Two banking officials, aware of the matter, said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is not keen on foreign trade settlement in yuan, and confirmed that the government has discouraged them from using the currency. They also said Russia was keen on yuan settlement as it helps them in purchases of goods from China.

India to discourage foreign trade settlement in Chinese yuan

India reported the third death of H3N2 influenza or "Hong Kong flu" in&nbsp;Vadodara in the Indian state of Gujarat, the first death reported in the western state.

Samples have been sent to&nbsp;Ahmedabad for further investigation.&nbsp;The number of cases in the recent months have seen a spike, as per media reports.&nbsp;The other two deaths were reported from Haryana and Karnataka, PTI news agency reported quoting official sources.

In Karnataka's Hassan district, an 82-year-old died on 1 March due to the H3N2 seasonal influenza subtype. Hire Gowda was suffering from hypertension.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-officials-and-bhutan-government-inaugurate-ground-station-of-indo-bhutan-satellite-571821">ISRO officials and Bhutan government inaugurate ground station of Indo-Bhutan satellite</a>

Hassan District Health Officer (DHO) told PTI, "It is confirmed that Hire Gowda, 82, son of Halage Gowda, died of H3N2 virus on March 1."&nbsp;The other death was reported from the Indian state of Haryana of a 56-year-old lung cancer patient, as per the news agency.&nbsp;

As per the data by Indian Health Ministry on Friday, a total of 451 cases were recorded of the H3N2 virus in India between 2 January and 5 March.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-to-decide-on-increased-compensation-for-1984-industrial-disaster-victims-571747">India's top court rejects plea on increased compensation for 1984 industrial disaster victims</a>

The influenza H3N2 virus can cause significant health issues if not treated in a timely manner. It can lead to severe lung infections.&nbsp;

Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said "Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections," as quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="Watch | Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment?">Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment?</a>

He added, "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation."&nbsp;

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India reported the third death of H3N2 influenza or "Hong Kong flu" in Vadodara in the Indian state of Gujarat, the first death reported in the western state. Samples have been sent to Ahmedabad for further investigation.

India reported the third death of H3N2 influenza or "Hong Kong flu" in Vadodara in the Indian state of Gujarat, the first death reported in the western state. Samples have been sent to Ahmedabad for further investigation. The number of cases in the recent months have seen a spike, as per media reports. The other two deaths were reported from Haryana and Karnataka, PTI news agency reported quoting official sources. In Karnataka's Hassan district, an 82-year-old died on 1 March due to the H3N2 seasonal influenza subtype. Hire Gowda was suffering from hypertension. Also Read | ISRO officials and Bhutan government inaugurate ground station of Indo-Bhutan satellite Hassan District Health Officer (DHO) told PTI, "It is confirmed that Hire Gowda, 82, son of Halage Gowda, died of H3N2 virus on March 1." The other death was reported from the Indian state of Haryana of a 56-year-old lung cancer patient, as per the news agency. As per the data by Indian Health Ministry on Friday, a total of 451 cases were recorded of the H3N2 virus in India between 2 January and 5 March. Also Read | India's top court rejects plea on increased compensation for 1984 industrial disaster victims The influenza H3N2 virus can cause significant health issues if not treated in a timely manner. It can lead to severe lung infections. Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said "Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections," as quoted by news agency ANI. Watch | Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment? He added, "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation." 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 reports third death from H3N2 flu, this time in Gujarat state

India is shining bright at Oscars 2023. The country has bagged awards for best original song and best documentary short for the first time. Will people realise there's more to the Indian film industry than Bollywood? Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Indian regional movies take spotlight at Oscars

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - India's Supreme Court has dismissed Centre's curative plea seeking additional funds from Union Carbide Corporation's (UCC) successor firms as increased compensation for the victims of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy.

Trending on WION: India's SC rejects plea for increased compensation to Bhopal Gas tragedy victims

Things are looking up for India’s aviation sector. Air India placed a record order of 470 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. India’s budget carrier Indigo might break the record as it plans to buy 500 passenger planes. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas Plus: What’s happening in India’s aviation sector?

The government of India has issued its opposition to petitions seeking legalisation of same-sex marriages in India. The govt says Indian laws are deeply embedded in religious and cultural values, and same-sex marriages could cause havoc in the society.

Gravitas: Will India legalise homosexual marriages? Here's what the govt says

Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city.

To suggest dust control measures, BMC has formed a seven-member committee under the chairmanship of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Sanjeev Kumar. As per the directions given by Municipal Commissioner I S Chahal, the panel shall submit a report within seven days.

“There are around 5,000 sites where construction work is going on currently. The air quality in Mumbai region including the city is currently bad due to changes in the wind speed conditions combined with dust arising from various development and construction works, which are going on a large scale. In view of this, dust is the main factor responsible for air pollution,” said a senior BMC official.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/air-pollution-causes-serious-health-issues-but-not-enough-being-done-to-mitigate-it-554791">WATCH |&nbsp;Air pollution causes serious health issues, but not enough being done to mitigate it</a>

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The committee’s main role will be to form a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dust control in the BMC area. It has to be finalised and implemented from April 1, 2023. Anyone found violating the rules will face strict action including being forced to stop the construction activity.

Usually, it is the national capital city of Delhi making headlines for its bad air quality, say officials. However, something has been different for Mumbai this time around.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-overtakes-delhi-to-become-most-polluted-indian-city-561748">Read more:&nbsp;Mumbai overtakes Delhi to become most-polluted Indian city</a>

Mumbai, which has a long coastline, and is believed to have better air quality than&nbsp;Delhi has surpassed the national capital's pollution levels several times.&nbsp;

With the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, doctors have sounded the alarm and advised those with respiratory illnesses to be cautious.

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Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city.

Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city. To suggest dust control measures, BMC has formed a seven-member committee under the chairmanship of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Sanjeev Kumar. As per the directions given by Municipal Commissioner I S Chahal, the panel shall submit a report within seven days. “There are around 5,000 sites where construction work is going on currently. The air quality in Mumbai region including the city is currently bad due to changes in the wind speed conditions combined with dust arising from various development and construction works, which are going on a large scale. In view of this, dust is the main factor responsible for air pollution,” said a senior BMC official. WATCH | Air pollution causes serious health issues, but not enough being done to mitigate it × The committee’s main role will be to form a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dust control in the BMC area. It has to be finalised and implemented from April 1, 2023. Anyone found violating the rules will face strict action including being forced to stop the construction activity. Usually, it is the national capital city of Delhi making headlines for its bad air quality, say officials. However, something has been different for Mumbai this time around. Read more: Mumbai overtakes Delhi to become most-polluted Indian city Mumbai, which has a long coastline, and is believed to have better air quality than Delhi has surpassed the national capital's pollution levels several times. With the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, doctors have sounded the alarm and advised those with respiratory illnesses to be cautious. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Mumbai's civic body forms a seven-member committee to address deteriorating air quality

Indian Supreme Court on Monday directed to list all the petitions seeking legal recognition of same-sex marriage issue before a five judges&nbsp;constitution bench. The highest court has already decriminalised homosexuality in 2018 but now the LGBTQ community are hoping for the legalisation of homosexual marriages.&nbsp;

All the petitions, which are strongly contended by the Centre, are now listed for hearing on 18 April 2023, as per Live Law portal.&nbsp;

Appearing for the petitioners, Dr AM Singhvi said, "Right to love makes us human". It should be extended in equal terms. You can extend it only on equal terms only if your lordships reads down the Special Marriage Act and other acts. It has to be read in such a way that terms such as man, woman are done away with."

Senior Advocate KV Vishwanathan said, "Transgender Protection Act exists even if the Centre says that we don't recognise such a union."&nbsp;

"This case is not about a transgender statute or the Hindu Marriage Act. What it is about is Article 21 and Article 19(1)(a). The right of choosing a partner is the right of expression, right of dignity. It's only a natural right, an assertion of a right. It has implications," he added.&nbsp;

Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud said, "We are not on arguments today but this will help everyone understand."

The apex court made the remarks to list all the pleas to a constitutional bench while hearing the clubbed petitions seeking the legal recogisition of same sex marriage in world's largest democracy.&nbsp;

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta,&nbsp;appearing for Centre, said in the apex court, “that the right to love, express and freedom of choice is already upheld, and no one is interfering with that right, but that does not mean conferring the right of marriage.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-opposes-same-sex-marriages-says-only-those-between-a-man-and-a-woman-the-norm-throughout-history-571127">Centre opposes same-sex marriages, says those between a man and a woman 'the norm throughout history'</a>

SG Mehta said that the "moment marriage as a recognized institution comes between same sex, question will come on adoption and therefore Parliament will have to see the issue of psychology of child, which has to be examined whether it can be raised in such a way."

Supreme Court remarked that the adopted child of a gay or lesbian couple does not have to be gay or a lesbian. Centre has already voiced its strong opposition towards the petitions filed before the court where it said that the matter for legalization should not be dealt with the judiciary but the Indian Parliament.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strangers-in-the-eyes-of-law-wion-speaks-with-hyderabad-gay-couple-569191">'Strangers in eyes of law': WION speaks with gay couple as India's top court set to hear petitions on marriage</a> 
 
The Centre in its affidavit, which came in response to the pleas, said that “recognised deviation…can occur only before the competent legislature”.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/argentina-roasts-in-record-heat-wave-571506">Argentina roasts in record heat wave</a>

“Despite the decriminalisation of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Petitioners cannot claim a fundamental right for same-sex marriage to be recognised under the laws of the country,” the centre added.

If same-sex marriage is legalised in India, the country will become the second Asian nation to have done so. Taiwan was the first Asian nation to have legalised the same-sex marriage on 24 May in 2019.&nbsp;Indian SC in the year 2014 recognised transgender people as a "third gender."

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Indian Supreme Court on Monday directed to list all the petitions seeking legal recognition of same-sex marriage issue before a five judges constitution bench. The highest court has already decriminalised homosexuality in 2018 but now the LGBTQ community are hoping for the legalisation of homosexual marriages.

Indian Supreme Court on Monday directed to list all the petitions seeking legal recognition of same-sex marriage issue before a five judges constitution bench. The highest court has already decriminalised homosexuality in 2018 but now the LGBTQ community are hoping for the legalisation of homosexual marriages. All the petitions, which are strongly contended by the Centre, are now listed for hearing on 18 April 2023, as per Live Law portal. Appearing for the petitioners, Dr AM Singhvi said, "Right to love makes us human". It should be extended in equal terms. You can extend it only on equal terms only if your lordships reads down the Special Marriage Act and other acts. It has to be read in such a way that terms such as man, woman are done away with." Senior Advocate KV Vishwanathan said, "Transgender Protection Act exists even if the Centre says that we don't recognise such a union." "This case is not about a transgender statute or the Hindu Marriage Act. What it is about is Article 21 and Article 19(1)(a). The right of choosing a partner is the right of expression, right of dignity. It's only a natural right, an assertion of a right. It has implications," he added. Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud said, "We are not on arguments today but this will help everyone understand." The apex court made the remarks to list all the pleas to a constitutional bench while hearing the clubbed petitions seeking the legal recogisition of same sex marriage in world's largest democracy. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Centre, said in the apex court, “that the right to love, express and freedom of choice is already upheld, and no one is interfering with that right, but that does not mean conferring the right of marriage.” Also Read | Centre opposes same-sex marriages, says those between a man and a woman 'the norm throughout history' SG Mehta said that the "moment marriage as a recognized institution comes between same sex, question will come on adoption and therefore Parliament will have to see the issue of psychology of child, which has to be examined whether it can be raised in such a way." Supreme Court remarked that the adopted child of a gay or lesbian couple does not have to be gay or a lesbian. Centre has already voiced its strong opposition towards the petitions filed before the court where it said that the matter for legalization should not be dealt with the judiciary but the Indian Parliament. Also Read | 'Strangers in eyes of law': WION speaks with gay couple as India's top court set to hear petitions on marriage The Centre in its affidavit, which came in response to the pleas, said that “recognised deviation…can occur only before the competent legislature”. Watch | Argentina roasts in record heat wave “Despite the decriminalisation of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Petitioners cannot claim a fundamental right for same-sex marriage to be recognised under the laws of the country,” the centre added. If same-sex marriage is legalised in India, the country will become the second Asian nation to have done so. Taiwan was the first Asian nation to have legalised the same-sex marriage on 24 May in 2019. Indian SC in the year 2014 recognised transgender people as a "third gender." 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 directs petitions seeking same-sex marriage legalisation to constitutional bench

India has asked banks and traders to avoid using Chinese yuan to pay for Russian imports, three government officials involved in policy making and two banking sources said, because of long-running political differences with its neighbour.&nbsp;

India, which has emerged as a top buyer of Russian oil as well as discounted coal, would prefer the use of United Arab Emirates dirhams to settle trade, three government officials said.&nbsp;

One of the government officials directly involved in the matter said New Delhi is "not comfortable" with foreign trade settled in yuan but said the settlement in "dirham is okay."&nbsp;

The second official said that India cannot allow settlement in yuan till the relations between the two countries improve.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-labels-china-as-a-systemic-challenge-to-the-world-order-571634">UK PM Rishi Sunak labels China as 'systemic challenge' to world order</a>&nbsp;

Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a standoff along their disputed Himalayan border since 2021, casting a shadow over the whole relationship.&nbsp;

The five officials did not say whether there were also economic reasons behind India's reluctance to accept the yuan settlement.&nbsp;

Last year India's biggest cement producer UltraTech Cement used Chinese yuan for a cargo of Russian coal, which raised some concerns among officials as the relationship between India and China deteriorated after deadly border clashes in 2020 in the remote Galwan Valley of Ladakh.&nbsp;

The government reviewed the situation with officials of the central bank and bank executives, following the UltraTech deal, the second official said.&nbsp;

Two banking officials, aware of the matter, said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is not keen on foreign trade settlement in yuan and confirmed that the government has discouraged them from using the currency.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Banking system safe, your deposits will be there when you need them: Biden&nbsp;

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They also said Russia was keen on yuan settlement as it helps them in purchases of goods from China.&nbsp;

For Indian refiners that in recent weeks started settling some Russian oil purchases in roubles, as Reuters reported, payments have been processed in part by the State Bank of India via its nostro roubles account in Russia.&nbsp;

But the bulk of the trade is still in other currencies as the rouble is partially convertible and the two countries are yet to finalise a framework.&nbsp;

All five officials declined to be named as discussions were private. India's foreign, finance ministry and RBI did not reply to requests seeking comment.&nbsp;

The government expected the majority of payments to Russia in dirhams in the coming months, the first official said.&nbsp;

India has longstanding political and security ties with Russia and has refrained from condemning the Ukraine war, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".&nbsp;

India is also a major buyer of Russian arms.&nbsp;

Indian refiners, in the meanwhile, have begun paying for most of their Russian oil bought via Dubai-based traders in dirhams instead of US&nbsp;dollars, Reuters reported last month.&nbsp;

India's rupee is partially convertible, which means it has to be converted to US&nbsp;dollars first before converting to any other currency, making it an unattractive reserve currency for global central banks and for settling a trade.&nbsp;

It also makes Russia reluctant to accept payment in Indian currency for its exports.&nbsp;

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India has asked banks and traders to avoid using Chinese yuan to pay for Russian imports, three government officials involved in policy making and two banking sources said, because of long-running political differences with its neighbour.

India has asked banks and traders to avoid using Chinese yuan to pay for Russian imports, three government officials involved in policy making and two banking sources said, because of long-running political differences with its neighbour. India, which has emerged as a top buyer of Russian oil as well as discounted coal, would prefer the use of United Arab Emirates dirhams to settle trade, three government officials said. One of the government officials directly involved in the matter said New Delhi is "not comfortable" with foreign trade settled in yuan but said the settlement in "dirham is okay." The second official said that India cannot allow settlement in yuan till the relations between the two countries improve. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak labels China as 'systemic challenge' to world order Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a standoff along their disputed Himalayan border since 2021, casting a shadow over the whole relationship. The five officials did not say whether there were also economic reasons behind India's reluctance to accept the yuan settlement. Last year India's biggest cement producer UltraTech Cement used Chinese yuan for a cargo of Russian coal, which raised some concerns among officials as the relationship between India and China deteriorated after deadly border clashes in 2020 in the remote Galwan Valley of Ladakh. The government reviewed the situation with officials of the central bank and bank executives, following the UltraTech deal, the second official said. Two banking officials, aware of the matter, said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is not keen on foreign trade settlement in yuan and confirmed that the government has discouraged them from using the currency. WATCH | Banking system safe, your deposits will be there when you need them: Biden × They also said Russia was keen on yuan settlement as it helps them in purchases of goods from China. For Indian refiners that in recent weeks started settling some Russian oil purchases in roubles, as Reuters reported, payments have been processed in part by the State Bank of India via its nostro roubles account in Russia. But the bulk of the trade is still in other currencies as the rouble is partially convertible and the two countries are yet to finalise a framework. All five officials declined to be named as discussions were private. India's foreign, finance ministry and RBI did not reply to requests seeking comment. The government expected the majority of payments to Russia in dirhams in the coming months, the first official said. India has longstanding political and security ties with Russia and has refrained from condemning the Ukraine war, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". India is also a major buyer of Russian arms. Indian refiners, in the meanwhile, have begun paying for most of their Russian oil bought via Dubai-based traders in dirhams instead of US dollars, Reuters reported last month. India's rupee is partially convertible, which means it has to be converted to US dollars first before converting to any other currency, making it an unattractive reserve currency for global central banks and for settling a trade. It also makes Russia reluctant to accept payment in Indian currency for its exports. 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 to discourage foreign trade settlement in Chinese yuan, say sources

In a bizarre incident in Central Kashmir's Budgam district, a 30-year-old woman named Arifa Khan was reportedly killed and chopped into multiple pieces allegedly by a 45-year-old murderer. The murder has shocked the whole of Kashmir Valley as it is the first time that such a gruesome act has taken place. The family of the victim is now demanding the accused be hanged.&nbsp;

Grief struck the village of Soibug when police found pieces of the body of a missing woman in the area. According to the family, the woman left home on March 7 to attend computer classes and went missing. When the family couldn't find her, they lodged a police complaint with a local police station. Arifa was to wed in June this year.&nbsp;

"I can’t explain how shocked I am about the whole incident. She was a very pious woman, and we were all set to get married in June this year. According to Islam, the murderer should be killed exactly the same way as he killed her, but we have the laws and I appeal to the Administration that he should be given strict punishment," said Ab Rouf, fiancé of Arifa.&nbsp;

The accused has been arrested by Jammu and Kashmir Police. The police have also recovered all the body parts of the victim from different places. The body has been sent for legal formalities. The accused murderer was identified as Shabir Ahmad Wani and is in police custody now.&nbsp;

"We have cracked a murder case in Budgam. On 7th March, Arifa went missing and on 8th her brother registered a missing complaint. We started the investigation and with the help of technical evidence and family support, we questioned a lot of suspects and one such suspect was Shabir Ahmad Wani. We got a clue that Shabir was involved and after the interrogation for two days, he confessed to the murder. He had chopped the body and hidden the body at different locations. We have also recovered the weapon of offence too," said SSP Budgam Tahir Gillani.&nbsp;

Police have started further investigation into the case and said very soon they will know the motive behind the murder.&nbsp;

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In a bizarre incident in Central Kashmir's Budgam district, a 30-year-old woman named Arifa Khan was reportedly killed and chopped into multiple pieces allegedly by a 45-year-old murderer.

In a bizarre incident in Central Kashmir's Budgam district, a 30-year-old woman named Arifa Khan was reportedly killed and chopped into multiple pieces allegedly by a 45-year-old murderer. The murder has shocked the whole of Kashmir Valley as it is the first time that such a gruesome act has taken place. The family of the victim is now demanding the accused be hanged. Grief struck the village of Soibug when police found pieces of the body of a missing woman in the area. According to the family, the woman left home on March 7 to attend computer classes and went missing. When the family couldn't find her, they lodged a police complaint with a local police station. Arifa was to wed in June this year. "I can’t explain how shocked I am about the whole incident. She was a very pious woman, and we were all set to get married in June this year. According to Islam, the murderer should be killed exactly the same way as he killed her, but we have the laws and I appeal to the Administration that he should be given strict punishment," said Ab Rouf, fiancé of Arifa. The accused has been arrested by Jammu and Kashmir Police. The police have also recovered all the body parts of the victim from different places. The body has been sent for legal formalities. The accused murderer was identified as Shabir Ahmad Wani and is in police custody now. "We have cracked a murder case in Budgam. On 7th March, Arifa went missing and on 8th her brother registered a missing complaint. We started the investigation and with the help of technical evidence and family support, we questioned a lot of suspects and one such suspect was Shabir Ahmad Wani. We got a clue that Shabir was involved and after the interrogation for two days, he confessed to the murder. He had chopped the body and hidden the body at different locations. We have also recovered the weapon of offence too," said SSP Budgam Tahir Gillani. Police have started further investigation into the case and said very soon they will know the motive behind the murder. 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.

Kashmir: 30-year-old woman killed, body chopped; police nab the accused

India's Spot in the World Test Championship final against Australia is confirmed after New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by two wickets in an absolute thriller. It will be India's second straight WTC final and another chance end the ICC Trophy drought since 2013.

WION Sports Extra: India qualify for WTC final after NZ win thriller

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said a row between the BBC and football presenter Gary Lineker over Lineker's criticism of government migration policy was a matter for the broadcaster, as the dispute threatened to trigger a crisis at the corporation.

Mutiny at the BBC: Lineker row causes mounting crisis at UK broadcaster

In India, with the onset of the summer season heat waves have also hit the country. This has led to forest fires that have been raging in northern and western parts of the country. @RohitWellington tells you how forest authorities and security personnel sprayed water on burning patches of land to douse the flames.

Wildfire continues to rage in India's Goa

All space agencies began by launching small rockets for experimental purposes and India's space agency ISRO also started its journey of rocketry by building and launching small indigenous rockets. Watch the video to know the journey of ISRO from its birthplace, Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS).

WION ground report from TERLS: The birthplace of ISRO

Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks.&nbsp;

As India looks back at that terrible day 30 years ago, some wounds remain unhealed. But Mumbaikars (the local people of Mumbai) have confronted the fear with courage. There were a total of 12 terrorist bomb blasts on March 12, 1993, that occurred in the city in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

The blasts took the lives of 257 people and injured&nbsp;thousands of others.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-bizarre-is-it-raining-worms-in-china-570896">BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China?</a>

It all started with an explosives-packed automobile which blew off in the basement of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building at around 1:30 in the afternoon on March 12. The explosions shocked the city's most crowded places and lasted for a little over two hours, from 1:30 pm to 3:40 pm.&nbsp;

There was panic and confusion everywhere. The injured were rushed to the hospitals which were overcrowded in the aftermath of dozens of blasts on that fateful day, which later came to be known as “Black Friday”. Many still continue to battle the horrors of that day and the dark memories still haunt them.&nbsp;

Dawood Ibrahim, one of India's most sought criminals was the mastermind behind the 1993 Mumbai blasts. He is known to have founded&nbsp;the criminal syndicate D-Company in Bombay in the 1970s. Famous actors have played the notorious gangster in several films and television shows that were inspired by him. Many Indian films detail the 1993 terror blasts and ensuing police inquiry.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-drill-or-not-to-drill-biden-to-make-decision-on-alaska-oil-project-570880">To drill or not to drill: Biden to make decision on Alaska oil project</a>

But Dawood Ibrahim and another gangster Tiger Memon, the 1993 explosion's masterminds, were able to elude the police and other enforcement agencies. Tiger Memon's real name is Ibrahim Mushtaq Abdul Razzaq Memon, but he is popularly known by his nickname.&nbsp;

Yakub Memon, the brother of Tiger Memon, was imprisoned in 1994. He was found guilty of conspiring, organising and funding training, and buying cars used for the bombings. He was convicted and awarded a death sentence in July 2007. After a gruelling 14 years of agony, the Supreme Court of India, in 2013, passed the final judgement on the case and upheld an earlier death sentence for Yakub Memon.&nbsp;

Yakub was hanged at Nagpur Prison on July 30, 2015, at 6:35 am IST.

But sadly, Yakub's brother Tiger Memon who is the prime suspect in the 1993 Bombay blasts and is believed to have conspired with Dawood Ibrahim, continues to remain at large till date.&nbsp;

The investigations into the explosion also purportedly exposed the D-Company’s nexus with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-minister-bilawal-bhutto-admits-pakistan-unable-to-get-uns-attention-on-kashmir-570886">Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir</a>

A total of 193 of the accused were detained by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch and the Special Task Force, which was led by the Central Bureau of Investigation. A total of 140 people were put on trial; however, 17 of them passed away during the course of&nbsp;the trial. 100 of the 123 suspects who faced trial were found guilty, while 23 were acquitted.&nbsp;

After the attacks, several of the conspirators who managed to escape India were apprehended and sent back.&nbsp; 
 
Gangster Abu Salem was one of them who was extradited to India from Portugal. In 2017, the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act court convicted six men, including Salem, for the blasts.&nbsp;

Salem is currently serving multiple life sentences in separate cases.

The death penalty was awarded to&nbsp;12 of them. One more passed away from illness, while the Supreme Court of India reduced 10 more death sentences to life in prison. 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks.

Sunday (March 12) marks the 30th anniversary of the 1993 serial bomb blasts in Bombay (Mumbai city's official name before 1995), which ripped apart India's financial hub and resulted in hundreds of fatalities in the hands of the dreaded terror attacks. As India looks back at that terrible day 30 years ago, some wounds remain unhealed. But Mumbaikars (the local people of Mumbai) have confronted the fear with courage. There were a total of 12 terrorist bomb blasts on March 12, 1993, that occurred in the city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The blasts took the lives of 257 people and injured thousands of others. WATCH | BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China? It all started with an explosives-packed automobile which blew off in the basement of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building at around 1:30 in the afternoon on March 12. The explosions shocked the city's most crowded places and lasted for a little over two hours, from 1:30 pm to 3:40 pm. There was panic and confusion everywhere. The injured were rushed to the hospitals which were overcrowded in the aftermath of dozens of blasts on that fateful day, which later came to be known as “Black Friday”. Many still continue to battle the horrors of that day and the dark memories still haunt them. Dawood Ibrahim, one of India's most sought criminals was the mastermind behind the 1993 Mumbai blasts. He is known to have founded the criminal syndicate D-Company in Bombay in the 1970s. Famous actors have played the notorious gangster in several films and television shows that were inspired by him. Many Indian films detail the 1993 terror blasts and ensuing police inquiry. Also Read | To drill or not to drill: Biden to make decision on Alaska oil project But Dawood Ibrahim and another gangster Tiger Memon, the 1993 explosion's masterminds, were able to elude the police and other enforcement agencies. Tiger Memon's real name is Ibrahim Mushtaq Abdul Razzaq Memon, but he is popularly known by his nickname. Yakub Memon, the brother of Tiger Memon, was imprisoned in 1994. He was found guilty of conspiring, organising and funding training, and buying cars used for the bombings. He was convicted and awarded a death sentence in July 2007. After a gruelling 14 years of agony, the Supreme Court of India, in 2013, passed the final judgement on the case and upheld an earlier death sentence for Yakub Memon. Yakub was hanged at Nagpur Prison on July 30, 2015, at 6:35 am IST. But sadly, Yakub's brother Tiger Memon who is the prime suspect in the 1993 Bombay blasts and is believed to have conspired with Dawood Ibrahim, continues to remain at large till date. The investigations into the explosion also purportedly exposed the D-Company’s nexus with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Watch | Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir A total of 193 of the accused were detained by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch and the Special Task Force, which was led by the Central Bureau of Investigation. A total of 140 people were put on trial; however, 17 of them passed away during the course of the trial. 100 of the 123 suspects who faced trial were found guilty, while 23 were acquitted. After the attacks, several of the conspirators who managed to escape India were apprehended and sent back. Gangster Abu Salem was one of them who was extradited to India from Portugal. In 2017, the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act court convicted six men, including Salem, for the blasts. Salem is currently serving multiple life sentences in separate cases. The death penalty was awarded to 12 of them. One more passed away from illness, while the Supreme Court of India reduced 10 more death sentences to life in prison. 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.

1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep

U.S. President Joe Biden has invited India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a bilateral meeting in June 2023. This will be Prime Minister Modi's first bilateral visit in the last year, he has so far visited the U.S. on the sidelines of the multilateral events.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his country will not tolerate attacks on Hindu temples and religious places after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples in the Down Under country.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his country will not tolerate attacks on Hindu temples and religious places after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples in the Down Under country. "I gave him (PM Modi) the assurance that Australia is a country that respects people's faith. That we don't tolerate the sort of extreme actions and attacks that we've seen on religious buildings, be they Hindu temples, mosques, synagogues, or churches," Albanese was quoted as saying by PTI. The Indian PM on Friday, had raised the matter during a joint press conference, breaking away from the bonhomie of the entire tour to express his concern. Modi described the attacks on Hindu temples as a 'matter of regret'. "The Indian community is making a significant contribution to the society and economy of Australia. It is a matter of regret that reports have come regularly from Australia in the last few weeks about attacks on temples," said PM Modi. WATCH | Indian PM Modi raises temple vandalism in Australia with PM Albanese during bilateral talks × "It is natural that such news worries the people in India, and disturbs our minds. I have shared these feelings and concerns of ours with Prime Minister Albanese. And he has assured me that the safety of the Indian community is a special priority for him. Our teams will be in regular touch on this topic, and will cooperate as much as possible," he added. The Australian PM was on a four-day India visit and held several key bilateral talks with the Indian side. In his closing remarks, Albanese said the two countries were working towards a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. Albanese added that he was hopeful that the agreement will be finalised by the end of this year. The highlight of the trip, however, was the visit by the two leaders to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat ahead of the start of the fourth Border Gavaskar Test match between India and Australia. WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Albanese says Australia won’t tolerate attacks on Hindu temples, other religious places

Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint.&nbsp;

Medical practitioners have observed that the pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said&nbsp;"Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections,"&nbsp;as quoted by news agency&nbsp;ANI.&nbsp;

Dr Gupta further pointed out, it is leading to&nbsp;severe pulmonary infections. "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tamil-nadu-school-girl-dies-after-overdosing-iron-on-supplements-on-a-dare-570685">India: Tamil Nadu school girl dies after overdosing on iron supplements</a>

The first two H3N2 influenza virus-related deaths in India have occurred in the states of Haryana and Karnataka, as reported by ANI.&nbsp;

According to health department authorities, the victim from Karnataka had symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI), such as a fever, sore throat, and cough. The 82-year-old man from Alur Taluk in the Hassan district was hospitalised at the Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences on February 24, and he passed away on March 1.

Almost 90 cases of the H3N2 virus have reportedly been detected in India so far, according to media reports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-first-two-deaths-from-h3n2-influenza-one-each-in-haryana-karnataka-570605">India reports first two deaths from H3N2 influenza: One each in Haryana, Karnataka</a>

The H3N2v virus sometimes referred to as a "swine influenza virus," is a non-human influenza virus that typically infects pigs and has also infected people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

These viruses are known as "variant" viruses when they infect people. According to the CDC, the particular H3N2 variant virus was found in people in 2011 and contained the M gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus as well as genes from avian, swine, and human viruses.

Presently, the severity of the H3N2 illness is comparable to that of seasonal flu.

Fever, breathing issues including a cough and runny nose, as well as other symptoms like body pains, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, are among the symptoms. Although some people may have these symptoms for more than a week, this is how long they typically last.

According to the CDC, individuals with certain long-term health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, children under the age of five, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with these conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications if they contract the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint.

Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint. Medical practitioners have observed that the pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said "Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections," as quoted by news agency ANI. Dr Gupta further pointed out, it is leading to severe pulmonary infections. "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation," he added. ALSO READ | India: Tamil Nadu school girl dies after overdosing on iron supplements The first two H3N2 influenza virus-related deaths in India have occurred in the states of Haryana and Karnataka, as reported by ANI. According to health department authorities, the victim from Karnataka had symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI), such as a fever, sore throat, and cough. The 82-year-old man from Alur Taluk in the Hassan district was hospitalised at the Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences on February 24, and he passed away on March 1. Almost 90 cases of the H3N2 virus have reportedly been detected in India so far, according to media reports. ALSO READ | India reports first two deaths from H3N2 influenza: One each in Haryana, Karnataka The H3N2v virus sometimes referred to as a "swine influenza virus," is a non-human influenza virus that typically infects pigs and has also infected people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These viruses are known as "variant" viruses when they infect people. According to the CDC, the particular H3N2 variant virus was found in people in 2011 and contained the M gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus as well as genes from avian, swine, and human viruses. Presently, the severity of the H3N2 illness is comparable to that of seasonal flu. Fever, breathing issues including a cough and runny nose, as well as other symptoms like body pains, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, are among the symptoms. Although some people may have these symptoms for more than a week, this is how long they typically last. According to the CDC, individuals with certain long-term health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, children under the age of five, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with these conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications if they contract the virus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

H3N2 Influenza changing pattern unexpectedly: Experts warn more hospitalisations

In India, the spike in cases of #H3N2 influenza has led to growing concerns. The country has reported the first deaths in the state of Karnataka and Haryana. @eriknjoka tells you all about #H3N2Flu

India: Two die as H3N2 influenza cases rise

Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker. BBC accused Lineker of violating the organization's purported impartiality norms for his remarks about the UK government's Illegal Migration Bill.&nbsp;

While taking to Twitter, the sports minister wrote it is "Interesting" to see how the BBC which makes "lofty claims about journalistic objectivity &amp; independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity."

"In yet another interesting exhibit, BBC suspends airing of a documentary it shot over fears that it would anger a section of society. Fake narrative setting &amp; ethical journalism are inherently contradictory," he added.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-bizarre-is-it-raining-worms-in-china-570896">BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China?</a>

The BBC has recently received a heavy backlash from the top Indian ministers for its two-part documentary series India: The Modi Question. The media organisation slammed Modi,&nbsp;Gujarat's then-chief minister in the divisive docuseries for his alleged involvement in the riots that broke out between Hindus and minority Muslims in 2002.

The documentary was broadcasted in the United Kingdom in January.&nbsp;

Against the backdrop of this, Anurag Thakur said, "Those indulging in malicious propaganda forged in concocted facts can obviously never be expected to have the moral fibre or the courage to stand up for journalistic independence."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Interesting to see how the BBC which makes lofty claims about journalistic objectivity &amp; independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity. 
 
1/3 <a href="https://t.co/iTDY3sJQHF">pic.twitter.com/iTDY3sJQHF</a>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1634550481946279941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai were searched by Indian tax authorities last month.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was Gary Lineker suspended?&nbsp;</h2>

Lineker on 7 March&nbsp;denounced the Tory's&nbsp;immigration policies, comparing them to Germany in the 1930s.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tweets caused a significant uproar.&nbsp;Tory lawmakers and members of the Rishi Sunak cabinet criticised&nbsp;Lineker for his remarks.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the BBC said on Friday that it had opted not to air an episode of Sir David Attenborough's acclaimed new wildlife documentary series Wild Islands.&nbsp;

Some reports in the British media claim that the episode was cancelled because of concern for a potential Tory, right-wing backlash over environmental destruction. But BBC asserted that the programme was never intended to be aired in the first place.&nbsp;

As a result of the controversy, the broadcaster's flagship soccer show Match of the Day as well as other programmes have been pulled off the air and are now facing a boycott from commentators, hosts and even players.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-minister-bilawal-bhutto-admits-pakistan-unable-to-get-uns-attention-on-kashmir-570886">Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir</a>

Gary Lineker, whose career lasted from 1978 to 1994, was England's best center-forward of the 1980s. Lineker is regarded as one of England's finest football commentators, mostly due to his work on the BBC programme "Match of the Day," which he first featured in 1999.

“The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting ‘Match of the Day’ until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media,” the media organisation said in a statement.

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Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker.

Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker. BBC accused Lineker of violating the organization's purported impartiality norms for his remarks about the UK government's Illegal Migration Bill. While taking to Twitter, the sports minister wrote it is "Interesting" to see how the BBC which makes "lofty claims about journalistic objectivity & independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity." "In yet another interesting exhibit, BBC suspends airing of a documentary it shot over fears that it would anger a section of society. Fake narrative setting & ethical journalism are inherently contradictory," he added. WATCH | BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China? The BBC has recently received a heavy backlash from the top Indian ministers for its two-part documentary series India: The Modi Question. The media organisation slammed Modi, Gujarat's then-chief minister in the divisive docuseries for his alleged involvement in the riots that broke out between Hindus and minority Muslims in 2002. The documentary was broadcasted in the United Kingdom in January. Against the backdrop of this, Anurag Thakur said, "Those indulging in malicious propaganda forged in concocted facts can obviously never be expected to have the moral fibre or the courage to stand up for journalistic independence." Interesting to see how the BBC which makes lofty claims about journalistic objectivity & independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/iTDY3sJQHF — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) March 11, 2023 × Also Read | 1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep The BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai were searched by Indian tax authorities last month. Why was Gary Lineker suspended? Lineker on 7 March denounced the Tory's immigration policies, comparing them to Germany in the 1930s. The tweets caused a significant uproar. Tory lawmakers and members of the Rishi Sunak cabinet criticised Lineker for his remarks. Meanwhile, the BBC said on Friday that it had opted not to air an episode of Sir David Attenborough's acclaimed new wildlife documentary series Wild Islands. Some reports in the British media claim that the episode was cancelled because of concern for a potential Tory, right-wing backlash over environmental destruction. But BBC asserted that the programme was never intended to be aired in the first place. As a result of the controversy, the broadcaster's flagship soccer show Match of the Day as well as other programmes have been pulled off the air and are now facing a boycott from commentators, hosts and even players. Watch | Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir Gary Lineker, whose career lasted from 1978 to 1994, was England's best center-forward of the 1980s. Lineker is regarded as one of England's finest football commentators, mostly due to his work on the BBC programme "Match of the Day," which he first featured in 1999. “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting ‘Match of the Day’ until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media,” the media organisation said in a statement. 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 sports minister Anurag Thakur comes out all guns blazing at BBC over Gary Lineker's suspension

Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari accepts that the country has failed to get any traction or support for its agenda from the wider UN membership.

Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari calls India a 'friend', then retracts

Pakistan Foreign Minister Accepts: No traction on Kashmir agenda at UN

There have been 2 deaths in India due to the H3N2 flu. Molly Gambhir tells you about the rise in flu cases and how to protect yourself.

Gravitas: How to protect yourself from the H3N2 flu

Indian matrimonial site Bharat Matrimony is facing backlash on Twitter for an advertisement highlighting harassment on Holi. Food and grocery deliverer Swiggy has been accused of Hinduphobia. Are people growing too sensitive of creative expressions? Where do we draw the line. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Indian matrimony site faces fire over ad

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