India's state-owned Oil India Limited (OIL) formally announced a major natural gas discovery at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 exploratory. It was its second natural gas discovery offshore of Andaman Well on June 3. The first one, Vijayapuram-2, was discovered in September 2025. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced the discovery on Friday. The well is situated around 15 kilometres off the eastern coast of the Andaman Islands at a depth of 355 metres.&nbsp;“An ocean of energy opportunities reinforced in the Andaman Sea! Very happy to report the presence of natural gas in Sri Vijayapuram-3, an exploratory well drilled by Oil India Ltd. &nbsp;15 km off the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 355 meters,” said Hardeep Puri in a statement on the social media platform X. Puri said that the testing conducted at more than 1900 m+ resulted in continuous flaring.&nbsp;Two out of three exploratory wells in this specific block have now officially proven the existence of a functioning hydrocarbon system. The Vijayapuram-2 well breakthrough, which confirmed a clean energy pool featuring 87% methane content. This confirms the existence of hydrocarbons in the Andaman Basin.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tova-noel-denies-orange-figure-jeffrey-epstein-jail-footage-1780741329354">Who is Tova Noel? Former Epstein guard denies being orange figure seen on staircase</a>While the discovery is natural gas, there are expectations of oil based on geological modelling. India’s Hydrocarbon Resource Assessment Study (HRAS) estimates that hydrocarbon resources of 371 million Metric Tons of Oil Equivalent could be present in the Andaman Basin, which translates to roughly 2.7 billion barrels of combined oil and gas. However, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has suggested a directional estimate of 11.6 billion barrels.&nbsp;“Under the Samudra Manthan Mission (National Deep Water Exploration Mission) announced by Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji on Independence Day 2025, a large number of deepwater &amp; ultra-deepwater exploration wells are planned in our offshore basins to fully exploit our hydrocarbon reserves,” read the post.&nbsp;Geologically, the AN basin lies at the intersection of the Andaman and Nicobar Basins. The global interest in the basin rekindled following significant gas discoveries in the South Andaman offshore in Indonesia, highlighting geological continuity across this region.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Congratulations <a href="https://x.com/OilIndiaLimited?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OilIndiaLimited</a> ! An ocean of energy opportunities reinforced in the Andaman Sea! Very happy to report the presence of natural gas in Sri Vijayapuram-3 an exploratory well drilled by Oil India Ltd. 15 km off the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water… <a href="https://t.co/j6QvWqZkFx">pic.twitter.com/j6QvWqZkFx</a>&mdash; Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://x.com/HardeepSPuri/status/2062844828522795427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Oil India has announced a major natural gas discovery at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 offshore well in the Andaman Sea, strengthening India's energy exploration efforts and confirming a functioning hydrocarbon system in the basin.

India's state-owned Oil India Limited (OIL) formally announced a major natural gas discovery at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 exploratory. It was its second natural gas discovery offshore of Andaman Well on June 3. The first one, Vijayapuram-2, was discovered in September 2025. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced the discovery on Friday. The well is situated around 15 kilometres off the eastern coast of the Andaman Islands at a depth of 355 metres. “An ocean of energy opportunities reinforced in the Andaman Sea! Very happy to report the presence of natural gas in Sri Vijayapuram-3, an exploratory well drilled by Oil India Ltd. 15 km off the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 355 meters,” said Hardeep Puri in a statement on the social media platform X. Puri said that the testing conducted at more than 1900 m+ resulted in continuous flaring. Two out of three exploratory wells in this specific block have now officially proven the existence of a functioning hydrocarbon system. The Vijayapuram-2 well breakthrough, which confirmed a clean energy pool featuring 87% methane content. This confirms the existence of hydrocarbons in the Andaman Basin. Also Read: Who is Tova Noel? Former Epstein guard denies being orange figure seen on staircase While the discovery is natural gas, there are expectations of oil based on geological modelling. India’s Hydrocarbon Resource Assessment Study (HRAS) estimates that hydrocarbon resources of 371 million Metric Tons of Oil Equivalent could be present in the Andaman Basin, which translates to roughly 2.7 billion barrels of combined oil and gas. However, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has suggested a directional estimate of 11.6 billion barrels. “Under the Samudra Manthan Mission (National Deep Water Exploration Mission) announced by Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji on Independence Day 2025, a large number of deepwater & ultra-deepwater exploration wells are planned in our offshore basins to fully exploit our hydrocarbon reserves,” read the post. Geologically, the AN basin lies at the intersection of the Andaman and Nicobar Basins. The global interest in the basin rekindled following significant gas discoveries in the South Andaman offshore in Indonesia, highlighting geological continuity across this region.

Oil India has announced a major natural gas discovery at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 offshore well in the Andaman Sea, strengthening India's energy exploration efforts and confirming a functioning hydrocarbon system in the basin.

Hardeep Puri announces major natural gas discovery in Andaman Sea by Oil India

Top Indian government officials are actively addressing energy security concerns following the escalation of the conflict in West Asia, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri leading efforts to assure stability in oil and gas supplies amid the ongoing Iran-Israel/US tensions as of March 2026. While global oil prices have surged above USD 100 per barrel, Indian officials have stated there is "no shortage of energy in India" and are monitoring the situation closely. 


West Asia Conflict: Indian Govt Top Officials Address Energy Concerns Amid War in Iran

A political controversy has erupted in India after opposition leaders raised questions over references to Hardeep Singh Puri in the recently released Epstein-related documents. Rival parties clashed as opposition figures demanded clarification, intensifying the political debate.

The development has sparked sharp reactions, with leaders trading accusations and defending positions amid growing scrutiny over the disclosures. The issue has quickly become a flashpoint in domestic political discourse.

Epstein Files Fallout Hits Indian Parliament; Opposition Demands Hardeep Singh Puri's Resignation

Epstein Files Trigger Political Storm in India as Opposition Questions Puri | WION

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday (February 11) dismissed allegations made by Rahul Gandhi that linked him to the controversial Epstein Files, saying that his meeting with Jeffrey Epstein took place in an official capacity as part of an International Peace Institute (IPI) delegation. Puri offered the clarification during a press conference following Rahul Gandhi’s sharp remarks in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;&nbsp;He stressed that his interaction with Epstein was strictly professional and unrelated to the allegations surrounding the disgraced American financier. He explained that the meeting took place while he was serving on a commission associated with the IPI. "My boss at IPI Terje Rod-Larsen, knew Epstein, and I met him only on a few occasions, 3 or at max 4 times to be precise, as part of a delegation. Our interactions had nothing to do (with the crimes he is accused of)," Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-food-safety-crisis-how-contaminated-and-ultra-processed-foods-threaten-public-health-1770805799519">India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health</a>&nbsp;The minister said that all relevant details are already publicly available, noting that the US Department of Justice has released more than three million documents related to the case.&nbsp;"Three million emails have been released, covering the period from May 2009, when I joined as India’s Ambassador to the UN in New York, until I became a minister in 2017. During this period, there are references to only three or four meetings, and my interactions were entirely professional, related to the Independent Commission on Multilateralism and other international work,” Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. "In eight years, there are just two references and one email exchange (with Epstein) because these people introduced me to him," he added.&nbsp;Referring to the Epstein files, he said Rahul Gandhi should understand that they concern allegations of serious criminal misconduct. He explained that the files relate to accusations that Epstein owned an island where individuals were allegedly taken to engage in illicit activities, including charges of paedophilia. He added that victims have filed cases against those in positions of authority and emphasised that his own interaction was unrelated to any of these matters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed</a>&nbsp;Addressing an email exchange that also included Jeffrey Epstein, the minister said he had written to Reid Hoffman, the former LinkedIn CEO, expressing strong confidence in India’s potential for internet-driven economic growth. Quoting from the message, he highlighted that India, with 200 million users at the time, was the fastest-growing market for internet users globally.

'I met him only on a few occasions': Hardeep Singh Puri admits meeting Jeffrey Epstein

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday (February 11) dismissed allegations made by Rahul Gandhi that linked him to the controversial Epstein Files, saying that his meeting with Jeffrey Epstein took place in an official capacity as part of an International Peace Institute (IPI) delegation. Puri offered the clarification during a press conference following Rahul Gandhi’s sharp remarks in the Lok Sabha. He stressed that his interaction with Epstein was strictly professional and unrelated to the allegations surrounding the disgraced American financier. He explained that the meeting took place while he was serving on a commission associated with the IPI. "My boss at IPI Terje Rod-Larsen, knew Epstein, and I met him only on a few occasions, 3 or at max 4 times to be precise, as part of a delegation. Our interactions had nothing to do (with the crimes he is accused of)," Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. Also Read: India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health The minister said that all relevant details are already publicly available, noting that the US Department of Justice has released more than three million documents related to the case. "Three million emails have been released, covering the period from May 2009, when I joined as India’s Ambassador to the UN in New York, until I became a minister in 2017. During this period, there are references to only three or four meetings, and my interactions were entirely professional, related to the Independent Commission on Multilateralism and other international work,” Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. "In eight years, there are just two references and one email exchange (with Epstein) because these people introduced me to him," he added. Referring to the Epstein files, he said Rahul Gandhi should understand that they concern allegations of serious criminal misconduct. He explained that the files relate to accusations that Epstein owned an island where individuals were allegedly taken to engage in illicit activities, including charges of paedophilia. He added that victims have filed cases against those in positions of authority and emphasised that his own interaction was unrelated to any of these matters. https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed Addressing an email exchange that also included Jeffrey Epstein, the minister said he had written to Reid Hoffman, the former LinkedIn CEO, expressing strong confidence in India’s potential for internet-driven economic growth. Quoting from the message, he highlighted that India, with 200 million users at the time, was the fastest-growing market for internet users globally.

Hardeep Singh Puri, during a press conference, admitted that he met Jeffrey Epstein only in an official IPI delegation role at a UN event in 2013

India’s Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri speaks to WION on the sidelines of the fourth edition of India Energy Week, sharing insights on India’s energy transition, global oil markets, and the country’s strategy for energy security and sustainability.


India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Speaks to WION | India Energy Week

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday shared that natural gas has been found in the Andaman basin, confirming the long-held belief that the Andaman Sea is rich in natural gas. In a post on X in late evening, the minister informed about the occurrence of natural gas in the Sri Vijayapuram 2 well at a distance of 9.20 NM (17 km) from the shoreline on the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 295 metres and target depth of 2,650 metres. “An ocean of energy opportunities opens up in the Andaman Sea,” Puri said in the post. “Initial production testing of the well in the range of 2212-2250 metres has established the presence of natural gas with intermittent flaring. The gas samples were brought by ship to Kakinada, were tested and found to be 87 per cent methane,” he shared.&nbsp;In the post, the minister, sounding upbeat, said that establishing the presence of hydrocarbons in the Andaman basin is a major step in confirming the long-held belief that Andaman basin is rich in natural gas, “in line with discoveries in the entire area from Myanmar in North to Indonesia in the south in this belt”. He added that the size of the gas pool and commercial viability of the discovery will get verified in the coming months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An ocean of energy opportunities opens up in the Andaman Sea! Very happy to report the occurrence of natural gas in Sri Vijayapuram 2 well at a distance of 9.20 NM (17 km) from the shoreline on the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 295 meters and target depth… <a href="https://t.co/4VDeGtt8bt">pic.twitter.com/4VDeGtt8bt</a>&mdash; Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1971599478294503440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Under the deepwater mission announced by PM Narendra Modi on Independence Day, large number of deepwater exploration wells are planned in our offshore basins in order to find new discoveries and fully exploit our hydrocarbon reserves,” said Puri.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-fumbles-seven-times-in-unsc-speech-gets-trolled-watch-1758895298255">Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif fumbles seven times in UNSC speech, gets trolled | Watch</a>&nbsp;This occurrence of natural gas will help the country take forward its exploration ambitions in coordination with global deepwater exploration experts, and will be a significant milestone in India’s journey through ‘Amrit Kaal’, the minister emphasised.&nbsp;WATCH: Operation Sindoor Forces Lashkar's Retreat to Pakistan's West<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-forces-lashkar-s-retreat-to-pakistan-s-west-1758911733079/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-forces-lashkar-s-retreat-to-pakistan-s-west-1758911733079/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in his Independence Day address, announced the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, which aims to explore oil and gas reserves in the sea. The PM had termed it “Samudra Manthan” and said that the initiative will be executed in mission mode, highlighting India’s push for self-reliance in the energy sector.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-court-dismisses-terrorism-charge-against-kneecap-rapper-mo-chara-1758889592454">London court dismisses terrorism charge against Kneecap rapper Mo Chara</a>&nbsp;Puri underlined that the discovery will strengthen India’s ability to partner with global deepwater exploration leaders like Petrobras, BP India, Shell, and ExxonMobil. “This occurrence of natural gas will help us take forward our exploration ambitions and is a significant milestone in our journey through Amrit Kaal,” he said.

In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, which aims to explore oil and gas reserves in the sea. The PM termed it “Samudra Manthan” and said that the initiative will be executed in mission mode.

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday shared that natural gas has been found in the Andaman basin, confirming the long-held belief that the Andaman Sea is rich in natural gas. In a post on X in late evening, the minister informed about the occurrence of natural gas in the Sri Vijayapuram 2 well at a distance of 9.20 NM (17 km) from the shoreline on the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 295 metres and target depth of 2,650 metres. “An ocean of energy opportunities opens up in the Andaman Sea,” Puri said in the post. “Initial production testing of the well in the range of 2212-2250 metres has established the presence of natural gas with intermittent flaring. The gas samples were brought by ship to Kakinada, were tested and found to be 87 per cent methane,” he shared. In the post, the minister, sounding upbeat, said that establishing the presence of hydrocarbons in the Andaman basin is a major step in confirming the long-held belief that Andaman basin is rich in natural gas, “in line with discoveries in the entire area from Myanmar in North to Indonesia in the south in this belt”. He added that the size of the gas pool and commercial viability of the discovery will get verified in the coming months.

In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, which aims to explore oil and gas reserves in the sea. The PM termed it “Samudra Manthan” and said that the initiative will be executed in mission mode.

‘Ocean of opportunities’: India confirms natural gas discovery in Andaman basin, 87% methane detected

India’s Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has dismissed White House trade adviser Peter Navarro’s ‘laundromat’ remark and said that India did not violate any rule in purchasing Russian oil and added that New Delhi’s energy trade since the Ukraine war in fact helped stabilise global markets and keep crude oil prices in check. “Some critics allege that India has become a ‘laundromat’ for Russian oil. Nothing could be further from the truth. India's adherence to all international norms prevented a catastrophic $200 per barrel shock,” Union Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri wrote in a column for The Hindu newspaper on Monday.&nbsp;“Russian oil has never been sanctioned like Iranian or Venezuelan crude; it is under a G-7/European Union price cap system deliberately designed to keep oil flowing while capping revenues,” Puri wrote.&nbsp;The minister added that every Indian oil transaction is done using “legal shipping and insurance, compliant traders, and audited channels.” “India has not broken rules. India has stabilised markets and kept global prices from spiralling.”“The larger truth is this—there is no substitute for the world’s second-largest producer supplying nearly 10% of global oil,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘India fourth-largest exporter of petroleum products for decades’</h2>&nbsp;Puri further said that India has been the fourth-largest exporter of petroleum products for decades—long before the Ukraine conflict—and its refiners process a basket of crudes from across the globe.&nbsp;“Exports keep supply chains functioning. Indeed, Europe itself turned to Indian fuels after banning Russian crude. The volume of exports and refining margins remain broadly the same. There is no question of profiteering,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Brahmins profiteering at the expense of Indian people’</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, in a new rant against India, White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said that “Brahmins” are profiteering at the expense of the Indian people and it needs to “stop”.&nbsp;“Look (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi is a great leader,” Navarro said in an interview with Fox News on Sunday.Navarro also said that he doesn’t understand how PM Modi is cooperating with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping “when he’s the biggest democracy in the world”.“So I would just simply say, the Indian people, please understand what’s going on here. You got Brahmins profiteering at the expense of the Indian people. We need that to stop,” Navarro said.Last week, Navarro, in a series of posts on X, labelled the Russia-Ukraine war as “Modi’s war” and accused New Delhi of funding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “war machine”.&nbsp;<h2>India’s Opposition slams Navarro for his ‘Brahmin’ remark</h2>&nbsp;Pawan Khera leader of the Congress party in opposition, also slammed Peter Navarro for his ‘Brahmin’ remark and called it ‘baseless’. “America should not make baseless statements like this,” Khera said while speaking to news agency ANI.

Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that even Europe turned to Indian fuels after banning Russian crude, and since the volume of exports and refining margins broadly remained the same, there was no question of any profiteering.

India’s Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has dismissed White House trade adviser Peter Navarro’s ‘laundromat’ remark and said that India did not violate any rule in purchasing Russian oil and added that New Delhi’s energy trade since the Ukraine war in fact helped stabilise global markets and keep crude oil prices in check. “Some critics allege that India has become a ‘laundromat’ for Russian oil. Nothing could be further from the truth. India's adherence to all international norms prevented a catastrophic $200 per barrel shock,” Union Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri wrote in a column for The Hindu newspaper on Monday. “Russian oil has never been sanctioned like Iranian or Venezuelan crude; it is under a G-7/European Union price cap system deliberately designed to keep oil flowing while capping revenues,” Puri wrote. The minister added that every Indian oil transaction is done using “legal shipping and insurance, compliant traders, and audited channels.” “India has not broken rules. India has stabilised markets and kept global prices from spiralling.” “The larger truth is this—there is no substitute for the world’s second-largest producer supplying nearly 10% of global oil,” he added. ‘India fourth-largest exporter of petroleum products for decades’ Puri further said that India has been the fourth-largest exporter of petroleum products for decades—long before the Ukraine conflict—and its refiners process a basket of crudes from across the globe. “Exports keep supply chains functioning. Indeed, Europe itself turned to Indian fuels after banning Russian crude. The volume of exports and refining margins remain broadly the same. There is no question of profiteering,” he said. ‘Brahmins profiteering at the expense of Indian people’ Meanwhile, in a new rant against India, White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said that “Brahmins” are profiteering at the expense of the Indian people and it needs to “stop”. “Look (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi is a great leader,” Navarro said in an interview with Fox News on Sunday. Navarro also said that he doesn’t understand how PM Modi is cooperating with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping “when he’s the biggest democracy in the world”. “So I would just simply say, the Indian people, please understand what’s going on here. You got Brahmins profiteering at the expense of the Indian people. We need that to stop,” Navarro said. Last week, Navarro, in a series of posts on X, labelled the Russia-Ukraine war as “Modi’s war” and accused New Delhi of funding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “war machine”. India’s Opposition slams Navarro for his ‘Brahmin’ remark Pawan Khera leader of the Congress party in opposition, also slammed Peter Navarro for his ‘Brahmin’ remark and called it ‘baseless’. “America should not make baseless statements like this,” Khera said while speaking to news agency ANI.

Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that even Europe turned to Indian fuels after banning Russian crude, and since the volume of exports and refining margins broadly remained the same, there was no question of any profiteering.

Oil Minister Puri rebuffs Navarro’s ‘laundromat’ remark, says India broke no rules

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri slammed Pakistani politician Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday for his provocative remarks on Indus water sharing and said Islamabad will soon realise the ramifications of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Puri was responding to the provocative remarks Bhutto-Zardari made in a speech at a rally in Sukkur, Sindh province.
Speaking to his supporters, the PPP leader had declared, &ldquo;The Indus is ours and will remain ours &ndash; either our water will flow through it, or their blood.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-attack-2-terror-associates-arrested-in-kulgam-hideout-busted-in-machil-as-crackdown-continues-9005214">Pahalgam attack: 2 terror associates arrested in Kulgam, hideout busted in Machil as crackdown continues</a>
&ldquo;I heard his statement... Tell him to jump somewhere in water... Well, how will he, when there will be no water... Do not dignify such statements... They will get to understand that...,&rdquo; remarked Puri while speaking to ANI.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9ye1u2q-b7lao3s1-sgu9sdq3">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mohali | On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pahalgamterrorattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pahalgamterrorattack</a>, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says, "The Pahalgam incident is unequivocally a cross-border terrorist attack unleashed by a neighbouring state and they are taking its responsibility... Unlike before, no business will continue. Like&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/IP6eGPIGIW">pic.twitter.com/IP6eGPIGIW</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1916031082832576991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Commenting further on the Pahalgam terror strike, Puri said, &ldquo;The Pahalgam incident is unequivocally a cross-border terrorist attack unleashed by a neighbouring state. Unlike before, no business will continue. Like PM Modi said, Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price, and this is just the beginning... The terrorists take away the most fundamental right to life. This is being condemned by the entire world. Pakistan is not just a rogue state, it is a country in terminal decline.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-new-video-surfaces-of-terrorist-shooting-a-moment-dead-goes-viral-9004958">Pahalgam terror attack: New video surfaces of terrorist shooting a man dead, goes viral</a>
On the reported throat-slitting gesture of Colonel Taimur Rahat, the Pakistan Army and Air Advisor at their High Commission in London, the minister said, &ldquo;This is a state-sponsored terrorism... We have reached a point where they will have to pay a price... If they (Pakistan) think that they can survive the suspension of Indus Water Treaty, I wish them best of luck...&rdquo;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-denied-then-said-india-orchestrated-it-omar-slams-pak-pms-offer-for-neutral-probe-into-pahalgam-attack-9004703" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;They denied, then said India orchestrated it&rsquo;: Omar slams Pak PM&rsquo;s offer for &lsquo;neutral&rsquo; probe into Pahalgam attack</a>
Things escalated between New Delhi and Islamabad after the Pahalgam attack. India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, and intelligence sources linked the attackers to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terror group.&nbsp;
Retaliating to India suspending the IWT, Islamabad suspended the Simla Agreement, a key 1972 deal between India and Pakistan aimed at easing tensions after the 1971 war. Pakistan also halted all trade with India, shut down its airspace for Indian flights, and warned that if India diverted water from the Indus River, it would be seen as an &ldquo;act of war&rdquo;.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-stop-indus-water-flow-to-pakistan-increase-capacity-of-dams-sources-9002225" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India to stop Indus water flow to Pakistan; minister says &lsquo;will not allow a single drop&rsquo;</a>

India News | Pakistan: Things escalated between New Delhi and Islamabad after the Pahalgam attack. India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, and intelligence sources linked the attackers to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terror group.

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri slammed Pakistani politician Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday for his provocative remarks on Indus water sharing and said Islamabad will soon realise the ramifications of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Puri was responding to the provocative remarks Bhutto-Zardari made in a speech at a rally in Sukkur, Sindh province. Speaking to his supporters, the PPP leader had declared, “The Indus is ours and will remain ours – either our water will flow through it, or their blood.” Also Read | Pahalgam attack: 2 terror associates arrested in Kulgam, hideout busted in Machil as crackdown continues “I heard his statement... Tell him to jump somewhere in water... Well, how will he, when there will be no water... Do not dignify such statements... They will get to understand that...,” remarked Puri while speaking to ANI. #WATCH | Mohali | On #Pahalgamterrorattack, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says, "The Pahalgam incident is unequivocally a cross-border terrorist attack unleashed by a neighbouring state and they are taking its responsibility... Unlike before, no business will continue. Like… pic.twitter.com/IP6eGPIGIW — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2025 Commenting further on the Pahalgam terror strike, Puri said, “The Pahalgam incident is unequivocally a cross-border terrorist attack unleashed by a neighbouring state. Unlike before, no business will continue. Like PM Modi said, Pakistan will have to pay a heavy price, and this is just the beginning... The terrorists take away the most fundamental right to life. This is being condemned by the entire world. Pakistan is not just a rogue state, it is a country in terminal decline.” Also Read | Pahalgam terror attack: New video surfaces of terrorist shooting a man dead, goes viral On the reported throat-slitting gesture of Colonel Taimur Rahat, the Pakistan Army and Air Advisor at their High Commission in London, the minister said, “This is a state-sponsored terrorism... We have reached a point where they will have to pay a price... If they (Pakistan) think that they can survive the suspension of Indus Water Treaty, I wish them best of luck...” Also Read | ‘They denied, then said India orchestrated it’: Omar slams Pak PM’s offer for ‘neutral’ probe into Pahalgam attack Things escalated between New Delhi and Islamabad after the Pahalgam attack. India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, and intelligence sources linked the attackers to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terror group. Retaliating to India suspending the IWT, Islamabad suspended the Simla Agreement, a key 1972 deal between India and Pakistan aimed at easing tensions after the 1971 war. Pakistan also halted all trade with India, shut down its airspace for Indian flights, and warned that if India diverted water from the Indus River, it would be seen as an “act of war”. Also Read | India to stop Indus water flow to Pakistan; minister says ‘will not allow a single drop’

Pahalgam attack: Union Minister Puri slams Bilawal’s provocative remark, says Pakistan in ‘terminal decline’

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad.&nbsp;

The Union Minister, while addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, said that Gandhi's comments were "sinister" in nature as he tried to spread falsehood among the Sikh diaspora in the US.&nbsp;

"I condemn in the strongest terms the statement he has made about Sikhs not being able to wear turbans and kadas," Puri said.&nbsp;

"I think this is far more sinister because Rahul Gandhi was trying to spread a false narrative while speaking in front of those, who belong to my community and are trying to eke out a living in the US with hard work and honesty. Because they do not have much connection with the country (India)," he said.

Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots which took place when the Congress was in power, Puri said, "If there has been one time in our history when as a community we have felt anxiety, a sense of insecurity and existential threat, it has been the times when Rahul Gandhi's family has been in the seats of power."

"In 1984, a pogrom was carried out against the Sikh community. As many as 3,000 innocent people were killed. People were dragged out of their homes, tyres were put around them and burnt alive," he added.

<h2>Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the US&nbsp;</h2>

The Congress leader was addressing a gathering of Indian diaspora in Herndon, a Virginia suburb of Washington DC, on Monday, when he&nbsp;accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of considering some religions, languages, and communities inferior to others, adding that the fight in India is about this and not about politics.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leader-of-opposition-rahul-gandhis-us-visit-kicks-off-in-texas-aims-to-strengthen-india-us-ties-756884">Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi's US visit kicks off from Texas, aims to strengthen India-US ties</a>

He said, "First of all, you have to understand what the fight is about. The fight is not about politics. That is superficial."&nbsp;

"The fight is about whether a Sikh is going to be allowed to wear his turban in India or a kada in India. Or he, as a Sikh, is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And not just for him, for all religions,” he added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi addresses the Indian diaspora in Dallas, attacks PM Modi &amp; RSS during US visit

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Hardeep Puri further criticised Gandhi and said that he has been making statements on sensitive issues, which "involve our national identity, unity, the strength of our unity and diversity". "I think he is trying to set a new kind of narrative, which I think is a dangerous narrative," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad.

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad. The Union Minister, while addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, said that Gandhi's comments were "sinister" in nature as he tried to spread falsehood among the Sikh diaspora in the US. "I condemn in the strongest terms the statement he has made about Sikhs not being able to wear turbans and kadas," Puri said. "I think this is far more sinister because Rahul Gandhi was trying to spread a false narrative while speaking in front of those, who belong to my community and are trying to eke out a living in the US with hard work and honesty. Because they do not have much connection with the country (India)," he said. Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots which took place when the Congress was in power, Puri said, "If there has been one time in our history when as a community we have felt anxiety, a sense of insecurity and existential threat, it has been the times when Rahul Gandhi's family has been in the seats of power." "In 1984, a pogrom was carried out against the Sikh community. As many as 3,000 innocent people were killed. People were dragged out of their homes, tyres were put around them and burnt alive," he added. Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the US The Congress leader was addressing a gathering of Indian diaspora in Herndon, a Virginia suburb of Washington DC, on Monday, when he accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of considering some religions, languages, and communities inferior to others, adding that the fight in India is about this and not about politics. Also read: Rahul Gandhi's US visit kicks off from Texas, aims to strengthen India-US ties He said, "First of all, you have to understand what the fight is about. The fight is not about politics. That is superficial." "The fight is about whether a Sikh is going to be allowed to wear his turban in India or a kada in India. Or he, as a Sikh, is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And not just for him, for all religions,” he added. Watch | Rahul Gandhi addresses the Indian diaspora in Dallas, attacks PM Modi & RSS during US visit × Hardeep Puri further criticised Gandhi and said that he has been making statements on sensitive issues, which "involve our national identity, unity, the strength of our unity and diversity". "I think he is trying to set a new kind of narrative, which I think is a dangerous narrative," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Dangerous narrative': Union Minister Hardeep Puri slams Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Sikhs

Hardeep Singh Puri, who served as Minister of Urban Development and Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas in Narendra Modi 2.0, has returned to Modi 3.0 cabinet. He holds the record of the longest-serving Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs in the history of India.

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VIDEO | Modi 3.0 Swearing-in Ceremony: BJP leader Hardeep Singh Puri (<a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HardeepSPuri</a>) sworn-in as Union Minister at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/nPE0rgHrGH">pic.twitter.com/nPE0rgHrGH</a>
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He has been one of the top diplomats of the country. Throughout his forty-year diplomatic career, he held key positions like India's Permanent Representative to Geneva and Ambassador to Brazil and the United Kingdom.

Before that Puri served as a joint secretary in the Indian government's Ministry of External Affairs from 1994 to 1997 and again from 1999 to 2002. From 1997 to 1999, he worked as a joint secretary in the Ministry of Defence. After that, he worked as the Ministry of External Affairs' secretary for economic relations from 2009 to 2013.

<h2>Hardeep Singh Puri's political journey</h2>

Puri joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2014 and contested elections from the Amritsar Lok Sabha seat. Although he didn't win the elections, he was still given a berth in the Modi 1.0 cabinet after being promoted as a Rajya Sabha member, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.

Puri attended the Hindu College of Delhi University (DU), where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in history. Following that, he started working as a history lecturer at St. Stephen's College in&nbsp;DU.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hardeep Singh Puri, who served as Minister of Urban Development and Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas in Narendra Modi 2.0, has returned to Modi 3.0 cabinet.

Hardeep Singh Puri, who served as Minister of Urban Development and Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas in Narendra Modi 2.0, has returned to Modi 3.0 cabinet. He holds the record of the longest-serving Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs in the history of India. VIDEO | Modi 3.0 Swearing-in Ceremony: BJP leader Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) sworn-in as Union Minister at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/nPE0rgHrGH — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2024 × He has been one of the top diplomats of the country. Throughout his forty-year diplomatic career, he held key positions like India's Permanent Representative to Geneva and Ambassador to Brazil and the United Kingdom. Before that Puri served as a joint secretary in the Indian government's Ministry of External Affairs from 1994 to 1997 and again from 1999 to 2002. From 1997 to 1999, he worked as a joint secretary in the Ministry of Defence. After that, he worked as the Ministry of External Affairs' secretary for economic relations from 2009 to 2013. Hardeep Singh Puri's political journey Puri joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2014 and contested elections from the Amritsar Lok Sabha seat. Although he didn't win the elections, he was still given a berth in the Modi 1.0 cabinet after being promoted as a Rajya Sabha member, the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Puri attended the Hindu College of Delhi University (DU), where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in history. Following that, he started working as a history lecturer at St. Stephen's College in DU. (With inputs from agencies)

Hardeep Singh Puri, former diplomat, takes oath as Union Minister in Modi 3.0 cabinet

India's oil minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, has expressed concerns over the supply-side management by OPEC+ in recent months, suggesting that it could lead to demand destruction. In an interview given to Argus Media, Puri emphasises the need for OPEC+ producers to consider the consequences of their decisions, as high oil prices strain fragile economies.

Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on oil prices

In the face of oil prices persistently hovering over $90 a barrel, the Indian oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri attended an industry conference in Abu Dhabi and he called for sensitivity from oil-producing Nations.

India's economic concerns prompt call for oil price relief

India maintains a healthy dialogue with Russia and will look at what is offered following an announced ownership revamp to the Sakhalin-1 oil and gas project, said Indian Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Indian Petroleum minister: Will weigh what Russia has to offer on Sakhalin-1 ownership revamp

A controversy erupted on Wednesday over the proposed allocation of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) flats to Rohingya refugees, prompting outrage on social media and a clarification from the Union Home Ministry.

While this announcement was welcomed by many, it sparked widespread outrage on social media. People were not only outraged, but also perplexed by this announcement.

Let's take a look at how this controversy developed and how the government responded.

How did the controversy arise?

Earlier in the day, Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted that Rohingya refugees would be relocated to EWS (Economically Weaker Section) flats in Delhi's Bakkarwala neighbourhood, where they would be provided with basic amenities.

Taking aim at political opponents, he stated that those who have made a career out of spreading myths about India's refugee policy and linking it to CAA will be disappointed.

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India has always welcomed those who have sought refuge in the country. In a landmark decision all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rohingya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rohingya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Refugees?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Refugees</a> will be shifted to EWS flats in Bakkarwala area of Delhi. They will be provided basic amenities, UNHCR IDs &amp; round-the-clock <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiPolice</a> protection. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/E5ShkHOxqE">pic.twitter.com/E5ShkHOxqE</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1559722328640040961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Reactions from political parties

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also seized on the contentious issue, objecting to the proposed settlement of Rohingya migrants and accusing the Centre of 'lopsided policy." It also accused the government of ignoring the plight of persecuted Hindu refugees from Pakistan and Bangladesh.

According to reports, over 1,000 Rohingya refugees are living in tents throughout the national capital.

Their deportation and settlement has been a contentious issue for the BJP and its opponents. During elections, the saffron party goes on the offensive against Congress governments, accusing them of infiltration, while the latter denies it and accuses the BJP of contaminating the atmosphere by pandering to a specific voter base.

Clarification from the Indian government

The Indian Home Ministry clarified in a tweet that there was no proposal to provide government flats to Rohingya illegal migrants. It also stated that illegal migrants will be deported and will be held in deportation centres until that happens.

"The government of Delhi has not declared the present location as a detention centre. They have been directed to do the same immediately," tweeted Home Ministry.

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With respect to news reports in certain sections of media regarding Rohingya illegal foreigners, it is clarified that Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has not given any directions to provide EWS flats to Rohingya illegal migrants at Bakkarwala in New Delhi.
— गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia/status/1559832448460292096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Illegal foreigners are to be kept in Detention Centre till their deportation as per law. The Government of Delhi has not declared the present location as a Detention Centre. They have been directed to do the same immediately.
— गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia/status/1559832452876881921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A controversy erupted on Wednesday over the proposed allocation of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) flats to Rohingya refugees, prompting outrage on social media and a clarification from the Union Home Ministry.

A controversy erupted on Wednesday over the proposed allocation of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) flats to Rohingya refugees, prompting outrage on social media and a clarification from the Union Home Ministry. While this announcement was welcomed by many, it sparked widespread outrage on social media. People were not only outraged, but also perplexed by this announcement. Let's take a look at how this controversy developed and how the government responded. How did the controversy arise? Earlier in the day, Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted that Rohingya refugees would be relocated to EWS (Economically Weaker Section) flats in Delhi's Bakkarwala neighbourhood, where they would be provided with basic amenities. Taking aim at political opponents, he stated that those who have made a career out of spreading myths about India's refugee policy and linking it to CAA will be disappointed. India has always welcomed those who have sought refuge in the country. In a landmark decision all #Rohingya #Refugees will be shifted to EWS flats in Bakkarwala area of Delhi. They will be provided basic amenities, UNHCR IDs & round-the-clock @DelhiPolice protection. @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/E5ShkHOxqE — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) August 17, 2022 × Reactions from political parties The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also seized on the contentious issue, objecting to the proposed settlement of Rohingya migrants and accusing the Centre of 'lopsided policy." It also accused the government of ignoring the plight of persecuted Hindu refugees from Pakistan and Bangladesh. According to reports, over 1,000 Rohingya refugees are living in tents throughout the national capital. Their deportation and settlement has been a contentious issue for the BJP and its opponents. During elections, the saffron party goes on the offensive against Congress governments, accusing them of infiltration, while the latter denies it and accuses the BJP of contaminating the atmosphere by pandering to a specific voter base. Clarification from the Indian government The Indian Home Ministry clarified in a tweet that there was no proposal to provide government flats to Rohingya illegal migrants. It also stated that illegal migrants will be deported and will be held in deportation centres until that happens. "The government of Delhi has not declared the present location as a detention centre. They have been directed to do the same immediately," tweeted Home Ministry. With respect to news reports in certain sections of media regarding Rohingya illegal foreigners, it is clarified that Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has not given any directions to provide EWS flats to Rohingya illegal migrants at Bakkarwala in New Delhi. — गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) August 17, 2022 × Illegal foreigners are to be kept in Detention Centre till their deportation as per law. The Government of Delhi has not declared the present location as a Detention Centre. They have been directed to do the same immediately. — गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) August 17, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What is the Rohingyas' residential flats controversy in India?

Watch a candid conversation with Indian Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Hardeep Singh Puri talked about world affairs, economy and crises.

Indian Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri: 'A rich Europe cannot consume more energy'

Energy crisis is anchoring several other crises, says Indian petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri while speaking exclusively to WION at World Economic Forum in Davos.

Davos World Economic Forum: Indian petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri speaks to WION

World Economic Forum Davos: Indian petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri speaks to WION

In pics: India’s fastest metro train for the Delhi-Meerut Rapid Rail RRTS project

As India's Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri received three copies of Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib from Kabul at Delhi airport, the Sikh community is thanking the government for evacuating Indian nationals and bringing back the holy books to the country.

Sikh community thanks Indian government for protecting three holy books

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday showed confidence and ruled out the calculation of several airline companies and aviation experts, which stated about normalcy in the aviation sector will return in 2023. He rather expects it to happen much earlier.

While talking to ANI about normalcy in aviation, Puri said Indian aviation will be back to normalcy after all countrymen are vaccinated in 2021.&nbsp;

"We respect experts' opinions. But in pre-COVID level 4 lakh passengers used to travel in a day. When we started domestic civil aviation on May 25, 2020, on day one there were 30,000 passengers, which increased to 3 lakh 13 thousand till the second wave hit our country. It may have touched four lakh passengers per day and normalcy may have returned but I believe that normalcy will be returned by 2021 after all Indians are vaccinated," Puri said.

In the midst of the pandemic and the COVID second wave, the aviation sector is hit very badly and the passenger load factors have hit a recorded low. "When the second wave came and this passenger traffic came down to 40,000 last week. On Thursday it increased to 80,000 and later it will continue to increase with the decline in COVID cases," said the Union Minister.

The Union Minister emphasised on the positivity rate of COVID cases in Delhi and provided the data. "Delhi's positivity rate is 0.6 per cent and recovery rate is also 90-92 per cent and the mortality rate is also low. This means if you test more than 100 people you only find one person positive," Puri added.

Puri has always advocated for easing restrictions in aviation sectors to see how the virus behaves. "I believe before the second wave of Covid, the aviation sector was about to touch 4 lakh passengers a day as we handled 3 lakh 13 thousand passengers before the second wave starts," he added.

The government has issued orders regarding the sudden change in the number of COVID-19 cases in the second wave, and reduction in passenger numbers and reduction in occupancy by reducing the existing capacity from 80 per cent to 50 per cent.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday showed confidence and ruled out the calculation of several airline companies and aviation experts, which stated about normalcy in the aviation sector will return in 2023.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday showed confidence and ruled out the calculation of several airline companies and aviation experts, which stated about normalcy in the aviation sector will return in 2023. He rather expects it to happen much earlier. While talking to ANI about normalcy in aviation, Puri said Indian aviation will be back to normalcy after all countrymen are vaccinated in 2021. "We respect experts' opinions. But in pre-COVID level 4 lakh passengers used to travel in a day. When we started domestic civil aviation on May 25, 2020, on day one there were 30,000 passengers, which increased to 3 lakh 13 thousand till the second wave hit our country. It may have touched four lakh passengers per day and normalcy may have returned but I believe that normalcy will be returned by 2021 after all Indians are vaccinated," Puri said. In the midst of the pandemic and the COVID second wave, the aviation sector is hit very badly and the passenger load factors have hit a recorded low. "When the second wave came and this passenger traffic came down to 40,000 last week. On Thursday it increased to 80,000 and later it will continue to increase with the decline in COVID cases," said the Union Minister. The Union Minister emphasised on the positivity rate of COVID cases in Delhi and provided the data. "Delhi's positivity rate is 0.6 per cent and recovery rate is also 90-92 per cent and the mortality rate is also low. This means if you test more than 100 people you only find one person positive," Puri added. Puri has always advocated for easing restrictions in aviation sectors to see how the virus behaves. "I believe before the second wave of Covid, the aviation sector was about to touch 4 lakh passengers a day as we handled 3 lakh 13 thousand passengers before the second wave starts," he added. The government has issued orders regarding the sudden change in the number of COVID-19 cases in the second wave, and reduction in passenger numbers and reduction in occupancy by reducing the existing capacity from 80 per cent to 50 per cent.

Pre-COVID level normalcy in civil aviation to return next year: Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said Air India is going to airlift 10,636 oxygen concentrators from several countries in the next week.

"Air India is airlifting 10,636 oxygen concentrators manufactured by Philips. 636 (concentrators) already flown in from the US. Consignments flying in every day. Will be completed within this week," Puri said on Twitter.

India is struggling with the second wave of coronavirus infection and hospitals in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

Twenty people died at Delhi''s Jaipur Golden Hospital last Saturday amid a shortage of medical oxygen.

With 3,23,144 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day, India''s total tally of COVID-19 cases has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The death toll increased to 1,97,894 with 2,771 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said Air India is going to airlift 10,636 oxygen concentrators from several countries in the next week. "Air India is airlifting 10,636 oxygen concentrators manufactured by Philips.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said Air India is going to airlift 10,636 oxygen concentrators from several countries in the next week. "Air India is airlifting 10,636 oxygen concentrators manufactured by Philips. 636 (concentrators) already flown in from the US. Consignments flying in every day. Will be completed within this week," Puri said on Twitter. India is struggling with the second wave of coronavirus infection and hospitals in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. Twenty people died at Delhi''s Jaipur Golden Hospital last Saturday amid a shortage of medical oxygen. With 3,23,144 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day, India''s total tally of COVID-19 cases has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The death toll increased to 1,97,894 with 2,771 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. (With inputs from agencies)

Air India airlifting over 10,000 oxygen concentrators from several countries: Puri

India will resume flights to and from the UK from January 8, civil aviation minister said on Friday.

Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, on Friday said that India-UK flights will resume from January 8 and till January 23, only 15 flights per week each for carriers of the two nations will be permitted.&nbsp;

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It has been decided that flights between India &amp; UK will resume from 8 Jan 2021. 
Operations till 23 Jan will be restricted to 15 flights per week each for carriers of the two countries to &amp; from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru &amp; Hyderabad only. <a href="https://twitter.com/DGCAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DGCAIndia</a> will issue the details shortly
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1345009768390295552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The decision comes after Puri on Wednesday extended the ban of flights to and from the UK till January 7 due to the detection of a new strain of novel coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Over 30 nations have halted air travel to Britain because of the new strain, which UK officials said has gone "out of control".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-expected-take-stock-of-the-current-pandemic-situation-353248">38 UK returnees found positive for COVID in Delhi; new strain detected in four patients: Health Minister</a>

At least four more cases of the new variant have been detected in India on Friday taking the total cases to 29, however, it is still not known how many people amongst these 29 visited the UK.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India will resume flights to and from the UK from January 8, civil aviation minister said on Friday. Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, on Friday said that India-UK flights will resume from January 8 and till January 23, only 15 flights per week each for carriers of the two nations will be permitted.

India will resume flights to and from the UK from January 8, civil aviation minister said on Friday. Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, on Friday said that India-UK flights will resume from January 8 and till January 23, only 15 flights per week each for carriers of the two nations will be permitted. It has been decided that flights between India & UK will resume from 8 Jan 2021. Operations till 23 Jan will be restricted to 15 flights per week each for carriers of the two countries to & from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru & Hyderabad only. @DGCAIndia will issue the details shortly — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) January 1, 2021 × The decision comes after Puri on Wednesday extended the ban of flights to and from the UK till January 7 due to the detection of a new strain of novel coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain. Watch | Over 30 nations have halted air travel to Britain because of the new strain, which UK officials said has gone "out of control". Also read | 38 UK returnees found positive for COVID in Delhi; new strain detected in four patients: Health Minister At least four more cases of the new variant have been detected in India on Friday taking the total cases to 29, however, it is still not known how many people amongst these 29 visited the UK.

India to resume UK flights from January 8

Seventy-two days after resuming domestic flight operations post-COVID-19 lockdown, domestic operations continue to soar, said Union Minister for Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday.

Taking to Twitter, the Minister said, "Domestic operations continue to soar. 3rd August 2020, Day 72 till 23:59 hrs. Departures were 849. 78,155 passengers handled.

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Domestic operations continue to soar. 
 
3rd August 2020, Day 72 till 2359 hrs. 
Departures 849 
78,155 passengers handled. 
Arrivals 846 
77,558 passengers handled. 
Total movements 1695 
Footfalls at airports 1,55,713 
Total number of flyers 78,155 <a href="https://t.co/nAzgSDA1PF">pic.twitter.com/nAzgSDA1PF</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1290534309175029767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Arrivals were 846. 77,558 passengers handled. Total movements were 1695. Footfalls at airports were 1,55,713. Total number of flyers were 78,155.

"Following the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, all domestic and international flight operations were suspended in March. Domestic operations were resumed on May 25.

Seventy-two days after resuming domestic flight operations post-COVID-19 lockdown, domestic operations continue to soar, said Union Minister for Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday.

Seventy-two days after resuming domestic flight operations post-COVID-19 lockdown, domestic operations continue to soar, said Union Minister for Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday. Taking to Twitter, the Minister said, "Domestic operations continue to soar. 3rd August 2020, Day 72 till 23:59 hrs. Departures were 849. 78,155 passengers handled. Domestic operations continue to soar. 3rd August 2020, Day 72 till 2359 hrs. Departures 849 78,155 passengers handled. Arrivals 846 77,558 passengers handled. Total movements 1695 Footfalls at airports 1,55,713 Total number of flyers 78,155 pic.twitter.com/nAzgSDA1PF — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) August 4, 2020 × Arrivals were 846. 77,558 passengers handled. Total movements were 1695. Footfalls at airports were 1,55,713. Total number of flyers were 78,155. "Following the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, all domestic and international flight operations were suspended in March. Domestic operations were resumed on May 25.

Domestic flight operations continue to soar: Hardeep Singh Puri

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