A day after the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) chief in the Indian state of Haryana, Nafe Singh Rathee and his party worker were killed in an ambush, CCTV camera footage, procured on Monday (Feb 26) showed the movement of the alleged killers just before they targeted the politician. Meanwhile, the Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij said that a CBI probe will be conducted into the murder.&nbsp;

<h2>CCTV footage shows alleged assailants</h2>

A purported CCTV footage showing the movement of the assailants just before they targeted the INDL chief has surfaced a day after the attack. Rathee along with an INLD worker was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Haryana’s Jhajjar district.

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Shooters of Haryana INLD Chief Nafe Singh Rathi captured on CCtV. This is from moment before his SUV was ambushed by gunmen. <a href="https://t.co/lMkaajAguN">pic.twitter.com/lMkaajAguN</a>
— Raj Shekhar Jha (@rajshekharx) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajshekharx/status/1761964888510054665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The two-time former MLA and a party worker were travelling when assailants came in a car and sprayed their SUV with bullets, as per a senior member of his party. Three private gunmen hired by Rathee for security also suffered injuries in the attack, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Sparing your life’</h2>

At the time of the gruesome incident, Rathee was accompanied by his nephew Rajesh, according to media reports. Rajesh was reportedly sitting in the front seat of the car when Rathee was shot, while the killer was said to have been sitting in the rear seat.&nbsp;

The assailants, according to media reports, told his nephew that they were “sparing his life” so he could return home and inform everyone about the attack.&nbsp;

As of Monday, the police did not have any definitive leads but are reportedly reviewing CCTV camera footage from nearby areas in a bid to identify the shooters.&nbsp;

A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against four people – Naresh Kaushik, Ramesh Rathi, Sathish Rathi, and Rahul, said Haryana Police officials, earlier on Monday.&nbsp;

“We are collecting evidence from all CCTV cameras and also checking the suspected vehicle,” said Jhajjar DSP Shamsher Singh.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-inld-haryana-president-nafe-singh-rathee-party-worker-fatally-shot-in-jhajjar-693800">&nbsp;India: INLD Haryana president, party worker shot dead in ambush by gunmen in Jhajjar</a>

He added, “We have registered an FIR on the basis of the complaint received. Five teams have been constituted with 2 DSPs to arrest the accused. Investigation is underway. We are collecting physical and scientific evidence.”&nbsp;

<h2>CBI probe to be conducted</h2>

On Monday, the Haryana home minister said that a CBI probe will be conducted into the murder of the INLD chief.&nbsp;

This comes after many in the opposition parties, including senior INLD leader Abhay Chautala accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government of neglecting to provide sufficient security to Rathee despite knowing the threat to his life.&nbsp;

Chautala, on Monday, also demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Home Minister Vij.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-nitasha-kaul-london-based-academic-claiming-orders-from-delhi-prevented-her-from-entering-india-693938">Who is Nitasha Kaul, London-based academic claiming 'orders from Delhi' prevented her from entering India?</a>

“The two-time MLA, who is our state unit chief, was not provided with security. In writing, representations had been made to senior police officers and state home minister that he was facing threats and should be provided with security,” said the senior INLD leader.&nbsp;

“If the House is only satisfied with a CBI probe, then I assure the members that we will hand over the case to the CBI,” Vij said in the Haryana Assembly on Monday.&nbsp;

He also noted that saying that the entire law and order machinery of the state has collapsed is incorrect.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A day after the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) chief in the Indian state of Haryana, Nafe Singh Rathee and his party worker were killed in an ambush, CCTV camera footage, procured on Monday (Feb 26) showed the movement of the alleged killers just before they targeted the politician.

A day after the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) chief in the Indian state of Haryana, Nafe Singh Rathee and his party worker were killed in an ambush, CCTV camera footage, procured on Monday (Feb 26) showed the movement of the alleged killers just before they targeted the politician. Meanwhile, the Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij said that a CBI probe will be conducted into the murder. CCTV footage shows alleged assailants A purported CCTV footage showing the movement of the assailants just before they targeted the INDL chief has surfaced a day after the attack. Rathee along with an INLD worker was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Haryana’s Jhajjar district. Shooters of Haryana INLD Chief Nafe Singh Rathi captured on CCtV. This is from moment before his SUV was ambushed by gunmen. pic.twitter.com/lMkaajAguN — Raj Shekhar Jha (@rajshekharx) February 26, 2024 × The two-time former MLA and a party worker were travelling when assailants came in a car and sprayed their SUV with bullets, as per a senior member of his party. Three private gunmen hired by Rathee for security also suffered injuries in the attack, reported news agency PTI. ‘Sparing your life’ At the time of the gruesome incident, Rathee was accompanied by his nephew Rajesh, according to media reports. Rajesh was reportedly sitting in the front seat of the car when Rathee was shot, while the killer was said to have been sitting in the rear seat. The assailants, according to media reports, told his nephew that they were “sparing his life” so he could return home and inform everyone about the attack. As of Monday, the police did not have any definitive leads but are reportedly reviewing CCTV camera footage from nearby areas in a bid to identify the shooters. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against four people – Naresh Kaushik, Ramesh Rathi, Sathish Rathi, and Rahul, said Haryana Police officials, earlier on Monday. “We are collecting evidence from all CCTV cameras and also checking the suspected vehicle,” said Jhajjar DSP Shamsher Singh. Also Read | India: INLD Haryana president, party worker shot dead in ambush by gunmen in Jhajjar He added, “We have registered an FIR on the basis of the complaint received. Five teams have been constituted with 2 DSPs to arrest the accused. Investigation is underway. We are collecting physical and scientific evidence.” CBI probe to be conducted On Monday, the Haryana home minister said that a CBI probe will be conducted into the murder of the INLD chief. This comes after many in the opposition parties, including senior INLD leader Abhay Chautala accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government of neglecting to provide sufficient security to Rathee despite knowing the threat to his life. Chautala, on Monday, also demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Home Minister Vij. Also Read | Who is Nitasha Kaul, London-based academic claiming 'orders from Delhi' prevented her from entering India? “The two-time MLA, who is our state unit chief, was not provided with security. In writing, representations had been made to senior police officers and state home minister that he was facing threats and should be provided with security,” said the senior INLD leader. “If the House is only satisfied with a CBI probe, then I assure the members that we will hand over the case to the CBI,” Vij said in the Haryana Assembly on Monday. He also noted that saying that the entire law and order machinery of the state has collapsed is incorrect. (With inputs from agencies)

India: First video of Haryana INLD chief Nafe Singh Rathee’s suspected killers surfaces

Foreign Minister&nbsp;Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic, during an exclusive chat with WION, highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation. He also spoke on India's successful G20 presidency.&nbsp;

Here is the transcript of the interview:

WION: How do you see the trajectory of this relationship going forward?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: First of all, hello and thank you for having me. And the relationship is thriving. And there was in the last two years set of high-level visits between both countries, which shows how good the relationship is. It's only on the level of ministers of foreign affairs. It was a business delegation, led by our Ministry of Trade and Industry. It was the visit of the Prime Minister here in India and the signing of a memorandum on technological and scientific cooperation and there will be much more, our common trade is growing. We now have trade-in terms of 4 billion USD, which is more than 10 times then than many years ago. So this is a very good thing. And you know, we are on a good path.&nbsp;

WION: Where do you see the economic cooperation going forward between these countries? India is keen to have a large FTR well, with the European Union, what's your view on that?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: Definitely. We need to continue working on that and then be successful one day.&nbsp;

WION: The economic cooperation between the two countries bilaterally we saw the representation from the Czech Republic during India's vibrant Gujarat, which is one of the key flagship programmes. &nbsp;

Lipavsky: So our companies are active in many sectors. It's automotive. It's a sector of tourism. It's a sector of defence, which is now a new area of cooperation. And it's something which is very promising, and we don't want to sell we want to innovate, we want to make a technological transfer, you know, as it is aligned with the strategy of India to be working on internal growth.&nbsp;

WION: You can highlight the key focus areas in this security strategy and where India and Asia are figures in this security strategy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Lipavsky: So the security strategy basically starts with the description of the environment in which we live. And the situation is not easy. The world is going into something which I described as a world of global confrontation and in such a world you need to have a friend and we want to have India as one of those friends.

WION: On India's aspect, defence has been another key area of cooperation, any elements where we are looking at, are you looking at buying from India or co-production with India which India has been focusing on?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So it depends on companies on military reasonable procurement, but definitely we have a lot of know-how we are willing to, for example, share in the sense that if we want to build a factory which produces something then we also do this technology transfer. So, not everything can be transferred in terms of military equipment, some high-level things will be always protected. But we are also willing to discuss the trade because India is very important.

WION: There are a few irritants as well in the relationship. Nikhil Gupta's case is one such example. What's the current status of this case in your country?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So, we have a division of labour in Czechia as well there is a division of labour in India. So we have an independent judicial system which has been dealing with this case, politicians. And I don't see that much as a return to action.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/estonias-foreign-minister-talks-drones-cybersecurity-and-global-trade-in-exclusive-interview-with-wion-693066">Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION</a>

WION: Do you think that this case can have an impact on the wider relationship between the two countries?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: Honestly, I haven't seen that this would have an impact. I think respect for an independent and free judicial system is a key element of the whole thing. And I hope that the judicial system will deal with the costs.&nbsp;

WION: But has it been a part of the conversation between the two sides, the Indian government and the Czech government part of ongoing cooperation or conversation over this particular issue?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: I'm not I'm not aware of such a conversation.

WION:&nbsp;On the international dimension, there is a conflict going on in Ukraine. How has it impacted the larger European security? It will be two years later. In fact, tomorrow it will be two years. What's your assessment of the ongoing situation in Ukraine?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: First of all, we need to call it the right name. It's not a conflict in Ukraine. It's Russia’s imperialistic war against Europe, which is now materializing in Ukraine, because Putin decided that he will attack Ukraine, and he is not recognizing its borders. If you can fall, if we are not able to support Ukraine and the principles of international law, it will be very easy. It will continue it will snowball. We know this from history. So I know two years of war is a long time. I don't want any imperialistic powers in the world to try to colonize other countries, and Putin is trying to colonize Ukraine. It is a very clear case, he swallowed Crimea, and he swallowed &nbsp;part of the eastern territories of Ukraine proclaiming the part of the Russian Federation which is absurd. You cannot take your soldiers somewhere and say, This is my, we are not living in such a world anymore. And I don't want to live in the world anymore. So I hope that this message will spread across as much as possible and unfilled that Czechia is very much affected by Russia's interest in the war against Ukraine. It is the high energy crisis, it is the war on food and things like that. We have half a million war refugees in 10 million countries, you know, look at the scale. So we are very much affected.

WION: &nbsp;And how is your country supporting Ukraine?

Lipavsky: We are supporting Ukraine in all aspects you can imagine. We are supporting Ukraine politically in international forums like the EU, NATO and in the UN. We are supporting Ukraine by sending humanitarian aid, we are sending military supplies. We are participating in the programmes in the EU which are through macro financial aid or stabilizing the budget of humankind.&nbsp;

WION: In Asia, we have also seen similar cases, China is an example of it. It has been very assertive, and aggressive with countries in the region, including India. Any talks about Chinese aggressive actions in the region.&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So our security strategy, portrays China as a challenge and opportunity and depends on which kind of field we are talking about China, and we want to keep China in the game as much as possible. And we don't want to see any kind of escalation in the region, because we are some of understanding that any kind of escalation in the region has a profound impact on Europe and on Czechia. Look at what simple elements of Houthi’s shooting on ships in the Red Sea, the impact on global trade between Asia and Europe. And ships need to take a longer route... 50 days, it's more costly and slower. Any kind of military escalation in Taiwan would have a profound impact on maritime trade, on the production of microchips, and therefore on the whole economies globally. So we need to be in a dialogue with China. We need to be looking for ways, how to not reach the point but we need to be prepared that if something happens we are ready.&nbsp;

WION: So since you mentioned the Red Sea crisis, I'll come to that bit but India during this event dependency announced with other countries, the India West Asia, Europe corridor to make this corridor. What's your assessment about this connectivity project? And do you think that this connectivity project will be impacted by the ongoing conflict Israel Hamas conflict, which is underway?

Lipavsky: So this corridor is dependent on physical security. And if you have extra rights like Iran, which is supporting actively, many militias in the region and basically named that this physical security disappears, so we should be very, very aware and we need to build up coalition, which will be stabilizing this region, because, without the route, you cannot have coverage.&nbsp;

WION: Your assessment of the conflict. What is your country’s stance on the Israel Gaza conflict, and the Red Sea crisis?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So it impacts indirectly through the curb on maritime trade. Of course, Israel has the right to self-defence, but also humanitarian international humanitarian law needs to be abided by. So we have a very principled position.

WION: Moving back to India, there are areas like educational cooperation and cultural cooperation, you can elaborate on what one can expect in the near future.&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So, I give you one example of what is already happening between Czechia and then India is the magic centre of artificial intelligence, robotics and cybernetics. It's a basically new scientific institution, which is now being built at University in Jaipur. We are also inviting students from India. It was a few years ago when there were only 350 Indian students in Prague, and now it's almost 2000. And it's very important to know that also our embassy here offers language courses for example, so we have a very thriving and good cooperation also in this field, and science and technology. Yes, definitely. This is a part of that. And since we have this memorandum, we need to be looking for opportunities, and how to filter it.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the issue like the UNSC reforms? Your country had been backing India on several fronts, including the Nuclear Suppliers Group as well if you can elaborate on that.&nbsp;

Lipavsky: So we are running for the non-permanent seat of the Security Council in the UN&nbsp; and we fully support the reforms of the Security Council because it needs to reflect the current world, not the world&nbsp;which was there eight years ago.&nbsp;

WION: Does that mean that you country supports India's bid for reforms in Security Council?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: Basically, India is always part of those schemes because of the size and the importance of this country. So you know, that countries are looking, so you have us on your side.

WION: How do you see India’s G20 presidency, India as a voice of the Global South?&nbsp;

Lipavsky: Very successful and very ambitious presidency and I was happy to see this kind of leadership. 
&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic, during an exclusive chat with WION, highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation.

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic, during an exclusive chat with WION, highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation. He also spoke on India's successful G20 presidency. Here is the transcript of the interview: WION: How do you see the trajectory of this relationship going forward? Lipavsky: First of all, hello and thank you for having me. And the relationship is thriving. And there was in the last two years set of high-level visits between both countries, which shows how good the relationship is. It's only on the level of ministers of foreign affairs. It was a business delegation, led by our Ministry of Trade and Industry. It was the visit of the Prime Minister here in India and the signing of a memorandum on technological and scientific cooperation and there will be much more, our common trade is growing. We now have trade-in terms of 4 billion USD, which is more than 10 times then than many years ago. So this is a very good thing. And you know, we are on a good path. WION: Where do you see the economic cooperation going forward between these countries? India is keen to have a large FTR well, with the European Union, what's your view on that? Lipavsky: Definitely. We need to continue working on that and then be successful one day. WION: The economic cooperation between the two countries bilaterally we saw the representation from the Czech Republic during India's vibrant Gujarat, which is one of the key flagship programmes. Lipavsky: So our companies are active in many sectors. It's automotive. It's a sector of tourism. It's a sector of defence, which is now a new area of cooperation. And it's something which is very promising, and we don't want to sell we want to innovate, we want to make a technological transfer, you know, as it is aligned with the strategy of India to be working on internal growth. WION: You can highlight the key focus areas in this security strategy and where India and Asia are figures in this security strategy. Lipavsky: So the security strategy basically starts with the description of the environment in which we live. And the situation is not easy. The world is going into something which I described as a world of global confrontation and in such a world you need to have a friend and we want to have India as one of those friends. WION: On India's aspect, defence has been another key area of cooperation, any elements where we are looking at, are you looking at buying from India or co-production with India which India has been focusing on? Lipavsky: So it depends on companies on military reasonable procurement, but definitely we have a lot of know-how we are willing to, for example, share in the sense that if we want to build a factory which produces something then we also do this technology transfer. So, not everything can be transferred in terms of military equipment, some high-level things will be always protected. But we are also willing to discuss the trade because India is very important. WION: There are a few irritants as well in the relationship. Nikhil Gupta's case is one such example. What's the current status of this case in your country? Lipavsky: So, we have a division of labour in Czechia as well there is a division of labour in India. So we have an independent judicial system which has been dealing with this case, politicians. And I don't see that much as a return to action. Also read: Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION WION: Do you think that this case can have an impact on the wider relationship between the two countries? Lipavsky: Honestly, I haven't seen that this would have an impact. I think respect for an independent and free judicial system is a key element of the whole thing. And I hope that the judicial system will deal with the costs. WION: But has it been a part of the conversation between the two sides, the Indian government and the Czech government part of ongoing cooperation or conversation over this particular issue? Lipavsky: I'm not I'm not aware of such a conversation. WION: On the international dimension, there is a conflict going on in Ukraine. How has it impacted the larger European security? It will be two years later. In fact, tomorrow it will be two years. What's your assessment of the ongoing situation in Ukraine? Lipavsky: First of all, we need to call it the right name. It's not a conflict in Ukraine. It's Russia’s imperialistic war against Europe, which is now materializing in Ukraine, because Putin decided that he will attack Ukraine, and he is not recognizing its borders. If you can fall, if we are not able to support Ukraine and the principles of international law, it will be very easy. It will continue it will snowball. We know this from history. So I know two years of war is a long time. I don't want any imperialistic powers in the world to try to colonize other countries, and Putin is trying to colonize Ukraine. It is a very clear case, he swallowed Crimea, and he swallowed part of the eastern territories of Ukraine proclaiming the part of the Russian Federation which is absurd. You cannot take your soldiers somewhere and say, This is my, we are not living in such a world anymore. And I don't want to live in the world anymore. So I hope that this message will spread across as much as possible and unfilled that Czechia is very much affected by Russia's interest in the war against Ukraine. It is the high energy crisis, it is the war on food and things like that. We have half a million war refugees in 10 million countries, you know, look at the scale. So we are very much affected. WION: And how is your country supporting Ukraine? Lipavsky: We are supporting Ukraine in all aspects you can imagine. We are supporting Ukraine politically in international forums like the EU, NATO and in the UN. We are supporting Ukraine by sending humanitarian aid, we are sending military supplies. We are participating in the programmes in the EU which are through macro financial aid or stabilizing the budget of humankind. WION: In Asia, we have also seen similar cases, China is an example of it. It has been very assertive, and aggressive with countries in the region, including India. Any talks about Chinese aggressive actions in the region. Lipavsky: So our security strategy, portrays China as a challenge and opportunity and depends on which kind of field we are talking about China, and we want to keep China in the game as much as possible. And we don't want to see any kind of escalation in the region, because we are some of understanding that any kind of escalation in the region has a profound impact on Europe and on Czechia. Look at what simple elements of Houthi’s shooting on ships in the Red Sea, the impact on global trade between Asia and Europe. And ships need to take a longer route... 50 days, it's more costly and slower. Any kind of military escalation in Taiwan would have a profound impact on maritime trade, on the production of microchips, and therefore on the whole economies globally. So we need to be in a dialogue with China. We need to be looking for ways, how to not reach the point but we need to be prepared that if something happens we are ready. WION: So since you mentioned the Red Sea crisis, I'll come to that bit but India during this event dependency announced with other countries, the India West Asia, Europe corridor to make this corridor. What's your assessment about this connectivity project? And do you think that this connectivity project will be impacted by the ongoing conflict Israel Hamas conflict, which is underway? Lipavsky: So this corridor is dependent on physical security. And if you have extra rights like Iran, which is supporting actively, many militias in the region and basically named that this physical security disappears, so we should be very, very aware and we need to build up coalition, which will be stabilizing this region, because, without the route, you cannot have coverage. WION: Your assessment of the conflict. What is your country’s stance on the Israel Gaza conflict, and the Red Sea crisis? Lipavsky: So it impacts indirectly through the curb on maritime trade. Of course, Israel has the right to self-defence, but also humanitarian international humanitarian law needs to be abided by. So we have a very principled position. WION: Moving back to India, there are areas like educational cooperation and cultural cooperation, you can elaborate on what one can expect in the near future. Lipavsky: So, I give you one example of what is already happening between Czechia and then India is the magic centre of artificial intelligence, robotics and cybernetics. It's a basically new scientific institution, which is now being built at University in Jaipur. We are also inviting students from India. It was a few years ago when there were only 350 Indian students in Prague, and now it's almost 2000. And it's very important to know that also our embassy here offers language courses for example, so we have a very thriving and good cooperation also in this field, and science and technology. Yes, definitely. This is a part of that. And since we have this memorandum, we need to be looking for opportunities, and how to filter it. WION: How do you see the issue like the UNSC reforms? Your country had been backing India on several fronts, including the Nuclear Suppliers Group as well if you can elaborate on that. Lipavsky: So we are running for the non-permanent seat of the Security Council in the UN and we fully support the reforms of the Security Council because it needs to reflect the current world, not the world which was there eight years ago. WION: Does that mean that you country supports India's bid for reforms in Security Council? Lipavsky: Basically, India is always part of those schemes because of the size and the importance of this country. So you know, that countries are looking, so you have us on your side. WION: How do you see India’s G20 presidency, India as a voice of the Global South? Lipavsky: Very successful and very ambitious presidency and I was happy to see this kind of leadership.

Exclusive: Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky highlights country's readiness to cooperate with India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.

The projects are worth over $4.94&nbsp;(Rs 41,000 crores).

During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'.

"Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said.

He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government.

"Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said.

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&nbsp;

As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore).&nbsp;&nbsp;

These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694">‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka</a>

<h2>PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024</h2>

Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country.

While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity."

At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand.

"It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing. The projects are worth over $4.94 (Rs 41,000 crores). During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'. "Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said. He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government. "Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "Today, the foundation stone of more than 2,000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start from June but the scale and speed with which work has been started is… pic.twitter.com/GdxuV493wC — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024 × As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore). These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city. Also read: ‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024 Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country. While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity." At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand. "It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi inaugurates over 2000 railway infrastructure projects

Haryana opposition leader Nafe Singh Rathee, who was the state president of the Indian National Lok Dal, and a party worker were killed when unidentified assailants came in a car and sprayed bullets on their SUV in Bahadurgarh near Delhi on Sunday, a senior party leader said.

Three private gunmen hired by Rathee for security also suffered injuries in the attack, said reports.

The attack, which came weeks before the Lok Sabha elections, raised political temperature and drew sharp reactions from opposition parties, which alleged a breakdown in law and order in the BJP-ruled state.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij said he spoke to officials and ordered them to take immediate action in the matter.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seat-sharing-talks-congress-accused-of-erasing-ahmed-patels-legacy-as-bharuch-constituency-given-to-aap-693686">India elections: Congress accused of erasing Ahmed Patel's legacy as Bharuch constituency given to AAP</a>

He said the Special Task Force is probing the matter and the culprits will be nabbed soon.

INLD leader Abhay Chautala told PTI news agency that Rathee and a party worker accompanying him were shot dead.

Three private gunmen, whom Rathee had hired for security, also received injuries, Chautala said, adding, "No police security had been given to him."

Chautala later visited the hospital in Bahadurgarh where the bodies were kept.

Speaking to reporters there, he demanded a CBI probe into the incident.

Rathee, aged around 70, was travelling in an SUV when the assailants, who were in a car, attacked him in Bahadurgarh town in Jhajjar district.

"A volley of bullets was sprayed at him," Chautala said.

Doctors at the hospital said that Rathee had suffered injuries in neck, stomach, spine and thigh and suffered heavy blood loss.

Rathee was elected MLA from Bahadurgarh twice in 1996 and 2005. 
 
Rathee himself faced a series of criminal charges including cheating, breach of trust, forgery, and criminal conspiracy, among others.

In January 2023, the Haryana Police filed an FIR against Rathee and five others in connection with the alleged suicide of local BJP leader Jagdish Numberdar.&nbsp; 
 
A lookout circular was issued by the Jhajjar district police to prevent Rathee from leaving the country.&nbsp; 
 
As per reports, police suspect the involvement of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close aide Kala Jathedi in&nbsp;the fatal attack on Rathee&nbsp;and initial inquiries point to some property disputes.

Chautala accused the government of failing to provide Rathee with security despite there being a threat to his life and demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Home Minister Anil Vij.

"The two-time MLA, who is our state unit chief, was not provided with security. In writing, representations had been made to senior police officers and state home minister that he was facing threats and should be provided with security," he said.

"Rathee had earlier told me that that he was informed by some police personnel that he faces threat. Later, I also spoke to SP Jhajjar over the phone and brought this to his notice....Had he been provided with security, such a situation would not have arisen," Chautala said.

He also said that law and order has broken down in Haryana and that has been proved yet again.

Jhajjar Superintendent of Police Arpit Jain told reporters that teams of the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) and the Special Task Force (STF) of the police were looking into the incident.

"Multiple teams are probing. We are probing all angles and we will try to arrest the accused soon," he said.

The opposition Congress and Aam Aadmi Party also hit out at the Manohar Lal Khattar government over the incident.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-to-table-property-damage-recovery-bill-weeks-after-haldwani-violence-693792">Uttarakhand to table ‘property damage recovery’ bill weeks after Haldwani violence</a>

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the BJP has ruined law and order in Haryana.

Senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda while expressing grief at Rathee's killing, said, "The news of INLD state president Nafe Singh Rathee being shot dead in Haryana is very sad. This reflects the law and order of the state...Today no one is feeling safe in the state."

Another senior Congress leader, Kumari Selja, alleged that anarchy has increased so much in the state that fearless miscreants fired several rounds of bullets at Rathee.

The BJP has created a jungle raj in the state, she alleged. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Haryana opposition leader Nafe Singh Rathee, who was the state president of the Indian National Lok Dal, and a party worker were killed when unidentified assailants came in a car and sprayed bullets on their SUV in Bahadurgarh near Delhi on Sunday, a senior party leader said.

Haryana opposition leader Nafe Singh Rathee, who was the state president of the Indian National Lok Dal, and a party worker were killed when unidentified assailants came in a car and sprayed bullets on their SUV in Bahadurgarh near Delhi on Sunday, a senior party leader said. Three private gunmen hired by Rathee for security also suffered injuries in the attack, said reports. The attack, which came weeks before the Lok Sabha elections, raised political temperature and drew sharp reactions from opposition parties, which alleged a breakdown in law and order in the BJP-ruled state. Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij said he spoke to officials and ordered them to take immediate action in the matter. Also Read | India elections: Congress accused of erasing Ahmed Patel's legacy as Bharuch constituency given to AAP He said the Special Task Force is probing the matter and the culprits will be nabbed soon. INLD leader Abhay Chautala told PTI news agency that Rathee and a party worker accompanying him were shot dead. Three private gunmen, whom Rathee had hired for security, also received injuries, Chautala said, adding, "No police security had been given to him." Chautala later visited the hospital in Bahadurgarh where the bodies were kept. Speaking to reporters there, he demanded a CBI probe into the incident. Rathee, aged around 70, was travelling in an SUV when the assailants, who were in a car, attacked him in Bahadurgarh town in Jhajjar district. "A volley of bullets was sprayed at him," Chautala said. Doctors at the hospital said that Rathee had suffered injuries in neck, stomach, spine and thigh and suffered heavy blood loss. Rathee was elected MLA from Bahadurgarh twice in 1996 and 2005. Rathee himself faced a series of criminal charges including cheating, breach of trust, forgery, and criminal conspiracy, among others. In January 2023, the Haryana Police filed an FIR against Rathee and five others in connection with the alleged suicide of local BJP leader Jagdish Numberdar. A lookout circular was issued by the Jhajjar district police to prevent Rathee from leaving the country. As per reports, police suspect the involvement of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close aide Kala Jathedi in the fatal attack on Rathee and initial inquiries point to some property disputes. Chautala accused the government of failing to provide Rathee with security despite there being a threat to his life and demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Home Minister Anil Vij. "The two-time MLA, who is our state unit chief, was not provided with security. In writing, representations had been made to senior police officers and state home minister that he was facing threats and should be provided with security," he said. "Rathee had earlier told me that that he was informed by some police personnel that he faces threat. Later, I also spoke to SP Jhajjar over the phone and brought this to his notice....Had he been provided with security, such a situation would not have arisen," Chautala said. He also said that law and order has broken down in Haryana and that has been proved yet again. Jhajjar Superintendent of Police Arpit Jain told reporters that teams of the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) and the Special Task Force (STF) of the police were looking into the incident. "Multiple teams are probing. We are probing all angles and we will try to arrest the accused soon," he said. The opposition Congress and Aam Aadmi Party also hit out at the Manohar Lal Khattar government over the incident. Also Read | Uttarakhand to table ‘property damage recovery’ bill weeks after Haldwani violence Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the BJP has ruined law and order in Haryana. Senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda while expressing grief at Rathee's killing, said, "The news of INLD state president Nafe Singh Rathee being shot dead in Haryana is very sad. This reflects the law and order of the state...Today no one is feeling safe in the state." Another senior Congress leader, Kumari Selja, alleged that anarchy has increased so much in the state that fearless miscreants fired several rounds of bullets at Rathee. The BJP has created a jungle raj in the state, she alleged. (With inputs from agencies)

India: INLD Haryana president, party worker shot dead in ambush by gunmen in Jhajjar

In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25).

The goods train was running at a speed of over 100 km per hour before it was brought to a halt near Ucchi Bassi railway station in Mukerian with the help of sand bags.

The train was reportedly laden with chip stones and was on its way to Punjab from Jammu.&nbsp;

The video of the train, which went viral on the internet, shows it passing by a railway station at a very high speed.

The unusual incident took place between 7.25 am and 9 am, when, as per the officials, the train had halted at the Kathua railway station in Jammu for a driver change.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Hoshiarpur, Punjab: The freight train, which was at a halt at Kathua Station, was stopped near Ucchi Bassi in Mukerian Punjab. The train had suddenly started running without the driver, due to a slope <a href="https://t.co/ll2PSrjY1I">https://t.co/ll2PSrjY1I</a> <a href="https://t.co/9SlPyPBjqr">pic.twitter.com/9SlPyPBjqr</a>
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The 53-wagon train probably began to roll down a slope gradient track on the Jammu-Jalandhar section and gained speed along the way, a spokesperson of the Northern Railway said, citing preliminary information.

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"The train was stopped after a Railway official placed wood blocks on the tracks," officials said.

Both the loco pilot and assistant loco pilot were not aboard the goods train.

The officials said that no damage or casualty was reported in the incident further adding that an inquiry has been launched to find out its exact cause.

"No casualty was reported in the incident," officials said.

“An inquiry has been initiated to know the exact cause of the incident. Prima facie, it seems that the train started rolling down the slope gradient towards Punjab without the driver and his assistant,” Divisional Traffic Manager, Jammu, Prateek Srivastava told news agency PTI.

Whether the train had been "secured" appropriately at Kathua on the down gradient is currently under investigation, said the spokesperson adding that an extensive probe into the matter was underway.

Railway officials and staffers along the route were put on alert.

Government Railway Police (Jalandhar) Sub-Inspector Ashok Kumar stated that all the rail-road crossings on the Jalandhar-Pathankot section were secured after receiving information about the freight train.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25).

In a shocking incident from the north Indian state of Punjab, a freight train travelled more than 70 kilometres from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir to Hoshiarpur district without its driver on Sunday (Feb 25). The goods train was running at a speed of over 100 km per hour before it was brought to a halt near Ucchi Bassi railway station in Mukerian with the help of sand bags. The train was reportedly laden with chip stones and was on its way to Punjab from Jammu. The video of the train, which went viral on the internet, shows it passing by a railway station at a very high speed. The unusual incident took place between 7.25 am and 9 am, when, as per the officials, the train had halted at the Kathua railway station in Jammu for a driver change. #WATCH | Hoshiarpur, Punjab: The freight train, which was at a halt at Kathua Station, was stopped near Ucchi Bassi in Mukerian Punjab. The train had suddenly started running without the driver, due to a slope https://t.co/ll2PSrjY1I pic.twitter.com/9SlPyPBjqr — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × The 53-wagon train probably began to roll down a slope gradient track on the Jammu-Jalandhar section and gained speed along the way, a spokesperson of the Northern Railway said, citing preliminary information. Also read: ‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka "The train was stopped after a Railway official placed wood blocks on the tracks," officials said. Both the loco pilot and assistant loco pilot were not aboard the goods train. The officials said that no damage or casualty was reported in the incident further adding that an inquiry has been launched to find out its exact cause. "No casualty was reported in the incident," officials said. “An inquiry has been initiated to know the exact cause of the incident. Prima facie, it seems that the train started rolling down the slope gradient towards Punjab without the driver and his assistant,” Divisional Traffic Manager, Jammu, Prateek Srivastava told news agency PTI. Whether the train had been "secured" appropriately at Kathua on the down gradient is currently under investigation, said the spokesperson adding that an extensive probe into the matter was underway. Railway officials and staffers along the route were put on alert. Government Railway Police (Jalandhar) Sub-Inspector Ashok Kumar stated that all the rail-road crossings on the Jalandhar-Pathankot section were secured after receiving information about the freight train. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Freight train travels for over 70 km without drivers in India's Punjab

A man from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been arrested for murdering his 50-year-old mother so that he could claim life insurance money to pay off debts accumulated due to his online gaming addiction.&nbsp;

The shocking incident has come to light from the city of Fatehpur where the accused, identified as Himanshu hatched an elaborate plan to fund his addiction.

According to the police, the accused was addicted to a gaming app where repeated losses had prompted him to borrow and keep playing.&nbsp;

After running through the money, Himanshu realised he was in debt of more than Rs 4 lakh ($4,800). With the creditors breathing down his neck, Himanshu stole his paternal aunt's jewellery and used the money to buy life insurance policies worth Rs 50 lakh ($60,300)&nbsp;each for his parents.&nbsp;

Additional SP of Fatehpur said&nbsp;after purchasing the policy, he waited for his father to leave the house. One day when his father Roshan Singh went to the Hanuman temple in Chitrakoot, Himanshu seized upon the opportunity and allegedly choked his mother Prabha to death.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-problems-with-video-gaming-518531">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The problems with video gaming</a>

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<h2>Uncovering the body</h2>

After killing his mother he put her body in a jute bag and drove his tractor to the Yamuna rover to dispose it of.&nbsp;His crime was only exposed after the father returned and upon not finding either his wife or son, started&nbsp;making inquiries.&nbsp;

The neighbours informed Roshan that they had last seen Himanshu near the riverbank on a tractor. Subsequently, the police was alerted, leading to the recovery of Prabha's body on February 21. Soon, Himanshu, who was on the run, was apprehended.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/gang-using-gaming-app-for-religious-conversion-surfaces-in-up-centre-seeks-detailed-report-601145">Also read |&nbsp;India: Gang allegedly using gaming app for religious conversion; Centre seeks detailed report</a>

"The son was on the run after murdering his mother. We caught him and unearthed the sinister crime," senior police officer Vijay Shankar Mishra said.

During interrogation, Himanshu revealed the entire plot and said his addiction had forced him to take such drastic measure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A man from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been arrested for murdering his 50-year-old mother so that he could claim life insurance money to pay off debts accumulated due to his online gaming addiction.

A man from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been arrested for murdering his 50-year-old mother so that he could claim life insurance money to pay off debts accumulated due to his online gaming addiction. The shocking incident has come to light from the city of Fatehpur where the accused, identified as Himanshu hatched an elaborate plan to fund his addiction. According to the police, the accused was addicted to a gaming app where repeated losses had prompted him to borrow and keep playing. After running through the money, Himanshu realised he was in debt of more than Rs 4 lakh ($4,800). With the creditors breathing down his neck, Himanshu stole his paternal aunt's jewellery and used the money to buy life insurance policies worth Rs 50 lakh ($60,300) each for his parents. Additional SP of Fatehpur said after purchasing the policy, he waited for his father to leave the house. One day when his father Roshan Singh went to the Hanuman temple in Chitrakoot, Himanshu seized upon the opportunity and allegedly choked his mother Prabha to death. Watch | Gravitas: The problems with video gaming × Uncovering the body After killing his mother he put her body in a jute bag and drove his tractor to the Yamuna rover to dispose it of. His crime was only exposed after the father returned and upon not finding either his wife or son, started making inquiries. The neighbours informed Roshan that they had last seen Himanshu near the riverbank on a tractor. Subsequently, the police was alerted, leading to the recovery of Prabha's body on February 21. Soon, Himanshu, who was on the run, was apprehended. Also read | India: Gang allegedly using gaming app for religious conversion; Centre seeks detailed report "The son was on the run after murdering his mother. We caught him and unearthed the sinister crime," senior police officer Vijay Shankar Mishra said. During interrogation, Himanshu revealed the entire plot and said his addiction had forced him to take such drastic measure. (With inputs from agencies)

Addicted to online gaming, Indian man kills mother to claim life insurance money

The per capita monthly household expenditure in India more than doubled over the last decade, according to a report released late Saturday (Feb 24) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The report also found that Indians are spending less on food and more on discretionary items like clothes, television, and entertainment.&nbsp;

<h2>Expenditure more than doubled</h2>

The report by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), which operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, conducted the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) from August 2022 to July 2023.&nbsp;

The report shows household Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) in rural and urban areas as well as for different socio-economic groups.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-has-potential-to-become-the-worlds-third-largest-economy-latvian-fm-krisjanis-karins-693141">Exclusive | India has potential to become the world's third-largest economy: Latvian FM Krišjānis Kariņš</a>

The average MPCE at current prices, according to the survey, more than doubled to Rs 6,459 ($77.93)&nbsp;a month per person in urban areas in 2022-23 from Rs 2,630 ($31.73) in 2011-12.

Meanwhile, in the rural areas, the average MPCE rose from Rs 1,430 ($17.25)&nbsp;a month per person in 2011-12 to Rs 3,773 ($45.52) in 2022-23, according to the report.&nbsp;

<h2>Indians spent more on discretionary items</h2>

The report also shows that Indians spent less on food, particularly staples like rice and wheat when compared to discretionary items such as processed food, as well as durables like televisions.&nbsp;

“The latest consumer expenditure survey gives insight on spending patterns of Indian households and is key to gauge demand in the economy,” said the report.&nbsp;

It added, “The data will also be used by the government to readjust items considered for calculating retail inflation and gross domestic product data.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seat-sharing-talks-congress-accused-of-erasing-ahmed-patels-legacy-as-bharuch-constituency-given-to-aap-693686">India elections: Congress accused of erasing Ahmed Patel's legacy as Bharuch constituency given to AAP</a>

The report shows spending on food fell to 46 per cent of monthly consumption for consumers in rural areas, which is nearly seven per cent less than in 2011-12. Meanwhile, in urban areas, it fell from 43 per cent to 39 per cent.&nbsp;

Indians are reportedly spending more on beverages and processed food, as compared to cereals like wheat, rice and pulses.&nbsp;

The findings of the survey will form the basis of a review of India’s consumer price inflation index.&nbsp;

Notably, the Indian government did not release the 2017-2018 survey citing “data quality issues” prompting criticism and accusations that it was concealing economic data. However, it rejected claims that it was withholding the data because it showed weak consumption trends.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The per capita monthly household expenditure in India more than doubled over the last decade, according to a report released late Saturday (Feb 24) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

The per capita monthly household expenditure in India more than doubled over the last decade, according to a report released late Saturday (Feb 24) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The report also found that Indians are spending less on food and more on discretionary items like clothes, television, and entertainment. Expenditure more than doubled The report by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), which operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, conducted the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) from August 2022 to July 2023. The report shows household Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) in rural and urban areas as well as for different socio-economic groups. Also Read | Exclusive | India has potential to become the world's third-largest economy: Latvian FM Krišjānis Kariņš The average MPCE at current prices, according to the survey, more than doubled to Rs 6,459 ($77.93) a month per person in urban areas in 2022-23 from Rs 2,630 ($31.73) in 2011-12. Meanwhile, in the rural areas, the average MPCE rose from Rs 1,430 ($17.25) a month per person in 2011-12 to Rs 3,773 ($45.52) in 2022-23, according to the report. Indians spent more on discretionary items The report also shows that Indians spent less on food, particularly staples like rice and wheat when compared to discretionary items such as processed food, as well as durables like televisions. “The latest consumer expenditure survey gives insight on spending patterns of Indian households and is key to gauge demand in the economy,” said the report. It added, “The data will also be used by the government to readjust items considered for calculating retail inflation and gross domestic product data.” Also Read | India elections: Congress accused of erasing Ahmed Patel's legacy as Bharuch constituency given to AAP The report shows spending on food fell to 46 per cent of monthly consumption for consumers in rural areas, which is nearly seven per cent less than in 2011-12. Meanwhile, in urban areas, it fell from 43 per cent to 39 per cent. Indians are reportedly spending more on beverages and processed food, as compared to cereals like wheat, rice and pulses. The findings of the survey will form the basis of a review of India’s consumer price inflation index. Notably, the Indian government did not release the 2017-2018 survey citing “data quality issues” prompting criticism and accusations that it was concealing economic data. However, it rejected claims that it was withholding the data because it showed weak consumption trends. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Monthly household consumer spending more than doubled in last decade, shows govt data

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an&nbsp;impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.

As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent,&nbsp;followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent.

United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president.

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving.

As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5.

In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent.

<h2>A consistent triumph for Modi&nbsp;</h2>

Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said.&nbsp;

These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult. As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent, followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent. United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president. Also read: Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving. As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5. In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent. A consistent triumph for Modi Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said. These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi emerges as most popular global leader, tops the charts with high 78% approval rating

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.&nbsp;

He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers".

"Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said.

He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While&nbsp;on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… <a href="https://t.co/Zm1GTAWZ1g">pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g</a>
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&nbsp;

"On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added.

Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and&nbsp;Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in&nbsp;view of the protest.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-to-hold-candle-march-as-toll-amid-protest-reaches-four-693322">Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four</a>

<h2>Tikait urges for solution through dialogue</h2>

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue.

"People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled. He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers". "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said. He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29. #WATCH | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × "On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added. Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in view of the protest. Also read: Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four Tikait urges for solution through dialogue Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue. "People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian farmers vow to continue agitation until demands fulfilled, state border reopens partially

The Indian government is likely to announce a 4 per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for central government employees next month, i.e. in March 2024, according to reports.

Dearness allowance and dearness relief will see an increase of 50 per cent after the 4 per cent hike in DA.

The central government decides the quantum of hike in DA and dearness relief (DR) on the basis of the All-India CPI-IW data.

The Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) was 392.83 on average for a 12-month period. According to this, the DA comes out to be 50.26 per cent of the basic pay.

DA is given to the ones employed by the government, whereas, DR is given to pensioners.&nbsp;

Both DA and DR witness a hike twice a year, i.e. in January as well as in July.

The DA was raised by 4% to 46% in October 2023 during the most recent increment. The next DA hike is anticipated to be 4% given the current rate of inflation.

As per the official data, there are 69.76 lakh pensioners and 47.58 lakh central government employees.

After the upcoming DA hike, both employees and pensioners will be benefitted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-to-hold-candle-march-as-toll-amid-protest-reaches-four-693322">Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four</a>

<h2>How DA hike is determined?</h2>

The government decides on DA increases based on the country's inflation rate. If inflation is high, the DA will most likely be raised further.

The DA and DR increases are determined by the percentage increase in the 12-month average of the All India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) for the fiscal year.

Although the central government revises the allowances on January 1st and July 1st of each year, the decision is usually announced in March and September.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government is likely to announce a 4 per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for central government employees next month, i.e. in March 2024, according to reports.

The Indian government is likely to announce a 4 per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for central government employees next month, i.e. in March 2024, according to reports. Dearness allowance and dearness relief will see an increase of 50 per cent after the 4 per cent hike in DA. The central government decides the quantum of hike in DA and dearness relief (DR) on the basis of the All-India CPI-IW data. The Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) was 392.83 on average for a 12-month period. According to this, the DA comes out to be 50.26 per cent of the basic pay. DA is given to the ones employed by the government, whereas, DR is given to pensioners. Both DA and DR witness a hike twice a year, i.e. in January as well as in July. The DA was raised by 4% to 46% in October 2023 during the most recent increment. The next DA hike is anticipated to be 4% given the current rate of inflation. As per the official data, there are 69.76 lakh pensioners and 47.58 lakh central government employees. After the upcoming DA hike, both employees and pensioners will be benefitted. Also read: Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four How DA hike is determined? The government decides on DA increases based on the country's inflation rate. If inflation is high, the DA will most likely be raised further. The DA and DR increases are determined by the percentage increase in the 12-month average of the All India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) for the fiscal year. Although the central government revises the allowances on January 1st and July 1st of each year, the decision is usually announced in March and September. (With inputs from agencies)

7th Pay Commission: Central government employees in India could see 4 per cent DA hike in March

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and senior Shiv Sena&nbsp;leader Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 at around 3 am on Friday (Feb 23) due to age-related health complications.

He was admitted to the ICU of PD Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday after he suffered a cardiac arrest.

The hospital had released a statement saying that Joshi was in the Intensive Care Unit, under close observation.

"Mr Manohar Joshi, Ex-Chief Minister of Maharashtra, was admitted at P.D. Hinduja Hospital on 21st February 2024. He suffered a cardiac event and is severely ill," said the statement issued by Hinduja Hospital.

The Shiv Sena stalwart was admitted to the same hospital in May 2023 after he suffered a brain haemorrhage.

Joshi served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from the year 1995 to 1999 and was the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 2002 to 2004.&nbsp;

He was also a Member of Rajya Sabha from 2006 to 2012, and Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises from 1999 to 2002.

<h2>PM Modi condoles demise of Joshi</h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was pained by the veteran leader's demise.

"Pained by the passing away of Manohar Joshi. He was a veteran leader who spent years in public service and held various responsibilities at the municipal, state and national levels. As Maharashtra CM, he worked tirelessly for the state's progress. He also made noteworthy contributions as a Union Minister," PM Modi said in a post on X.

PM Modi further said that Joshi will be remembered for his diligence as a legislator.

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&nbsp;

"During his tenure as the Lok Sabha Speaker, he strove to make our Parliamentary processes more vibrant and participative. Manohar Joshi Ji will also be remembered for his diligence as a legislator, having had the honour of serving in all four legislatures. Condolences to his family and supporters," he wrote.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condoling Joshi's demise said that his contribution to society, politics and the field of education was immense.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray described Joshi as a trusted aide of Sena founder Bal Thackeray and someone who fought for the rights of the Marathi people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 at around 3 am on Friday (Feb 23) due to age-related health complications.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 at around 3 am on Friday (Feb 23) due to age-related health complications. He was admitted to the ICU of PD Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday after he suffered a cardiac arrest. The hospital had released a statement saying that Joshi was in the Intensive Care Unit, under close observation. "Mr Manohar Joshi, Ex-Chief Minister of Maharashtra, was admitted at P.D. Hinduja Hospital on 21st February 2024. He suffered a cardiac event and is severely ill," said the statement issued by Hinduja Hospital. The Shiv Sena stalwart was admitted to the same hospital in May 2023 after he suffered a brain haemorrhage. Joshi served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from the year 1995 to 1999 and was the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 2002 to 2004. He was also a Member of Rajya Sabha from 2006 to 2012, and Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises from 1999 to 2002. PM Modi condoles demise of Joshi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was pained by the veteran leader's demise. "Pained by the passing away of Manohar Joshi. He was a veteran leader who spent years in public service and held various responsibilities at the municipal, state and national levels. As Maharashtra CM, he worked tirelessly for the state's progress. He also made noteworthy contributions as a Union Minister," PM Modi said in a post on X. PM Modi further said that Joshi will be remembered for his diligence as a legislator. Pained by the passing away of Shri Manohar Joshi Ji. He was a veteran leader who spent years in public service and held various responsibilities at the municipal, state and national level. As Maharashtra CM, he worked tirelessly for the state’s progress. He also made noteworthy… pic.twitter.com/8SWCzUTEaj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 23, 2024 × "During his tenure as the Lok Sabha Speaker, he strove to make our Parliamentary processes more vibrant and participative. Manohar Joshi Ji will also be remembered for his diligence as a legislator, having had the honour of serving in all four legislatures. Condolences to his family and supporters," he wrote. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condoling Joshi's demise said that his contribution to society, politics and the field of education was immense. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray described Joshi as a trusted aide of Sena founder Bal Thackeray and someone who fought for the rights of the Marathi people. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Manohar Joshi passes away aged 86

McDonald's, the popular international fast food brand, has come under the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) scanner in India's Mumbai. The brand was allegedly pulling a 'cheesy deception' on its customers by using vegetable oil-based&nbsp;cheese substitutes instead of the real thing in its burgers, nuggets, etc.

<h2>FDA takes action</h2>

The regulator has suspended the licence of a McDonald's outlet in Ahmednagar. As per media reports, this has prompted the outlet to delete the word "cheese" from its item descriptions on the menu.

Furthermore, it has prompted McDonald's to undertake this corrective measure state-wide and even nationally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-court-raps-west-bengal-govt-over-naming-of-lions-as-akbar-sita-693026">Indian court raps West Bengal govt over naming lions 'Akbar, Sita'</a>

Accusing the popular food chain of misleading customers, the FDA said that McDonald's was using substitutes without properly disclosing them on their food labels or electronic display boards. This, it said, was a tactic to fool people into believing they were eating real cheese.

Reportedly, the action against the chain started in October when during an inspection of McDonald's branch in Admednagar's Kedgaon it was revealed that at least eight items contained cheese substitutes.

Following this, a show-cause notice was issued to the outlet, and later its licence was suspended.&nbsp;

<h2>Which items contained fake cheese?</h2>

The items with fake cheese have been identified as cheesy nuggets, McCheese veg burger, McCheese non-veg burger, corn and cheese burger, cheesy Italian veg and blueberry cheesecake.

As per a Times of India report, the McDonald's outlet in December informed the FDA that it had renamed the said products erasing the word 'cheese'.

Now the products' display names are veg nuggets instead of cheesy nuggets, cheddar delight veg burger instead of McCheese veg burger, blueberry cake instead of blueberry cheesecake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-man-creates-worlds-smallest-fully-functional-washing-machine-sets-record-693102">WATCH | Indian man creates world's smallest, fully functional washing machine, sets record</a>

In a statement issued on Friday, Westlife Foodworld Limited, the parent company of McDonald’s India said: "Amid recent reports about the removal of 'Cheese' from our menu at McDonald's locations in&nbsp;Maharashtra, we want to assure our valued customers that only genuine, high-quality cheese is used&nbsp;in all our cheese-containing products. Collaborating with suppliers adhering to global standards&nbsp;ensures top-quality cheese in our product offerings and not cheese analogues or any substitute."

"We are actively engaging with the competent authorities on this issue and awaiting their final&nbsp;clarification. We have always been adhering to stringent food standards and are fully compliant with&nbsp;all applicable food laws. Our commitment to transparency in our ingredients and dedication to&nbsp;providing delicious, high-quality meals to our customers remain unwavering," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

McDonald's, the popular international fast food brand, has come under the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) scanner in India's Mumbai. The brand was allegedly pulling a 'cheesy deception' on its customers by using vegetable oil-based cheese substitutes instead of the real thing in its burgers, nuggets, etc.

McDonald's, the popular international fast food brand, has come under the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) scanner in India's Mumbai. The brand was allegedly pulling a 'cheesy deception' on its customers by using vegetable oil-based cheese substitutes instead of the real thing in its burgers, nuggets, etc. FDA takes action The regulator has suspended the licence of a McDonald's outlet in Ahmednagar. As per media reports, this has prompted the outlet to delete the word "cheese" from its item descriptions on the menu. Furthermore, it has prompted McDonald's to undertake this corrective measure state-wide and even nationally. Also read | Indian court raps West Bengal govt over naming lions 'Akbar, Sita' Accusing the popular food chain of misleading customers, the FDA said that McDonald's was using substitutes without properly disclosing them on their food labels or electronic display boards. This, it said, was a tactic to fool people into believing they were eating real cheese. Reportedly, the action against the chain started in October when during an inspection of McDonald's branch in Admednagar's Kedgaon it was revealed that at least eight items contained cheese substitutes. Following this, a show-cause notice was issued to the outlet, and later its licence was suspended. Which items contained fake cheese? The items with fake cheese have been identified as cheesy nuggets, McCheese veg burger, McCheese non-veg burger, corn and cheese burger, cheesy Italian veg and blueberry cheesecake. As per a Times of India report, the McDonald's outlet in December informed the FDA that it had renamed the said products erasing the word 'cheese'. Now the products' display names are veg nuggets instead of cheesy nuggets, cheddar delight veg burger instead of McCheese veg burger, blueberry cake instead of blueberry cheesecake. Also read | WATCH | Indian man creates world's smallest, fully functional washing machine, sets record In a statement issued on Friday, Westlife Foodworld Limited, the parent company of McDonald’s India said: "Amid recent reports about the removal of 'Cheese' from our menu at McDonald's locations in Maharashtra, we want to assure our valued customers that only genuine, high-quality cheese is used in all our cheese-containing products. Collaborating with suppliers adhering to global standards ensures top-quality cheese in our product offerings and not cheese analogues or any substitute." "We are actively engaging with the competent authorities on this issue and awaiting their final clarification. We have always been adhering to stringent food standards and are fully compliant with all applicable food laws. Our commitment to transparency in our ingredients and dedication to providing delicious, high-quality meals to our customers remain unwavering," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

McDonald's comes under fire in Mumbai for 'misleading' customers with cheese substitutes

Investment banking firm, Jefferies, predicts that India is set to become the third-largest economy globally by 2027, overtaking both Japan and Germany. <o:p></o:p>

With India's GDP projected to reach $5 trillion in the next four years and nearly $10 trillion by 2030, the country's economic ascent is predicted to be strong.<o:p></o:p>

According to media reports, Jefferies highlighted India's economic growth trajectory, noting its transformation from the ninth-largest economy a decade ago to the fifth-largest today, with a nominal GDP of $3.4 trillion. <o:p></o:p>

Despite facing challenges from major reforms like the implementation of GST, bankruptcy laws, and demonetisation, India's GDP has continued to expand.<o:p></o:p>

A Hindustan Times report cited Chris Wood of Jefferies who highlighted the impact of fundamental structural reforms under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. <o:p></o:p>

According to him these reforms have significantly improved India's macroeconomic indicators, making the country increasingly attractive to foreign investors. <o:p></o:p>

Previously, India's lack of a compelling top-down narrative hindered foreign investment, but with recent reforms, the country's macro story is now on par with global standards.<o:p></o:p>

The investment banking company predicts India's GDP growth to outperform most large economies globally, with a projected growth rate of 6 per cent over the next five years. <o:p></o:p>

Apart from the structural reforms,&nbsp;rising growth rates&nbsp;are also driving India's ascent on the global economic stage.<o:p></o:p>

NDTV reported that Jefferies anticipates significant growth in Indian equity markets, with estimated returns of 8-10 per cent in dollar terms over the next five to seven years. <o:p></o:p>

Structural domestic flows and the potential listing of large unicorns are poised to drive the market cap past $10 trillion by 2030. <o:p></o:p>

The company also highlights the scope for increased foreign investment in India, given its relatively low country weight in global indices, presenting rewarding opportunities for equity investors.<o:p></o:p>

Investment banking firm, Jefferies, predicts that India is set to become the third-largest economy globally by 2027, overtaking both Japan and Germany. With India's GDP projected to reach $5 trillion in the next four years and nearly $10 trillion by 2030, the country's economic ascent is predicted to be strong.

Investment banking firm, Jefferies, predicts that India is set to become the third-largest economy globally by 2027, overtaking both Japan and Germany. With India's GDP projected to reach $5 trillion in the next four years and nearly $10 trillion by 2030, the country's economic ascent is predicted to be strong. According to media reports, Jefferies highlighted India's economic growth trajectory, noting its transformation from the ninth-largest economy a decade ago to the fifth-largest today, with a nominal GDP of $3.4 trillion. Despite facing challenges from major reforms like the implementation of GST, bankruptcy laws, and demonetisation, India's GDP has continued to expand. A Hindustan Times report cited Chris Wood of Jefferies who highlighted the impact of fundamental structural reforms under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. According to him these reforms have significantly improved India's macroeconomic indicators, making the country increasingly attractive to foreign investors. Previously, India's lack of a compelling top-down narrative hindered foreign investment, but with recent reforms, the country's macro story is now on par with global standards. The investment banking company predicts India's GDP growth to outperform most large economies globally, with a projected growth rate of 6 per cent over the next five years. Apart from the structural reforms, rising growth rates are also driving India's ascent on the global economic stage. NDTV reported that Jefferies anticipates significant growth in Indian equity markets, with estimated returns of 8-10 per cent in dollar terms over the next five to seven years. Structural domestic flows and the potential listing of large unicorns are poised to drive the market cap past $10 trillion by 2030. The company also highlights the scope for increased foreign investment in India, given its relatively low country weight in global indices, presenting rewarding opportunities for equity investors.

India poised to surpass Japan and Germany, become third-largest economy by 2027: Jefferies

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries. But in the modern sense, the foreign minister said, Greece wanted to be India's gateway into Europe. During the interaction on the sidelines of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke about many aspects of relations between the two countries and also the bearing India has on world affairs.

WION: How to do you see India-Greece relationship?

Gerapetritis: We are two nations with great history, we are nations that are based on principles, we share common things...We have upgraded our relations to a strategic one. There is a huge upside when it comes to economic and cultural ties with India. India is the fifth largest economy... We expect for significant upgrade in bilateral ties. We have more than 100 businesspeople in India and they have the opportunity to interact with Indian entrepreneurs in various sectors. There is an excellent opportunity for nations to develop.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
WION: If you can comment on India-Middle East-Europe corridor?&nbsp;

Gerapetritis: We need to work closely...we consider that the IMEEC is not only an economic corridor but also a corridor of peace and culture. People-to-people relationship is the main important thing. This corridor takes us back to history. The corridor facilitates interconnection between India, the Arabic states and Europe in every aspect. Greece possesses very strong ports. This could save more than seven days of the trip. We have strong data transfer facilities. We have become an energy hub, a pioneer state when it comes to green transition. We’re concerned about with climate crisis. We have taken significant steps. We are in the process of developing connectivity with Egypt and central and northern Europe. The IMEEC connection will be a strong tie of friendship and peace.&nbsp;

Watch | Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis speaks to WION on India-Greece relationship

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WION: Do you think the IMEEC project is being impacted by the ongoing Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine conflicts? Will it lead to delay in the project?&nbsp;

Gerapetritis: The situation is appalling. We need to take significant steps to stop it and allow humanitarian aid. When it comes to connectivity projects, there could be some delays...this is a visionary project. We will lay down the next steps for the IMEEC project but will be taking other economic and cultural steps as well. The two governments are going to have a very close relationship. We have MoUs and agreements to follow up on. And we have established a multi-layer approach.

Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe. It is very significant. We made some progress in discussions concerning the use of Greek ports. India is already present in Greece with some significant projects. We consider these pioneers of huge investment opportunities for India.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India when it comes to multilateralism?&nbsp;

Gerapetritis: Democratic values should be embedded in all international arenas. India is leading in this aspect. India connects the south, north, west and east and could be a focal point when it comes to international discussions. India presents a model of economy which is an important one. India has an active role.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries. But in the modern sense, the foreign minister said, Greece wanted to be India's gateway into Europe. During the interaction on the sidelines of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke about many aspects of relations between the two countries and also the bearing India has on world affairs. WION: How to do you see India-Greece relationship? Gerapetritis: We are two nations with great history, we are nations that are based on principles, we share common things...We have upgraded our relations to a strategic one. There is a huge upside when it comes to economic and cultural ties with India. India is the fifth largest economy... We expect for significant upgrade in bilateral ties. We have more than 100 businesspeople in India and they have the opportunity to interact with Indian entrepreneurs in various sectors. There is an excellent opportunity for nations to develop. WION: If you can comment on India-Middle East-Europe corridor? Gerapetritis: We need to work closely...we consider that the IMEEC is not only an economic corridor but also a corridor of peace and culture. People-to-people relationship is the main important thing. This corridor takes us back to history. The corridor facilitates interconnection between India, the Arabic states and Europe in every aspect. Greece possesses very strong ports. This could save more than seven days of the trip. We have strong data transfer facilities. We have become an energy hub, a pioneer state when it comes to green transition. We’re concerned about with climate crisis. We have taken significant steps. We are in the process of developing connectivity with Egypt and central and northern Europe. The IMEEC connection will be a strong tie of friendship and peace. Watch | Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis speaks to WION on India-Greece relationship × WION: Do you think the IMEEC project is being impacted by the ongoing Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine conflicts? Will it lead to delay in the project? Gerapetritis: The situation is appalling. We need to take significant steps to stop it and allow humanitarian aid. When it comes to connectivity projects, there could be some delays...this is a visionary project. We will lay down the next steps for the IMEEC project but will be taking other economic and cultural steps as well. The two governments are going to have a very close relationship. We have MoUs and agreements to follow up on. And we have established a multi-layer approach. Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe. It is very significant. We made some progress in discussions concerning the use of Greek ports. India is already present in Greece with some significant projects. We consider these pioneers of huge investment opportunities for India. WION: How do you see India when it comes to multilateralism? Gerapetritis: Democratic values should be embedded in all international arenas. India is leading in this aspect. India connects the south, north, west and east and could be a focal point when it comes to international discussions. India presents a model of economy which is an important one. India has an active role.

Exclusive: Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe, minister tells WION

The government in the Indian state of West Bengal was instructed by the Calcutta High Court to rename the lions&nbsp;who have been named "Akbar" and "Sita” after the names caused a controversy. Both the lions were kept in the same enclosure at the Bengal Safari Park in Siliguri. 
 
A petition was filed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad in the court for changing the name of the lioness after she was recently shifted to West Bengal from Tripura, as per a report published in Live Law. 
 
The single-judge bench of Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya, giving an oral direction, asked the state to think about renaming the animals and avoid controversy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/court-will-decide-who-is-butter-chickens-daddy-but-india-is-surely-the-guru-of-its-globalisation-692776">Court will decide who is Butter Chicken’s daddy, but India is surely the guru of its globalisation</a>

"Will you name a lion after a Hindu deity, a Muslim prophet or Christian god or freedom fighter or nobel laureate? Generally anyone who is revered or respected by the people of our country?" Justice Bhattacharyya quipped.

<h2 lang="en-US">West Bengal considering renaming lions: AAG</h2>

The Additional Advocate General (AAG), who was representing the case from the West Bengal government's side, said that the lions were given the names in Tripura and the state has already been considering renaming the lions. 
 
The High Court further questioned the reason behind the naming of the lion after "a god, mythological hero, freedom fighter, or Nobel laureate" and questioned why the state did not use&nbsp;the names which were given by Tripura. 
 
"You are a welfare state and it is a secular state. Why should you draw controversy by naming a lion after Sita and Akbar? This controversy should have been avoided. Not only Sita, but I also don't support the naming of a lion Akbar. He was a very efficient and noble Mughal emperor. Very successful and secular Mughal emperor. If it is already named, the state authority should shun it and avoid it," Justice Bhattacharyya said.

Watch:&nbsp;India's Gaganyaan mission: ISRO completes human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine

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In the court hearing, Justice Bhattacharyya further questioned if the AAG had any pets who were named after "national heroes". 
 
As per the court's direction, the petition filed by Vishwa Hindu Parishad will be reclassified as a public interest litigation (PIL) and redirected to a regular bench which can hear PILs.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government in the Indian state of West Bengal was instructed by the Calcutta High Court to rename the lions who have been named "Akbar" and "Sita” after the names caused a controversy.

The government in the Indian state of West Bengal was instructed by the Calcutta High Court to rename the lions who have been named "Akbar" and "Sita” after the names caused a controversy. Both the lions were kept in the same enclosure at the Bengal Safari Park in Siliguri. A petition was filed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad in the court for changing the name of the lioness after she was recently shifted to West Bengal from Tripura, as per a report published in Live Law. The single-judge bench of Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya, giving an oral direction, asked the state to think about renaming the animals and avoid controversy. Also Read: Court will decide who is Butter Chicken’s daddy, but India is surely the guru of its globalisation "Will you name a lion after a Hindu deity, a Muslim prophet or Christian god or freedom fighter or nobel laureate? Generally anyone who is revered or respected by the people of our country?" Justice Bhattacharyya quipped. West Bengal considering renaming lions: AAG The Additional Advocate General (AAG), who was representing the case from the West Bengal government's side, said that the lions were given the names in Tripura and the state has already been considering renaming the lions. The High Court further questioned the reason behind the naming of the lion after "a god, mythological hero, freedom fighter, or Nobel laureate" and questioned why the state did not use the names which were given by Tripura. "You are a welfare state and it is a secular state. Why should you draw controversy by naming a lion after Sita and Akbar? This controversy should have been avoided. Not only Sita, but I also don't support the naming of a lion Akbar. He was a very efficient and noble Mughal emperor. Very successful and secular Mughal emperor. If it is already named, the state authority should shun it and avoid it," Justice Bhattacharyya said. Watch: India's Gaganyaan mission: ISRO completes human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine In the court hearing, Justice Bhattacharyya further questioned if the AAG had any pets who were named after "national heroes". As per the court's direction, the petition filed by Vishwa Hindu Parishad will be reclassified as a public interest litigation (PIL) and redirected to a regular bench which can hear PILs. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian court raps West Bengal govt over naming lions 'Akbar, Sita'

India’s Reserve Bank (RBI) has ramped up scrutiny of fintech companies, signalling an end to lenient regulation of this pivotal industry. <o:p></o:p>

Following regular inspections in the past year, it was revealed that several fintech firms exhibited leniency in areas such as customer due diligence, prompting the RBI to take decisive action. <o:p></o:p>

The central bank has adopted measures, including hiring analysts to assess customer data and conducting frequent meetings with industry executives.<o:p></o:p>

Last month, the RBI set a precedent for its stricter stance by instructing sector giant Paytm to wind down its banking unit, citing persistent non-compliance with regulations. <o:p></o:p>

This move created a ripple of concern within the sector. <o:p></o:p>

Subsequently, this month, Visa received a separate order from the RBI to cease business-to-business card payments through third-party fintech firms. <o:p></o:p>

In particular, the RBI has expressed unease about the digital customer identification process employed by fintech firms. <o:p></o:p>

This process, reliant on a government identity proof called Aadhaar and a linked mobile number, is faster and cheaper but susceptible to manipulation, raising concerns about fraud and money laundering. <o:p></o:p>

While not prohibiting this method, the RBI has mandated that digitally verified accounts be tagged as 'high risk' until physical or video-call-based identification is completed, in adherence to its regulations on customer due diligence.<o:p></o:p>

As part of its heightened oversight, RBI officials are conducting frequent onsite inspections, randomly selecting samples from fintech firms' user bases to verify authenticity. <o:p></o:p>

The frequency of these meetings has increased from once a quarter to once a month, reflecting the central bank's commitment to more proactive regulation. <o:p></o:p>

Simultaneously, the RBI is investing in advanced technology to detect regulatory violations and hiring analysts to scrutinise vast amounts of customer data held by fintech firms.<o:p></o:p>

While this intensified scrutiny is expected to drive up compliance costs and capital requirements, potentially triggering sector consolidation, industry experts believe it will encourage compliance and deeper diligence. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Ashish Fafadia, Partner at Blume Ventures, who noted that the increased scrutiny will compel support for companies that adhere to regulations, fostering a more compliant fintech landscape.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

India’s Reserve Bank (RBI) has ramped up scrutiny of fintech companies, signalling an end to lenient regulation of this pivotal industry. Following regular inspections in the past year, it was revealed that several fintech firms exhibited leniency in areas such as customer due diligence, prompting the RBI to take decisive action.

India’s Reserve Bank (RBI) has ramped up scrutiny of fintech companies, signalling an end to lenient regulation of this pivotal industry. Following regular inspections in the past year, it was revealed that several fintech firms exhibited leniency in areas such as customer due diligence, prompting the RBI to take decisive action. The central bank has adopted measures, including hiring analysts to assess customer data and conducting frequent meetings with industry executives. Last month, the RBI set a precedent for its stricter stance by instructing sector giant Paytm to wind down its banking unit, citing persistent non-compliance with regulations. This move created a ripple of concern within the sector. Subsequently, this month, Visa received a separate order from the RBI to cease business-to-business card payments through third-party fintech firms. In particular, the RBI has expressed unease about the digital customer identification process employed by fintech firms. This process, reliant on a government identity proof called Aadhaar and a linked mobile number, is faster and cheaper but susceptible to manipulation, raising concerns about fraud and money laundering. While not prohibiting this method, the RBI has mandated that digitally verified accounts be tagged as 'high risk' until physical or video-call-based identification is completed, in adherence to its regulations on customer due diligence. As part of its heightened oversight, RBI officials are conducting frequent onsite inspections, randomly selecting samples from fintech firms' user bases to verify authenticity. The frequency of these meetings has increased from once a quarter to once a month, reflecting the central bank's commitment to more proactive regulation. Simultaneously, the RBI is investing in advanced technology to detect regulatory violations and hiring analysts to scrutinise vast amounts of customer data held by fintech firms. While this intensified scrutiny is expected to drive up compliance costs and capital requirements, potentially triggering sector consolidation, industry experts believe it will encourage compliance and deeper diligence. Reuters cited Ashish Fafadia, Partner at Blume Ventures, who noted that the increased scrutiny will compel support for companies that adhere to regulations, fostering a more compliant fintech landscape. (With inputs from Reuters)

India’s central bank intensifies oversight of fintech sector through rigorous inspections

Five men from the southern Indian state of Telangana returned to their families after being incarcerated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for 18 years. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), a political party in Telangana, has claimed that it was due to efforts from its leader KT Rama Rao (KTR). All five men are residents of Ranjanna Sirisilla District in the state.

<h2>What were the charges against these men?</h2>

The men, who were working in Dubai, were accused of killing a Nepali national. Following a court trial there, they were sentenced to 25 years in jail in the year 2005.

<h2>How was their release secured?</h2>

As per the claim made by BRS, party leader KTR travelled to Nepal to meet family members of the deceased, Bahadur Singh. He worked as a watchman in Dubai.&nbsp;

Gravitas | Meow meow drug worth over Rs. 2500 crores busted in Delhi, Pune

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As per the prevalent laws, it was possible to secure the men's release if family members of the deceased agreed to forgive the accused. BRS claimed that KTR convinced Singh's family to do so.

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वीडियो स्टोरी | 18 साल बाद दुबई की जेल से रिहा हुए दो भाई हैदराबाद पहुँचे 
 
देखें | <a href="https://t.co/4CJNAcaLCW">https://t.co/4CJNAcaLCW</a> 
 
Subscribe to PTI's YouTube channel for in-depth reports, exclusive interviews, and special visual stories that take you beyond the headlines. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PTIVideos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PTIVideos</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1760300049089822837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The family members signed amnesty and with the help of lawyers, a petition was made to the courts to release the men. After the initial plea was denied, another one was made in September 2023. Eventually, the petition paved the way for the men's release.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-83-year-old-woman-killed-another-injured-after-massive-fire-erupts-in-delhi-building-692473">India: 83-year-old woman killed, another injured after massive fire erupts in Delhi building</a>

The names of the five men are Shivarathri Mallesh, Shivarathri Ravi, Gollem Nampally, Dundugula Laxman, and Shivarathri Hanmanthu.

The BRS claimed that after Bahadur Singh's family facilitated the return of the accused, KTR offered a cheque of INR 15 lakh (approx&nbsp;USD 19,000) to the family&nbsp;as some form of compensation for the loss they had suffered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Five men from the southern Indian state of Telangana returned to their families after being incarcerated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for 18 years. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), a political party in Telangana, has claimed that it was due to efforts from its leader KT Rama Rao (KTR).

Five men from the southern Indian state of Telangana returned to their families after being incarcerated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for 18 years. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), a political party in Telangana, has claimed that it was due to efforts from its leader KT Rama Rao (KTR). All five men are residents of Ranjanna Sirisilla District in the state. What were the charges against these men? The men, who were working in Dubai, were accused of killing a Nepali national. Following a court trial there, they were sentenced to 25 years in jail in the year 2005. How was their release secured? As per the claim made by BRS, party leader KTR travelled to Nepal to meet family members of the deceased, Bahadur Singh. He worked as a watchman in Dubai. Gravitas | Meow meow drug worth over Rs. 2500 crores busted in Delhi, Pune × As per the prevalent laws, it was possible to secure the men's release if family members of the deceased agreed to forgive the accused. BRS claimed that KTR convinced Singh's family to do so. वीडियो स्टोरी | 18 साल बाद दुबई की जेल से रिहा हुए दो भाई हैदराबाद पहुँचे देखें | https://t.co/4CJNAcaLCW Subscribe to PTI's YouTube channel for in-depth reports, exclusive interviews, and special visual stories that take you beyond the headlines. #PTIVideos — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 × The family members signed amnesty and with the help of lawyers, a petition was made to the courts to release the men. After the initial plea was denied, another one was made in September 2023. Eventually, the petition paved the way for the men's release. Also Read | India: 83-year-old woman killed, another injured after massive fire erupts in Delhi building The names of the five men are Shivarathri Mallesh, Shivarathri Ravi, Gollem Nampally, Dundugula Laxman, and Shivarathri Hanmanthu. The BRS claimed that after Bahadur Singh's family facilitated the return of the accused, KTR offered a cheque of INR 15 lakh (approx USD 19,000) to the family as some form of compensation for the loss they had suffered. (With inputs from agencies)

Five Indian men return to country after spending 18 years in Dubai jail

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21).&nbsp;

The victims were identified as Jasuri Devi, 83, and 30-year-old Pooja Pant who sustained injuries. The incident took place in the Pacific Apartment in southwest Delhi’s Dwarka around Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Fire broke out on a floor of a residential apartment in Sector 10 Dwarka earlier today. The fire has now been doused with the help of four fire tenders. <a href="https://t.co/hUpeRajOcy">pic.twitter.com/hUpeRajOcy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760216490026897872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

The police said that they rushed to the site after a call about the fire. “The matter was informed to the fire officials for the rescue work,” a senior Delhi police officer told PTI.&nbsp;

An official from the Delhi Fire Services said that they received the call about the fire&nbsp;in two different flats&nbsp;at around 12:30 pm (local time). According to reports, the fire erupted on the third floor of the residential building.&nbsp;

The blaze was eventually doused with the help of six fire tenders around 1:05 pm (local time), reported PTI citing officials. According to the reports, the two women were on the balcony and jumped and one of them was rescued by firefighters.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-armys-trishakti-corps-rescue-500-tourists-stuck-in-heavy-snowfall-at-gangtok-692460">Indian Army's Trishakti Corps rescue 500 tourists stuck in heavy snowfall at Gangtok</a>

Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi Fire Services said that the two women had taken shelter on the balcony of the flat where the fire had broken out. The cause of the fire is said to be a gas leak.&nbsp;

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said the officers first cordoned off the area and contacted Devi’s son, Mahesh Pant, who immediately reached the site.

“We collected details about his house to know that if any other person was still inside the house. We have started further investigation into the matter,” said Singh, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;

He added, “Pooja and Jasuri Devi jumped from fourth floor which is around 40 feet above from the ground.”

<h2>About the victims</h2>

Both victims were rushed to the hospital. The 83-year-old was declared brought dead, after suffering serious head injuries. Meanwhile, Pant is said to have sustained multiple injuries and is in critical condition. She is reportedly undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-to-enforce-ban-on-hookah-bars-cigarette-sales-to-individuals-under-21-692371">Karnataka bans hookah bars, cigarette sales to individuals under 21 in state</a>

“Around 12 pm, I heard the sound of ambulance and fire brigade engines. I rushed to the location,” a neighbour told PTI. “There was a massive fire in a building and teams from the police and fire brigade were trying to rescue two people.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21).

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21). The victims were identified as Jasuri Devi, 83, and 30-year-old Pooja Pant who sustained injuries. The incident took place in the Pacific Apartment in southwest Delhi’s Dwarka around Wednesday afternoon. #WATCH | Delhi | Fire broke out on a floor of a residential apartment in Sector 10 Dwarka earlier today. The fire has now been doused with the help of four fire tenders. pic.twitter.com/hUpeRajOcy — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 × What we know about the incident The police said that they rushed to the site after a call about the fire. “The matter was informed to the fire officials for the rescue work,” a senior Delhi police officer told PTI. An official from the Delhi Fire Services said that they received the call about the fire in two different flats at around 12:30 pm (local time). According to reports, the fire erupted on the third floor of the residential building. The blaze was eventually doused with the help of six fire tenders around 1:05 pm (local time), reported PTI citing officials. According to the reports, the two women were on the balcony and jumped and one of them was rescued by firefighters. Also Read | Indian Army's Trishakti Corps rescue 500 tourists stuck in heavy snowfall at Gangtok Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi Fire Services said that the two women had taken shelter on the balcony of the flat where the fire had broken out. The cause of the fire is said to be a gas leak. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said the officers first cordoned off the area and contacted Devi’s son, Mahesh Pant, who immediately reached the site. “We collected details about his house to know that if any other person was still inside the house. We have started further investigation into the matter,” said Singh, as quoted by PTI. He added, “Pooja and Jasuri Devi jumped from fourth floor which is around 40 feet above from the ground.” About the victims Both victims were rushed to the hospital. The 83-year-old was declared brought dead, after suffering serious head injuries. Meanwhile, Pant is said to have sustained multiple injuries and is in critical condition. She is reportedly undergoing treatment. Also Read | Karnataka bans hookah bars, cigarette sales to individuals under 21 in state “Around 12 pm, I heard the sound of ambulance and fire brigade engines. I rushed to the location,” a neighbour told PTI. “There was a massive fire in a building and teams from the police and fire brigade were trying to rescue two people.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: 83-year-old woman killed, another injured after massive fire erupts in Delhi building

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No foreign interference’</h2>

Two 16-year-olds have been charged in connection with the shooting, said the Surrey detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in a statement.&nbsp;

Multiple shots had been fired at the residence of an associate of the pro-Khalistan figure Nijjar who was killed in Canada’s Surrey, British Columbia, last year.

Since then Khalistani separatist groups in Canada, including Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) had alleged the involvement of the Indian government in the shooting which took place at Simranjeet Singh’s residence on February 1.&nbsp;

Officers responded to a report of shots fired at a residence in the 2800-block of 154 Street, on February 1 at around 1:21 am (local time), said the RCMP.&nbsp;

“At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter,” it added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-trident-nuclear-missile-test-fails-for-the-second-time-in-row-692195">Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row</a>

The RCMP in Canada’s Surrey also said that they have arrested and charged two 16-year-olds in connection with the shooting.&nbsp;

“On February 12, 2024, two 16-year-old males were arrested and the BC Prosecution Service approved charges of Discharging a Firearm into a place and Possessing a Loaded Prohibited Firearm,” said the Canadian police.&nbsp;

<h2>Allegations against&nbsp;Indian government</h2>

The shots were fired at Simranjeet Singh’s home, earlier this month, who is reportedly a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and helped organise a pro-Khalistani protest outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council and prominent figure of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, Moninder Singh told CBC News how Simranjeet believes the Indian government is involved in the incident.&nbsp;

Simranjeet Singh “feels like this is the Indian state, or their actors, that are playing their part here to kind of scare them off from…the activism work that he’s doing,” Moninder told CBC News.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-gives-green-light-to-its-13th-sanctions-package-targeting-russia-692352">European Union gives green light to its 13th sanctions package targeting Russia</a>

The statement came after the Surrey RCMP, on the day of the shooting, had said that the “investigators believe this was an isolated incident”.&nbsp;

<h2>India and Canada relations&nbsp;</h2>

Diplomatic relations between India and Canada have been strained since September last year after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his government was investigating a potential link between agents of the Indian government in the killing of Nijjar – a designated terrorist in India.&nbsp;

New Delhi has since denied these allegations calling them “absurd” and “motivated”. The Khalistani separatist leader was killed outside a gurdwara in Surrey city on June 18, 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”.

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”. ‘No foreign interference’ Two 16-year-olds have been charged in connection with the shooting, said the Surrey detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in a statement. Multiple shots had been fired at the residence of an associate of the pro-Khalistan figure Nijjar who was killed in Canada’s Surrey, British Columbia, last year. Since then Khalistani separatist groups in Canada, including Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) had alleged the involvement of the Indian government in the shooting which took place at Simranjeet Singh’s residence on February 1. Officers responded to a report of shots fired at a residence in the 2800-block of 154 Street, on February 1 at around 1:21 am (local time), said the RCMP. “At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter,” it added. Also Read | Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row The RCMP in Canada’s Surrey also said that they have arrested and charged two 16-year-olds in connection with the shooting. “On February 12, 2024, two 16-year-old males were arrested and the BC Prosecution Service approved charges of Discharging a Firearm into a place and Possessing a Loaded Prohibited Firearm,” said the Canadian police. Allegations against Indian government The shots were fired at Simranjeet Singh’s home, earlier this month, who is reportedly a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and helped organise a pro-Khalistani protest outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26. A spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council and prominent figure of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, Moninder Singh told CBC News how Simranjeet believes the Indian government is involved in the incident. Simranjeet Singh “feels like this is the Indian state, or their actors, that are playing their part here to kind of scare them off from…the activism work that he’s doing,” Moninder told CBC News. Also Read | European Union gives green light to its 13th sanctions package targeting Russia The statement came after the Surrey RCMP, on the day of the shooting, had said that the “investigators believe this was an isolated incident”. India and Canada relations Diplomatic relations between India and Canada have been strained since September last year after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his government was investigating a potential link between agents of the Indian government in the killing of Nijjar – a designated terrorist in India. New Delhi has since denied these allegations calling them “absurd” and “motivated”. The Khalistani separatist leader was killed outside a gurdwara in Surrey city on June 18, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian police found no ‘foreign interference’ behind attack on home of Nijjar’s associate

Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time. China’s C919 airliner, a potential rival to Western-made Boeing and Airbus planes, also staged a fly-by at the Singapore Airshow on its first trip outside Chinese territory.&nbsp;

<h2>About the aviation gathering in Singapore</h2>

The biennial commercial and defence-focussed Singapore Airshow witnessed the participation of company executives and high-ranking government officials of more than 1,000 companies from over 50 countries.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Army to convert Uttar Bharat (UB) area into full-fledged Operational Corps

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The event was led by Western aviation giants, Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin and Chinese competitors such as state-owned entities Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).&nbsp;

Countries like Singapore, Australia, India, Indonesia, South Korea and the United States, showcased their military aircraft. The air show also saw the participation of China’s COMAC C919 single-aisle commercial jet and an Airbus A350-1000 powered by 35 per cent aviation fuel.

<h2>HAL’s Dhruv to lead India’s charge in Singapore</h2>

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)&nbsp;manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv operated by the IAF’s Sarang team was a part of the Singapore Airshow for the first time.&nbsp;

“The display is designed to highlight the ALH Dhruv’s agility and manoeuvrability, as well as the high degree of skills of the IAF pilots flying these machines,” said India’s ministry of defence in a statement.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-c919-airliner-makes-historic-international-debut-at-singapore-airshow-691593">China's C919 airliner makes historic international debut at Singapore Airshow</a>

The indigenously manufactured ALH and its variants have successfully been inducted and are currently being operated by all the military services of India as a part of the Indian government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat’ initiative.&nbsp;

<h2>China’s first homegrown airliner</h2>

China’s C919 airliner made its international debut, on Sunday (Feb 18) by staging a flyby at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft, manufactured by the state-owned COMAC took to the skies last May and is seen as a prominent symbol of Beijing’s “Made in China” plan aimed at reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers.

COMAC also posted its first aircraft orders, on Tuesday morning, with China’s Tibet Airlines finalising an order for 40 C919 single-aisle planes and 10 ARJ21 regional jets. Additionally, China’s Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group ordered 6 ARJ21s.

<h2>Russia out, Israel in</h2>

Russian companies such as Russian Helicopters and Irkut which had attended past airshows were not participating this year amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-drones-may-deliver-medicines-if-caa-proposal-goes-through-692006">UK: Drones may deliver medicines if CAA proposal goes through</a>

On the other hand, Israeli companies Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems which had opted out of the Dubai Airshow in November amid the war between Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, attended the event in Singapore.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Real return to normal’</h2>

“We see 2024 as a real return to normal,” said Steven Townend, the CEO of Singapore-based aircraft lessor BOC Aviation. He added, “The industry is growing, airlines are making money again on a global basis. For 2024, we’re really positive.”

Notably, the airshow was the first one in six years unaffected by COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions as the industry continued to grapple with a rebound in post-pandemic travel demand amid persistent supply chain issues.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time.

Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time. China’s C919 airliner, a potential rival to Western-made Boeing and Airbus planes, also staged a fly-by at the Singapore Airshow on its first trip outside Chinese territory. About the aviation gathering in Singapore The biennial commercial and defence-focussed Singapore Airshow witnessed the participation of company executives and high-ranking government officials of more than 1,000 companies from over 50 countries. WATCH | Indian Army to convert Uttar Bharat (UB) area into full-fledged Operational Corps The event was led by Western aviation giants, Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin and Chinese competitors such as state-owned entities Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). Countries like Singapore, Australia, India, Indonesia, South Korea and the United States, showcased their military aircraft. The air show also saw the participation of China’s COMAC C919 single-aisle commercial jet and an Airbus A350-1000 powered by 35 per cent aviation fuel. HAL’s Dhruv to lead India’s charge in Singapore The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv operated by the IAF’s Sarang team was a part of the Singapore Airshow for the first time. “The display is designed to highlight the ALH Dhruv’s agility and manoeuvrability, as well as the high degree of skills of the IAF pilots flying these machines,” said India’s ministry of defence in a statement. Also Read | China's C919 airliner makes historic international debut at Singapore Airshow The indigenously manufactured ALH and its variants have successfully been inducted and are currently being operated by all the military services of India as a part of the Indian government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat’ initiative. China’s first homegrown airliner China’s C919 airliner made its international debut, on Sunday (Feb 18) by staging a flyby at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft, manufactured by the state-owned COMAC took to the skies last May and is seen as a prominent symbol of Beijing’s “Made in China” plan aimed at reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers. COMAC also posted its first aircraft orders, on Tuesday morning, with China’s Tibet Airlines finalising an order for 40 C919 single-aisle planes and 10 ARJ21 regional jets. Additionally, China’s Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group ordered 6 ARJ21s. Russia out, Israel in Russian companies such as Russian Helicopters and Irkut which had attended past airshows were not participating this year amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Also Read | UK: Drones may deliver medicines if CAA proposal goes through On the other hand, Israeli companies Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems which had opted out of the Dubai Airshow in November amid the war between Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, attended the event in Singapore. ‘Real return to normal’ “We see 2024 as a real return to normal,” said Steven Townend, the CEO of Singapore-based aircraft lessor BOC Aviation. He added, “The industry is growing, airlines are making money again on a global basis. For 2024, we’re really positive.” Notably, the airshow was the first one in six years unaffected by COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions as the industry continued to grapple with a rebound in post-pandemic travel demand amid persistent supply chain issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore Airshow: India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv participates in Asia’s biggest aviation event

Ahead of the planned march to the capital city of Delhi on Wednesday (Feb 21) by the protesting farmers, the traffic police has issued an advisory for commuters. The Delhi Police has requested commuters to avoid several roads in the central parts of the capital due to special traffic arrangements.&nbsp;

The agitating farmers have been gearing up to enter Delhi from two points on the&nbsp;Punjab-Haryana border as fourth rounds of talks with the central government yielded no results.&nbsp;

"On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards &nbsp;A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 0930 hrs to 1130 hrs," the advisory said.

According to reports the Uttar Pradesh Gate border point is expected to be the most vulnerable to traffic chaos. The stretch had witnessed 7-8 km tailbacks during the previous round of farmers' protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-protest-agitating-farmers-say-govt-proposal-not-in-their-best-interest-692048">Watch |&nbsp;Farmers Protest: Agitating farmers say govt proposal 'not in their best interest'</a>

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<h2>Farmers vs government showdown</h2>

As many as 14,000 protesters have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars and 10-mini buses. As a precautionary measure, the Haryana government has extended its ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa.&nbsp;

At the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana, as well as other checkpoints, several administrative measures, including&nbsp;concrete barriers, barbed wires, and large shipping containers have been put up to stop the farmers.&nbsp;

Police have affixed cemented nail strips on the highway to impede the movement of tractors and other vehicles used by the farmers. In response, the protesting farmers have improvised a makeshift "tank" to counteract these measures and continue their 'Dilli Chalo' march.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-to-use-makeshift-tanks-and-iron-sheets-to-cross-haryana-border-692124">Also read |&nbsp;India: Farmers plan to use makeshift ‘tanks’ and iron sheets to cross Haryana border</a>

Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has urged the prime minister to come and meet the protesters to chalk out an agreement regarding the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

"We have told the govt that you can kill us but please don't oppress the farmers. We request the prime minister to come forward and put an end to this protest by announcing a law on the MSP guarantee for the farmers," said Pandher.&nbsp;

The protesting farmers have rejected the government's proposition for a five-year contract to purchase maize, cotton, and three types of pulses at the existing minimum support price.

(Update)

As of the latest&nbsp;update, several rounds of tear gas canisters had been fired on the border by the police to disperse the farmers. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda invited the protesting farmers for a fifth round of talks on all issues including the MSP.

"We are ready to discuss all the issues, be it MSP or crop diversification. We can find a solution only through dialogue. I have invited them for the discussion and appealed to them to maintain peace and find a solution that is good for everyone," Munda told reporters&nbsp;

The minister urged the farmers to come to an amicable conclusion peacefully.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the planned march to the capital city of Delhi on Wednesday (Feb 21) by the protesting farmers, the traffic police has issued an advisory for commuters.

Ahead of the planned march to the capital city of Delhi on Wednesday (Feb 21) by the protesting farmers, the traffic police has issued an advisory for commuters. The Delhi Police has requested commuters to avoid several roads in the central parts of the capital due to special traffic arrangements. The agitating farmers have been gearing up to enter Delhi from two points on the Punjab-Haryana border as fourth rounds of talks with the central government yielded no results. "On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 0930 hrs to 1130 hrs," the advisory said. According to reports the Uttar Pradesh Gate border point is expected to be the most vulnerable to traffic chaos. The stretch had witnessed 7-8 km tailbacks during the previous round of farmers' protests. Watch | Farmers Protest: Agitating farmers say govt proposal 'not in their best interest' × Farmers vs government showdown As many as 14,000 protesters have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars and 10-mini buses. As a precautionary measure, the Haryana government has extended its ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa. At the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana, as well as other checkpoints, several administrative measures, including concrete barriers, barbed wires, and large shipping containers have been put up to stop the farmers. Police have affixed cemented nail strips on the highway to impede the movement of tractors and other vehicles used by the farmers. In response, the protesting farmers have improvised a makeshift "tank" to counteract these measures and continue their 'Dilli Chalo' march. Also read | India: Farmers plan to use makeshift ‘tanks’ and iron sheets to cross Haryana border Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has urged the prime minister to come and meet the protesters to chalk out an agreement regarding the Minimum Support Price (MSP). "We have told the govt that you can kill us but please don't oppress the farmers. We request the prime minister to come forward and put an end to this protest by announcing a law on the MSP guarantee for the farmers," said Pandher. The protesting farmers have rejected the government's proposition for a five-year contract to purchase maize, cotton, and three types of pulses at the existing minimum support price. (Update) As of the latest update, several rounds of tear gas canisters had been fired on the border by the police to disperse the farmers. Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda invited the protesting farmers for a fifth round of talks on all issues including the MSP. "We are ready to discuss all the issues, be it MSP or crop diversification. We can find a solution only through dialogue. I have invited them for the discussion and appealed to them to maintain peace and find a solution that is good for everyone," Munda told reporters The minister urged the farmers to come to an amicable conclusion peacefully. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: Indian police fire tear gas at farmers marching towards Delhi

With discontent persisting among India's farming community, farmers' unions have rejected the Indian government's proposal for five-year contracts guaranteeing minimum support prices (MSPs). <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, the rejection, voiced by one of the leaders in a video circulated on social media, highlights the persistent standoff between the farmers and the government, despite recent attempts at negotiation and resolution. <o:p></o:p>

Trade Minister Piyush Goyal disclosed the government's offer of assured support prices for pulses, corn, and cotton, aiming to resolve the ongoing deadlock with protesting farmers. <o:p></o:p>

Goyal's announcement came after prolonged talks following confrontations between security forces and demonstrators, highlighting the significance of addressing the farmers' demands, particularly ahead of the looming general election.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the government's effort to break the standoff, farmers remain adamant in their demands for higher prices supported by legislation across nearly two dozen crops. <o:p></o:p>

Goyal's proposal included the provision of five-year contracts for MSPs to farmers diversifying their crops, including cotton, pigeon peas, black matpe, red lentils, and corn. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent figure among the farmers' unions, who confirmed the rejection of the government's offer, citing the failure to reach consensus among the unions. <o:p></o:p>

Analysts opine that the government's response falls short of addressing the core demands of farmers, notably the legal guarantee for MSPs, raising concerns about the sincerity of its efforts.<o:p></o:p>

Some analysts have criticised the government's approach, suggesting that it has overlooked the fundamental demands of farmers.<o:p></o:p>

Moreover, experts argue that diversifying crops, particularly towards pulses, could alleviate pressures on water resources and reduce reliance on imports, thereby offering long-term benefits.<o:p></o:p>

The ongoing standoff has witnessed confrontations between farmers and law enforcement authorities, with tear gas and barricades employed to thwart the farmers' march towards New Delhi. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

With discontent persisting among India's farming community, farmers' unions have rejected the Indian government's proposal for five-year contracts guaranteeing minimum support prices (MSPs).

With discontent persisting among India's farming community, farmers' unions have rejected the Indian government's proposal for five-year contracts guaranteeing minimum support prices (MSPs). According to Reuters, the rejection, voiced by one of the leaders in a video circulated on social media, highlights the persistent standoff between the farmers and the government, despite recent attempts at negotiation and resolution. Trade Minister Piyush Goyal disclosed the government's offer of assured support prices for pulses, corn, and cotton, aiming to resolve the ongoing deadlock with protesting farmers. Goyal's announcement came after prolonged talks following confrontations between security forces and demonstrators, highlighting the significance of addressing the farmers' demands, particularly ahead of the looming general election. Despite the government's effort to break the standoff, farmers remain adamant in their demands for higher prices supported by legislation across nearly two dozen crops. Goyal's proposal included the provision of five-year contracts for MSPs to farmers diversifying their crops, including cotton, pigeon peas, black matpe, red lentils, and corn. Reuters cited Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent figure among the farmers' unions, who confirmed the rejection of the government's offer, citing the failure to reach consensus among the unions. Analysts opine that the government's response falls short of addressing the core demands of farmers, notably the legal guarantee for MSPs, raising concerns about the sincerity of its efforts. Some analysts have criticised the government's approach, suggesting that it has overlooked the fundamental demands of farmers. Moreover, experts argue that diversifying crops, particularly towards pulses, could alleviate pressures on water resources and reduce reliance on imports, thereby offering long-term benefits. The ongoing standoff has witnessed confrontations between farmers and law enforcement authorities, with tear gas and barricades employed to thwart the farmers' march towards New Delhi. (With inputs from Reuters)

Indian farmers reject government's offer of five-year minimum support price contracts

A part of Indian protesting farmers has rejected a five-year contract to buy three types of pulses, maize, and cotton at the old Minimum Support Price (MSP). The protesting farmers will continue their 'Dilli Chalo' march (March to Delhi) on Wednesday (Feb 21).&nbsp;

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which was leading the cause when farmer unions were protesting against farm laws in 2020-2021, said that the proposal diverts attention&nbsp;from the key demand of guaranteed MSP.&nbsp;

As quoted in local media, SKM also asked for the purchase of "all crops (23, including the above five) with guaranteed procurement (as) promised in the BJP manifesto (before the) 2014 general election".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sps-akhilesh-yadav-shuns-rahul-gandhis-march-as-deeper-crack-appears-in-oppn-india-bloc-691721">SP’s Akhilesh Yadav shuns Rahul Gandhi’s march as deeper crack appears in oppn INDIA bloc</a>&nbsp;

Two groups, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and the SKM (non-political), have not responded to the proposal made by the government on Sunday.&nbsp;

Notably, MSP is announced by the government at the beginning of the sowing season for certain crops on the basis of several factors. It aims at insuring agricultural producers against any sharp fall in&nbsp;prices.&nbsp;

Farmers in India, mostly from the states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, had called for a protest to demand a law guaranteeing MSP for crops.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandigarh-mayor-polls-row-sc-denies-fresh-elections-but-heres-why-aaps-troubles-are-far-from-over-691709">Chandigarh mayor polls row: SC denies fresh elections but here’s why AAP’s troubles are far from over</a>&nbsp;

Police have countered the protests, and attempted to stop the farmers' march which was said to be moving towards the Indian capital New Delhi.&nbsp;

Their demands also include&nbsp;the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, withdrawal of police cases,&nbsp;and "justice" for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, among others.&nbsp;

As quoted by India-based news agency PTI,&nbsp;agriculture expert Anil Ghanwat points out, "The three farm laws that were passed (later withdrawn by the Centre in 2021) had no relation to MSP whatsoever, neither was it part of the farmers’ demand during the first agitation (back in 2020-2021)."&nbsp;

"It all came at a later stage. After the demand for MSP was raised, our committee (panel set up by the Supreme Court to study three farm laws) said that it is unimplementable for the government to give MSP on every crop," Ghanwat added.&nbsp;

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VIDEO | Here’s what agriculture expert Anil Ghanwat said on farmers' protest and their demand for MSP guarantee law. 
 
“The three farm laws that were passed (later withdrawn by the Centre in 2021) had no relation to MSP whatsoever, neither was it part of the farmers’ demand during… <a href="https://t.co/5JjC9aON1O">pic.twitter.com/5JjC9aON1O</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1759570590275694827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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While talking about the farmers' protest, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal said, "It is sad that the farmers had to take to the streets once again. I also urge the state government - when you formed the government, you promised Punjabis that you would give MSP on 23 crops, regardless of whether the Centre does the same...I ask the farmer unions, do demand from the Centre but why are you not making demands from the state government too?..."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A part of Indian protesting farmers has rejected a five-year contract to buy three types of pulses, maize, and cotton at the old Minimum Support Price (MSP). The protesting farmers will continue their 'Dilli Chalo' march (March to Delhi) on Wednesday (Feb 21).

A part of Indian protesting farmers has rejected a five-year contract to buy three types of pulses, maize, and cotton at the old Minimum Support Price (MSP). The protesting farmers will continue their 'Dilli Chalo' march (March to Delhi) on Wednesday (Feb 21). The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which was leading the cause when farmer unions were protesting against farm laws in 2020-2021, said that the proposal diverts attention from the key demand of guaranteed MSP. As quoted in local media, SKM also asked for the purchase of "all crops (23, including the above five) with guaranteed procurement (as) promised in the BJP manifesto (before the) 2014 general election". Also read: SP’s Akhilesh Yadav shuns Rahul Gandhi’s march as deeper crack appears in oppn INDIA bloc Two groups, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and the SKM (non-political), have not responded to the proposal made by the government on Sunday. Notably, MSP is announced by the government at the beginning of the sowing season for certain crops on the basis of several factors. It aims at insuring agricultural producers against any sharp fall in prices. Farmers in India, mostly from the states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab, had called for a protest to demand a law guaranteeing MSP for crops. Also read: Chandigarh mayor polls row: SC denies fresh elections but here’s why AAP’s troubles are far from over Police have countered the protests, and attempted to stop the farmers' march which was said to be moving towards the Indian capital New Delhi. Their demands also include the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, withdrawal of police cases, and "justice" for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, among others. As quoted by India-based news agency PTI, agriculture expert Anil Ghanwat points out, "The three farm laws that were passed (later withdrawn by the Centre in 2021) had no relation to MSP whatsoever, neither was it part of the farmers’ demand during the first agitation (back in 2020-2021)." "It all came at a later stage. After the demand for MSP was raised, our committee (panel set up by the Supreme Court to study three farm laws) said that it is unimplementable for the government to give MSP on every crop," Ghanwat added. VIDEO | Here’s what agriculture expert Anil Ghanwat said on farmers' protest and their demand for MSP guarantee law. “The three farm laws that were passed (later withdrawn by the Centre in 2021) had no relation to MSP whatsoever, neither was it part of the farmers’ demand during… pic.twitter.com/5JjC9aON1O — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 19, 2024 × While talking about the farmers' protest, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal said, "It is sad that the farmers had to take to the streets once again. I also urge the state government - when you formed the government, you promised Punjabis that you would give MSP on 23 crops, regardless of whether the Centre does the same...I ask the farmer unions, do demand from the Centre but why are you not making demands from the state government too?..." (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' body rejects Indian government's five-year MSP contract offer, calling it a diversion tactic

A selfie point in Kashmir’s Uri near the Line of Control (LoC), India’s de-facto border with Pakistan, is drawing tourists in large numbers as it allows them to capture stunning border regions as well as the picturesque Jhelum river.

The point, named INDIA, was opened for public around India’s Republic Day this year, which is observed on January 26. Indian news agency PTI quoted army officials as saying that the selfie point provides visitors with an engaging environment symbolising a sense of nationalism in the region.

<h2>Brain child of Rouble Nagi</h2>

The INDIA selfie point was envisioned by Rouble Nagi, an artist and the founder of Rouble Nagi Art Foundation (RNAF), a Mumbai-based NGO.

Watch:&nbsp;Kashmir: Snowfall welcomes tourists as Gulmarg witness a massive tourist influx

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The point has been placed along the National Highway-44 and the structure offers a panoramic view of the picturesque Jhelum river, enhancing the pride of the locals as well as the tourists, the officials said.

<h2>Army thanks the RNAF</h2>

PTI quoted the Indian Army as thanking the Nagi’s foundation for its women empowerment projects. “Her gesture of gifting the structure stands as a testimony to rising nationalism in the valley. The selfie point was conceptualised with an aim to provide a unique engaging environment for individuals and groups alike,” the army said.

<h2>Nagi expresses gratitude</h2>

Nagi also expressed her gratitude for having the opportunity to sculpt the name of the nation through her art installation. She said she saw her work as a tribute to the sacrifices made by various sections of society for the country’s freedom.

“Nothing feels better than sculpting the name of my nation through my art. Proud to install my sculpture #INDIA at Uri, a remote border region,” Nagi, daughter of a retired army officer, said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1-I74u_ki0i3ZbEkZ6sJSm" data-ved="2ahUKEwihvpv7wrWEAxUJyqACHXr2AEoQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farooq-abdullah-to-contest-solo-in-jammu-and-kashmir-hints-potential-nda-return-690633" jsname="YKoRaf">India elections: National Conference to go solo in Jammu and Kashmir, says Farooq Abdullah</a>

“How blessed we are to be free. Our children need to know the sacrifices that were made by so many to protect the freedom we enjoy today,” she said, urging people to visit Uri.

Nagi has played a key role in establishing other important selfie points in Kashmir as well, including one at the revamped Polo View market, Rajbagh and Dal Lake.

(With inputs from agencies)

A selfie point in Kashmir’s Uri near the Line of Control (LoC), India’s de-facto border with Pakistan, is drawing tourists in large numbers as it allows them to capture stunning border regions as well as the picturesque Jhelum river.

A selfie point in Kashmir’s Uri near the Line of Control (LoC), India’s de-facto border with Pakistan, is drawing tourists in large numbers as it allows them to capture stunning border regions as well as the picturesque Jhelum river. The point, named INDIA, was opened for public around India’s Republic Day this year, which is observed on January 26. Indian news agency PTI quoted army officials as saying that the selfie point provides visitors with an engaging environment symbolising a sense of nationalism in the region. Brain child of Rouble Nagi The INDIA selfie point was envisioned by Rouble Nagi, an artist and the founder of Rouble Nagi Art Foundation (RNAF), a Mumbai-based NGO. Watch: Kashmir: Snowfall welcomes tourists as Gulmarg witness a massive tourist influx × The point has been placed along the National Highway-44 and the structure offers a panoramic view of the picturesque Jhelum river, enhancing the pride of the locals as well as the tourists, the officials said. Army thanks the RNAF PTI quoted the Indian Army as thanking the Nagi’s foundation for its women empowerment projects. “Her gesture of gifting the structure stands as a testimony to rising nationalism in the valley. The selfie point was conceptualised with an aim to provide a unique engaging environment for individuals and groups alike,” the army said. Nagi expresses gratitude Nagi also expressed her gratitude for having the opportunity to sculpt the name of the nation through her art installation. She said she saw her work as a tribute to the sacrifices made by various sections of society for the country’s freedom. “Nothing feels better than sculpting the name of my nation through my art. Proud to install my sculpture #INDIA at Uri, a remote border region,” Nagi, daughter of a retired army officer, said. Also read: India elections: National Conference to go solo in Jammu and Kashmir, says Farooq Abdullah “How blessed we are to be free. Our children need to know the sacrifices that were made by so many to protect the freedom we enjoy today,” she said, urging people to visit Uri. Nagi has played a key role in establishing other important selfie points in Kashmir as well, including one at the revamped Polo View market, Rajbagh and Dal Lake. (With inputs from agencies)

‘INDIA’ selfie point becomes highly popular among tourists in Kashmir’s Uri near LoC

A student in India's Uttar Pradesh preparing for her Class 10 (high school) board exams had to undergo major brain surgery because of a clot caused by an overdose of 'anti-sleep' medication. As per media reports, the&nbsp;Lucknow-based student had been taking these pills for an extended period, leading to nerve swelling and her subsequent hospitalisation.

<h2>Anti-sleeping pills&nbsp;</h2>

As per an ANI report, during the ongoing CBSE board exams, many students are turning to anti-sleep drugs to stay up late and study, disrupting their sleep cycles. These students are also increasing their caffeine intake through tea or coffee. This unhealthy lifestyle is negatively impacting their health, raising questions about the legality of these drugs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rare-triple-dip-la-nina-event-behind-unusual-air-quality-in-india-in-2022-23-says-study-691492">Rare ‘triple-dip’ La Nina event behind unusually good air quality in India in 2022-23, says study</a>

In the recent case, the girl, identified as Prajakta, collapsed one evening after studying all night. While studying, her mother was providing her with coffee to stay awake. Following her collapse, she was hospitalised and diagnosed with a brain clot. It was then that her parents discovered a bottle of anti-sleep pills in her drawer, which she had been taking.

<h2>The danger of these pills</h2>

In a conversation with the news agency, Dr Sharad Srivastava, a neurosurgeon, highlighted the dangerous trend of students using these pills to stay awake during exams. These drugs, sold over the counter under names like 'chuniya' and 'meethi,' are being smuggled from "countries like Bangkok", he said.&nbsp;

"Shocking though it may sound, an increasing number of students today, are taking these anti-sleep pills that help them stay awake during examinations."

"These drugs can have dangerous side effects, especially if taken with an overdose of caffeine — too many cups of coffee — as it happened in Prajakta's case," said Dr Srivastava.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-selfie-point-becomes-a-major-hit-among-tourists-in-kashmirs-uri-691514">‘INDIA’ selfie point becomes highly popular among tourists in Kashmir’s Uri near LoC</a>

These pills are variants of Modafinil, sold as Provigil, known to improve memory, mood, alertness, and cognitive abilities, said another medical practitioner speaking under the condition of anonymity. It is primarily used to treat disorders like narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder.&nbsp;

These allow users to stay awake for "40 hours or more at a stretch", with a smoother effect than amphetamines. However, once the drug wears off, users must catch up on sleep to mitigate its adverse effects.

A psychiatrist, Dr R K Saxena, told the news agency that the pressure on students to achieve high percentages is leading them to use these pills.&nbsp;

"The children are berated if they get even half a per cent less than their friends. The pressure to score 98 and 99 per cent in board examinations is slowly killing them. Parents should accept the fact that such high percentages can be unrealistic and not every child can score these marks," said Dr Saxena.

Prajakta's parents have reportedly acknowledged that they did not realise the extent of pressure their daughter was under.

(With inputs from agencies)

A student in India's Uttar Pradesh preparing for her Class 10 (high school) board exams had to undergo major brain surgery because of a clot caused by an overdose of 'anti-sleep' medication.

A student in India's Uttar Pradesh preparing for her Class 10 (high school) board exams had to undergo major brain surgery because of a clot caused by an overdose of 'anti-sleep' medication. As per media reports, the Lucknow-based student had been taking these pills for an extended period, leading to nerve swelling and her subsequent hospitalisation. Anti-sleeping pills As per an ANI report, during the ongoing CBSE board exams, many students are turning to anti-sleep drugs to stay up late and study, disrupting their sleep cycles. These students are also increasing their caffeine intake through tea or coffee. This unhealthy lifestyle is negatively impacting their health, raising questions about the legality of these drugs. Also read | Rare ‘triple-dip’ La Nina event behind unusually good air quality in India in 2022-23, says study In the recent case, the girl, identified as Prajakta, collapsed one evening after studying all night. While studying, her mother was providing her with coffee to stay awake. Following her collapse, she was hospitalised and diagnosed with a brain clot. It was then that her parents discovered a bottle of anti-sleep pills in her drawer, which she had been taking. The danger of these pills In a conversation with the news agency, Dr Sharad Srivastava, a neurosurgeon, highlighted the dangerous trend of students using these pills to stay awake during exams. These drugs, sold over the counter under names like 'chuniya' and 'meethi,' are being smuggled from "countries like Bangkok", he said. "Shocking though it may sound, an increasing number of students today, are taking these anti-sleep pills that help them stay awake during examinations." "These drugs can have dangerous side effects, especially if taken with an overdose of caffeine — too many cups of coffee — as it happened in Prajakta's case," said Dr Srivastava. Also read | ‘INDIA’ selfie point becomes highly popular among tourists in Kashmir’s Uri near LoC These pills are variants of Modafinil, sold as Provigil, known to improve memory, mood, alertness, and cognitive abilities, said another medical practitioner speaking under the condition of anonymity. It is primarily used to treat disorders like narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder. These allow users to stay awake for "40 hours or more at a stretch", with a smoother effect than amphetamines. However, once the drug wears off, users must catch up on sleep to mitigate its adverse effects. A psychiatrist, Dr R K Saxena, told the news agency that the pressure on students to achieve high percentages is leading them to use these pills. "The children are berated if they get even half a per cent less than their friends. The pressure to score 98 and 99 per cent in board examinations is slowly killing them. Parents should accept the fact that such high percentages can be unrealistic and not every child can score these marks," said Dr Saxena. Prajakta's parents have reportedly acknowledged that they did not realise the extent of pressure their daughter was under. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student undergoes brain surgery after taking ‘anti-sleep’ pills during exams

The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) ordered fresh counting of&nbsp;existing ballot papers instead of a fresh election for the post of Chandigarh mayor.&nbsp; 
 
The court said that the ballot papers of the Chandigarh mayoral elections as well as the entire video recording be produced before it by 2 pm&nbsp;on February 20. The court also asked the Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court to depute a judicial officer, who will be provided with security, to bring the material safely. 
 
Earlier, the returning officer in the Chandigarh Mayor election Anil Masih reached the Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19)&nbsp;after being ordered to appear as he had allegedly tampered with the electoral ballots. 
 
This came after a bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud questioned the presiding officer Anil Masih, as to why he put ‘X’ marks on eight ballot papers and he said that he had found them to be ‘defaced’. 
 
The top court said that votes will be counted by disregarding the ‘X’ marks. The court stated that it will ask the Deputy Commissioner of Chandigarh to nominate a neutral officer to be the returning officer to count the ballots and declare the results, reported Live Law.&nbsp;

Earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manoj Sonkar quit from the post&nbsp;of Chandigarh Mayor on Sunday (Feb 18) ahead of the Supreme Court hearing about claims of irregularities in the voting procedure.

In the first week of February, the Supreme Court denounced the Returning Officer, who conducted the Chandigarh Mayor elections, stating that he was "murdering democracy", further directing the preservation of all election records, including ballot papers video footage and other material, through the Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that it was very evident that the voting papers were vandalised by the returning officer.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-government-puts-forward-5-year-plan-to-buy-pulses-maize-at-msp-after-fourth-round-of-talks-691521">Farmers' protest: Indian govt proposes 5-year plan to buy pulses, maize at MSP, Delhi march paused till Feb 21</a>

"Is this the way he conducts the elections? This is a mockery of democracy. This is the murder of democracy. We are appalled. We will not allow democracy to be murdered this way. The man defaces ballots the moment he sees a cross at the bottom. This man should be prosecuted. Is this the behaviour of the returning officer?"&nbsp;

It ordered that the Chandigarh Corporation meeting, scheduled for February 7, be postponed till further notice.

"Tell the Returning Officer that the Supreme Court is watching him. We will not allow democracy to be murdered like this. The great force in this country is the purity of the electoral process, but what has happened here?," said the bench.

The observations made by the top court came after it viewed footage of the contentious election.

The Supreme Court made these comments at the time of hearing the AAP councillor's&nbsp;plea after the Bharatiya Janata Party won the mayoral election after the Returning Officer scraped eight opposition votes.

Aam Aadmi Party's councillor Kuldeep Dhalor had filed a petition after losing the mayor election to BJP's Party's Manoj Sonkar on Jan 30.

BJP's Sonkar received 16 votes as opposed to Kumar's 12 votes. The action of rejecting eight votes of the AAP-Congress alliance as invalid sparked the allegations of vote tampering.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) ordered fresh counting of existing ballot papers instead of a fresh election for the post of Chandigarh mayor. The court said that the ballot papers of the Chandigarh mayoral elections as well as the entire video recording be produced before it by 2 pm on February 20.

The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) ordered fresh counting of existing ballot papers instead of a fresh election for the post of Chandigarh mayor. The court said that the ballot papers of the Chandigarh mayoral elections as well as the entire video recording be produced before it by 2 pm on February 20. The court also asked the Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court to depute a judicial officer, who will be provided with security, to bring the material safely. Earlier, the returning officer in the Chandigarh Mayor election Anil Masih reached the Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) after being ordered to appear as he had allegedly tampered with the electoral ballots. This came after a bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud questioned the presiding officer Anil Masih, as to why he put ‘X’ marks on eight ballot papers and he said that he had found them to be ‘defaced’. The top court said that votes will be counted by disregarding the ‘X’ marks. The court stated that it will ask the Deputy Commissioner of Chandigarh to nominate a neutral officer to be the returning officer to count the ballots and declare the results, reported Live Law. Earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manoj Sonkar quit from the post of Chandigarh Mayor on Sunday (Feb 18) ahead of the Supreme Court hearing about claims of irregularities in the voting procedure. In the first week of February, the Supreme Court denounced the Returning Officer, who conducted the Chandigarh Mayor elections, stating that he was "murdering democracy", further directing the preservation of all election records, including ballot papers video footage and other material, through the Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that it was very evident that the voting papers were vandalised by the returning officer. Also read: Farmers' protest: Indian govt proposes 5-year plan to buy pulses, maize at MSP, Delhi march paused till Feb 21 "Is this the way he conducts the elections? This is a mockery of democracy. This is the murder of democracy. We are appalled. We will not allow democracy to be murdered this way. The man defaces ballots the moment he sees a cross at the bottom. This man should be prosecuted. Is this the behaviour of the returning officer?" It ordered that the Chandigarh Corporation meeting, scheduled for February 7, be postponed till further notice. "Tell the Returning Officer that the Supreme Court is watching him. We will not allow democracy to be murdered like this. The great force in this country is the purity of the electoral process, but what has happened here?," said the bench. The observations made by the top court came after it viewed footage of the contentious election. The Supreme Court made these comments at the time of hearing the AAP councillor's plea after the Bharatiya Janata Party won the mayoral election after the Returning Officer scraped eight opposition votes. Aam Aadmi Party's councillor Kuldeep Dhalor had filed a petition after losing the mayor election to BJP's Party's Manoj Sonkar on Jan 30. BJP's Sonkar received 16 votes as opposed to Kumar's 12 votes. The action of rejecting eight votes of the AAP-Congress alliance as invalid sparked the allegations of vote tampering. (With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Mayor Polls: SC orders fresh counting of votes, seeks ballots and video recordings

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India.

The unusual "triple-dip" event of three years in a row of La Niña conditions (2020–23) has a global influence on the ocean and climate.

A team of scientists led by Gufran Beig, Chair Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, conducted a study that highlighted the importance of quickly changing climate in relation to air quality, in addition to local emissions.

The study, which was published in the Elsevier Journal, shows that, in contrast to previous decades, the air quality in Indian cities on the peninsula deteriorated during the winter of 2022–2023 while improving in the country's north.

Among the north Indian cities, Ghaziabad recorded the most noteworthy improvement with a drop of 33 per cent, followed by Rohtak (30 per cent) and Noida (28 per cent). Delhi exhibited an improvement of around 10 per cent.

However, with a 30 per cent increase in PM2.5 levels, Mumbai saw the worst degradation, followed by other Indian peninsula cities like Coimbatore (28 per cent), Bengaluru (20 per cent), Chennai (12 per cent), etc.

Several North Indian cities almost surpassed the five-year-long target set under the National Clean Air Programme in no time. What caused this had been a puzzle, said the researchers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-quds-chief-visited-iraq-and-asked-allied-militias-to-halt-attacks-on-us-report-691434">Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report</a>

"The winter of 2022-23 coincided with the last phase of an unusual triple-dip La Niña event, the first in the 21st century. This phenomenon, influenced by climate change, impacted the large-scale wind pattern, playing a decisive role in preventing stagnation conditions in north Indian cities and thus improving air quality," said R H Kripalani, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and co-author of the report.

On the contrary, he said that it brought calmer conditions to Indian towns on the peninsula, hastened transboundary pollution, and dramatically worsened the quality of the air.

"The dominance of higher northerly winds at the transport level forced an influx, along with relatively slower winds near the surface, trapping pollutants in peninsular India and increasing PM2.5 concentration. Conversely, feeble western disturbances, unique wind patterns, and the absence of rain, clouds, and faster ventilation led to a significant improvement in air quality in the north," Kripalani said.

The scientists used the recently created cutting-edge NIAS-SAFAR air quality forecasting model, which blends a chemical transport model with a contemporary artificial intelligence algorithm created locally, to validate their theory.

"Our findings are vindicated as the air quality in the winter of 2023-24, when La Nina ended, returned to normal levels," Beig said.

"The findings of the current paper suggest that we need to wake up to the fact that extreme and unusual occurrences in air pollution phenomena are directly or indirectly manifestations of climate change," he said.

"Such revelations, in all probability, are set to increase by leaps and bounds unless we focus on a long-term strategy to reduce the menace of anthropogenic emissions directly at the source. That would be a win-win situation for both air quality and climate change," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India.

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India. The unusual "triple-dip" event of three years in a row of La Niña conditions (2020–23) has a global influence on the ocean and climate. A team of scientists led by Gufran Beig, Chair Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, conducted a study that highlighted the importance of quickly changing climate in relation to air quality, in addition to local emissions. The study, which was published in the Elsevier Journal, shows that, in contrast to previous decades, the air quality in Indian cities on the peninsula deteriorated during the winter of 2022–2023 while improving in the country's north. Among the north Indian cities, Ghaziabad recorded the most noteworthy improvement with a drop of 33 per cent, followed by Rohtak (30 per cent) and Noida (28 per cent). Delhi exhibited an improvement of around 10 per cent. However, with a 30 per cent increase in PM2.5 levels, Mumbai saw the worst degradation, followed by other Indian peninsula cities like Coimbatore (28 per cent), Bengaluru (20 per cent), Chennai (12 per cent), etc. Several North Indian cities almost surpassed the five-year-long target set under the National Clean Air Programme in no time. What caused this had been a puzzle, said the researchers. Also read: Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report "The winter of 2022-23 coincided with the last phase of an unusual triple-dip La Niña event, the first in the 21st century. This phenomenon, influenced by climate change, impacted the large-scale wind pattern, playing a decisive role in preventing stagnation conditions in north Indian cities and thus improving air quality," said R H Kripalani, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and co-author of the report. On the contrary, he said that it brought calmer conditions to Indian towns on the peninsula, hastened transboundary pollution, and dramatically worsened the quality of the air. "The dominance of higher northerly winds at the transport level forced an influx, along with relatively slower winds near the surface, trapping pollutants in peninsular India and increasing PM2.5 concentration. Conversely, feeble western disturbances, unique wind patterns, and the absence of rain, clouds, and faster ventilation led to a significant improvement in air quality in the north," Kripalani said. The scientists used the recently created cutting-edge NIAS-SAFAR air quality forecasting model, which blends a chemical transport model with a contemporary artificial intelligence algorithm created locally, to validate their theory. "Our findings are vindicated as the air quality in the winter of 2023-24, when La Nina ended, returned to normal levels," Beig said. "The findings of the current paper suggest that we need to wake up to the fact that extreme and unusual occurrences in air pollution phenomena are directly or indirectly manifestations of climate change," he said. "Such revelations, in all probability, are set to increase by leaps and bounds unless we focus on a long-term strategy to reduce the menace of anthropogenic emissions directly at the source. That would be a win-win situation for both air quality and climate change," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare ‘triple-dip’ La Nina event behind unusually good air quality in India in 2022-23, says study

A fourth round of talks was held between the Union ministers and farmer leaders on Sunday (Feb 18). Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Sector 26 in Chandigarh for the meeting which started at 8:15 pm and ended at around 1 am on Monday (Feb 19).

Following the meeting, while talking to the reporters, Goyal said that the panel has suggested that government agencies buy cotton, maize, and pulse crops for five years at minimum support rates after reaching a deal with farmers.

"Cooperative societies like the NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers Federation) and NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) will enter into a contract with those farmers who grow 'tur dal', 'urad dal', 'masoor dal' or maize for buying their crop at MSP for next five years," said Goyal.

"There will be no limit on the quantity (purchased) and a portal will be developed for this," he added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Chandigarh: Union Minister Piyush Goyal says, "The farmers' union will tell us their decision by morning. We will also have discussions with NCCF and NAFED after returning to Delhi..." <a href="https://t.co/rSzqom0bMq">pic.twitter.com/rSzqom0bMq</a>
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&nbsp;

Goyal said that this would preserve Punjab's farming industry, raise the groundwater table, and prevent the already stressed area from becoming barren.

"The farmers' union will tell us their decision by morning. We will also have discussions with NCCF and NAFED after returning to Delhi," he added.

<h2>'Will have discussion on the government proposal in next two days,'&nbsp;says farmer leader</h2>

Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said that they will hold a discussion regarding the government proposal, taking inputs from the experts to reach a decision.&nbsp;Till then, the march towards Delhi has been put on hold.

"We will discuss in our forums on February 19-20 and take the opinion of experts regarding it and accordingly take a decision," Pandher said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-haryana-government-extends-ban-on-mobile-internet-services-691376">Farmers' protest: Haryana government extends ban on mobile internet services</a>

However, he&nbsp;asserted that farmers will continue with the 'Dilli&nbsp;Chalo' march on Feb 21 if there is no result.

"The govt will also deliberate on the other demands. We will continue with the 'Delhi Chalo' march on Feb 21 if there is no result," he said after the conclusion of the meeting.

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&nbsp;

The farmer leader further said that the government and farmers' unions would try to find a solution to the issues.

"We will have a discussion on the proposal by the govt and take opinions on it...The decision will be taken by today morning, evening or the day after...The ministers said that they will have discussions on the other demands after returning to Delhi...The discussions will be held on Feb 19-20 and the 'Delhi Chalo' march scheduled for Feb 21 will be decided based on the discussions...Together (govt and the farmers' union) we will try to find a solution to the issues," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Farmers demanding MSP guarantee on purchase of pulses,&nbsp;says Punjab CM</h2>

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the farmers had demanded an MSP guarantee on the purchase of pulses, which was discussed during the talks that went on for five hours.

"First, a guarantee will have to be given, which will be possible only if NAFED, NCCF and Cotton Corporation get a guarantee of 5 years. In which there are 6 to 7 decisions, this proposal has been given in which the farmers will take the decision and then they will go and discuss," Mann said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fourth round of talks was held between the Union ministers and farmer leaders on Sunday (Feb 18). Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Sector 26 in Chandigarh for the meeting which started at 8:15 pm and ended at around 1 am on Monday (Feb 19).

A fourth round of talks was held between the Union ministers and farmer leaders on Sunday (Feb 18). Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai arrived at Mahatma Gandhi Institute in Sector 26 in Chandigarh for the meeting which started at 8:15 pm and ended at around 1 am on Monday (Feb 19). Following the meeting, while talking to the reporters, Goyal said that the panel has suggested that government agencies buy cotton, maize, and pulse crops for five years at minimum support rates after reaching a deal with farmers. "Cooperative societies like the NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers Federation) and NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) will enter into a contract with those farmers who grow 'tur dal', 'urad dal', 'masoor dal' or maize for buying their crop at MSP for next five years," said Goyal. "There will be no limit on the quantity (purchased) and a portal will be developed for this," he added. #WATCH | Chandigarh: Union Minister Piyush Goyal says, "The farmers' union will tell us their decision by morning. We will also have discussions with NCCF and NAFED after returning to Delhi..." pic.twitter.com/rSzqom0bMq — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2024 × Goyal said that this would preserve Punjab's farming industry, raise the groundwater table, and prevent the already stressed area from becoming barren. "The farmers' union will tell us their decision by morning. We will also have discussions with NCCF and NAFED after returning to Delhi," he added. 'Will have discussion on the government proposal in next two days,' says farmer leader Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said that they will hold a discussion regarding the government proposal, taking inputs from the experts to reach a decision. Till then, the march towards Delhi has been put on hold. "We will discuss in our forums on February 19-20 and take the opinion of experts regarding it and accordingly take a decision," Pandher said. Also read: Farmers' protest: Haryana government extends ban on mobile internet services However, he asserted that farmers will continue with the 'Dilli Chalo' march on Feb 21 if there is no result. "The govt will also deliberate on the other demands. We will continue with the 'Delhi Chalo' march on Feb 21 if there is no result," he said after the conclusion of the meeting. #WATCH | Chandigarh: General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarvan Singh Pandher says, "...We will have discussions on the proposal by the govt in the next two days...The govt will also deliberate on the other demands...We will continue with the 'Delhi… pic.twitter.com/uHXlrQywR8 — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2024 × The farmer leader further said that the government and farmers' unions would try to find a solution to the issues. "We will have a discussion on the proposal by the govt and take opinions on it...The decision will be taken by today morning, evening or the day after...The ministers said that they will have discussions on the other demands after returning to Delhi...The discussions will be held on Feb 19-20 and the 'Delhi Chalo' march scheduled for Feb 21 will be decided based on the discussions...Together (govt and the farmers' union) we will try to find a solution to the issues," he added. Farmers demanding MSP guarantee on purchase of pulses, says Punjab CM Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the farmers had demanded an MSP guarantee on the purchase of pulses, which was discussed during the talks that went on for five hours. "First, a guarantee will have to be given, which will be possible only if NAFED, NCCF and Cotton Corporation get a guarantee of 5 years. In which there are 6 to 7 decisions, this proposal has been given in which the farmers will take the decision and then they will go and discuss," Mann said. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: Indian govt proposes 5-year plan to buy pulses, maize at MSP, Delhi march paused till Feb 21

In a major security breach reported from Dibrugarh Jail in India's Assam, where separatist leader, Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh and his associates are currently lodged along with others, several unauthorised activities were detected in the National Security Act (NSA) cell.

The director general of Assam Police, GP Singh, in a post on X, confirmed the incident stating that a search operation, which was launched early this morning, helped in the recovery of multiple unauthorised items, including a spy camera, a smartphone, a keypad phone, pen drives, Bluetooth headphones, speakers, a smartwatch, among others from the NSA cell.

He then said that the items recovered were lawfully seized by the jail authorities and that an investigation was underway to determine their source.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-why-sikh-separatist-amritpal-singh-kept-in-dibrugarh-jail-in-assam-585618">Explained: Why Sikh separatist Amritpal Singh is being kept in Assam's Dibrugarh jail</a>

"Reference NSA detenues at Dibrugarh Jail, Assam - On receipt of information about unauthorised activities taking place in the NSA cell, additional CCTV cameras were installed in the public area of the NSA block. Inputs received confirmed unauthorised activities, based on which Jail staff searched the premises of NSA Cell early this morning, leading to the recovery of a smartphone with a SIM card, a keypad phone, a TV remote with a keyboard, a spy-cam pen, pen drives, Bluetooth headphones &amp; speakers and a smart watch, which were lawfully seized by Jail staff," the Assam DGP wrote on his official X handle.

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&nbsp;

"The source of these unauthorised articles and the mode of induction are being ascertained. Further lawful action is being taken and steps are being taken to prevent recurrence," he added.

Radical preacher Amritpal Singh was arrested by Punjab police on April 23 from Moga's Rode village after days of a man-hunt when he finally surrendered.&nbsp;

Nine of Amritpal's close aides, including Papalpreet Singh and Daljeet Singh Kalsi, are also in the same jail.&nbsp; 
 
Singh claims to draw inspiration from Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who led the militant, separatist movement during the 1970s and 1980s. He&nbsp;emulates&nbsp;Bhindranwale’s style&nbsp;by wearing similar clothes and keeping a long beard. 
 
He was arrested under the National Security Act, which allows for those considered a threat to national security to be detained without charge for up to a year. 
 
The Waris Punjab De chief is facing a number of criminal cases related to spreading disharmony, attempt to murder, attack on police and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duty by public servants.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major security breach reported from Dibrugarh Jail in India's Assam, where separatist leader, Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh and his associates are currently lodged along with others, several unauthorised activities were detected in the National Security Act (NSA) cell.

In a major security breach reported from Dibrugarh Jail in India's Assam, where separatist leader, Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh and his associates are currently lodged along with others, several unauthorised activities were detected in the National Security Act (NSA) cell. The director general of Assam Police, GP Singh, in a post on X, confirmed the incident stating that a search operation, which was launched early this morning, helped in the recovery of multiple unauthorised items, including a spy camera, a smartphone, a keypad phone, pen drives, Bluetooth headphones, speakers, a smartwatch, among others from the NSA cell. He then said that the items recovered were lawfully seized by the jail authorities and that an investigation was underway to determine their source. Also read: Explained: Why Sikh separatist Amritpal Singh is being kept in Assam's Dibrugarh jail "Reference NSA detenues at Dibrugarh Jail, Assam - On receipt of information about unauthorised activities taking place in the NSA cell, additional CCTV cameras were installed in the public area of the NSA block. Inputs received confirmed unauthorised activities, based on which Jail staff searched the premises of NSA Cell early this morning, leading to the recovery of a smartphone with a SIM card, a keypad phone, a TV remote with a keyboard, a spy-cam pen, pen drives, Bluetooth headphones & speakers and a smart watch, which were lawfully seized by Jail staff," the Assam DGP wrote on his official X handle. Reference NSA detenues at Dibrugarh Jail, Assam - On receipt of Information about unauthorised activities taking place in NSA cell, additional CCTV cameras were installed in public area of NSA Block. Inputs received confirmed unauthorised activities, based on which Jail staff… pic.twitter.com/Iwf5kWOeXN — GP Singh (@gpsinghips) February 17, 2024 × "The source of these unauthorised articles and the mode of induction are being ascertained. Further lawful action is being taken and steps are being taken to prevent recurrence," he added. Radical preacher Amritpal Singh was arrested by Punjab police on April 23 from Moga's Rode village after days of a man-hunt when he finally surrendered. Nine of Amritpal's close aides, including Papalpreet Singh and Daljeet Singh Kalsi, are also in the same jail. Singh claims to draw inspiration from Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who led the militant, separatist movement during the 1970s and 1980s. He emulates Bhindranwale’s style by wearing similar clothes and keeping a long beard. He was arrested under the National Security Act, which allows for those considered a threat to national security to be detained without charge for up to a year. The Waris Punjab De chief is facing a number of criminal cases related to spreading disharmony, attempt to murder, attack on police and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duty by public servants. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Phones, spy cam found in Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh’s jail cell in Assam

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, hopeful of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's return to an alliance with his party, on Friday (Feb 16) said that "doors remain open" for the Janata Dal (United) supremo (JD(U)).

Kumar on Saturday responding to Lalu's remarks said, “I don't pay attention to who says what. Things were not going well, so I left them (RJD).”

"We will now investigate whatever went wrong in between,” he added.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In January, Kumar ditched JDU's alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and formed a new government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

He took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar for the record ninth time, cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/never-happened-before-in-india-ncp-founder-sharad-pawar-reacts-after-losing-party-name-to-nephew-691204">‘Never happened before in India,’ NCP founder Sharad Pawar reacts after losing party name to nephew</a>

Lalu was on Friday asked if his party would give another chance to the Bihar CM, to which he replied, "Ab aayenge toh dekhenge, khula hi rehta hai darwaaza' (if he will we will see, door remains open)."

A day before, the two were seen exchanging pleasantries in a brief encounter at the state assembly.

The footage of their brief interaction became a talking point on social media as it was their first meeting following the recent separation.

Lalu was accompanied by his son, former Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav.

Further, on being asked if Rahul Gandhi could become the next prime minister of the country, Lalu said, "Koi kami thodi hai, koi kami nahi hain, (there is no incompetency in him)."

He also affirmed that he would remove PM Modi in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

<h2>Tejashwi Yadav launches fresh attack on Nitish Kumar</h2>

Tejashwi Yadav, launching a scathing attack against Kumar, said that the Bihar CM does not want to listen to anyone.

"You all very well know how our CM is, he does not want to listen to anyone. He used to say 'I will die, but won't join BJP'...We decided to stay with Nitish ji, no matter how much we have to sacrifice, only to defeat BJP in 2024. We had appointed a tired Chief Minister," said Yadav while addressing the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Friday in Sasaram.

Yadav, who joined the Rahul Gandhi-led 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' on Friday, was seen driving the Congress leader in the lead jeep.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, hopeful of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's return to an alliance with his party, on Friday (Feb 16) said that "doors remain open" for the Janata Dal (United) supremo (JD(U)).

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, hopeful of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's return to an alliance with his party, on Friday (Feb 16) said that "doors remain open" for the Janata Dal (United) supremo (JD(U)). Kumar on Saturday responding to Lalu's remarks said, “I don't pay attention to who says what. Things were not going well, so I left them (RJD).” "We will now investigate whatever went wrong in between,” he added. #WATCH | On Lalu Yadav's 'doors open' remark, Bihar CM & JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar says, "Don't think of who says what...Things were not going well, so I left them (RJD)..." pic.twitter.com/CEBDq5LaMn — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2024 × In January, Kumar ditched JDU's alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and formed a new government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar for the record ninth time, cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. Also read: ‘Never happened before in India,’ NCP founder Sharad Pawar reacts after losing party name to nephew Lalu was on Friday asked if his party would give another chance to the Bihar CM, to which he replied, "Ab aayenge toh dekhenge, khula hi rehta hai darwaaza' (if he will we will see, door remains open)." A day before, the two were seen exchanging pleasantries in a brief encounter at the state assembly. The footage of their brief interaction became a talking point on social media as it was their first meeting following the recent separation. Lalu was accompanied by his son, former Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav. Further, on being asked if Rahul Gandhi could become the next prime minister of the country, Lalu said, "Koi kami thodi hai, koi kami nahi hain, (there is no incompetency in him)." He also affirmed that he would remove PM Modi in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Tejashwi Yadav launches fresh attack on Nitish Kumar Tejashwi Yadav, launching a scathing attack against Kumar, said that the Bihar CM does not want to listen to anyone. "You all very well know how our CM is, he does not want to listen to anyone. He used to say 'I will die, but won't join BJP'...We decided to stay with Nitish ji, no matter how much we have to sacrifice, only to defeat BJP in 2024. We had appointed a tired Chief Minister," said Yadav while addressing the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Friday in Sasaram. Yadav, who joined the Rahul Gandhi-led 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' on Friday, was seen driving the Congress leader in the lead jeep. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar responds to Lalu Prasad Yadav’s ‘doors remain open’ remark

As world leaders gather for the three-day annual Munich Security Conference (MSC) from Friday (Feb 16), the report which typically sets the scene for the gathering paints a grim picture. The Munich Security Index report has indicated that the world has entered an era where countries are no longer focused on benefits of global cooperation but rather relative advantage.

Where does India stand in this global shift as per the report? Let me explain.

<h2>About the report</h2>

Overall, the report indicates that there is a sense of pessimism, particularly in the West, about national security and economic outlook in the next 10 years, while people across the world continue to be most concerned about environmental threats.&nbsp;

Notably, contrary to the Western pessimism on national security and economic outlook, the report finds that people in India and China are “decidedly more optimistic” about their future.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Munich Security Index 2024: Only UK, Japan view Russia as top threat among G7

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The report titled ‘Lose-Lose?’ is based on the Munich Security Index (MSI) 2024, a survey of a representative sample of 1,000 people from each G7 member (United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the European Union) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries, except Russia, on questions to explore citizens’ risk perceptions in these nations.&nbsp;

The MSI combines five metrics – overall risk, potential damage, expected trajectory, perceived imminence, and feelings of preparedness.&nbsp;

According to the report, following last year’s record-high threat perceptions, this year there was an aggregate decrease across 21 risk indicators and an increase among 10.&nbsp;

<h2>Munich Security Index report: What about India?</h2>

The survey, conducted between October 24 and November 16, 2023, shows that Russia’s standing among most countries since its invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago has plummeted.&nbsp;

However, countries like India, China and South Africa continue to consider Russia more of an ally than a risk&nbsp;in stark contrast to citizens in the G7 countries.&nbsp;

“In the BRICS countries, risk perceptions have been less volatile since 2021, suggesting that citizens see Russia’s war to be less of a turning point,” said the report.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-causes-dry-spell-in-kashmir-winter-wonderland-gulmarg-struggles-with-no-snow-678250">Climate change causes dry spell in Kashmir: Winter wonderland Gulmarg struggles with no snow</a>

The report indicates that most Indian respondents were concerned about the environment, climate change and technology.&nbsp;

Notably, the perceived threat posed by China fell from second place in 2023 to seventh place this year, according to the report, even as 10 per cent of respondents felt unprepared for the threat posed by Beijing.&nbsp;

Climate change and environment

At the top of the list of perceived risks among Indians was ‘climate change generally,’ according to the report.&nbsp;

The MSI report also noted a closing gap between the threat of ‘extreme weather and forest fires’ – which marked a significant rise and is up seven places to become the fourth topmost concern in India – and ‘climate change generally’, indicating that&nbsp;Indian respondents are linking the two aspects.&nbsp;

From deadly floods to forest fires, India witnessed a number of natural disasters in 2023, which could be linked to human-induced climate change.

The country also experienced its second warmest year in 122 years last year, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).&nbsp;

‘Destruction of natural habitat’ was also among the top three risks perceived by Indian respondents.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-witnessed-a-climate-disaster-almost-everyday-this-year-cyclone-michaung-is-one-more-to-that-tally-666523">Data lab: India saw at least one major weather event each day in 2023. Cyclone Michaung adds to the tally</a>

In July, the Indian parliament passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-forest-conservation-act-amendments-622296">Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act</a> which drew widespread criticism from several state governments, policy experts, and conservationists.

The amendment in question exempts forest land up to 10 hectares for constructing security-related infrastructure and a 100-kilometre area around the country’s international borders for “strategic and security-related projects of national importance.”

Technology and threat of cyber attacks

In line with most countries across the world, India is also concerned about cyber attacks which were perceived as the second biggest risk among Indian respondents, according to the report.&nbsp;

A 2023 report by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-cyber-threats-in-healthcare-digital-india-and-the-need-to-beef-up-cyber-security-601894">Check Point Software Technologies</a>, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst, showed that India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks a week on average in an organisation, over the past six months, when compared to the global average of 983.&nbsp;

On the other hand, India has reportedly expressed less concern about ‘Autonomous robots/artificial intelligence’ compared to every other country surveyed, except China.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/love-in-the-age-of-ai-how-safe-are-ai-romance-chatbots-experts-warn-of-heartbreak-and-privacy-risks-690667">Love in the age of AI: How safe are AI romance chatbots? Experts warn of heartbreak and privacy risks</a>

This comes as world leaders are being called on by experts to introduce laws to regulate the rampant growth of artificial intelligence (AI) warning of its alarming impact on society.&nbsp;

<h2>Munich Security Conference 2024</h2>

Leaders and representatives from around the world are gathered in the German city of Munich for Munich Security Conference, from February 16 to 18. However, Russian and Iranian government officials have not been invited this year to the gathering.&nbsp;

Notably, the event will also take place ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and months into the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

The war in Gaza triggered by Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack on Israel is seemingly starting to spread to the rest of the Middle East as Iranian-backed groups enter&nbsp;the fray and Western nations continue to battle them in Iraq, Yemen and Syria.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oecd-raises-india-and-global-growth-outlook-for-2024-687238">OECD raises India and global growth outlook for 2024, warns of Middle East crisis 'risk'</a>

“Unfortunately, this year’s report reflects a downward trend in world politics, marked by an increase in geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty…no wonder then that many governments are rethinking their international engagement,” Christoph Heusgen, chairman of the MSC, wrote in the foreword of the report.

However, he also noted that “while ‘de-risking’ in various ways is a necessary response to a changing and more dangerous geopolitical environment, a stronger focus on the relative gains of cooperation risks undermining the absolute benefits of cooperation.”

“We must avoid ending up in ever more lose-lose situations that come with the fragmenting global order,” Heusgen wrote.&nbsp;

The MSC chairman, on Tuesday (Feb 13), said that he hoped that the leaders and representatives from various countries would discuss these conflicts as well as others which are receiving less attention including the 10-month-old war in Sudan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As world leaders gather for the three-day annual Munich Security Conference (MSC) from Friday (Feb 16), the report which typically sets the scene for the gathering paints a grim picture.

As world leaders gather for the three-day annual Munich Security Conference (MSC) from Friday (Feb 16), the report which typically sets the scene for the gathering paints a grim picture. The Munich Security Index report has indicated that the world has entered an era where countries are no longer focused on benefits of global cooperation but rather relative advantage. Where does India stand in this global shift as per the report? Let me explain. About the report Overall, the report indicates that there is a sense of pessimism, particularly in the West, about national security and economic outlook in the next 10 years, while people across the world continue to be most concerned about environmental threats. Notably, contrary to the Western pessimism on national security and economic outlook, the report finds that people in India and China are “decidedly more optimistic” about their future. WATCH | Munich Security Index 2024: Only UK, Japan view Russia as top threat among G7 The report titled ‘Lose-Lose?’ is based on the Munich Security Index (MSI) 2024, a survey of a representative sample of 1,000 people from each G7 member (United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the European Union) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries, except Russia, on questions to explore citizens’ risk perceptions in these nations. The MSI combines five metrics – overall risk, potential damage, expected trajectory, perceived imminence, and feelings of preparedness. According to the report, following last year’s record-high threat perceptions, this year there was an aggregate decrease across 21 risk indicators and an increase among 10. Munich Security Index report: What about India? The survey, conducted between October 24 and November 16, 2023, shows that Russia’s standing among most countries since its invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago has plummeted. However, countries like India, China and South Africa continue to consider Russia more of an ally than a risk in stark contrast to citizens in the G7 countries. “In the BRICS countries, risk perceptions have been less volatile since 2021, suggesting that citizens see Russia’s war to be less of a turning point,” said the report. Also Read | Climate change causes dry spell in Kashmir: Winter wonderland Gulmarg struggles with no snow The report indicates that most Indian respondents were concerned about the environment, climate change and technology. Notably, the perceived threat posed by China fell from second place in 2023 to seventh place this year, according to the report, even as 10 per cent of respondents felt unprepared for the threat posed by Beijing. Climate change and environment At the top of the list of perceived risks among Indians was ‘climate change generally,’ according to the report. The MSI report also noted a closing gap between the threat of ‘extreme weather and forest fires’ – which marked a significant rise and is up seven places to become the fourth topmost concern in India – and ‘climate change generally’, indicating that Indian respondents are linking the two aspects. From deadly floods to forest fires, India witnessed a number of natural disasters in 2023, which could be linked to human-induced climate change. The country also experienced its second warmest year in 122 years last year, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). ‘Destruction of natural habitat’ was also among the top three risks perceived by Indian respondents. Also Read | Data lab: India saw at least one major weather event each day in 2023. Cyclone Michaung adds to the tally In July, the Indian parliament passed the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act which drew widespread criticism from several state governments, policy experts, and conservationists. The amendment in question exempts forest land up to 10 hectares for constructing security-related infrastructure and a 100-kilometre area around the country’s international borders for “strategic and security-related projects of national importance.” Technology and threat of cyber attacks In line with most countries across the world, India is also concerned about cyber attacks which were perceived as the second biggest risk among Indian respondents, according to the report. A 2023 report by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst, showed that India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks a week on average in an organisation, over the past six months, when compared to the global average of 983. On the other hand, India has reportedly expressed less concern about ‘Autonomous robots/artificial intelligence’ compared to every other country surveyed, except China. Also Read | Love in the age of AI: How safe are AI romance chatbots? Experts warn of heartbreak and privacy risks This comes as world leaders are being called on by experts to introduce laws to regulate the rampant growth of artificial intelligence (AI) warning of its alarming impact on society. Munich Security Conference 2024 Leaders and representatives from around the world are gathered in the German city of Munich for Munich Security Conference, from February 16 to 18. However, Russian and Iranian government officials have not been invited this year to the gathering. Notably, the event will also take place ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and months into the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. The war in Gaza triggered by Hamas’ deadly October 7 attack on Israel is seemingly starting to spread to the rest of the Middle East as Iranian-backed groups enter the fray and Western nations continue to battle them in Iraq, Yemen and Syria. Also Read | OECD raises India and global growth outlook for 2024, warns of Middle East crisis 'risk' “Unfortunately, this year’s report reflects a downward trend in world politics, marked by an increase in geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty…no wonder then that many governments are rethinking their international engagement,” Christoph Heusgen, chairman of the MSC, wrote in the foreword of the report. However, he also noted that “while ‘de-risking’ in various ways is a necessary response to a changing and more dangerous geopolitical environment, a stronger focus on the relative gains of cooperation risks undermining the absolute benefits of cooperation.” “We must avoid ending up in ever more lose-lose situations that come with the fragmenting global order,” Heusgen wrote. The MSC chairman, on Tuesday (Feb 13), said that he hoped that the leaders and representatives from various countries would discuss these conflicts as well as others which are receiving less attention including the 10-month-old war in Sudan. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | What Munich Security Index says about India's threat perceptions

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