad featured actor Aditya Lakhia, who famously played a character called Kachra in the 2001 Bollywood film Lagaan, reported the BBC. The movie, which features Aamir Khan, is about peasants who challenge their British overlords to a game of cricket in order to avoid paying a harsh tax. The movie received an Oscar nomination, and Time magazine named it one of the top 25 sports films ever made. The character of Kachra, who in Hindi means "garbage", is shown in the movie as being crippled and rejected by his fellow villagers until he is chosen to play for the squad. He ultimately plays a crucial part in helping his side pull off an unexpected victory. The figure in Zomato's advertisement played with goods manufactured from recycled garbage, including a lamp, table, paper, and watering can, in an effort to highlight the company's voluntary waste recycling. Also watch | Byju's to cut jobs, sales, and marketing teams to face the heat Zomato was condemned for airing a "repulsive" ad by Bollywood director Neeraj Ghaywan. In a tweet, he criticised "Kachra from Lagaan," calling it "one of the most dehumanised voiceless depictions of Dalits ever in cinema". Development expert Radha Khan stated in The Indian Express that "using a character who is a Dalit and showing him to be made from actual waste is extremely problematic and insensitive". "To depict a person as being recycled trash 'rescued' from the dung heap to be used as utility 'objects' dehumanises him. It shows how corporate boardrooms and ad agencies have no diversity in their staff and are clearly completely dominated by upper castes who have little or no understanding of how to perceive and depict those who are from marginalised and socially-ostracised groups." Khan said. Also read | Mumbai Murder: Man accused of brutally killing partner claims to be HIV+, police reveals the two were married Calls to boycott Zomato On Friday, social media users called for a boycott of the company. Zomato tried a play on the word "kachra", according to communications strategist Karthik Srinivasan, but failed to consider how it would appear to have the figure execute "seemingly dehumanising and menial tasks", reported the BBC. The advertisement has been removed from all of Zomato's social media platforms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Zomato takes down 'Kachra' campaign video after major backlash

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and thanked him for his country's "excellent support" during evacuation of Indians from Sudan in April, while also conveying best wishes for the upcoming Haj pilgrimage.

Indian PM speaks with Saudi Prince, thanks him for support during evacuation of Indians from Sudan

<p>India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(23)00119-5/fulltext">recent report&nbsp;published in the Lancet</a>.&nbsp;This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.4 per cent&nbsp;of the nation's population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare jointly financed the country's largest epidemiological research on diabetes and chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). All 28 states, two union territories, and Delhi, the nation's capital, are included in the research. Samples of a&nbsp;total of 1,13,043 people were&nbsp;used in the study. The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, a highly regarded medical publication, has published the study's findings.</p>

<p>Goa has the most significant prevalence of diabetes, at 26.4 per cent, while Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state, has the lowest, at 4.8 per cent. The study found that, with the exception of prediabetes, urban areas had a higher incidence of all metabolic NCDs than rural ones. According to the nationwide survey, 315 million Americans have excessive blood pressure, 254 million are obese generally, and 351 million are obese in their midsections. In addition, 213 million individuals had hypercholesterolemia or elevated cholesterol.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/taurine-a-common-energy-drink-ingredient-may-slow-down-ageing-process-602580">Taurine, a common energy drink ingredient, may slow down ageing process</a></p>

<p>“It is quite evident from the study results that India has a substantial population at risk of cardiovascular disease and other long-term organ complications due to metabolic NCDs," &nbsp;Dr RS&nbsp;Dhaliwal, Scientist ‘G’ &amp; Head, Non-communicable Disease Division, Indian Council of Medical Research told the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The findings of this study are very significant as they provide robust estimates of NCDs for the nation. Compared to earlier estimates, India currently has a substantially greater prevalence of metabolic NCDs. In India, the diabetes epidemic is in transition, with some states having already reached their peak rates while others are just getting started. The study also demonstrates that despite the fact that all metabolic NCDs are more common in urban regions, rural areas have significantly greater prevalence rates than that reported previously," Dr R.M.Anjana, Managing Director, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre (DMDSC) and President, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF told the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Symptoms of diabetes</strong></h2>

<p>The severity of diabetes symptoms is determined by blood sugar levels. Some people may not exhibit symptoms, particularly if they have prediabetes, gestational diabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may appear suddenly and are more severe, according to the Mayo Clinic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can both cause the following symptoms:</p>

<p>- Noticing more thirst than usual<br />
- Frequent urination.<br />
- Weight loss without any effort.<br />
- Ketones are present in the urine. When there is insufficient insulin available, muscle and fat are broken - Down, producing ketones as a consequence.<br />
- Becoming worn out and fragile.<br />
- Irritated or experiencing other mood swings.<br />
- Vision that is hazy.<br />
- Having wounds that take a long time to heal.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a recent report published in the Lancet. This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.

India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a recent report published in the Lancet. This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.4 per cent of the nation's population. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare jointly financed the country's largest epidemiological research on diabetes and chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). All 28 states, two union territories, and Delhi, the nation's capital, are included in the research. Samples of a total of 1,13,043 people were used in the study. The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, a highly regarded medical publication, has published the study's findings. Goa has the most significant prevalence of diabetes, at 26.4 per cent, while Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state, has the lowest, at 4.8 per cent. The study found that, with the exception of prediabetes, urban areas had a higher incidence of all metabolic NCDs than rural ones. According to the nationwide survey, 315 million Americans have excessive blood pressure, 254 million are obese generally, and 351 million are obese in their midsections. In addition, 213 million individuals had hypercholesterolemia or elevated cholesterol. Also read | Taurine, a common energy drink ingredient, may slow down ageing process “It is quite evident from the study results that India has a substantial population at risk of cardiovascular disease and other long-term organ complications due to metabolic NCDs," Dr RS Dhaliwal, Scientist ‘G’ & Head, Non-communicable Disease Division, Indian Council of Medical Research told the Hindustan Times. "The findings of this study are very significant as they provide robust estimates of NCDs for the nation. Compared to earlier estimates, India currently has a substantially greater prevalence of metabolic NCDs. In India, the diabetes epidemic is in transition, with some states having already reached their peak rates while others are just getting started. The study also demonstrates that despite the fact that all metabolic NCDs are more common in urban regions, rural areas have significantly greater prevalence rates than that reported previously," Dr R.M.Anjana, Managing Director, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre (DMDSC) and President, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF told the Hindustan Times. Symptoms of diabetes The severity of diabetes symptoms is determined by blood sugar levels. Some people may not exhibit symptoms, particularly if they have prediabetes, gestational diabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may appear suddenly and are more severe, according to the Mayo Clinic. Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can both cause the following symptoms: - Noticing more thirst than usual - Frequent urination. - Weight loss without any effort. - Ketones are present in the urine. When there is insufficient insulin available, muscle and fat are broken - Down, producing ketones as a consequence. - Becoming worn out and fragile. - Irritated or experiencing other mood swings. - Vision that is hazy. - Having wounds that take a long time to heal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Over 101 million people diabetic in India, Goa leads the list: Study

The Indian High Commission in Colombo organised a defence conference and exhibition on Wednesday to highlight shared security issues faced by both countries and to encourage additional areas of collaboration and cooperation in the defence sector.

India High Commission organizes first defence exhibition in Sri Lanka

In July 2023, India will be launching a spacecraft to land on the moon. The mission is known as Chandrayaan-3 and then it will be a spacecraft mission to study the Sun from afar it is known as Aditya L1. On the sidelines of ISRO's first-ever International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations, the ISRO Chief Dr. Somnath spoke to WION's Siddharth MP.

Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission | ISRO Latest

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in the United States later this month to begin his State visit. The tour is anticipated to establish new benchmarks for the bilateral relations between the two countries, and significant announcements about defence cooperation are likely to be made.

Pentagon: PM Modi's 'historic' state visit to set new benchmarks

<p>In a significant milestone, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the new generation ballistic missile called 'Agni Prime' on 7 June 2023.</p>

<p>The test was conducted from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, located off the coast of Odisha, on June 7, 2023, and it demonstrated the successful achievement of all objectives.</p>

<p>This particular launch was significant as it marked the first pre-induction night launch conducted by the users, following three previously successful developmental trials of the missile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187">AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona</a></p>

<p>The test also confirmed the system's accuracy and reliability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Various range instrumentation systems, such as radar, telemetry, and electro-optical tracking systems were strategically deployed at different locations, including two ships positioned down-range, to collect comprehensive flight data covering the entire trajectory of the missile.</p>

<p>Senior officials from DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command witnessed the successful flight test&nbsp;which sets the stage for the missile's integration into the Armed Forces.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-anti-gay-protests-in-los-angeles-after-school-votes-on-recognizing-june-as-pride-month-602146">Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month</a></p>

<p>Rajnath Singh, the Minister of Defence, extended his congratulations to DRDO and the Armed Forces for the successful test and the flawless performance of the new generation ballistic missile, Agni Prime.</p>

<p>Dr Samir V. Kamat, the Secretary of the Department of Defence R&amp;D and Chairman of DRDO, commended the efforts of the teams from DRDO laboratories and the users involved in the test launch.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Agni Prime?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Agni P missile, developed by India's DRDO, is a two-stage ballistic missile that uses solid propellant and is stored in a canister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is equipped with a redundant navigation and guidance system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Agni Prime missile is an advanced version that follows the Agni-I and Agni-II missiles which are currently in operational use by the Strategic Forces Command.</p>

<p>Agni P incorporates significant upgrades including an improved composite motor casing, a manoeuvrable reentry vehicle (MaRV), and enhanced propellants, navigation, and guidance systems.</p>

<p>With the inclusion of a MaRV, the Agni-P missile gains the ability to deliver warheads to two distinct targets.</p>

<p>While its range is not sufficient to cover all regions of mainland China, media outlets quoting experts suggest that the primary objective of the Agni-P is to counter the Armed Forces of Pakistan.</p>

<p>However, if strategically launched from a suitable location, it could also potentially target the western, central, and southern regions of China.</p>

<p>In its second flight test on 18 December 2021, the missile demonstrated reliable performance and the successful operation of advanced technologies integrated into the system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cnn-chairman-and-ceo-chris-licht-quits-602126/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>DRDO conducted a successful test of the Agni P missile which is capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The test took place from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island, located off the coast of Odisha.</p>

<p>Throughout the test, various telemetry, radar, electro-optical stations, and ships stationed along the eastern coast tracked and monitored the missile's trajectory and parameters. The missile precisely followed its intended trajectory and achieved all mission objectives with a high level of accuracy, adhering to predefined parameters.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a significant milestone, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the new generation ballistic missile called 'Agni Prime' on 7 June 2023.

In a significant milestone, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the new generation ballistic missile called 'Agni Prime' on 7 June 2023. The test was conducted from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, located off the coast of Odisha, on June 7, 2023, and it demonstrated the successful achievement of all objectives. This particular launch was significant as it marked the first pre-induction night launch conducted by the users, following three previously successful developmental trials of the missile. Also Read | AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona The test also confirmed the system's accuracy and reliability. Various range instrumentation systems, such as radar, telemetry, and electro-optical tracking systems were strategically deployed at different locations, including two ships positioned down-range, to collect comprehensive flight data covering the entire trajectory of the missile. Senior officials from DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command witnessed the successful flight test which sets the stage for the missile's integration into the Armed Forces. Also Read | Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month Rajnath Singh, the Minister of Defence, extended his congratulations to DRDO and the Armed Forces for the successful test and the flawless performance of the new generation ballistic missile, Agni Prime. Dr Samir V. Kamat, the Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, commended the efforts of the teams from DRDO laboratories and the users involved in the test launch. What is Agni Prime? The Agni P missile, developed by India's DRDO, is a two-stage ballistic missile that uses solid propellant and is stored in a canister. It is equipped with a redundant navigation and guidance system. The Agni Prime missile is an advanced version that follows the Agni-I and Agni-II missiles which are currently in operational use by the Strategic Forces Command. Agni P incorporates significant upgrades including an improved composite motor casing, a manoeuvrable reentry vehicle (MaRV), and enhanced propellants, navigation, and guidance systems. With the inclusion of a MaRV, the Agni-P missile gains the ability to deliver warheads to two distinct targets. While its range is not sufficient to cover all regions of mainland China, media outlets quoting experts suggest that the primary objective of the Agni-P is to counter the Armed Forces of Pakistan. However, if strategically launched from a suitable location, it could also potentially target the western, central, and southern regions of China. In its second flight test on 18 December 2021, the missile demonstrated reliable performance and the successful operation of advanced technologies integrated into the system. Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits × DRDO conducted a successful test of the Agni P missile which is capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The test took place from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island, located off the coast of Odisha. Throughout the test, various telemetry, radar, electro-optical stations, and ships stationed along the eastern coast tracked and monitored the missile's trajectory and parameters. The missile precisely followed its intended trajectory and achieved all mission objectives with a high level of accuracy, adhering to predefined parameters. 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. ×

Agni Prime, India's advanced missile capable of countering Pakistan

Now the world is staring at an uncertain future with global weather patterns becoming erratic and extreme. Now scientists have announced the arrival of a climate phenomenon El Nino. It is raising fears of extreme weather and record temperatures, so what will be the impact of this phenomenon our next report answers for you.

Kerala: Monsoon finally arrives in India | India Climate News

<p>India's third Lunar Mission Chandrayaan-3 will have an orbiter (designated as Propulsion Module), but this orbiter won't carry scientific payloads, as was done during Chandrayaan-2. This means that the orbiter weighs lesser than that of its predecessor. However,&nbsp;the payload mass reduced from the orbiter has been added to the Chandrayaan-3 Lunar lander. The Indian Lunar spacecraft comprises three parts - Orbiter, Lander, and Rover.</p>

<p>"The added mass on the Lunar lander comprises more fuel, more ruggedisation, measures for failure tolerance and strengthening of landing legs and increased scientific payloads, larger solar panels for better power generation," Dr&nbsp;S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO told WION. He was responding to WION's question on whether the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft would weigh lesser than its predecessor (which weighed around 3.6 tonnes or 3,600kgs).</p>

<p>Addressing media on the sidelines of ISRO's maiden International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations, the Chief of the Indian Space Agency said that Chandrayaan-3 is to be launched in the 1-week window that begins on July 12<sup>th</sup>,&nbsp;if all were to go as per plan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/openais-ceo-sam-altman-meets-pm-modi-heres-what-was-discussed-602248">OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman meets PM Modi, here's what was discussed</a></p>

<p>Deep space missions are launched within a specific window (period of time), keeping in mind various factors including the dynamic position of the destination (with respect to Earth), the time taken to travel to the destination, the steps involved, the rocket being used, the purpose of the mission, the movement and impact of other heavenly bodies, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elaborating on the status of Chandrayaan-3, he added that the spacecraft was undergoing testing of its propulsion module (orbiter), lander, and rover, while the LVM3 rocket is also being integrated. "India's largest rocket LVM3 will be integrated and ready for Chandrayaan-3 by June-end, whereas by early July the spacecraft would be ready," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Queried about how confident the positive mission outcome of Chandrayaan-3 is, Dr&nbsp;Somanath told WION that he is always confident, but space is an unforgiving domain, where only rigorous testing and clear decision-making yield favourable results. Smilingly, making a mention of luck being involved, he said that "even luck comes out of hard work and the perseverance to do the right thing at the right time".</p>

<p>India's latest Lunar mission will take the same path and trajectory as its predecessor, as it is a tried and tested route to the moon, which is at a distance of 3,84,000 kms from Earth. The journey is expected to take around a month and a half, as a circuitous route would be followed. In September 2019, India's second Lunar Mission Chandrayaan-2 crash-landed on the lunar surface, minutes before it was expected to make a controlled vertical landing at the Lunar South Pole. With a successful Lunar landing, India hopes to join the list of nations that includes the US, Russia, and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


India's third Lunar Mission Chandrayaan-3 will have an orbiter (designated as Propulsion Module), but this orbiter won't carry scientific payloads, as was done during Chandrayaan-2.

India's third Lunar Mission Chandrayaan-3 will have an orbiter (designated as Propulsion Module), but this orbiter won't carry scientific payloads, as was done during Chandrayaan-2. This means that the orbiter weighs lesser than that of its predecessor. However, the payload mass reduced from the orbiter has been added to the Chandrayaan-3 Lunar lander. The Indian Lunar spacecraft comprises three parts - Orbiter, Lander, and Rover. "The added mass on the Lunar lander comprises more fuel, more ruggedisation, measures for failure tolerance and strengthening of landing legs and increased scientific payloads, larger solar panels for better power generation," Dr S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO told WION. He was responding to WION's question on whether the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft would weigh lesser than its predecessor (which weighed around 3.6 tonnes or 3,600kgs). Addressing media on the sidelines of ISRO's maiden International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations, the Chief of the Indian Space Agency said that Chandrayaan-3 is to be launched in the 1-week window that begins on July 12th, if all were to go as per plan. Also read | OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman meets PM Modi, here's what was discussed Deep space missions are launched within a specific window (period of time), keeping in mind various factors including the dynamic position of the destination (with respect to Earth), the time taken to travel to the destination, the steps involved, the rocket being used, the purpose of the mission, the movement and impact of other heavenly bodies, etc. Elaborating on the status of Chandrayaan-3, he added that the spacecraft was undergoing testing of its propulsion module (orbiter), lander, and rover, while the LVM3 rocket is also being integrated. "India's largest rocket LVM3 will be integrated and ready for Chandrayaan-3 by June-end, whereas by early July the spacecraft would be ready," he said. Queried about how confident the positive mission outcome of Chandrayaan-3 is, Dr Somanath told WION that he is always confident, but space is an unforgiving domain, where only rigorous testing and clear decision-making yield favourable results. Smilingly, making a mention of luck being involved, he said that "even luck comes out of hard work and the perseverance to do the right thing at the right time". India's latest Lunar mission will take the same path and trajectory as its predecessor, as it is a tried and tested route to the moon, which is at a distance of 3,84,000 kms from Earth. The journey is expected to take around a month and a half, as a circuitous route would be followed. In September 2019, India's second Lunar Mission Chandrayaan-2 crash-landed on the lunar surface, minutes before it was expected to make a controlled vertical landing at the Lunar South Pole. With a successful Lunar landing, India hopes to join the list of nations that includes the US, Russia, and China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chandrayaan-3 intended to be launched between July 12  and 19: ISRO chairman to WION

<p>Stockholm became the first city in the world to deploy self-driving electric ferry to sail between islands in the Swedish capital.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sweden's self-driving electric ferry: How does it work?</strong></h2>

<p>While a captain oversees the autonomous craft, it doesn't need to touch the controls.</p>

<p>The CEO of Brønnøysund, Norway-headquartered Torghatten, the maker of MF Estelle autonomous electric ferry, said that eventually, the idea is to make the vessel "fully autonomous", with no need for an onboard supervisor.</p>

<p>The system already "sees like a captain", CEO Stein Andre Herigstad-Olsen, was quoted as saying by the AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/self-driving-race-mercedes-takes-the-lead-world-dna-602397">Self-driving race: Mercedes takes the lead | World DNA</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/self-driving-race-mercedes-takes-the-lead-world-dna-602397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Starting next week, the MF Estelle will begin plying short routes between islands in Stockholm.</p>

<p>The boat is fitted with radar, cameras, lidar laser and ultrasonic systems that&nbsp;compile&nbsp;data to steer its course, the Norwegian company's operative chief Erik Nilsson said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ai-based-tech-start-up-develops-indias-first-autonomous-car-zpod-600898">AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod'</a></strong></p>

<p>"If a boat changes direction or if there's a canoe we see it right away in less than a second. We update the course accordingly," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Torghatten's MF Estelle: The cost and fare</strong></h2>

<p>This&nbsp;first-of-its-kind ten-metre boat costs around $1.6 million and will be able to carry up to 30 passengers. A single ticket will cost around $3.</p>

<p>It's hoped the ferry will encourage Swedes to walk or cycle to work rather than take the car.</p>

<p>The firm wants to increase the number of shuttles in Stockholm and abroad.</p>

<p>The ferry initiative was a private and public cooperation and partly EU-funded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Stockholm became the first city in the world to deploy self-driving electric ferry to sail between islands in the Swedish capital. Sweden's self-driving electric ferry: How does it work?

Stockholm became the first city in the world to deploy self-driving electric ferry to sail between islands in the Swedish capital. Sweden's self-driving electric ferry: How does it work? While a captain oversees the autonomous craft, it doesn't need to touch the controls. The CEO of Brønnøysund, Norway-headquartered Torghatten, the maker of MF Estelle autonomous electric ferry, said that eventually, the idea is to make the vessel "fully autonomous", with no need for an onboard supervisor. The system already "sees like a captain", CEO Stein Andre Herigstad-Olsen, was quoted as saying by the AFP. Also watch | Self-driving race: Mercedes takes the lead | World DNA × Starting next week, the MF Estelle will begin plying short routes between islands in Stockholm. The boat is fitted with radar, cameras, lidar laser and ultrasonic systems that compile data to steer its course, the Norwegian company's operative chief Erik Nilsson said. Also read | AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod' "If a boat changes direction or if there's a canoe we see it right away in less than a second. We update the course accordingly," he added. Torghatten's MF Estelle: The cost and fare This first-of-its-kind ten-metre boat costs around $1.6 million and will be able to carry up to 30 passengers. A single ticket will cost around $3. It's hoped the ferry will encourage Swedes to walk or cycle to work rather than take the car. The firm wants to increase the number of shuttles in Stockholm and abroad. The ferry initiative was a private and public cooperation and partly EU-funded. (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.

World's first self-driving electric ferry service deployed in this European capital

Byju's, an Indian edtech powerhouse, is preparing to lay off about 1000 employees due to ongoing issues with foreign lenders. The newest reports of layoffs come at a time when the edtech company is looking for a new infusion of funding while resolving disputes with creditors. Media sources indicate that the layoffs may mostly affect the contractual staff who work in the sales and marketing teams.

India: Byju's to cut jobs, sales and marketing teams to face the heat

There is some good news for all Indians as the country is set to host the Miss World Pageant after a gap of 27 years. The 71st edition of the beauty pageant is set to take place in Goa later this year.

India to host Miss World Pageant after 27 years, 130 countries to participate in event

<p>History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view. Both nations have chartered somewhat similar political paths in their respective nationalist upsurge.<br />
<br />
In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new parliament building, the first one built after the end of British colonial rule in 1947, in a ceremony full of Hindu symbolism as saffron-clad Shaivaite gurus from Tamil Nadu helped him symbolically install a sceptre denoting a transfer of power -- or a reminder of the morally upright rule of <em>Dharma</em>, depending on who you are talking to. But in doing so, Modi was boycotted by a significant majority of opposition parties, who thought he had denigrated democracy with his authoritarian, personality-oriented inaugural ceremony.<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-voting-starts-in-historic-presidential-election-runoff-597392">Erdogan Vs Kilicdaroglu: Voting starts in Turkey’s first-ever presidential election runoff</a></strong><br />
<br />
That should ring a bell in Ankara, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won re-election in a controversial run-off marked by a shaky mandate slammed by opposition groups as unfair. Erdogan's Islamist AKP (Justice and Development Party) could be called Turkey's Muslim nationalist equivalent of Modi's proudly Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="President Recep Tayyip Erdogan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd856460-5576-45ee-86f5-19063b8d22a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/President%20Recep%20Tayyip%20Erdogan.png" /><br />
<em>(Image:&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Credit: Reuters)</em></p>

<p>The thing is, both Turkey and India are officially secular ruled by a constitution that does not discriminate on the basis of religion. But both Erdogan and Modi represent ideologies that lean heavily on religious and cultural symbols.&nbsp;Erdogan's electoral victory coincided with the 570th anniversary of the capture of Istanbul by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in 1453. Former Indian ambassador to West Asian countries, Talmiz Ahmad, describes Erdogan's return as a "triumph of Ottoman glory."<br />
<br />
Modi's parliament inauguration was on the birth anniversary of Veer Damodar Savarkar, considered the father of BJP's Hindutva ideology that places emphasis on the principle of India as the homeland of Hindus in which people of other origins or religious affiliations do not have equal prominence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Erdogan, Turkey has become Turkiye, symbolising a return to the Ottoman past, while Modi's followers are keen to refer to India as Bharat, its local and ancient appellation linked to a civilisation preceding Muslim-led invasions and incursions or British colonial rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Mahatma Gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a0f551c-c63f-4212-a121-282a8173f387" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mahatma%20Gandhi.png" /><br />
<em>(Image:&nbsp;Archive image of Mahatma Gandhi. Credit: AFP)</em></p>

<p>We need to back further into history for a deeper understanding. Mahatma Gandhi is considered the father of modern Indian nationalism and led the Indian National Congress that the BJP ousted from power in 2014. Modi pays tributes to Gandhi, but swears by the ideological thoughts of Savarkar, the man who opposed his secularist thought. Erdogan salutes Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the statesman who turned predominantly Islamic Turkey into a modern secular republic in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following the First World War but there is a catch. Though he says his country has "eternal respect" for Ataturk, a lot of what Erdogan does and says seems to fly in the face of Ataturk's liberal unifying outlook -- and that must sound familiar to Modi critics who say the BJP leader could not possibly be following both Savarkar and Gandhi at once.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Mustafa Kemal Ataturk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0a91e18-2864-4fa3-92fd-a413779474af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mustafa%20Kemal%20Ataturk.png" /></p>

<p><em>Image: Archive image of&nbsp;Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
More interesting stuff. The road right next to the one where India's prime ministerial residence is housed is named after none other than Ataturk -- a symbol of anti-colonial solidarity between India and Turkey. &nbsp;And yes, Ankara has its own Mahatma Gandhi Caddesi (Street).<br />
<br />
Gandhi, despite his awe-inspiring stature, has been controversial in India for his support to the 1919-2024 Khilafat (Caliphate) Movement against British policy in Turkey that ended the Ottoman empire, whose glory Erdogan wants to restore. The non-violent Gandhi supported &nbsp;Khilafat to help unite Hindus and Muslims in the subcontinent against British rule, but critics say the seeds of the painful, bloody Partition that led to the carving of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan from undivided India were watered by the Khilafat movement. Gandhi reluctantly agreed to the Partition and was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, an associate of Savarkar, who was tried in the murder case but set free.<br />
<br />
So where does all this leave bilateral relations between the two countries? Turkey has long been a supporter of Pakistan in international fora on the Kashmir dispute between the subcontinent's divided nations. Its decision to stay away from Srinagar in Kashmir where a G-20 countries' meeting on tourism took place this month is only the latest in a series of such events.<br />
<br />
Yet, it is the same Turkey that lauded India and Gandhi when Modi's government sent vaccines to help the country fight the Covid-19 pandemic. India also helped Turkey last February with "Operation Dost' -- a medical and search-and-rescue mission involving a 99-member army team, when Turkey was shaken by a severe earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people. If a friend in need is a friend indeed, it is time for Turkey to recall how from Khilafat to Covid-19 and quake aid, India has been a supporter of just causes.</p>

<p><img alt="Kemal Kilicdaroglu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34be1645-c370-4baf-b0da-87dcb9d094a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kemal%20Kilicdaroglu%20%282%29.png" /><br />
<em>(Image:&nbsp;Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Credit: Reuters)</em></p>

<p>One thing Erdogan could do is to stop seeing India through the Pakistan prism. If his respect for Ataturk is not lip service, and if his gratitude to India runs deep, &nbsp;there are other ways to see India by engaging in meaningful conversations that recognise a new world order and stay mum on Kashmir. The Kashmir dispute is far more complex than simplistic Hindu-Muslim narratives would suggest -- and from distant Turkey, it is a blurred view.<br />
<br />
The most bizarre of coincidences is of course, the fact that the face of the man who narrowly lost to Erdogan, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, bears an uncanny resemblance to Mahatma Gandhi, or at least Ben Kingsley who played the independence leader in the Oscar-winning biopic. "Gandhi Kemal" is also famous for his humble style resembling the Mahatma and is a leader of CHP, the Republican People's Party founded by Ataturk.<br />
<br />
If that is what keeps Erdogan from recognising India in a new light, we should be looking at Freudian psychology than diplomatic principles to understand his mind.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em><br />
<br />
WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view.

History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view. Both nations have chartered somewhat similar political paths in their respective nationalist upsurge. In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new parliament building, the first one built after the end of British colonial rule in 1947, in a ceremony full of Hindu symbolism as saffron-clad Shaivaite gurus from Tamil Nadu helped him symbolically install a sceptre denoting a transfer of power -- or a reminder of the morally upright rule of Dharma, depending on who you are talking to. But in doing so, Modi was boycotted by a significant majority of opposition parties, who thought he had denigrated democracy with his authoritarian, personality-oriented inaugural ceremony. ALSO READ| Erdogan Vs Kilicdaroglu: Voting starts in Turkey’s first-ever presidential election runoff That should ring a bell in Ankara, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won re-election in a controversial run-off marked by a shaky mandate slammed by opposition groups as unfair. Erdogan's Islamist AKP (Justice and Development Party) could be called Turkey's Muslim nationalist equivalent of Modi's proudly Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party. (Image: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Credit: Reuters) The thing is, both Turkey and India are officially secular ruled by a constitution that does not discriminate on the basis of religion. But both Erdogan and Modi represent ideologies that lean heavily on religious and cultural symbols. Erdogan's electoral victory coincided with the 570th anniversary of the capture of Istanbul by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in 1453. Former Indian ambassador to West Asian countries, Talmiz Ahmad, describes Erdogan's return as a "triumph of Ottoman glory." Modi's parliament inauguration was on the birth anniversary of Veer Damodar Savarkar, considered the father of BJP's Hindutva ideology that places emphasis on the principle of India as the homeland of Hindus in which people of other origins or religious affiliations do not have equal prominence. Under Erdogan, Turkey has become Turkiye, symbolising a return to the Ottoman past, while Modi's followers are keen to refer to India as Bharat, its local and ancient appellation linked to a civilisation preceding Muslim-led invasions and incursions or British colonial rule. (Image: Archive image of Mahatma Gandhi. Credit: AFP) We need to back further into history for a deeper understanding. Mahatma Gandhi is considered the father of modern Indian nationalism and led the Indian National Congress that the BJP ousted from power in 2014. Modi pays tributes to Gandhi, but swears by the ideological thoughts of Savarkar, the man who opposed his secularist thought. Erdogan salutes Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the statesman who turned predominantly Islamic Turkey into a modern secular republic in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following the First World War but there is a catch. Though he says his country has "eternal respect" for Ataturk, a lot of what Erdogan does and says seems to fly in the face of Ataturk's liberal unifying outlook -- and that must sound familiar to Modi critics who say the BJP leader could not possibly be following both Savarkar and Gandhi at once. Image: Archive image of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. More interesting stuff. The road right next to the one where India's prime ministerial residence is housed is named after none other than Ataturk -- a symbol of anti-colonial solidarity between India and Turkey. And yes, Ankara has its own Mahatma Gandhi Caddesi (Street). Gandhi, despite his awe-inspiring stature, has been controversial in India for his support to the 1919-2024 Khilafat (Caliphate) Movement against British policy in Turkey that ended the Ottoman empire, whose glory Erdogan wants to restore. The non-violent Gandhi supported Khilafat to help unite Hindus and Muslims in the subcontinent against British rule, but critics say the seeds of the painful, bloody Partition that led to the carving of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan from undivided India were watered by the Khilafat movement. Gandhi reluctantly agreed to the Partition and was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, an associate of Savarkar, who was tried in the murder case but set free. So where does all this leave bilateral relations between the two countries? Turkey has long been a supporter of Pakistan in international fora on the Kashmir dispute between the subcontinent's divided nations. Its decision to stay away from Srinagar in Kashmir where a G-20 countries' meeting on tourism took place this month is only the latest in a series of such events. Yet, it is the same Turkey that lauded India and Gandhi when Modi's government sent vaccines to help the country fight the Covid-19 pandemic. India also helped Turkey last February with "Operation Dost' -- a medical and search-and-rescue mission involving a 99-member army team, when Turkey was shaken by a severe earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people. If a friend in need is a friend indeed, it is time for Turkey to recall how from Khilafat to Covid-19 and quake aid, India has been a supporter of just causes. (Image: Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Credit: Reuters) One thing Erdogan could do is to stop seeing India through the Pakistan prism. If his respect for Ataturk is not lip service, and if his gratitude to India runs deep, there are other ways to see India by engaging in meaningful conversations that recognise a new world order and stay mum on Kashmir. The Kashmir dispute is far more complex than simplistic Hindu-Muslim narratives would suggest -- and from distant Turkey, it is a blurred view. The most bizarre of coincidences is of course, the fact that the face of the man who narrowly lost to Erdogan, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, bears an uncanny resemblance to Mahatma Gandhi, or at least Ben Kingsley who played the independence leader in the Oscar-winning biopic. "Gandhi Kemal" is also famous for his humble style resembling the Mahatma and is a leader of CHP, the Republican People's Party founded by Ataturk. If that is what keeps Erdogan from recognising India in a new light, we should be looking at Freudian psychology than diplomatic principles to understand his mind. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

From Khilafat to quake aid: Why re-elected Erdogan must see Gandhi and Modi's India in a new light

<p>The same-sex marriage issue in India has been a bone of contention between the government and the marginalised LGBTQ community, for quite some time now. Last month, in a path-breaking development, 18 couples from the community petitioned the Supreme Court of India asking for same-sex rights to marriage citing their status as equal citizens of a free country.<br />
<br />
But this is more than just being a complex issue, as the petitioners, the government, the advocates of same-sex marriages and the world that has been watching this circus play out in court, have found out. The Supreme Court of India has of now reserved its judgement and nobody knows what the outcome will be.<br />
Reports say that India is home to the world's largest LGBTQ+ community, according to the globally recognised Kinsey scale that estimates that it numbers around 135 million people — or 10% of India's population of 1.4 billion. With the burgeoning numbers, it can be expected that there would be considerable support for this community. But, alas, no!</p>

<p>At last month’s hearing before a Constitution Bench of the Indian Supreme Court, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued rightly that societal values cannot trump equal treatment. There were some more practical and hard-hitting facts brought to the SC’s notice that garnered wide praise and acclaim for the cause and yet its fate hangs in abeyance, marred by conventional dialogue from the establishment.<br />
Despite homosexuality being decriminalised in the year 2018 in India, after years of horrifying and unfair methods of dealing with the community, five years later, we have not made much progress.<br />
<br />
The world over, what is the state of the LGBTQ community? To answer this, we have to go a little back in time. The early 21st century witnessed more pronounced lobbying to recognise same-sex unions, especially in northern Europe leading to many countries in the European continent to give that recognition to same-sex unions. Denmark became the first country in 1989 to recognise same-sex unions (not marriages), permitting registered partnerships for same-sex couples.<br />
<br />
Other countries like Norway in 1993, Sweden in 1995, Iceland in 1996 and Netherlands in 1998 enacted similar laws recognising civil unions and partnerships. The United Kingdom followed suit with the enactment of Civil Partnership Act, 2004 and Marriage (same-sex couples) Act 2013 recognising same-sex unions and marriages. Oddly, it was only a late as 2015 that the United States recognised/legalised same-sex marriages.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/propaganda-vs-bullying-groups-of-parents-clash-at-anti-lgbtq-protest-outside-los-angeles-school-599920">Propaganda' vs 'bullying': Groups of parents clash at anti-LGBTQ protest outside Los Angeles school</a></strong><br />
<br />
However, conservative countries in Asia, Africa particularly the Islamic ones resisted legalising and recognising same-sex unions with harsh laws that prosecuted the LGBTQIA+. Most laws in these countries go back to the colonial era and need to be rehauled.<br />
<br />
Stigma, threats and violence are common ways of targeting this community on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identities. Strangely enough a country like Iran legally recognises transgenders, as long as they agree to undergo sex reassignment surgery!<br />
<br />
Coming to the African nations, South Africa &nbsp;is the only country to legalise same-sex marriages and its constitution prohibits discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation. In Asia, Taiwan became the first country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019. Israel also recognises same-sex marriages performed validly outside the country. Interestingly, the Supreme Court of Nepal in March 2023 directed the government to recognise a same-sex marriage performed in Germany with a further direction to legalise same-sex marriage in Nepal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>First coined in the 1990s, the term LGBT is used to include anyone who is not heterosexual or cisgender (whose gender identity is the same as their sex at birth). Other variants to bring all under one umbrella of sexuality and gender, have been introduced. Among them are LGBT+ and LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual/transgender, and queer)</p>

<p>According to figures available with Statista, worldwide, 68 countries criminalize homosexuality as of 2022. Most of them are located in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In 11 countries, the death penalty is imposed or at least a possibility for private, consensual same-sex sexual activity. These countries are Iran, Northern Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Brunei, Mauritania, Pakistan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile in India, though homosexuality is no longer a crime, the battle to achieve equality with appealing for same sex marriages to be made legal, has just begun.<br />
<br />
Going back to the annals of history, we can note that marriage is one of the oldest institutions, estimated to be around 4,350 years old and typically (and often incorrectly) assumed to be a union between parties of the opposite gender. While same sex unions are rare in history, it is not by any stretch of imagination a rarity or a modern day novelty as is often assumed. Nero, the Roman emperor who ruled from A.D 54 to 68, was purportedly married twice to men in formal wedding ceremonies. Closer home, there are enough references in the Rig Veda to suggest that same sex unions was tolerated, and who can ignore the temples at Khajuraho depicting sexual fluidity between the members of the same sex.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This tolerance towards same sex unions changed with the invasion of the British in India and the imposition of Anglo-Saxon ideals, resulting in vilifying and criminalising homosexuality in India. Section 377 of the British colonial penal code which criminalised all sexual acts against the order of nature, was introduced in 1861 as Section 377 to the Indian Penal Code, 1860. For almost 157 years, i.e., from 1861 till 2018, homosexuality was considered to be a criminal offence in India, until the Supreme Court reversed it in a historic verdict in 2018.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Despite the fact that almost 34 countries in the world now recognise/legitimise same-sex marriages, the Indian legislature has been dragging its feet in granting statutory recognition to same-sex marriages/unions.<br />
In the recent same-sex marriage row in India, it was argued that many legislations related to the rights of a person that the recognition of a marriage confers, such as adoption, inheritance divorce etc., will have to be redefined to accommodate same-sex couples and consequently the claims sought should not be allowed without taking into consideration the other factors affecting the recognition of same-sex marriage.<br />
<br />
The argument raised by the government is based on a settled principle of law that the judiciary should not impinge on the domain of the legislature, however, the reliefs claimed by the petitioners from the Supreme Court is not a relief to enact certain clauses in the statute but to strike down certain preconditions under the statute which are discriminatory and a judicial declaration of same-sex marriages under the Special Marriage Act. Both these reliefs can be granted by the Supreme Court and does not interfere in the domain of the legislature to legislate.<br />
<br />
It is likely that the Indian Supreme Court will allow the reliefs or at least give a judicial recognition to same-sex marriages since it has already upheld the fundamental rights of LGBTQIA+ persons to equality, non-discrimination, freedom of expression, privacy, dignity, autonomy, and health under Articles 14, 15, 19 (1) and 21 of the Constitution in its landmark decision in National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India.<br />
<br />
As of now, the arguments and counterarguments against the case put the onus for the decisions to be in favour of the LGBTQ community only if it is agreed that not the Supreme Court but the Parliament has to decide about legalising same-sex unions. Reason being, that it is a social issue that can be decided by society and thereby a change made to enacted laws in Parliament with majority voting and not decided as a conflict in court that has no authority to decide a societal issue.<br />
<br />
As the buck is passed, it is all a matter of wait and watch for India and the world where the LGBTQ communities are growing from strength and strength and it is a truth that nobody can ignore.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


The same-sex marriage issue in India has been a bone of contention between the government and the marginalised LGBTQ community, for quite some time now. Last month, in a path-breaking development, 18 couples from the community petitioned the Supreme Court of India asking for same-sex rights to marriage citing their status as equal citizens of a free country.

The same-sex marriage issue in India has been a bone of contention between the government and the marginalised LGBTQ community, for quite some time now. Last month, in a path-breaking development, 18 couples from the community petitioned the Supreme Court of India asking for same-sex rights to marriage citing their status as equal citizens of a free country. But this is more than just being a complex issue, as the petitioners, the government, the advocates of same-sex marriages and the world that has been watching this circus play out in court, have found out. The Supreme Court of India has of now reserved its judgement and nobody knows what the outcome will be. Reports say that India is home to the world's largest LGBTQ+ community, according to the globally recognised Kinsey scale that estimates that it numbers around 135 million people — or 10% of India's population of 1.4 billion. With the burgeoning numbers, it can be expected that there would be considerable support for this community. But, alas, no! At last month’s hearing before a Constitution Bench of the Indian Supreme Court, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued rightly that societal values cannot trump equal treatment. There were some more practical and hard-hitting facts brought to the SC’s notice that garnered wide praise and acclaim for the cause and yet its fate hangs in abeyance, marred by conventional dialogue from the establishment. Despite homosexuality being decriminalised in the year 2018 in India, after years of horrifying and unfair methods of dealing with the community, five years later, we have not made much progress. The world over, what is the state of the LGBTQ community? To answer this, we have to go a little back in time. The early 21st century witnessed more pronounced lobbying to recognise same-sex unions, especially in northern Europe leading to many countries in the European continent to give that recognition to same-sex unions. Denmark became the first country in 1989 to recognise same-sex unions (not marriages), permitting registered partnerships for same-sex couples. Other countries like Norway in 1993, Sweden in 1995, Iceland in 1996 and Netherlands in 1998 enacted similar laws recognising civil unions and partnerships. The United Kingdom followed suit with the enactment of Civil Partnership Act, 2004 and Marriage (same-sex couples) Act 2013 recognising same-sex unions and marriages. Oddly, it was only a late as 2015 that the United States recognised/legalised same-sex marriages. ALSO READ| Propaganda' vs 'bullying': Groups of parents clash at anti-LGBTQ protest outside Los Angeles school However, conservative countries in Asia, Africa particularly the Islamic ones resisted legalising and recognising same-sex unions with harsh laws that prosecuted the LGBTQIA+. Most laws in these countries go back to the colonial era and need to be rehauled. Stigma, threats and violence are common ways of targeting this community on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identities. Strangely enough a country like Iran legally recognises transgenders, as long as they agree to undergo sex reassignment surgery! Coming to the African nations, South Africa is the only country to legalise same-sex marriages and its constitution prohibits discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation. In Asia, Taiwan became the first country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019. Israel also recognises same-sex marriages performed validly outside the country. Interestingly, the Supreme Court of Nepal in March 2023 directed the government to recognise a same-sex marriage performed in Germany with a further direction to legalise same-sex marriage in Nepal. First coined in the 1990s, the term LGBT is used to include anyone who is not heterosexual or cisgender (whose gender identity is the same as their sex at birth). Other variants to bring all under one umbrella of sexuality and gender, have been introduced. Among them are LGBT+ and LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual/transgender, and queer) According to figures available with Statista, worldwide, 68 countries criminalize homosexuality as of 2022. Most of them are located in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In 11 countries, the death penalty is imposed or at least a possibility for private, consensual same-sex sexual activity. These countries are Iran, Northern Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Brunei, Mauritania, Pakistan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile in India, though homosexuality is no longer a crime, the battle to achieve equality with appealing for same sex marriages to be made legal, has just begun. Going back to the annals of history, we can note that marriage is one of the oldest institutions, estimated to be around 4,350 years old and typically (and often incorrectly) assumed to be a union between parties of the opposite gender. While same sex unions are rare in history, it is not by any stretch of imagination a rarity or a modern day novelty as is often assumed. Nero, the Roman emperor who ruled from A.D 54 to 68, was purportedly married twice to men in formal wedding ceremonies. Closer home, there are enough references in the Rig Veda to suggest that same sex unions was tolerated, and who can ignore the temples at Khajuraho depicting sexual fluidity between the members of the same sex. This tolerance towards same sex unions changed with the invasion of the British in India and the imposition of Anglo-Saxon ideals, resulting in vilifying and criminalising homosexuality in India. Section 377 of the British colonial penal code which criminalised all sexual acts against the order of nature, was introduced in 1861 as Section 377 to the Indian Penal Code, 1860. For almost 157 years, i.e., from 1861 till 2018, homosexuality was considered to be a criminal offence in India, until the Supreme Court reversed it in a historic verdict in 2018. Despite the fact that almost 34 countries in the world now recognise/legitimise same-sex marriages, the Indian legislature has been dragging its feet in granting statutory recognition to same-sex marriages/unions. In the recent same-sex marriage row in India, it was argued that many legislations related to the rights of a person that the recognition of a marriage confers, such as adoption, inheritance divorce etc., will have to be redefined to accommodate same-sex couples and consequently the claims sought should not be allowed without taking into consideration the other factors affecting the recognition of same-sex marriage. The argument raised by the government is based on a settled principle of law that the judiciary should not impinge on the domain of the legislature, however, the reliefs claimed by the petitioners from the Supreme Court is not a relief to enact certain clauses in the statute but to strike down certain preconditions under the statute which are discriminatory and a judicial declaration of same-sex marriages under the Special Marriage Act. Both these reliefs can be granted by the Supreme Court and does not interfere in the domain of the legislature to legislate. It is likely that the Indian Supreme Court will allow the reliefs or at least give a judicial recognition to same-sex marriages since it has already upheld the fundamental rights of LGBTQIA+ persons to equality, non-discrimination, freedom of expression, privacy, dignity, autonomy, and health under Articles 14, 15, 19 (1) and 21 of the Constitution in its landmark decision in National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India. As of now, the arguments and counterarguments against the case put the onus for the decisions to be in favour of the LGBTQ community only if it is agreed that not the Supreme Court but the Parliament has to decide about legalising same-sex unions. Reason being, that it is a social issue that can be decided by society and thereby a change made to enacted laws in Parliament with majority voting and not decided as a conflict in court that has no authority to decide a societal issue. As the buck is passed, it is all a matter of wait and watch for India and the world where the LGBTQ communities are growing from strength and strength and it is a truth that nobody can ignore. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

LGBTQ Pride Month: In the end, equality has to be served

<p>A centuries old tunnel-like structure was accidentally discovered at a children's museum in New Delhi this week. The discovery of the tunnel, reportedly dating back to the 13th or 14th century, was made during one of the redevelopment efforts undertaken by Archeological Survey of India, the chief government authority on archaeological research and preservation of cultural-historical monuments in India.</p>

<p>Owing to its millennia-old rich history, the present-day India is home to the sixth largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.</p>

<p>Officials cited by Hindustan Times said that only the opening of the arched structure is visible, and no further digging will be done. They further added that the structure will be kept intact as one of the displays at the children's museum.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-iconic-jama-masjid-may-soon-get-seminal-revamp-590426">India: Delhi's iconic Jama Masjid may soon get seminal revamp</a></strong></p>

<p>"We were creating a four-metre-wide path from the front gate to the main road during which this arch-like structure emerged," Praveen Singh, superintending archaeologist, Delhi circle, Archaeological Survey of India, was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.</p>

<h2><strong>Children's Museum in Siri Fort, New Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>For the children of India's national capital, the museum displays 30 replicas of popular monuments from all across India and abroad. Despite an overt infringement by the Instagram-savvy notoriety of the latest generations, the ASI has managed to keep the museum bright and historically sound with more upgrades planned in the near future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The museum upgradation work is going on under which more replicas will be added to the museum," Singh added.</p>

<p>"This was not a formal excavation site, but a chance finding. All such structures in the vicinity of Siri Fort are from the times of the Khilji dynasty that ruled Delhi during the 13th and 14th century. We have now exposed about five-six feet of the structure and will keep it as a display for the children to show how such structures are discovered during excavation," said Singh.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India celebrates Eid; Morning prayers of Jama Masjid</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-celebrates-eid-morning-prayers-of-jama-masjid-144761/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier, in the run-up to the museum's opening in 2011, officials had found several pottery remains presumed to be the belongings of ordinary folks working in the officialdom of 13th and 14th century rulers of present-day Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the officials cited in the HT report said that they are not aware of what the tunnel-like structure leads to. But if the higher authorities approve, further excavation will reportedly be done to determine where this tunnel leads to.</p>

<p>The discovery of previously unknown tunnels is not new in the Indian capital.</p>

<p>In 2021, the capital's populace was left stunned when a secret tunnel connecting historical Red Fort with present-day Delhi Legislative Assembly building was discovered. The tunnel was used by the British after 1857 rebellion for India's independence to avoid reprisal from freedom fighters.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A centuries old tunnel-like structure was accidentally discovered at a children's museum in New Delhi this week. The discovery of the tunnel, reportedly dating back to the 13th or 14th century, was made during one of the redevelopment efforts undertaken by Archeological Survey of India, the chief government authority on archaeological research and preservation of cultural-historical monuments in India.

A centuries old tunnel-like structure was accidentally discovered at a children's museum in New Delhi this week. The discovery of the tunnel, reportedly dating back to the 13th or 14th century, was made during one of the redevelopment efforts undertaken by Archeological Survey of India, the chief government authority on archaeological research and preservation of cultural-historical monuments in India. Owing to its millennia-old rich history, the present-day India is home to the sixth largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Officials cited by Hindustan Times said that only the opening of the arched structure is visible, and no further digging will be done. They further added that the structure will be kept intact as one of the displays at the children's museum. Also read | India: Delhi's iconic Jama Masjid may soon get seminal revamp "We were creating a four-metre-wide path from the front gate to the main road during which this arch-like structure emerged," Praveen Singh, superintending archaeologist, Delhi circle, Archaeological Survey of India, was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. Children's Museum in Siri Fort, New Delhi For the children of India's national capital, the museum displays 30 replicas of popular monuments from all across India and abroad. Despite an overt infringement by the Instagram-savvy notoriety of the latest generations, the ASI has managed to keep the museum bright and historically sound with more upgrades planned in the near future. "The museum upgradation work is going on under which more replicas will be added to the museum," Singh added. "This was not a formal excavation site, but a chance finding. All such structures in the vicinity of Siri Fort are from the times of the Khilji dynasty that ruled Delhi during the 13th and 14th century. We have now exposed about five-six feet of the structure and will keep it as a display for the children to show how such structures are discovered during excavation," said Singh. Also watch | India celebrates Eid; Morning prayers of Jama Masjid × Earlier, in the run-up to the museum's opening in 2011, officials had found several pottery remains presumed to be the belongings of ordinary folks working in the officialdom of 13th and 14th century rulers of present-day Delhi. Meanwhile, the officials cited in the HT report said that they are not aware of what the tunnel-like structure leads to. But if the higher authorities approve, further excavation will reportedly be done to determine where this tunnel leads to. The discovery of previously unknown tunnels is not new in the Indian capital. In 2021, the capital's populace was left stunned when a secret tunnel connecting historical Red Fort with present-day Delhi Legislative Assembly building was discovered. The tunnel was used by the British after 1857 rebellion for India's independence to avoid reprisal from freedom fighters. 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: Officials discover centuries-old tunnel at a children's museum in Delhi

<p>In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that their motive was to seek revenge against him for what they believed was an unfair treatment of their daughter.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187">AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona</a></p>

<p>When asked why he is changing his statement now, the father told PTI news agency, “It’s better that truth comes out now instead of court."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now that interactions have started, the government has promised fair enquiry into my daughter’s defeat (in Asian U17 championship trials) last year, so it is also my duty that I rectify my mistake,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This came a day after the Indian Union Sports Minister of India Anurag Thakur promised the protesting wrestlers that the investigation into the sexual harassment case against the WFI chief will be looked into by&nbsp;June 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-anti-gay-protests-in-los-angeles-after-school-votes-on-recognizing-june-as-pride-month-602146">Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month</a></p>

<p>With this latest development, the case is believed to be significantly weakened.</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been under fire as many renowned Indian wrestlers have been holding continuous protests for the past six months. They have accused India's wrestling body chief of sexual harassment and urged the government to take steps to address the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complaint by the young wrestler also prompted an investigation under the POCSO Act.</p>

<h2><strong>Animosity rooted in Under 17 Asian Championship trials</strong></h2>

<p>The father further explained the reason for their animosity towards Singh. He detailed the events that led to it.</p>

<p>According to him, the animosity originated from the 2022 Under 17 Asian Championship trials in Lucknow, where the young wrestler lost the final match and missed out on being selected for the Indian team.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cnn-chairman-and-ceo-chris-licht-quits-602126/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>They held Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accountable for the referee's decision, and the father stated that he was consumed by anger when he saw that his child's year-long hard work was wasted due to the referee's decision in the final.</p>

<p>“I was filled with rage my child’s one-year hard work had gone down the drain because of that referee’s decision in the final and I decided to take revenge,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's important to note that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual harassment, including those made by the minor wrestler.</p>

<p>"I had a long 6-hour discussion with the wrestlers. We have assured wrestlers that the probe will be completed by 15th June and chargesheets will be submitted. The election of WFI will be done by 30th June," Anurag Thakur had said when he met the wrestlers.</p>

<p>The sports minister also pledged that Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections will be conducted before the end of June in order to avoid a potential ban on the body. The situation in the country over wrestlers' protests remains tense. Earlier, the United World Wrestling (UWW) on May 30 threatened to suspend India's wrestling body.</p>

<p>"It was a very positive discussion with the agitating wrestlers. All the issues that came from their side were discussed seriously. We have said that the chargesheet will be filed by June 15 and the Wrestling Federation of India's elections will be held by June 30. For the players, the Internal Complaint Committee will be formed and a woman player or an official will be made its chairperson," Thakur told media personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made.

In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made. He said that their motive was to seek revenge against him for what they believed was an unfair treatment of their daughter. Also Read | AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona When asked why he is changing his statement now, the father told PTI news agency, “It’s better that truth comes out now instead of court." “Now that interactions have started, the government has promised fair enquiry into my daughter’s defeat (in Asian U17 championship trials) last year, so it is also my duty that I rectify my mistake,” he added. This came a day after the Indian Union Sports Minister of India Anurag Thakur promised the protesting wrestlers that the investigation into the sexual harassment case against the WFI chief will be looked into by June 15. Also Read | Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month With this latest development, the case is believed to be significantly weakened. It is pertinent to note that WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been under fire as many renowned Indian wrestlers have been holding continuous protests for the past six months. They have accused India's wrestling body chief of sexual harassment and urged the government to take steps to address the issue. The complaint by the young wrestler also prompted an investigation under the POCSO Act. Animosity rooted in Under 17 Asian Championship trials The father further explained the reason for their animosity towards Singh. He detailed the events that led to it. According to him, the animosity originated from the 2022 Under 17 Asian Championship trials in Lucknow, where the young wrestler lost the final match and missed out on being selected for the Indian team. Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits × They held Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accountable for the referee's decision, and the father stated that he was consumed by anger when he saw that his child's year-long hard work was wasted due to the referee's decision in the final. “I was filled with rage my child’s one-year hard work had gone down the drain because of that referee’s decision in the final and I decided to take revenge,” he said. It's important to note that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual harassment, including those made by the minor wrestler. "I had a long 6-hour discussion with the wrestlers. We have assured wrestlers that the probe will be completed by 15th June and chargesheets will be submitted. The election of WFI will be done by 30th June," Anurag Thakur had said when he met the wrestlers. The sports minister also pledged that Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections will be conducted before the end of June in order to avoid a potential ban on the body. The situation in the country over wrestlers' protests remains tense. Earlier, the United World Wrestling (UWW) on May 30 threatened to suspend India's wrestling body. "It was a very positive discussion with the agitating wrestlers. All the issues that came from their side were discussed seriously. We have said that the chargesheet will be filed by June 15 and the Wrestling Federation of India's elections will be held by June 30. For the players, the Internal Complaint Committee will be formed and a woman player or an official will be made its chairperson," Thakur told media personnel. 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. ×

Filed false sexual harassment case against India's wrestling body chief: Father of minor wrestler

The NIFTY 50 closed out the day on a high yesterday, and it seems to be carrying some of that momentum today... Let's bring up the chart for you now. Remember, it has been a dull year for those who entered the markets at the beginning of the year. The returns for those investors may not be much. But value hunters who bought during the march lows must be delighted. The nifty 50 has risen from 17,000 points to 18,700. That's a rally of more than 10% in less than three months.

India's NIFTY 50 close to all-time highs

A rice-eating wild elephant has become a cause for concern in the two Southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There's a wild Tusker that reads Russian shops and homes in search of rice in recent weeks. The authorities in both the states have made efforts to move the elephant away from human settlements.

India's rice-eating wild elephant: Arikkomban, who killed 11 people, captured in Tamil Nadu

<p dir="ltr">India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an <a href="https://go.checkpoint.com/2023-cyber-security-report/chapter-03.php">analysis </a>by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst.</p>

<p>The latest cyber-attack on India’s premier&nbsp;medical institution, the All India Institute of Medical Science&nbsp;(AIIMS), New Delhi,&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aiims-says-malware-attack-successfully-thwarted-by-cyber-security-systems-601396">second such attack in a row</a> has rekindled discussion over India's&nbsp;preparedness&nbsp;to deal with attacks of the given nature.&nbsp;AIIMS in a statement released on Monday (June 5) said the attempt of malware attack was successfully thwarted and the threat was neutralised in time. But, the bigger questions of India's vulnerability, vigilance and digitalisation still remain unanswered.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe aria-label="Grouped Bars" data-external="1" frameborder="0" height="546" id="datawrapper-chart-7Exvx" scrolling="no" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7Exvx/1/" style="border: none;" title="Avg weekly cyber attacks per organisation by sector in 2022 (Globally)" width="600"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Why is India being targetted?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Cyber-attacks are frequently directed towards India due to its large population and expanding internet user base, resulting in a substantial attack surface, explains <strong>Dr Ananth Prabhu G, cyber law and security expert </strong>for various Indian law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>“The country's economic progress and digital modernisation have led to increased digitisation in various sectors, which has caught the attention of cyber-criminals who seek financial benefits and access to sensitive data. Additionally, India's global prominence and intricate political and geopolitical relationships make it a prime target for attacks motivated by politics, espionage, or the disruption of critical infrastructure. Government initiatives and the collection of vast amounts of personal data have made the systems enticing targets,” he told <strong>WION</strong>.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>India’s healthcare sector a constant target? Why is health-related data so critical?</strong></h2>

<p>A nationwide initiative to <a href="https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/17739294021483341357.pdf">digitise medical data</a> was launched in September 2021, and as of now, more than 173,000 hospitals have enrolled with it. In accordance with medical records kept by hospitals on their own servers or in cloud storage, the programme allocates patient numbers that are linked to those records.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Healthcare data is a prime target for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-bigest-cyber-fraud-doctor-duped-of-rs-45-crore-548k-via-skype-calls-594502">cyber-criminals</a> due to its immense value and inherent vulnerabilities. Firstly, healthcare data contains a plethora of sensitive information that can be exploited for illicit purposes. Personally identifiable information (PII) like names, addresses, Aadhar, and insurance details can be illicitly traded on the black market for identity theft or used in fraudulent financial activities. Furthermore, medical records and health information hold significant worth as they can be leveraged for fraudulent billing, acquiring prescription drugs, or even extorting individuals with sensitive health conditions. The high value attached to healthcare data makes it an enticing objective for cyber-criminals seeking financial gain or other malicious intentions,” explains Dr Prabhu G.</p>

<p dir="ltr">He further adds that healthcare systems are “particularly appealing” to hackers because they often possess weaker security measures compared to other industries. The healthcare sector traditionally prioritises patient care and operational efficiency over robust cybersecurity, leaving vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit. Outdated software, legacy systems, and inadequate investments in cyber security infrastructure render healthcare organisations more susceptible to attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Second malware attack at AIIMS, New Delhi&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/second-malware-attack-at-aiims-new-delhi-cyber-attack-india-news-601464/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Digitalisation and the risk of cyber-crimes</strong></h2>

<p>As per industry estimates, 2022 was India's worst year to date for cyber-attacks, an issue that has only become worse with rising digitalisation.</p>

<p>“The process of digitalisation heightens the vulnerability to cyber crime as it expands the attack surface through interconnected systems, adds complexity to IT infrastructure, involves the accumulation of valuable data, increases connectivity, and witnesses the continuous evolution of cyber threats. This combination of factors grants cybercriminals numerous avenues to exploit weaknesses, pilfer sensitive information, disrupt operations, and inflict financial and reputational harm,” Dr Prabhu G said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Way forward</strong></h2>

<p>Technology usage is accelerating, which will lead to an increase in cyber-attack frequency and intensity. How can organisations curb the risk of a cyber-attack in that case?</p>

<p>“To bridge the gap and address the challenges posed by cyber-crime, it is essential to enhance collaboration between government agencies, private sector organisations, and cyber-security experts, while also prioritising robust cyber-security measures, education and training programmes, adequate resources and investment, legislation and regulation, international cooperation, continuous monitoring and incident response capabilities, and specific cyber-security awareness initiatives in sectors like healthcare. By taking these comprehensive steps, we can work towards a safer digital landscape, mitigate cyber threats, protect sensitive data, and foster a collective defence against cyber-criminals,” Dr Prabhu G explains.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The most significant issue, notwithstanding India's security measures, is the ability of the criminals to penetrate the Indian cyber-security system, regardless of whether or not these attacks result in data or financial loss. Therefore, it is imperative to implement the <a href="https://www.meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/DIA_Presentation%2009.03.2023%20Final.pdf">digital India Act</a>.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an analysis by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst.

India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an analysis by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst. The latest cyber-attack on India’s premier medical institution, the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), New Delhi, the second such attack in a row has rekindled discussion over India's preparedness to deal with attacks of the given nature. AIIMS in a statement released on Monday (June 5) said the attempt of malware attack was successfully thwarted and the threat was neutralised in time. But, the bigger questions of India's vulnerability, vigilance and digitalisation still remain unanswered. × Why is India being targetted? Cyber-attacks are frequently directed towards India due to its large population and expanding internet user base, resulting in a substantial attack surface, explains Dr Ananth Prabhu G, cyber law and security expert for various Indian law enforcement agencies. “The country's economic progress and digital modernisation have led to increased digitisation in various sectors, which has caught the attention of cyber-criminals who seek financial benefits and access to sensitive data. Additionally, India's global prominence and intricate political and geopolitical relationships make it a prime target for attacks motivated by politics, espionage, or the disruption of critical infrastructure. Government initiatives and the collection of vast amounts of personal data have made the systems enticing targets,” he told WION. India’s healthcare sector a constant target? Why is health-related data so critical? A nationwide initiative to digitise medical data was launched in September 2021, and as of now, more than 173,000 hospitals have enrolled with it. In accordance with medical records kept by hospitals on their own servers or in cloud storage, the programme allocates patient numbers that are linked to those records. “Healthcare data is a prime target for cyber-criminals due to its immense value and inherent vulnerabilities. Firstly, healthcare data contains a plethora of sensitive information that can be exploited for illicit purposes. Personally identifiable information (PII) like names, addresses, Aadhar, and insurance details can be illicitly traded on the black market for identity theft or used in fraudulent financial activities. Furthermore, medical records and health information hold significant worth as they can be leveraged for fraudulent billing, acquiring prescription drugs, or even extorting individuals with sensitive health conditions. The high value attached to healthcare data makes it an enticing objective for cyber-criminals seeking financial gain or other malicious intentions,” explains Dr Prabhu G. He further adds that healthcare systems are “particularly appealing” to hackers because they often possess weaker security measures compared to other industries. The healthcare sector traditionally prioritises patient care and operational efficiency over robust cybersecurity, leaving vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit. Outdated software, legacy systems, and inadequate investments in cyber security infrastructure render healthcare organisations more susceptible to attacks. Also watch | Second malware attack at AIIMS, New Delhi Digitalisation and the risk of cyber-crimes As per industry estimates, 2022 was India's worst year to date for cyber-attacks, an issue that has only become worse with rising digitalisation. “The process of digitalisation heightens the vulnerability to cyber crime as it expands the attack surface through interconnected systems, adds complexity to IT infrastructure, involves the accumulation of valuable data, increases connectivity, and witnesses the continuous evolution of cyber threats. This combination of factors grants cybercriminals numerous avenues to exploit weaknesses, pilfer sensitive information, disrupt operations, and inflict financial and reputational harm,” Dr Prabhu G said. Way forward Technology usage is accelerating, which will lead to an increase in cyber-attack frequency and intensity. How can organisations curb the risk of a cyber-attack in that case? “To bridge the gap and address the challenges posed by cyber-crime, it is essential to enhance collaboration between government agencies, private sector organisations, and cyber-security experts, while also prioritising robust cyber-security measures, education and training programmes, adequate resources and investment, legislation and regulation, international cooperation, continuous monitoring and incident response capabilities, and specific cyber-security awareness initiatives in sectors like healthcare. By taking these comprehensive steps, we can work towards a safer digital landscape, mitigate cyber threats, protect sensitive data, and foster a collective defence against cyber-criminals,” Dr Prabhu G explains. The most significant issue, notwithstanding India's security measures, is the ability of the criminals to penetrate the Indian cyber-security system, regardless of whether or not these attacks result in data or financial loss. Therefore, it is imperative to implement the digital India Act. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | Digital India and the need to beef up cyber-security in healthcare

<p>Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has initiated the rolling out of its paid verification subscription in India. The same can be purchased after paying ₹699 ($8.47)&nbsp;on iOS and Android. Meta has also said that it is planning to introduce a web purchase option for ₹599 ($7.26) a month soon.</p>

<p>"We’re expanding our test of Meta Verified to India after seeing good results from our early testing in several countries globally," the tech giant said.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Meta Verified?</strong></h2>

<p>Meta Verified is a new subscription package that includes account verification with government ID, impersonation protections, and account support, as reported by the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after Elon Musk's Twitter rolled out Twitter Blue, a paid subscription at a monthly subscription of ₹900 ($10.90) for mobile, ₹650 ($7.87) for the website, which offered the coveted blue checkmark.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the paid subscription offer?</strong></h2>

<p>A verified badge verifies your entity and that your account has been authenticated with a government ID. The identification is of value as it is often associated with notability. Additionally, it offers protection from impersonation with the help of account monitoring for impersonators who might target people, Meta claims. At the moment, help when you need it for common account issues is available in English only, but Meta says it will soon be available in Hindi too.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-sets-up-task-force-to-probe-claims-of-instagram-hosting-trade-of-child-sex-abuse-materials-reports-602038">Instagram 'most important platform' for child sex abuse networks: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Will the blue tick on Instagram and Facebook go away?</strong></h2>

<p>When Twitter rolled out its Twitter Blue subscription that offered a verification badge, it removed all the other legacy blue tick marks. Although it restored it for a select group of users for free. However, Meta has decided to retain verified badges that were granted previously based on existing criteria. “Any previously verified account will maintain its status on Instagram and Facebook for free,” CEO Zuckerberg said on his official Instagram broadcast channel.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Justin Trudeau accuses tech giants of using bullying tactics</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/justin-trudeau-accuses-tech-giants-of-using-bullying-tactics-601965/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Five critical points about&nbsp;Meta Verification</strong></h2>

<p>- &nbsp;In a few cases, subscribers may be required to submit a selfie video as part of the authentication process.</p>

<p>- The rollout process began on Wednesday (June 7) and will be open to all who meet the eligibility criteria over the next few weeks.</p>

<p>- Businesses are not eligible to apply for Meta Verified at this stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>- People interested in purchasing on the web can sign up for the waitlist through the Facebook web Account Center and will be notified when web purchasing is available.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has initiated the rolling out of its paid verification subscription in India. The same can be purchased after paying ₹699 ($8.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has initiated the rolling out of its paid verification subscription in India. The same can be purchased after paying ₹699 ($8.47) on iOS and Android. Meta has also said that it is planning to introduce a web purchase option for ₹599 ($7.26) a month soon. "We’re expanding our test of Meta Verified to India after seeing good results from our early testing in several countries globally," the tech giant said. What is Meta Verified? Meta Verified is a new subscription package that includes account verification with government ID, impersonation protections, and account support, as reported by the Hindustan Times. This comes after Elon Musk's Twitter rolled out Twitter Blue, a paid subscription at a monthly subscription of ₹900 ($10.90) for mobile, ₹650 ($7.87) for the website, which offered the coveted blue checkmark. What does the paid subscription offer? A verified badge verifies your entity and that your account has been authenticated with a government ID. The identification is of value as it is often associated with notability. Additionally, it offers protection from impersonation with the help of account monitoring for impersonators who might target people, Meta claims. At the moment, help when you need it for common account issues is available in English only, but Meta says it will soon be available in Hindi too. Also read | Instagram 'most important platform' for child sex abuse networks: Report Will the blue tick on Instagram and Facebook go away? When Twitter rolled out its Twitter Blue subscription that offered a verification badge, it removed all the other legacy blue tick marks. Although it restored it for a select group of users for free. However, Meta has decided to retain verified badges that were granted previously based on existing criteria. “Any previously verified account will maintain its status on Instagram and Facebook for free,” CEO Zuckerberg said on his official Instagram broadcast channel. Also watch | Justin Trudeau accuses tech giants of using bullying tactics Five critical points about Meta Verification - In a few cases, subscribers may be required to submit a selfie video as part of the authentication process. - The rollout process began on Wednesday (June 7) and will be open to all who meet the eligibility criteria over the next few weeks. - Businesses are not eligible to apply for Meta Verified at this stage. - People interested in purchasing on the web can sign up for the waitlist through the Facebook web Account Center and will be notified when web purchasing is available. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta launches paid verification subscription in India: What does it entail?

While briefing media on the completion of nine years of the Modi government, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar said that the world today looks at India as a development partner and India is playing the role of narrative shaper.

World sees India as a development partner, economic collaborator, says EAM Jaishankar

<p>At an altitude of 15,000 feet above sea level, India's highest herbal garden has been set up in Phobrang village in Leh, Ladakh. Earlier, the herbal garden located at Badrinath, Uttarakhand held the record of being the highest herbal garden in India. The garden located in the middle of the barren mountains of the Leh region has become a site to visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The initiative of setting up the herbal garden in the region was taken by&nbsp;religious and spiritual leader,&nbsp;founder and chairman of "Go Green Go Organic"&nbsp;Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche. He runs the organisation mostly working on the environmental and biodiversity conservation of mass plantations in Ladakh and other Himalayan regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The garden is a collaboration between the 'Go green go Organic' and the local authorities of the region. The major support for the garden was given by the Councillor of the Chushul constituency, Konchok Stanzin, who is also the chairman of the High-Altitude Herbal Garden. The authorities believe that the herbal garden will help in the well-being of the environment, ecology, biodiversity and mankind.</p>

<p>“It also aims to conserve rare species and maintain the flora and ecological significance. The saplings and seeds of medicinal plants have been sown. The medicinal plants are of high importance for the Buddhists. These medicinal plants are used for different treatments in Ladakh and Tibet. These rare medical plants are only grown in higher altitudes. A specific group of plants, like herbs or medicinal plants, have been planted. Apart from medicinal uses, these plants also hold great cultural and religious importance,” said Dr Konchok Dorjey, the vice chairman of the herbal garden, who is also an expert on medicinal plants in the region.</p>

<p>The authorities in the Leh region are proud that India's Highest herbal garden now is in the Ladakh region. They are hoping to create an advanced research centre at the location, too. Experts say that the garden will have a lot of purpose for future projects in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''These planted saplings and seeds are taken care of by the people of the closest village and the aim is to be used for research purposes. This garden has taken over the herbal garden located at Badrinath Uttarakhand at an altitude of 11,000 feet, thus becoming India's highest-located herbal garden. The medicinal plants are perennial plants. These plants can even survive minus 30 cold conditions. The maximum temperature they require is 20 to 25 degrees Celsius,"&nbsp;said Dr Konchok Dorjey, the vice chairman of the herbal garden, who is also an expert on medicinal plants in the region.</p>

<p>This project could be a game changer for the coldest place in India, as the region hardly sees any plantations due to the subzero temperatures.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


At an altitude of 15,000 feet above sea level, India's highest herbal garden has been set up in Phobrang village in Leh, Ladakh. Earlier, the herbal garden located at Badrinath, Uttarakhand held the record of being the highest herbal garden in India.

At an altitude of 15,000 feet above sea level, India's highest herbal garden has been set up in Phobrang village in Leh, Ladakh. Earlier, the herbal garden located at Badrinath, Uttarakhand held the record of being the highest herbal garden in India. The garden located in the middle of the barren mountains of the Leh region has become a site to visit. The initiative of setting up the herbal garden in the region was taken by religious and spiritual leader, founder and chairman of "Go Green Go Organic" Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche. He runs the organisation mostly working on the environmental and biodiversity conservation of mass plantations in Ladakh and other Himalayan regions. The garden is a collaboration between the 'Go green go Organic' and the local authorities of the region. The major support for the garden was given by the Councillor of the Chushul constituency, Konchok Stanzin, who is also the chairman of the High-Altitude Herbal Garden. The authorities believe that the herbal garden will help in the well-being of the environment, ecology, biodiversity and mankind. “It also aims to conserve rare species and maintain the flora and ecological significance. The saplings and seeds of medicinal plants have been sown. The medicinal plants are of high importance for the Buddhists. These medicinal plants are used for different treatments in Ladakh and Tibet. These rare medical plants are only grown in higher altitudes. A specific group of plants, like herbs or medicinal plants, have been planted. Apart from medicinal uses, these plants also hold great cultural and religious importance,” said Dr Konchok Dorjey, the vice chairman of the herbal garden, who is also an expert on medicinal plants in the region. The authorities in the Leh region are proud that India's Highest herbal garden now is in the Ladakh region. They are hoping to create an advanced research centre at the location, too. Experts say that the garden will have a lot of purpose for future projects in the region. ''These planted saplings and seeds are taken care of by the people of the closest village and the aim is to be used for research purposes. This garden has taken over the herbal garden located at Badrinath Uttarakhand at an altitude of 11,000 feet, thus becoming India's highest-located herbal garden. The medicinal plants are perennial plants. These plants can even survive minus 30 cold conditions. The maximum temperature they require is 20 to 25 degrees Celsius," said Dr Konchok Dorjey, the vice chairman of the herbal garden, who is also an expert on medicinal plants in the region. This project could be a game changer for the coldest place in India, as the region hardly sees any plantations due to the subzero temperatures. 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 highest herbal garden set up in Phobrang village of Leh

india

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