<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country.&nbsp;PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip where he received a grand welcome from the island nation’s Prime Minister James Marape.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
As the Indian PM&nbsp;landed in Papua New Guinea, the country's premier was at the airport to receive him and even appeared to touch his feet in the typical Indian way of showing respect to elders.&nbsp;PM Modi&nbsp;arrived&nbsp;just after 10:00 pm (local time) in the capital Port Moresby.<br />
<br />
The video shows Modi walking down the ladder of the aircraft which was laid with a red carpet.<br />
<br />
As the Modi&nbsp;walked towards him on the tarmac, the PNG PM his shook hands, hugged him, and held his hand before moving down to touch the feet of the Indian leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM&nbsp;stopped him midway, as sounds of what appeared to be firecrackers or a gun salute were heard in the background. He then patted the back of Marape and hugged him again, before greeting other officials who were present to greet him.</p>

<p>The Indian PM was&nbsp;welcomed&nbsp;by a 19-gun&nbsp;salute and a Guard of Honour, as well as&nbsp;traditional dancers.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Papua New Guinea PM touches the feet of PM Modi as he lands in the country for a historic visit<br />
<br />
India was one of the first countries to send Covid-19 vaccines to the Pacific island nation.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PapuaNewGuinea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PapuaNewGuinea</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Modi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Modi</a> <a href="https://t.co/bTaAMGTpP1">pic.twitter.com/bTaAMGTpP1</a></p>
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<p>Upon his arrival, the Indian PM also took to Twitter and thanked PM&nbsp;Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming him. "I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India’s ties with this great nation during my visit," wrote PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also&nbsp;took a moment to interact with the people from the Indian diaspora&nbsp;who were waiting for his arrival in the island nation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome. <a href="https://t.co/K1BT4RGe7B">pic.twitter.com/K1BT4RGe7B</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1660274750680346624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The Indian&nbsp;community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome," said PM Modi, about the welcome by the Indian community in the island nation.<br />
<br />
"The visit underscores the close friendship of India with the Pacific Island countries," said the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;The Indian PM is visiting the island nation for the third summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation&nbsp;(FIPIC) which he will jointly host with his PNG counterpart on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
During his visit to the island nation, Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who arrived earlier on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi will then leave for Australia where he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney. However, the Australian leader&nbsp;will be absent from the Pacific summit after United States President Joe Biden&nbsp;cut short his diplomatic tour over US debt crisis talks. Quad summit in Australia was, cancelled as Biden rescheduled his plans and the leaders of the four countries - India, the US, Australia and Japan - met in Hiroshima.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile,&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to represent Washington in place of Biden for a parallel summit in Papua New Guinea with Marape and Pacific leaders on Monday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21), arrived in Papua New Guinea marking the beginning of the second half of his three-nation visit and what is the first visit by an Indian PM to the island country. PM Modi travelled to Papua New Guinea on a historic trip where he received a grand welcome from the island nation’s Prime Minister James Marape. As the Indian PM landed in Papua New Guinea, the country's premier was at the airport to receive him and even appeared to touch his feet in the typical Indian way of showing respect to elders. PM Modi arrived just after 10:00 pm (local time) in the capital Port Moresby. The video shows Modi walking down the ladder of the aircraft which was laid with a red carpet. As the Modi walked towards him on the tarmac, the PNG PM his shook hands, hugged him, and held his hand before moving down to touch the feet of the Indian leader. The Indian PM stopped him midway, as sounds of what appeared to be firecrackers or a gun salute were heard in the background. He then patted the back of Marape and hugged him again, before greeting other officials who were present to greet him. The Indian PM was welcomed by a 19-gun salute and a Guard of Honour, as well as traditional dancers. Papua New Guinea PM touches the feet of PM Modi as he lands in the country for a historic visit India was one of the first countries to send Covid-19 vaccines to the Pacific island nation.#NarendraModi #PapuaNewGuinea #Modi pic.twitter.com/bTaAMGTpP1 — WION (@WIONews) May 21, 2023 × Upon his arrival, the Indian PM also took to Twitter and thanked PM Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming him. "I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India’s ties with this great nation during my visit," wrote PM Modi. PM Modi also took a moment to interact with the people from the Indian diaspora who were waiting for his arrival in the island nation. The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome. pic.twitter.com/K1BT4RGe7B — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2023 × "The Indian community in Papua New Guinea came in large numbers and showed remarkable affection. Thankful to them for the memorable welcome," said PM Modi, about the welcome by the Indian community in the island nation. "The visit underscores the close friendship of India with the Pacific Island countries," said the Ministry of External Affairs. The Indian PM is visiting the island nation for the third summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) which he will jointly host with his PNG counterpart on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape. FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. During his visit to the island nation, Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who arrived earlier on Sunday. PM Modi will then leave for Australia where he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney. However, the Australian leader will be absent from the Pacific summit after United States President Joe Biden cut short his diplomatic tour over US debt crisis talks. Quad summit in Australia was, cancelled as Biden rescheduled his plans and the leaders of the four countries - India, the US, Australia and Japan - met in Hiroshima. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to represent Washington in place of Biden for a parallel summit in Papua New Guinea with Marape and Pacific leaders on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | As Indian PM Modi lands, Papua New Guinea PM touches his feet

<p>A major whale vomit&nbsp;(ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities&nbsp;seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bust was conducted by the&nbsp;Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the&nbsp;Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18.</p>

<p>Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI&nbsp;informed in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-whales-help-store-planet-heating-carbon-emissions-544848"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-whales-help-store-planet-heating-carbon-emissions-544848/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

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<p>The smuggling of&nbsp;whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around&nbsp;&nbsp;40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs&nbsp;54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In September last year,&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of&nbsp;ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/megalophobia-activated-giant-whale-sinks-44ft-boat-in-pacific-ocean-574543"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean</strong></a></p>

<p>In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;ambergris?</strong></h2>

<p>Generally referred to as whale vomit,&nbsp;ambergris is derived from&nbsp;old French words<strong>&nbsp;</strong>'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the&nbsp;ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent.</p>

<p>The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the&nbsp;&nbsp;Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whales-can-help-fight-the-climate-change-scientists-say-544934"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.

A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The bust was conducted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18. Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI informed in a statement. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions × The smuggling of whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around 40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs 54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast. Previous instances In September last year, Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore). ALSO READ | Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city. What is ambergris? Generally referred to as whale vomit, ambergris is derived from old French words 'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber. A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent. The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. ALSO READ | Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Whale vomit worth $3.8 million seized in Tamil Nadu, five smugglers arrested

<p>On the sidelines of the G7 summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida. The duo&nbsp;discussed India's G20 presidency as well as Japan's G7 presidency. In other news, Moscow launched yet another overnight attack on the capital city of Kyiv. The military officials in Ukraine said air defence system remained active but debris led to fire on the roof of one of the residential buildings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288"><strong>PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima</strong></a></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20).&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/20/353033-pm-modi-in-hiroshima.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298"><strong>Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</strong></a></p>

<p>Another 7.1-magnitude earthquake rocked east of New Caledonia Saturday in the Pacific Ocean, the US Geological Survey said. This comes a day after a major quake of magnitude 7.7 hit the same area.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/20/353039-untitled-design-2023-05-19t092912097.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attack-on-kyiv-overnight-air-defence-remains-active-594323"><strong>Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active</strong></a></p>

<p>Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building&nbsp;roof caught fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/16/352040-2023-05-16t025554z1lynxmpej4f031rtroptp4ukraine-crisis-attack-kyiv.JPG?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-biden-looks-forward-to-meeting-ukraines-zelensky-says-white-house-594309"><strong>G7 Summit: Biden 'looks forward' to meeting Ukraine's Zelensky, says White House</strong></a></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden "looks forward" to holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Hiroshima, stated the White House on Saturday, confirming the meeting of the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/20/353046-untitled-design-2023-05-20t084717032.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistani-police-besiege-imran-khans-home-as-deadline-for-him-to-hand-over-suspects-expires-594333"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistani police besiege Imran Khan's home as deadline for him to hand over suspects expires</strong></a></p>

<p>Pakistani police kept up their siege around the home of Imran Khan as a 24-hour deadline given to the former premier to hand over suspects allegedly sheltered inside expired on Thursday.</p>

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On the sidelines of the G7 summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida. The duo discussed India's G20 presidency as well as Japan's G7 presidency.

On the sidelines of the G7 summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida. The duo discussed India's G20 presidency as well as Japan's G7 presidency. In other news, Moscow launched yet another overnight attack on the capital city of Kyiv. The military officials in Ukraine said air defence system remained active but debris led to fire on the roof of one of the residential buildings. Click on headlines to read more: PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20). Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued Another 7.1-magnitude earthquake rocked east of New Caledonia Saturday in the Pacific Ocean, the US Geological Survey said. This comes a day after a major quake of magnitude 7.7 hit the same area. Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building roof caught fire. G7 Summit: Biden 'looks forward' to meeting Ukraine's Zelensky, says White House United States President Joe Biden "looks forward" to holding talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Hiroshima, stated the White House on Saturday, confirming the meeting of the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit. WATCH | Pakistani police besiege Imran Khan's home as deadline for him to hand over suspects expires Pakistani police kept up their siege around the home of Imran Khan as a 24-hour deadline given to the former premier to hand over suspects allegedly sheltered inside expired on Thursday. ×

Morning news brief: Modi meets Kishida in Hiroshima, Kyiv faces overnight attacks, and more

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20).</p>

<p>In a tweet, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated, “PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep-rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a productive meeting with <a href="https://twitter.com/President_KR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@President_KR</a> Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors. <a href="https://t.co/pkU5qEVzO6">pic.twitter.com/pkU5qEVzO6</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1659741815606738950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The prime minister also held talks&nbsp;with Vietnam's Pham Minh Chinh and discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendly relations, especially in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Ministers <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and Pham Minh Chinh held talks in Hiroshima. They discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendship, particularly in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. <a href="https://t.co/9bsdWS1MHO">pic.twitter.com/9bsdWS1MHO</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1659763278686588928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Propelling - ties to new levels. Wide-ranging talks between PM @narendramodi and PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted.</p>

<p>"Leaders discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, defence, building resilient supply chains, energy, science &amp; technology, human resource development, culture &amp; people to people ties," it stated.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi at G7 Summit</strong><br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during which the two leaders discussed ways to grow India-Japan friendship across various sectors including trade, economy and culture.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288">PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima</a></p>

<p>The prime minister had stated, "I congratulate you on the successful presidency of G7. I also want to thank you for inviting India to the G7 Summit. Your (PM Kishida) visit to India was a memorable one."<br />
<br />
"It is a delightful moment for me as the Bodhi tree I gifted you has been planted by you in Hiroshima, I believe India-Japan relations will grow with the growth of this tree," he added.<br />
<br />
The Indian prime minister also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima and said that even today the world is frightened when they hear the name of 'Hiroshima'. "I got the opportunity to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi during my visit to Japan for the G7 Summit," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit</strong></p>

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<p><br />
He added that Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima will propagate the idea of non-violence. "It is a great moment for me to know that the Bodhi tree that I gifted to the Japanese PM has been planted here in Hiroshima so that people can understand the importance of peace when they come here. I pay my respect to Mahatma Gandhi,” he said.<br />
<br />
Later in the day, PM Modi will participate in the G7 grouping's annual summit. The three-day summit will end on Sunday (May 21). Indian prime minister will also attend the Quad leaders' meeting to be held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.<br />
<br />
The prime minister will also attend the working session of G7 and hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.<br />
<br />
This year, Japan is hosting the G7 Summit and India is attending as a guest country. G7 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meetings with South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on Saturday (May 20). In a tweet, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated, “PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep-rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors.” PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with @President_KR Yoon Suk Yeol. India and the Republic of Korea share a warm friendship and deep rooted cultural linkages. Today’s talks focused on ways to further cement this friendship in key developmental sectors. pic.twitter.com/pkU5qEVzO6 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2023 × The prime minister also held talks with Vietnam's Pham Minh Chinh and discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendly relations, especially in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. Prime Ministers @narendramodi and Pham Minh Chinh held talks in Hiroshima. They discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendship, particularly in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence. pic.twitter.com/9bsdWS1MHO — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2023 × "Propelling - ties to new levels. Wide-ranging talks between PM @narendramodi and PM Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) tweeted. "Leaders discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, defence, building resilient supply chains, energy, science & technology, human resource development, culture & people to people ties," it stated. PM Modi at G7 Summit Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during which the two leaders discussed ways to grow India-Japan friendship across various sectors including trade, economy and culture. ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7 in Hiroshima The prime minister had stated, "I congratulate you on the successful presidency of G7. I also want to thank you for inviting India to the G7 Summit. Your (PM Kishida) visit to India was a memorable one." "It is a delightful moment for me as the Bodhi tree I gifted you has been planted by you in Hiroshima, I believe India-Japan relations will grow with the growth of this tree," he added. The Indian prime minister also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima and said that even today the world is frightened when they hear the name of 'Hiroshima'. "I got the opportunity to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi during my visit to Japan for the G7 Summit," he stated. WATCH | G7 leaders reach Hiroshima in Japan ahead of the official G7 Summit He added that Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima will propagate the idea of non-violence. "It is a great moment for me to know that the Bodhi tree that I gifted to the Japanese PM has been planted here in Hiroshima so that people can understand the importance of peace when they come here. I pay my respect to Mahatma Gandhi,” he said. Later in the day, PM Modi will participate in the G7 grouping's annual summit. The three-day summit will end on Sunday (May 21). Indian prime minister will also attend the Quad leaders' meeting to be held on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. The prime minister will also attend the working session of G7 and hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This year, Japan is hosting the G7 Summit and India is attending as a guest country. G7 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

G7 Summit: India's PM Modi holds bilateral talks with leaders of South Korea, Vietnam

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<p>Banned by the government, popular mobile game Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) is set to make a comeback in the Indian market on a three-month trial run. Krafton, the South Korean developer of the battle royale game said it had secured approval from the Indian authorities to resume the game and its related operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BGMI was banned in July 2022 by New Delhi citing security concerns. However, according to news reports, Krafton managed to receive the approval after months of engagement with the government, Though some restrictions remain on the app, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, India’s deputy IT minister said the game had&nbsp;been granted a “trial approval” for three months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will keep a close watch on other issues of user harm, addiction etc in next 3 months before a final decision is taken,” Chandrasekhar was quoted as saying by TechCrunch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bgmi-the-indian-version-of-pubg-mobile-banned-in-india-501661"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'BGMI' the Indian version of PUBG Mobile banned in India?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Grateful to the Indian government:&nbsp;Krafton</strong></h2>

<p>Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO of Krafton, Inc. India expressed gratitude towards the government for allowing the popular game, back in the market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are highly grateful to the Indian authorities for allowing us to resume operations of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). We would like to extend our gratitude to our Indian gaming community for their support and patience over the past few months."</p>

<p>"At Krafton, Inc., we are deeply committed to the Indian gaming ecosystem. Our approach has always been India-first, which serves as the foundation of all our efforts," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Vibhor Kukreti, head of government affairs at Krafton who engaged with New Delhi said Krafton was a responsible organisation and that the company will take necessary steps to facilitate a proper gaming ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Krafton, Inc. is a responsible South Korean organization that abides by the law and has put in place several measures to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. We work tirelessly to ensure that India takes the lead in this domain by embracing innovative practices in collaboration with the gaming ecosystem to support, sustain and promote its growth," said Kukreti.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/google-blocks-kraftons-game-after-indian-governments-order-501657" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Google blocks Krafton's game after Indian government's order</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, Krafton launched BGMI in India after its previous offering&nbsp;PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) was banned in India as China's Tencent held the publishing rights for it. PUBG was one of the biggest games in India with over 50 million monthly active users before the government brought the sledgehammer on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Banned by the government, popular mobile game Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) is set to make a comeback in the Indian market on a three-month trial run. Krafton, the South Korean developer of the battle royale game said it had secured approval from the Indian authorities to resume the game and its related operations.

Banned by the government, popular mobile game Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) is set to make a comeback in the Indian market on a three-month trial run. Krafton, the South Korean developer of the battle royale game said it had secured approval from the Indian authorities to resume the game and its related operations. BGMI was banned in July 2022 by New Delhi citing security concerns. However, according to news reports, Krafton managed to receive the approval after months of engagement with the government, Though some restrictions remain on the app, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, India’s deputy IT minister said the game had been granted a “trial approval” for three months. “We will keep a close watch on other issues of user harm, addiction etc in next 3 months before a final decision is taken,” Chandrasekhar was quoted as saying by TechCrunch. WATCH | 'BGMI' the Indian version of PUBG Mobile banned in India? × Grateful to the Indian government: Krafton Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO of Krafton, Inc. India expressed gratitude towards the government for allowing the popular game, back in the market. "We are highly grateful to the Indian authorities for allowing us to resume operations of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). We would like to extend our gratitude to our Indian gaming community for their support and patience over the past few months." "At Krafton, Inc., we are deeply committed to the Indian gaming ecosystem. Our approach has always been India-first, which serves as the foundation of all our efforts," he added. Meanwhile, Vibhor Kukreti, head of government affairs at Krafton who engaged with New Delhi said Krafton was a responsible organisation and that the company will take necessary steps to facilitate a proper gaming ecosystem. "Krafton, Inc. is a responsible South Korean organization that abides by the law and has put in place several measures to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. We work tirelessly to ensure that India takes the lead in this domain by embracing innovative practices in collaboration with the gaming ecosystem to support, sustain and promote its growth," said Kukreti. ALSO READ | Google blocks Krafton's game after Indian government's order Notably, Krafton launched BGMI in India after its previous offering PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) was banned in India as China's Tencent held the publishing rights for it. PUBG was one of the biggest games in India with over 50 million monthly active users before the government brought the sledgehammer on it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gamers rejoice! Krafton's BGMI set to return after Indian government's 10 month ban

<p>India’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of India, on Friday said that it is withdrawing the currency note of Rs 2000 denomination from circulation. The Rs 2000 currency note&nbsp;had been introduced in November 2016 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government had demonetised&nbsp;the old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes in its crusade against black money. It was introduced&nbsp;primarily to meet the currency requirement of the economy in an expeditious manner after the withdrawal of legal tender status of all Rs500 and Rs1000 banknotes in circulation at that time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The objective of introducing Rs 2000 banknotes was met once banknotes in other denominations became available in adequate quantities&nbsp;and therefore, printing of ₹2000 banknotes was stopped in 2018-19, the RBI said in a press statement.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The central bank said that Rs 2,000 notes continue to remain legal tender, and added that&nbsp;they can either be deposited in bank accounts or exchanged by September 30, 2023.&nbsp;It also asked banks to provide deposit and/or exchange facilities for Rs 2,000 notes until the specified date.</p>

<p>“The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 bank notes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect.</p>

<h2><strong>India: Reserve Bank of India to withdraw ₹2000 notes from circulation</strong></h2>

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<p>The facility for the exchange of Rs 2,000 notes up to the limit of Rs 20,000 at a time will also be provided at the 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of the RBI having issue departments from May 23, said a press release issued by India's central bank.</p>

<p>“The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 banknotes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect.</p>

<p>The Rs 2,000 note was the highest denomination available in the Indian currency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In order to ensure operational convenience, and to avoid disruption of regular functioning of bank branches, exchange of Rs2000 banknotes with notes of other denominations can be made up to a limit of Rs20,000&nbsp;at a time at any bank starting from May 23, 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>Rs 2,000 currency note’s circulation had been dipping</strong></h2>

<p>The 2,000 banknotes had been dwindling in circulation for the past few years. According to the finance ministry's report tabled in Parliament in December 2022,&nbsp;the notes of Rs 2000 denomination in terms of value to the total notes in circulation dipped from 22.6 per cent (March 31, 2020) to 13.8 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022.</p>

<p>In a written reply, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said the share of Rs 500 denomination banknotes, in terms of total value in circulation increased from 29.7 per cent at the end of March 31, 2000, to 73.3 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022.</p>

<p>The RBI in&nbsp;its annual report in May had also noted a similar trend, saying, "At the end of March 2020, the number of Rs 2000 denomination notes in circulation stood at 274 million, accounting for 2.4 per cent of the total number of currency notes in circulation. The count declined to 245&nbsp;million or 2 per cent of the total banknotes in circulation as of March 2021 and further fell to 214 million or 1.6 per cent at the end of last fiscal year."</p>

<p>The currency in circulation includes banknotes and coins. Presently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues banknotes in denominations of Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 200, Rs 500, and Rs 2000. Coins in circulation comprise 50 paise and Re 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, and Rs 20 denominations.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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India’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of India, on Friday said that it is withdrawing the currency note of Rs 2000 denomination from circulation. The Rs 2000 currency note had been introduced in November 2016 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government had demonetised the old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes in its crusade against black money.

India’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of India, on Friday said that it is withdrawing the currency note of Rs 2000 denomination from circulation. The Rs 2000 currency note had been introduced in November 2016 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government had demonetised the old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes in its crusade against black money. It was introduced primarily to meet the currency requirement of the economy in an expeditious manner after the withdrawal of legal tender status of all Rs500 and Rs1000 banknotes in circulation at that time. The objective of introducing Rs 2000 banknotes was met once banknotes in other denominations became available in adequate quantities and therefore, printing of ₹2000 banknotes was stopped in 2018-19, the RBI said in a press statement. The central bank said that Rs 2,000 notes continue to remain legal tender, and added that they can either be deposited in bank accounts or exchanged by September 30, 2023. It also asked banks to provide deposit and/or exchange facilities for Rs 2,000 notes until the specified date. “The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 bank notes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect. India: Reserve Bank of India to withdraw ₹2000 notes from circulation The facility for the exchange of Rs 2,000 notes up to the limit of Rs 20,000 at a time will also be provided at the 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of the RBI having issue departments from May 23, said a press release issued by India's central bank. “The exchange facility for Rs 2,000 banknotes up to Rs 20,000 at a time would be available from May 23,” the RBI said in a statement, advising the banks to stop issuing Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes with immediate effect. The Rs 2,000 note was the highest denomination available in the Indian currency. In order to ensure operational convenience, and to avoid disruption of regular functioning of bank branches, exchange of Rs2000 banknotes with notes of other denominations can be made up to a limit of Rs20,000 at a time at any bank starting from May 23, 2023. Rs 2,000 currency note’s circulation had been dipping The 2,000 banknotes had been dwindling in circulation for the past few years. According to the finance ministry's report tabled in Parliament in December 2022, the notes of Rs 2000 denomination in terms of value to the total notes in circulation dipped from 22.6 per cent (March 31, 2020) to 13.8 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022. In a written reply, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said the share of Rs 500 denomination banknotes, in terms of total value in circulation increased from 29.7 per cent at the end of March 31, 2000, to 73.3 per cent at the end of March 31, 2022. The RBI in its annual report in May had also noted a similar trend, saying, "At the end of March 2020, the number of Rs 2000 denomination notes in circulation stood at 274 million, accounting for 2.4 per cent of the total number of currency notes in circulation. The count declined to 245 million or 2 per cent of the total banknotes in circulation as of March 2021 and further fell to 214 million or 1.6 per cent at the end of last fiscal year." The currency in circulation includes banknotes and coins. Presently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues banknotes in denominations of Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 200, Rs 500, and Rs 2000. Coins in circulation comprise 50 paise and Re 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10, and Rs 20 denominations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s central bank RBI withdraws Rs 2,000 currency note from circulation

<p>India's 6th and final submarine of Project 75, temporarily designated as Yard 11880, has commenced its maiden sea trials. This is a phase where the crucial systems (propulsion, weapons, sensors etc) of the diesel-electric attack submarine will be put to a series of tests under various operating conditions. The&nbsp;vessel is expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy in early 2024 and, once commissioned into the naval services, it'll be known as INS Vaghsheer. The commissioning of a vessel marks its formal induction into the Maritime force and it is there on known by its name with the INS prefix.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Built at Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, Vaghsheer is the sixth in the line of India's Kalvari-class submarines. Generally, the name of the first vessel in a series of ships of a similar kind is used to refer to the entire series. So far, the Indian Navy has commissioned INS Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela and Vagir.</p>

<p>Scorpene submarines are of French origin and are being built in India under technology transfer from the Naval Group of France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"MDL has 'delivered'&nbsp;three submarines of the Project – 75 in 24 months and the commencement of sea trials of the sixth submarine is a significant milestone. This is indicative of the boost towards Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)," said the Indian Navy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vaghsheer is named after the sandfish, a deep-sea predator of the Indian Ocean. Earlier, the Indian Navy operated a Russian-origin submarine by the name INS Vaghsheer. That vessel served the Navy from 1974 to 1997.</p>

<p>"Old warships never die" it is said in the Navy,&nbsp;in line with that, the legacy of the old vessels is resurrected by naming the latest ones after the ships of the bygone era.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, India operates seven Russian-origin Kilo class submarines, four German HDW submarines, five Scorpene submarines and the indigenous nuclear ballistic missile submarine INS Arihant.&nbsp;</p>

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India's 6th and final submarine of Project 75, temporarily designated as Yard 11880, has commenced its maiden sea trials. This is a phase where the crucial systems (propulsion, weapons, sensors etc) of the diesel-electric attack submarine will be put to a series of tests under various operating conditions.

India's 6th and final submarine of Project 75, temporarily designated as Yard 11880, has commenced its maiden sea trials. This is a phase where the crucial systems (propulsion, weapons, sensors etc) of the diesel-electric attack submarine will be put to a series of tests under various operating conditions. The vessel is expected to be delivered to the Indian Navy in early 2024 and, once commissioned into the naval services, it'll be known as INS Vaghsheer. The commissioning of a vessel marks its formal induction into the Maritime force and it is there on known by its name with the INS prefix. Built at Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, Vaghsheer is the sixth in the line of India's Kalvari-class submarines. Generally, the name of the first vessel in a series of ships of a similar kind is used to refer to the entire series. So far, the Indian Navy has commissioned INS Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela and Vagir. Scorpene submarines are of French origin and are being built in India under technology transfer from the Naval Group of France. "MDL has 'delivered' three submarines of the Project – 75 in 24 months and the commencement of sea trials of the sixth submarine is a significant milestone. This is indicative of the boost towards Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)," said the Indian Navy. Vaghsheer is named after the sandfish, a deep-sea predator of the Indian Ocean. Earlier, the Indian Navy operated a Russian-origin submarine by the name INS Vaghsheer. That vessel served the Navy from 1974 to 1997. "Old warships never die" it is said in the Navy, in line with that, the legacy of the old vessels is resurrected by naming the latest ones after the ships of the bygone era. At present, India operates seven Russian-origin Kilo class submarines, four German HDW submarines, five Scorpene submarines and the indigenous nuclear ballistic missile submarine INS Arihant. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's 6th Scorpene submarine 'Vaghsheer' starts maiden sea sortie; delivery to navy by early 2024

<p>The Indian state of Karnataka’s capital city of Bengaluru is infamous for traffic jams that last hours. However, with urban growth and the city becoming the new IT hub of the country, it is now home to offices of several big companies which have created an influx of people from across India and abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>While hours-long traffic jams, given the rapid increase in the population of the city and the immense pressure created on its infrastructure, are not uncommon&nbsp;but it was this one particular Tuesday morning rush hour that got on everyone’s nerves. Several people, who were on their way to work, claimed that they were forced to leave their vehicles in the middle of the road and even go back home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sometime later,&nbsp;the Bengaluru City Traffic Police took to Twitter and reported that a truck collision caused the massive tree to fall on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and asked civilians to take an alternative route until the sluggish traffic problem was resolved.</p>

<p>“Slow moving traffic due to a HTV breakdown in service road from 27th main towards Ibbalur. It will be moved shortly. Kindly co-operate,” the city’s traffic police wrote on Twitter.<br />
<br />
Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sujeetha Salman also took to the social media platform and explained the situation.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A truck hit a tree near the military gate of the service road near Ibbalur on the Outer Ring Road and the tree fell down causing traffic congestion, the motorists coming from Silk Board towards Ibbulur Junction are hereby requested to move on an alternate road route. <a href="https://t.co/54vTYiVQBB">pic.twitter.com/54vTYiVQBB</a></p>
— Sujeetha Salman , IPS (@DCPSouthTrBCP) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCPSouthTrBCP/status/1658340697664262145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“A truck hit a tree near the military gate of the service road near Ibbalur on the Outer Ring Road and the tree fell down causing traffic congestion, the motorists coming from Silk Board towards Ibbulur Junction are hereby requested to move on an alternate road route.”</p>

<h2><strong>How did the people react?</strong></h2>

<p>In the midst of this chaos, many frustrated locals took to social media and complained about the city’s broken traffic management system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One user wrote, “Congratulations @blrcitytraffic for this massive traffic mismanagement… its been 3 hours… stuck near Silk board Worst traffic this far. High time that IT cos. and Tech startups start looking for alternative cities. #Bengaluru #bangaloretraffic”.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/blrcitytraffic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@blrcitytraffic</a> for this massive traffic mismanagement… its been 3 hours… stuck near Silk board Worst traffic this far. High time that IT cos. and Tech startups start looking for alternative cities. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengaluru</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bangaloretraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bangaloretraffic</a> <a href="https://t.co/i26GdVFIWL">pic.twitter.com/i26GdVFIWL</a></p>
— Devam Shah (@Dr_infosecurity) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_infosecurity/status/1658364111510704128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While another frustrated local wrote, “If traffic police concentrate on traffic management rather than hiding behind trees or pillars to collect fines, these types of cases would not occur.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, others expressed their disappointment at how this could be the new normal for the city. “I am surprised how getting stuck in immovable traffic for over 150 mins to cover a 15-18 km distance is considered normal in Bangalore. We get accustomed easily, I guess. Just sad!”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am surprised how getting stuck in immovable traffic for over 150 mins to cover a 15-18 km distance is considered normal in Bangalore. We get accustomed easily I guess. Just sad! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bangaloretraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bangaloretraffic</a> <a href="https://t.co/mQFnmDyoEe">pic.twitter.com/mQFnmDyoEe</a></p>
— khyati shukla (@KyaShukla) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyaShukla/status/1658333469049585664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Work from Road’&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>One user “thanked” the traffic and wrote about how they got so much done, “Thanks Silk board traffic! Completed pending work, made some calls, did my meditation, Emptied downloads and recycle bin folders. And now thinking what else can I do stuck in this traffic. 1hr journey from Bommanahalli to Silk board signal.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks Silk board traffic!<br />
Completed pending work, made some calls, did my meditation,<br />
Emptied downloads and recycle bin folders. And now thinking what else can I do stuck in this traffic.<br />
1hr journey from Bommanahalli to Silk board signal. 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Things_todo_in_bengalurutraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Things_todo_in_bengalurutraffic</a> <a href="https://t.co/Be1LXy810q">pic.twitter.com/Be1LXy810q</a></p>
— kiran k (@kiranks24) <a href="https://twitter.com/kiranks24/status/1658343171628101638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, a user shared a picture, which has since gone viral,&nbsp;showing&nbsp;a woman working on a Rapido bike, on her way to the office. This shot was reportedly taken along the Koramangala-Agara-Outer Ring Road which was referred to as a “Peak Bangalore moment,” as the image highlights the hustle culture of India’s Silicon Valley.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Peak Bangalore moment. Women working on a rapido bike ride to the office. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrafficJam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrafficJam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrafficAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrafficAlert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bangaloretraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bangaloretraffic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangalore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangalore</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/roadblock?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#roadblock</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/peakbangalore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#peakbangalore</a> <a href="https://t.co/bubbMj3Qbs">pic.twitter.com/bubbMj3Qbs</a></p>
— Nihar Lohiya (@nihar_lohiya) <a href="https://twitter.com/nihar_lohiya/status/1658344198360399873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Days after the incident, one user also shared the following meme, "Future Bengaluru - WFR (Work from Road)"</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FYI, Just for laughs<br />
Future Bengaluru - WFR (Work from Road) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeakBangalore?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeakBangalore</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengaluru</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OuterRingRoad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OuterRingRoad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Koramangala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Koramangala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SarjapurRoad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SarjapurRoad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IRR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EGL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EGL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indiranagar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indiranagar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SilkBoard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SilkBoard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrafficJam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrafficJam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/peakbengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#peakbengaluru</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WFR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WFR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Traffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Traffic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bangaloretraffic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bangaloretraffic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangalore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangalore</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/humour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#humour</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jokes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jokes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WFH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WFH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/END?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#END</a> <a href="https://t.co/UttzuObmO7">pic.twitter.com/UttzuObmO7</a></p>
— RoadBeku (@roadbeku) <a href="https://twitter.com/roadbeku/status/1659239746273509381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Indian state of Karnataka’s capital city of Bengaluru is infamous for traffic jams that last hours. However, with urban growth and the city becoming the new IT hub of the country, it is now home to offices of several big companies which have created an influx of people from across India and abroad.

The Indian state of Karnataka’s capital city of Bengaluru is infamous for traffic jams that last hours. However, with urban growth and the city becoming the new IT hub of the country, it is now home to offices of several big companies which have created an influx of people from across India and abroad. What happened? While hours-long traffic jams, given the rapid increase in the population of the city and the immense pressure created on its infrastructure, are not uncommon but it was this one particular Tuesday morning rush hour that got on everyone’s nerves. Several people, who were on their way to work, claimed that they were forced to leave their vehicles in the middle of the road and even go back home. Sometime later, the Bengaluru City Traffic Police took to Twitter and reported that a truck collision caused the massive tree to fall on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and asked civilians to take an alternative route until the sluggish traffic problem was resolved. “Slow moving traffic due to a HTV breakdown in service road from 27th main towards Ibbalur. It will be moved shortly. Kindly co-operate,” the city’s traffic police wrote on Twitter. Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sujeetha Salman also took to the social media platform and explained the situation. A truck hit a tree near the military gate of the service road near Ibbalur on the Outer Ring Road and the tree fell down causing traffic congestion, the motorists coming from Silk Board towards Ibbulur Junction are hereby requested to move on an alternate road route. pic.twitter.com/54vTYiVQBB — Sujeetha Salman , IPS (@DCPSouthTrBCP) May 16, 2023 × “A truck hit a tree near the military gate of the service road near Ibbalur on the Outer Ring Road and the tree fell down causing traffic congestion, the motorists coming from Silk Board towards Ibbulur Junction are hereby requested to move on an alternate road route.” How did the people react? In the midst of this chaos, many frustrated locals took to social media and complained about the city’s broken traffic management system. One user wrote, “Congratulations @blrcitytraffic for this massive traffic mismanagement… its been 3 hours… stuck near Silk board Worst traffic this far. High time that IT cos. and Tech startups start looking for alternative cities. #Bengaluru #bangaloretraffic”. Congratulations @blrcitytraffic for this massive traffic mismanagement… its been 3 hours… stuck near Silk board Worst traffic this far. High time that IT cos. and Tech startups start looking for alternative cities. #Bengaluru #bangaloretraffic pic.twitter.com/i26GdVFIWL — Devam Shah (@Dr_infosecurity) May 16, 2023 × While another frustrated local wrote, “If traffic police concentrate on traffic management rather than hiding behind trees or pillars to collect fines, these types of cases would not occur.” Meanwhile, others expressed their disappointment at how this could be the new normal for the city. “I am surprised how getting stuck in immovable traffic for over 150 mins to cover a 15-18 km distance is considered normal in Bangalore. We get accustomed easily, I guess. Just sad!” I am surprised how getting stuck in immovable traffic for over 150 mins to cover a 15-18 km distance is considered normal in Bangalore. We get accustomed easily I guess. Just sad! #bangaloretraffic pic.twitter.com/mQFnmDyoEe — khyati shukla (@KyaShukla) May 16, 2023 × ‘Work from Road’ One user “thanked” the traffic and wrote about how they got so much done, “Thanks Silk board traffic! Completed pending work, made some calls, did my meditation, Emptied downloads and recycle bin folders. And now thinking what else can I do stuck in this traffic. 1hr journey from Bommanahalli to Silk board signal.” Thanks Silk board traffic! Completed pending work, made some calls, did my meditation, Emptied downloads and recycle bin folders. And now thinking what else can I do stuck in this traffic. 1hr journey from Bommanahalli to Silk board signal. 🙏#Things_todo_in_bengalurutraffic pic.twitter.com/Be1LXy810q — kiran k (@kiranks24) May 16, 2023 × Meanwhile, a user shared a picture, which has since gone viral, showing a woman working on a Rapido bike, on her way to the office. This shot was reportedly taken along the Koramangala-Agara-Outer Ring Road which was referred to as a “Peak Bangalore moment,” as the image highlights the hustle culture of India’s Silicon Valley. Peak Bangalore moment. Women working on a rapido bike ride to the office. #TrafficJam #TrafficAlert #bangaloretraffic #Bangalore #roadblock #peakbangalore pic.twitter.com/bubbMj3Qbs — Nihar Lohiya (@nihar_lohiya) May 16, 2023 × Days after the incident, one user also shared the following meme, "Future Bengaluru - WFR (Work from Road)" FYI, Just for laughs Future Bengaluru - WFR (Work from Road) @PeakBangalore #Bengaluru #OuterRingRoad #Koramangala #BTM #SarjapurRoad #HSR #IRR #EGL #Indiranagar #SilkBoard #TrafficJam #peakbengaluru #WFR #Traffic #Jam #bangaloretraffic #Bangalore #BTP #humour #Jokes #WFH #END pic.twitter.com/UttzuObmO7 — RoadBeku (@roadbeku) May 18, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Work from Road’: Frustrated locals declare new trend in India’s Bengaluru

<p>Japanese Digital Minister Kono Taro on Thursday said that the government of Japan is seriously considering joining India's UPI payment system.<br />
<br />
Speaking with WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Minister Taro said, “Japan and India are trying to promote digital co-operation. We are serious about joining India's UPI payment system and also contemplating how we can mutually recognise EID, starting with co-operation to increase interoperability. G7 agrees to establish a new framework with a new secretariat on cross-border data flow and we are hoping that the Indian government will join this framework.”<br />
<br />
Talking about India's digital revolution, the Japanese minister stated that he is surprised to see India leapfrogging in this sector. Taro stated that UPI is a “very convenient system of payment” which “can increase interoperability between governments”. “It could be another standard of cross-border payment,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-jaishankar-flags-need-for-adherence-respect-for-constitution-of-the-oceans-unclos-591885">EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence to, respect for ‘constitution of the oceans’ UNCLOS</a></p>

<p><br />
The minister also spoke about artificial intelligence and the growing concerns and opportunities around it. He emphasised the need to regulate and curb fake news which is being circulated using AI.<br />
<br />
“AI is moving forward very fast. G7 is trying to set up a forum to discuss how we regulate and prevent malicious actions by some elements. Among democratic countries, AI is a great opportunity, but it carries some risks. We are worried about its influence on democracy. The global leaders need to come together and think how to regulate and curb fake news which is spread using AI tech.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Need to minimise impact of China's dictatorship</strong></h2>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Commenting on the increasing issue of hacking and China facing the allegation of sponsoring such attacks, Japanese Minister Taro said, “We just had our bi-elections at the national level and there were a lot of interventions amid the polls. We need to really be careful and come up with creative ideas to minimise the impact of meddling by dictatorship (of China).”<br />
<br />
He further appreciated the co-operation shared between India, Japan and the QUAD and hoped that the two nations with UPI economies can work together on digital payments.</p>

<p><b>WATCH |&nbsp;</b></p>

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<p>The Japanese minister further stated that QUAD is likely to become a much more important group in global politics. “QUAD is going to be more important and we need to increase trust among the four countries as well,” he said.<br />
<br />
He also said that the aggressive actions taken by the Chinese authorities in the Indian subcontinent are worrisome.<br />
<br />
“China has increased defence spending by 42-fold in the last 30 years. They are often violating territorial waters here as well. They have been doing the same thing at the Indian border also. We need to be very careful. QUAD is important to maintain peace in East Asia,” Minister Taro stated.</p>

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Japanese Digital Minister Kono Taro on Thursday said that the government of Japan is seriously considering joining India's UPI payment system. Speaking with WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Minister Taro said, “Japan and India are trying to promote digital co-operation.

Japanese Digital Minister Kono Taro on Thursday said that the government of Japan is seriously considering joining India's UPI payment system. Speaking with WION's correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Minister Taro said, “Japan and India are trying to promote digital co-operation. We are serious about joining India's UPI payment system and also contemplating how we can mutually recognise EID, starting with co-operation to increase interoperability. G7 agrees to establish a new framework with a new secretariat on cross-border data flow and we are hoping that the Indian government will join this framework.” Talking about India's digital revolution, the Japanese minister stated that he is surprised to see India leapfrogging in this sector. Taro stated that UPI is a “very convenient system of payment” which “can increase interoperability between governments”. “It could be another standard of cross-border payment,” he said. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence to, respect for ‘constitution of the oceans’ UNCLOS The minister also spoke about artificial intelligence and the growing concerns and opportunities around it. He emphasised the need to regulate and curb fake news which is being circulated using AI. “AI is moving forward very fast. G7 is trying to set up a forum to discuss how we regulate and prevent malicious actions by some elements. Among democratic countries, AI is a great opportunity, but it carries some risks. We are worried about its influence on democracy. The global leaders need to come together and think how to regulate and curb fake news which is spread using AI tech.” Need to minimise impact of China's dictatorship Commenting on the increasing issue of hacking and China facing the allegation of sponsoring such attacks, Japanese Minister Taro said, “We just had our bi-elections at the national level and there were a lot of interventions amid the polls. We need to really be careful and come up with creative ideas to minimise the impact of meddling by dictatorship (of China).” He further appreciated the co-operation shared between India, Japan and the QUAD and hoped that the two nations with UPI economies can work together on digital payments. WATCH | The Japanese minister further stated that QUAD is likely to become a much more important group in global politics. “QUAD is going to be more important and we need to increase trust among the four countries as well,” he said. He also said that the aggressive actions taken by the Chinese authorities in the Indian subcontinent are worrisome. “China has increased defence spending by 42-fold in the last 30 years. They are often violating territorial waters here as well. They have been doing the same thing at the Indian border also. We need to be very careful. QUAD is important to maintain peace in East Asia,” Minister Taro stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Exclusive | Japan considering joining India's UPI payment system, says Japanese Minister Kono Taro

<p>The police department in the Indian state of Assam has asked its officials to either lose weight in the next few months or leave the force. A top state police official stated that they will “professionally record” the body mass index (BMI) of all officers starting mid-August.</p>

<p>Officers falling under the "obese" category will then be given the opportunity to reduce weight till November or voluntarily retire.</p>

<p>Assam's director general of police GP Singh said that people suffering from medical conditions will then be exempted. In a tweet, Singh said that he will be the first officer in force to get his BMI recorded.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-most-divorces-arising-from-love-marriages-only-says-supreme-court-593337">India: Most divorces arising from love marriages only, says Supreme Court</a></p>

<p>“In line with directions of the Hon @CMOfficeAssam, @assampolice Hq has decided to go for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) of all Assam Police personnel including IPS/APS officers and all DEF/Bn/Organisations. We plan to give three months time to all Assam Police personnel including IPS &amp; APS officers till August 15th and then start BMI assessment in the next fifteen days. All those who are in obese (BMI 30+) category would be offered another three months time to reduce weight (till November End) and after that VRS option except those who have genuine medical reasons like hypothyroidism etc,” GP Singh tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In line with directions of the Hon <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeAssam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOfficeAssam</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/assampolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@assampolice</a> Hq has decided to go in for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) of all Assam Police personnel including IPS/APS officers and all DEF/Bn/Organisations.<br />
We plan to give three months time to all Assam…</p>
— GP Singh (@gpsinghips) <a href="https://twitter.com/gpsinghips/status/1658339455441453057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Habitual drinkers, physically unfit officers should opt for early retirement'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had a few weeks ago stated that around 300 police personnel deployed in the state would be asked to opt for early retirement because they were "habitual drinkers" and "physically unfit".</p>

<p>He stated that the process is part of an exercise to "cut the deadwood out of the police force". According to the studies, Indian police officers have to work long hours. Their working hours are irregular and they are not able to take proper rest or breaks.</p>

<p>In 2018, Karnataka state's reserve police officers had also faced similar demands. They were asked to either lose weight or else face suspension.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | India becomes home to nearly a fifth of humanity | WION Pulse</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking to the BBC, a top official had then stated that the decision was taken after several officers died because of "lifestyle-related diseases" like cardiac issues and diabetes in the last 18 months.</p>

<p>A person's BMI is calculated by dividing the weight of a person by the square of their height, and many doctors, insurers and health service providers use it around the world to decide whether a person is overweight, healthy or obese.</p>

<p>However, BMI is also highly controversial. Many experts have argued that using BMI to measure a person's health is flawed as it is unscientific, inaccurate, and designed for white, European men.&nbsp;</p>

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The police department in the Indian state of Assam has asked its officials to either lose weight in the next few months or leave the force. A top state police official stated that they will “professionally record” the body mass index (BMI) of all officers starting mid-August.

The police department in the Indian state of Assam has asked its officials to either lose weight in the next few months or leave the force. A top state police official stated that they will “professionally record” the body mass index (BMI) of all officers starting mid-August. Officers falling under the "obese" category will then be given the opportunity to reduce weight till November or voluntarily retire. Assam's director general of police GP Singh said that people suffering from medical conditions will then be exempted. In a tweet, Singh said that he will be the first officer in force to get his BMI recorded. ALSO READ | India: Most divorces arising from love marriages only, says Supreme Court “In line with directions of the Hon @CMOfficeAssam, @assampolice Hq has decided to go for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) of all Assam Police personnel including IPS/APS officers and all DEF/Bn/Organisations. We plan to give three months time to all Assam Police personnel including IPS & APS officers till August 15th and then start BMI assessment in the next fifteen days. All those who are in obese (BMI 30+) category would be offered another three months time to reduce weight (till November End) and after that VRS option except those who have genuine medical reasons like hypothyroidism etc,” GP Singh tweeted. In line with directions of the Hon @CMOfficeAssam , @assampolice Hq has decided to go in for professional recording of Body Mass Index (BMI) of all Assam Police personnel including IPS/APS officers and all DEF/Bn/Organisations. We plan to give three months time to all Assam… — GP Singh (@gpsinghips) May 16, 2023 × 'Habitual drinkers, physically unfit officers should opt for early retirement' Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had a few weeks ago stated that around 300 police personnel deployed in the state would be asked to opt for early retirement because they were "habitual drinkers" and "physically unfit". He stated that the process is part of an exercise to "cut the deadwood out of the police force". According to the studies, Indian police officers have to work long hours. Their working hours are irregular and they are not able to take proper rest or breaks. In 2018, Karnataka state's reserve police officers had also faced similar demands. They were asked to either lose weight or else face suspension. WATCH | India becomes home to nearly a fifth of humanity | WION Pulse Speaking to the BBC, a top official had then stated that the decision was taken after several officers died because of "lifestyle-related diseases" like cardiac issues and diabetes in the last 18 months. A person's BMI is calculated by dividing the weight of a person by the square of their height, and many doctors, insurers and health service providers use it around the world to decide whether a person is overweight, healthy or obese. However, BMI is also highly controversial. Many experts have argued that using BMI to measure a person's health is flawed as it is unscientific, inaccurate, and designed for white, European men. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Assam's police force asks officers to lose weight or quit job

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo&nbsp;holds the presidency this year. He will also travel to three countries in the span of four to five days from May 19 to May 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM is also expected to address sessions at the G7 on subjects like peace, stability and prosperity of a sustainable planet; food, fertiliser and energy security; health; gender equality; climate change and environment and so on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year’s summit of the group world’s most advanced economies will be focused on nuclear disarmament; economic resilience and security; regional issues; climate and energy; and food, health, and development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s participation at the G7 summit signals “increasing recognition” that New Delhi should be a part of any serious effort to resolve global challenges including those for peace, security, development and environmental preservation, said Foreign Secretary of India, Vinay Kwatra, in a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit including a meeting with his Japanese counterpart. He is also scheduled to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima.</p>

<p>PM Modi is set to leave for the four-day international visit where he will travel to three countries Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia where he will participate in meetings of three summits G7, Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), and Quad respectively.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Notably, the Indian PM is scheduled to have&nbsp;over 40 engagements with&nbsp;over two&nbsp;dozen world leaders in summits as well as&nbsp;bilateral meetings.</p>

<p>The Indian PM will then travel to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he will host the 3rd Summit of FIPIC jointly with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM&nbsp;Marape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Notably, Modi will be the first Indian PM to visit Papua New Guinea.</p>

<p>Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with the New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in Papua New Guinea. The Indian PM&nbsp;will then travel to Australia from May 22 to May 24 following an invitation from his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney for the Quad Leaders’ Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi will also hold a bilateral meeting with PM&nbsp;Albanese on May 24, marking his 5th meeting with the Australian counterpart this year. PM Modi will also interact with Australian CEOs and business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora at a community event in Sydney, said the MEA.&nbsp;<br />
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo holds the presidency this year.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Hiroshima, Japan for the Group of Seven (G7) Summit following an invitation by the Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as Tokyo holds the presidency this year. He will also travel to three countries in the span of four to five days from May 19 to May 24. The Indian PM is also expected to address sessions at the G7 on subjects like peace, stability and prosperity of a sustainable planet; food, fertiliser and energy security; health; gender equality; climate change and environment and so on. This year’s summit of the group world’s most advanced economies will be focused on nuclear disarmament; economic resilience and security; regional issues; climate and energy; and food, health, and development. India’s participation at the G7 summit signals “increasing recognition” that New Delhi should be a part of any serious effort to resolve global challenges including those for peace, security, development and environmental preservation, said Foreign Secretary of India, Vinay Kwatra, in a press conference. The Indian PM is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit including a meeting with his Japanese counterpart. He is also scheduled to unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima. PM Modi is set to leave for the four-day international visit where he will travel to three countries Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia where he will participate in meetings of three summits G7, Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), and Quad respectively. Notably, the Indian PM is scheduled to have over 40 engagements with over two dozen world leaders in summits as well as bilateral meetings. The Indian PM will then travel to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he will host the 3rd Summit of FIPIC jointly with Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, on May 22. He will also hold bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and PM Marape. FIPIC involves India and 14 Pacific Island Countries, namely, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Notably, Modi will be the first Indian PM to visit Papua New Guinea. Indian PM Modi will also hold his first meeting with the New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in Papua New Guinea. The Indian PM will then travel to Australia from May 22 to May 24 following an invitation from his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney for the Quad Leaders’ Summit. PM Modi will also hold a bilateral meeting with PM Albanese on May 24, marking his 5th meeting with the Australian counterpart this year. PM Modi will also interact with Australian CEOs and business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora at a community event in Sydney, said the MEA. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi's three nation visit to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia

<p>Indian government is keen to begin talks with the United Kingdom over repatriation of objects taken from the country during the colonial era beginning with “cooperation in manuscripts”, said a report in Politico citing an unnamed Indian government representative.</p>

<p>According to the representative, India's culture secretary Govind Mohan is focussed on the 'low-hanging fruits' first.</p>

<p>India has begun approaching countries that might have antiquities taken by force or looted during colonial times.</p>

<p>India is hoping for “a process of retrieval of antiquities through bilateral cooperation and partnership, in a manner consistent with existing international arrangements,” said the representative as quoted by Politico.</p>

<p>Whenever there is talk of looting of colonial-era artifacts and gems, the legendary Kohinoor diamond is almost always mentioned. The priceless gem, once the biggest diamond in the world, was given to Queen Victoria by East India Company after it annexed Punjab and is now among Britain's crown jewels.</p>

<p>During his coronation earlier this month, King Charles III eschewed it for other gems after India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said it "brings back painful memories of&nbsp;the colonial past".</p>

<p>According to a report by Politico last week, India wants "a suitable dialogue" and "result-oriented conversation around the Kohinoor diamond and about return of other objects taken from temples".</p>

<h2><strong>Not the first time</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first time a country would be in dialogue with Britain about colonial-era artifacts.</p>

<p>The British Museum is currently in talks with Greece for possible sharing of Parthenon marbles.</p>

<p>India and the UK are currently negotiating a trade deal. It is expected that UK PM Rishi Sunak would meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of G7 Summit. It is expected that both leaders will talk about the deal and other bilateral issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has also placed the repatriation of antiquities on this agenda in G20. India holds presidency of G20 summit this year.</p>

<p>“India remains committed to work with international partners in building holistic and cooperative ties,” said the Indian government representative, “in which our shared history is an important pillar, but not the only one.”</p>

<p>The representative was quoted by the Politico.<br />
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Indian government is keen to begin talks with the United Kingdom over repatriation of objects taken from the country during the colonial era beginning with “cooperation in manuscripts”, said a report in Politico citing an unnamed Indian government representative.

Indian government is keen to begin talks with the United Kingdom over repatriation of objects taken from the country during the colonial era beginning with “cooperation in manuscripts”, said a report in Politico citing an unnamed Indian government representative. According to the representative, India's culture secretary Govind Mohan is focussed on the 'low-hanging fruits' first. India has begun approaching countries that might have antiquities taken by force or looted during colonial times. India is hoping for “a process of retrieval of antiquities through bilateral cooperation and partnership, in a manner consistent with existing international arrangements,” said the representative as quoted by Politico. Whenever there is talk of looting of colonial-era artifacts and gems, the legendary Kohinoor diamond is almost always mentioned. The priceless gem, once the biggest diamond in the world, was given to Queen Victoria by East India Company after it annexed Punjab and is now among Britain's crown jewels. During his coronation earlier this month, King Charles III eschewed it for other gems after India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said it "brings back painful memories of the colonial past". According to a report by Politico last week, India wants "a suitable dialogue" and "result-oriented conversation around the Kohinoor diamond and about return of other objects taken from temples". Not the first time This is not the first time a country would be in dialogue with Britain about colonial-era artifacts. The British Museum is currently in talks with Greece for possible sharing of Parthenon marbles. India and the UK are currently negotiating a trade deal. It is expected that UK PM Rishi Sunak would meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of G7 Summit. It is expected that both leaders will talk about the deal and other bilateral issues. India has also placed the repatriation of antiquities on this agenda in G20. India holds presidency of G20 summit this year. “India remains committed to work with international partners in building holistic and cooperative ties,” said the Indian government representative, “in which our shared history is an important pillar, but not the only one.” The representative was quoted by the Politico. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India keen to talk with Britain for return of colonial era objects

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<p><strong>Man City vs Real Madrid UEFA Champions League semifinal:&nbsp;</strong>Manchester City and Real Madrid will lock horns again after a 1-1 draw in the previous match. The first leg of the semifinal match ended with both teams in neutral position. However, Manchester City has the advantage of playing at Etihad Stadium. Both seek to advance to the UEFA Champions League final. Manchester City's presence in the FA Cup final increases their chances of winning. The team aims to achieve the historic treble and leave a mark in football history. Meanwhile, Real Madrid lost the La Liga trophy to their local rivals Barcelona. Thus, their sole attention is on the Champions League.</p>

<p>The two heavyweights, Real Madrid and Manchester City, played out a 1-1 draw at San Tiago Bernabeu in the first leg. Kevin De Bruyne cancelled Vinicus Jr's stunning effort. Furthermore, Manchester City has only lost one of their last five games with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.</p>

<h2><strong>Man City vs Real Madrid: Match Details</strong></h2>

<p>The UEFA Champions League semifinal between Manchester City and Real Madrid will take place on May 18, 2023, at 12:30 AM IST. Etihad Stadium will host this most-awaited match.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Man City vs Real Madrid: Live Streaming Details</strong></h2>

<p><strong>How to watch Man City vs Real Madrid live in India?</strong></p>

<p>In India, football fans who wish to catch the live match between Man City and Real Madrid can watch it on Sony Sports Network. Sony LIV &amp; Jio TV will also broadcast the match live on their streaming platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Where can I watch Man City vs Real Madrid match live in the UK?</strong></p>

<p>In the United Kingdom, the UEFA Champions League 2023 match between Man City and Real Madrid can be watched live on BT Sport Channel and BT Sport App.</p>

<p><strong>How to watch UEFA Champions League match live in the US?</strong></p>

<p>CNS Sports Network, CBS, Univision, fuboTV, and Paramount+ will live telecast the Man City vs Real Madrid UEFA Champions League semifinal.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Man City vs Real Madrid: Predicted Lineup</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Manchester City:</strong></p>

<p>Ederson; Walker, Stones, Dias, Akanji; De Bruyne, Rodri, B. Silva; Gundogan, Haaland, Grealish</p>

<p><strong>Real Madrid:</strong></p>

<p>Courtouis; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Valverde, Kroos, Modric; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr.</p>

<h2><strong>Man City vs Real Madrid: Head-to-head stats</strong></h2>

<p>Matches: 9</p>

<p>Manchester City: 3</p>

<p>Draws: 3</p>

<p>Real Madrid: 3</p>


Man City vs Real Madrid UEFA Champions League semifinal: Manchester City and Real Madrid will lock horns again after a 1-1 draw in the previous match. The first leg of the semifinal match ended with both teams in neutral position.

Man City vs Real Madrid UEFA Champions League semifinal: Manchester City and Real Madrid will lock horns again after a 1-1 draw in the previous match. The first leg of the semifinal match ended with both teams in neutral position. However, Manchester City has the advantage of playing at Etihad Stadium. Both seek to advance to the UEFA Champions League final. Manchester City's presence in the FA Cup final increases their chances of winning. The team aims to achieve the historic treble and leave a mark in football history. Meanwhile, Real Madrid lost the La Liga trophy to their local rivals Barcelona. Thus, their sole attention is on the Champions League. The two heavyweights, Real Madrid and Manchester City, played out a 1-1 draw at San Tiago Bernabeu in the first leg. Kevin De Bruyne cancelled Vinicus Jr's stunning effort. Furthermore, Manchester City has only lost one of their last five games with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. Man City vs Real Madrid: Match Details The UEFA Champions League semifinal between Manchester City and Real Madrid will take place on May 18, 2023, at 12:30 AM IST. Etihad Stadium will host this most-awaited match. Man City vs Real Madrid: Live Streaming Details How to watch Man City vs Real Madrid live in India? In India, football fans who wish to catch the live match between Man City and Real Madrid can watch it on Sony Sports Network. Sony LIV & Jio TV will also broadcast the match live on their streaming platform. Where can I watch Man City vs Real Madrid match live in the UK? In the United Kingdom, the UEFA Champions League 2023 match between Man City and Real Madrid can be watched live on BT Sport Channel and BT Sport App. How to watch UEFA Champions League match live in the US? CNS Sports Network, CBS, Univision, fuboTV, and Paramount+ will live telecast the Man City vs Real Madrid UEFA Champions League semifinal. Man City vs Real Madrid: Predicted Lineup Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Stones, Dias, Akanji; De Bruyne, Rodri, B. Silva; Gundogan, Haaland, Grealish Real Madrid: Courtouis; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Valverde, Kroos, Modric; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr. Man City vs Real Madrid: Head-to-head stats Matches: 9 Manchester City: 3 Draws: 3 Real Madrid: 3

Man City vs Real Madrid: How & where to watch UEFA Champions League 2022-23 semifinal live in India, UK & USA

<p>Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people. Barely a few days after being tranquillized, hauled onto a truck and then transported a distance of more than 80 kilometres, the wild tusker has again begun to venture close to human settlements - now in the adjoining state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Arikomban’ (translates to ‘rice-tusker’) in Malayalam, earned the moniker for his raids on rice shops and settlements in the Idukki district in Kerala, where he originally belonged. There were also some claims that the wild tusker had fatally attacked a handful of individuals there, thus prompting those living in the region to demand for his relocation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is often reported that wild elephants venture out into towns, raid crops and cause damage to property. However, this points to the larger issue of habitat destruction, towns and settlements coming up on forest fringes and natural vegetation not being available in abundance for wildlife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While it is being claimed that this particular elephant killed a few people, there are no clear indications in this regard. However, the demands of the local people were taken cognisance of and the Kerala Forest Department planned to capture the wild tusker and turn him into a trained semi-wild elephant, a gruesome and painful process that takes months. Vehement opposition from activists and a court decision ensured that the only way ahead was to go for a translocation.</p>

<p>Finally, the tusker was translocated from Chinnakanal in Kerala's Idukki district to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (ferried a distance of nearly 80 km), close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The entire operation was carried out by the Kerala forest department, with police vehicles ensuring the smooth movement of the convoy and avoiding any untoward incidents along the way. While a hostile reaction was anticipated, those living in the regions close to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (where the elephant was being released) had even performed a traditional 'Puja' to welcome the new inhabitant of the wild.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barely a few days after being released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the pachyderm ventured into the estates in the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, Forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location real-time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, during the wee hours, the tusker got back to his old ways and ventured close to a ration shop in Megamalai and attempted to break open a window, possibly to get hold of the rice stored within. Later, the tusker is said to have ventured back into the forest. Images from the area showed the tusker's giant footprints in the vicinity of the settlements and the ration shop. Carrying on the moniker from Kerala, those in Tamil Nadu refer to the wild tusker as 'Arisi Komban' (translates to rice tusker in Tamil).</p>

<p>Forest Officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS. Those staying in the region have been advised to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. We have forest staffers who are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official added.</p>

<p>Since the time the tusker ventured into the Megamalai region, the district administration has temporarily suspended tourism and increased the number of Police personnel at the checkposts that lead to Megamalai.<br />
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Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people.

Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people. Barely a few days after being tranquillized, hauled onto a truck and then transported a distance of more than 80 kilometres, the wild tusker has again begun to venture close to human settlements - now in the adjoining state of Tamil Nadu. ‘Arikomban’ (translates to ‘rice-tusker’) in Malayalam, earned the moniker for his raids on rice shops and settlements in the Idukki district in Kerala, where he originally belonged. There were also some claims that the wild tusker had fatally attacked a handful of individuals there, thus prompting those living in the region to demand for his relocation. It is often reported that wild elephants venture out into towns, raid crops and cause damage to property. However, this points to the larger issue of habitat destruction, towns and settlements coming up on forest fringes and natural vegetation not being available in abundance for wildlife. While it is being claimed that this particular elephant killed a few people, there are no clear indications in this regard. However, the demands of the local people were taken cognisance of and the Kerala Forest Department planned to capture the wild tusker and turn him into a trained semi-wild elephant, a gruesome and painful process that takes months. Vehement opposition from activists and a court decision ensured that the only way ahead was to go for a translocation. Finally, the tusker was translocated from Chinnakanal in Kerala's Idukki district to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (ferried a distance of nearly 80 km), close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The entire operation was carried out by the Kerala forest department, with police vehicles ensuring the smooth movement of the convoy and avoiding any untoward incidents along the way. While a hostile reaction was anticipated, those living in the regions close to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (where the elephant was being released) had even performed a traditional 'Puja' to welcome the new inhabitant of the wild. Barely a few days after being released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the pachyderm ventured into the estates in the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, Forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location real-time. Earlier this week, during the wee hours, the tusker got back to his old ways and ventured close to a ration shop in Megamalai and attempted to break open a window, possibly to get hold of the rice stored within. Later, the tusker is said to have ventured back into the forest. Images from the area showed the tusker's giant footprints in the vicinity of the settlements and the ration shop. Carrying on the moniker from Kerala, those in Tamil Nadu refer to the wild tusker as 'Arisi Komban' (translates to rice tusker in Tamil). Forest Officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS. Those staying in the region have been advised to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. We have forest staffers who are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official added. Since the time the tusker ventured into the Megamalai region, the district administration has temporarily suspended tourism and increased the number of Police personnel at the checkposts that lead to Megamalai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: From 'Arikomban' in Kerala to 'Arisi komban' in Tamil Nadu- A wild tusker's journey

<p>India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday schooled the European Union and its foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell after the latter called for action against&nbsp;Indian selling refined products made from Russian crude oil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Urging&nbsp;Borrell to look inwards, Jaishankar said,&nbsp;"Look at EU Council regulations, Russian crude is substantially transformed in the third country and not treated as Russian anymore. I would urge you to look at Council's Regulation 833/2014."</p>

<p>Earlier,&nbsp;Borrell, in an interview with the Financial Times egged Brussels to crack down on India reselling Russian oil into Europe as refined fuel, including diesel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If diesel or gasoline is entering Europe ... coming from India and being produced with Russian oil, that is certainly a circumvention of sanctions and member states have to take measures," the EU's chief diplomat said.</p>

<p>"That India buys Russian oil, it's normal... But if they use that in order to be a centre where Russian oil is being refined and by-products are being sold to us...  we have to act," Borrell said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-eam-jaishankar-defends-indias-stance-on-russian-oil-in-parliament-540991"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: EAM Jaishankar defends India's stance on Russian oil in Parliament</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>India's clear approach to serving its own interests</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when Jaishankar has stood up to the bully tactics of the West. Last year, the EU and other Western nations caused a row by calling out India repeatedly for buying Russian oil at discounted prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Jaishankar&nbsp;took a rather strong approach and shut them by remarking, "Buying Russian gas is not funding the war."</p>

<p>"Why it's only Indian money and fund coming from India and not gas coming to Europe which funds war, let's be even-handed out," said Jaishankar at the Globsec 2022 Bratislava forum.</p>

<p>"Why countries in Europe and West and the United States, why don`t they allow Iranian oil in the market why don't they allow Venezuela oil to come to the market? They have squeezed every other source of oil we have and then say you will not go to the market and get the best deal for the people, it's not a fair approach," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/buying-russian-gas-is-not-funding-the-war-says-jaishankar-484836"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;Buying Russian gas is not funding the war, says Jaishankar</strong></a></p>

<p>In December last year, during a joint press conference&nbsp;with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock, Jaishankar once again laid bare the facts and exposed the West for its hypocrisy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our trade with Russia is at a very small level- USD 12-13 billion, in comparison to European countries. We've also given the Russians a set of products... I don't think people should read more into it other than the legitimate expectations of any trading country to increase its trade," said the EAM.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday schooled the European Union and its foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell after the latter called for action against Indian selling refined products made from Russian crude oil.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday schooled the European Union and its foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell after the latter called for action against Indian selling refined products made from Russian crude oil. Urging Borrell to look inwards, Jaishankar said, "Look at EU Council regulations, Russian crude is substantially transformed in the third country and not treated as Russian anymore. I would urge you to look at Council's Regulation 833/2014." Earlier, Borrell, in an interview with the Financial Times egged Brussels to crack down on India reselling Russian oil into Europe as refined fuel, including diesel. "If diesel or gasoline is entering Europe ... coming from India and being produced with Russian oil, that is certainly a circumvention of sanctions and member states have to take measures," the EU's chief diplomat said. "That India buys Russian oil, it's normal... But if they use that in order to be a centre where Russian oil is being refined and by-products are being sold to us...  we have to act," Borrell said. WATCH | WION Dispatch: EAM Jaishankar defends India's stance on Russian oil in Parliament × India's clear approach to serving its own interests This is not the first instance when Jaishankar has stood up to the bully tactics of the West. Last year, the EU and other Western nations caused a row by calling out India repeatedly for buying Russian oil at discounted prices. However, Jaishankar took a rather strong approach and shut them by remarking, "Buying Russian gas is not funding the war." "Why it's only Indian money and fund coming from India and not gas coming to Europe which funds war, let's be even-handed out," said Jaishankar at the Globsec 2022 Bratislava forum. "Why countries in Europe and West and the United States, why don`t they allow Iranian oil in the market why don't they allow Venezuela oil to come to the market? They have squeezed every other source of oil we have and then say you will not go to the market and get the best deal for the people, it's not a fair approach," he added. ALSO READ: Buying Russian gas is not funding the war, says Jaishankar In December last year, during a joint press conference with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock, Jaishankar once again laid bare the facts and exposed the West for its hypocrisy. "Our trade with Russia is at a very small level- USD 12-13 billion, in comparison to European countries. We've also given the Russians a set of products... I don't think people should read more into it other than the legitimate expectations of any trading country to increase its trade," said the EAM. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EAM S Jaishankar defends India selling Russian crude as refined fuel after EU threatens crackdown

<p>India on Tuesday slammed the US State Department's&nbsp;2022 Report on International Religious Freedom, calling the commentary 'motivated and biased' that criticised the country for not upholding the rights of minorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a press briefing noted that the government was aware of the report before calling it&nbsp;'misinformed' attempt at understanding the situation in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are aware of the release of the US State Department 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom. Regrettably, such reports continue to be based on misinformation and flawed understanding," said Bagchi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Motivated and biased commentary by some US officials only serves to undermine further the credibility of these reports. We value our partnership with the US and will continue to have frank exchanges on issues of concern to us."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-must-set-its-house-in-order-before-accusing-india-of-violating-religious-freedom-295647"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;US must set its house in order before accusing India of violating religious freedom</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What does the report say?</strong></h2>

<p>The report released by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Monday provided a comprehensive view of religious freedom in nearly 200 countries across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, akin to the previous iterations of the report, the 2022 version took a special inkling towards India and its treatment of minorities. India's ruling party Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) was mentioned 28 times in the report while Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal were mentioned 24 and seven times respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-rejects-us-global-religious-freedom-report-229695"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India rejects US global religious freedom report</strong></a></p>

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<p>Rashad Hussain, ambassador at large, Office of International Religious Freedom stated that&nbsp;"far too many governments, including Russia, India, China and Saudi Arabia, continue to freely target faith community members within their borders".</p>

<p>The report claimed that various state governments in India took evasive actions against minorities, especially Muslims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In June, several parts of the country reported violent protests and acts of arson after spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Jindal from the country's ruling BJP made televised remarks about the Prophet Muhammad which were widely seen as offensive by Muslims,"&nbsp;highlighted the US report.</p>

<p>It also pointed out the 2020 Delhi riots, alleging that there were&nbsp;“multiple instances of apparent police complicity” in violent actions against protestors, who were mostly Muslim.</p>

<p>The report also targetted India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that the BJP leader in a public meeting in Hyderabad,&nbsp;promised to end employment and educational quotas for religious minorities in Telangana if his party was voted to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congressional-mandatory annual report becomes the subject of intense scrutiny every year when released. New Delhi, however, has never taken its findings too seriously.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India on Tuesday slammed the US State Department's 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom, calling the commentary 'motivated and biased' that criticised the country for not upholding the rights of minorities.

India on Tuesday slammed the US State Department's 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom, calling the commentary 'motivated and biased' that criticised the country for not upholding the rights of minorities. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a press briefing noted that the government was aware of the report before calling it 'misinformed' attempt at understanding the situation in India. "We are aware of the release of the US State Department 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom. Regrettably, such reports continue to be based on misinformation and flawed understanding," said Bagchi. "Motivated and biased commentary by some US officials only serves to undermine further the credibility of these reports. We value our partnership with the US and will continue to have frank exchanges on issues of concern to us." ALSO READ | US must set its house in order before accusing India of violating religious freedom What does the report say? The report released by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Monday provided a comprehensive view of religious freedom in nearly 200 countries across the world. However, akin to the previous iterations of the report, the 2022 version took a special inkling towards India and its treatment of minorities. India's ruling party Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) was mentioned 28 times in the report while Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal were mentioned 24 and seven times respectively. WATCH | India rejects US global religious freedom report × Rashad Hussain, ambassador at large, Office of International Religious Freedom stated that "far too many governments, including Russia, India, China and Saudi Arabia, continue to freely target faith community members within their borders". The report claimed that various state governments in India took evasive actions against minorities, especially Muslims. "In June, several parts of the country reported violent protests and acts of arson after spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Jindal from the country's ruling BJP made televised remarks about the Prophet Muhammad which were widely seen as offensive by Muslims," highlighted the US report. It also pointed out the 2020 Delhi riots, alleging that there were “multiple instances of apparent police complicity” in violent actions against protestors, who were mostly Muslim. The report also targetted India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that the BJP leader in a public meeting in Hyderabad, promised to end employment and educational quotas for religious minorities in Telangana if his party was voted to power. The Congressional-mandatory annual report becomes the subject of intense scrutiny every year when released. New Delhi, however, has never taken its findings too seriously. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Motivated and biased': India slams US report on religious freedom

<p>Indian author and philanthropist Sudha Murthy recently described her awkward encounter with an immigration officer during her visit to the United Kingdom. She spoke about how an immigration officer refused to believe her when she filled in her residential address in London as 10 Downing Street, where her son-in-law and current British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak lives.</p>

<p>She shared the story during an appearance at Indian Hindi-language stand-up comedy TV show, <em>The Kapil Sharma Show</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>10 Downing Street, which is the official residence and office of the UK prime minister, is currently home to Rishi Sunak. The first Indian-origin prime minister is married to Sudha Murthy’s daughter Akshata Murthy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Once when I had gone, they asked me my residential address. ‘Where are you staying in London?’ My elder sister was with me and I thought should I write ‘10 Downing Street’,” said the Indian philanthropist. She also spoke about how even though her son also lived in the UK at the time, she couldn’t recall his complete address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“But I finally wrote 10 Downing Street,” she added. “The fellow [the immigration officer] looked at me and said ‘Are you joking?!’” To which she responded, “Nahi, sachchi bolti hu [No, I am telling you the truth].”</p>

<p>She also went on to point out how no one believes that a 72-year-old, “simple lady” can be the mother-in-law of the PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video that went viral last month, Murthy was heard saying, “I made my husband a businessman. My daughter made her husband the Prime Minister of the UK."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The reason is the glory of the wife. See how a wife can change a husband. But I could not change my husband,” she went on to say.</p>

<p>Sudha Murthy is the wife of NR Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of Indian IT giant Infosys. She is also the Infosys Foundation chairperson.</p>

<p>Murthy, who was recently awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, also recalled another incident where she was brushed aside by two business class passengers because of her simple apparel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the show, she also recalled a separate incident and&nbsp;being called “cattle class”.</p>

<p>She&nbsp;overheard the passengers say, “What do these economy class people know of Business Class?” She immediately confronted them and asked them what is this “cattle class” and during the show, went on to criticise this mentality which equates class with the amount of money a person has.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian author and philanthropist Sudha Murthy recently described her awkward encounter with an immigration officer during her visit to the United Kingdom. She spoke about how an immigration officer refused to believe her when she filled in her residential address in London as 10 Downing Street, where her son-in-law and current British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak lives.

Indian author and philanthropist Sudha Murthy recently described her awkward encounter with an immigration officer during her visit to the United Kingdom. She spoke about how an immigration officer refused to believe her when she filled in her residential address in London as 10 Downing Street, where her son-in-law and current British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak lives. She shared the story during an appearance at Indian Hindi-language stand-up comedy TV show, The Kapil Sharma Show. 10 Downing Street, which is the official residence and office of the UK prime minister, is currently home to Rishi Sunak. The first Indian-origin prime minister is married to Sudha Murthy’s daughter Akshata Murthy. “Once when I had gone, they asked me my residential address. ‘Where are you staying in London?’ My elder sister was with me and I thought should I write ‘10 Downing Street’,” said the Indian philanthropist. She also spoke about how even though her son also lived in the UK at the time, she couldn’t recall his complete address. “But I finally wrote 10 Downing Street,” she added. “The fellow [the immigration officer] looked at me and said ‘Are you joking?!’” To which she responded, “Nahi, sachchi bolti hu [No, I am telling you the truth].” She also went on to point out how no one believes that a 72-year-old, “simple lady” can be the mother-in-law of the PM. In a video that went viral last month, Murthy was heard saying, “I made my husband a businessman. My daughter made her husband the Prime Minister of the UK." "The reason is the glory of the wife. See how a wife can change a husband. But I could not change my husband,” she went on to say. Sudha Murthy is the wife of NR Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of Indian IT giant Infosys. She is also the Infosys Foundation chairperson. Murthy, who was recently awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, also recalled another incident where she was brushed aside by two business class passengers because of her simple apparel. On the show, she also recalled a separate incident and being called “cattle class”. She overheard the passengers say, “What do these economy class people know of Business Class?” She immediately confronted them and asked them what is this “cattle class” and during the show, went on to criticise this mentality which equates class with the amount of money a person has. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Are you joking?’: UK immigration officer after Sudha Murthy wrote 10 Downing Street as her address

<p>The global e-commerce giant Amazon In. has laid off 500 employees across verticals in India, local media reported.</p>

<p>The layoffs will impact its cloud division AWS as well as People Experience and Technology Solutions (PXT) or HR and support verticals.</p>

<p>The retrenchment is part of the March announcement when the company announced that it was terminating 9,000 employees from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Twitch, advertising, and HR.</p>

<p>This recent round of layoffs at the tech firm marks the second phase of workforce reductions. In January, Amazon had let 18,000 people in January following the decline of tech stocks worldwide.</p>

<p>"We completed the second phase of our planning this month, it led us to these additional 9,000 role reductions", stated a memo by Amazon CEO Andy Jassy shared with employees in March.</p>

<h2><strong>Layoffs at Amazon: Cloud computing and human resources department impacted</strong></h2>

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<p>"I'm writing to share that we intend to eliminate about 9,000 more positions in the next few weeks —mostly in AWS, PXT, Advertising, and Twitch," he said.</p>

<p>"This was a difficult decision, but one that we think is best for the company long term," he added.</p>

<p>AWS CEO Adam Selipsky had initially mentioned that the layoffs at AWS would start from North American, and then reach globally.</p>

<p>"Both our company size and the size of our team have grown significantly in recent years, driven by customer demand for the cloud and the unique value that AWS offers. This growth has come quickly as we have moved as fast as we could to build what customers needed," Selipsky had said.</p>

<p>Amazon CFO Brian Olsavsky attributed the layoffs to slow growth of AWS as the business customers were anticipating market turbulence and adopting a more cautious approach to spending.</p>

<p>Notably, Amazon's e-commerce business in India has experienced a slowdown in growth, highlighting the challenging market conditions the company is facing in the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The global e-commerce giant Amazon In. has laid off 500 employees across verticals in India, local media reported. The layoffs will impact its cloud division AWS as well as People Experience and Technology Solutions (PXT) or HR and support verticals.

The global e-commerce giant Amazon In. has laid off 500 employees across verticals in India, local media reported. The layoffs will impact its cloud division AWS as well as People Experience and Technology Solutions (PXT) or HR and support verticals. The retrenchment is part of the March announcement when the company announced that it was terminating 9,000 employees from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Twitch, advertising, and HR. This recent round of layoffs at the tech firm marks the second phase of workforce reductions. In January, Amazon had let 18,000 people in January following the decline of tech stocks worldwide. "We completed the second phase of our planning this month, it led us to these additional 9,000 role reductions", stated a memo by Amazon CEO Andy Jassy shared with employees in March. Layoffs at Amazon: Cloud computing and human resources department impacted "I'm writing to share that we intend to eliminate about 9,000 more positions in the next few weeks —mostly in AWS, PXT, Advertising, and Twitch," he said. "This was a difficult decision, but one that we think is best for the company long term," he added. AWS CEO Adam Selipsky had initially mentioned that the layoffs at AWS would start from North American, and then reach globally. "Both our company size and the size of our team have grown significantly in recent years, driven by customer demand for the cloud and the unique value that AWS offers. This growth has come quickly as we have moved as fast as we could to build what customers needed," Selipsky had said. Amazon CFO Brian Olsavsky attributed the layoffs to slow growth of AWS as the business customers were anticipating market turbulence and adopting a more cautious approach to spending. Notably, Amazon's e-commerce business in India has experienced a slowdown in growth, highlighting the challenging market conditions the company is facing in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amazon lays off 500 employees in India across different verticals

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<p>A year after launching the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the two countries will conduct the inaugural meeting of Strategic Trade Dialogue&nbsp;next month to implement the outcomes of the initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting, expected to take place on June 4-5, will attempt to streamline export controls, enhance high-tech commerce and facilitate tech transfer between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was in May last year during the Quad Summit that the initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden. The main aim of the initiative was to elevate and expand strategic technology partnership and defence-industrial cooperation between the governments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January this year, the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of the two countries met and led the inaugural dialogue of the iCET in Washington, DC.</p>

<p>"The two sides discussed opportunities for greater cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, co-development and coproduction, and ways to deepen connectivity across our innovation ecosystems," read a statement released by the White House at the time.</p>

<p>Later in March,&nbsp;US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited India and met his counterpart Piyush Goyal as the duo announced relaunching the&nbsp;bilateral commercial dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Minister Goyal and Secretary Raimondo noted the importance of coordinating with the standing mechanism established by the two governments under iCET, which aims to address regulatory barriers and other issues that impede smooth economic and commercial ties," read the&nbsp;joint statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden to host Modi</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement of the meeting comes in the backdrop of the White House announcing that President Biden will be hosting PM Modi on June 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will host Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India for an Official State Visit to the United States, which will include a state dinner, on June 22, 2023. The upcoming visit will affirm the deep and close partnership between the United States and India and the warm bonds of family and friendship that link Americans and Indians together, " announced Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-president-biden-to-host-indias-pm-modi-on-june-22-white-house-591050" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House</strong></a></p>

<p>The relations between the two nations have been on an upswing in recent times, despite the odd hiccup. Prior to his US visit, PM Modi will be meeting Biden during the May 19-21 G-7 summit in Japan, then during the QUAD summit on May 24 in Australia. They&nbsp;will cross paths in Paua New Guinea&nbsp;on May 22&nbsp;as part of critical engagement of the Far Pacific nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A year after launching the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the two countries will conduct the inaugural meeting of Strategic Trade Dialogue next month to implement the outcomes of the initiative.

A year after launching the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the two countries will conduct the inaugural meeting of Strategic Trade Dialogue next month to implement the outcomes of the initiative. The meeting, expected to take place on June 4-5, will attempt to streamline export controls, enhance high-tech commerce and facilitate tech transfer between the two countries. It was in May last year during the Quad Summit that the initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden. The main aim of the initiative was to elevate and expand strategic technology partnership and defence-industrial cooperation between the governments. In January this year, the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of the two countries met and led the inaugural dialogue of the iCET in Washington, DC. "The two sides discussed opportunities for greater cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, co-development and coproduction, and ways to deepen connectivity across our innovation ecosystems," read a statement released by the White House at the time. Later in March, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited India and met his counterpart Piyush Goyal as the duo announced relaunching the bilateral commercial dialogue. "Minister Goyal and Secretary Raimondo noted the importance of coordinating with the standing mechanism established by the two governments under iCET, which aims to address regulatory barriers and other issues that impede smooth economic and commercial ties," read the joint statement. Biden to host Modi The announcement of the meeting comes in the backdrop of the White House announcing that President Biden will be hosting PM Modi on June 22. "President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will host Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India for an Official State Visit to the United States, which will include a state dinner, on June 22, 2023. The upcoming visit will affirm the deep and close partnership between the United States and India and the warm bonds of family and friendship that link Americans and Indians together, " announced Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement. ALSO READ | US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House The relations between the two nations have been on an upswing in recent times, despite the odd hiccup. Prior to his US visit, PM Modi will be meeting Biden during the May 19-21 G-7 summit in Japan, then during the QUAD summit on May 24 in Australia. They will cross paths in Paua New Guinea on May 22 as part of critical engagement of the Far Pacific nations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India, US to hold inaugural Strategic Trade Dialogue next month with focus on iCET

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<p>The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in the financial capital of India, Mumbai, is planning to construct a "Bow-String" bridge to connect the 10.58-kilometre Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) with Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL).</p>

<p>To ease vehicular congestion, the BMC has started MCRP to significantly reduce travelling time in Mumbai. The high-speed road project is expected to originate from the Princess Street flyover near Marine Drive and&nbsp;will end at BWSL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the decision to build a "Bow-String" bridge was taken after the local fishing community started a protest. Earlier, an arterial bridge was to be constructed on monopiles (pillars) to connect MCRP with BWSL. However, the fishing community argued that the gap between pillars was not adequate for boats which could be dangerous for boats during strong waves, as well as hamper their livelihood.</p>

<p>They demanded that the gap between pillars be around 200 metres while the BMC suggested 60 metres. As the protests snowballed, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde intervened, earlier this year in January and recommended that the gap be increased to 120 metres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a relative period of back and forth, BMC gave up on the arterial bridge and decided to construct a ‘Bow String’ girder bridge.</p>

<p>“The primary reason why we chose this option is that this bridge doesn’t require additional piling works and the removal of one of the existing monopiles will not pose any threat to the structure. This bridge will be held by high-tension chords and these kind of designs are suitable for smaller bridges built without any strong foundation,” one of the officials was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bmc-takes-steps-to-curb-dust-in-indian-financial-capital-mumbai-585785"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;BMC takes steps to curb dust in Indian financial capital Mumbai</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is a Bow-String bridge?</strong></h2>

<p>A Bow-String bridge is a type of bridge which is held together using high-tension chords instead of resting on pillars for support. The arch-shaped chords support the end of the bridge tightly with the surface. Due to the shape of the bridges, which resembles that of a 'bow', the name came into being.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the major reasons why such a bridge has been preferred by the BMC is because of safety. After BMC considered the requests of fishermen, the gap between pillars was increased but it proved to be unsafe for the overall structural integrity of the bridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbai-dabbawalas-to-attend-king-charles-coronation-588591"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Mumbai Dabbawalas to attend King Charles' coronation</strong></a></p>

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<p>Currently, BMC has set a November 2023 deadline for the project. However, with the change in design, the deadline may very well be pushed beyond May 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The work on the other stretches of the coastal road is on schedule. This bridge will come up in the northern fag-end, which is within the last one kilometre. If the remaining stretch is ready before bridge work completes, then the MCRP may be opened for vehicular movement,” added the&nbsp;official.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in the financial capital of India, Mumbai, is planning to construct a "Bow-String" bridge to connect the 10.58-kilometre Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) with Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL).

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in the financial capital of India, Mumbai, is planning to construct a "Bow-String" bridge to connect the 10.58-kilometre Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) with Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). To ease vehicular congestion, the BMC has started MCRP to significantly reduce travelling time in Mumbai. The high-speed road project is expected to originate from the Princess Street flyover near Marine Drive and will end at BWSL. Notably, the decision to build a "Bow-String" bridge was taken after the local fishing community started a protest. Earlier, an arterial bridge was to be constructed on monopiles (pillars) to connect MCRP with BWSL. However, the fishing community argued that the gap between pillars was not adequate for boats which could be dangerous for boats during strong waves, as well as hamper their livelihood. They demanded that the gap between pillars be around 200 metres while the BMC suggested 60 metres. As the protests snowballed, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde intervened, earlier this year in January and recommended that the gap be increased to 120 metres. After a relative period of back and forth, BMC gave up on the arterial bridge and decided to construct a ‘Bow String’ girder bridge. “The primary reason why we chose this option is that this bridge doesn’t require additional piling works and the removal of one of the existing monopiles will not pose any threat to the structure. This bridge will be held by high-tension chords and these kind of designs are suitable for smaller bridges built without any strong foundation,” one of the officials was quoted as saying by the Indian Express. ALSO READ | BMC takes steps to curb dust in Indian financial capital Mumbai What is a Bow-String bridge? A Bow-String bridge is a type of bridge which is held together using high-tension chords instead of resting on pillars for support. The arch-shaped chords support the end of the bridge tightly with the surface. Due to the shape of the bridges, which resembles that of a 'bow', the name came into being. One of the major reasons why such a bridge has been preferred by the BMC is because of safety. After BMC considered the requests of fishermen, the gap between pillars was increased but it proved to be unsafe for the overall structural integrity of the bridge. WATCH | Mumbai Dabbawalas to attend King Charles' coronation × Currently, BMC has set a November 2023 deadline for the project. However, with the change in design, the deadline may very well be pushed beyond May 2024. “The work on the other stretches of the coastal road is on schedule. This bridge will come up in the northern fag-end, which is within the last one kilometre. If the remaining stretch is ready before bridge work completes, then the MCRP may be opened for vehicular movement,” added the official. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: BMC to build 'Bow-String' bridge to connect coastal road with Bandra Worli sea link

<p>Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD&nbsp;2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is&nbsp;aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.</p>

<p>Unsoo Kim, MD and&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard.&nbsp;The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin.</p>

<p>"As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M&nbsp;Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory.</p>

<p>"Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current&nbsp;775,000&nbsp;(7.75 lakh) cars per annum to&nbsp;850,000&nbsp;(8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added.</p>

<p>According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India.&nbsp;</p>

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Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.

Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit. Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard. The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin. "As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021. Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory. "Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current 775,000 (7.75 lakh) cars per annum to 850,000 (8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added. According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hyundai to invest $2.5bn in India, scale up production at its largest manufacturing hub outside Korea

<p>India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward.</p>

<p>The idea is to create a "more comfortable space" for women in the city besides ensuring that they get various amenities, he stated</p>

<p>"Recently, in a meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, I cited the example of a 'pink park' in my ward (Chandni Mahal) in old Delhi and suggested that such parks can be set up in all wards,” Iqbal said. "My idea found resonance with the Chief Minister and later, in a meeting of the civic body's Horticulture department, I proposed that each ward should have at least one such park," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-university-calls-rahul-gandhis-sudden-visit-an-act-of-trespass-591441">India: Delhi University calls Rahul Gandhi's sudden visit an act of 'trespass'</a></p>

<p>250 wards fall under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) jurisdiction. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Iqbal said that they have set up a 'pink park' on Mata Sundari Road as a pilot project and in these parks, women can be accompanied by children till the age of 10.</p>

<p>The officials will be replicating the same model in other wards. The 'pink parks' of the capital will have CCTV cameras, toilets, gym facilities and walls decorated with graffiti to offer a comfortable space to the woman.</p>

<p>The deputy mayor of the national capital said that one park will be identified by the councillors in their respective wards for getting converted into 'pink parks'.</p>

<p>"Many councillors have been told to look for locations in their wards already. This initiative is to provide better and safer places for women in public parks and I am hopeful that even councillors from other parties will co-operate in achieving this vision," he said while speaking to news agency Press Trust of India (PTI).</p>

<p>MCD's senior official said that Iqbal tabled the proposal in the Horticulture department's recent meeting but "we will work on it if there is a demand for it from people of the wards".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | The perks of an extended spring in Delhi</strong></p>

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<p>"A 'pink park' sounds very good but we, as a civic body, cannot just restrict access to a large segment of the male population, which include elderly people too, who may not agree to a public park being restricted to be used by people of just one gender," he stated.</p>

<p>"We will work on it as and when we get a request from an area councillor. If there is a demand from the residents and the councillors who represent them make a proposal for such women-only parks, we will take it forward," the official added.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward.

India's national capital is set to get 250 'pink parks' which will be strictly for women and men's entry will not be allowed. Speaking about this innovative plan, Delhi Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal said that they have started the work of identifying locations to establish women-only 'pink parks' in every MCD ward. The idea is to create a "more comfortable space" for women in the city besides ensuring that they get various amenities, he stated "Recently, in a meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, I cited the example of a 'pink park' in my ward (Chandni Mahal) in old Delhi and suggested that such parks can be set up in all wards,” Iqbal said. "My idea found resonance with the Chief Minister and later, in a meeting of the civic body's Horticulture department, I proposed that each ward should have at least one such park," he added. ALSO READ | India: Delhi University calls Rahul Gandhi's sudden visit an act of 'trespass' 250 wards fall under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) jurisdiction. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Iqbal said that they have set up a 'pink park' on Mata Sundari Road as a pilot project and in these parks, women can be accompanied by children till the age of 10. The officials will be replicating the same model in other wards. The 'pink parks' of the capital will have CCTV cameras, toilets, gym facilities and walls decorated with graffiti to offer a comfortable space to the woman. The deputy mayor of the national capital said that one park will be identified by the councillors in their respective wards for getting converted into 'pink parks'. "Many councillors have been told to look for locations in their wards already. This initiative is to provide better and safer places for women in public parks and I am hopeful that even councillors from other parties will co-operate in achieving this vision," he said while speaking to news agency Press Trust of India (PTI). MCD's senior official said that Iqbal tabled the proposal in the Horticulture department's recent meeting but "we will work on it if there is a demand for it from people of the wards". WATCH | The perks of an extended spring in Delhi "A 'pink park' sounds very good but we, as a civic body, cannot just restrict access to a large segment of the male population, which include elderly people too, who may not agree to a public park being restricted to be used by people of just one gender," he stated. "We will work on it as and when we get a request from an area councillor. If there is a demand from the residents and the councillors who represent them make a proposal for such women-only parks, we will take it forward," the official added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Men not allowed: India’s national capital to get 250 women-only ‘pink parks’

<p>Nine students have died by suicide in Andhra Pradesh after results of class 11 and 12 exams were declared on Wednesday by the Andhra Pradesh Board of Intermediate Examination. The shocking news comes amidst a spate of suicides in India's premier colleges. Four students have died in suspected suicides this year at various campuses of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).</p>

<p>As per National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) Accidental Deaths &amp; Suicides in India (ADSI) report, over 13,000 students died in 2021 in India at the rate of more than 35 every day, a rise of 4.5 per cent from the 12,526 deaths in 2020 with 864 out of 10,732 suicides being due to “failure in examination.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The number of deaths by suicide among students saw an increase of 4.5 per cent in 2021, shows the latest data from the NCRB. Maharashtra had the highest number of student deaths by suicide in 2021 with 1,834 deaths, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 1,308, and Tamil Nadu with 1,246 deaths.<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncrb-data-shows-increase-in-deaths-by-suicide-in-2021-511188">India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on this issue, Dr Ashima Shrivastava, RCI Registered Child and Adult Psychologist told WION, “As we all know that there is a stigma related to mental health issues. Many times people are not able to approach professional help. So, in such a scenario there are Govt helplines and NGO helplines which are very helpful. First of all, they are free of cost and easily accessible and children could keep a note of these emergency numbers. These helplines provide a very confidential and non-judgemental support to the children when a person is in a high level of distress. To name a few in India, there is Sanjeevani and Sneh, run by&nbsp;NGOs, there are proper timings and languages present on their website.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-by-firearms-among-youth-in-the-united-states-highest-in-20-years-report-484444">Suicide by firearms among youth in the United States highest in 20 years: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>“There are a lot of strategies which one can use to keep a check on their emotions. Like firstly, it could be journaling their thoughts on a paper which gives them an outlet and then process them in a better manner and other could be recognising your triggers and be mindful of the things that are stressful&nbsp;and find the right ways to be with, identifying right coping mechanisms. A healthy sleep cycle is the most important thing. There are many grounding exercises that can be helpful in dealing with overwhelming stress and anxiety,” she added.</p>

<p>Suicide which accounts for the fourth leading cause of death amongst the youth is an alarming issue in the country, for a population where 65 per cent of people are under 35 years of age. It is one of the leading causes of fatalities. A national policy on suicide prevention is an imperative step towards fulfilling India’s commitment to health in general and mental health in particular as well as towards achieving the World Health Organization’s Sustainable Development Goals.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Nine students have died by suicide in Andhra Pradesh after results of class 11 and 12 exams were declared on Wednesday by the Andhra Pradesh Board of Intermediate Examination.

Nine students have died by suicide in Andhra Pradesh after results of class 11 and 12 exams were declared on Wednesday by the Andhra Pradesh Board of Intermediate Examination. The shocking news comes amidst a spate of suicides in India's premier colleges. Four students have died in suspected suicides this year at various campuses of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). As per National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India (ADSI) report, over 13,000 students died in 2021 in India at the rate of more than 35 every day, a rise of 4.5 per cent from the 12,526 deaths in 2020 with 864 out of 10,732 suicides being due to “failure in examination.” The number of deaths by suicide among students saw an increase of 4.5 per cent in 2021, shows the latest data from the NCRB. Maharashtra had the highest number of student deaths by suicide in 2021 with 1,834 deaths, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 1,308, and Tamil Nadu with 1,246 deaths. ALSO READ | India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021 Speaking on this issue, Dr Ashima Shrivastava, RCI Registered Child and Adult Psychologist told WION, “As we all know that there is a stigma related to mental health issues. Many times people are not able to approach professional help. So, in such a scenario there are Govt helplines and NGO helplines which are very helpful. First of all, they are free of cost and easily accessible and children could keep a note of these emergency numbers. These helplines provide a very confidential and non-judgemental support to the children when a person is in a high level of distress. To name a few in India, there is Sanjeevani and Sneh, run by NGOs, there are proper timings and languages present on their website.” ALSO READ | Suicide by firearms among youth in the United States highest in 20 years: Report “There are a lot of strategies which one can use to keep a check on their emotions. Like firstly, it could be journaling their thoughts on a paper which gives them an outlet and then process them in a better manner and other could be recognising your triggers and be mindful of the things that are stressful and find the right ways to be with, identifying right coping mechanisms. A healthy sleep cycle is the most important thing. There are many grounding exercises that can be helpful in dealing with overwhelming stress and anxiety,” she added. Suicide which accounts for the fourth leading cause of death amongst the youth is an alarming issue in the country, for a population where 65 per cent of people are under 35 years of age. It is one of the leading causes of fatalities. A national policy on suicide prevention is an imperative step towards fulfilling India’s commitment to health in general and mental health in particular as well as towards achieving the World Health Organization’s Sustainable Development Goals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s shocking suicide rate: More than 35 students end life every day

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<p>India-Egypt relations have been on the upswing. The year started with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visiting New Delhi as the chief guest for the Republic Day parade as the two sides produced a roadmap for bilateral relations and set the tone for cooperation in areas from “pharma to military industries to security to information technology". Now, in an exclusive conversation with WIONs diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal on the sidelines of the sixth Indian Ocean Conference in Dhaka, Aly Houssam El-Din El-Hefny, secretary general of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs has reflected on the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When quizzed about the increased momentum between the two countries, El-Hefny said relations were growing stronger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Excellent thing to think of. Obvious that relations had to develop further. Cordial relations. Serious push lately. Sisi's visit important. Political, economic issues, investments, terrorism radicalism, military cooperation. More exercises between the two. Relations getting diversified," said El-Hefny.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Military co-operation between the two nations</strong></h2>

<p>Asked if Egypt was planning to purchase military equipment from New Delhi to strengthen its forces, El-Hefny, who has&nbsp;previously served as the Egyptian ambassador to China, Hungary, Mexico, Belize and Mongolia remained optimistic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is for the military to decide. We have accumulated expertise in the military and there is room for exchange (on military tech)."</p>

<p>Notably, in January, prior to&nbsp;El-Sisi’s attendance at India’s Republic Day celebrations, the two countries&nbsp;held their first-ever military joint exercise in Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-remains-indias-indispensable-afro-arab-ally-556082"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;President El-Sisi visits as R-Day chief guest, Egypt remains Delhi’s indispensable Afro-Arab ally</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>India's G20 presidency&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>With India undertaking the G20 presidency this year and holding the summit later this year, Cairo said it was invited by India because the government in New Delhi believes the African country can add value to the summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Very important, India is of the opinion that Egypt has to be invited because its an important economically developing nation and has a prosperous future. Egypt will add value to the G20 summit. We will be able to attend our experience and analysis with others at the forum."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-egypts-ambassador-to-india-wael-hamed-speaks-to-wion-553261"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Egypt's ambassador to India Wael Hamed speaks to WION</strong></a></p>

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<p>Egypt is a significant gateway to markets in Africa and Europe. According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, bilateral trade reached a record high of $7.26 billion in 2021–22.</p>

<p>Under former Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser, relations between India and Egypt improved, particularly following India's support for Egypt during the 1956 Suez Crisis.</p>

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India-Egypt relations have been on the upswing. The year started with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visiting New Delhi as the chief guest for the Republic Day parade as the two sides produced a roadmap for bilateral relations and set the tone for cooperation in areas from “pharma to military industries to security to information technology".

India-Egypt relations have been on the upswing. The year started with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visiting New Delhi as the chief guest for the Republic Day parade as the two sides produced a roadmap for bilateral relations and set the tone for cooperation in areas from “pharma to military industries to security to information technology". Now, in an exclusive conversation with WIONs diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal on the sidelines of the sixth Indian Ocean Conference in Dhaka, Aly Houssam El-Din El-Hefny, secretary general of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs has reflected on the same. When quizzed about the increased momentum between the two countries, El-Hefny said relations were growing stronger. "Excellent thing to think of. Obvious that relations had to develop further. Cordial relations. Serious push lately. Sisi's visit important. Political, economic issues, investments, terrorism radicalism, military cooperation. More exercises between the two. Relations getting diversified," said El-Hefny. Military co-operation between the two nations Asked if Egypt was planning to purchase military equipment from New Delhi to strengthen its forces, El-Hefny, who has previously served as the Egyptian ambassador to China, Hungary, Mexico, Belize and Mongolia remained optimistic. "It is for the military to decide. We have accumulated expertise in the military and there is room for exchange (on military tech)." Notably, in January, prior to El-Sisi’s attendance at India’s Republic Day celebrations, the two countries held their first-ever military joint exercise in Rajasthan. ALSO READ | President El-Sisi visits as R-Day chief guest, Egypt remains Delhi’s indispensable Afro-Arab ally India's G20 presidency With India undertaking the G20 presidency this year and holding the summit later this year, Cairo said it was invited by India because the government in New Delhi believes the African country can add value to the summit. "Very important, India is of the opinion that Egypt has to be invited because its an important economically developing nation and has a prosperous future. Egypt will add value to the G20 summit. We will be able to attend our experience and analysis with others at the forum." WATCH | WION Exclusive: Egypt's ambassador to India Wael Hamed speaks to WION × Egypt is a significant gateway to markets in Africa and Europe. According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, bilateral trade reached a record high of $7.26 billion in 2021–22. Under former Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser, relations between India and Egypt improved, particularly following India's support for Egypt during the 1956 Suez Crisis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Exclusive: 'Cairo can add value to summit': Top Egyptian official on receiving G20 invitation from New Delhi

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{28e3f0b1-607e-4e64-ad36-ea3ecdee2299}{126}" paraid="693933207" >Bhutan is on the verge of resolving its border issue with neighboring China, the country’s Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji told in an interview to WION.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{67fdad8d-5598-4823-ace8-2866c37c7de6}{69}" paraid="646497294" >Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibbal on the sidelines&nbsp;of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka, Dorji affirmed that there is peace and tranquility in the border, and denied that China was encroaching on its territory.&nbsp; He further hoped that the demarcation of the border is done as soon as possible to avoid any future possible disagreements.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{28e3f0b1-607e-4e64-ad36-ea3ecdee2299}{6}" paraid="481526497" >“Bhutan and China share a very close and cordial relationship. Our border in the north has not been demarcated. We have had 24 rounds of talks and we continue to have our expert group meeting and we hope that it will come to be resolved very soon,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e5917ffa-4b39-4ff1-8447-83367b4815a8}{119}" paraid="1001904204" >“Last year, we signed the three-step approach to resolve the border… So, we hope that this can be taken forward in the upcoming meeting. As far as the border is concerned, there is peace and tranquillity. We hope that the demarcation of the border happens soon,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e5917ffa-4b39-4ff1-8447-83367b4815a8}{119}" paraid="1001904204" >When asked about China's stand on the contentious Doklam border issue, the minister&nbsp;said, "From our side, the Chinese have always been on their side of the territory and we have not seen them getting into the Bhutanese territories."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4ddd1432-e501-44dc-9452-5a80aff09759}{44}" paraid="1467377079" >Doklam is an area spread over less than 100 sq km comprising a plateau and a valley at the trijunction between China's Chumbi Valley to the north, Bhutan's Ha District to the east, and India's Sikkim state to the west. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cc65ccc6-08d2-44c6-8930-82cbd1c93386}{78}" paraid="985114342" >The plateau is also claimed by China. Bhutan has a written agreement with China that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, peace and tranquility should be maintained.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cd76d92b-7d7c-4e31-93b3-6d6df4fc361e}{128}" paraid="1959912575" >The border issue also became one of the flashpoints of the India-China dispute in 2017&nbsp;when the Indian troops, in aid of their Bhutan counterparts, objected to the Chinese army constructing a road in the area.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ff252d25-dcd2-4af7-9c9c-6e611dea2e42}{216}" paraid="653287557" >Speaking on the India-Bhutan railway connectivity, Dorji gave reasons why didn’t take off as expected.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{99586754-d192-4068-8c03-0963d10280c0}{36}" paraid="1957243758" >“The connectivity MoU was signed but could not be executed because of some difficulties. So, now we have relooked the site and chosen a site on India’s Assam border to make it much easier for the railway to be connected,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50f9096b-f81d-4d1c-b232-f016af0db7f1}{241}" paraid="1479796058" >He, however, said that Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh are working on other infrastructure projects that connect the three countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{44338ad1-c0a3-4d88-99ca-95ae3b0fcc09}{219}" paraid="1523818109" >“Bhutan has recently requested for its second international airport and we have signed a number of agreements on the routes that will connect Bhutan India and Bangladesh. Also, this time we have come to an agreement where we will build&nbsp;road infrastructure so that the transport system can be enhanced and that’s why I&nbsp;feel confident that going forward it is important that BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal Initiative)&nbsp;should be relooked upon.”&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ad453ad-81db-4aa4-a9d0-a0979bfee6db}{4}" paraid="353085999" >The&nbsp;BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement&nbsp;is a landmark agreement signed by the member countries, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal in 2015 to facilitate the unhindered movement of people and cargo between. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ad453ad-81db-4aa4-a9d0-a0979bfee6db}{4}" paraid="353085999" >The foreign minister also thanked Indian space agency ISRO for launching Bhutan’s first satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{99586754-d192-4068-8c03-0963d10280c0}{72}" paraid="1948343742" >“I thank ISRO chairman Somanath&nbsp;&nbsp;for visiting Bhutan last month, and also for launching the India-Bhutan satellite.”&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf205228-b911-4951-bc4d-ce51230b290b}{35}" paraid="165022332" >“When ISRO chairman came to Bhutan he said that we will be able to collect the data from the satellite and help us monitor our forest and our land used patterns,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

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Bhutan is on the verge of resolving its border issue with neighboring China, the country’s Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji told in an interview to WION. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibbal on the sidelines of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka, Dorji affirmed that there is peace and tranquility in the border, and denied that China was encroaching on its territory.

Bhutan is on the verge of resolving its border issue with neighboring China, the country’s Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji told in an interview to WION. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibbal on the sidelines of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka, Dorji affirmed that there is peace and tranquility in the border, and denied that China was encroaching on its territory. He further hoped that the demarcation of the border is done as soon as possible to avoid any future possible disagreements. “Bhutan and China share a very close and cordial relationship. Our border in the north has not been demarcated. We have had 24 rounds of talks and we continue to have our expert group meeting and we hope that it will come to be resolved very soon,” he said. “Last year, we signed the three-step approach to resolve the border… So, we hope that this can be taken forward in the upcoming meeting. As far as the border is concerned, there is peace and tranquillity. We hope that the demarcation of the border happens soon,” he added. When asked about China's stand on the contentious Doklam border issue, the minister said, "From our side, the Chinese have always been on their side of the territory and we have not seen them getting into the Bhutanese territories." Doklam is an area spread over less than 100 sq km comprising a plateau and a valley at the trijunction between China's Chumbi Valley to the north, Bhutan's Ha District to the east, and India's Sikkim state to the west. The plateau is also claimed by China. Bhutan has a written agreement with China that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, peace and tranquility should be maintained. The border issue also became one of the flashpoints of the India-China dispute in 2017 when the Indian troops, in aid of their Bhutan counterparts, objected to the Chinese army constructing a road in the area. Speaking on the India-Bhutan railway connectivity, Dorji gave reasons why didn’t take off as expected. “The connectivity MoU was signed but could not be executed because of some difficulties. So, now we have relooked the site and chosen a site on India’s Assam border to make it much easier for the railway to be connected,” he said. He, however, said that Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh are working on other infrastructure projects that connect the three countries. “Bhutan has recently requested for its second international airport and we have signed a number of agreements on the routes that will connect Bhutan India and Bangladesh. Also, this time we have come to an agreement where we will build road infrastructure so that the transport system can be enhanced and that’s why I feel confident that going forward it is important that BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal Initiative) should be relooked upon.” The BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement is a landmark agreement signed by the member countries, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal in 2015 to facilitate the unhindered movement of people and cargo between. The foreign minister also thanked Indian space agency ISRO for launching Bhutan’s first satellite. “I thank ISRO chairman Somanath for visiting Bhutan last month, and also for launching the India-Bhutan satellite.” “When ISRO chairman came to Bhutan he said that we will be able to collect the data from the satellite and help us monitor our forest and our land used patterns,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Exclusive: Hope to demarcate border with China, says Bhutan FM Tandi Dorji

<p>India has been placed on a watchlist with a negative outlook by a global aviation leasing watchdog, which said it had failed to comply with international aircraft repossession norms after airline Go First was granted bankruptcy protection.</p>

<p>The move by the Aviation Working Group, a UK-based entity that monitors leasing and financing laws, could raise leasing costs for Indian airlines and hurt lessors' confidence just as the world’s third-largest domestic market witness record growth.</p>

<p>Such an outlook will "have a direct and material impact on future financing and leases to Indian airlines", AWG told Go First in a letter copied to India's aviation minister.</p>

<p>Go Airlines (India) Ltd filed for bankruptcy protection last week, blaming "faulty" Pratt &amp; Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its 54 Airbus A320neos. Pratt, part of Raytheon Technologies, says the claims are without evidence and divert attention from the airline's financial woes.</p>

<p>In granting protection, the Indian tribunal ordered a freeze on Go First's assets even though some lessors had already terminated leases and placed requests with the aviation regulator to repossess more than 40 planes.</p>

<p>Failure to process the applications before the freeze was imposed, "results in a negative outlook", AWG said in the notice.</p>

<p>India's aviation ministry and regulator were not immediately available to comment.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/from-crisis-to-cockpit-go-first-employees-flock-to-air-india-for-a-chance-to-rise-again-589191">From crisis to cockpit: Go First employees flock to Air India for a chance to rise again</a></p>

<h2><strong>TREATY TEST</strong></h2>

<p>The dispute comes as Indian air travel is booming and hundreds of new jets have been ordered by local carriers, who depend heavily on foreign lessors to finance plane purchases.</p>

<p>It is also the latest test of a 2001 treaty designed to smooth the growth of aviation by protecting repossession rights, which hit headlines when Russia blocked the repossession of jets in retaliation over Western Ukraine-related sanctions last year.</p>

<p>India has ratified the so-called Cape Town Convention but has yet to pass a law resolving conflicts with the country's insolvency and bankruptcy code, which is backed by parliament.</p>

<p>"Given (this), implementation of the Convention will run into challenges when read with the bankruptcy laws," said Syed Tamjeed Ahmad, co-founder of aviation law firm Spaviatech Law.</p>

<p>Go First's lessors include SMBC Aviation, CDB Aviation's GY Aviation Leasing, Jackson Square Aviation and BOC Aviation.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Go Air says its planes being repossessed, requests for quick decision on bankruptcy</strong></p>

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<p>In its letter to the airline's court-appointed administrator at Go First, AWG said the airline has an "obligation" to preserve the aircraft and maintain their value until the creditors and lessors can take possession.</p>

<p>AWG is a not-for-profit entity co-chaired by Airbus and Boeing. Members include major lessors and financial institutions like Aircastle, BOC Aviation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley.</p>

<p>The negative outlook by AWG is under what it calls the compliance index, which addresses whether requirements under the Cape Town Convention are met in practice.</p>

<p>India's score has been reduced to 3 from 3.5 earlier.</p>

<p>"If those jets can't get repossessed, everyone in the country pays more. There is a risk premium," said Richard Aboulafia, managing director at Aerodynamic Advisory.</p>

<p>The warning is the second in as many months after AWG in April issued an alert about Vietnam's compliance with international norms in a dispute over repossession of four jets.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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India has been placed on a watchlist with a negative outlook by a global aviation leasing watchdog, which said it had failed to comply with international aircraft repossession norms after airline Go First was granted bankruptcy protection.

India has been placed on a watchlist with a negative outlook by a global aviation leasing watchdog, which said it had failed to comply with international aircraft repossession norms after airline Go First was granted bankruptcy protection. The move by the Aviation Working Group, a UK-based entity that monitors leasing and financing laws, could raise leasing costs for Indian airlines and hurt lessors' confidence just as the world’s third-largest domestic market witness record growth. Such an outlook will "have a direct and material impact on future financing and leases to Indian airlines", AWG told Go First in a letter copied to India's aviation minister. Go Airlines (India) Ltd filed for bankruptcy protection last week, blaming "faulty" Pratt & Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its 54 Airbus A320neos. Pratt, part of Raytheon Technologies, says the claims are without evidence and divert attention from the airline's financial woes. In granting protection, the Indian tribunal ordered a freeze on Go First's assets even though some lessors had already terminated leases and placed requests with the aviation regulator to repossess more than 40 planes. Failure to process the applications before the freeze was imposed, "results in a negative outlook", AWG said in the notice. India's aviation ministry and regulator were not immediately available to comment. ALSO READ | From crisis to cockpit: Go First employees flock to Air India for a chance to rise again TREATY TEST The dispute comes as Indian air travel is booming and hundreds of new jets have been ordered by local carriers, who depend heavily on foreign lessors to finance plane purchases. It is also the latest test of a 2001 treaty designed to smooth the growth of aviation by protecting repossession rights, which hit headlines when Russia blocked the repossession of jets in retaliation over Western Ukraine-related sanctions last year. India has ratified the so-called Cape Town Convention but has yet to pass a law resolving conflicts with the country's insolvency and bankruptcy code, which is backed by parliament. "Given (this), implementation of the Convention will run into challenges when read with the bankruptcy laws," said Syed Tamjeed Ahmad, co-founder of aviation law firm Spaviatech Law. Go First's lessors include SMBC Aviation, CDB Aviation's GY Aviation Leasing, Jackson Square Aviation and BOC Aviation. WATCH | Go Air says its planes being repossessed, requests for quick decision on bankruptcy In its letter to the airline's court-appointed administrator at Go First, AWG said the airline has an "obligation" to preserve the aircraft and maintain their value until the creditors and lessors can take possession. AWG is a not-for-profit entity co-chaired by Airbus and Boeing. Members include major lessors and financial institutions like Aircastle, BOC Aviation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. The negative outlook by AWG is under what it calls the compliance index, which addresses whether requirements under the Cape Town Convention are met in practice. India's score has been reduced to 3 from 3.5 earlier. "If those jets can't get repossessed, everyone in the country pays more. There is a risk premium," said Richard Aboulafia, managing director at Aerodynamic Advisory. The warning is the second in as many months after AWG in April issued an alert about Vietnam's compliance with international norms in a dispute over repossession of four jets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Aviation watchdog puts India on watchlist after Go First-Pratt & Whitney tiff over jets

<p>The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur&nbsp;and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have received seven responses from state governments. Rajasthan has taken a position that they have examined and opposed it, while the rest say that this needs an expansive debate," said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to the court.</p>

<p>Various religions and underlined Acts, which fall under the Constitution, were quoted by the opposing states to support their stand against same-sex marriage.</p>

<p>The Rajasthan government, opposing same-sex marriage's legalisation, said that people's sentiments were against homosexual marriages.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/urban-elite-concept-indian-govt-opposes-same-sex-marriage-as-sc-to-begin-hearing-583259">‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing</a></p>

<p>The provisions regarding marriage in Muslim Law, &nbsp;Special Marriage Act and Hindu Marriage Act were quoted by the government to justify its stand.</p>

<p>“Section 5 of the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) states the essential conditions of marriage. These provisions make it clear that any matrimonial ceremony between a bride and a groom shall be valid only if the age of the groom is not less than 21 years and the age of the bride is not less than 18 years,” the state government said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the Act, marriage between two persons of the opposite sex is considered valid, and the minimum age of separation has been fixed for them. Thus, marriage is a sacrament in Hinduism,” it further added.</p>

<p>“Son born from heterosexual marriages liberates 21 generations from sin - 10 from past generations and 10 from future generations - including self. Therefore, matrimonial belief in Hinduism is connected to the birth of a son. Marriage in Muslim law is considered a contract between man and woman," the government argued.</p>

<p>“Nikah (marriage) in Muslim law has three components 1. A willing couple 2. Witness, and 3. Mehr. The concepts of "mehr" and "iddat" also resolve that even in Muslim law, marriages are valid only between two persons of the opposite sex, where mehr is seen as a gift from the groom to the bride as a token of respect,” it said in its reply.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Asssam government said, “It may be said that even across cross-sections of societies, the legal understanding of marriage has been that of an agreement/contract between two persons of opposite genders."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Central government files affidavit against same-sex marriage</strong></p>

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<p>“Marriage, divorce and ancillary subjects so related, fall under entry 5 of the Concurrent list of the Constitution and hence it is also in the domain of the state legislature in a manner that it is in the domain of Union Parliament,” it further stated.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the apex court earlier stated that Indian laws permit a person to adopt a child irrespective of his/her marital status as it asserted that the law does recognise situations which may not fit in the category of an “ideal family”, where couples have their own biological children.</p>

<p>The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in its submission, argued that the idea of gender may be “fluid” and may not be restricted to mothers and motherhood.</p>

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The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue.

The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue. "We have received seven responses from state governments. Rajasthan has taken a position that they have examined and opposed it, while the rest say that this needs an expansive debate," said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to the court. Various religions and underlined Acts, which fall under the Constitution, were quoted by the opposing states to support their stand against same-sex marriage. The Rajasthan government, opposing same-sex marriage's legalisation, said that people's sentiments were against homosexual marriages. ALSO READ | ‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing The provisions regarding marriage in Muslim Law, Special Marriage Act and Hindu Marriage Act were quoted by the government to justify its stand. “Section 5 of the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) states the essential conditions of marriage. These provisions make it clear that any matrimonial ceremony between a bride and a groom shall be valid only if the age of the groom is not less than 21 years and the age of the bride is not less than 18 years,” the state government said. “In the Act, marriage between two persons of the opposite sex is considered valid, and the minimum age of separation has been fixed for them. Thus, marriage is a sacrament in Hinduism,” it further added. “Son born from heterosexual marriages liberates 21 generations from sin - 10 from past generations and 10 from future generations - including self. Therefore, matrimonial belief in Hinduism is connected to the birth of a son. Marriage in Muslim law is considered a contract between man and woman," the government argued. “Nikah (marriage) in Muslim law has three components 1. A willing couple 2. Witness, and 3. Mehr. The concepts of "mehr" and "iddat" also resolve that even in Muslim law, marriages are valid only between two persons of the opposite sex, where mehr is seen as a gift from the groom to the bride as a token of respect,” it said in its reply. Meanwhile, the Asssam government said, “It may be said that even across cross-sections of societies, the legal understanding of marriage has been that of an agreement/contract between two persons of opposite genders." WATCH | Central government files affidavit against same-sex marriage “Marriage, divorce and ancillary subjects so related, fall under entry 5 of the Concurrent list of the Constitution and hence it is also in the domain of the state legislature in a manner that it is in the domain of Union Parliament,” it further stated. Meanwhile, the apex court earlier stated that Indian laws permit a person to adopt a child irrespective of his/her marital status as it asserted that the law does recognise situations which may not fit in the category of an “ideal family”, where couples have their own biological children. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in its submission, argued that the idea of gender may be “fluid” and may not be restricted to mothers and motherhood. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Rajasthan stands against same-sex marriage, 6 states demand time to examine matter

<p>To cut emissions across major Indian polluted cities, a government panel has recommended banning diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles&nbsp;by 2027.</p>

<p>A panel formed by the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas wants the government to ban diesel vehicles and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people</p>

<p>"By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric...diesel buses for city transport should not be added from 2024 onwards," the panel said in a report posted on the Oil Ministry's website, according to Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>However, the recommendations are merely advisory in nature and it should be placed before the Cabinet before any decision in this regard is implemented.</p>

<p>In order to proliferate electric vehicles on Indian roads, the panel has advised the government to consider "targeted extension" of incentives given under Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) to beyond March 31.</p>

<p>The FAME scheme was launched in April 2015 under the National Electric Mobility Mission to encourage electric and hybrid vehicle purchases by providing financial support.</p>

<p>India's annual emissions per person are less than the global average. In 2019 China is estimated to have emitted 27 per cent of world Green House Gas, followed by the US with 11 per cent then India with 6.6 per cent</p>

<p>Despite emitting fewer GHGs than the other developed countries, India has vowed to achieve its 2070 net zero goal by producing 40 per cent of its electricity from renewables.</p>

<p>Diesel is still primarily used in the transport sectors, which accounts for about 80 per cent of refined fuel consumption in India.</p>

<p>The panel said that new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles should be allowed from 2024 and suggested for higher use of railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo. The railway network is expected to be fully electric in two to three years.</p>

<p>Long-distance buses in India will have to be powered by electricity in the long-term, it said, adding that gas can be used as a transition fuel for 10-15 years.</p>

<p>India aims to raise the share of gas in its energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.2 per cent now.</p>

<p>The panel said India should consider building underground gas&nbsp;storage, equivalent to two months' demand as demand is expected to rise at a compound average growth rate of 9.78 per cent between 2020 and 2050.</p>

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To cut emissions across major Indian polluted cities, a government panel has recommended banning diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles by 2027. A panel formed by the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas wants the government to ban diesel vehicles and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people "By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric.

To cut emissions across major Indian polluted cities, a government panel has recommended banning diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles by 2027. A panel formed by the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas wants the government to ban diesel vehicles and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people "By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric...diesel buses for city transport should not be added from 2024 onwards," the panel said in a report posted on the Oil Ministry's website, according to Reuters news agency. However, the recommendations are merely advisory in nature and it should be placed before the Cabinet before any decision in this regard is implemented. In order to proliferate electric vehicles on Indian roads, the panel has advised the government to consider "targeted extension" of incentives given under Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) to beyond March 31. The FAME scheme was launched in April 2015 under the National Electric Mobility Mission to encourage electric and hybrid vehicle purchases by providing financial support. India's annual emissions per person are less than the global average. In 2019 China is estimated to have emitted 27 per cent of world Green House Gas, followed by the US with 11 per cent then India with 6.6 per cent Despite emitting fewer GHGs than the other developed countries, India has vowed to achieve its 2070 net zero goal by producing 40 per cent of its electricity from renewables. Diesel is still primarily used in the transport sectors, which accounts for about 80 per cent of refined fuel consumption in India. The panel said that new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles should be allowed from 2024 and suggested for higher use of railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo. The railway network is expected to be fully electric in two to three years. Long-distance buses in India will have to be powered by electricity in the long-term, it said, adding that gas can be used as a transition fuel for 10-15 years. India aims to raise the share of gas in its energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.2 per cent now. The panel said India should consider building underground gas storage, equivalent to two months' demand as demand is expected to rise at a compound average growth rate of 9.78 per cent between 2020 and 2050. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian govt asked to ban diesel-powered four wheelers by 2027

<p>India is holding multiple security review meetings and drills to ensure tight security in Jammu and Kashmir as the union territory prepares to host historic G20 meetings on May 22. Ajay Bhalla, Union Home Secretary on Tuesday (May 9) held a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar. Top officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Intelligence Bureau, Indian Army and paramilitary were present.</p>

<p>Security plans were discussed and finalised during the meeting. Upcoming G20 events in Srinagar will be the first in the city. India currently has the presidency of the G20 group of nations. The G20 meeting in Srinagar would be held at Sher E Kashmir International Convention Centre. Security has been strengthened at the venue. A huge number of security personnel can be seen guarding the venue.</p>

<p>India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is conducting daily security drills around the venue. The drills include anti-mine search and the use of trained sniffer dogs which are being used to sanitise the place. Bullet-proof vehicles are placed at all the entry and exit points of the venue. Soldiers as well as drones are involved in security arrangements to ensure 24x7 vigil. Marine commandos have been deployed around the Dal Lake for the very first time.</p>

<p>Indian Army's NSG Commandos will also be deployed for the protection of the delegates attending the meeting.</p>

<p>The security drills are being carried out by the CRPF thrice every day around the venue. The soldiers are sanitizing the area to ensure zero possibility of any untoward incident.</p>

<p>Security personnel have been put on high alert across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This has come after the recent Poonch attack and Rajouri encounter in which ten Indian army soldiers were killed. The search operation in the jungles of Poonch still continues. The forces have also intensified the anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley. Three encounters took place in different areas of North Kashmir recently in which 5 terrorists were gunned down by the forces.</p>

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir Police have specially trained around 600 soldiers in soft skills, who will be deployed during the event. The officials were also instructed to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies to gather information about any potential security threats and take necessary actions to neutralise them.</p>

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India is holding multiple security review meetings and drills to ensure tight security in Jammu and Kashmir as the union territory prepares to host historic G20 meetings on May 22.

India is holding multiple security review meetings and drills to ensure tight security in Jammu and Kashmir as the union territory prepares to host historic G20 meetings on May 22. Ajay Bhalla, Union Home Secretary on Tuesday (May 9) held a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar. Top officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Intelligence Bureau, Indian Army and paramilitary were present. Security plans were discussed and finalised during the meeting. Upcoming G20 events in Srinagar will be the first in the city. India currently has the presidency of the G20 group of nations. The G20 meeting in Srinagar would be held at Sher E Kashmir International Convention Centre. Security has been strengthened at the venue. A huge number of security personnel can be seen guarding the venue. India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is conducting daily security drills around the venue. The drills include anti-mine search and the use of trained sniffer dogs which are being used to sanitise the place. Bullet-proof vehicles are placed at all the entry and exit points of the venue. Soldiers as well as drones are involved in security arrangements to ensure 24x7 vigil. Marine commandos have been deployed around the Dal Lake for the very first time. Indian Army's NSG Commandos will also be deployed for the protection of the delegates attending the meeting. The security drills are being carried out by the CRPF thrice every day around the venue. The soldiers are sanitizing the area to ensure zero possibility of any untoward incident. Security personnel have been put on high alert across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This has come after the recent Poonch attack and Rajouri encounter in which ten Indian army soldiers were killed. The search operation in the jungles of Poonch still continues. The forces have also intensified the anti-terror operations in the Kashmir Valley. Three encounters took place in different areas of North Kashmir recently in which 5 terrorists were gunned down by the forces. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have specially trained around 600 soldiers in soft skills, who will be deployed during the event. The officials were also instructed to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies to gather information about any potential security threats and take necessary actions to neutralise them. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indian forces gear up to secure G20 meeting venue in Srinagar, drills underway

<p>A recent study has shown that United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the social capital of the world. The country nearly scored the perfect score as almost all residents have a Facebook account.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study published by Proxyrack noted the average number of social platforms used in the country and the percentage of the population that uses Facebook.</p>

<p>“With an almost perfect score of 9.55 out of 10, the UAE takes the top spot as the social media capital of the world. People in the UAE have an average of 8.2 social media platforms, the third highest in the world, joint with the Philippines. UAE also has the highest percentage of people with Facebook at over 100 per cent,” said Proxyrack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"UAE’s estimated percentage is over 100 per cent as there are more Facebook users registered in the UAE than the population," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/its-raining-in-uae-social-media-deluged-with-beautiful-images-videos-536505"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;It's raining in UAE ! Social media deluged with BEAUTIFUL images, videos</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the report, on average, the people of UAE spent&nbsp;seven and a half hours daily using the internet.&nbsp;The UAE is followed by Malaysia/the Philippines with both countries scoring 8.75, Saudi Arabia (8.41), Singapore (7.96), Vietnam (7.62), Brazil (7.62), Thailand (7.61), Indonesia (7.5) and Hong Kong (7.27).</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India stood on the 19th spot with only 29 per cent of the population using Facebook but spending nearly nine hours on the internet every day.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UAE emerges as the most connected country</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from leading the 'social media capitals' chart, UAE also topped the "most connected countries" list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The UAE is the most connected country in the world, with a connected score of 7.53/10. The UAE ranks highly in all but one of our categories. UAE has the highest percentage of its population connected to the internet and using Facebook. However, it’s also got the most expensive internet at just over $100," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-india-story-how-the-uae-and-india-built-up-their-special-relationship-570033"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The India Story | How the UAE and India built up their special relationship</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, when it comes to best internet access, UAE was dethroned by South Korea which received a score of 8.52 out of 10. Almost 98 per cent population of S Korea used the internet which costs $21 on average. The Arab country occupied the fourth spot with a 6.59 score.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"South Korea also has 140 mobile phone subscriptions per 100 people," the report noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to experts, the UAE, akin to the rest of the globe has witnessed an increase in internet usage after the coronavirus pandemic. After the pandemic struck, most individuals and entrepreneurs&nbsp;were forced to take their business online and the habit has since stuck, even in their personal lives - as the rising share of social media suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A recent study has shown that United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the social capital of the world. The country nearly scored the perfect score as almost all residents have a Facebook account.

A recent study has shown that United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the social capital of the world. The country nearly scored the perfect score as almost all residents have a Facebook account. The study published by Proxyrack noted the average number of social platforms used in the country and the percentage of the population that uses Facebook. “With an almost perfect score of 9.55 out of 10, the UAE takes the top spot as the social media capital of the world. People in the UAE have an average of 8.2 social media platforms, the third highest in the world, joint with the Philippines. UAE also has the highest percentage of people with Facebook at over 100 per cent,” said Proxyrack. "UAE’s estimated percentage is over 100 per cent as there are more Facebook users registered in the UAE than the population," it added. ALSO READ | It's raining in UAE ! Social media deluged with BEAUTIFUL images, videos According to the report, on average, the people of UAE spent seven and a half hours daily using the internet. The UAE is followed by Malaysia/the Philippines with both countries scoring 8.75, Saudi Arabia (8.41), Singapore (7.96), Vietnam (7.62), Brazil (7.62), Thailand (7.61), Indonesia (7.5) and Hong Kong (7.27). Meanwhile, India stood on the 19th spot with only 29 per cent of the population using Facebook but spending nearly nine hours on the internet every day. UAE emerges as the most connected country Apart from leading the 'social media capitals' chart, UAE also topped the "most connected countries" list. "The UAE is the most connected country in the world, with a connected score of 7.53/10. The UAE ranks highly in all but one of our categories. UAE has the highest percentage of its population connected to the internet and using Facebook. However, it’s also got the most expensive internet at just over $100," read the report. WATCH | The India Story | How the UAE and India built up their special relationship × However, when it comes to best internet access, UAE was dethroned by South Korea which received a score of 8.52 out of 10. Almost 98 per cent population of S Korea used the internet which costs $21 on average. The Arab country occupied the fourth spot with a 6.59 score. "South Korea also has 140 mobile phone subscriptions per 100 people," the report noted. According to experts, the UAE, akin to the rest of the globe has witnessed an increase in internet usage after the coronavirus pandemic. After the pandemic struck, most individuals and entrepreneurs were forced to take their business online and the habit has since stuck, even in their personal lives - as the rising share of social media suggested. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UAE emerges as social media capital of world, India comes 19th: Report

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<p>In what comes as a significant meeting that could potentially shape the future of West Asia and keep China at bay, the National Security Advisers of the US, UAE and India met in Saudi Arabia with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman playing the gracious host.</p>

<p>The objective of the meeting was to further expand a “shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the World."</p>

<p>According to a readout issued by the White House, US NSA Jake Sullivan held a meeting with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval, as the duo reviewed decisions taken in their last meeting (Feb 1) and charted plans to meet later this month in Sydney on the margins of the QUAD summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Advisor of India Ajit Doval on May 7 in Saudi Arabia to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world,” the White House said Sunday in a readout of the meeting.</p>

<p>Sullivan also held talks with his Saudi and UAE counterparts in an effort to repair the ties with the Sunni world.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why does the meeting assume significance?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, in the lead-up to the meeting, media reports claimed that the new grouping might announce plans to develop joint infrastructure that connects Gulf and Arab countries via a railway network and also extends to India via shipping lanes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The initiative would include connecting Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also connect to India through seaports in the Gulf," reports noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sullivan had hinted at developing the railway infrastructure after he talked about the I2U2 group which had proposed the&nbsp;project for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If you remember nothing else from my speech, remember I2U2, because you will be hearing more about it as we go forward," said Sullivan during his speech last week at the&nbsp;Washington Institute for Near East Policy.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/i2u2-virtual-summit-during-bidens-west-asia-trip-496822"><strong>WATCH | I2U2 virtual summit during Biden's West Asia trip</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/i2u2-virtual-summit-during-bidens-west-asia-trip-496822/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

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<p>However, after the meeting, all stakeholders remained tight-lipped on the issue. After China expanded its sphere of influence in the region by brokering peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Washington is attempting to bring the major powers together.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-us-saudi-arabia-and-uae-to-develop-major-joint-railway-infrastructure-report-589916" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | India, US, Saudi Arabia and UAE to develop joint railway infrastructure: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>According to experts, India can be the glue which binds the grouping. New Delhi has steady ties with Washington and the latter sees it as a natural ally to counter the threat of China on the global map. The Middle East is a key part of China's Belt and Road vision and the US believes that the joint initiative is the best way to counter Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In what comes as a significant meeting that could potentially shape the future of West Asia and keep China at bay, the National Security Advisers of the US, UAE and India met in Saudi Arabia with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman playing the gracious host.

In what comes as a significant meeting that could potentially shape the future of West Asia and keep China at bay, the National Security Advisers of the US, UAE and India met in Saudi Arabia with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman playing the gracious host. The objective of the meeting was to further expand a “shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the World." According to a readout issued by the White House, US NSA Jake Sullivan held a meeting with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval, as the duo reviewed decisions taken in their last meeting (Feb 1) and charted plans to meet later this month in Sydney on the margins of the QUAD summit. “National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Advisor of India Ajit Doval on May 7 in Saudi Arabia to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world,” the White House said Sunday in a readout of the meeting. Sullivan also held talks with his Saudi and UAE counterparts in an effort to repair the ties with the Sunni world. Why does the meeting assume significance? Notably, in the lead-up to the meeting, media reports claimed that the new grouping might announce plans to develop joint infrastructure that connects Gulf and Arab countries via a railway network and also extends to India via shipping lanes. "The initiative would include connecting Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also connect to India through seaports in the Gulf," reports noted. Sullivan had hinted at developing the railway infrastructure after he talked about the I2U2 group which had proposed the project for the first time. “If you remember nothing else from my speech, remember I2U2, because you will be hearing more about it as we go forward," said Sullivan during his speech last week at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. WATCH | I2U2 virtual summit during Biden's West Asia trip × However, after the meeting, all stakeholders remained tight-lipped on the issue. After China expanded its sphere of influence in the region by brokering peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Washington is attempting to bring the major powers together. ALSO READ | India, US, Saudi Arabia and UAE to develop joint railway infrastructure: Report According to experts, India can be the glue which binds the grouping. New Delhi has steady ties with Washington and the latter sees it as a natural ally to counter the threat of China on the global map. The Middle East is a key part of China's Belt and Road vision and the US believes that the joint initiative is the best way to counter Beijing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NSAs of US, India, UAE meet in Saudi Arabia as China expands West Asia footprint

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