Relationship between one of the largest countries in the world and one of the smallest is quite cordial. India and Maldives are neighbours sharing a maritime border. Both nations share ethnic, linguistic, religious & commercial links steeped in antiquity. Maldives is one of India's key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean region. India is now handing over patrol vessels and landing craft to the Maldives as gifts.

Why is India handing over patrol vessels and landing craft to the Maldives as gifts?

<p>The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017.</p>

<p>According to the data released by Union Finance Ministry on Monday, the GST collected in April 2023 is up 12 per cent from last year. Compared to last month, the latest GST collections figure is up 16.8 per cent. In April last year, around Rs 1.68 trillion was collected.</p>

<p>Of the 1.87 trillion rupees collected, Rs 38.4 billion came from the central GST (CGST), the state GST contributed Rs. 47 billion, while the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) accounted for Rs 12 billion, including Rs 9 billion collected on import of goods.</p>

<p>The government has settled&nbsp;Rs 45.8 billion to CGST and Rs. 37.9 billion to SGST from IGST.</p>

<p>The total revenue of the Centre and the states in the month of April 2023 after the regular settlement is Rs. 84.3 billion for CGST and Rs. 85.3 billion for SGST.</p>

<p>“The revenues for the month of April 2023 are 12 per cent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year,” the ministry said.</p>

<p>April 2023 saw the highest-ever tax collection on a single day on April 20. A sum of Rs 68 billion crore was paid through 9,80,000 transactions on that day. The highest single-day payment last year (on the same date) was Rs 57 billion through 9,60,000 transactions.</p>

<p>The ministry said that the number of e-way bills generated in March 2023 was 90 million, which is 11 per cent higher than the 81 million e-way bills generated in February 2023.</p>

<p>Commenting on the GST numbers, Assocham President Ajay Singh said that the highest-ever collection in April marks an excellent beginning of fiscal 2023-24.</p>

<p>"The GST numbers are indicative of robust growth of the Indian economy, on the back of a strong pick-up in consumer demand," he said. Assocham is a non-governmental trade association and advocacy group.</p>

<p>GST came into force on July 1, 2017, subsuming a plethora of indirect taxes.</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" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017.

The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017. According to the data released by Union Finance Ministry on Monday, the GST collected in April 2023 is up 12 per cent from last year. Compared to last month, the latest GST collections figure is up 16.8 per cent. In April last year, around Rs 1.68 trillion was collected. Of the 1.87 trillion rupees collected, Rs 38.4 billion came from the central GST (CGST), the state GST contributed Rs. 47 billion, while the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) accounted for Rs 12 billion, including Rs 9 billion collected on import of goods. The government has settled Rs 45.8 billion to CGST and Rs. 37.9 billion to SGST from IGST. The total revenue of the Centre and the states in the month of April 2023 after the regular settlement is Rs. 84.3 billion for CGST and Rs. 85.3 billion for SGST. “The revenues for the month of April 2023 are 12 per cent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year,” the ministry said. April 2023 saw the highest-ever tax collection on a single day on April 20. A sum of Rs 68 billion crore was paid through 9,80,000 transactions on that day. The highest single-day payment last year (on the same date) was Rs 57 billion through 9,60,000 transactions. The ministry said that the number of e-way bills generated in March 2023 was 90 million, which is 11 per cent higher than the 81 million e-way bills generated in February 2023. Commenting on the GST numbers, Assocham President Ajay Singh said that the highest-ever collection in April marks an excellent beginning of fiscal 2023-24. "The GST numbers are indicative of robust growth of the Indian economy, on the back of a strong pick-up in consumer demand," he said. Assocham is a non-governmental trade association and advocacy group. GST came into force on July 1, 2017, subsuming a plethora of indirect taxes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian govt collects record $23 billion in GST revenues in April 2023

<p>A tourist vehicle&nbsp;driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media.</p>

<p>The incident happened early on Wednesday morning (April 27), close to Jim Corbett National Park. The tiger is seen in the video storming towards the tourist vehicle after emerging from the bushes&nbsp;and growling aggressively at the tourists.</p>

<p>The driver of the gypsy was detained on Friday (April 29)&nbsp;for provoking the wild cat, according to Indian Forest Service (IFS) official Susanta Nanda. According to the forest official's tweet, he has been arrested under the Wildlife Protection Act.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Driver of this gypsy has been arrested under Wildlife Protection Act. <a href="https://t.co/6rfi8l3LHY">pic.twitter.com/6rfi8l3LHY</a></p>
— Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) <a href="https://twitter.com/susantananda3/status/1651963902966771717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>As seen in the video, the tiger&nbsp;hides out off the road behind some bushes&nbsp;and appears irritated. One of the tourists can be heard screaming at the tiger in the background. The visitors and the car remain stationary as they use their cameras to photograph the tiger.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uttarakhand-driver-accused-of-provoking-a-tiger-in-jim-corbett-national-park-india-587786/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The tiger then leaps out from under the bushes and moves towards the car. Immediately after, the tourists panic and&nbsp;the car begins to move backward. But the enraged tiger starts pursuing the gypsy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tiger finally stops growling at the end of the video and retreats into the forest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-elephant-infamous-for-raiding-rice-shops-and-killing-people-shifted-to-tiger-reserve-587812">Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban'</a></p>

<p>More than 88,000 people had watched the video and hundreds had commented on it. Many users expressed their rage at tourists for disobeying the law while visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sensitising the visitors about habits and habitats of animals is very important as we have less space for wildlife and more people are entering their space. Nature guides have a very important role in this," wrote one user. "The safari numbers needs to be curtailed - daily basis and also some weeks of no safari," said another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another user&nbsp;commented, “Honestly in Jim Corbett, the drivers flout a lot of the rules. I have seen people giving the drivers extra money to take their gypsies deeper into the forest to increase the chances of sighting a tiger, or sometimes even carrying meat or flesh with them to attract the felines.”</p>

<h2><strong>Can humans and tigers coexist?</strong></h2>

<p>Five villages of the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran district of Bihar, according to PTI reports, were to be converted into a model human-carnivore coexistence zone, with the state government collaborating&nbsp;with the Wildlife Trust of India, a Nepalese organisation and a UK-based zoo for the project.</p>

<p>As per officials who spoke to PTI, the three-year project was planned to take shape&nbsp;in 2023.</p>

<p>The Valmiki Tiger Reserve made&nbsp;headlines in 2022 after&nbsp;the shooting death&nbsp;of a man-eating tiger in October that had previously killed nine humans and numerous domestic&nbsp;animals.</p>

<p>According to&nbsp;P K Gupta, Bihar's Chief Wildlife Warden,&nbsp;the reserve is essential to ensuring that tiger populations are genetically healthy.</p>

<p>Wildlife specialists claim that tigers and other large creatures frequently use the forest corridors that connect India and Nepal.</p>

<p>Therefore, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority's instructions, the state government has implemented a number of steps to safeguard the habitats of big cats and maintain their population, Gupta added.&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>


A tourist vehicle driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media.

A tourist vehicle driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media. The incident happened early on Wednesday morning (April 27), close to Jim Corbett National Park. The tiger is seen in the video storming towards the tourist vehicle after emerging from the bushes and growling aggressively at the tourists. The driver of the gypsy was detained on Friday (April 29) for provoking the wild cat, according to Indian Forest Service (IFS) official Susanta Nanda. According to the forest official's tweet, he has been arrested under the Wildlife Protection Act. Driver of this gypsy has been arrested under Wildlife Protection Act. pic.twitter.com/6rfi8l3LHY — Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) April 28, 2023 × As seen in the video, the tiger hides out off the road behind some bushes and appears irritated. One of the tourists can be heard screaming at the tiger in the background. The visitors and the car remain stationary as they use their cameras to photograph the tiger. WATCH | Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park The tiger then leaps out from under the bushes and moves towards the car. Immediately after, the tourists panic and the car begins to move backward. But the enraged tiger starts pursuing the gypsy. The tiger finally stops growling at the end of the video and retreats into the forest. ALSO READ | Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban' More than 88,000 people had watched the video and hundreds had commented on it. Many users expressed their rage at tourists for disobeying the law while visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. "Sensitising the visitors about habits and habitats of animals is very important as we have less space for wildlife and more people are entering their space. Nature guides have a very important role in this," wrote one user. "The safari numbers needs to be curtailed - daily basis and also some weeks of no safari," said another. Another user commented, “Honestly in Jim Corbett, the drivers flout a lot of the rules. I have seen people giving the drivers extra money to take their gypsies deeper into the forest to increase the chances of sighting a tiger, or sometimes even carrying meat or flesh with them to attract the felines.” Can humans and tigers coexist? Five villages of the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran district of Bihar, according to PTI reports, were to be converted into a model human-carnivore coexistence zone, with the state government collaborating with the Wildlife Trust of India, a Nepalese organisation and a UK-based zoo for the project. As per officials who spoke to PTI, the three-year project was planned to take shape in 2023. The Valmiki Tiger Reserve made headlines in 2022 after the shooting death of a man-eating tiger in October that had previously killed nine humans and numerous domestic animals. According to P K Gupta, Bihar's Chief Wildlife Warden, the reserve is essential to ensuring that tiger populations are genetically healthy. Wildlife specialists claim that tigers and other large creatures frequently use the forest corridors that connect India and Nepal. Therefore, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority's instructions, the state government has implemented a number of steps to safeguard the habitats of big cats and maintain their population, Gupta added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Driver held at Jim Corbett National Park after tiger charges at tourists

As Russia faces sanctions, India is emerging as Europe’s largest supplier of refined fuel. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

India, Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels

Changing climatic conditions will lead to a surge in the spread of vector-borne and infectious diseases across India, say scientists. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

Climate change increasing risk of viruses in India

India's first climate refugee resettlement colony is set to be built in the state of Odisha. The colony is set up for the people of the state who were displaced due to coastal erosion and climate change. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

India's Odisha to build first resettlement colony

Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool for fraudsters to commit scams. The latest is an AI enabled fake voice scam. Scammers are using artificial intelligence to sound more like family members in distress. The main part is that people are falling for it and being scammed.

AI scams mimicking voices are on the rise

India has outnumbered China not only in population but in the number of students studying in the U.S. An annual report released by US Immigration and Custom Enforcement shows this. For details, watch video.

Number of Indian students in the US surpassed that of China : Report

<p>India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What are they?</strong></h2>

<p>Under the new regulations, all telecom operations across India will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) spam filters in their call and message services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has instructed telecom companies to stop the transmission of promotional calls to mobile numbers with ten digits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the telecom regulatory body has asked the telecom operators to integrate a Call ID function which will show the caller's identity and image on the mobile phone display, following which the customers will be able to decipher the caller.</p>

<h2><strong>India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What they mean?</strong></h2>

<p>These Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters are meant to restrict the incessant flow of spam calls and messages that millions of handset owners in India receive for the lack of regulatory rules on it.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-pressing-mobile-manufacturers-to-release-5g-updates-524464">Indian government pressing mobile manufacturers to release 5G updates</a></strong></p>

<p>With these Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters in place, the handset will detect and prevent fraudulent communications from a number of sources.</p>

<p>The telecom operators were reportedly hesitant to implement AI filters. This was because of the privacy issues that kept the regulatory mechanism on the sidelines.</p>

<h2><strong>Which telecom operators have announced the implementation of new rules?</strong></h2>

<p>Bharti Airtel announced the implementation of AI filters into its services. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio is said to be working on deploying the filters and is expected to roll out the services in the immediate future.</p>

<p>Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are India's top two telecom operators.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India@75: Story of India’s telecom revolution</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/india75-story-of-indias-telecom-revolution-505244/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The communication from Vodafone Idea (VI), and MTNL on the implementation of new telecom regulatory rules is yet to come.</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>


India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023.

India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023. India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What are they? Under the new regulations, all telecom operations across India will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) spam filters in their call and message services. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has instructed telecom companies to stop the transmission of promotional calls to mobile numbers with ten digits. Furthermore, the telecom regulatory body has asked the telecom operators to integrate a Call ID function which will show the caller's identity and image on the mobile phone display, following which the customers will be able to decipher the caller. India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What they mean? These Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters are meant to restrict the incessant flow of spam calls and messages that millions of handset owners in India receive for the lack of regulatory rules on it. ALSO READ | Indian government pressing mobile manufacturers to release 5G updates With these Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters in place, the handset will detect and prevent fraudulent communications from a number of sources. The telecom operators were reportedly hesitant to implement AI filters. This was because of the privacy issues that kept the regulatory mechanism on the sidelines. Which telecom operators have announced the implementation of new rules? Bharti Airtel announced the implementation of AI filters into its services. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio is said to be working on deploying the filters and is expected to roll out the services in the immediate future. Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are India's top two telecom operators. ALSO WATCH | India@75: Story of India’s telecom revolution × The communication from Vodafone Idea (VI), and MTNL on the implementation of new telecom regulatory rules is yet to come. 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 telecom operators to deploy AI to fight spam calls and messages

Chinese military activity has been detected in the Indian Ocean, according to a report it is now being said that a Chinese Intelligence Facility in Myanmar's Great Coco Island that is just about 55 kilometres from India's Andaman & Nicobar islands has sprung up.

Chinese military facility found near India, says report; Beijing denies construction claims | WION

<p>The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&amp;K.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood&nbsp;</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/blood-man-of-kashmir-the-man-who-donated-182-pints-of-blood-587430/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</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="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>


The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.

The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources. The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&K. India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema. ALSO READ | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently. WATCH | Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood × The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages. The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them. (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.

India blocks 14 mobile messenger apps being used by terrorist groups

<p>Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "Mission Arikkomban" | Taskforce located the rogue elephant "Arikkomban" earlier today in Chinnakanal, Kerala. It was later captured and shifted to another location. <a href="https://t.co/iRa7sjNAsW">pic.twitter.com/iRa7sjNAsW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1652337522385768449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kerala is so beautiful and enchanting. 💜👍<br />
<br />
Watch the send off for 'Arikomban', the elephant who created fear for local people in Chinnakanal, Idukki from Aanaerangal Dam to Periyar forest wildlife reserve near Kumili in Kerala tonight. <a href="https://t.co/ZZJ2ocqjPX">pic.twitter.com/ZZJ2ocqjPX</a></p>
— GEORGE KALLIVAYALIL (@KALLIVAYALIL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KALLIVAYALIL/status/1652359607459926017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is Konni Surendran,kunki elephant of Kerala who contained dangerous <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Arikomban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Arikomban</a><br />
<br />
Kunkis are specially trained to contain Rouge wild elephants which are dangerous to people<br />
<br />
K.Govt got Surendran when he was only 2 years old when his mother died on 1999,he got training from TN <a href="https://t.co/0xIBVAnGCz">pic.twitter.com/0xIBVAnGCz</a></p>
— Godfather 💙 (@orgasamist) <a href="https://twitter.com/orgasamist/status/1652928044502331392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Government calls the mission a success</strong></h2>

<p>The Kerala government has called this mission a success, and it is monitoring the 30-year-old elephant’s movements through a radio collar attached to it. It lived near the Devikulam forest range in the Idukki district for decades. However, locals in the area were demanding Arikomban’s removal from the site for months now. According to the government, Arikomban has killed seven people so far, apart from sporadically&nbsp;raiding local rice shops and causing a menace to the shopkeepers.</p>

<h2><strong>Move met by resentment from animal welfare associations</strong></h2>

<p>According to animal welfare activists, the issue is related to the wider debate around human-wildlife conflict, which can’t be taken care of by simply getting rid of the animals. Indian Express also quoted local sources to claim that the elephant became hostile only after human population in the area grew massively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu</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-at-least-5-elephants-died-of-electrocution-in-tamil-nadu-in-20-days-581133/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The elephant began damaging buildings and concrete houses to forage for rice, and that’s how the years-old conflict between Arikomban and tribals started. To solve the issue, the Kerala Forest Department initially wanted to capture Arikomban and make him a permanent captive. However, the animal welfare organisations vehemently opposed the suggestion and moved to Kerala High Court.</p>

<p>The high court then formed a five-member committee to resolve the issue, which recommended the elephant be moved to another location where such human-wildlife conflict can be avoided. The committee suggested the authorities shift the elephant to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in the Palakkad district. However, this sparked a protest by locals in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, it was decided that Arikomban will be shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-at-least-5-elephants-died-of-electrocution-in-tamil-nadu-in-20-days-581133">Also Read |&nbsp;India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu in 20 days</a></strong></p>

<p>The government had formed a task force of 150 officials to capture and track Arikomban. It was tranquillised and then transported to the tiger reserve in a truck. The authorities had imposed a curfew in the area to stymie protests by locals. However, as per a report by BBC, the arrival of the elephant was met with cheers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Animal welfare activists wanted to keep the elephant in its original habitat. However, later they realised the people in the area had become hostile, and the problem could only be solved if the elephant is permanently relocated. &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="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. #WATCH | "Mission Arikkomban" | Taskforce located the rogue elephant "Arikkomban" earlier today in Chinnakanal, Kerala. It was later captured and shifted to another location. pic.twitter.com/iRa7sjNAsW — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2023 × Kerala is so beautiful and enchanting. 💜👍 Watch the send off for 'Arikomban', the elephant who created fear for local people in Chinnakanal, Idukki from Aanaerangal Dam to Periyar forest wildlife reserve near Kumili in Kerala tonight. pic.twitter.com/ZZJ2ocqjPX — GEORGE KALLIVAYALIL (@KALLIVAYALIL) April 29, 2023 × This is Konni Surendran,kunki elephant of Kerala who contained dangerous #Arikomban Kunkis are specially trained to contain Rouge wild elephants which are dangerous to people K.Govt got Surendran when he was only 2 years old when his mother died on 1999,he got training from TN pic.twitter.com/0xIBVAnGCz — Godfather 💙 (@orgasamist) May 1, 2023 × Government calls the mission a success The Kerala government has called this mission a success, and it is monitoring the 30-year-old elephant’s movements through a radio collar attached to it. It lived near the Devikulam forest range in the Idukki district for decades. However, locals in the area were demanding Arikomban’s removal from the site for months now. According to the government, Arikomban has killed seven people so far, apart from sporadically raiding local rice shops and causing a menace to the shopkeepers. Move met by resentment from animal welfare associations According to animal welfare activists, the issue is related to the wider debate around human-wildlife conflict, which can’t be taken care of by simply getting rid of the animals. Indian Express also quoted local sources to claim that the elephant became hostile only after human population in the area grew massively. Watch: India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu × The elephant began damaging buildings and concrete houses to forage for rice, and that’s how the years-old conflict between Arikomban and tribals started. To solve the issue, the Kerala Forest Department initially wanted to capture Arikomban and make him a permanent captive. However, the animal welfare organisations vehemently opposed the suggestion and moved to Kerala High Court. The high court then formed a five-member committee to resolve the issue, which recommended the elephant be moved to another location where such human-wildlife conflict can be avoided. The committee suggested the authorities shift the elephant to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in the Palakkad district. However, this sparked a protest by locals in the area. Later, it was decided that Arikomban will be shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve. Also Read | India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu in 20 days The government had formed a task force of 150 officials to capture and track Arikomban. It was tranquillised and then transported to the tiger reserve in a truck. The authorities had imposed a curfew in the area to stymie protests by locals. However, as per a report by BBC, the arrival of the elephant was met with cheers. Animal welfare activists wanted to keep the elephant in its original habitat. However, later they realised the people in the area had become hostile, and the problem could only be solved if the elephant is permanently relocated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban'

<p>A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes&nbsp;and ration shops&nbsp;to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the local Malayalam language, 'Arikomban' stands for 'rice tusker'.</p>

<p>Dr Arun Zachariah, the senior veterinary officer who led the team of forest officials behind this capture, said, “Arikomban was brought to Kumali in the Idukki district around 121 kilometres away from Chinnakkanal. Section 144 was declared in the Kumali area and restricted electricity supply on the way it was transported.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another official said that the elephant has been radio-collared and that the signals from it will be monitored from the tiger reserve.</p>

<p>"We are getting signals from the radio collar. His location will be monitored from the tiger reserve. He is very healthy," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy</a></strong></p>

<p>Sharing details about the 'Arikomban' mission, a forest official said that on the first day of the operation, their team 'wasn't lucky' and that on the second day, they were able to tranquilise the tusker after another elephant, who was Arikomban's competitor, brought the rice-favouring elephant before the forest officials.</p>

<p>Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, on April 19, directed the forest officials to discover a new place for shifting the rice-eating tusker after it created destruction in the Idukki district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kerala High Court asked the state government on April 20 to relocate the wild elephant within a week and stated that if the tusker is not relocated within a week, it will be transferred to Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-gets-its-first-cable-stayed-rail-bridge-with-96-cables-587599">Watch | India gets its first 'cable-stayed rail bridge' with 96 cables</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking to reports, the Kerala forest minister said, “As a government, we have to act according to the decisions of the courts of justice. We will not shy away from it. That would not be good practice. It is not a democratic practice. The officials of the forest department have been directed to find a new place to shift the Arikomban. They will give it by tomorrow morning. It will inform the High Court which is the best proposal”.</p>

<p>“We do not intend to prolong it indefinitely. Had elephant lovers not questioned the government’s decision, a solution could have been found by the 12th of last month. Unfortunately, it couldn’t,” he added.</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" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes and ration shops to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve.

A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes and ration shops to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the local Malayalam language, 'Arikomban' stands for 'rice tusker'. Dr Arun Zachariah, the senior veterinary officer who led the team of forest officials behind this capture, said, “Arikomban was brought to Kumali in the Idukki district around 121 kilometres away from Chinnakkanal. Section 144 was declared in the Kumali area and restricted electricity supply on the way it was transported.” Another official said that the elephant has been radio-collared and that the signals from it will be monitored from the tiger reserve. "We are getting signals from the radio collar. His location will be monitored from the tiger reserve. He is very healthy," he said. Also read | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy Sharing details about the 'Arikomban' mission, a forest official said that on the first day of the operation, their team 'wasn't lucky' and that on the second day, they were able to tranquilise the tusker after another elephant, who was Arikomban's competitor, brought the rice-favouring elephant before the forest officials. Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, on April 19, directed the forest officials to discover a new place for shifting the rice-eating tusker after it created destruction in the Idukki district. The Kerala High Court asked the state government on April 20 to relocate the wild elephant within a week and stated that if the tusker is not relocated within a week, it will be transferred to Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary. Also read | Watch | India gets its first 'cable-stayed rail bridge' with 96 cables Talking to reports, the Kerala forest minister said, “As a government, we have to act according to the decisions of the courts of justice. We will not shy away from it. That would not be good practice. It is not a democratic practice. The officials of the forest department have been directed to find a new place to shift the Arikomban. They will give it by tomorrow morning. It will inform the High Court which is the best proposal”. “We do not intend to prolong it indefinitely. Had elephant lovers not questioned the government’s decision, a solution could have been found by the 12th of last month. Unfortunately, it couldn’t,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian forest officials tranquilise, capture rogue rice-raiding tusker 'Arikomban'

NSA Ajit Doval and his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani held extensive conversations on a variety of topics on Monday in Tehran, with a focus on the two nations' relations on the political, economic, and security fronts. The National Security Adviser is travelling to Iran for a day. According to Iran's IRNA news agency, the two officials talked on key regional and worldwide developments as well as economic, political, and security matters involving the two countries.

NSA Ajit Doval visits Iran, holds talks with Iranian counterpart

<p>The Indian Supreme Court in New Delhi held that it could grant divorce on the grounds of "irretrievable breakdown" of marriage by invoking its special powers under Article 32 of Indian constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Article 32 of Indian constitution deals with "remedies for enforcement of rights."</p>

<p>A constitution bench of Supreme Court, which is meant to assess case[s] involving a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, gave the landmark judgement on Monday. The Constitution Bench comprised of Justices SK Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, AS Oka, Vikram Nath, and JK Maheshwari.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-forced-to-separate-from-parents-by-wife-amounts-to-mental-cruelty-is-grounds-for-divorce-indian-court-581280">Forcing husband to leave parents is mental cruelty, ground for divorce: Indian court</a></strong></p>

<p>The bench concluded that such an exercise of power "will not contravene the principles of public policy."</p>

<p>The Indian top court also held that it reserves the right to waive the six-month waiting period, the period after which a couple seeking divorce by mutual consent can currently approach the court to proceed towards legal cessation of marriage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The landmark legal development comes after a two-judge Supreme Court bench in New Delhi held that irretrievable breakdown of a marriage can be read as amounting to cruelty under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This, the court had held, can be a ground for divorce.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;</strong><strong>Nobody to blame! What is the new no-fault divorce?</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/nobody-to-blame-what-is-the-new-no-fault-divorce-469497/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The court held that "a marriage, which has broken down irretrievably, in our opinion, spells cruelty to both the parties, as in such a relationship, each party is treating the other with cruelty. It is therefore a ground for dissolution of marriage under Section 13 (1) (a) of the Act."</p>

<p>It said that though "irretrievable breakdown of a marriage may not be a ground for dissolution of marriage, under the Hindu Marriage Act, but cruelty is".</p>

<p>"A marriage can be dissolved by a decree of divorce, inter alia, on the ground when the other party has, after the solemnisation of the marriage, treated the petitioner with cruelty. In our considered opinion, a marital relationship, which has only become more bitter and acrimonious over the years, does nothing but inflicts cruelty on both the sides. To keep the façade of this broken marriage alive would be doing injustice to both the parties," the Supreme Court said in its April 27 ruling.</p>

<p>India is considered to have the lowest divorce rate globally, estimated to be around 1.1 per cent.</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>


The Indian Supreme Court in New Delhi held that it could grant divorce on the grounds of "irretrievable breakdown" of marriage by invoking its special powers under Article 32 of Indian constitution.

The Indian Supreme Court in New Delhi held that it could grant divorce on the grounds of "irretrievable breakdown" of marriage by invoking its special powers under Article 32 of Indian constitution. Article 32 of Indian constitution deals with "remedies for enforcement of rights." A constitution bench of Supreme Court, which is meant to assess case[s] involving a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, gave the landmark judgement on Monday. The Constitution Bench comprised of Justices SK Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, AS Oka, Vikram Nath, and JK Maheshwari. ALSO READ | Forcing husband to leave parents is mental cruelty, ground for divorce: Indian court The bench concluded that such an exercise of power "will not contravene the principles of public policy." The Indian top court also held that it reserves the right to waive the six-month waiting period, the period after which a couple seeking divorce by mutual consent can currently approach the court to proceed towards legal cessation of marriage. The landmark legal development comes after a two-judge Supreme Court bench in New Delhi held that irretrievable breakdown of a marriage can be read as amounting to cruelty under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This, the court had held, can be a ground for divorce. ALSO WATCH | Nobody to blame! What is the new no-fault divorce? × The court held that "a marriage, which has broken down irretrievably, in our opinion, spells cruelty to both the parties, as in such a relationship, each party is treating the other with cruelty. It is therefore a ground for dissolution of marriage under Section 13 (1) (a) of the Act." It said that though "irretrievable breakdown of a marriage may not be a ground for dissolution of marriage, under the Hindu Marriage Act, but cruelty is". "A marriage can be dissolved by a decree of divorce, inter alia, on the ground when the other party has, after the solemnisation of the marriage, treated the petitioner with cruelty. In our considered opinion, a marital relationship, which has only become more bitter and acrimonious over the years, does nothing but inflicts cruelty on both the sides. To keep the façade of this broken marriage alive would be doing injustice to both the parties," the Supreme Court said in its April 27 ruling. India is considered to have the lowest divorce rate globally, estimated to be around 1.1 per cent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian top court's landmark divorce judgement spotlights marriage's 'irretrievable breakdown'

Record-breaking heatwaves in India last year put 90% of the population at increased risk of going hungry, losing income, or premature death, says a shocking study.

Rising heatwave imperil India's development goals: Study

Spam calls have infiltrated our daily lives. It is an unwanted call that occurs when a person or company calls a large number of people at once. Often, these calls are identified and labelled with a spam risk label. Millions of people are daily inundated by unwanted telemarketing calls. To combat these fake and promotional calls and messages, TRAI is set to implement new rules from May 1.

India's TRAI deploys AI-powered spam filters to curb fake calls & Messages

After a Twitter video of the wildcat growling at the tourist vehicle went viral, a gypsy driver in Uttarakhand was detained for provoking a tiger in the Jim Corbett National Park.

Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park | India

<p>The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Supreme Court was all set to hear a number of pleas contesting the constitutionality of the&nbsp;sedition law under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code.</p>

<p>In recent years, the use of the sedition law in India has become a subject of controversy, with some critics arguing that it is being misused to stifle free speech and dissent. There have been a number of high-profile cases in which individuals, including journalists, activists, and students, have been charged with sedition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-18-dead-dozens-injured-as-tourist-bus-in-mexico-plunges-in-ravine-587657">At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine</a></p>

<p>The consultation process, according to Attorney General R. Venkataramani, is at an advanced level, and he will be seen it before it is presented to Parliament.</p>

<p>He pleaded with the bench, "Kindly post the matter for further hearing after the Monsoon session of Parliament." Gopal Sankaranarayanan, a senior advocate, had requested the bench to form a bench of seven judges to decide the concerns. The bench ruled that even if the case had to be heard by seven judges, a five-judge bench would have to hear it first.</p>

<p>The colonial-era legal code against sedition was placed on pause by the supreme court on 11 May, 2022, pending a "proper" government forum's review of it.</p>

<p>The court also instructed the federal government and the states not to file any new FIRs citing the crime. The top court had decided that in addition to the filing of FIRs, all investigations, trials, and other actions related to the sedition statute across the nation would be put on hold.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-isis-chief-killed-in-syria-says-turkey-president-587671">Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president</a></p>

<p>The bench talked of the necessity to strike a balance between the interests of civil rights and individuals with those of the State, noting that the legislation has come under heavy public criticism for its alleged use as a tool to stifle dissent, notably on social media.</p>

<p>Sedition was added to the penal code in 1890, about 30 years after the IPC was created and 57 years before Independence, and carries a maximum prison sentence of life under Section 124A of the IPC for "creating disaffection towards the government."</p>

<p>Critics of the sedition law argue that it is a colonial-era law that is outdated and incompatible with democratic principles, and that it is being used to suppress dissent and criticism of the government.</p>

<p>Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country, and that it is an important tool in combating various forms of extremism.</p>

<p>A growing number of people have been accused of sedition, including the Maharashtra political couple Navneet and Ravi Rana, novelist Arundhati Roy, student activist Umar Khalid, and journalist Siddique Kappan.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Experts predict AI to be the forefront of 2024 US election campaign</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/experts-predict-ai-to-be-the-forefront-of-2024-us-election-campaign-587648/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Overall, the use of the sedition law in India remains a contentious issue, with ongoing debates about its relevance and appropriateness in a democratic society that values freedom of speech and expression.</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>


The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August.

The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August. This comes as Supreme Court was all set to hear a number of pleas contesting the constitutionality of the sedition law under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code. In recent years, the use of the sedition law in India has become a subject of controversy, with some critics arguing that it is being misused to stifle free speech and dissent. There have been a number of high-profile cases in which individuals, including journalists, activists, and students, have been charged with sedition. Also Read | At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine The consultation process, according to Attorney General R. Venkataramani, is at an advanced level, and he will be seen it before it is presented to Parliament. He pleaded with the bench, "Kindly post the matter for further hearing after the Monsoon session of Parliament." Gopal Sankaranarayanan, a senior advocate, had requested the bench to form a bench of seven judges to decide the concerns. The bench ruled that even if the case had to be heard by seven judges, a five-judge bench would have to hear it first. The colonial-era legal code against sedition was placed on pause by the supreme court on 11 May, 2022, pending a "proper" government forum's review of it. The court also instructed the federal government and the states not to file any new FIRs citing the crime. The top court had decided that in addition to the filing of FIRs, all investigations, trials, and other actions related to the sedition statute across the nation would be put on hold. Also Read | Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president The bench talked of the necessity to strike a balance between the interests of civil rights and individuals with those of the State, noting that the legislation has come under heavy public criticism for its alleged use as a tool to stifle dissent, notably on social media. Sedition was added to the penal code in 1890, about 30 years after the IPC was created and 57 years before Independence, and carries a maximum prison sentence of life under Section 124A of the IPC for "creating disaffection towards the government." Critics of the sedition law argue that it is a colonial-era law that is outdated and incompatible with democratic principles, and that it is being used to suppress dissent and criticism of the government. Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country, and that it is an important tool in combating various forms of extremism. A growing number of people have been accused of sedition, including the Maharashtra political couple Navneet and Ravi Rana, novelist Arundhati Roy, student activist Umar Khalid, and journalist Siddique Kappan. Watch | Experts predict AI to be the forefront of 2024 US election campaign × Overall, the use of the sedition law in India remains a contentious issue, with ongoing debates about its relevance and appropriateness in a democratic society that values freedom of speech and expression. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian SC defers hearing on pleas against sedition law, govt says re-examining at advanced consultation stage

A report indicating potential Chinese intelligence installations near Myanmar's massive Cocoa Island, which is only 55 kilometres from India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands, or another potential Chinese military activity in the Indian Ocean now hangs over India.

Growing Chinese influence in Bay of Bengal

A Reuters report shows India's market regulator has requested an additional six months to finish its investigation into the Adani group. Billionaire Gautam Adani-led Indian empire is alleged of violations of stocks market regulations and regulatory disclosures.

India's Sebi seeks more time to complete Adani probe

Indian authorities on Saturday searched the premises of Bengaluru-based Edtech giant Byju's. Byju's is under the radar for alleged violation of India's foreign exchange laws. Byju Raveendran, the co-founder and CEO, however, denied any wrongdoing.

Indian startup Byju's under radar

<p>India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is set to embark on a visit to Sweden and Brussels next month, where he will engage with several of his counterparts on a range of issues spanning trade to security. The visit will see him participate in the EU's second Indo-Pacific ministerial forum, scheduled to take place in Stockholm on May 13. Several EU member countries have issued their outlooks on the region, where one of the biggest concerns has been China's aggressive actions from the South China Sea to the Himalayas, bordering India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-moscow-to-boost-defence-ties-russias-participation-in-make-in-india-587088">New Delhi, Moscow to boost defence ties, increase Russia's participation in ‘Make in India’</a></p>

<p>The first such meeting was held last year in Paris, hosted by France, and focused on Europe's approach to the Indo-Pacific region. Thirty foreign ministers, including those of Japan and South Korea, participated in last year's Paris meet, but China was not present. The Indo-Pacific region is set to account for 60 per cent of global wealth and three-fifths of the world's population, making it the centre of global attention.</p>

<p>The External Affairs Minister will also travel to Brussels for ministerial meetings related to the India EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), which will focus on digital transformation, green technologies, and trade. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to launch the EU-India Trade and Technology Council last year. Ministerial meetings of the TTC will take place at least once a year, alternating between the EU and India.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | US-India ties: US President Joe Biden to visit India in September | World News | WION</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-ties-us-president-joe-biden-to-visit-india-in-september-world-news-wion-585472/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The establishment of the council is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening the strategic partnership between the EU and India. The EU-India Trade and Technology Council is the second such bilateral forum for the EU and the first one established with any partner for India. The EU and the US launched a TTC in June 2021. Meanwhile, India and the EU will hold the next round of talks on Free Trade negotiations (FTA) in Delhi.</p>

<main>
<section>
<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></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" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is set to embark on a visit to Sweden and Brussels next month, where he will engage with several of his counterparts on a range of issues spanning trade to security.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is set to embark on a visit to Sweden and Brussels next month, where he will engage with several of his counterparts on a range of issues spanning trade to security. The visit will see him participate in the EU's second Indo-Pacific ministerial forum, scheduled to take place in Stockholm on May 13. Several EU member countries have issued their outlooks on the region, where one of the biggest concerns has been China's aggressive actions from the South China Sea to the Himalayas, bordering India. ALSO READ | New Delhi, Moscow to boost defence ties, increase Russia's participation in ‘Make in India’ The first such meeting was held last year in Paris, hosted by France, and focused on Europe's approach to the Indo-Pacific region. Thirty foreign ministers, including those of Japan and South Korea, participated in last year's Paris meet, but China was not present. The Indo-Pacific region is set to account for 60 per cent of global wealth and three-fifths of the world's population, making it the centre of global attention. The External Affairs Minister will also travel to Brussels for ministerial meetings related to the India EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), which will focus on digital transformation, green technologies, and trade. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to launch the EU-India Trade and Technology Council last year. Ministerial meetings of the TTC will take place at least once a year, alternating between the EU and India. WATCH | US-India ties: US President Joe Biden to visit India in September | World News | WION The establishment of the council is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening the strategic partnership between the EU and India. The EU-India Trade and Technology Council is the second such bilateral forum for the EU and the first one established with any partner for India. The EU and the US launched a TTC in June 2021. Meanwhile, India and the EU will hold the next round of talks on Free Trade negotiations (FTA) in Delhi. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Brussels next month

<p>The 100th episode of Indian prime minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme, "Mann Ki Baat," will be broadcast live at the United Nations on April 30. The&nbsp;radio address will air at 11 am IST, which will be 1:30 am Sunday in New York. It will be aired in the UN's Trusteeship Council Chamber, as per PTI reports.</p>

<h2><strong>Historic moment for India</strong></h2>

<p>“Get ready for a historic moment as the 100th episode of PM Modi’s "Mann Ki Baat" is set to go live on April 30th in Trusteeship Council Chamber at @UN HQ!” the Permanent Mission of India to the UN said in a tweet.</p>

<p>“#MannKiBaat has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions to participate in India’s developmental journey,” the Permanent Mission said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Get ready for a historic moment 🎉 as the 100th episode of PM Modi's "Mann Ki Baat"🎙️ is set to go live on April 30th in Trusteeship Council Chamber at <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> HQ!<br />
<br />
📻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions to participate in 🇮🇳’s developmental journey <a href="https://t.co/6ji4t1flmu">pic.twitter.com/6ji4t1flmu</a></p>
— India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/1652037211536105477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The 100th episode of "Mann Ki Baat" will be broadcast for the Indian-American and diaspora community at 1:30 am on Sunday as part of a special celebration hosted by the Indian Consulate General in New York and community organisations.</p>

<p>“Don't miss #MannKiBaatAt100 at 0130 hrs EST on April 30th, 2023! Let us celebrate the landmark 100th episode of #MannKiBaat as Hon’ble @PMOIndia connects with Indians, Indian diaspora and listeners across the world,” the Consulate said in a tweet.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-to-visit-maldives-to-bolster-defence-ties-587408">Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Maldives to bolster defence ties</a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Don't miss <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaatAt100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaatAt100</a> at 0130 hrs EST on April 30th, 2023!<br />
<br />
Let us celebrate the landmark 100th episode of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> as Hon'ble <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> connects with Indians, Indian diaspora and listeners across the world.<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbassyUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbassyUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/OkHYjy637N">https://t.co/OkHYjy637N</a></p>
— India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1652083766850994183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will organise a nationwide conclave called "Mann Ki Baat @100" to mark the milestone episode Sunday,&nbsp;as reported by Outlook India.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Renowned people from various sectors that PM Modi has mentioned in earlier episodes would attend the event. &nbsp;Attendees to the event will share their views and opinions on a variety of issues pertaining to India's progress.<br />
&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The event will also witness the release of two books by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. First a coffee table book on 'Mann Ki Baat@100' and second 'Collective Spirit, Concrete Action' by S.S. Vempati, former CEO of Prasar Bharati.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;J&amp;K's Srinagar hosts model G20 summit: Meeting of young minds across region</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-jks-srinagar-hosts-model-g20-summit-meeting-of-young-minds-across-region-wion-587392/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<h2><strong>What is 'Mann Ki Baat' all about?</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi addresses the nation's citizens on a variety of topics on his radio programme, "Mann Ki Baat." It debuted on October 3, 2014, and it currently airs on the All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan (DD) network at 11 a.m. on the last Sunday of every month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></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>


The 100th episode of Indian prime minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme, "Mann Ki Baat," will be broadcast live at the United Nations on April 30. The radio address will air at 11 am IST, which will be 1:30 am Sunday in New York.

The 100th episode of Indian prime minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme, "Mann Ki Baat," will be broadcast live at the United Nations on April 30. The radio address will air at 11 am IST, which will be 1:30 am Sunday in New York. It will be aired in the UN's Trusteeship Council Chamber, as per PTI reports. Historic moment for India “Get ready for a historic moment as the 100th episode of PM Modi’s "Mann Ki Baat" is set to go live on April 30th in Trusteeship Council Chamber at @UN HQ!” the Permanent Mission of India to the UN said in a tweet. “#MannKiBaat has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions to participate in India’s developmental journey,” the Permanent Mission said. Get ready for a historic moment 🎉 as the 100th episode of PM Modi's "Mann Ki Baat"🎙️ is set to go live on April 30th in Trusteeship Council Chamber at @UN HQ! 📻 #MannKiBaat has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions to participate in 🇮🇳’s developmental journey pic.twitter.com/6ji4t1flmu — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) April 28, 2023 × The 100th episode of "Mann Ki Baat" will be broadcast for the Indian-American and diaspora community at 1:30 am on Sunday as part of a special celebration hosted by the Indian Consulate General in New York and community organisations. “Don't miss #MannKiBaatAt100 at 0130 hrs EST on April 30th, 2023! Let us celebrate the landmark 100th episode of #MannKiBaat as Hon’ble @PMOIndia connects with Indians, Indian diaspora and listeners across the world,” the Consulate said in a tweet. ALSO READ | Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Maldives to bolster defence ties Don't miss #MannKiBaatAt100 at 0130 hrs EST on April 30th, 2023! Let us celebrate the landmark 100th episode of #MannKiBaat as Hon'ble @PMOIndia connects with Indians, Indian diaspora and listeners across the world.@MEAIndia @IndianEmbassyUS @PIB_India https://t.co/OkHYjy637N — India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) April 28, 2023 × Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will organise a nationwide conclave called "Mann Ki Baat @100" to mark the milestone episode Sunday, as reported by Outlook India. Renowned people from various sectors that PM Modi has mentioned in earlier episodes would attend the event. Attendees to the event will share their views and opinions on a variety of issues pertaining to India's progress. The event will also witness the release of two books by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. First a coffee table book on 'Mann Ki Baat@100' and second 'Collective Spirit, Concrete Action' by S.S. Vempati, former CEO of Prasar Bharati. ALSO WATCH | J&K's Srinagar hosts model G20 summit: Meeting of young minds across region What is 'Mann Ki Baat' all about? Prime Minister Modi addresses the nation's citizens on a variety of topics on his radio programme, "Mann Ki Baat." It debuted on October 3, 2014, and it currently airs on the All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan (DD) network at 11 a.m. on the last Sunday of every month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Mann Ki Baat' goes global! Indian PM Modi's radio show to be aired in UN

india

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