With threat from China on its mind, India is looking to make the first unit of S-400 Triumf advanced surface-to-air missile defence system operational by this April. &nbsp;

All the five units of the system will be deployed in strategic areas to ward off China threat, according to official sources. All these five units may become operational by next year. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-inks-deal-with-uae-to-sell-mid-range-surface-to-air-missiles-445289">South Korea inks deal with UAE to sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles</a>

The Russia-made S-400 system can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km. It was bought by India in a $5-billion deal, inked in October 2018. &nbsp;

The advance consignments of two S-400 systems have already arrived in India from Russia. The work to assemble the systems is going on in full swing, by the Indian teams who have been trained by Russia. &nbsp;

The first squadron deliveries are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The equipment is being brought to India through both sea and air routes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-conducts-fourth-test-fires-missile-from-pyongyang-airport-says-south-korea-445282">North Korea conducts fourth test, fires missile from Pyongyang airport</a>

The air defence system would give India an edge in South Asia as it would be able to take out enemy aircraft and cruise missiles. &nbsp;

The S-400 missile defence system is equipped with four different missiles, which can engage enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles&nbsp;and AWACS planes at 400 km, 250 km, the medium-range 120 km and the short-range 40 km. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With threat from China on its mind, India is looking to make the first unit of S-400 Triumf advanced surface-to-air missile defence system operational by this April.

With threat from China on its mind, India is looking to make the first unit of S-400 Triumf advanced surface-to-air missile defence system operational by this April. All the five units of the system will be deployed in strategic areas to ward off China threat, according to official sources. All these five units may become operational by next year. Also Read: South Korea inks deal with UAE to sell mid-range surface-to-air missiles The Russia-made S-400 system can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km. It was bought by India in a $5-billion deal, inked in October 2018. The advance consignments of two S-400 systems have already arrived in India from Russia. The work to assemble the systems is going on in full swing, by the Indian teams who have been trained by Russia. The first squadron deliveries are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The equipment is being brought to India through both sea and air routes. Also Read: North Korea conducts fourth test, fires missile from Pyongyang airport The air defence system would give India an edge in South Asia as it would be able to take out enemy aircraft and cruise missiles. The S-400 missile defence system is equipped with four different missiles, which can engage enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles and AWACS planes at 400 km, 250 km, the medium-range 120 km and the short-range 40 km. (With inputs from agencies)

Eye on China, India to make Russia-made S-400 missile defence system operational from April

India completed a year of its vaccine drive against covid-19 and in the past 365 days over 1.5 billion doses have been administered. The Prime Minister took to Twitter to celebrate the anniversary and in a series of tweets Narendra Modi lauded everyone associated with the drive and also reiterated India's stance on vaccines.

India completes 1 year of vaccine drive, PM Narendra Modi lauds vaccination campaign

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the ‘State of the World’ special address at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Davos Agenda 2022 Summit via video conference,

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses WEF’s Online Davos Agenda 2022 Summit

Nepal government on Sunday urged India to stop the road construction in Lipulekh area and asserted that it is committed to resolve the border issues on the basis of evidences and through diplomatic channels.&nbsp;

Calling the steps to construct the road as 'unilateral', Communications and Information Technology Minister Gyanendra Bahadur Karki, who is also the Nepal government’s spokesperson said, “Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh are integral part of Nepal”. &nbsp;

His remarks come at a time when there were protests in Nepal against the construction of a road in Lipulekh by India.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-pms-announcement-to-build-road-in-lipulekh-provokes-outrage-in-nepal-444400" hreflang="en">Modi's announcement to build road in Lipulekh provokes outrage in Nepal</a>

“The Government of Nepal has been repeatedly urging to halt construction/widening road within Nepal's territory. As per the spirit of long-standing unique bilateral relations between Nepal and India; we must address the issues based on historical treaties and evidences,” Karki said while addressing the press on decisions taken by the cabinet.&nbsp;

Indian Embassy in Kathmandu on Saturday said the position of the government of India on the India-Nepal boundary is known and has been conveyed to the Nepali government.&nbsp;

The outrage began after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an election rally in the Haldwani area of Uttarakhand on December 30, had announced that his government has extended a road to Lipulekh and further expansion work is going on. &nbsp;

Lipulekh, which lies at the tri-junction between India’s northern Uttarakhand state, China and Nepal, is claimed by Kathmandu.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-provides-over-14-tonnes-of-humanitarian-assistance-to-afghanistan-445271" hreflang="en">Nepal provides over 14 tonnes of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan</a>

Earlier, the ruling Nepali Congress issued a statement and demanded India to immediately withdraw its troops stationed in the Kalapani region and amicably resolve the border row through high-level diplomatic negotiation based on historical facts and evidence.&nbsp;

"Nepali Congress is clear that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani are Nepalese territories. The issue of the road construction in Lipulekh against the agreement reached at the Nepal-India Joint Commission to resolve all bilateral issues through diplomatic negotiations is objectionable and this must be stopped immediately,” the statement said. &nbsp;

Major political parties in Nepal have issued statements objecting to India’s expansion of roads in Lipulekh.&nbsp;

Nepal government on Sunday urged India to stop the road construction in Lipulekh area and asserted that it is committed to resolve the border issues on the basis of evidences and through diplomatic channels.

Nepal government on Sunday urged India to stop the road construction in Lipulekh area and asserted that it is committed to resolve the border issues on the basis of evidences and through diplomatic channels. Calling the steps to construct the road as 'unilateral', Communications and Information Technology Minister Gyanendra Bahadur Karki, who is also the Nepal government’s spokesperson said, “Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh are integral part of Nepal”. His remarks come at a time when there were protests in Nepal against the construction of a road in Lipulekh by India. Also Read: Modi's announcement to build road in Lipulekh provokes outrage in Nepal “The Government of Nepal has been repeatedly urging to halt construction/widening road within Nepal's territory. As per the spirit of long-standing unique bilateral relations between Nepal and India; we must address the issues based on historical treaties and evidences,” Karki said while addressing the press on decisions taken by the cabinet. Indian Embassy in Kathmandu on Saturday said the position of the government of India on the India-Nepal boundary is known and has been conveyed to the Nepali government. The outrage began after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an election rally in the Haldwani area of Uttarakhand on December 30, had announced that his government has extended a road to Lipulekh and further expansion work is going on. Lipulekh, which lies at the tri-junction between India’s northern Uttarakhand state, China and Nepal, is claimed by Kathmandu. Also Read: Nepal provides over 14 tonnes of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan Earlier, the ruling Nepali Congress issued a statement and demanded India to immediately withdraw its troops stationed in the Kalapani region and amicably resolve the border row through high-level diplomatic negotiation based on historical facts and evidence. "Nepali Congress is clear that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani are Nepalese territories. The issue of the road construction in Lipulekh against the agreement reached at the Nepal-India Joint Commission to resolve all bilateral issues through diplomatic negotiations is objectionable and this must be stopped immediately,” the statement said. Major political parties in Nepal have issued statements objecting to India’s expansion of roads in Lipulekh.

Nepal govt urges India to stop construction at Lipulekh border

India is entering a major electoral fray in the year 2022 with elections taking place in five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa, and Manipur. The Election Commission of India has announced dates of the polling few days ago.

Zee News has conducted an opinion poll to predict voters' mood in all these states. ‘Janta Ka Mood’ (Mood of the electorate) has been billed as the biggest opinion poll as it has received responses from over 10 lakh people from these states.

As per the opinion poll, the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand appears to be headed for a close fight between Indian PM Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposing Indian National Congress. The state is currently ruled by the BJP. Polling in Uttarakhand has been scheduled to take place on February 14.

The opinion poll revealed that these were the issues people of Uttarakhand were more concerned about

Uttarakhand Opinion Poll: Most important issue

Unemployment: 23%

Land Law: 14%

Migration: 13%

Electricity/Water/Roads: 21 %

Health Care: &nbsp;10%

Other issues: 9%

The unicameral Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly has 70 seats. This is how the seats are expected to be won by parties in upcoming elections

Uttarakhand Overall opinion poll

BJP: 33 seats

Congress: 35 seats

Aam Aadmi Party: 1 seat

Others: 1seat

 
Here is regionwise tally of seats expected as per the opinion poll.

 
(Expected seats)&nbsp;

Garhwal

BJP 22-24 ( 23)

CONG 15-17 ( 16)

AAP 0-1 ( 1)

OTH 0-1 (1)

Kumaun

BJP 9-11 (10)

CONG 18-20 (19)

AAP 0-1 (0)

OTH 0 (0)

&nbsp;

Regionwise vote-share expected as per the opinion poll

Garhwal

BJP: 43 %

Congress:&nbsp; 38 %

AAP: 14 %

OTH: 5 %

Kumaun

BJP: 38 %

Congress:&nbsp;42 %

AAP: 10 %

Others: 10 %

&nbsp;

Whom do people of Uttarakhand prefer as the next chief minister?

Gharwal

Pushkar Singh Dhami (BJP): 23 %

Harish Rawat (Congress): 43 %

Anil Balooni (BJP): 17 %

Col Ajay Kothiyal ( AAP) &nbsp;8%

Others:&nbsp; 9 %

Kumaun

Pushkar Singh Dham (BJP): 26 %

Harish Rawat (Congress): 41 %

Anil Balooni (BJP): 14 %

Col Ajay Kothiyal (AAP): 10 %

Others:&nbsp;9 % 
&nbsp;

India is entering a major electoral fray in the year 2022 with elections taking place in five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa, and Manipur. The Election Commission of India has announced dates of the polling few days ago.

India is entering a major electoral fray in the year 2022 with elections taking place in five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa, and Manipur. The Election Commission of India has announced dates of the polling few days ago. Zee News has conducted an opinion poll to predict voters' mood in all these states. ‘Janta Ka Mood’ (Mood of the electorate) has been billed as the biggest opinion poll as it has received responses from over 10 lakh people from these states. As per the opinion poll, the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand appears to be headed for a close fight between Indian PM Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposing Indian National Congress. The state is currently ruled by the BJP. Polling in Uttarakhand has been scheduled to take place on February 14. The opinion poll revealed that these were the issues people of Uttarakhand were more concerned about Uttarakhand Opinion Poll: Most important issue Unemployment: 23% Land Law: 14% Migration: 13% Electricity/Water/Roads: 21 % Health Care: 10% Other issues: 9% The unicameral Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly has 70 seats. This is how the seats are expected to be won by parties in upcoming elections Uttarakhand Overall opinion poll BJP: 33 seats Congress: 35 seats Aam Aadmi Party: 1 seat Others: 1seat Here is regionwise tally of seats expected as per the opinion poll. (Expected seats) Garhwal BJP 22-24 ( 23) CONG 15-17 ( 16) AAP 0-1 ( 1) OTH 0-1 (1) Kumaun BJP 9-11 (10) CONG 18-20 (19) AAP 0-1 (0) OTH 0 (0) Regionwise vote-share expected as per the opinion poll Garhwal BJP: 43 % Congress: 38 % AAP: 14 % OTH: 5 % Kumaun BJP: 38 % Congress: 42 % AAP: 10 % Others: 10 % Whom do people of Uttarakhand prefer as the next chief minister? Gharwal Pushkar Singh Dhami (BJP): 23 % Harish Rawat (Congress): 43 % Anil Balooni (BJP): 17 % Col Ajay Kothiyal ( AAP) 8% Others: 9 % Kumaun Pushkar Singh Dham (BJP): 26 % Harish Rawat (Congress): 41 % Anil Balooni (BJP): 14 % Col Ajay Kothiyal (AAP): 10 % Others: 9 %

Uttarakhand elections 2022: Zee News opinion poll predicts close contest between BJP and Congress

Five Indian states are going to polls in February in what is seen as a bellwether elections. The elections are crucial for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. They are being watched keenly in India, almost like the midterm elections in the US. In the next two months, elections will also be held in Punjab & Uttarakhand as well as in Goa and the northeastern state of Manipur. VO: Elections would be held for 403 assembly seats in UP, 117 in Punjab, 70 in Uttarakhand, 60 in Manipur and 40 in Goa.

India's mammoth state elections: Why are they significant?

India is looking to make the first unit of Russia-made S-400 missile defence system operational by this April. All the five units of the system will be deployed in strategic areas to ward off China threat, according to official sources. All these five units may become operational by next year.

India to make first unit of Russia-made S-400 missile defence system operational from April

Pics: Indian state's forest department pays last respect to 'Collarwali' tigress

With China in mind India has now begun work on deploying the S-400 triumph advanced surface-to-air missile defense system. With the first unit to be made operational in April, the S-400 system was bought from Russia at a cost of 5 billion dollar in October of 2018.

India: First S-400 unit to be ready by April, deployment keeping threats from China in mind

After days of significant rise in its daily case load, India today has reported a marginal drop in its covid curve. India has reported over 258,089 new covid-19 cases which is 13,000 less than Sunday's figures.

Covid-19 News: India logs 258,089 new covid-19 cases, records marginal drop

India will dispatch an infantry battalion for the United Nation's peacekeeping operations in the oil rich Abyei region in Africa. It's an area which straddles northern and southern Sudan and is hotly contested by both. The Indian infantry group with around 570 soldiers will be deployed under the UN interim security force for Abyei, it is tasked with monitoring the volatile border between north and south Sudan.

India to dispatch an infantry battalion for UN's peacekeeping ops in Africa

Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted last week suggesting challenges in getting clearance in India for Tesla electric cars, different Indian states have invited the electric vehicle maker to set up the plant there. Now the latest to join the bandwagon is the Indian state of Punjab, earlier senior ministers from Telangana, Maharashtra, West Bengal had extended invitations to Musk.

Indian states invite Elon Musk to set up EV Plants

In a shocking incident, a son's confession at his father's prayer meet led to a shocking revelation that helped in solving his murder. Initially, it was believed that N Raghavendra died from a natural cause. He was found dead at his house in Karenahalli which is on the outskirts of Bengaluru in South India.&nbsp;

Raghavendra's wife, Shylaja called her husband’s brother, Shekar, around 2am saying that Raghavendra had collapsed from an epileptic attack.&nbsp;

He was declared 'brought dead' once he was taken to the hospital.&nbsp;

After a few days at the prayer meeting, Raghavendra's 10-year-old son, while speaking to his grandfather Nanjundappa revealed that there was another person in the house when his father died.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-passengers-exempted-from-7-day-quarantine-in-indias-maharashtra-state-445272">Also read |&nbsp;UAE passengers exempted from 7-day quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state</a>

Elaborating on the incident, the little boy told that he woke up in the middle of the night after there were some disturbing noises.&nbsp;

This is when he saw that his father was pinned down by his mother and her mother, Laxmidevamma. Another man was hitting him on his head with a rolling pin.&nbsp;

When the little boy asked them about why they are hitting their father, the other man hit him too and instructed him to keep his mouth shut or he will be killed. "I got scared and went back to bed," said the boy in a report by News18.&nbsp;

Shylaja and Laxmidevamma were arrested after Shekar filed a complaint with the police.&nbsp;

After the investigation, it was revealed that Hanumantha was Shylaja’s colleague and they were having an affair. Both of them planned Raghavendra's murder after he questioned Shylaja multiple times.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking incident, a son's confession at his father's prayer meet led to a shocking revelation that helped in solving his murder. Initially, it was believed that N Raghavendra died from a natural cause.

In a shocking incident, a son's confession at his father's prayer meet led to a shocking revelation that helped in solving his murder. Initially, it was believed that N Raghavendra died from a natural cause. He was found dead at his house in Karenahalli which is on the outskirts of Bengaluru in South India. Raghavendra's wife, Shylaja called her husband’s brother, Shekar, around 2am saying that Raghavendra had collapsed from an epileptic attack. He was declared 'brought dead' once he was taken to the hospital. After a few days at the prayer meeting, Raghavendra's 10-year-old son, while speaking to his grandfather Nanjundappa revealed that there was another person in the house when his father died. Also read | UAE passengers exempted from 7-day quarantine in India’s Maharashtra state Elaborating on the incident, the little boy told that he woke up in the middle of the night after there were some disturbing noises. This is when he saw that his father was pinned down by his mother and her mother, Laxmidevamma. Another man was hitting him on his head with a rolling pin. When the little boy asked them about why they are hitting their father, the other man hit him too and instructed him to keep his mouth shut or he will be killed. "I got scared and went back to bed," said the boy in a report by News18. Shylaja and Laxmidevamma were arrested after Shekar filed a complaint with the police. After the investigation, it was revealed that Hanumantha was Shylaja’s colleague and they were having an affair. Both of them planned Raghavendra's murder after he questioned Shylaja multiple times. (With inputs from agencies)

This is how son's confession helped uncover his father's murder in India

With the Winter Olympics just around the corner, speculations are running high on which countries will finally send their athletes and diplomats to the Chinese capital to take part in the winter games. Now according to the latest reports that have come in, no high-level political representation from India is expected during the Winter Olympics. However, India will send Arif Khan, the only entry from India this time.

Kashmir's Arif Khan will represent India in Beijing Winter Olympics

Eminent aerospace engineer and rocket scientist Dr S Somanath was been appointed as the new chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) a few days ago. He was also appointed as Secretary of the Department of Space for a joint tenure of three years. He succeeded Kailasavadivoo Sivan as the occupant of the position. WION spoke to Dr S Somanath on his new role and his top priorities as the Chairman of ISRO.

Opening up for our sector is a priority: Dr S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO

In the first reaction after India's construction plan along the Lipulekh Pass stirred unrest in Nepal polity, New Delhi's mission in Kathmandu has said that the government of India's position on the India-Nepal boundary is well known.

New Delhi: Our position on the India-Nepal boundary is well known, consistent

India celebrated Army Day, acknowledging the importance of the Indian army and honoring the sacrifices of soldiers.

Indian Army Chief MM Naravane on Army Day: Will not let anyone change the status quo at the borders

Indian road transport ministry informed that it will make it mandatory for carmakers to provide a minimum of six airbags in motor vehicles that can carry up to 8 passengers in order to enhance road safety of occupants from October this year.

The ministry also said that the decision has been made to enhance safety features by amending the country's Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989.

The implementation of the fitment of the driver airbag with effect from July 1 2019 and the front co-passenger airbag with effect from January 1 2022 was already mandated, India's Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said.&nbsp;

He further said, "In order to enhance the safety of the occupants in motor vehicles carrying up to 8 passengers, I have now approved a Draft GSR Notification to make a minimum of 6 airbags compulsory," Gadkari had said. GSR here stands for General Statutory Rules."

<blockquote>
The ministry informed: "A draft notification has been issued on January 14, 2022, which mandates that vehicles of category M1, manufactured after October 1, 2022, shall be fitted with two side/side torso air bags, one each for the persons occupying front row outboard seating positions, and two side curtain/tube air bags, one each for the persons occupying outboard seating positions."&nbsp;
</blockquote>

As pe the latest government data, total of 1,16,496 road accidents occurred on national highways (NHs), including expressways, in 2020, causing 47,984 deaths.

Indian road transport ministry informed that it will make it mandatory for carmakers to provide a minimum of six airbags in motor vehicles that can carry up to 8 passengers in order to enhance road safety of occupants from October this year.

Indian road transport ministry informed that it will make it mandatory for carmakers to provide a minimum of six airbags in motor vehicles that can carry up to 8 passengers in order to enhance road safety of occupants from October this year. The ministry also said that the decision has been made to enhance safety features by amending the country's Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989. The implementation of the fitment of the driver airbag with effect from July 1 2019 and the front co-passenger airbag with effect from January 1 2022 was already mandated, India's Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said. He further said, "In order to enhance the safety of the occupants in motor vehicles carrying up to 8 passengers, I have now approved a Draft GSR Notification to make a minimum of 6 airbags compulsory," Gadkari had said. GSR here stands for General Statutory Rules." The ministry informed: "A draft notification has been issued on January 14, 2022, which mandates that vehicles of category M1, manufactured after October 1, 2022, shall be fitted with two side/side torso air bags, one each for the persons occupying front row outboard seating positions, and two side curtain/tube air bags, one each for the persons occupying outboard seating positions." As pe the latest government data, total of 1,16,496 road accidents occurred on national highways (NHs), including expressways, in 2020, causing 47,984 deaths.

India to mandate minimum six airbags in vehicles carrying up to eight passengers

Ever since India signed a five billion dollar deal with Russia to purchase five units of the S-400 air defence missile system, the white house under the Trump administration and also under Joe Biden has discussed the possibilities of invoking the CAATSA act against India.

Will India get a CAATSA waiver after purchasing the S-400 air defence missile system from Russia?

India will be celebrating January 16 as "National Start-up day", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday. While addressing start-ups across the country, he said, "To make the culture of start-ups reach the far-flung parts of the country, it has been decided to celebrate January 16 as "National Start-up Day."

In his interaction, he called for innovating 'for India and from India' to scale new milestones. &nbsp;

The interaction was held as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. PM Modi interacted with over 150 startups via video conferencing under "Celebrating Innovation Ecosystem" section of the event.&nbsp;

"Our startups are changing the rules of the game. I believe that startups are going to be the backbone of New India. Let us innovate for India, innovate from India," the PM said.

He further highlighted that India has more than 60,000 startups with 42 unicorns. He also shared the steps taken by the government to free entrepreneurs and innovation from bureaucratic silos.&nbsp;

"India's ranking on the Global Innovation Index is improving because of the programme on innovation started in the country. India was ranked 81 in 2015 and now it is at No. 46," the PM said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India will be celebrating January 16 as "National Start-up day", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday. While addressing start-ups across the country, he said, "To make the culture of start-ups reach the far-flung parts of the country, it has been decided to celebrate January 16 as "National Start-up Day.

India will be celebrating January 16 as "National Start-up day", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday. While addressing start-ups across the country, he said, "To make the culture of start-ups reach the far-flung parts of the country, it has been decided to celebrate January 16 as "National Start-up Day." In his interaction, he called for innovating 'for India and from India' to scale new milestones. The interaction was held as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. PM Modi interacted with over 150 startups via video conferencing under "Celebrating Innovation Ecosystem" section of the event. "Our startups are changing the rules of the game. I believe that startups are going to be the backbone of New India. Let us innovate for India, innovate from India," the PM said. He further highlighted that India has more than 60,000 startups with 42 unicorns. He also shared the steps taken by the government to free entrepreneurs and innovation from bureaucratic silos. "India's ranking on the Global Innovation Index is improving because of the programme on innovation started in the country. India was ranked 81 in 2015 and now it is at No. 46," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

To promote culture of start-ups, January 16 to be celebrated as 'National Start-up Day,' says PM Modi

With a better party structure, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now eyeing Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the upcoming assembly elections. States like UP, Uttarakhand and Punjab are on the top agenda for the party.

With a better party structure, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now eyeing Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the upcoming assembly elections. States like UP, Uttarakhand and Punjab are on the top agenda for the party. The results in these states will determine if AAP can expand its leadership umbrella beyond Delhi and achieve ‘national party’ status. When AAP's President, Arvind Kejriwal announced that his party would contest the UP elections in 2022, he highlighted how the state has been drowned in corruption. He spoke about how the state leaders are hampering the state’s development. With this, Kejriwal also spoke about the very known Delhi model and how it garnered success - a way by which Kejriwal plans on winning the seat in UP. “If government hospitals in Delhi can improve, people here can get free electricity 24*7, why can’t the same happen in UP?" he said during his speech. Even after the party has become visible on the political circuit under Sanjay Singh (face of the UP poll campaign), there are multiple challenges that it can encounter. Delhi’s model of governance is not sufficient AAP's performance in many other states like Haryana and Maharashtra has already shown that their Delhi model is not enough to expand as a national party. Earlier n 2019, the party got fewer votes than those cast in favour of NOTA. According to the Election Commission, most candidates of the party secured less than 1,000 votes in the two states. A battle against the very well established BSP and SP In Delhi, AAP was fighting primarily against one opposition party, which is, the Bhartiya Janta Party. This is where it managed to gather support from different religious communities, including Muslims, Sikhs and Dalits. Also read | India Assembly elections 2022 | Kejriwal a political tourist, his ‘Punjab Model’ a copycat one: Sidhu However, in its fight in UP, Kejriwal-led AAP will have to battle against Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP). While BSP retains its support among the Dalits, SP is still known for the support it has garnered from the Muslim and Yadav community. Leadership still remains an issue AAP was born out of India Against Corruption campaign led by social activist Anna Hazare. After the party was elected in the 2013 assembly election in Delhi, it gave up power after just 49 days of running the government as it wanted to contest all the Lok Sabha seats during the 2014 general elections. This raised a lot of questions on the party president Kejriwal. Will SP-AAP alliance remain an option? Earlier last month there were speculations of an AAP and SP alliance, following a meet up between SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Sanjay Singh. A report by The Print suggests that senior members of both parties met multiple times to discuss the seat-sharing plans. However, they could not reach a consensus. “The idea of an alliance is not working. We will contest in all 403 seats on our own now,” Sanjay Singh was quoted in a report by The Print. Top leaders of both parties have not yet revealed the reason behind the talks not working out. However, a senior SP leader on the condition of anonymity said that SP, during the talks realised that they were not gaining anything as AAP does not have a specific support base in the state.

As AAP gazes 2022 assembly polls in UP, here are a few obstacles that the Kejriwal-led party can face

Netflix Inc has raised its monthly subscription price by $1 to $2 per month in the United States depending on the plan, the company said on Friday, to help pay for new programming to compete in the crowded streaming TV market. 
 
The standard plan, which allows for two simultaneous streams, now costs $15.49 per month, up from $13.99, in the United States. 
Prices also rose in Canada, where the standard plan climbed to C$16.49 from C$14.99. 
 
Shares of Netflix gained nearly 3% to $533.84 on Nasdaq after Reuters broke the news of the price rises. They closed 1.3% higher at $525.69. 
The increases, the first in those markets since October 2020, took effect immediately for new customers. Existing members will see the new prices in the coming weeks when they receive their monthly bills.

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"We understand people have more entertainment choices than ever and we’re committed to delivering an even better experience for our members," a Netflix spokesperson said. 
 
"We’re updating our prices so that we can continue to offer a wide variety of quality entertainment options. As always we offer a range of plans so members can pick a price that works for their budget," the spokesperson added. 
 
The world`s largest streaming service is facing the most competitive ever from companies looking to attract viewers to online entertainment. Walt Disney Co, AT&amp;T Inc`s WarnerMedia, Amazon.com Inc and Apple Inc are among the rivals pouring billions into new programming. 
Netflix has added customers despite prior price increases, which shows its members have been willing to accept higher costs, Evercore ISI analyst Mark Mahaney said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/chinas-highest-grossing-film-battle-at-lake-changjin-sequel-to-release-on-this-date-444611" hreflang="en">China's highest grossing film 'Battle at Lake Changjin' sequel to release on this date</a> 
 
"This is evidence that Netflix has pricing power," Mahaney said. 
 
Netflix had said it would spend $17 billion on programming in 2021. The company has not disclosed spending for 2022. 
 
The U.S. price of Netflix's premium plan, which enables four streams at a time and streaming in ultra HD, was increased by $2 to $19.99 per month. For Netflix`s basic plan, with one stream, the cost rose by $1 to $9.99 per month. In Canada, the premium plan rose by C$2 to C$20.99, and the basic plan was unchanged at C$9.99. 
 
At $15.49 per month, the standard U.S. plan from Netflix now costs more than competitors. HBO Max, owned by AT&amp;T Inc, is currently offering an $11.99-a-month promotion for 12 months. 
 
The price of Walt Disney Co`s Disney+ is $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year. The United States and Canada is Netflix`s largest region with 74 million streaming customers as of September 2021. The region accounted for nearly 44% of the company`s revenue in 2021`s third quarter, or about $3.3 billion. 
 
Most of the company`s recent pickup in subscribers has come from overseas. 
 
Netflix's subscriber growth slowed from a boom early in the COVID-19 pandemic but rebounded with help from the global phenomenon 'Squid Game,'&nbsp;a dystopian thriller from South Korea released in September. Total global subscriptions reached 213.6 million. 
 
The company`s next subscriber report is due Thursday when Netflix posts quarterly earnings. Analysts project the company will report 8.5 million new sign-ups from October through December, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S data, bringing its global subscriber base to 222 million.

Netflix Inc has raised its monthly subscription price by $1 to $2 per month in the United States depending on the plan, the company said on Friday, to help pay for new programming to compete in the crowded streaming TV market.

Netflix Inc has raised its monthly subscription price by $1 to $2 per month in the United States depending on the plan, the company said on Friday, to help pay for new programming to compete in the crowded streaming TV market. The standard plan, which allows for two simultaneous streams, now costs $15.49 per month, up from $13.99, in the United States. Prices also rose in Canada, where the standard plan climbed to C$16.49 from C$14.99. Shares of Netflix gained nearly 3% to $533.84 on Nasdaq after Reuters broke the news of the price rises. They closed 1.3% higher at $525.69. The increases, the first in those markets since October 2020, took effect immediately for new customers. Existing members will see the new prices in the coming weeks when they receive their monthly bills. Speechless and beyond excited! 'Squid Game' stars react to historic SAG nominations "We understand people have more entertainment choices than ever and we’re committed to delivering an even better experience for our members," a Netflix spokesperson said. "We’re updating our prices so that we can continue to offer a wide variety of quality entertainment options. As always we offer a range of plans so members can pick a price that works for their budget," the spokesperson added. The world`s largest streaming service is facing the most competitive ever from companies looking to attract viewers to online entertainment. Walt Disney Co, AT&T Inc`s WarnerMedia, Amazon.com Inc and Apple Inc are among the rivals pouring billions into new programming. Netflix has added customers despite prior price increases, which shows its members have been willing to accept higher costs, Evercore ISI analyst Mark Mahaney said. China's highest grossing film 'Battle at Lake Changjin' sequel to release on this date "This is evidence that Netflix has pricing power," Mahaney said. Netflix had said it would spend $17 billion on programming in 2021. The company has not disclosed spending for 2022. The U.S. price of Netflix's premium plan, which enables four streams at a time and streaming in ultra HD, was increased by $2 to $19.99 per month. For Netflix`s basic plan, with one stream, the cost rose by $1 to $9.99 per month. In Canada, the premium plan rose by C$2 to C$20.99, and the basic plan was unchanged at C$9.99. At $15.49 per month, the standard U.S. plan from Netflix now costs more than competitors. HBO Max, owned by AT&T Inc, is currently offering an $11.99-a-month promotion for 12 months. The price of Walt Disney Co`s Disney+ is $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year. The United States and Canada is Netflix`s largest region with 74 million streaming customers as of September 2021. The region accounted for nearly 44% of the company`s revenue in 2021`s third quarter, or about $3.3 billion. Most of the company`s recent pickup in subscribers has come from overseas. Netflix's subscriber growth slowed from a boom early in the COVID-19 pandemic but rebounded with help from the global phenomenon 'Squid Game,' a dystopian thriller from South Korea released in September. Total global subscriptions reached 213.6 million. The company`s next subscriber report is due Thursday when Netflix posts quarterly earnings. Analysts project the company will report 8.5 million new sign-ups from October through December, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S data, bringing its global subscriber base to 222 million.

Netflix raises monthly subscription prices in US, Canada

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that startups are going to be the backbone of new India and added that January 16 will be celebrated as 'National Startup Day'. "Start-ups are going to be the backbone of new India. When India completes 100 years of independence, startups will have an important role. Country's innovators are making the country proud globally," the Indian Prime Minister said during his interaction with startups across different sectors.

January 16 will be celebrated as 'National Startup Day': Indian PM Modi

A month after the tragic crash, which killed 14 people, including India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, the Indian Air Force court of inquiry has ruled out any technical snag or sabotage, pinning the prime cause of the event on bad weather.

General Bipin Rawat helicopter crash: IAF court of inquiry rules out any technical snag or sabotage

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