Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him.

"Choksi is pleased that the Dominican Government has today dropped all charges against him for unlawful entry in May 2021. By doing so they now recognise that there was never any case against him. Choksi was forcibly removed from Antigua against his will by agents of the Indian State, viciously assaulted, and taken to Dominica by boat, where he was again unlawfully handed over to authorities for an offence he never committed. Choksi`s legal team continue to pursue all avenues for justice to redress the human rights violations committed against him.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-another-case-against-mehul-choksi-after-raids-475844">CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids</a>

Choksi hopes that those responsible for his kidnapping from Antigua on May 23,2021 will be brought to justice," reads the statement of Choksi issued by his spokesperson.

Director of Public Prosecutions (AG) in a reply filed on May 17, 2022, to Magistrate Court, informed that `Mehul Chinubhai Choksi` was charged, for that he, on the 24th day of May 2021 at Toucarie Bay, Toucarie in the Parish of St John, in the Commonwealth of Dominica, did enter illegally into the Commonwealth of Dominica at a place to wit `Toucarie Bay, Toucarie` not approved as a point of entry."

The reply of the Director of Prosecutions further stated that "in accordance with the provisions of Section 72(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I do hereby discontinue the above-mentioned proceedings against the said, Mehul Chinubhai Choksi."

Watch |&nbsp;India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen

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After the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Choksi`s lawyer Advocate Vijay Aggarwal told ANI, "Truth always comes out in the end, no matter how hard anyone tries to stop it or hide it. Lies are just temporary delays to the inevitable. It was extremely insensitive for some people to call injuries on my client Mehul Choksi to be fake because of some legal strategy."

Earlier, while Dominica High Court granted interim bail to Choksi on the medical grounds, his lawyer had said that all pending proceedings related to illegal entry against Mehul Choksi will be kept in abeyance till he gets medically fit to come back to Dominica. But according to us, that was not an illegal entry matter, it was a forceful entry case, he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fugitive-businessman-mehul-choksi-returns-to-antigua-after-dominica-court-lets-him-return-for-medical-treatment-398178">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment</a>

Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi who had gone missing from Antigua on May 23, 2021, was soon caught in Dominica. He was charged with illegal entry by the police in Dominica.

The 62-year-old fugitive is wanted in India in connection with a Rs 13,500-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank (PNB).

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Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him.

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi on Saturday got relief from the Commonwealth of Dominica where he was charged with illegal entry by the police. The prosecution of Dominica decided to withdraw/discontinue the legal proceedings in the illegal entry case against him. "Choksi is pleased that the Dominican Government has today dropped all charges against him for unlawful entry in May 2021. By doing so they now recognise that there was never any case against him. Choksi was forcibly removed from Antigua against his will by agents of the Indian State, viciously assaulted, and taken to Dominica by boat, where he was again unlawfully handed over to authorities for an offence he never committed. Choksi`s legal team continue to pursue all avenues for justice to redress the human rights violations committed against him. Also read | CBI files another case against Mehul Choksi after raids Choksi hopes that those responsible for his kidnapping from Antigua on May 23,2021 will be brought to justice," reads the statement of Choksi issued by his spokesperson. Director of Public Prosecutions (AG) in a reply filed on May 17, 2022, to Magistrate Court, informed that `Mehul Chinubhai Choksi` was charged, for that he, on the 24th day of May 2021 at Toucarie Bay, Toucarie in the Parish of St John, in the Commonwealth of Dominica, did enter illegally into the Commonwealth of Dominica at a place to wit `Toucarie Bay, Toucarie` not approved as a point of entry." The reply of the Director of Prosecutions further stated that "in accordance with the provisions of Section 72(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I do hereby discontinue the above-mentioned proceedings against the said, Mehul Chinubhai Choksi." Watch | India to Dominica court: Mehul Choksi is still an Indian citizen After the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Choksi`s lawyer Advocate Vijay Aggarwal told ANI, "Truth always comes out in the end, no matter how hard anyone tries to stop it or hide it. Lies are just temporary delays to the inevitable. It was extremely insensitive for some people to call injuries on my client Mehul Choksi to be fake because of some legal strategy." Earlier, while Dominica High Court granted interim bail to Choksi on the medical grounds, his lawyer had said that all pending proceedings related to illegal entry against Mehul Choksi will be kept in abeyance till he gets medically fit to come back to Dominica. But according to us, that was not an illegal entry matter, it was a forceful entry case, he added. Also read | Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi returns to Antigua after Dominica court lets him return for medical treatment Fugitive Businessman Mehul Choksi who had gone missing from Antigua on May 23, 2021, was soon caught in Dominica. He was charged with illegal entry by the police in Dominica. The 62-year-old fugitive is wanted in India in connection with a Rs 13,500-crore fraud in the Punjab National Bank (PNB). 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.

Dominica withdraws illegal entry case against Mehul Choksi

India and Israel are celebrating 30 years of diplomatic ties. In the last few month, multiple events have been organized to mark decades of relationship. Watch this report by WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal.

The India-Israel film connect: Mural unveiled at New Delhi to celebrate bilateral ties

The Ukraine war has tainted many relations and also their long-standing deals but India has chosen a different path. New Delhi believes that the bridge to peace does not go through the path of sanctions and blame game.

India-Russia military deal: Kamov KA-31 aircraft deal on track?

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto is currently on his maiden visit to the US. India has now slammed his Kashmir remark at the UNSC.

India slams Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto's Kashmir remark at UNSC

The Indian luxury car market is witnessing a strong revival in demand after sluggish sales. Electric, Hybrid cars are gaining popularity.

Indian luxury car market: Strong revival in demand

India's response to the crude-oil shock has been quick. It seems to be visibly changing its oil-supply chain. The most visible change is the absence of the US from the top suppliers league in Q2CY22.

How India's oil supply is changing? India's oil supply from Russia surge

Suzuki Motor's Indian arm is planning to expand its operations in India. Suzuki's new plant will create 13000 jobs for the Indian market.

Suzuki Motor's Indian arm to expand: New plant to create 13000 jobs for the Indian market

A joint operation between India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has led to the seizure of 218 packets of high-grade heroin, from two fishing boats. In what is being called an intelligence-driven operation, ICG ship 'Sujeet' along with its crew and&nbsp;DRI officials maintained a strict vigil over India's Exclusive Economic Zone, since 7th May. It was on 18th May that they intercepted Indian fishing boats 'Prince' and 'Little Jesus' carrying the contraband, off Lakshadweep islands in India's Western coast.&nbsp;

According to authorities, they launched 'Operation Khojbeen' based on specific intelligence that two Indian boats would be sailing from the coast of Tamil Nadu and would receive narcotics in huge quantity somewhere in the Arabian sea, during the second or third week of May.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-looking-to-construct-military-bases-in-pakistan-report-480699" hreflang="en">China looking to construct military outposts in Pakistan: Report</a>

On being questioned, the boats' crew confessed to have received heroin in huge quantities while at the high seas and having concealed it in their boats.&nbsp;

After being taken to Coast guard Headquarters, Kochi, searching of the boats revealed 218 packets of heroin, each of which contained&nbsp;carried 1kg of the drug each. The seized contraband is estimated to have a value Rs1526 crores (Rs 15.26 billion), in the international market. It was added that seizure proceedings under the provisions of NDPS Act, 1985 are being undertaken by the DRI. As part of investigations, further searches are also underway at multiple locations, they added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-first-case-of-omicron-ba4-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-new-covid-variant-480746" hreflang="en">India reports first case of Omicron BA.4. Here’s all you need to know</a>

According to the agency, this is the fourth major drug bust by DRI in the past one month. Earlier, DRI recovered 205.6 kg heroin from a commercial import consignment of gypsum powder at the Kandla port on 20th April, 396 kg of yarn (laced with heroin) at Pipavav port on 29th April, and 62kg heroin at Air Cargo Complex, IGI New Delhi on 10th May, which are collectively valued at approximately Rs. 2,500 crores (Rs&nbsp;25 billion) in international illicit market.

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A joint operation between India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has led to the seizure of 218 packets of high-grade heroin, from two fishing boats.

A joint operation between India's Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has led to the seizure of 218 packets of high-grade heroin, from two fishing boats. In what is being called an intelligence-driven operation, ICG ship 'Sujeet' along with its crew and DRI officials maintained a strict vigil over India's Exclusive Economic Zone, since 7th May. It was on 18th May that they intercepted Indian fishing boats 'Prince' and 'Little Jesus' carrying the contraband, off Lakshadweep islands in India's Western coast. According to authorities, they launched 'Operation Khojbeen' based on specific intelligence that two Indian boats would be sailing from the coast of Tamil Nadu and would receive narcotics in huge quantity somewhere in the Arabian sea, during the second or third week of May. Also read | China looking to construct military outposts in Pakistan: Report On being questioned, the boats' crew confessed to have received heroin in huge quantities while at the high seas and having concealed it in their boats. After being taken to Coast guard Headquarters, Kochi, searching of the boats revealed 218 packets of heroin, each of which contained carried 1kg of the drug each. The seized contraband is estimated to have a value Rs1526 crores (Rs 15.26 billion), in the international market. It was added that seizure proceedings under the provisions of NDPS Act, 1985 are being undertaken by the DRI. As part of investigations, further searches are also underway at multiple locations, they added. Also read | India reports first case of Omicron BA.4. Here’s all you need to know According to the agency, this is the fourth major drug bust by DRI in the past one month. Earlier, DRI recovered 205.6 kg heroin from a commercial import consignment of gypsum powder at the Kandla port on 20th April, 396 kg of yarn (laced with heroin) at Pipavav port on 29th April, and 62kg heroin at Air Cargo Complex, IGI New Delhi on 10th May, which are collectively valued at approximately Rs. 2,500 crores (Rs 25 billion) in international illicit market. 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.

218kg heroin worth Rs 15.26 billion seized from fishing boats off India's west coast

Nearly two years after the deadly Galwan clashes in India's union territory of Ladakh, its neighbour China is now resorting to provocative moves in the region. The People's Liberation Army is building bridges in eastern Ladakh to improve connectivity for its troops

China provokes again near India border

India's power ministry on Wednesday said it would cut domestic fuel supply to state government-run utilities by 5% if they do not import coal for blending by June 15, as officials struggle to address rising power demand.

A heatwave pushed power use to a record high in April, leading to the worst electricity crisis in more than six years and forcing India to reverse a policy to slash coal imports.

The power ministry said lower imports by states was "the cause of the stress in the availability of coal," and said states' efforts were "not satisfactory." Coal imports for blending fell by a fifth to 8.3 million tonnes during the financial year through March, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heatwave-hit-delhi-grapples-with-water-shortage-no-response-from-haryana-478935">Delhi grapples with water shortage amid heatwave</a>

"If blending with domestic coal is not started by 15.06.2022 then the domestic allocation of the concerned defaulter thermal power plants will be further reduced by 5%," the power ministry said in a statement.

Also watch |&nbsp;India provides shipments of petrol to Sri Lanka amid economic crisis

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India had set state and federal government-run utilities a target to import 10% of their coal needs for blending with domestic coal.

The power ministry had asked all utilities to ensure delivery of 50% of the allocated quantity by June 30, another 40% by end-August and the remaining 10% by the end of October.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/we-cant-drill-our-way-to-energy-security-479958/amp">We can’t drill our way to energy security</a>

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It said state government-run utilities, most of which are debt-laden, will have to import more coal to fire their power plants due to reduced local supply if they delay placing orders and supplies do not arrive by June 15.

"All the defaulter generating companies would have to import coal for blending purpose to the extent of 15%," the ministry said.

"Not much blending has taken place in the months of April and May," it noted, and said plants which have not yet started blending must ensure they use a 15% blend of coal until October and a 10% blend from November until March 2023.

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India's power ministry on Wednesday said it would cut domestic fuel supply to state government-run utilities by 5% if they do not import coal for blending by June 15, as officials struggle to address rising power demand.

India's power ministry on Wednesday said it would cut domestic fuel supply to state government-run utilities by 5% if they do not import coal for blending by June 15, as officials struggle to address rising power demand. A heatwave pushed power use to a record high in April, leading to the worst electricity crisis in more than six years and forcing India to reverse a policy to slash coal imports. The power ministry said lower imports by states was "the cause of the stress in the availability of coal," and said states' efforts were "not satisfactory." Coal imports for blending fell by a fifth to 8.3 million tonnes during the financial year through March, the ministry said. Also read | Delhi grapples with water shortage amid heatwave "If blending with domestic coal is not started by 15.06.2022 then the domestic allocation of the concerned defaulter thermal power plants will be further reduced by 5%," the power ministry said in a statement. Also watch | India provides shipments of petrol to Sri Lanka amid economic crisis India had set state and federal government-run utilities a target to import 10% of their coal needs for blending with domestic coal. The power ministry had asked all utilities to ensure delivery of 50% of the allocated quantity by June 30, another 40% by end-August and the remaining 10% by the end of October. Also read | We can’t drill our way to energy security It said state government-run utilities, most of which are debt-laden, will have to import more coal to fire their power plants due to reduced local supply if they delay placing orders and supplies do not arrive by June 15. "All the defaulter generating companies would have to import coal for blending purpose to the extent of 15%," the ministry said. "Not much blending has taken place in the months of April and May," it noted, and said plants which have not yet started blending must ensure they use a 15% blend of coal until October and a 10% blend from November until March 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India warns of fuel-supply cuts to utilities if coal imports delayed

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam.

The scam involved taking land from unemployed youths on the pretext of providing them government jobs.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-sentences-indian-politician-lalu-prasad-to-five-years-in-prison-in-fodder-scam-case-455047">&nbsp;CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case</a>

A CBI source said that a fresh case was recently lodged against Lalu and others for accepting bribes from unemployed youths and cheating them on the pretext of providing them jobs in the government sector.

"Yadav, when he was the Union minister, through his aide or directly told the innocent persons that he would help them get government jobs. And they took land from the job seekers. However, the jobs were not provided to all," the source said.

When asked how many such land pieces were acquired by Lalu and others through this, the source said they were making a list.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-arunachal-jdu-will-break-in-bihar-as-well-tej-pratap-yadav-352556">After Arunachal, JD(U) will break in Bihar as well: Tej Pratap Yadav</a>

The CBI officials are also recording the statements of those who are present at the locations.

This comes weeks after the RJD leader was granted bail in the Rs 950-crore fodder scam case. He has already been convicted in five cases of the fodder scam.

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam. The scam involved taking land from unemployed youths on the pretext of providing them government jobs. Also read | CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case A CBI source said that a fresh case was recently lodged against Lalu and others for accepting bribes from unemployed youths and cheating them on the pretext of providing them jobs in the government sector. "Yadav, when he was the Union minister, through his aide or directly told the innocent persons that he would help them get government jobs. And they took land from the job seekers. However, the jobs were not provided to all," the source said. When asked how many such land pieces were acquired by Lalu and others through this, the source said they were making a list. Also read | After Arunachal, JD(U) will break in Bihar as well: Tej Pratap Yadav The CBI officials are also recording the statements of those who are present at the locations. This comes weeks after the RJD leader was granted bail in the Rs 950-crore fodder scam case. He has already been convicted in five cases of the fodder scam. 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: Lalu Prasad, daughter Misa raided by CBI in 'land for job' scam

When there are considerable differences in the shape and size of the feet of people from within India, how can a European or American size standard shoe be used to comfortably fit 1.4 billion Indians? It was this problem statement that prompted India's Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), to develop India's home-grown sizing standards for shoes and similar closed footwear.&nbsp;

Speaking at the 75th&nbsp;anniversary celebratory event of the CLRI, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh made a mention of the pan-India 3-D foot-mapping project that has been underway, to capture the imprints and various parameters of the feet of nearly 1 lakh Indians. It is based on the data collected from this survey, under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), that India's indigenous footwear sizing standard will be developed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-launch-by-2022-end-gaganyaan-manned-mission-in-2024-minister-jitendra-singh-480460">Chandrayaan-3 launch by 2022-end, Gaganyaan manned mission in 2024: Minister Jitendra Singh</a>

WION spoke to Dr. Sreeram, Director, CLRI, to understand the finer aspects of the 3-D mapping project and the roll out of the new Indian sizing standard. He revealed that over 1 lakh people, from across 73 districts of India, within the age group of 5 to 55, have been surveyed (foot 3-D scanning). Currently, the statistical analysis of the foot-mapping data is underway to gather the fine details.

Queried on the unique aspects that the 3-D mapping will be covering, Dr. Sreeram told WION about how Indian feet predominantly have more girth (wider front portion) than those of European feet. In addition to length and girth, this mapping would also gather data across 29 other parameters of the Indian foot. While three parameters are adequate to develop a sizing standard, the remaining ones are meant to help in advanced studies.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian luxury car market: Strong revival in demand

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The statistical study will be completed in two months or so, following which we will provide the dimensions based on the Indian footwear sizing. "Our Indian Sizing standard for footwear will be published in the Bureau of Indian Standards by the end of 2022, and by then, shoes and closed footwear for men, women, and children will be available in our markets, based on Indian sizing," Dr. Sreeram explained.&nbsp;

However, this new Indian sizing standard is voluntary, and not all brands have to necessarily adopt this. But CLRI believes that, even though the new sizing standard is voluntary, the brands with good sales across India would adopt the standard to satisfy customer needs.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-meet-environmental-standards-indias-leather-industry-aims-at-net-zero-carbon-footprint-within-25-years-480464">To meet environmental standards, India's leather industry aims at net-zero carbon footprint within 25 years</a>

Emphasizing on the Leather footwear sector in India, Dr, Jitendra Singh spoke about the sector having employed nearly 50,000 people at the time of independence and how it had grown to employ 5 million people as of today, while contributing immensely to the economy. Regarding the future of the leather industry, he called for innovation by start-ups and touched upon the need to use legacy knowledge to make customers understand the advantages of leather footwear, over synthetic ones. "Human skin is more compatible with leather when compared to synthetic materials," he said, even referring to some medical studies regarding diabetic feet. Regarding the roadmap for the next 25 years, Dr. Singh said that the leather footwear industry in India needed to think of achieving a net zero carbon footprint, to remain competitive in the market.

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When there are considerable differences in the shape and size of the feet of people from within India, how can a European or American size standard shoe be used to comfortably fit 1.

When there are considerable differences in the shape and size of the feet of people from within India, how can a European or American size standard shoe be used to comfortably fit 1.4 billion Indians? It was this problem statement that prompted India's Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), to develop India's home-grown sizing standards for shoes and similar closed footwear. Speaking at the 75th anniversary celebratory event of the CLRI, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh made a mention of the pan-India 3-D foot-mapping project that has been underway, to capture the imprints and various parameters of the feet of nearly 1 lakh Indians. It is based on the data collected from this survey, under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), that India's indigenous footwear sizing standard will be developed. Also read | Chandrayaan-3 launch by 2022-end, Gaganyaan manned mission in 2024: Minister Jitendra Singh WION spoke to Dr. Sreeram, Director, CLRI, to understand the finer aspects of the 3-D mapping project and the roll out of the new Indian sizing standard. He revealed that over 1 lakh people, from across 73 districts of India, within the age group of 5 to 55, have been surveyed (foot 3-D scanning). Currently, the statistical analysis of the foot-mapping data is underway to gather the fine details. Queried on the unique aspects that the 3-D mapping will be covering, Dr. Sreeram told WION about how Indian feet predominantly have more girth (wider front portion) than those of European feet. In addition to length and girth, this mapping would also gather data across 29 other parameters of the Indian foot. While three parameters are adequate to develop a sizing standard, the remaining ones are meant to help in advanced studies. Watch | Indian luxury car market: Strong revival in demand The statistical study will be completed in two months or so, following which we will provide the dimensions based on the Indian footwear sizing. "Our Indian Sizing standard for footwear will be published in the Bureau of Indian Standards by the end of 2022, and by then, shoes and closed footwear for men, women, and children will be available in our markets, based on Indian sizing," Dr. Sreeram explained. However, this new Indian sizing standard is voluntary, and not all brands have to necessarily adopt this. But CLRI believes that, even though the new sizing standard is voluntary, the brands with good sales across India would adopt the standard to satisfy customer needs. Also read | To meet environmental standards, India's leather industry aims at net-zero carbon footprint within 25 years Emphasizing on the Leather footwear sector in India, Dr, Jitendra Singh spoke about the sector having employed nearly 50,000 people at the time of independence and how it had grown to employ 5 million people as of today, while contributing immensely to the economy. Regarding the future of the leather industry, he called for innovation by start-ups and touched upon the need to use legacy knowledge to make customers understand the advantages of leather footwear, over synthetic ones. "Human skin is more compatible with leather when compared to synthetic materials," he said, even referring to some medical studies regarding diabetic feet. Regarding the roadmap for the next 25 years, Dr. Singh said that the leather footwear industry in India needed to think of achieving a net zero carbon footprint, to remain competitive in the market. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's own footwear sizing system to be ready by the end of this year

US not among India's top oil suppliers, import from Russia go up

China has begun building a second bridge in Pangong Tso. Reports say the PLA wants "multiple routes" to counter the Indian forces. What does China's provocations mean for India's strategic autonomy? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China begins building second bridge in Eastern Ladakh

In pics: Assam floods, more than 500,000 people fled their homes

Torrential rains have battered India's Northeastern state of Assam leaving nine people dead and displacing almost half a million people. Incessant rainfall wreaking havoc in the state leaving houses inundated and roads completely submerged in the water forcing the people to rely on boats for being ferried from one place to another

Torrential rains ravage 1400 villages of India's Assam state

Spells of heat have always been a feature of India's pre-monsoon period but climate change is intensifying these heat spells now. A study released by the United Kingdom Met office states that climate crisis has made the heat waves in Northwestern India and Pakistan a hundred times more likely

Record-breaking heat waves in India, temperature reaches 49°C in Delhi

Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen on Thursday bagged a gold medal after beating Jutamas Jitpong of Thailand 5-0 in the 52kg final of the Women`s World Boxing Championships in Istanbul. Nikhat joins six-time champion M.C Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny R.L and Lekha C. to become the fifth Indian woman boxer to win the world title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-2022-pv-sindhu-kidambi-srikanth-get-off-to-winning-starts-saina-nehwal-crashes-out-480165">Thailand Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth get off to winning starts, Saina Nehwal crashes out</a>

Earlier on Wednesday, Nikhat had pulled off a comprehensive 5-0 win against Brazil`s Caroline De Almeida in the 52kg semifinal.

Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen on Thursday bagged a gold medal after beating Jutamas Jitpong of Thailand 5-0 in the 52kg final of the Women`s World Boxing Championships in Istanbul.

Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen on Thursday bagged a gold medal after beating Jutamas Jitpong of Thailand 5-0 in the 52kg final of the Women`s World Boxing Championships in Istanbul. Nikhat joins six-time champion M.C Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny R.L and Lekha C. to become the fifth Indian woman boxer to win the world title. ALSO READ | Thailand Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth get off to winning starts, Saina Nehwal crashes out Earlier on Wednesday, Nikhat had pulled off a comprehensive 5-0 win against Brazil`s Caroline De Almeida in the 52kg semifinal.

Women's World Boxing: India's young star Nikhat Zareen wins gold, defeats Jutamas Jitpong in 52kg final

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday participated in a virtual meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers. The BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting was chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and was attended by South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, Brazilian Foreign Minister Carlos Franca and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, apart from EAM Jaishankar.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar participates in BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting

Gravitas: China begins to build second bridge in Eastern Ladakh

In the next 25 years, India's leather industry aims to become net-zero to meet the environmental norms.

Indian Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said that with an aim to consciously reduce carbon emissions from the leather industry in the country, India will be offering attractive financial support to start-ups to come up with innovative and market-friendly leather products.

The minister said so while addressing the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute in Chennai on Thursday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fir-filed-against-indian-devotee-who-took-his-dog-to-kedarnath-temple-480397" hreflang="en">FIR filed against Indian devotee who took his dog to Kedarnath temple</a>

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pitch for new innovations and next-generation technologies, Singh said, the sustainability of the leather sector is likely to emerge as the new challenge for CSIR-CLRI (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Leather Research Institute) in its journey from the platinum to the centenary.

He said the new vision for leather research and industry in India during the next 25 years may need to be based on sustainability, net-zero carbon footprint, gaining total recyclability of leather-based materials, bio-economy of animal skin-derived products, and ensuring income parity for workers, besides brand building.

According to a UN Study, per square meter of leather emits around 17 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) after the slaughterhouse section of the leather supply chain.

As per to the Indian minister, the project will be implemented in 73 districts in the first phase.

"The carbon footprint of leather processing in India needs to approach zero levels and the bio-economy of animal skin-derived products is the new mantra of the time," the minister said, adding that the carrying capacity requirements of the leather sector in locations like Tamil Nadu demand the implementation of Zero Liquid Discharge as the enforced environmental norm, which is under discussion.

India is looking to design and develop leather footwear into foot care solutions with foot hygiene and wearer comfort as unique selling properties.

The country is also on the path to preparing customised footwear for Indians by using 3D technology to scan a person's feet to make their footwear.

"There are as many as half a million cells in the palm of feet that enable the sweating process and leather enjoys an unmatched potential for transpiration," Singh said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-industry-maven-ratan-tata-arrives-at-hotel-in-tata-nano-car-without-bodyguards-wins-the-internet-480368" hreflang="en">Indian industry icon Ratan Tata arrives at hotel in Tata Nano car without bodyguards, wins the internet</a>

The Minister also pointed out that diabetic footwear is one such product that ensures a better quality of life due to the reduction in the abnormal distribution of foot plantar pressure. Foot plantar pressure is the pressure field that acts between the foot and the support surface during everyday locomotor activities.

Singh expressed satisfaction that in 2021, export realisation from the leather sector is valued at Rs 40,000 crores.

The Indian minister said that collagen-based innovative biomaterials for applications in human health care are new opportunities and they could become co-products of leather if next-generation leather-making technologies avoid contaminating skin-based matrix materials with lime, sulfide, and many other sensitive chemicals.

"There is a possibility for CLRI to emerge as the game-changer in the knowledge domain and to make the leather sector matter even more for the new India of the future," he said.

In 1947, the Indian leather sector provided livelihood opportunities to about 50,000 people, but today it supports the livelihood of more than 45 lakh people in the country.

The Indian leather sector has made tangible and traceable contributions to social equity. It has been scientifically assessed that technology utilisation in the footwear industry has significantly contributed to women's empowerment, he said, lauding the social equity benefits of women empowerment emanating from the leather industry since 1950.

The Minister also lauded the role of the CLRI in helping the tannery sector in Tamil Nadu to restore operations when the Supreme Court ordered the closure of about 400 tanneries in 1996 through the innovative deployment of "Do Ecology" solutions in all the 764 functional tanneries within nine months.

He concluded that this was a landmark contribution to public-funded research in the country and there are several contributions of CLRI that have formed an integral part of the developments of the leather sector in India.

In the next 25 years, India's leather industry aims to become net-zero to meet the environmental norms. Indian Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said that with an aim to consciously reduce carbon emissions from the leather industry in the country, India will be offering attractive financial support to start-ups to come up with innovative and market-friendly leather products.

In the next 25 years, India's leather industry aims to become net-zero to meet the environmental norms. Indian Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said that with an aim to consciously reduce carbon emissions from the leather industry in the country, India will be offering attractive financial support to start-ups to come up with innovative and market-friendly leather products. The minister said so while addressing the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute in Chennai on Thursday. Also read | FIR filed against Indian devotee who took his dog to Kedarnath temple Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pitch for new innovations and next-generation technologies, Singh said, the sustainability of the leather sector is likely to emerge as the new challenge for CSIR-CLRI (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Leather Research Institute) in its journey from the platinum to the centenary. He said the new vision for leather research and industry in India during the next 25 years may need to be based on sustainability, net-zero carbon footprint, gaining total recyclability of leather-based materials, bio-economy of animal skin-derived products, and ensuring income parity for workers, besides brand building. According to a UN Study, per square meter of leather emits around 17 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) after the slaughterhouse section of the leather supply chain. As per to the Indian minister, the project will be implemented in 73 districts in the first phase. "The carbon footprint of leather processing in India needs to approach zero levels and the bio-economy of animal skin-derived products is the new mantra of the time," the minister said, adding that the carrying capacity requirements of the leather sector in locations like Tamil Nadu demand the implementation of Zero Liquid Discharge as the enforced environmental norm, which is under discussion. India is looking to design and develop leather footwear into foot care solutions with foot hygiene and wearer comfort as unique selling properties. The country is also on the path to preparing customised footwear for Indians by using 3D technology to scan a person's feet to make their footwear. "There are as many as half a million cells in the palm of feet that enable the sweating process and leather enjoys an unmatched potential for transpiration," Singh said. Also read | Indian industry icon Ratan Tata arrives at hotel in Tata Nano car without bodyguards, wins the internet The Minister also pointed out that diabetic footwear is one such product that ensures a better quality of life due to the reduction in the abnormal distribution of foot plantar pressure. Foot plantar pressure is the pressure field that acts between the foot and the support surface during everyday locomotor activities. Singh expressed satisfaction that in 2021, export realisation from the leather sector is valued at Rs 40,000 crores. The Indian minister said that collagen-based innovative biomaterials for applications in human health care are new opportunities and they could become co-products of leather if next-generation leather-making technologies avoid contaminating skin-based matrix materials with lime, sulfide, and many other sensitive chemicals. "There is a possibility for CLRI to emerge as the game-changer in the knowledge domain and to make the leather sector matter even more for the new India of the future," he said. In 1947, the Indian leather sector provided livelihood opportunities to about 50,000 people, but today it supports the livelihood of more than 45 lakh people in the country. The Indian leather sector has made tangible and traceable contributions to social equity. It has been scientifically assessed that technology utilisation in the footwear industry has significantly contributed to women's empowerment, he said, lauding the social equity benefits of women empowerment emanating from the leather industry since 1950. The Minister also lauded the role of the CLRI in helping the tannery sector in Tamil Nadu to restore operations when the Supreme Court ordered the closure of about 400 tanneries in 1996 through the innovative deployment of "Do Ecology" solutions in all the 764 functional tanneries within nine months. He concluded that this was a landmark contribution to public-funded research in the country and there are several contributions of CLRI that have formed an integral part of the developments of the leather sector in India.

To meet environmental standards, India's leather industry aims at net-zero carbon footprint within 25 years

Voicing concern over hoarding and discrimination, India called out the West and said on Wednesday that food grains should not meet the fate of the Covid shots, media reports said. This comes as there is an ‘unjustified increase’ in food prices. The decision to restrict wheat exports has been taken so that it can truly respond to people in need, it stressed. &nbsp;

On Wednesday, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, said, "A number of low-income societies are today confronted with the twin challenges of rising costs and difficulty in access to food grains. Even those like India, who have adequate stocks, have seen an unjustified increase in food prices. It is clear that hoarding and speculation is at work. We cannot allow this to pass unchallenged."&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signs-fertilizer-pacts-with-jordan-as-ukraine-russia-conflict-impacts-supplies-prices-480048" hreflang="en">India signs fertilizer pacts with Jordan as Ukraine crisis impacts supplies</a>

At the ministerial meeting on 'Global Food Security Call to Action', Muraleedharan gave the statement. &nbsp;

The meeting was chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken under the US Presidency of the UN Security Council for May. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAtUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtUN</a> 
 
📺Watch: Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. V. Muraleedharan <a href="https://twitter.com/MOS_MEA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MOS_MEA</a> delivers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>'s national statement at the Ministerial Meeting on Global Food Security Call to Action ⤵️<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/VMBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VMBJP</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wu23OR39UG">pic.twitter.com/Wu23OR39UG</a>
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For the first time since announcement on May 13, India spoke over the issue of the wheat export ban during the meeting in the UN.

“Indian government has recognised the spike in global prices of wheat which put our food security and those of our neighbours and other vulnerable countries at risk. We are committed to ensuring that such adverse impact on food security is effectively mitigated and the vulnerable cushioned against sudden changes in the global market,” Muraleedharan said. &nbsp;

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"In order to manage our own overall food security and support the needs of neighbouring and other vulnerable developing countries, we have announced some measures regarding wheat exports on May 13, 2022," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"Let me make it clear that these measures allow for export on the basis of approvals to those countries, which are required to meet their food security demands. This will be done at the request of the governments concerned. Such a policy will ensure that we will truly respond to those who are most in need," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"It is necessary for all of us to adequately appreciate the importance of equity, affordability and accessibility when it comes to food grains. We have already seen to our great cost how these principles were disregarded in the case of Covid-19 vaccines. Open markets must not become an argument to perpetuate inequity and promote discrimination," Muraleedharan added.&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Voicing concern over hoarding and discrimination, India called out the West and said on Wednesday that food grains should not meet the fate of the Covid shots, media reports said.

Voicing concern over hoarding and discrimination, India called out the West and said on Wednesday that food grains should not meet the fate of the Covid shots, media reports said. This comes as there is an ‘unjustified increase’ in food prices. The decision to restrict wheat exports has been taken so that it can truly respond to people in need, it stressed. On Wednesday, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, said, "A number of low-income societies are today confronted with the twin challenges of rising costs and difficulty in access to food grains. Even those like India, who have adequate stocks, have seen an unjustified increase in food prices. It is clear that hoarding and speculation is at work. We cannot allow this to pass unchallenged." Also Read: India signs fertilizer pacts with Jordan as Ukraine crisis impacts supplies At the ministerial meeting on 'Global Food Security Call to Action', Muraleedharan gave the statement. The meeting was chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken under the US Presidency of the UN Security Council for May. #IndiaAtUN 📺Watch: Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. V. Muraleedharan @MOS_MEA delivers #India's national statement at the Ministerial Meeting on Global Food Security Call to Action ⤵️@MEAIndia @VMBJP pic.twitter.com/Wu23OR39UG — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) May 18, 2022 × For the first time since announcement on May 13, India spoke over the issue of the wheat export ban during the meeting in the UN. “Indian government has recognised the spike in global prices of wheat which put our food security and those of our neighbours and other vulnerable countries at risk. We are committed to ensuring that such adverse impact on food security is effectively mitigated and the vulnerable cushioned against sudden changes in the global market,” Muraleedharan said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE "In order to manage our own overall food security and support the needs of neighbouring and other vulnerable developing countries, we have announced some measures regarding wheat exports on May 13, 2022," he said. "Let me make it clear that these measures allow for export on the basis of approvals to those countries, which are required to meet their food security demands. This will be done at the request of the governments concerned. Such a policy will ensure that we will truly respond to those who are most in need," he said. "It is necessary for all of us to adequately appreciate the importance of equity, affordability and accessibility when it comes to food grains. We have already seen to our great cost how these principles were disregarded in the case of Covid-19 vaccines. Open markets must not become an argument to perpetuate inequity and promote discrimination," Muraleedharan added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Wheat export ban: India says measure to help nations in need, food grains shouldn't meet Covid shots' fate

Foreign Ministers from BRICS nations are all set to hold a virtual meeting and dialogue ahead of the summit. The meet will be held in the shadow of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The meeting will be hosted by Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and Indian EAM S Jaishankar will also participate.

Indian EAM to attend BRICS foreign ministers meet

The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the civil court in Varanasi to not proceed with hearing the Gyanvapi case till it takes up the matter on Friday.

A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud, Surya Kant and PS Narashima was informed by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain that lead counsel Hari Shankar Jain for the Hindu devotees in the civil suit in the case is indisposed.

Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain urged the court to take up the matter for hearing on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explainer-gyanvapi-mosque-survey-supreme-court-to-hear-mosques-appeal-on-may-17-479626">Gyanvapi: Supreme Court to hear appeal against videography survey on May 17</a>

Senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Committee of Management Anjuman Intezamia Masjid, said several applications have been filed across the country to "seal" various mosques and in the Gyanvapi case in Varanasi the hearing is going on and an application has been filed to "demolish" a wall around the 'wazukhana' (ablution room).

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India to re-think sedition law

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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lord-shiva-idol-found-in-gyanvapi-mosque-well-hindu-lawyer-claims-479423">Lord Shiva idol found in a well located in Gyanvapi mosque complex, lawyer claims</a>

Ahmadi said he cannot oppose adjournment on the grounds of health of a counsel but an undertaking should be given that Hindu devotees will not proceed with the civil court proceedings.

Advocate Vishnu said they are assuring the bench that the Hindu parties would not proceed with the hearing before the civil court at Varanasi. The bench recorded the submission and passed the order asking the civil court to not proceed with the hearing in the case till Friday, when it will hear the matter.

On May 17, the top court had directed the district magistrate of Varanasi to ensure protection of an area inside the Gyanvapi-Shringar Gauri complex where a 'Shivling' is said to have been found during a survey and allowed Muslims to offer 'namaz' and perform 'religious observances.'

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The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the civil court in Varanasi to not proceed with hearing the Gyanvapi case till it takes up the matter on Friday. A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud, Surya Kant and PS Narashima was informed by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain that lead counsel Hari Shankar Jain for the Hindu devotees in the civil suit in the case is indisposed.

The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the civil court in Varanasi to not proceed with hearing the Gyanvapi case till it takes up the matter on Friday. A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud, Surya Kant and PS Narashima was informed by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain that lead counsel Hari Shankar Jain for the Hindu devotees in the civil suit in the case is indisposed. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain urged the court to take up the matter for hearing on Friday. Also read | Gyanvapi: Supreme Court to hear appeal against videography survey on May 17 Senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Committee of Management Anjuman Intezamia Masjid, said several applications have been filed across the country to "seal" various mosques and in the Gyanvapi case in Varanasi the hearing is going on and an application has been filed to "demolish" a wall around the 'wazukhana' (ablution room). Watch | Gravitas: India to re-think sedition law Also read | Lord Shiva idol found in a well located in Gyanvapi mosque complex, lawyer claims Ahmadi said he cannot oppose adjournment on the grounds of health of a counsel but an undertaking should be given that Hindu devotees will not proceed with the civil court proceedings. Advocate Vishnu said they are assuring the bench that the Hindu parties would not proceed with the hearing before the civil court at Varanasi. The bench recorded the submission and passed the order asking the civil court to not proceed with the hearing in the case till Friday, when it will hear the matter. On May 17, the top court had directed the district magistrate of Varanasi to ensure protection of an area inside the Gyanvapi-Shringar Gauri complex where a 'Shivling' is said to have been found during a survey and allowed Muslims to offer 'namaz' and perform 'religious observances.' 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.

SC to hear challenge to Gyanvapi mosque survey on Friday, asks Varanasi court to desist from hearing today

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