<p>After an assistance request from the Syrian government, a 40-member contingent of Indian army personnel, deployed as UN peacekeepers, has been sent to Aleppo to provide relief in the aftermath of the earthquake. The Indian team will be undertaking multiple trips to transport relief material consisting of rations, medical supplies, clothing, and other aid sent by the Government of India and the international community.</p>

<p>The Indian army personnel&nbsp;are&nbsp;deployed as UN peacekeepers at the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) mission, and are stationed along the Area of Separation (AOS) between the boundaries of the occupied Golan Heights (by Israel) and Syria. The Indian Army has deployed 180 personnel to provide logistics support to the mission.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fda-approves-a-first-of-its-kind-vibrating-pill-to-relieve-chronic-constipation-562176">FDA approves a 'first-of-its-kind' vibrating pill to relieve chronic constipation</a></p>

<p>The Indian government approved the proposal for Indian Army personnel stationed in UNDOF to provide direct assistance in earthquake relief work. On February 15, the first convoy transported relief material consisting of rations and medicines, pooled from the Indian government and the international community to Aleppo in Syria. The relief material has been handed over to representatives of the local administration at Aleppo.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mexico-hundreds-including-same-sex-couples-wed-in-mass-ceremony-on-valentines-day-562152">Hundreds, including same-sex couples, wed in mass ceremony on Valentine's Day in Mexico</a></p>

<p>An advance party reached Aleppo on February 12&nbsp;and liaised with Dr Maher, the Governorate Council of Aleppo, and the Governor of Aleppo. The Governor thanked the Indian team for their kind gesture and mentioned that relief material was the most required at this time.</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/designer-babies-how-far-is-too-far-562161">'Designer' babies: How far is too far?</a></p>

<p>India has also launched Operation Dost to provide support to both Turkey and Syria. Indian military teams and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel are already in Turkey for relief measures.</p>

<p>The death toll from the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday last week has risen to 41,000. Even though it has been over a week, still, the stories of brave survivors continue to emerge from the piles of rubble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weather too is not a friend in these tough times as freezing temperatures are hampering the rescue operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&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>


After an assistance request from the Syrian government, a 40-member contingent of Indian army personnel, deployed as UN peacekeepers, has been sent to Aleppo to provide relief in the aftermath of the earthquake.

After an assistance request from the Syrian government, a 40-member contingent of Indian army personnel, deployed as UN peacekeepers, has been sent to Aleppo to provide relief in the aftermath of the earthquake. The Indian team will be undertaking multiple trips to transport relief material consisting of rations, medical supplies, clothing, and other aid sent by the Government of India and the international community. The Indian army personnel are deployed as UN peacekeepers at the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) mission, and are stationed along the Area of Separation (AOS) between the boundaries of the occupied Golan Heights (by Israel) and Syria. The Indian Army has deployed 180 personnel to provide logistics support to the mission. Also Read | FDA approves a 'first-of-its-kind' vibrating pill to relieve chronic constipation The Indian government approved the proposal for Indian Army personnel stationed in UNDOF to provide direct assistance in earthquake relief work. On February 15, the first convoy transported relief material consisting of rations and medicines, pooled from the Indian government and the international community to Aleppo in Syria. The relief material has been handed over to representatives of the local administration at Aleppo. Also Read | Hundreds, including same-sex couples, wed in mass ceremony on Valentine's Day in Mexico An advance party reached Aleppo on February 12 and liaised with Dr Maher, the Governorate Council of Aleppo, and the Governor of Aleppo. The Governor thanked the Indian team for their kind gesture and mentioned that relief material was the most required at this time. Watch | 'Designer' babies: How far is too far? India has also launched Operation Dost to provide support to both Turkey and Syria. Indian military teams and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel are already in Turkey for relief measures. The death toll from the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday last week has risen to 41,000. Even though it has been over a week, still, the stories of brave survivors continue to emerge from the piles of rubble. Weather too is not a friend in these tough times as freezing temperatures are hampering the rescue operations. 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 UN peacekeepers deployed in Syria for earthquake relief work in Aleppo

The five-day event, with the theme "The runway to a billion opportunities," was launched by PM Modi on Monday at the Yelahanka Air Force Station to highlight India's expanding aerospace and defence capabilities. In keeping with the motto "Make in India, Make for the World," Aero India-2023 will this time place a strong emphasis on showcasing homegrown machinery and innovations as well as establishing alliances with foreign businesses. It was stated that 98 countries, 32 defence ministers, 29 air chiefs, and 73 chief executive officers of international and Indian original equipment manufacturers are expected to participate in this, the largest gathering to date.

Aero India 2023: Asia's largest Air show inaugurated by Indian PM

Advanced age and related health issues have failed to dampen the indomitable spirit of this 93-year-old professor, who commutes over 60 kms a day to handhold students into the marvellous world of Physics. For Professor Chilukuri Santhamma, Physics is her passion, and teaching, her purpose in life.

Meet India's oldest professor Chilukuri Santhamma

Aero India 2023: 5th Gen Fighter Aircraft F-35 makes debut

BBC offices in India have been raided by tax department officials, just weeks after the release of a documentary critical of the prime minister, Narendra Modi, which was later blocked by the government.

'Tax-evasion' investigation on BBC

The Indian Income Tax Department arrived at the Delhi and Mumbai offices of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The operation is being called a survey by officials, not a raid.

Income Tax Department surveys BBC India: 5 things to know

A team of officials from the Income Tax Department conducted survey operations at the offices of the BBC in Delhi and Mumbai in connection with alleged tax evasion and irregularities.

BBC India Raid: I-T Department conducts 'survey operations' for alleged tax evasion

The Vande Bharat trains have been a huge hit among commuters. It is the fastest train in India, with a top speed of 180 kmph, while the operational speed is 130 kmph, keeping in mind safety concerns. 10 such trains have been launched so far. Watch this to know some of the key highlights about this special train.

10 Vande Bharat trains now operational in India: Key updates

Police in India's Gurugram have arrested a couple for allegedly torturing their maid over a period of almost six months. The minor maid was regularly assaulted and sexually abused during her job. The couple has been sacked from their jobs.

Gravitas: Gurugram couple loses jobs for torturing minor maid

A new alliance is in the making. China, Iran and Moscow are coming closer. There are strategic goals, defence goals and a common enemy. Should India be worried? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: There is a new alliance between China, Iran and Russia. Should India be worried?

<p>India's dependence on the import of EV batteries, laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices would be significantly reduced since the discovery of a 5.9 million tonnes lithium reserve in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi District. The reserve can help meet India's expanding EV industry's lithium demand.&nbsp;Since the commercialisation of lithium-ion batteries in the 1990s, significant technological advancements have put lithium at the forefront, according to Austrade, The Australian Trade and Investment Commission.&nbsp;Australian government's trade, investment and education promotion agency.&nbsp;It is the driving force behind the revolution in smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices.</p>

<h2><strong>What is lithium used for?</strong></h2>

<p>Lithium is an extremely reactive, alkaline, and light metal. It is mostly employed in the manufacturing&nbsp;of ceramics and glassware, greases, medicinal compounds, air conditioners, and aluminium, among other things. Due to its maximum energy storage capacity per kilogramme,&nbsp;It is an ideal option for electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla due to its enormous energy storage capacity and incredibly low weight.</p>

<h2><strong>India's 'white gold'</strong></h2>

<p>The Geological Survey of India, which also evaluates India's mineral resources, discovered 5.9 million tonnes of lithium resources - a first for the nation - in the Salal-Haimana region of Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, according to a report released on February 9 by the Indian Ministry of Mines. During the 62nd Central Geological Programming Board meeting that day, the Ministry of Mines presented a report on this, 15 additional resource-bearing geological reports, and 35 geological memoranda to the relevant state governments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-discovers-huge-deposits-of-lithium-critical-for-electric-mobility-560432">India discovers huge deposits of Lithium critical for electric mobility</a></p>

<p>“For the first time, lithium reserves have been discovered and that too in Jammu and Kashmir,” the news agency&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;quoted mines secretary Vivek Bharadwaj as saying.</p>

<p>The soft, shining grey metal is one that is crucial in the modern world. Among other things, it's utilised to construct the essential batteries for electric vehicles. Hence, "white gold" was given. If India had its own lithium reserves, it wouldn't need to rely as heavily on imports as it does now to meet its demands. Given the push for electric vehicles, India's needs for lithium are also probably going to increase, said Bharadwaj.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<p>Reserves of ithium are also rare. According to Rishabh Jain, senior programme director for the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water, who spoke to the Wire,&nbsp;there are 98 million tonnes of lithium in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;India has now discovered around 5.5 per cent of these resources.</p>

<h2><strong>India's Lithium reserve vs Lithium reserves in other countries</strong></h2>

<p>The lithium deposit in Jammu and Kashmir may contain a significant amount of lithium, however it is currently insufficient to compare to the top lithium reserves in the world. Australia has 6.3 million tonnes of lithium, Bolivia has 21 million tonnes, and Argentina has 17 million tonnes, as reported by the Mint.&nbsp;China, however, is the source of 4.5 million tonnes of the light metal. In 2020, China will be the third-largest provider of lithium in the world, owning a total of 7.9% of the world's lithium reserves.</p>

<p>Since South America is a particularly rich supply of the metal, the three nations of Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina are collectively referred to as the "Lithium Triangle."</p>

<p>A US-based committee claims that between 2018 and 2020, China spent $16 billion on mining operations abroad to explore for lithium. It also made investments in the "lithium triangle" region of South America.</p>

<p>Furthermore, China is the world's leader in the manufacture of electric vehicles. According to a research by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, mostly because of its early investment in Australia's main mining output activities.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India discovers 5.9 million tonnes of lithium deposits</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-discovers-59-million-tonnes-of-lithium-deposits-560761/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Beijing currently has 55% of the chemical lithium supply needed for battery-powered electric vehicles. It is currently increasing its power in the lithium triangle as well. The principal owner of the Cauchar-Olaroz facility in Argentina, thought to be one of the world's top lithium producing mines, is China's Ganfeng Lithium.</p>

<p>Additionally, it is one of the largest EV battery suppliers to India. Given India's fraught relationship with the dragon over territorial disputes, this is a matter of concern.</p>

<p>Owning more of these lithium sources and strengthening India's position in foreign lithium mines are crucial if India is to become self-sufficient in the field of EV production and stop depending on China for EV battery supplies.</p>

<h2><strong>Amount of lithium in&nbsp;EV batteries</strong></h2>

<p>EV batteries contain a few grammes of lithium, which is best described as being comparable to half a teaspoon of sugar. 5,000 battery cells and 10 kg of lithium are both potential requirements for an EV. 90 electric cars' worth of demand can be supplied by one tonne of lithium, as reported by Money Control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These batteries are lithium-ion and contain numerous distinct cells. One million electric automobiles require around 60,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent.</p>

<p>Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla, stated in a recent tweet that 30 million electric cars must be created by 2027, which would require 1.8 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent. This would require a 473 percent increase in output of lithium carbon equivalent to 1.8 million tonnes from levels in 2019.</p>

<p>By 2030, Tesla itself plans to boost its capacity for producing batteries by at least 50 times, to three terawatt hours. This would take $7 billion (Rs 51,025 crore) in investments, but that amount is significantly less when taking batteries and auto production into account.</p>

<p>Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are favoured and accounted for 54 per cent&nbsp;of the metal's demand in 2019. In addition to having a higher energy density and a longer life cycle with less maintenance, they are scalable.</p>

<h2><strong>Game changer for India</strong></h2>

<p>India, which has mostly relied on imports for the mineral, now has hope with the finding of a large reserve. The fact that the majority of the global reserve is located in regions with severe water stress makes this discovery even more important. India is a potential replacement because the mineral requires a large amount of water for extraction and the majority of the reserves are in nations with water shortages.</p>

<p>EVs aren't the only thing that use lithium; it's also used in the medical field, in electronics that run our phones, in solar panels, and in other renewable technologies essential for the switch to clean energy. The discovery might mark the start of a new era for the entire world as well as India.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


India's dependence on the import of EV batteries, laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices would be significantly reduced since the discovery of a 5.

India's dependence on the import of EV batteries, laptops, mobile phones, and other electronic devices would be significantly reduced since the discovery of a 5.9 million tonnes lithium reserve in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi District. The reserve can help meet India's expanding EV industry's lithium demand. Since the commercialisation of lithium-ion batteries in the 1990s, significant technological advancements have put lithium at the forefront, according to Austrade, The Australian Trade and Investment Commission. Australian government's trade, investment and education promotion agency. It is the driving force behind the revolution in smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices. What is lithium used for? Lithium is an extremely reactive, alkaline, and light metal. It is mostly employed in the manufacturing of ceramics and glassware, greases, medicinal compounds, air conditioners, and aluminium, among other things. Due to its maximum energy storage capacity per kilogramme, It is an ideal option for electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla due to its enormous energy storage capacity and incredibly low weight. India's 'white gold' The Geological Survey of India, which also evaluates India's mineral resources, discovered 5.9 million tonnes of lithium resources - a first for the nation - in the Salal-Haimana region of Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, according to a report released on February 9 by the Indian Ministry of Mines. During the 62nd Central Geological Programming Board meeting that day, the Ministry of Mines presented a report on this, 15 additional resource-bearing geological reports, and 35 geological memoranda to the relevant state governments. Also read | India discovers huge deposits of Lithium critical for electric mobility “For the first time, lithium reserves have been discovered and that too in Jammu and Kashmir,” the news agency PTI quoted mines secretary Vivek Bharadwaj as saying. The soft, shining grey metal is one that is crucial in the modern world. Among other things, it's utilised to construct the essential batteries for electric vehicles. Hence, "white gold" was given. If India had its own lithium reserves, it wouldn't need to rely as heavily on imports as it does now to meet its demands. Given the push for electric vehicles, India's needs for lithium are also probably going to increase, said Bharadwaj. Reserves of ithium are also rare. According to Rishabh Jain, senior programme director for the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water, who spoke to the Wire, there are 98 million tonnes of lithium in the world. India has now discovered around 5.5 per cent of these resources. India's Lithium reserve vs Lithium reserves in other countries The lithium deposit in Jammu and Kashmir may contain a significant amount of lithium, however it is currently insufficient to compare to the top lithium reserves in the world. Australia has 6.3 million tonnes of lithium, Bolivia has 21 million tonnes, and Argentina has 17 million tonnes, as reported by the Mint. China, however, is the source of 4.5 million tonnes of the light metal. In 2020, China will be the third-largest provider of lithium in the world, owning a total of 7.9% of the world's lithium reserves. Since South America is a particularly rich supply of the metal, the three nations of Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina are collectively referred to as the "Lithium Triangle." A US-based committee claims that between 2018 and 2020, China spent $16 billion on mining operations abroad to explore for lithium. It also made investments in the "lithium triangle" region of South America. Furthermore, China is the world's leader in the manufacture of electric vehicles. According to a research by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, mostly because of its early investment in Australia's main mining output activities. Also watch | Gravitas: India discovers 5.9 million tonnes of lithium deposits Beijing currently has 55% of the chemical lithium supply needed for battery-powered electric vehicles. It is currently increasing its power in the lithium triangle as well. The principal owner of the Cauchar-Olaroz facility in Argentina, thought to be one of the world's top lithium producing mines, is China's Ganfeng Lithium. Additionally, it is one of the largest EV battery suppliers to India. Given India's fraught relationship with the dragon over territorial disputes, this is a matter of concern. Owning more of these lithium sources and strengthening India's position in foreign lithium mines are crucial if India is to become self-sufficient in the field of EV production and stop depending on China for EV battery supplies. Amount of lithium in EV batteries EV batteries contain a few grammes of lithium, which is best described as being comparable to half a teaspoon of sugar. 5,000 battery cells and 10 kg of lithium are both potential requirements for an EV. 90 electric cars' worth of demand can be supplied by one tonne of lithium, as reported by Money Control. These batteries are lithium-ion and contain numerous distinct cells. One million electric automobiles require around 60,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent. Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla, stated in a recent tweet that 30 million electric cars must be created by 2027, which would require 1.8 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent. This would require a 473 percent increase in output of lithium carbon equivalent to 1.8 million tonnes from levels in 2019. By 2030, Tesla itself plans to boost its capacity for producing batteries by at least 50 times, to three terawatt hours. This would take $7 billion (Rs 51,025 crore) in investments, but that amount is significantly less when taking batteries and auto production into account. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are favoured and accounted for 54 per cent of the metal's demand in 2019. In addition to having a higher energy density and a longer life cycle with less maintenance, they are scalable. Game changer for India India, which has mostly relied on imports for the mineral, now has hope with the finding of a large reserve. The fact that the majority of the global reserve is located in regions with severe water stress makes this discovery even more important. India is a potential replacement because the mineral requires a large amount of water for extraction and the majority of the reserves are in nations with water shortages. EVs aren't the only thing that use lithium; it's also used in the medical field, in electronics that run our phones, in solar panels, and in other renewable technologies essential for the switch to clean energy. The discovery might mark the start of a new era for the entire world as well as India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: What does the discovery of lithium in J&K mean for India?

The death toll from the deadly Syria-Turkey earthquake has crossed 28,000. According to the Turkish Vice President, Turkey's death toll climbed to 24,617 and in Syria, the total number of confirmed deaths stands at 3,575. Indian envoy to Turkey Dr Virander Paul speaks to WION on India's aid to quake-hit country. Dr Paul says India's focus is on assisting Turkey authorities.

India's Operation Dost: Seventh flight to Turkey and Syria with relief materials lands

India displays Aerospace might at Aero India 2023 in Bengaluru

India is hosting a biennial event known as 'Aero India'. It will be inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi later today. The five-day event is aimed at building new technology for the Indian aviation industry. It will showcase India's growing stature as a defence-aerospace power. India today indigenously designs and develops everything from helicopters, to fighter aircraft, missiles and even a forty-thousand tonne aircraft carrier. Some of these made-in-India hardware and defence platforms are already being exported to friendly-foreign nations. But, India would like to take such exports further in volume. The Indian defence minister will be hosting the defence ministers' conclave. Defence ministers from thirty-two nations will take part in this meeting. While talking specifically about the air force chiefs, thirty nations are expected to send their senior air force officials. This will help to boost potential exchange of ideas, best practices and increased understanding at the force-leadership level.

India hosts 'Aero-India' 2023: Event aimed at showcasing India's air-defence capabilities

Aero-India 2023: Over 800 defence firms to participate

Aero-India 2023: Five-day 'Aero India' show in Bengaluru

Aero-India 2023: Largest-ever edition of Aero India inaugurated by Indian PM Modi

Aero-India 2023: Indian Defence Minister to host Defence Minister's conclave

Aero-India 2023: Aero India among the world's top defence aerospace shows

<p>Pointing to the proactive role played by Indian relief and rescue teams, Indian ambassador to Turkey, Dr&nbsp;Virander Paul while speaking to WION,&nbsp;said that Indian relief and rescue "teams on the ground are carrying out their&nbsp;work" and "focus has mainly been on assisting the Turkish authorities to carry out search&nbsp;and rescue operations."&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has shown its unwavering support to the people of Turkey&nbsp;in the wake of the recent earthquake that has affected over 13 million people in 10 provinces. Under operation Dost, 6 C17 aircraft loaded with humanitarian aid, medical equipment, and supplies have arrived in the country since the earthquake that struck the country last Monday.</p>

<p>The situation of Indians in Turkey&nbsp;is also being closely monitored. So far, 130 Indians have been accounted for, but in some&nbsp;unfortunate news, one Indian has been confirmed dead. Speaking&nbsp;from Adana, the Turkey&nbsp;ambassador said, "We are in process of the earliest possible transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased to his family."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-syria-earthquake-death-toll-crosses-33000-mark-561253">Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll crosses 33,000 mark</a></p>

<p>The Indian mission on the ground, led by Dr&nbsp;Virander Paul, is in constant communication with Turkish interlocutors to ensure the seamless delivery of aid. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about his stance on&nbsp;Operation Dost, the ambassador said that the&nbsp;focus has mainly been on assisting the Turkish authorities to carry out search&nbsp;and rescue operations for which three&nbsp;teams have been positioned in southern&nbsp;Turkey, in the Hatay province, and two&nbsp;teams in&nbsp;Gaziantep. In addition, the Indian army had set up a hospital at a place called&nbsp;İskenderun&nbsp;in Hatay province. It is a 30-bed hospital, with 99 members on the team. It has anesthetists, orthopedic surgeons, general surgeons, and other specialists. The work of the hospital is progressing very well.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">He added that the sixth&nbsp;C17s airplanes carrying humanitarian assistance from India landed in Turkey, at Adana airport earlier this morning. The chief coordinator in charge of humanitarian assistance at Adana was with him&nbsp;to receive the flight. This flight contains a variety of relief materials, medical equipment like ECG machines, patient monitors, and other things. The plane has also carried supplies for the teams we already have in position, both the medical team in Hatay province and also the search and rescue teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Turkey, Syria death toll tops 28,000; UN Relief Chief meets families affected by earthquake</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/turkey-syria-death-toll-tops-28000-un-relief-chief-meets-families-affected-by-earthquake-561204/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On the role played by the Indian mission on the ground, the ambassador said that a team of officials from Ankara and also the Indian consulate in Istanbul are assisting the humanitarian relief from India so that their work is conducted seamlessly. For this purpose, Indian&nbsp;officials are in direct constant touch with Turkish interlocutors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All in all, there are about 3000 Indian nationals in Turkey,&nbsp;and a large bulk of these Indian nationals reside in Istanbul and adjacent&nbsp;provinces. A couple are in Ankara, and the remaining are spread all across the country. In the earthquake-hit areas, we do not find the Indians, but we are still reaching out to Indian nationals, and we have information about 130 Indian nationals in this area, most of them confirmed to us that they are safe. There was information about one missing Indian national and it was on Saturday we got the sad news his mortal remains were located and identified we are in process of the earliest possible transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased to his family,"&nbsp;said Dr Virander Paul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that over 13 million people in 10 provinces of Turkey&nbsp;have been impacted which gives an indication of the challenges that the authorities face. Despite the challenges, it gives&nbsp;satisfaction that our coordinators on the Turkish side have been actively&nbsp;assisting us, as our teams on the ground are carrying out their&nbsp;work, from the field hospital in&nbsp;İskenderun in Hatay province or our team in search and rescue&nbsp;in&nbsp;Gaziantep and Antakya.</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>


Pointing to the proactive role played by Indian relief and rescue teams, Indian ambassador to Turkey, Dr Virander Paul while speaking to WION, said that Indian relief and rescue "teams on the ground are carrying out their work" and "focus has mainly been on assisting the Turkish authorities to carry out search and rescue operations.

Pointing to the proactive role played by Indian relief and rescue teams, Indian ambassador to Turkey, Dr Virander Paul while speaking to WION, said that Indian relief and rescue "teams on the ground are carrying out their work" and "focus has mainly been on assisting the Turkish authorities to carry out search and rescue operations." India has shown its unwavering support to the people of Turkey in the wake of the recent earthquake that has affected over 13 million people in 10 provinces. Under operation Dost, 6 C17 aircraft loaded with humanitarian aid, medical equipment, and supplies have arrived in the country since the earthquake that struck the country last Monday. The situation of Indians in Turkey is also being closely monitored. So far, 130 Indians have been accounted for, but in some unfortunate news, one Indian has been confirmed dead. Speaking from Adana, the Turkey ambassador said, "We are in process of the earliest possible transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased to his family." Also read | Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll crosses 33,000 mark The Indian mission on the ground, led by Dr Virander Paul, is in constant communication with Turkish interlocutors to ensure the seamless delivery of aid. On being asked about his stance on Operation Dost, the ambassador said that the focus has mainly been on assisting the Turkish authorities to carry out search and rescue operations for which three teams have been positioned in southern Turkey, in the Hatay province, and two teams in Gaziantep. In addition, the Indian army had set up a hospital at a place called İskenderun in Hatay province. It is a 30-bed hospital, with 99 members on the team. It has anesthetists, orthopedic surgeons, general surgeons, and other specialists. The work of the hospital is progressing very well. He added that the sixth C17s airplanes carrying humanitarian assistance from India landed in Turkey, at Adana airport earlier this morning. The chief coordinator in charge of humanitarian assistance at Adana was with him to receive the flight. This flight contains a variety of relief materials, medical equipment like ECG machines, patient monitors, and other things. The plane has also carried supplies for the teams we already have in position, both the medical team in Hatay province and also the search and rescue teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Also read | Turkey, Syria death toll tops 28,000; UN Relief Chief meets families affected by earthquake On the role played by the Indian mission on the ground, the ambassador said that a team of officials from Ankara and also the Indian consulate in Istanbul are assisting the humanitarian relief from India so that their work is conducted seamlessly. For this purpose, Indian officials are in direct constant touch with Turkish interlocutors. "All in all, there are about 3000 Indian nationals in Turkey, and a large bulk of these Indian nationals reside in Istanbul and adjacent provinces. A couple are in Ankara, and the remaining are spread all across the country. In the earthquake-hit areas, we do not find the Indians, but we are still reaching out to Indian nationals, and we have information about 130 Indian nationals in this area, most of them confirmed to us that they are safe. There was information about one missing Indian national and it was on Saturday we got the sad news his mortal remains were located and identified we are in process of the earliest possible transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased to his family," said Dr Virander Paul. He added that over 13 million people in 10 provinces of Turkey have been impacted which gives an indication of the challenges that the authorities face. Despite the challenges, it gives satisfaction that our coordinators on the Turkish side have been actively assisting us, as our teams on the ground are carrying out their work, from the field hospital in İskenderun in Hatay province or our team in search and rescue in Gaziantep and Antakya. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian teams proactively assisting search and rescue operations, says Indian ambassador to Turkey

In India's Kashmir, Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Bollywood is winning over hearts s the valley witnessed the return of 'cinema' after 30 long years with the release of Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham and Deepika Padukone's 'Pathaan'.

Pathaan: Multiplex running houseful in Srinagar, SRK brings joy in Kashmir

<p>The seventh "Operation Dost" aircraft, carrying more than 23 tonnes of relief aid, landed in earthquake-stricken Syria. Moutaz Douaji, the deputy minister of local administration and the environment, welcomed the plane at the airport in Damascus on Sunday (February 12), as reported by the PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The 7th #OperationDost flight reached Syria with over 23 tonnes of relief material, including gensets, solar lamps, emergency &amp; critical care medicines, and&nbsp;disaster relief consumables. Received at Damascus airport by Deputy Minister of Local Administration and Environment Moutaz Douaji," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.</p>

<p>As per schedule the IAF aircraft first landed in Syria, unloaded its supplies there, then flew to Turkey with emergency and critical care medicines, and other humanitarian supplies. The external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, also mentioned the airplane leaving Ghaziabad on his Twitter account.</p>

<p>He tweeted, "The 7th #OperationDost flight departs for Syria and Turkey. Flight is carrying relief material, medical aid, emergency &amp; critical care medicines, medical equipment &amp; consumables."</p>

<p>The Indian Army also tweeted, "An #IAF C-17 aircraft got airborne last night for #Syria and #Turkiye, bearing relief material and emergency equipment."</p>

<p>The aid being sent for Syria comprises relief materials, sleeping mats, gensets, solar lamps, tarpaulins, blankets, emergency and critical care medicines, and disaster relief consumables, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.</p>

<p>A massive earthquake struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023.&nbsp;The death toll from the quakes that hit southeastern Turkiye and northern Syria stood at 33,179 on Sunday. The United Nations (UN) has estimated a combined total death toll of 50,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the terrible earthquakes and aftershocks that struck the area, India initiated Operation Dost to provide aid to Turkey and Syria.</p>

<p>India is providing Turkey and Syria with a significant amount of humanitarian assistance as part of "Operation Dost".</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 seventh "Operation Dost" aircraft, carrying more than 23 tonnes of relief aid, landed in earthquake-stricken Syria. Moutaz Douaji, the deputy minister of local administration and the environment, welcomed the plane at the airport in Damascus on Sunday (February 12), as reported by the PTI.

The seventh "Operation Dost" aircraft, carrying more than 23 tonnes of relief aid, landed in earthquake-stricken Syria. Moutaz Douaji, the deputy minister of local administration and the environment, welcomed the plane at the airport in Damascus on Sunday (February 12), as reported by the PTI. "The 7th #OperationDost flight reached Syria with over 23 tonnes of relief material, including gensets, solar lamps, emergency & critical care medicines, and disaster relief consumables. Received at Damascus airport by Deputy Minister of Local Administration and Environment Moutaz Douaji," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. As per schedule the IAF aircraft first landed in Syria, unloaded its supplies there, then flew to Turkey with emergency and critical care medicines, and other humanitarian supplies. The external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, also mentioned the airplane leaving Ghaziabad on his Twitter account. He tweeted, "The 7th #OperationDost flight departs for Syria and Turkey. Flight is carrying relief material, medical aid, emergency & critical care medicines, medical equipment & consumables." The Indian Army also tweeted, "An #IAF C-17 aircraft got airborne last night for #Syria and #Turkiye, bearing relief material and emergency equipment." The aid being sent for Syria comprises relief materials, sleeping mats, gensets, solar lamps, tarpaulins, blankets, emergency and critical care medicines, and disaster relief consumables, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. A massive earthquake struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023. The death toll from the quakes that hit southeastern Turkiye and northern Syria stood at 33,179 on Sunday. The United Nations (UN) has estimated a combined total death toll of 50,000. In response to the terrible earthquakes and aftershocks that struck the area, India initiated Operation Dost to provide aid to Turkey and Syria. India is providing Turkey and Syria with a significant amount of humanitarian assistance as part of "Operation Dost". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Operation Dost: India sends 7th flight with 23 tonnes relief material to quake-hit Turkey, Syria

To each his own that seems to be the latest mantra of the Indian Tourism Department as it sets to chart and follow a new tourism discourse for the country and design Taylor-made tourism packages for its international visitors depending on their culture.

Indian Tourism to be more comprehensive, to pitch itself as destination of culture & history

india

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