<p>Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.</p>

<p>The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said.</p>

<p>Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri.</p>

<p>The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected&nbsp;to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv&nbsp;and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September.</p>

<p>“India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal</strong></h2>

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<p>Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported.</p>

<p>The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit.</p>

<p>So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table.</p>

<p>India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year.</p>

<p>Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova will make a four-day visit to India starting Monday (April 9), making it the first official visit of a minister from Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion. The visit will focus on bilateral relations, exchanging views on the current situation in Ukraine, and global issues of mutual interest, officials said. Dzhaparova is also expected to meet Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, and Deputy National Security Adviser, Vikram Misri. The Hindu newspaper reported that the Ukrainian minister is expected to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kyiv and suggest New Delhi to invite President Volodymyr Zelensky to the G20 Summit in September. “India shares warm and friendly relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ukraine. Over the last 30 years of establishing diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation between the two countries has made significant progress in the areas of trade, education, culture and defence. The visit will be an occasion to further mutual understanding and interests," India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Russia threatens to pull the trigger on Black Sea grain deal Additionally, the minister will also request more humanitarian aid, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and energy equipment to repair power infrastructure damaged during the war, the newspaper reported. The report further states that the Urainian minister, a former journalist, will call on India to send a "strong message for peace" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is due to visit India in July for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and is due back in September for G20 summit. So far, India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, and has repeatedly urged both parties to shun violence and get back to the discussion table. India has also abstained on all resolutions passed against Russia in the various UN bodies, including at the UN General Assembly. The latest one was passed by the UN human rights council on April 4 which extended the mandate of the commission of inquiry into alleged war crimes by Russia for a year. Despite facing pressures from US and the West to follow its sanction model, India has remained steadfast in its foreign policy, and has refused to join either faction, the latter being the Russia-China axis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian minister to arrive Monday on first India visit since Russian invasion; seek G20 invite for Zelensky

<p>India's Supreme Court on Wednesday quashed the central government's ban on the telecast of the Malayalam language channel 'MediaOne', ruling that "national security claims can't be made out of thin hair." A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud observed that the State can't impose unreasonable restrictions on the press as such an action would have chilling effects on press freedom.</p>

<p>The top court alleged that the State is using national security as a tool to deny citizens remedies that are provided under the law.</p>

<p>"National security claims cannot be made out of thin air, there must be material facts backing it," said the bench.</p>

<p>The bench also set aside a Kerala High Court&nbsp;order, which had upheld the Centre's ban on the channel on "security grounds."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-embraces-open-source-software-to-boost-tech-industry-amid-layoffs-579487">India embraces open-source software to boost tech industry amid layoffs</a></strong></p>

<p>Kerala's ruling party and opposition leaders have both welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to quash the ban and said the order gives hope to people fighting to protect democratic principles and the Constitution.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I welcome the SupremeCourt decision revoking the ban on Malayalam TV channel <a href="https://twitter.com/MediaOne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MediaOne</a>. "National security can't deny people their rights... it was raised by the MHA in a cavalier manner," said the SC:<a href="https://t.co/pFqCnz2tQ8">https://t.co/pFqCnz2tQ8</a><br />
The judgement robustly affirms press freedom. Shabash!</p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1643502516301119488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Thiruvananthapuram MP&nbsp;Shashi Tharoor took to Twitter and applauded the move. He said: "I welcome the SupremeCourt decision revoking the ban on Malayalam TV channel @MediaOne."</p>

<p>"The judgement robustly affirms press freedom. Shabash!," added the Congress leader. MediaOne editor Pramod Raman also posted a tweet saying, "Thanks to all".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ml">എല്ലാവർക്കും നന്ദി! <a href="https://t.co/T9apdKxvkg">pic.twitter.com/T9apdKxvkg</a></p>
— Pramod Raman (@PramodRaman10) <a href="https://twitter.com/PramodRaman10/status/1643507092823904256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's apex court said that a channel's critical views on government policies cannot be termed as anti-establishment and that an independent press is necessary for a robust democracy.</p>

<p>It said the "press has a duty to speak truth to power and present citizens with hard facts enabling them to make choices that propel democracy in the right direction. The restriction on freedom of press compels citizens to think along the same tangent."</p>

<p>"Homogenised views on issues that range from socio-economic polity to political ideologies would pose great dangers to democracy," added the bench. It also said that "non-renewal of license for a channel is a restriction on the right to freedom of speech."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-kills-his-12th-wife-after-being-stopped-from-drinking-reports-579461">Indian man kills his 12th wife after being stopped from drinking: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>The top court, as per PTI, also said that the government's non-disclosure of reasons for the denial of security reasons and disclosure only to the court in sealed cover amounted to a violation of the principles of natural justice. "Sealed cover procedure cannot be introduced to cover harms that cannot be remedied by public immunity proceedings," said the bench.&nbsp;It further said courts should appoint an amicus curiae to assess the claims of confidentiality and assist the court in coming out with a reasoned order.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India's Supreme Court on Wednesday quashed the central government's ban on the telecast of the Malayalam language channel 'MediaOne', ruling that "national security claims can't be made out of thin hair.

India's Supreme Court on Wednesday quashed the central government's ban on the telecast of the Malayalam language channel 'MediaOne', ruling that "national security claims can't be made out of thin hair." A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud observed that the State can't impose unreasonable restrictions on the press as such an action would have chilling effects on press freedom. The top court alleged that the State is using national security as a tool to deny citizens remedies that are provided under the law. "National security claims cannot be made out of thin air, there must be material facts backing it," said the bench. The bench also set aside a Kerala High Court order, which had upheld the Centre's ban on the channel on "security grounds." Also read | India embraces open-source software to boost tech industry amid layoffs Kerala's ruling party and opposition leaders have both welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to quash the ban and said the order gives hope to people fighting to protect democratic principles and the Constitution. I welcome the SupremeCourt decision revoking the ban on Malayalam TV channel @MediaOne. "National security can't deny people their rights... it was raised by the MHA in a cavalier manner," said the SC:https://t.co/pFqCnz2tQ8 The judgement robustly affirms press freedom. Shabash! — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) April 5, 2023 × Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor took to Twitter and applauded the move. He said: "I welcome the SupremeCourt decision revoking the ban on Malayalam TV channel @MediaOne." "The judgement robustly affirms press freedom. Shabash!," added the Congress leader. MediaOne editor Pramod Raman also posted a tweet saying, "Thanks to all". എല്ലാവർക്കും നന്ദി! pic.twitter.com/T9apdKxvkg — Pramod Raman (@PramodRaman10) April 5, 2023 × India's apex court said that a channel's critical views on government policies cannot be termed as anti-establishment and that an independent press is necessary for a robust democracy. It said the "press has a duty to speak truth to power and present citizens with hard facts enabling them to make choices that propel democracy in the right direction. The restriction on freedom of press compels citizens to think along the same tangent." "Homogenised views on issues that range from socio-economic polity to political ideologies would pose great dangers to democracy," added the bench. It also said that "non-renewal of license for a channel is a restriction on the right to freedom of speech." Also read | Indian man kills his 12th wife after being stopped from drinking: Reports The top court, as per PTI, also said that the government's non-disclosure of reasons for the denial of security reasons and disclosure only to the court in sealed cover amounted to a violation of the principles of natural justice. "Sealed cover procedure cannot be introduced to cover harms that cannot be remedied by public immunity proceedings," said the bench. It further said courts should appoint an amicus curiae to assess the claims of confidentiality and assist the court in coming out with a reasoned order. (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.

'National security claims cannot be made out of thin air': Indian SC quashes centre's ban on MediaOne

<p>International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots.</p>

<p>She said that while the world will grow at less than 3 per cent, half of it will be accounted for by the two Asian giants.</p>

<p>“The period of slower economic activity will be prolonged, with the next five years witnessing less than 3 per cent growth, our lowest medium-term growth forecast since 1990, and well below the average of 3.8 per cent from the past two decades," the IMF chief said on Thursday.</p>

<p>"Some momentum comes from emerging economies —Asia especially is a bright spot. India and China are expected to account for half of the global growth in 2023. But others face a steeper climb," she added.</p>

<p>She said that lower-income countries would be hit the hardest, as they will find it difficult to grow amidst a global slowdown.</p>

<p>"Poverty and hunger could further increase, a dangerous trend that was started by the Covid crisis," she said.</p>

<h2><strong>India's Central Bank pauses on rate hikes; RBI on standby mode </strong></h2>

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<p>Georgieva’s remarks come ahead of the next week’s meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, where policy-makers will convene to discuss the global economy's most pressing issues.</p>

<p>While the West, including the EU, is facing fresh headwinds in the wake of the banking collapse, India’s economic growth has so far been resilient.</p>

<p>About 90 per cent of advanced economies are projected to see a decline in their growth rates this year, she said.</p>

<p>The IMF chief’s projections are closely aligned with the Reserve Bank of India’s estimates, which has pegged India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 7 per cent for 2023.</p>

<p>While announcing RBI’s first bi-monthly monetary policy statement of FY24 on Thursday, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that India’s real GDP growth for FY24 is projected at 6.5 per cent, with Q1 at 7.8 per cent, Q2 at 6.2 per cent, Q3 at 6.1 per cent, and Q4 at 5.9 per cent.</p>

<p>“The global economy is witnessing a renewed phase of turbulence with fresh headwinds from the banking sector turmoil in advanced economies," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that a sharp slowdown will continue in 2023, with India and China remaining to be the only bright spots. She said that while the world will grow at less than 3 per cent, half of it will be accounted for by the two Asian giants. “The period of slower economic activity will be prolonged, with the next five years witnessing less than 3 per cent growth, our lowest medium-term growth forecast since 1990, and well below the average of 3.8 per cent from the past two decades," the IMF chief said on Thursday. "Some momentum comes from emerging economies —Asia especially is a bright spot. India and China are expected to account for half of the global growth in 2023. But others face a steeper climb," she added. She said that lower-income countries would be hit the hardest, as they will find it difficult to grow amidst a global slowdown. "Poverty and hunger could further increase, a dangerous trend that was started by the Covid crisis," she said. India's Central Bank pauses on rate hikes; RBI on standby mode Georgieva’s remarks come ahead of the next week’s meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, where policy-makers will convene to discuss the global economy's most pressing issues. While the West, including the EU, is facing fresh headwinds in the wake of the banking collapse, India’s economic growth has so far been resilient. About 90 per cent of advanced economies are projected to see a decline in their growth rates this year, she said. The IMF chief’s projections are closely aligned with the Reserve Bank of India’s estimates, which has pegged India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 7 per cent for 2023. While announcing RBI’s first bi-monthly monetary policy statement of FY24 on Thursday, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that India’s real GDP growth for FY24 is projected at 6.5 per cent, with Q1 at 7.8 per cent, Q2 at 6.2 per cent, Q3 at 6.1 per cent, and Q4 at 5.9 per cent. “The global economy is witnessing a renewed phase of turbulence with fresh headwinds from the banking sector turmoil in advanced economies," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India, China to account for half of global growth in 2023, as IMF chief warns of ‘sharp slowdown’

<p>The Indian government approved the recommendations of a gas panel report, on Thursday (April 6) which would fix the cost of natural gas by imposing a cap or ceiling price and help lower the cost of compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas prices (PNG) by up to 10 per cent. The new price cap will come into effect from Saturday, in a bid to control inflation and a major relief to consumers across the country.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Changes to the pricing mechanism</strong></p>

<p>The announcement, on Thursday, was made by the country’s Information Minister Anurag Thakur after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PNG will be cheaper by 10 per cent while CNG will cost at least six to nine per cent lesser, said Thakur while addressing a press conference and adding that the government will issue a notification in this regard on Friday (April 6) which will come into effect on Saturday (April 8).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the natural gas produced from legacy or old fields will now be indexed to the crude oil price as opposed to pricing it based on gas prices in surplus nations such as the United States, Canada and Russia, said the information minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The price will also apply to industrial buyers and companies in the fertiliser and city gas distribution sectors which will be fixed on a monthly basis, reported Reuters. Notably, old fields mostly operated by Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd (OIL) account for around 80 per cent of India’s annual gas output of about 91 billion cubic metres. The lower prices are set to hit the earnings of these companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The approved revised domestic natural gas pricing guidelines will be imposed for&nbsp;gas produced from nomination fields of ONGC/OIL, New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) blocks and pre-NELP blocks where&nbsp;the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) provides for the government’s approval of prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The price of such natural gas shall be 10 per cent of the monthly average of Indian Crude Basket and shall be notified on a monthly basis,” said the government, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The gas produced by ONGC and OIL from their nomination blocks and&nbsp;the administered price mechanism (APM) shall be subject to a floor and a ceiling. However, the gas produced from new wells or well interventions in the nomination fields of ONGC and OIL would be allowed a premium of 20 per cent over the APM price, the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Previous pricing guidelines</strong></p>

<p>Currently, the domestic gas prices are determined as per the new Domestic Gas Pricing Guidelines, 2014, approved by the government in the same year and provide for the declaration of domestic gas prices for a six-month period based on the volume-weighted prices prevailing at four gas trading hubs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trading hubs in question are Henry Hub, Albena, National Balancing Point (United Kingdom), and Russia for a period of 12 months and a time lag of a quarter. However, the previous guidelines based on the four gas hubs had a “significant time lag and very high volatility,” said the government. Therefore, the revised guidelines will make prices linked to crude oil, a practice now followed in most industry contracts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Why now?</strong></p>

<p>Last year, the Indian government set up a committee led by energy expert Kirit Parikh to review gas prices and determine a pricing formula that takes into account the interests of both local consumers and producers. The panel was also asked to ensure after state-set prices of gas from old fields and a ceiling price for output from hard-to-access blocks rose to record highs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The new guidelines are intended to ensure stable pricing regime for domestic gas consumers while at the same time providing adequate protection to producers from adverse market fluctuation with incentives for enhancing production,” said the government in a statement. Furthermore, the reduced prices shall also lower the fertiliser subsidy burden and help the domestic power sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This also comes as the government aims to transition to a gas-based economy and PM Modi’s aim to raise the share of gas in India’s energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.2 per cent. Furthermore, it will also contribute to India’s ‘net zero’ carbon-emission goal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The panel has since recommended a price range for current production from legacy or old fields. After the announcement, the Indian PM took to Twitter and wrote, “The Cabinet decision relating to revised domestic gas pricing has many benefits for the consumers. It is a positive development for the sector.”</p>

<p><strong>Expected price changes in CNG and PNG</strong></p>

<p>In the national capital, Delhi the current price of CNG is expected to reduce from Rs. 79.56 per kg ($0.97) to 73.59 ($0.90), whereas the price of PNG is expected to drop from Rs. 53.59 ($0.66) per thousand cubic metres to Rs. 47.59 ($0.58). Meanwhile, in Mumbai, CNG is expected to cost Rs. 79 ($0.97) per kg instead of Rs. 87 ($1.06) while PNG may drop to cost Rs. 49 ($0.60) per Standard Cubic Meter (SCM) from the current Rs. 54 ($0.66).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government approved the recommendations of a gas panel report, on Thursday (April 6) which would fix the cost of natural gas by imposing a cap or ceiling price and help lower the cost of compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas prices (PNG) by up to 10 per cent.

The Indian government approved the recommendations of a gas panel report, on Thursday (April 6) which would fix the cost of natural gas by imposing a cap or ceiling price and help lower the cost of compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas prices (PNG) by up to 10 per cent. The new price cap will come into effect from Saturday, in a bid to control inflation and a major relief to consumers across the country. Changes to the pricing mechanism The announcement, on Thursday, was made by the country’s Information Minister Anurag Thakur after a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PNG will be cheaper by 10 per cent while CNG will cost at least six to nine per cent lesser, said Thakur while addressing a press conference and adding that the government will issue a notification in this regard on Friday (April 6) which will come into effect on Saturday (April 8). This comes as the natural gas produced from legacy or old fields will now be indexed to the crude oil price as opposed to pricing it based on gas prices in surplus nations such as the United States, Canada and Russia, said the information minister. The price will also apply to industrial buyers and companies in the fertiliser and city gas distribution sectors which will be fixed on a monthly basis, reported Reuters. Notably, old fields mostly operated by Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd (OIL) account for around 80 per cent of India’s annual gas output of about 91 billion cubic metres. The lower prices are set to hit the earnings of these companies. The approved revised domestic natural gas pricing guidelines will be imposed for gas produced from nomination fields of ONGC/OIL, New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) blocks and pre-NELP blocks where the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) provides for the government’s approval of prices. “The price of such natural gas shall be 10 per cent of the monthly average of Indian Crude Basket and shall be notified on a monthly basis,” said the government, in a statement. The gas produced by ONGC and OIL from their nomination blocks and the administered price mechanism (APM) shall be subject to a floor and a ceiling. However, the gas produced from new wells or well interventions in the nomination fields of ONGC and OIL would be allowed a premium of 20 per cent over the APM price, the statement added. Previous pricing guidelines Currently, the domestic gas prices are determined as per the new Domestic Gas Pricing Guidelines, 2014, approved by the government in the same year and provide for the declaration of domestic gas prices for a six-month period based on the volume-weighted prices prevailing at four gas trading hubs. The trading hubs in question are Henry Hub, Albena, National Balancing Point (United Kingdom), and Russia for a period of 12 months and a time lag of a quarter. However, the previous guidelines based on the four gas hubs had a “significant time lag and very high volatility,” said the government. Therefore, the revised guidelines will make prices linked to crude oil, a practice now followed in most industry contracts. Why now? Last year, the Indian government set up a committee led by energy expert Kirit Parikh to review gas prices and determine a pricing formula that takes into account the interests of both local consumers and producers. The panel was also asked to ensure after state-set prices of gas from old fields and a ceiling price for output from hard-to-access blocks rose to record highs. “The new guidelines are intended to ensure stable pricing regime for domestic gas consumers while at the same time providing adequate protection to producers from adverse market fluctuation with incentives for enhancing production,” said the government in a statement. Furthermore, the reduced prices shall also lower the fertiliser subsidy burden and help the domestic power sector. This also comes as the government aims to transition to a gas-based economy and PM Modi’s aim to raise the share of gas in India’s energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.2 per cent. Furthermore, it will also contribute to India’s ‘net zero’ carbon-emission goal. The panel has since recommended a price range for current production from legacy or old fields. After the announcement, the Indian PM took to Twitter and wrote, “The Cabinet decision relating to revised domestic gas pricing has many benefits for the consumers. It is a positive development for the sector.” Expected price changes in CNG and PNG In the national capital, Delhi the current price of CNG is expected to reduce from Rs. 79.56 per kg ($0.97) to 73.59 ($0.90), whereas the price of PNG is expected to drop from Rs. 53.59 ($0.66) per thousand cubic metres to Rs. 47.59 ($0.58). Meanwhile, in Mumbai, CNG is expected to cost Rs. 79 ($0.97) per kg instead of Rs. 87 ($1.06) while PNG may drop to cost Rs. 49 ($0.60) per Standard Cubic Meter (SCM) from the current Rs. 54 ($0.66). (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.

Explained | India: CNG, PNG to cost less after revision in domestic gas pricing. Here’s how

<p>The Indian government has tweaked the rules for online gaming by prohibiting games that involve betting and wagering.</p>

<p>The prohibition was listed on Thursday by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) which released a framework of multiple self-regulatory organisations (SROs).</p>

<p>These SROs will determine whether internet games are legal based on whether they allow wagering.</p>

<p>The new guidelines define online game&nbsp;as “that is offered on the internet and is accessible to a user through a computer resource or an intermediary.”</p>

<p>These SROs are part of the IT Rules, 2023, passed by the ministry and pave&nbsp;the way for the establishment of a self-regulatory body for the registration and regulation of online gaming platforms as "intermediary" which is defined as one that "offers one or more than one online game".</p>

<p><strong>New gaming guidelines</strong></p>

<p>Minister of State for Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, while speaking to media on Thursday differentiated between “online game” and “online real money game”, claiming that the latter has been banned.</p>

<p>“We see the Indian online gaming ecosystem to expand and grow into a multi-billion dollar industry and be an important catalyst to India’s one trillion-dollar digital economy goal by 2025-26, with very clear restrictions on online wagering and betting,” the minister said at a press conference.</p>

<p>“We’re dealing with a framework that allows an SRO, and there will be multiple SROs, to determine whether or not all online gaming is permissible,” Chandrasekhar added.</p>

<p>According to the guidelines, the government will designate various SROs comprising industry representatives, educators, and other professionals such as child experts, psychology experts, and so on, according to the final guidelines.</p>

<p>The government is going to notify three SROs, but more might be added later, he said.</p>

<p>The online gaming industry has been flourishing in India for the past four to five years or so, and accounts for $1.8 billion of the gaming market, mostly fuelled by mobile games.</p>

<p>A report by the Boston Consulting Group and Sequoia on India's mobile gaming sector shows that more than 300 million Indians play mobile games, and the gaming sector as a whole has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 38 per cent in 2019-2020 and 37 per cent in the previous fiscal year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government has tweaked the rules for online gaming by prohibiting games that involve betting and wagering. The prohibition was listed on Thursday by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) which released a framework of multiple self-regulatory organisations (SROs).

The Indian government has tweaked the rules for online gaming by prohibiting games that involve betting and wagering. The prohibition was listed on Thursday by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) which released a framework of multiple self-regulatory organisations (SROs). These SROs will determine whether internet games are legal based on whether they allow wagering. The new guidelines define online game as “that is offered on the internet and is accessible to a user through a computer resource or an intermediary.” These SROs are part of the IT Rules, 2023, passed by the ministry and pave the way for the establishment of a self-regulatory body for the registration and regulation of online gaming platforms as "intermediary" which is defined as one that "offers one or more than one online game". New gaming guidelines Minister of State for Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, while speaking to media on Thursday differentiated between “online game” and “online real money game”, claiming that the latter has been banned. “We see the Indian online gaming ecosystem to expand and grow into a multi-billion dollar industry and be an important catalyst to India’s one trillion-dollar digital economy goal by 2025-26, with very clear restrictions on online wagering and betting,” the minister said at a press conference. “We’re dealing with a framework that allows an SRO, and there will be multiple SROs, to determine whether or not all online gaming is permissible,” Chandrasekhar added. According to the guidelines, the government will designate various SROs comprising industry representatives, educators, and other professionals such as child experts, psychology experts, and so on, according to the final guidelines. The government is going to notify three SROs, but more might be added later, he said. The online gaming industry has been flourishing in India for the past four to five years or so, and accounts for $1.8 billion of the gaming market, mostly fuelled by mobile games. A report by the Boston Consulting Group and Sequoia on India's mobile gaming sector shows that more than 300 million Indians play mobile games, and the gaming sector as a whole has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 38 per cent in 2019-2020 and 37 per cent in the previous fiscal year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian govt tightens screws on online gaming, bans betting and wagering

<p>The daughter of former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has accused the Government of India of curbing her fundamental rights by issuing a conditional passport after a year of court litigation. Iltija Mufti has alleged that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) branch of Jammu and Kashmir Police has been misleading the court with different lies and are opposing the issuance of a passport to her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iltija Mufti was issued a passport valid only for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and for a limited period of two years. Iltija, 35, had approached the Jammu and Kashmir high court after the travel document was denied by the regional passport office, citing an adverse report from CID.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference at Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters in Srinagar, Iltija Mufti said “CID and Deputy Solicitor General is pressuring me to withdraw my petition in court, but I will not withdraw my petition as I have full faith in judiciary”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iltija further said that “the passport officer is lying when he says that I’m going to the UAE for further studies, instead I have stated in my application that I want to go UK (United Kingdom) or any other country for pursuing higher studies”.</p>

<p>“Despite knowing I'm not involved in any FIR or any other anti-national activity, how come the passport officer issued me a conditional passport just before the hearing in court. She said it’s ‘Andher Nagri’ here as the passport office is putting blame on the CID department and CID is putting blame on the passport office. In between I'm the actual sufferer,” said Iltija Mufti.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iltija has decided to further fight for her rights. Meanwhile, the regional passport officer, Srinagar has said that after two years, an assessment will be done, and a decision will be taken accordingly on the further validity of Iltija's passport.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The daughter of former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has accused the Government of India of curbing her fundamental rights by issuing a conditional passport after a year of court litigation.

The daughter of former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has accused the Government of India of curbing her fundamental rights by issuing a conditional passport after a year of court litigation. Iltija Mufti has alleged that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) branch of Jammu and Kashmir Police has been misleading the court with different lies and are opposing the issuance of a passport to her. Iltija Mufti was issued a passport valid only for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and for a limited period of two years. Iltija, 35, had approached the Jammu and Kashmir high court after the travel document was denied by the regional passport office, citing an adverse report from CID. Addressing a press conference at Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters in Srinagar, Iltija Mufti said “CID and Deputy Solicitor General is pressuring me to withdraw my petition in court, but I will not withdraw my petition as I have full faith in judiciary”. Iltija further said that “the passport officer is lying when he says that I’m going to the UAE for further studies, instead I have stated in my application that I want to go UK (United Kingdom) or any other country for pursuing higher studies”. “Despite knowing I'm not involved in any FIR or any other anti-national activity, how come the passport officer issued me a conditional passport just before the hearing in court. She said it’s ‘Andher Nagri’ here as the passport office is putting blame on the CID department and CID is putting blame on the passport office. In between I'm the actual sufferer,” said Iltija Mufti. Iltija has decided to further fight for her rights. Meanwhile, the regional passport officer, Srinagar has said that after two years, an assessment will be done, and a decision will be taken accordingly on the further validity of Iltija's passport. 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: Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter slams government over issuance of conditional passport

<p>China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture.</p>

<p>For instance, China named the two rivers as “Qiburi He” and “Geduo He”, however, it did not provide the co-ordinate of both the rivers, as its civil affairs ministry simply claimed that these were “specific locations”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-condemns-meeting-between-us-house-speaker-and-taiwan-president-vows-resolute-response-579595">China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response</a></p>

<p>In the list, they called a “piece of land” as “Bangqin” in the forested mountainous area ahead of Zemithang, which is the last village of India in the Tawang district, close to the McMahon Line which demarcates the border of the two nations.</p>

<p>The exercise was dismissed by the official sources as China's “mere mischief” ahead of the Cope India IAF-US Air Force air combat exercise to be held from April 10 to 21 at Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal.</p>

<p>The list was released by China’s ministry of civil affairs on April 2, using both Tibetan and Chinese pinyin - which is the system of writing native words and names in the Latin alphabet on the basis of pronunciation.</p>

<p>The list, which was the third of its kind, was described by China as an “addition of publicly used place names in southern Tibet” along with administrative districts, select co-ordinates and categories.</p>

<p>China's list included one entry of a settlement named “Jiangkazong”, whose co-ordinates are of a house mapped to Tawang town, which is west of the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya.</p>

<p>The list includes co-ordinates of another settlement named “Dadong” which refer to a large open space marked as part of Tato town in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh as per Google Maps.</p>

<p>China has renamed another “piece of land” as “Guyutong” which actually is a forest clearing near Lohit River's western bank, north of Kibithoo in eastern Arunachal's Anjaw district.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | China renames places in India's Arunachal Pradesh state</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-renames-places-in-indias-arunachal-pradesh-state-579078/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The co-ordinates mentioned for “Luosu Ri”, “Diepu Ri”, “Dongzila Feng”, “Nimagang Feng” and “Jiuniuze Gangri” are acutally mountain tops which are spread across the northeastern state's different locations.</p>

<p>While claims made by China have been dismissed by India, the Chinese foreign ministry has been asserting “sovereign right” on the 11 places listed. It continues to claim that they belong to “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”.</p>

<p>White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, in a statement, said that the United States opposed any “unilateral attempts to advance a territory claim by renaming localities”.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture.

China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture. For instance, China named the two rivers as “Qiburi He” and “Geduo He”, however, it did not provide the co-ordinate of both the rivers, as its civil affairs ministry simply claimed that these were “specific locations”. ALSO READ | China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response In the list, they called a “piece of land” as “Bangqin” in the forested mountainous area ahead of Zemithang, which is the last village of India in the Tawang district, close to the McMahon Line which demarcates the border of the two nations. The exercise was dismissed by the official sources as China's “mere mischief” ahead of the Cope India IAF-US Air Force air combat exercise to be held from April 10 to 21 at Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal. The list was released by China’s ministry of civil affairs on April 2, using both Tibetan and Chinese pinyin - which is the system of writing native words and names in the Latin alphabet on the basis of pronunciation. The list, which was the third of its kind, was described by China as an “addition of publicly used place names in southern Tibet” along with administrative districts, select co-ordinates and categories. China's list included one entry of a settlement named “Jiangkazong”, whose co-ordinates are of a house mapped to Tawang town, which is west of the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya. The list includes co-ordinates of another settlement named “Dadong” which refer to a large open space marked as part of Tato town in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh as per Google Maps. China has renamed another “piece of land” as “Guyutong” which actually is a forest clearing near Lohit River's western bank, north of Kibithoo in eastern Arunachal's Anjaw district. WATCH | China renames places in India's Arunachal Pradesh state The co-ordinates mentioned for “Luosu Ri”, “Diepu Ri”, “Dongzila Feng”, “Nimagang Feng” and “Jiuniuze Gangri” are acutally mountain tops which are spread across the northeastern state's different locations. While claims made by China have been dismissed by India, the Chinese foreign ministry has been asserting “sovereign right” on the 11 places listed. It continues to claim that they belong to “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, in a statement, said that the United States opposed any “unilateral attempts to advance a territory claim by renaming localities”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China renames non-existent ‘piece of land’, rivers in India's Arunachal Pradesh

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<p>Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with&nbsp;the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019. The discovery of the woman's headless body had perplexed the officers and the authorities at the time.</p>

<p>Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah on Tuesday said it was only after the body of the woman was identified in January earlier this year that the cold case was thrown into overdrive. A total of 12 culprits took part in the killing while seven remain at large.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The five planned the killing of the woman. A total of 12 people took part," Barah was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India's richest shrine Tirupati Balaji temple fires 1,300 contract workers</strong></p>

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<p>An individual named Pradeep Pathak, a 52-year-old government worker, hailing from Varanasi, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been identified as the lynchpin of the killing. He allegedly undertook the sacrifice to mark the anniversary of his brother's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The accused apparently believed that the sacrifice would appease the soul of the deceased,” added Barah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to authorities, it was 64-year-old Shanti Shaw that was decapitated with a machete in 2019 at the Kamakhya Temple - one of the primary Shakti peeths (sacred place of eternal power) in Hinduism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She had travelled to the temple to pray and attend the famous Ambubachi Mela before her tragic demise made the news. The body without the head was discovered on June 19-20, 2019. A man named Suresh Shaw from the state of West Bengal claimed that his mother had visited the temple but never returned.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-state-to-build-3000-temples-to-protect-and-propagate-hindu-faith-567232" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Indian state to build 3,000 temples to ‘protect and propagate Hindu faith’</strong></a></p>

<p>According to local media reports, the police have discovered a bag belonging to the victim, along with the Aadhar card and a train ticket to Guwahati.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Between 2014 and 2021, as many as 103 cases of human sacrifice have been reported in India, according to National Crime Records Bureau data.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019.

Indian police in the northeastern state of Assam have arrested five men in connection with the alleged sacrifice of a woman at a Hindu temple in the capital city of Guwahati in 2019. The discovery of the woman's headless body had perplexed the officers and the authorities at the time. Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah on Tuesday said it was only after the body of the woman was identified in January earlier this year that the cold case was thrown into overdrive. A total of 12 culprits took part in the killing while seven remain at large. “The five planned the killing of the woman. A total of 12 people took part," Barah was quoted as saying by AFP. ALSO WATCH | India's richest shrine Tirupati Balaji temple fires 1,300 contract workers An individual named Pradeep Pathak, a 52-year-old government worker, hailing from Varanasi, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been identified as the lynchpin of the killing. He allegedly undertook the sacrifice to mark the anniversary of his brother's death. “The accused apparently believed that the sacrifice would appease the soul of the deceased,” added Barah. According to authorities, it was 64-year-old Shanti Shaw that was decapitated with a machete in 2019 at the Kamakhya Temple - one of the primary Shakti peeths (sacred place of eternal power) in Hinduism. She had travelled to the temple to pray and attend the famous Ambubachi Mela before her tragic demise made the news. The body without the head was discovered on June 19-20, 2019. A man named Suresh Shaw from the state of West Bengal claimed that his mother had visited the temple but never returned. ALSO READ | Indian state to build 3,000 temples to ‘protect and propagate Hindu faith’ According to local media reports, the police have discovered a bag belonging to the victim, along with the Aadhar card and a train ticket to Guwahati. Between 2014 and 2021, as many as 103 cases of human sacrifice have been reported in India, according to National Crime Records Bureau data. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Police arrest five over decapitating woman at temple as sacrifice in 2019

<p>Ahead of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar’s visit to the Dominican Republic, the country’s Ambassador to India, David Puig has said that visit will give a “big boost” in ties between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's&nbsp;diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador David said, “we are preparing for a historic visit in the month end, end of April...(visit) shows relationship is growing”. Trade between both countries stood at $1 billion in 2021 and India opened its mission in the country last year as well.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, an exhibition on “Hand-Painted Signs from India and the Dominican Republic” showcasing the vibrant art and culture of India and the Dominican Republic has also opened in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The photographs by Aradhana Seth and Maurice Sánchez captured the essence of the traditional hand-painted signs, which are a common sight in the streets of India and the Dominican Republic has been put in the exhibition at the Open Courtyard of the India Habitat Centre New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, who was present at the event, highlighted the similarities between the two countries and the importance of promoting art at the grassroots level.</p>

<p>Talking about EAM Jaishankar’s visit to the Dominican Republic, Puig said, “We are preparing for a historic visit this month. At the end of April, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar would travel to the Dominican Republic. This will be the first time that External Affairs Minister from India will travel to our country.”</p>

<p>He also said there has been a lot of engagement between India and the Caribbean. “I will say not only the Caribbean, let’s talk about the whole Latin American and Caribbean region. So, we see an increase of visits, the trade between at least the Dominican Republic and India has been growing steadily. In 2021 we reach $1 billion of trade, and we are developing the cooperation, we are looking for cooperation in areas in which we have not worked together.”</p>

<p>Puig added few announcements will be made during his trip.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Ahead of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar’s visit to the Dominican Republic, the country’s Ambassador to India, David Puig has said that visit will give a “big boost” in ties between the two countries.

Ahead of External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar’s visit to the Dominican Republic, the country’s Ambassador to India, David Puig has said that visit will give a “big boost” in ties between the two countries. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador David said, “we are preparing for a historic visit in the month end, end of April...(visit) shows relationship is growing”. Trade between both countries stood at $1 billion in 2021 and India opened its mission in the country last year as well. Meanwhile, an exhibition on “Hand-Painted Signs from India and the Dominican Republic” showcasing the vibrant art and culture of India and the Dominican Republic has also opened in Delhi. The photographs by Aradhana Seth and Maurice Sánchez captured the essence of the traditional hand-painted signs, which are a common sight in the streets of India and the Dominican Republic has been put in the exhibition at the Open Courtyard of the India Habitat Centre New Delhi. The Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, who was present at the event, highlighted the similarities between the two countries and the importance of promoting art at the grassroots level. Talking about EAM Jaishankar’s visit to the Dominican Republic, Puig said, “We are preparing for a historic visit this month. At the end of April, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar would travel to the Dominican Republic. This will be the first time that External Affairs Minister from India will travel to our country.” He also said there has been a lot of engagement between India and the Caribbean. “I will say not only the Caribbean, let’s talk about the whole Latin American and Caribbean region. So, we see an increase of visits, the trade between at least the Dominican Republic and India has been growing steadily. In 2021 we reach $1 billion of trade, and we are developing the cooperation, we are looking for cooperation in areas in which we have not worked together.” Puig added few announcements will be made during his trip. 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.

EAM Jaishankar's visit to Dominican Republic to boost bilateral ties, says Ambassador David Puig

<p>India and Malaysia have agreed to settle trade-related payments in Indian rupees, the New Delhi government has announced.</p>

<p>The Indian foreign ministry made the announcement on Saturday and follows the directive of the country’s central bank—the Reserve Bank of India—which has been pushing for the settlement of international trade in Indian currency.</p>

<p>The move comes in the wake of India making efforts to shift away from US dollars—the dominant reserve currency for international trade—as it has been appreciating against the local currency in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p>“Trade between India and Malaysia can now be settled in Indian Rupee (INR) in addition to the current modes of settlement in other currencies,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.</p>

<p>“This follows the decision by the Reserve Bank of India in July 2022 to allow the settlement of international trade in the Indian Rupee (INR). This initiative by RBI is aimed at facilitating the growth of global trade and to support the interests of the global trading community in Indian rupees.”</p>

<p>To facilitate settlement in Indian rupee, the Union Bank of India has opened a Special Rupee Vostro Account through its “corresponding bank” in Malaysia — India International Bank of Malaysia, based in Kuala Lumpur.</p>

<p>Vostro accounts are used to make payments in domestic currency.</p>

<p>In a separate statement, the India International Bank of Malaysia said, "IIBM now offers the facility to settle India-Malaysia bilateral trade in Indian Rupee (INR)...This new mechanism is also aligned with Malaysia's foreign exchange policies (FEP) as part of which Malaysian banks are allowed to undertake the settlement of international trade in goods or services in any foreign currency, subject to the rules and regulations of Bank Negara Malaysia."</p>

<p>"Under this facility, exporters and importers from India and Malaysia can now invoice the trade in Indian Rupee (INR) and achieve better pricing for goods and services traded. IIBM will facilitate the traders in Malaysia for settlement of this trade in Indian Rupee (INR). For this purpose, IIBM has opened a Special Rupee Vostro Account through its Corresponding Bank in India i.e. Union Bank of India," IIBM said.</p>

<p>Malaysia is the 27th largest investor in India with foreign direct investment of $ 300 million between April 2000 and June last year. The total FDI into India totalled around $ 298.8 million.</p>

<p>While the bilateral trade between both countries touched $13.86 billion in April-November 2022.</p>

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India and Malaysia have agreed to settle trade-related payments in Indian rupees, the New Delhi government has announced. The Indian foreign ministry made the announcement on Saturday and follows the directive of the country’s central bank—the Reserve Bank of India—which has been pushing for the settlement of international trade in Indian currency.

India and Malaysia have agreed to settle trade-related payments in Indian rupees, the New Delhi government has announced. The Indian foreign ministry made the announcement on Saturday and follows the directive of the country’s central bank—the Reserve Bank of India—which has been pushing for the settlement of international trade in Indian currency. The move comes in the wake of India making efforts to shift away from US dollars—the dominant reserve currency for international trade—as it has been appreciating against the local currency in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war. “Trade between India and Malaysia can now be settled in Indian Rupee (INR) in addition to the current modes of settlement in other currencies,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. “This follows the decision by the Reserve Bank of India in July 2022 to allow the settlement of international trade in the Indian Rupee (INR). This initiative by RBI is aimed at facilitating the growth of global trade and to support the interests of the global trading community in Indian rupees.” To facilitate settlement in Indian rupee, the Union Bank of India has opened a Special Rupee Vostro Account through its “corresponding bank” in Malaysia — India International Bank of Malaysia, based in Kuala Lumpur. Vostro accounts are used to make payments in domestic currency. In a separate statement, the India International Bank of Malaysia said, "IIBM now offers the facility to settle India-Malaysia bilateral trade in Indian Rupee (INR)...This new mechanism is also aligned with Malaysia's foreign exchange policies (FEP) as part of which Malaysian banks are allowed to undertake the settlement of international trade in goods or services in any foreign currency, subject to the rules and regulations of Bank Negara Malaysia." "Under this facility, exporters and importers from India and Malaysia can now invoice the trade in Indian Rupee (INR) and achieve better pricing for goods and services traded. IIBM will facilitate the traders in Malaysia for settlement of this trade in Indian Rupee (INR). For this purpose, IIBM has opened a Special Rupee Vostro Account through its Corresponding Bank in India i.e. Union Bank of India," IIBM said. Malaysia is the 27th largest investor in India with foreign direct investment of $ 300 million between April 2000 and June last year. The total FDI into India totalled around $ 298.8 million. While the bilateral trade between both countries touched $13.86 billion in April-November 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India and Malaysia dump dollar, to settle trade in Indian rupee

<p>Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuk landed in India’s capital New Delhi on Monday,&nbsp;commencing this three-day visit to the nation.</p>

<p>India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar received him at the airport. Later, he took to Twitter saying that his visit will further strengthen the "close and unique ties" between the two countries.</p>

<p>"Honoured to welcome His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on his arrival in India. His visit will further strengthen the close and unique India-Bhutan partnership."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Honoured to welcome His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on his arrival in India.<br />
<br />
His visit will further strengthen the close and unique India-Bhutan partnership. <a href="https://t.co/o1lqYYJlVn">pic.twitter.com/o1lqYYJlVn</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1642813087861608449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Bhutan monarch is accompanied by the country’s foreign minister Tandi Dorji and other senior officials.</p>

<p>During the visit, the king is expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, where high-level exchanges between the two nations will take place.</p>

<p>Earlier in a statement, the MEA pointed out the "unique ties of friendship and co-operation characterised by understanding and mutual trust" between the two countries, and said that the visit would "provide an opportunity to both the sides to review the entire gamut of bilateral co-operation and to further advance the close bilateral partnership, including economic and development co-operation."</p>

<p>The visit has been in the works for some time now and is likely to be followed by the visit of another neighbour of India—Nepal PM Prachanda to Delhi.</p>

<p>The two nations have enjoyed a close partnership that extends beyond traditional areas of co-operation.</p>

<p>&nbsp;During the Covid pandemic, India was the first country to respond the country’s medical needs. It had sent 13 consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan and was the first country to provide Indian-made Covishield vaccines to Bhutan.</p>

<p>Additionally, India has consistently been Bhutan's top trading partner and remains the leading source of investments in the country.</p>

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Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuk landed in India’s capital New Delhi on Monday, commencing this three-day visit to the nation. India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar received him at the airport.

Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuk landed in India’s capital New Delhi on Monday, commencing this three-day visit to the nation. India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar received him at the airport. Later, he took to Twitter saying that his visit will further strengthen the "close and unique ties" between the two countries. "Honoured to welcome His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on his arrival in India. His visit will further strengthen the close and unique India-Bhutan partnership." Honoured to welcome His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on his arrival in India. His visit will further strengthen the close and unique India-Bhutan partnership. pic.twitter.com/o1lqYYJlVn — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 3, 2023 × The Bhutan monarch is accompanied by the country’s foreign minister Tandi Dorji and other senior officials. During the visit, the king is expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, where high-level exchanges between the two nations will take place. Earlier in a statement, the MEA pointed out the "unique ties of friendship and co-operation characterised by understanding and mutual trust" between the two countries, and said that the visit would "provide an opportunity to both the sides to review the entire gamut of bilateral co-operation and to further advance the close bilateral partnership, including economic and development co-operation." The visit has been in the works for some time now and is likely to be followed by the visit of another neighbour of India—Nepal PM Prachanda to Delhi. The two nations have enjoyed a close partnership that extends beyond traditional areas of co-operation. During the Covid pandemic, India was the first country to respond the country’s medical needs. It had sent 13 consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan and was the first country to provide Indian-made Covishield vaccines to Bhutan. Additionally, India has consistently been Bhutan's top trading partner and remains the leading source of investments in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuk arrives in India, kicks off three-day visit

<p>India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, is set to travel to Guyana and the Dominican Republic later this month. The visit to Guyana comes at a time when there have been three high-level visits from Guyana to India this year, including the visits of President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess. The key focus of India-Guyana ties has been on energy, with India importing crude oil from the country.</p>

<p>In January, President Ali spoke to WION and stated, "We have agreed to set up 2 technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation." The diaspora has been another pillar of the relationship, with approximately 327,000 Guyanese citizens of Indian descent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indians migrated to Guyana, especially from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, during the time of British colonialism. In fact, President Ali himself is of Indian origin and was invited to the Pravasi Bharatiya Sammelan in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Defence has been another element of cooperation, with Guyana keen to get defence platforms from India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Dominican Republic will be another key stop during Dr. Jaishankar's visit as New Delhi increases its engagement with the Caribbean region. Diplomatic relations between India and the Dominican Republic were established in May 1999.</p>

<p>At present, there are approximately 200 Indian nationals and people of Indian origin living in the country. India's engagement with the Caribbean region has been on the rise in recent years, with the Indian government seeking to deepen economic and political ties with the region.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, is set to travel to Guyana and the Dominican Republic later this month. The visit to Guyana comes at a time when there have been three high-level visits from Guyana to India this year, including the visits of President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr.

India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, is set to travel to Guyana and the Dominican Republic later this month. The visit to Guyana comes at a time when there have been three high-level visits from Guyana to India this year, including the visits of President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess. The key focus of India-Guyana ties has been on energy, with India importing crude oil from the country. In January, President Ali spoke to WION and stated, "We have agreed to set up 2 technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation." The diaspora has been another pillar of the relationship, with approximately 327,000 Guyanese citizens of Indian descent. The Indians migrated to Guyana, especially from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, during the time of British colonialism. In fact, President Ali himself is of Indian origin and was invited to the Pravasi Bharatiya Sammelan in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Defence has been another element of cooperation, with Guyana keen to get defence platforms from India. The Dominican Republic will be another key stop during Dr. Jaishankar's visit as New Delhi increases its engagement with the Caribbean region. Diplomatic relations between India and the Dominican Republic were established in May 1999. At present, there are approximately 200 Indian nationals and people of Indian origin living in the country. India's engagement with the Caribbean region has been on the rise in recent years, with the Indian government seeking to deepen economic and political ties with the region. 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.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to travel to Guyana, Dominican Republic this month

<p>The Indian government is looking to purchase a new spyware system that is “less exposed” than the controversial Israel-based NSO’s Pegasus, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper has reported quoting unnamed government officials.</p>

<p>According to the report, the Narendra Modi government has earmarked $120 million as it prepares for an auction to finalise the deal. More than two dozen companies are expected to partake in the bidding process.</p>

<p>The Indian government never officially acknowledged of having used the spyware made by the NSO group, following reports that it was used to snoop on Indian journalists, politicians and human rights activists.</p>

<p>The FT report mentions that Indian officials have already set their sights on several Pegasus competitors.</p>

<p>Among the known Pegasus rivals are Predator, which is developed by Greece-headquartered Intellexa with the help of Israeli military veterans.</p>

<p>And the others in contention are Quadream—which is also being eyed by Saudi Arabia—and Cognyte—which was spun out of publicly traded Verint, and had its stock dumped by Norway’s sovereign wealth fund after an investigation by Meta found widespread abuse, the report said.</p>

<p>The talks within the ministry of defence over India’s new spyware contracts are in the advanced stages. However, it could still take weeks to issue a formal “Request for Proposals”, FT reported citing two people with knowledge of the talks.</p>

<p>In August last year, the Indian Supreme Court appointed a committee to probe whether the Indian government ordered “unauthorised” surveillance on targeted individuals. They found no conclusive evidence on&nbsp;the use of Pegasus spyware in phones examined by it.</p>

<p>After the controversy had erupted, Ashwani Vaishnaw, the Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, reiterated that all electronic interception follows due process of law.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government is looking to purchase a new spyware system that is “less exposed” than the controversial Israel-based NSO’s Pegasus, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper has reported quoting unnamed government officials.

The Indian government is looking to purchase a new spyware system that is “less exposed” than the controversial Israel-based NSO’s Pegasus, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper has reported quoting unnamed government officials. According to the report, the Narendra Modi government has earmarked $120 million as it prepares for an auction to finalise the deal. More than two dozen companies are expected to partake in the bidding process. The Indian government never officially acknowledged of having used the spyware made by the NSO group, following reports that it was used to snoop on Indian journalists, politicians and human rights activists. The FT report mentions that Indian officials have already set their sights on several Pegasus competitors. Among the known Pegasus rivals are Predator, which is developed by Greece-headquartered Intellexa with the help of Israeli military veterans. And the others in contention are Quadream—which is also being eyed by Saudi Arabia—and Cognyte—which was spun out of publicly traded Verint, and had its stock dumped by Norway’s sovereign wealth fund after an investigation by Meta found widespread abuse, the report said. The talks within the ministry of defence over India’s new spyware contracts are in the advanced stages. However, it could still take weeks to issue a formal “Request for Proposals”, FT reported citing two people with knowledge of the talks. In August last year, the Indian Supreme Court appointed a committee to probe whether the Indian government ordered “unauthorised” surveillance on targeted individuals. They found no conclusive evidence on the use of Pegasus spyware in phones examined by it. After the controversy had erupted, Ashwani Vaishnaw, the Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, reiterated that all electronic interception follows due process of law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India mulling to purchase new spyware rivalling Pegasus: Report

<p>This March India logged some of the most significant and drastic shifts in weather patterns when compared to the historical averages. According to the data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the first two weeks of March 2023 were among the hottest while in the second half of the month, the country witnessed some of the coolest days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by Hindustan Times, the temperature by the end of the second half of the month was enough to possibly put the whole month in the top 10 coldest moths of March in the past 73 years or so. Towards mid-March, an earlier-than-usual development of anti-cyclonic circulation in India brought what could be one of the earliest and most significant heatwaves in India. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-could-get-heatwaves-that-exceed-threshold-for-human-survival-report-576307">India could get heat waves that exceed threshold for human survival: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as between March 13 and 19, temperatures in the plains of North India were at least 10 degree Celsius above normal, while it was up to 15 degree Celsius in the Himalayan states. Meanwhile, the temperature was above normal by at least five to 10 degree Celsius in the rest of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, India recorded its average maximum up to March 29 at 30.35 degrees Celsius, as per the data from IMD gridded dataset, reported HT, which was 0.96 degrees below the 1981-2010 average for this time period and was also considered usual by the weather agency. However, March was also the 12th coolest since 1951, the first time that IMD gridded data and also the complete opposite of its preceding month which was the 13th warmest since over seven decades ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-temperature-hits-record-high-in-mumbai-for-second-time-in-march-571570">&nbsp;India: Temperature hits record high in Mumbai, for second time in March</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, the IMD did not forecast the month of March to be a cool one as by the end of February the weather agency said that it is expected to be warmer than usual. However, after the first two weeks temperatures climbed down in most parts of India and on average each day has been at least 1.3 degree Celsius cooler than normal, reported HT.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-hottest-february-since-1901-imd-shares-forecast-from-march-to-may-567303">India records hottest February since 1901; IMD shares forecast from March to May</a></strong></p>

<p>The report attributed two possible two active western disturbances, cyclonic circulations over Rajasthan and a region of low pressure over the south and east central part of India, citing IMD data. Additionally, the westerly winds of over 100 km/hr along with the moisture from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea due to anti-cyclonic circulation there led to sustained rainfall, thunderstorm, and even hailstorm.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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This March India logged some of the most significant and drastic shifts in weather patterns when compared to the historical averages. According to the data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the first two weeks of March 2023 were among the hottest while in the second half of the month, the country witnessed some of the coolest days.

This March India logged some of the most significant and drastic shifts in weather patterns when compared to the historical averages. According to the data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the first two weeks of March 2023 were among the hottest while in the second half of the month, the country witnessed some of the coolest days. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the temperature by the end of the second half of the month was enough to possibly put the whole month in the top 10 coldest moths of March in the past 73 years or so. Towards mid-March, an earlier-than-usual development of anti-cyclonic circulation in India brought what could be one of the earliest and most significant heatwaves in India. ALSO READ | India could get heat waves that exceed threshold for human survival: Report This comes as between March 13 and 19, temperatures in the plains of North India were at least 10 degree Celsius above normal, while it was up to 15 degree Celsius in the Himalayan states. Meanwhile, the temperature was above normal by at least five to 10 degree Celsius in the rest of the country. However, India recorded its average maximum up to March 29 at 30.35 degrees Celsius, as per the data from IMD gridded dataset, reported HT, which was 0.96 degrees below the 1981-2010 average for this time period and was also considered usual by the weather agency. However, March was also the 12th coolest since 1951, the first time that IMD gridded data and also the complete opposite of its preceding month which was the 13th warmest since over seven decades ago. ALSO READ | India: Temperature hits record high in Mumbai, for second time in March Notably, the IMD did not forecast the month of March to be a cool one as by the end of February the weather agency said that it is expected to be warmer than usual. However, after the first two weeks temperatures climbed down in most parts of India and on average each day has been at least 1.3 degree Celsius cooler than normal, reported HT. ALSO READ | India records hottest February since 1901; IMD shares forecast from March to May The report attributed two possible two active western disturbances, cyclonic circulations over Rajasthan and a region of low pressure over the south and east central part of India, citing IMD data. Additionally, the westerly winds of over 100 km/hr along with the moisture from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea due to anti-cyclonic circulation there led to sustained rainfall, thunderstorm, and even hailstorm. 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 witnessed drastic shift in weather patterns in March: Here’s what happened

<p>Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is set to embark on an official visit to India from April 3-5 at the invitation of Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Announcing the visit, the Ministry of external affairs said that the visit is in "keeping with the long-standing tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries."</p>

<p>During his visit, the Bhutanese King will meet the Indian president and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and senior officials will also call on the king. Pointing to "unique ties of friendship and co-operation which are characterised by understanding and mutual trust" between the 2 countries, the MEA statement said that the visit would "provide an opportunity to both the sides to review the entire gamut of bilateral co-operation and to further advance the close bilateral partnership, including economic and development co-operation." The visit has been in the works for some time now and is likely to be followed by the visit of another neighbour of India—Nepal PM Prachanda to Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhutans-latest-comments-on-doklam-region-raise-concerns-for-india-576921">Lithuania looks to build bridges with India in high-tech and manufacturing: Vice Minister Karolis Žemaitis</a></p>

<p>The relationship between India and Bhutan has seen regular high-level visits, with PM Modi visiting Bhutan in August 2019 and the Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar visiting the country in 2019 and April 2022. In addition, foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra visited the Himalayan country in January 2023, while the Bhutanese King had a transit visit in September 2022 while going to the UK. The Prime Minister of Bhutan visited India in 2018 and 2019, and the Foreign Minister of Bhutan visited in 2019. The foreign secretary of Bhutan also visited India in August 2022.</p>

<p>The two countries have enjoyed a close partnership that extends beyond traditional areas of co-operation, with India providing special assistance to Bhutan during the COVID-19 pandemic. India sent 13 consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan and was the first country to provide Covishield vaccines to Bhutan.</p>

<p>India has also provided assistance to Bhutan's Five-Year Plans since 1961, with the latest assistance towards the XII FYP (2018-23) totalling Rs 4500 Cr for various multi-sectoral Project Tied Assistance, Small Development Projects, Direct Budgetary Support, and more. Hydro-power co-operation has provided clean power for India and economic prosperity for Bhutan, with a steady stream of revenue and positive growth even during the pandemic. India has installed over 2000 MW of capacity with four mega hydro projects since the 1980s, with two more under construction.</p>

<p>In addition, India has consistently been Bhutan's top trading partner and remains the leading source of investments in Bhutan. In November 2021, India formalised the opening of seven new trade routes for Bhutan's bilateral and transit trade with India, providing new market access for the formal export of 12 Agri-Products from Bhutan to India, and various special exceptions and quotas for exports.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Bhutan-China: New Tango? | Bhutan moving away India's embrace? | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The two countries have also collaborated in newer areas beyond traditional realms of co-operation, including new STEM-based initiatives, digital infrastructure such as the Third International Internet Gateway, and the integration of Bhutan's DrukRen with India's National Knowledge Network, key co-operation in the domain of e-Learning. Under financial co-operation/integration, the first phase of the RuPay project was launched, and India's Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) was also launched in July 2021.</p>

<p>Space co-operation is a new and promising area of bilateral co-operation, with both the prime ministers jointly inaugurating the Ground Earth Station of the South Asia Satellite (SAS) in Thimphu in 2019, constructed with the support of ISRO. A Memorandum of Understanding between India and Bhutan on co-operation in the peaceful uses of outer space was signed on November 19, 2020, and training of domain experts is underway. The India-Bhutan SAT was launched into space on November 26, 2022, by ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Earlier this month, ISRO chief S Somanath visited the country for the inauguration of Ground Earth Station.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is set to embark on an official visit to India from April 3-5 at the invitation of Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Announcing the visit, the Ministry of external affairs said that the visit is in "keeping with the long-standing tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.

Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is set to embark on an official visit to India from April 3-5 at the invitation of Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Announcing the visit, the Ministry of external affairs said that the visit is in "keeping with the long-standing tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries." During his visit, the Bhutanese King will meet the Indian president and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and senior officials will also call on the king. Pointing to "unique ties of friendship and co-operation which are characterised by understanding and mutual trust" between the 2 countries, the MEA statement said that the visit would "provide an opportunity to both the sides to review the entire gamut of bilateral co-operation and to further advance the close bilateral partnership, including economic and development co-operation." The visit has been in the works for some time now and is likely to be followed by the visit of another neighbour of India—Nepal PM Prachanda to Delhi. ALSO READ | Lithuania looks to build bridges with India in high-tech and manufacturing: Vice Minister Karolis Žemaitis The relationship between India and Bhutan has seen regular high-level visits, with PM Modi visiting Bhutan in August 2019 and the Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar visiting the country in 2019 and April 2022. In addition, foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra visited the Himalayan country in January 2023, while the Bhutanese King had a transit visit in September 2022 while going to the UK. The Prime Minister of Bhutan visited India in 2018 and 2019, and the Foreign Minister of Bhutan visited in 2019. The foreign secretary of Bhutan also visited India in August 2022. The two countries have enjoyed a close partnership that extends beyond traditional areas of co-operation, with India providing special assistance to Bhutan during the COVID-19 pandemic. India sent 13 consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan and was the first country to provide Covishield vaccines to Bhutan. India has also provided assistance to Bhutan's Five-Year Plans since 1961, with the latest assistance towards the XII FYP (2018-23) totalling Rs 4500 Cr for various multi-sectoral Project Tied Assistance, Small Development Projects, Direct Budgetary Support, and more. Hydro-power co-operation has provided clean power for India and economic prosperity for Bhutan, with a steady stream of revenue and positive growth even during the pandemic. India has installed over 2000 MW of capacity with four mega hydro projects since the 1980s, with two more under construction. In addition, India has consistently been Bhutan's top trading partner and remains the leading source of investments in Bhutan. In November 2021, India formalised the opening of seven new trade routes for Bhutan's bilateral and transit trade with India, providing new market access for the formal export of 12 Agri-Products from Bhutan to India, and various special exceptions and quotas for exports. WATCH | Bhutan-China: New Tango? | Bhutan moving away India's embrace? | World News | WION The two countries have also collaborated in newer areas beyond traditional realms of co-operation, including new STEM-based initiatives, digital infrastructure such as the Third International Internet Gateway, and the integration of Bhutan's DrukRen with India's National Knowledge Network, key co-operation in the domain of e-Learning. Under financial co-operation/integration, the first phase of the RuPay project was launched, and India's Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) was also launched in July 2021. Space co-operation is a new and promising area of bilateral co-operation, with both the prime ministers jointly inaugurating the Ground Earth Station of the South Asia Satellite (SAS) in Thimphu in 2019, constructed with the support of ISRO. A Memorandum of Understanding between India and Bhutan on co-operation in the peaceful uses of outer space was signed on November 19, 2020, and training of domain experts is underway. The India-Bhutan SAT was launched into space on November 26, 2022, by ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Earlier this month, ISRO chief S Somanath visited the country for the inauguration of Ground Earth Station. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bhutan's king to visit India to bolster ties, open new avenues of co-operation

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<p>Pakistan's government Twitter account has been withheld in India due to a 'legal demand', informed the microblogging site on Thursday. Anyone attempting to view the tweets on the handle was directed to a blank page with the message,&nbsp;"Account Withheld @GovtofPakistan's account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand."</p>

<p>According to Twitter's official statement, when such a message is displayed, Twitter is compelled to withhold the original tweet in response to a valid legal demand, such as a court order.</p>

<p>"If we receive a valid and properly scoped request from an authorised entity, it may be necessary to withhold access to certain content in a particular country from time to time," reads Twitter's official policy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Such withholdings will be limited to the specific jurisdiction that has issued the valid legal demand or where the content has been found to violate local law(s)."</p>

<p>The policy adds that the US-based company notifies the affected user (in this case the Pakistan government) unless they are prohibited by the&nbsp;court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Upon receipt of requests to withhold content, we will promptly notify affected users unless we are prohibited from doing so (ex: if we receive a court order under seal).&nbsp;When content has been withheld, we also clearly indicate within the product and publish requests to withhold content on Lumen—unless, similar to our practice of notifying users, we are prohibited from doing so."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-foreign-minister-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-calls-india-a-friend-then-retracts-570989"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari calls India a 'friend', then retracts</strong></a></p>

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<p>This is not the first instance when the Pakistan government's Twitter handle has been restricted from viewing in India. Last year in October and July, the account was withheld before being reactivated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian government has been taking a rather proactive stance in recent times against what it dubs anti-national elements. After launching an arrest campaign against separatist leader Amritpal Singh in the northern Indian state of Punjab, the government cracked the whip of several voices that supported Singh or his ideas of secessionism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistans-talking-of-talks-with-india-is-a-case-of-vagueness-wrapped-in-contradictions-inside-a-crisis-553739"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Pakistan's talking of talks with India is a case of vagueness wrapped in contradictions inside a crisis</strong></a></p>

<p>Canada's New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, Canadian poet Rupi Kaur, the voluntary organisation United Sikhs, and Canada-based activist Gurdeep Singh Sahota have been blocked.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Pakistan's government Twitter account has been withheld in India due to a 'legal demand', informed the microblogging site on Thursday. Anyone attempting to view the tweets on the handle was directed to a blank page with the message, "Account Withheld @GovtofPakistan's account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand.

Pakistan's government Twitter account has been withheld in India due to a 'legal demand', informed the microblogging site on Thursday. Anyone attempting to view the tweets on the handle was directed to a blank page with the message, "Account Withheld @GovtofPakistan's account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand." According to Twitter's official statement, when such a message is displayed, Twitter is compelled to withhold the original tweet in response to a valid legal demand, such as a court order. "If we receive a valid and properly scoped request from an authorised entity, it may be necessary to withhold access to certain content in a particular country from time to time," reads Twitter's official policy. "Such withholdings will be limited to the specific jurisdiction that has issued the valid legal demand or where the content has been found to violate local law(s)." The policy adds that the US-based company notifies the affected user (in this case the Pakistan government) unless they are prohibited by the court. "Upon receipt of requests to withhold content, we will promptly notify affected users unless we are prohibited from doing so (ex: if we receive a court order under seal). When content has been withheld, we also clearly indicate within the product and publish requests to withhold content on Lumen—unless, similar to our practice of notifying users, we are prohibited from doing so." WATCH | Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari calls India a 'friend', then retracts × This is not the first instance when the Pakistan government's Twitter handle has been restricted from viewing in India. Last year in October and July, the account was withheld before being reactivated. The Indian government has been taking a rather proactive stance in recent times against what it dubs anti-national elements. After launching an arrest campaign against separatist leader Amritpal Singh in the northern Indian state of Punjab, the government cracked the whip of several voices that supported Singh or his ideas of secessionism. ALSO READ | Pakistan's talking of talks with India is a case of vagueness wrapped in contradictions inside a crisis Canada's New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, Canadian poet Rupi Kaur, the voluntary organisation United Sikhs, and Canada-based activist Gurdeep Singh Sahota have been blocked. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan government's Twitter account withheld in India yet again

<p>National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the governing body of&nbsp;Unified Payment Interface (UPI) - India's prominent digital payment network -&nbsp; has announced it will be levying Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI) fees on merchant transactions, beginning April 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fee would be levied on transactions above Rs 2,000 ($24) which will result in&nbsp;an interchange at 1.1 per cent&nbsp;of the transaction value. Usually, the interchange fee is associated with card payments, used to cover the costs related to accepting, processing and authorising transactions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the broad fee of 1.1 per cent is applicable over the Rs 2000 limit, NPCI has set different merchant fee structures as well.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the interchange will be one per cent for mutual funds, insurance and railways, 0.9 per cent for supermarket, 0.7 per cent for telecom, education, agriculture and 0.5 per cent for fuel, according to the advisory.</p>

<p>Notably, the fee will not be applicable when the payment is made using a person-to-person transaction or person-to-merchant transaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Interchange shall not be applicable to P2P (peer to peer) and P2M (peer to merchant) transactions between “bank account and the PPI wallet,” reads the NPCI circular.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-upi-singapores-paynow-to-integrate-soon-says-an-official-at-a-g20-meeting-550946"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;India's UPI, Singapore's Paynow to integrate soon, says an official at a G20 meeting</strong></a></p>

<p>Though the jargon may sound confusing, a simple example ought to clear the new rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If an individual goes to buy a smartphone at a retailer's shop and scans the QR code to make the payment using a digital wallet, the customer will not have to pay anything extra. However, since the mobile phone is above the Rs 2,000 threshold, the merchant will have to pay a certain fee to the wallet service provider such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, if a customer wants to load more than Rs 2000 in their Paytm wallet, say using an Axis Bank savings account, Paytm will have to pay 0.15 per cent of the amount as fees to the bank. No additional charge will be levied on the customer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UPI's meteoric rise: India's UPI transactions rise over 7.82 billion in December 2022</strong></p>

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<p>The move has been brought in to help the wallet providers and banks who had not been able to earn any revenue despite scaling their operations countrywide. However, the one downside is that merchants, due to a lack of communication, may stop accepting UPI payments altogether. The reality is that share of digital wallets in UPI payments is significantly small and thus the charges may not burn a hole in merchants' pockets.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UPI's introduction in India</strong></h2>

<p>It was in 2016 that NPCI introduced the revolutionary UPI system. PhonePe was one of the first platforms to integrate UPI into its system. A year later, several competitors followed the suit and since then, UPI has transformed into a behemoth that even foreign nations are looking to get their hands on.</p>

<p>Singapore and Bhutan have already adopted UPI with a few more countries waiting to join the bandwagon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the governing body of Unified Payment Interface (UPI) - India's prominent digital payment network - has announced it will be levying Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI) fees on merchant transactions, beginning April 1.

National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the governing body of Unified Payment Interface (UPI) - India's prominent digital payment network - has announced it will be levying Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI) fees on merchant transactions, beginning April 1. The fee would be levied on transactions above Rs 2,000 ($24) which will result in an interchange at 1.1 per cent of the transaction value. Usually, the interchange fee is associated with card payments, used to cover the costs related to accepting, processing and authorising transactions. While the broad fee of 1.1 per cent is applicable over the Rs 2000 limit, NPCI has set different merchant fee structures as well. Reportedly, the interchange will be one per cent for mutual funds, insurance and railways, 0.9 per cent for supermarket, 0.7 per cent for telecom, education, agriculture and 0.5 per cent for fuel, according to the advisory. Notably, the fee will not be applicable when the payment is made using a person-to-person transaction or person-to-merchant transaction. “Interchange shall not be applicable to P2P (peer to peer) and P2M (peer to merchant) transactions between “bank account and the PPI wallet,” reads the NPCI circular. ALSO READ | India's UPI, Singapore's Paynow to integrate soon, says an official at a G20 meeting Though the jargon may sound confusing, a simple example ought to clear the new rules. If an individual goes to buy a smartphone at a retailer's shop and scans the QR code to make the payment using a digital wallet, the customer will not have to pay anything extra. However, since the mobile phone is above the Rs 2,000 threshold, the merchant will have to pay a certain fee to the wallet service provider such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. Similarly, if a customer wants to load more than Rs 2000 in their Paytm wallet, say using an Axis Bank savings account, Paytm will have to pay 0.15 per cent of the amount as fees to the bank. No additional charge will be levied on the customer. Watch | UPI's meteoric rise: India's UPI transactions rise over 7.82 billion in December 2022 The move has been brought in to help the wallet providers and banks who had not been able to earn any revenue despite scaling their operations countrywide. However, the one downside is that merchants, due to a lack of communication, may stop accepting UPI payments altogether. The reality is that share of digital wallets in UPI payments is significantly small and thus the charges may not burn a hole in merchants' pockets. UPI's introduction in India It was in 2016 that NPCI introduced the revolutionary UPI system. PhonePe was one of the first platforms to integrate UPI into its system. A year later, several competitors followed the suit and since then, UPI has transformed into a behemoth that even foreign nations are looking to get their hands on. Singapore and Bhutan have already adopted UPI with a few more countries waiting to join the bandwagon. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: UPI transactions to cost from April. Know what it means for you

<p>A&nbsp;resurgence in coronavirus cases&nbsp; has been driving up cases in India as it recorded 1,573 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking the active cases to 10,981, health ministry data released on Tuesday said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tuesday’s tally was slightly lower compared to Monday’s figures, in which 1,805 new coronavirus cases were reported.</p>

<p>The active cases now comprise 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national Covid-19 recovery rate has been reported at 98.79 per cent, according to the ministry.</p>

<p>The number of casualties also a jump to 5,30,841 with four deaths reconciled by Kerala.</p>

<p>The daily positivity rate has been recorded at 1.30 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 1.47 per cent.</p>

<p>The total tally of Covid cases was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,47,07, 525), the ministry said.</p>

<p>The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has increased to 4,41,65,703, the data stated. The case fatality rate has been recorded at 1.19 per cent.</p>

<p>According to the ministry's website, 22 billion doses of Covid vaccine have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.</p>

<p>The uptick in the number of cases is attributed to the new XBB.1.16 variant. So far, 610 cases of the new mutation have been found across India.</p>

<p>Maharashtra and Gujarat states have recorded the most cases of this variant at 164 each, followed by 93 in Telangana and 86 in Karnataka, according to data by the government agency INSACO.</p>

<p>The XBB 1.16 variant was first found in January when two samples tested positive for the variant.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the federal government has asked the states to review preparedness for pandemic management and the progress of vaccination.</p>

<p>Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan chaired the high-level meeting on Monday where he stressed on ramping up testing with a higher proportion of RT-PCR, and whole genome sequencing of positive samples.</p>

<p>He urged people to follow COVID-19-appropriate behaviour at all times and stressed the need to increase the administration of precautionary doses, especially in the vulnerable population group</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A resurgence in coronavirus cases has been driving up cases in India as it recorded 1,573 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking the active cases to 10,981, health ministry data released on Tuesday said.

A resurgence in coronavirus cases has been driving up cases in India as it recorded 1,573 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking the active cases to 10,981, health ministry data released on Tuesday said. Tuesday’s tally was slightly lower compared to Monday’s figures, in which 1,805 new coronavirus cases were reported. The active cases now comprise 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national Covid-19 recovery rate has been reported at 98.79 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of casualties also a jump to 5,30,841 with four deaths reconciled by Kerala. The daily positivity rate has been recorded at 1.30 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 1.47 per cent. The total tally of Covid cases was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,47,07, 525), the ministry said. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has increased to 4,41,65,703, the data stated. The case fatality rate has been recorded at 1.19 per cent. According to the ministry's website, 22 billion doses of Covid vaccine have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. The uptick in the number of cases is attributed to the new XBB.1.16 variant. So far, 610 cases of the new mutation have been found across India. Maharashtra and Gujarat states have recorded the most cases of this variant at 164 each, followed by 93 in Telangana and 86 in Karnataka, according to data by the government agency INSACO. The XBB 1.16 variant was first found in January when two samples tested positive for the variant. Meanwhile, the federal government has asked the states to review preparedness for pandemic management and the progress of vaccination. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan chaired the high-level meeting on Monday where he stressed on ramping up testing with a higher proportion of RT-PCR, and whole genome sequencing of positive samples. He urged people to follow COVID-19-appropriate behaviour at all times and stressed the need to increase the administration of precautionary doses, especially in the vulnerable population group WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India logs 1,573 new Covid cases, four deaths; states huddle up to review pandemic preparedness

<p>Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan. The reports were later confirmed by Israel’s embassy in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Histadrut, Israel’s largest labour union, instructed all government employees to go on strike, including Israel's diplomatic missions around the world. The embassy of Israel will be closed today until further notice and no consular services will be provided”, said the Israeli embassy in India, in a statement. The strike by officials of all Israeli missions in India and across the world will remain until it is called off.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-israel-can-tens-of-thousands-of-protesters-stop-netanyahus-judicial-overhaul-plan-576345">Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>The walkouts were announced in a televised address by Histadrut chairman Arnon Bar-David who said, “I am calling a general strike. We have a mission to stop this legislative process and we will do it.” This has since prompted workers from a range of sectors in Israel to launch a nationwide strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel’s largest trade union called for its 800,000 members to stop work in healthcare, transit, banking and other fields. Subsequently, the Israel Medical Association also announced a “full strike” of the country’s healthcare system, directly affecting all public hospitals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-judicial-overhaul-legislation-to-be-put-on-hold-until-next-knesset-session-576348">Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The strike also affected Ben-Gurion Airport. Israel’s Airport Authority Committee Chairman Pinhas Idan announced that no flights will take off from the airport until further notice and that only flights that are already in the sky will be allowed to land. The announcements also came amid widespread demonstrations which continued on Monday, a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan.

Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan. The reports were later confirmed by Israel’s embassy in India. “The Histadrut, Israel’s largest labour union, instructed all government employees to go on strike, including Israel's diplomatic missions around the world. The embassy of Israel will be closed today until further notice and no consular services will be provided”, said the Israeli embassy in India, in a statement. The strike by officials of all Israeli missions in India and across the world will remain until it is called off. ALSO READ | Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened The walkouts were announced in a televised address by Histadrut chairman Arnon Bar-David who said, “I am calling a general strike. We have a mission to stop this legislative process and we will do it.” This has since prompted workers from a range of sectors in Israel to launch a nationwide strike. Israel’s largest trade union called for its 800,000 members to stop work in healthcare, transit, banking and other fields. Subsequently, the Israel Medical Association also announced a “full strike” of the country’s healthcare system, directly affecting all public hospitals. ALSO READ | Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session The strike also affected Ben-Gurion Airport. Israel’s Airport Authority Committee Chairman Pinhas Idan announced that no flights will take off from the airport until further notice and that only flights that are already in the sky will be allowed to land. The announcements also came amid widespread demonstrations which continued on Monday, a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. (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.

Israeli embassies across the world closed ‘until further notice’: Here’s why

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidLZrcQcfh0C6s" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Following the massive success of 'Project Tiger' in India which has seen an exponential rise in the numbers of big cats, the Centre is mulling translocating a few of these majestic animals to Cambodia where it&nbsp;has become extinct.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cambodia last reported the sighting of a tiger in 2007 when it was caught on a jungle camera trap. After India successfully translocated a batch of African cheetahs last September, a&nbsp;memorandum of understanding was also signed with Cambodia in November to assist with the reintroduction of tigers in the Southeast Asian nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The translocation of our tigers to Cambodia is under consideration. This has never been done in India before, although we have been translocating tigers within the country as and when it has been required," said&nbsp;S P Yadav,&nbsp;member secretary, National Tiger Conservation Authority, referring to the translocation of tigers from Corbett (Uttarakhand) to Rajaji National Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’ve sent a delegation there [Cambodia], they’ve sent a delegation here. We are examining the situation in Cambodia to see if tiger translocation can be done."</p>

<p>The officer added that in order to make the translocation possible, the authorities are studying if the factors that led to the extinction of tigers in the first place were resolved or not.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Next month will mark the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger which began in 1973 at the Corbett national park. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend a conference in Mysore and laud the efforts of wildlife conservation activists and officials involved whilst releasing tiger census data for 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-india-is-saving-the-tigers-401597"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: How India is saving the tigers</strong></a></p>

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<p>Considering the six per cent annual growth observed in the population of tigers in the last few years, some experts say that it cannot be ruled out that the numbers may have swelled past 3,500, according to 2022 Tiger census findings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-indian-state-is-opening-up-another-sanctuary-for-asiatic-lions-as-numbers-grow-exponentially-572574" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | This Indian state is opening up another sanctuary for Asiatic lions as numbers grow exponentially</strong></a></p>

<p>After India reached an alarming level of only 1,411 big cats in 2006, following the vanishing of tigers in the Sariska reserve in the northern&nbsp;Indian state of Rajasthan, successive governments stepped up the protection programmes,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, a significant improvement has been observed&nbsp;and currently, India harbours 70 per cent of the global population of tigers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Following the massive success of 'Project Tiger' in India which has seen an exponential rise in the numbers of big cats, the Centre is mulling translocating a few of these majestic animals to Cambodia where it has become extinct.

Following the massive success of 'Project Tiger' in India which has seen an exponential rise in the numbers of big cats, the Centre is mulling translocating a few of these majestic animals to Cambodia where it has become extinct. Cambodia last reported the sighting of a tiger in 2007 when it was caught on a jungle camera trap. After India successfully translocated a batch of African cheetahs last September, a memorandum of understanding was also signed with Cambodia in November to assist with the reintroduction of tigers in the Southeast Asian nation. “The translocation of our tigers to Cambodia is under consideration. This has never been done in India before, although we have been translocating tigers within the country as and when it has been required," said S P Yadav, member secretary, National Tiger Conservation Authority, referring to the translocation of tigers from Corbett (Uttarakhand) to Rajaji National Park. “We’ve sent a delegation there [Cambodia], they’ve sent a delegation here. We are examining the situation in Cambodia to see if tiger translocation can be done." The officer added that in order to make the translocation possible, the authorities are studying if the factors that led to the extinction of tigers in the first place were resolved or not. Next month will mark the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger which began in 1973 at the Corbett national park. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend a conference in Mysore and laud the efforts of wildlife conservation activists and officials involved whilst releasing tiger census data for 2022. WATCH | Gravitas: How India is saving the tigers × Considering the six per cent annual growth observed in the population of tigers in the last few years, some experts say that it cannot be ruled out that the numbers may have swelled past 3,500, according to 2022 Tiger census findings. ALSO READ | This Indian state is opening up another sanctuary for Asiatic lions as numbers grow exponentially After India reached an alarming level of only 1,411 big cats in 2006, following the vanishing of tigers in the Sariska reserve in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, successive governments stepped up the protection programmes, Since then, a significant improvement has been observed and currently, India harbours 70 per cent of the global population of tigers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India considering translocating few tigers to Cambodia

<p>Recently, Bollywood lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar made headlines as he claimed that Urdu belongs to 'Hindustan'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Urdu hasn't come from any other place...it is our own language. It isn't spoken outside Hindustan...Pakistan also came into existence after partition from India, earlier it was a part of India only. So, the language isn't spoken outside Hindustan," he had said.</p>

<p>“Earlier it was only Hindustan - Pakistan later separated from Hindustan. Now Pakistan said that Kashmir is ours...will you believe that? I think 'No'! Likewise, Urdu is a Hindustan(i) language and it remains (so),” the lyricist said.</p>

<p>His words sparked debates over the birth and existence of the language which has been spoken for centuries and has remained an important part of the Indian subcontinent's cultural milieu.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/javed-akhtar-says-urdu-doesnt-belong-to-pakistan-or-egypt-but-to-hindustan-571989">Poet, lyricist, screenwriter Javed Akhtar says Urdu ‘doesn’t belong to Pakistan or Egypt, but to Hindustan’</a></p>

<h2>So, where was Urdu born?</h2>

<p>If scholarly historiography is traced back, Urdu's presence can be observed in the languages of 16th-century Delhi – Hindi, Hindvi, Gujri, Dhilavi, Dakani and Rekhtah. Edward Terry, who accompanied Thomas Roe to the Mughal emperor Jahangir's court, termed the language of Delhiwalas as 'Indostan' in his work 'A Voyage to East India' (London, 1655).</p>

<p>Recalling the beauty of the language, Terry stated that it was powerful in nature and had major reflections of Persian and Arabic languages. Around 1780, &nbsp;'Urdu' was for the first time put into use as a term representing the language of Delhi by Mushafi (1750-1824) in his divan 'Kulliyat' in which he wrote, 'Mushafi has, most surely claim of superiority in Rekhta - That is to say, he has expert knowledge of the language of Urdu.'</p>

<p>In the world of literature and Mughal courts, the term Urdu debuted as 'zaban-e-urdu-e mu'alla-e<br />
shahjahanabad' (the language of the exalted city or the court of Shahjahanabad or what we today call Delhi). The terminology was soon cut down to 'zaban-e urdu-e mu'alla' and then to 'zaban-e- urdu' which meant the 'language of the camp', finally becoming the peerless 'Urdu'.</p>

<h2>How did Urdu gain prominence in the world of politics and literature?</h2>

<p>When Mughal emperor Shah Alam II (1759-1806) shifted to Delhi, his love for Urdu helped the language gain respect among the courtiers and become the informal language of the court. Describing the birth of Urdu in Delhi, literary historian and poet Azad called the language 'an orphan found wandering in the bazaars (markets) of Shahjahanabad'.</p>

<p>Soon after 1722, Urdu poetry boomed in North India and scores of poets emerged. The love for Urdu took the streets of Delhi by such a wave that even reciting of classic Urdu poetry by street urchins became a common phenomenon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The most remarkable literary renaissance of Urdu took place under the patronage of the Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar II in the 19th century. Delhi saw the flourishing of great love poets, from Mirza Ghalib to Mughal poet laureate Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq. In 1837, the British East India Company replaced Persian with various vernaculars of the country as the court language. The officials had identified Urdu as the regional vernacular of Oudh, Bihar, Punjab and the North-Western provinces of India, and hence, it was made the government's language across North India.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Indian lyricist Javed Akhtar takes on Pakistan on Pak soil, calls out their sponsored terrorism</strong></p>

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<h2>How did Urdu become Pakistan's national language?</h2>

<p>On March 24, 1948, Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in an iconic speech, stated, “In my personal opinion, Pakistan’s official language — which will become a source of communication between its different provinces — can only be one and that is Urdu. No language other than Urdu.”</p>

<p>That's how Urdu, &nbsp;once widely used in the Independence movement of India, made its presence felt to the entire nation in popular slogans (“inquilab zindabad” — “Long live the revolution”) and song (“Saare Jahaan se Accha”– “Better than the entire world”), suddenly became the national language of the neighbouring nation, post-partition.</p>

<p>This dynamic shift of language and Urdu getting designated as the national language of Pakistan raised eyebrows as there were hardly any native speakers of the language in 1947. Jinnah who was a westernised Muslim and whose mother tongue was Gujarati was he was not well-versed in Urdu. However, from 1938, he made it a point to address crowds in Urdu, even though he lacked fluency.</p>

<p>Urdu was declared as the national and official language in 1947 and 2015 respectively in Pakistan, where till now 38.78 per cent speak Punjabi, 18.24 per cent speak Pashto, 14.57 per cent speak Sindhi, 12.19 per cent speak Saraiki, 7.08 per cent speak Urdu, 3.02 per cent speak Balochi and 2.24 per cent speak Hindko.</p>

<p>The imposition of Urdu in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) was seen as a major reason why the Bengali-dominated province seceded in 1971 post the Bangladesh Liberation War. Today, Urdu has become the identity of Muslim-dominated Pakistan even though it belonged to the cultural synthesis of the Ganges-Yamuna Doab in India.</p>

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Recently, Bollywood lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar made headlines as he claimed that Urdu belongs to 'Hindustan'. “Urdu hasn't come from any other place...it is our own language.

Recently, Bollywood lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar made headlines as he claimed that Urdu belongs to 'Hindustan'. “Urdu hasn't come from any other place...it is our own language. It isn't spoken outside Hindustan...Pakistan also came into existence after partition from India, earlier it was a part of India only. So, the language isn't spoken outside Hindustan," he had said. “Earlier it was only Hindustan - Pakistan later separated from Hindustan. Now Pakistan said that Kashmir is ours...will you believe that? I think 'No'! Likewise, Urdu is a Hindustan(i) language and it remains (so),” the lyricist said. His words sparked debates over the birth and existence of the language which has been spoken for centuries and has remained an important part of the Indian subcontinent's cultural milieu. ALSO READ | Poet, lyricist, screenwriter Javed Akhtar says Urdu ‘doesn’t belong to Pakistan or Egypt, but to Hindustan’ So, where was Urdu born? If scholarly historiography is traced back, Urdu's presence can be observed in the languages of 16th-century Delhi – Hindi, Hindvi, Gujri, Dhilavi, Dakani and Rekhtah. Edward Terry, who accompanied Thomas Roe to the Mughal emperor Jahangir's court, termed the language of Delhiwalas as 'Indostan' in his work 'A Voyage to East India' (London, 1655). Recalling the beauty of the language, Terry stated that it was powerful in nature and had major reflections of Persian and Arabic languages. Around 1780, 'Urdu' was for the first time put into use as a term representing the language of Delhi by Mushafi (1750-1824) in his divan 'Kulliyat' in which he wrote, 'Mushafi has, most surely claim of superiority in Rekhta - That is to say, he has expert knowledge of the language of Urdu.' In the world of literature and Mughal courts, the term Urdu debuted as 'zaban-e-urdu-e mu'alla-e shahjahanabad' (the language of the exalted city or the court of Shahjahanabad or what we today call Delhi). The terminology was soon cut down to 'zaban-e urdu-e mu'alla' and then to 'zaban-e- urdu' which meant the 'language of the camp', finally becoming the peerless 'Urdu'. How did Urdu gain prominence in the world of politics and literature? When Mughal emperor Shah Alam II (1759-1806) shifted to Delhi, his love for Urdu helped the language gain respect among the courtiers and become the informal language of the court. Describing the birth of Urdu in Delhi, literary historian and poet Azad called the language 'an orphan found wandering in the bazaars (markets) of Shahjahanabad'. Soon after 1722, Urdu poetry boomed in North India and scores of poets emerged. The love for Urdu took the streets of Delhi by such a wave that even reciting of classic Urdu poetry by street urchins became a common phenomenon. The most remarkable literary renaissance of Urdu took place under the patronage of the Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar II in the 19th century. Delhi saw the flourishing of great love poets, from Mirza Ghalib to Mughal poet laureate Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq. In 1837, the British East India Company replaced Persian with various vernaculars of the country as the court language. The officials had identified Urdu as the regional vernacular of Oudh, Bihar, Punjab and the North-Western provinces of India, and hence, it was made the government's language across North India. WATCH | Indian lyricist Javed Akhtar takes on Pakistan on Pak soil, calls out their sponsored terrorism How did Urdu become Pakistan's national language? On March 24, 1948, Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in an iconic speech, stated, “In my personal opinion, Pakistan’s official language — which will become a source of communication between its different provinces — can only be one and that is Urdu. No language other than Urdu.” That's how Urdu, once widely used in the Independence movement of India, made its presence felt to the entire nation in popular slogans (“inquilab zindabad” — “Long live the revolution”) and song (“Saare Jahaan se Accha”– “Better than the entire world”), suddenly became the national language of the neighbouring nation, post-partition. This dynamic shift of language and Urdu getting designated as the national language of Pakistan raised eyebrows as there were hardly any native speakers of the language in 1947. Jinnah who was a westernised Muslim and whose mother tongue was Gujarati was he was not well-versed in Urdu. However, from 1938, he made it a point to address crowds in Urdu, even though he lacked fluency. Urdu was declared as the national and official language in 1947 and 2015 respectively in Pakistan, where till now 38.78 per cent speak Punjabi, 18.24 per cent speak Pashto, 14.57 per cent speak Sindhi, 12.19 per cent speak Saraiki, 7.08 per cent speak Urdu, 3.02 per cent speak Balochi and 2.24 per cent speak Hindko. The imposition of Urdu in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) was seen as a major reason why the Bengali-dominated province seceded in 1971 post the Bangladesh Liberation War. Today, Urdu has become the identity of Muslim-dominated Pakistan even though it belonged to the cultural synthesis of the Ganges-Yamuna Doab in India. 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

Explained: Here's why Javed Akhtar said 'Urdu belongs to Hindustan'

<p>A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports.</p>

<p>Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet. Such claims have been rejected by India in the past as it continues to claim Arunachal as an integral part of the country.</p>

<p>Around 50 delegates participated in the meeting which is one among many events being planned across 50 major cities before the G20 summit which will be held in the month of September in India's capital New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-g20-framework-working-group-meeting-underway-chaired-by-india-uk-575227">Second G20 framework working group meeting underway; chaired by India, UK</a></p>

<p>Currently, India holds the G20 presidency. It still remains unclear if a protest has been officially lodged by China against India over the meeting.</p>

<p>No comments were made by China or India's foreign ministry so far. The meeting, which was held at the weekend, was declared confidential and no media coverage of the event was allowed.</p>

<p>The meeting which was held under the theme 'Research innovation initiative, gathering' was organised by the Science and Technology department.</p>

<p>The delegates who participated in the meeting also visited the legislative assembly of Arunachal Pradesh as well as a Buddhist monastery in Itanagar. On their arrival, the delegates were welcomed by the cultural troupes at the airport. The delegates also tasted local cuisines, officials said.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | India aims to build consensus at G20 meet</strong></p>

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<p>Last December, the troops of India and China were reported to have clashed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Tawang sector of the state, in a face-off which came during a border standoff which continued for a month in eastern Ladakh.</p>

<p>China was then accused by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of making attempts to "unilaterally" change the status quo along the LAC.</p>

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A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports. Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet.

A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports. Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet. Such claims have been rejected by India in the past as it continues to claim Arunachal as an integral part of the country. Around 50 delegates participated in the meeting which is one among many events being planned across 50 major cities before the G20 summit which will be held in the month of September in India's capital New Delhi. ALSO READ | Second G20 framework working group meeting underway; chaired by India, UK Currently, India holds the G20 presidency. It still remains unclear if a protest has been officially lodged by China against India over the meeting. No comments were made by China or India's foreign ministry so far. The meeting, which was held at the weekend, was declared confidential and no media coverage of the event was allowed. The meeting which was held under the theme 'Research innovation initiative, gathering' was organised by the Science and Technology department. The delegates who participated in the meeting also visited the legislative assembly of Arunachal Pradesh as well as a Buddhist monastery in Itanagar. On their arrival, the delegates were welcomed by the cultural troupes at the airport. The delegates also tasted local cuisines, officials said. WATCH | India aims to build consensus at G20 meet Last December, the troops of India and China were reported to have clashed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Tawang sector of the state, in a face-off which came during a border standoff which continued for a month in eastern Ladakh. China was then accused by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of making attempts to "unilaterally" change the status quo along the LAC. 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

China skips confidential G20 meet in India's Arunachal Pradesh

<p>The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), early Sunday (March 26) launched its largest and heaviest Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) rocket from the second launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. It also marked the Indian space agency’s sixth consecutive successful flight of LVM3-M3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rocket placed 36 satellites belonging to the OneWeb Group Company in their intended 450 km circular orbit with an inclination of 87.4 degrees, said ISRO, in a statement. The LVM3 was carrying a total payload of 5,805 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and was launched at 09:00:20 hours (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isros-largest-rocket-lvm3-lifts-off-successfully-on-2nd-commercial-mission-575788">ISRO's largest rocket LVM3 lifts off successfully on 2nd commercial mission</a></strong></p>

<p>“The vehicle performed a sophisticated manoeuvre to orient in orthogonal directions and injected the satellites into precise orbits with defined time-gaps to avoid collision of the satellites,” said ISRO. A video of the launch was shared by the Indian Minister of Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh who hailed ISRO as well as the country’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud to be associated with the Department of Space <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> at a time when India under PM Sh <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> has emerged as the frontline Space Tech nation of the world. Team ISRO adds yet another feather to its much decorated hat.Successful launch of LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 mission. <a href="https://t.co/VqYSn5VMBO">pic.twitter.com/VqYSn5VMBO</a></p>
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1639841340119736321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian PM had also taken to the microblogging platform to congratulate various agencies including ISRO for yet another successful launch of LVM3 with 36 OneWeb satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 mission also marked the first satellite deployment collaboration between Network Access Associates Ltd, United Kingdom-based OneWeb Group Company and ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-earns-137mn-as-pm-modi-asked-isro-to-launch-oneweb-satellites-oneweb-chairman-575933">ISRO earns $137mn as PM Modi asked ISRO to launch OneWeb satellites: OneWeb chairman</a></strong></p>

<p>The launch was the second time when OneWeb had used ISRO’s satellite launch services, which has now completed its constellation of 618 low earth orbit satellites that would allow it to offer broadband internet services from space in every corner of the world, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is the most significant milestone in the history of OneWeb, as we reach the satellites needed for global coverage,” said OneWeb CEO, Neil Masterson, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), early Sunday (March 26) launched its largest and heaviest Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) rocket from the second launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), early Sunday (March 26) launched its largest and heaviest Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) rocket from the second launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. It also marked the Indian space agency’s sixth consecutive successful flight of LVM3-M3. The rocket placed 36 satellites belonging to the OneWeb Group Company in their intended 450 km circular orbit with an inclination of 87.4 degrees, said ISRO, in a statement. The LVM3 was carrying a total payload of 5,805 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and was launched at 09:00:20 hours (local time). ALSO READ | ISRO's largest rocket LVM3 lifts off successfully on 2nd commercial mission “The vehicle performed a sophisticated manoeuvre to orient in orthogonal directions and injected the satellites into precise orbits with defined time-gaps to avoid collision of the satellites,” said ISRO. A video of the launch was shared by the Indian Minister of Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh who hailed ISRO as well as the country’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Proud to be associated with the Department of Space #ISRO at a time when India under PM Sh @NarendraModi has emerged as the frontline Space Tech nation of the world. Team ISRO adds yet another feather to its much decorated hat.Successful launch of LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 mission. pic.twitter.com/VqYSn5VMBO — Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) March 26, 2023 × The Indian PM had also taken to the microblogging platform to congratulate various agencies including ISRO for yet another successful launch of LVM3 with 36 OneWeb satellites. The LVM3-M3/OneWeb India-2 mission also marked the first satellite deployment collaboration between Network Access Associates Ltd, United Kingdom-based OneWeb Group Company and ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL). ALSO READ | ISRO earns $137mn as PM Modi asked ISRO to launch OneWeb satellites: OneWeb chairman The launch was the second time when OneWeb had used ISRO’s satellite launch services, which has now completed its constellation of 618 low earth orbit satellites that would allow it to offer broadband internet services from space in every corner of the world, reported news agency PTI. “This is the most significant milestone in the history of OneWeb, as we reach the satellites needed for global coverage,” said OneWeb CEO, Neil Masterson, in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | ISRO successfully launches its largest rocket LVM3; completes OneWeb’s 618 satellite constellation

<p>India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July.</p>

<p>India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit. It got the chairmanship of the grouping at the Samarkand SCO summit in September last year.&nbsp;This is the first time that India is hosting&nbsp;the summit since becoming a member of the grouping in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lekhi told Lok Sabha on Friday, "India will also host the SCO Heads of State Summit in July 2023 and will fulfil the role of an active and constructive member of the organisation."</p>

<p>Ahead of the summit, India will be hosting several ministerial meetings of the grouping, including the defence ministers' meeting that will take place in the capital New Delhi from April 27 to April 29, and the foreign ministers meeting in Goa from May 4 to May 5.</p>

<p>India has sent out invites for the meetings of defence ministers and foreign ministers to the members of the grouping, including China and Pakistan.</p>

<p>Talking about the foreign ministers' meeting, Lekhi said, "Most foreign ministers of member states of SCO have confirmed their participation. Confirmation from foreign ministers of China and Pakistan is awaited."</p>

<p>Apart from that, India will also be holding the National Security Advisers' meeting on March 29 in Delhi.</p>

<p>The SCO, founded over 20 years ago, comprises eight member countries, including Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.</p>

<p>The SCO is a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. It covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP.<br />
<br />
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India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July. India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit.

India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July. India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit. It got the chairmanship of the grouping at the Samarkand SCO summit in September last year. This is the first time that India is hosting the summit since becoming a member of the grouping in 2017. Lekhi told Lok Sabha on Friday, "India will also host the SCO Heads of State Summit in July 2023 and will fulfil the role of an active and constructive member of the organisation." Ahead of the summit, India will be hosting several ministerial meetings of the grouping, including the defence ministers' meeting that will take place in the capital New Delhi from April 27 to April 29, and the foreign ministers meeting in Goa from May 4 to May 5. India has sent out invites for the meetings of defence ministers and foreign ministers to the members of the grouping, including China and Pakistan. Talking about the foreign ministers' meeting, Lekhi said, "Most foreign ministers of member states of SCO have confirmed their participation. Confirmation from foreign ministers of China and Pakistan is awaited." Apart from that, India will also be holding the National Security Advisers' meeting on March 29 in Delhi. The SCO, founded over 20 years ago, comprises eight member countries, including Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The SCO is a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. It covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit to take place in July: Minister Meenakshi Lekhi

<p>India and Iraq have strengthened their security ties during the visit of Iraq's National Security Adviser (NSA) Qasem AI-Araji to India. The visit marked the first cabinet minister-level visit from Iraq to India in seven years. Both sides have agreed to enhance defence cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and strengthen security linkages. On Friday, Indian NSA Ajit Doval and the Iraqi NSA held extensive discussions on vast areas of mutual interest and exchanged views on recent developments in their respective regions.</p>

<p>Apart from security ties, India and Iraq also have a strong economic relationship, with Iraq being the largest supplier of oil to India since 2017 and the fifth-largest trade partner of India. Indian companies have significant opportunities in the upstream, mid, and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry in Iraq.</p>

<p>During his visit, the Iraqi NSA visited Bharat Electronics Limited to witness examples of the "Make in India" initiative and interacted with Indian defence industry leaders.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-relationship-with-iraq-a-forgotten-tale-254351"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: India's Relationship With Iraq: A Forgotten Tale</strong></a></p>

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<p>India organised an Artificial Limb Fitment Camp at Al Kafeel Hospital in Karbala in November-December 2018 which was very well received. Prosthetic limbs/Jaipur Foot were provided to more than 600 amputees on a charity basis.</p>

<p>A second camp is being planned shortly. It is estimated that around 33,000 Iraqis travel to India, mostly for medical treatment, fetching an estimated $170 million to Indian hospitals, second after Bangladesh.</p>

<p>There is also a historical connection between the peoples of the two countries. Many Indian pilgrims visit the holy shrines in Najaf and Karbala and that of Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani in Baghdad every year. The visit of the Iraqi NSA to India paves way for increased cooperation and engagement between the two countries, not only in the area of security but also in various other sectors.</p>

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India and Iraq have strengthened their security ties during the visit of Iraq's National Security Adviser (NSA) Qasem AI-Araji to India. The visit marked the first cabinet minister-level visit from Iraq to India in seven years.

India and Iraq have strengthened their security ties during the visit of Iraq's National Security Adviser (NSA) Qasem AI-Araji to India. The visit marked the first cabinet minister-level visit from Iraq to India in seven years. Both sides have agreed to enhance defence cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and strengthen security linkages. On Friday, Indian NSA Ajit Doval and the Iraqi NSA held extensive discussions on vast areas of mutual interest and exchanged views on recent developments in their respective regions. Apart from security ties, India and Iraq also have a strong economic relationship, with Iraq being the largest supplier of oil to India since 2017 and the fifth-largest trade partner of India. Indian companies have significant opportunities in the upstream, mid, and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry in Iraq. During his visit, the Iraqi NSA visited Bharat Electronics Limited to witness examples of the "Make in India" initiative and interacted with Indian defence industry leaders. WATCH | Gravitas: India's Relationship With Iraq: A Forgotten Tale × India organised an Artificial Limb Fitment Camp at Al Kafeel Hospital in Karbala in November-December 2018 which was very well received. Prosthetic limbs/Jaipur Foot were provided to more than 600 amputees on a charity basis. A second camp is being planned shortly. It is estimated that around 33,000 Iraqis travel to India, mostly for medical treatment, fetching an estimated $170 million to Indian hospitals, second after Bangladesh. There is also a historical connection between the peoples of the two countries. Many Indian pilgrims visit the holy shrines in Najaf and Karbala and that of Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani in Baghdad every year. The visit of the Iraqi NSA to India paves way for increased cooperation and engagement between the two countries, not only in the area of security but also in various other sectors. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India and Iraq agree to boost security ties during National Security Adviser Qasem's visit

<p>Speaking on the sidelines&nbsp;of an event organised by the&nbsp;Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the United States-based aircraft maker&nbsp;Boeing said that India might require 31,000 pilots and around 26,000 mechanics over the next two decades amid the growing order book of the aircraft original equipment manufacturers, said a report by news agency PTI. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“India is going to need over 31,000 pilots and 26,000 mechanics over the next 20 years to take care of the aircraft coming in. This is as important a part of the Indian growth story as the aircraft (orders),” Boeing India President Salil Gupte told reporters. He also spoke about how the South Asian region is expected to remain the fastest-growing market globally over the next several years.</p>

<p>Gupte also seemingly hailed the government’s move to let the Tata Group take over Air India and said it will transform the Indian aerospace industry. This comes months after the now Tata Group-owned Air India placed an order of 470 planes with both Boeing and European aviation giant&nbsp;Airbus. Speaking about the order, Gupte said, it is a massive deal for India as a nation and that the country is getting representation on the global stage, reported PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boeing’s India president also said that considering the country’s air traffic growth, the focus should be on making infrastructure robust, both hard infrastructure which includes airports as well as critical infrastructure, which includes pilots and so on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is a huge market for Boeing's narrow-body aircraft, said Gupte adding that at least 90 per cent of the market in the next two decades&nbsp;is going to be a narrow body market and "we expect we will be successful in competing for those every single campaign (aircraft order).”</p>

<p>“India is the gateway like China and once it will grow to be (in) the top four economies of the world, it will be more than a hub,” said Boeing India’s president, as per PTI, and spoke about how New Delhi will become more than a hub for aviation given its sheer size and scale as the country’s economy grow.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Speaking on the sidelines of an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the United States-based aircraft maker Boeing said that India might require 31,000 pilots and around 26,000 mechanics over the next two decades amid the growing order book of the aircraft original equipment manufacturers, said a report by news agency PTI.

Speaking on the sidelines of an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the United States-based aircraft maker Boeing said that India might require 31,000 pilots and around 26,000 mechanics over the next two decades amid the growing order book of the aircraft original equipment manufacturers, said a report by news agency PTI. “India is going to need over 31,000 pilots and 26,000 mechanics over the next 20 years to take care of the aircraft coming in. This is as important a part of the Indian growth story as the aircraft (orders),” Boeing India President Salil Gupte told reporters. He also spoke about how the South Asian region is expected to remain the fastest-growing market globally over the next several years. Gupte also seemingly hailed the government’s move to let the Tata Group take over Air India and said it will transform the Indian aerospace industry. This comes months after the now Tata Group-owned Air India placed an order of 470 planes with both Boeing and European aviation giant Airbus. Speaking about the order, Gupte said, it is a massive deal for India as a nation and that the country is getting representation on the global stage, reported PTI. Boeing’s India president also said that considering the country’s air traffic growth, the focus should be on making infrastructure robust, both hard infrastructure which includes airports as well as critical infrastructure, which includes pilots and so on. India is a huge market for Boeing's narrow-body aircraft, said Gupte adding that at least 90 per cent of the market in the next two decades is going to be a narrow body market and "we expect we will be successful in competing for those every single campaign (aircraft order).” “India is the gateway like China and once it will grow to be (in) the top four economies of the world, it will be more than a hub,” said Boeing India’s president, as per PTI, and spoke about how New Delhi will become more than a hub for aviation given its sheer size and scale as the country’s economy grow. (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.

India might require over 30,000 pilots, some 26,000 mechanics in 20 years: Boeing

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<p>The Indian government is planning to deploy 6G network and communication services at an affordable cost to the public by 2030, informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday during the unveiling of the 'Bharat 6G' vision document in the capital city of New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vision document has been introduced to present India as a global leader in 6G innovation and fasten the digital inclusion of citizens. It is also expected to help identify, fund research and deploy the next-generation technology across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the document, the 6G rollout will be implemented in two phases (2023-2025 and 2025-2030) with the centre appointing an apex council to oversee the project.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Speaking at inauguration of ITU Area Office &amp; Innovation Centre in Delhi. Initiatives like 6G Test Bed &amp; 'Call Before You Dig' app are also being launched. <a href="https://t.co/z6hRdeTPbB">https://t.co/z6hRdeTPbB</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1638442899083005952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the first phase, the government will facilitate in the testing and brainstorming of ideas with the related stakeholders. The second phase will be about establishing use cases for the technology and attempting to commercialize it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The new 5G technology promises a speed range of 40 – 1,100 Mbps with the potential to hit maximum speeds of 10,000 Mbps through technologies such as millimetre-wave spectrum and beamforming. While 5G itself seems very futuristic as of now, 6G will offer ultra-low latency with speeds up to 1 Tbps," read the document.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-6g-make-smartphones-extinct-by-2030-484767" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Will 6G make smartphones extinct by 2030?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Currently, the 6G technology in the country is being developed by a collaboration of Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) - India's leading technical institutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The launch of the vision document comes barely six months after PM Modi formally launched 5G services in India on October 22. At the time, the Indian leader egged the related stakeholders to launch 6G services within the next decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-launches-5g-services-in-india-automotive-sector-to-be-biggest-beneficiary-521459"><strong>Watch: PM Modi launches 5G services in India, automotive sector to be biggest beneficiary</strong></a></p>

<p>“Today, we are talking about 6G only after six months of 5G rollout and this shows India’s confidence. We have also presented our vision document. This will become a major basis for 6G rollout in the next few years,” Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fund the research for 6G innovation, the centre has recommended to set aside a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Indian government is planning to deploy 6G network and communication services at an affordable cost to the public by 2030, informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday during the unveiling of the 'Bharat 6G' vision document in the capital city of New Delhi.

The Indian government is planning to deploy 6G network and communication services at an affordable cost to the public by 2030, informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday during the unveiling of the 'Bharat 6G' vision document in the capital city of New Delhi. The vision document has been introduced to present India as a global leader in 6G innovation and fasten the digital inclusion of citizens. It is also expected to help identify, fund research and deploy the next-generation technology across the country. As per the document, the 6G rollout will be implemented in two phases (2023-2025 and 2025-2030) with the centre appointing an apex council to oversee the project. Speaking at inauguration of ITU Area Office & Innovation Centre in Delhi. Initiatives like 6G Test Bed & 'Call Before You Dig' app are also being launched. https://t.co/z6hRdeTPbB — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 22, 2023 × In the first phase, the government will facilitate in the testing and brainstorming of ideas with the related stakeholders. The second phase will be about establishing use cases for the technology and attempting to commercialize it. “The new 5G technology promises a speed range of 40 – 1,100 Mbps with the potential to hit maximum speeds of 10,000 Mbps through technologies such as millimetre-wave spectrum and beamforming. While 5G itself seems very futuristic as of now, 6G will offer ultra-low latency with speeds up to 1 Tbps," read the document. WATCH | Will 6G make smartphones extinct by 2030? × Currently, the 6G technology in the country is being developed by a collaboration of Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) - India's leading technical institutes. The launch of the vision document comes barely six months after PM Modi formally launched 5G services in India on October 22. At the time, the Indian leader egged the related stakeholders to launch 6G services within the next decade. Watch: PM Modi launches 5G services in India, automotive sector to be biggest beneficiary “Today, we are talking about 6G only after six months of 5G rollout and this shows India’s confidence. We have also presented our vision document. This will become a major basis for 6G rollout in the next few years,” Modi said. The fund the research for 6G innovation, the centre has recommended to set aside a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is India planning to launch 6G services? PM Modi lays down the blueprint

<p>Doctors at a hospital in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district kept their nerve to deliver a baby through lower-segment cesarean section while an earthquake shook the Valley on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;''Emergency LSCS (lower-segment cesarean section) was going on at SDH (Sub District Hospital) Bijbehara, Anantnag, during which strong tremors of earthquake were felt.</p>

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<p>''Kudos to the staff of SDH Bijbehara who conducted the LSCS smoothly and thank god everything is alright,'' according to a tweet from the district's chief medical officer.</p>

<p>The tweet included a video that showed how the staff focused on the job while everything around them was shaking.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strong-earthquake-tremors-felt-in-indias-capital-574424"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Thirteen reported dead following earthquake in Afghanistan, Pakistan; tremors felt in India's capital</strong></a></p>

<p>An earthquake measuring 6.6 on the Richter scale struck the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, shaking the valley so violently that residents in many areas rushed out of their homes in search of safety.</p>

<p>At least 13 people have reportedly died due to the quake.&nbsp;Nine were killed and 44 injured in northwest Pakistan, according to local media reports. Meanwhile,&nbsp;four people were killed and 50 injured in Afghanistan, a health ministry official there said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/active-militants-in-kashmir-valley-at-28-a-record-low-574642"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Number of active terrorists in Kashmir Valley at record low of 28, to drop further: J&amp;K Police</strong></a></p>

<p>The epicentre of the earthquake was 156 km deep inside earth, according to India's National Centre&nbsp;for Seismology. The earthquake tremors were felt at 10:17 PM (Indian Standard Time or 4:17 PM, Greenwich Mean Time).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Doctors at a hospital in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district kept their nerve to deliver a baby through lower-segment cesarean section while an earthquake shook the Valley on Tuesday.

Doctors at a hospital in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district kept their nerve to deliver a baby through lower-segment cesarean section while an earthquake shook the Valley on Tuesday. ''Emergency LSCS (lower-segment cesarean section) was going on at SDH (Sub District Hospital) Bijbehara, Anantnag, during which strong tremors of earthquake were felt. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × ''Kudos to the staff of SDH Bijbehara who conducted the LSCS smoothly and thank god everything is alright,'' according to a tweet from the district's chief medical officer. The tweet included a video that showed how the staff focused on the job while everything around them was shaking. ALSO READ | Thirteen reported dead following earthquake in Afghanistan, Pakistan; tremors felt in India's capital An earthquake measuring 6.6 on the Richter scale struck the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, shaking the valley so violently that residents in many areas rushed out of their homes in search of safety. At least 13 people have reportedly died due to the quake. Nine were killed and 44 injured in northwest Pakistan, according to local media reports. Meanwhile, four people were killed and 50 injured in Afghanistan, a health ministry official there said. ALSO READ | Number of active terrorists in Kashmir Valley at record low of 28, to drop further: J&K Police The epicentre of the earthquake was 156 km deep inside earth, according to India's National Centre for Seismology. The earthquake tremors were felt at 10:17 PM (Indian Standard Time or 4:17 PM, Greenwich Mean Time). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Doctors deliver baby amid strong earthquake tremors in Kashmir's Anantnag

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20). The video was shared by PM Modi on his social media accounts with the caption, “My friend PM @fumio_kishida enjoys Indian snacks including tasty Golgappas.”&nbsp;<br />
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<p>Subsequently, the leaders were also seen having ‘aam panna’ a cooling Indian summer drink and the famous Indian street food ‘golgappe’. &nbsp;The two leaders were later also seen having a conversation over lassi while the caterers appeared to explain the recipe of the famous Indian drink and even tried their hands at churning it, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My friend PM <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a> enjoyed Indian snacks including Golgappas. <a href="https://t.co/rXtQQdD7Ki">pic.twitter.com/rXtQQdD7Ki</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1637828369424211968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier today, Japan’s PM Kishida arrived in New Delhi for the annual India-Japan Summit. The two leaders prior to enjoying the Indian delicacies also visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. PM Modi also gifted a sapling of Bal Bodhi tree to his Japanese counterpart, said Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders also held extensive talks on wide-ranging issues at Hyderabad House in India’s capital New Delhi, earlier in the day. Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, Modi said it is the best opportunity to work together on priorities of both sides for global good in the context of India’s presidency of the G20 and Japan chairing the G7 grouping.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-accepts-japanese-pm-fumio-kishidas-invitation-to-g7-574038">Indian PM Modi accepts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s Invitation to G7</a></strong></p>

<p>During his visit, Kishida called India an “indispensable partner” of Japan and also unveiled “on Indian soil” his plan “for a free and open Indo-Pacific”. However, the details of what his vision of a free Indo-Pacific would entail are yet to be revealed. The Japanese PM also invited PM Modi to the G7 summit in May and said that he has agreed to participate in it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20).

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is in the midst of a two-day visit to India tried different Indian delicacies including ‘golgappe’, ‘lassi’ and ‘aam panna’ at the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on Monday (March 20). The video was shared by PM Modi on his social media accounts with the caption, “My friend PM @fumio_kishida enjoys Indian snacks including tasty Golgappas.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) × Subsequently, the leaders were also seen having ‘aam panna’ a cooling Indian summer drink and the famous Indian street food ‘golgappe’. The two leaders were later also seen having a conversation over lassi while the caterers appeared to explain the recipe of the famous Indian drink and even tried their hands at churning it, as per media reports. My friend PM @kishida230 enjoyed Indian snacks including Golgappas. pic.twitter.com/rXtQQdD7Ki — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2023 × Earlier today, Japan’s PM Kishida arrived in New Delhi for the annual India-Japan Summit. The two leaders prior to enjoying the Indian delicacies also visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. PM Modi also gifted a sapling of Bal Bodhi tree to his Japanese counterpart, said Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet. The two leaders also held extensive talks on wide-ranging issues at Hyderabad House in India’s capital New Delhi, earlier in the day. Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, Modi said it is the best opportunity to work together on priorities of both sides for global good in the context of India’s presidency of the G20 and Japan chairing the G7 grouping. ALSO WATCH | Indian PM Modi accepts Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s Invitation to G7 During his visit, Kishida called India an “indispensable partner” of Japan and also unveiled “on Indian soil” his plan “for a free and open Indo-Pacific”. However, the details of what his vision of a free Indo-Pacific would entail are yet to be revealed. The Japanese PM also invited PM Modi to the G7 summit in May and said that he has agreed to participate in it. (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 | India: Japanese Prime Minister tries ‘golgappe’ with PM Modi in Delhi

<p>Hours after a US media report claimed that Washington provided crucial military intelligence to New Delhi last year to thwart the Chinese threat,&nbsp;the White House on Monday refused to confirm the news. Senior White House official John Kirby refuted the claims when answering the questions at a daily news conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No, I can't confirm that," said Kirby, the National Security Council coordinator for Strategic Communications at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The source-based story filed by the US News and World Report claimed that the US government, for the first time, provided real-time insights to their Indian counterparts. The details helped India neutralise the incursion attempts by the PLA troops in Northeastern India's Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang Sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-eye-on-india-china-elevates-foreign-minister-qin-gang-to-state-councillor-rank-571163"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;In key move for India, China elevates Foreign Minister Qin Gang to State Councillor rank</strong></a></p>

<p>"India was able to repel a Chinese military incursion in contested border territory in the high Himalayas late last year due to unprecedented intelligence-sharing with the US military," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"US News has learned, an act that caught China’s People’s Liberation Army forces off-guard, enraged Beijing and appears to have forced the Chinese Communist Party to reconsider its approach to land grabs along its borders. The US government for the first time provided real-time details to its Indian counterparts of the Chinese positions and force strength in advance of a PLA incursion,"&nbsp;it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The publication claimed that the US provided satellite imagery to India at a speed hitherto unseen. It added that US intelligence was partly the reason why the Chinese troops had to retreat after a subsequent clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sharing of intelligence between the two nations marked a new era of cooperation as they looked to push back on Chinese expansionism, the source related to US News added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-border-standoff-what-comes-next-troops-pulled-back-from-a-major-flashpoint-514322"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India-China border standoff: What comes next | Troops pulled back from a major flashpoint</strong></a></p>

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<p>Since 2020, the relationship between India and China has remained frosty. Though China has attempted to intrude into Indian territories for years, it was the Galwan valley standoff in 2020 that really deteriorated the relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both countries held over 17 rounds of military talks but were unable to reach terms of disengagement. In 2021, India's Ministry f External Affairs (MEA), in its annual report stated that China's attempt to change the status quo had impacted the bilateral relationship.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Hours after a US media report claimed that Washington provided crucial military intelligence to New Delhi last year to thwart the Chinese threat, the White House on Monday refused to confirm the news.

Hours after a US media report claimed that Washington provided crucial military intelligence to New Delhi last year to thwart the Chinese threat, the White House on Monday refused to confirm the news. Senior White House official John Kirby refuted the claims when answering the questions at a daily news conference. "No, I can't confirm that," said Kirby, the National Security Council coordinator for Strategic Communications at the White House. The source-based story filed by the US News and World Report claimed that the US government, for the first time, provided real-time insights to their Indian counterparts. The details helped India neutralise the incursion attempts by the PLA troops in Northeastern India's Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang Sector. ALSO READ | In key move for India, China elevates Foreign Minister Qin Gang to State Councillor rank "India was able to repel a Chinese military incursion in contested border territory in the high Himalayas late last year due to unprecedented intelligence-sharing with the US military," read the report. "US News has learned, an act that caught China’s People’s Liberation Army forces off-guard, enraged Beijing and appears to have forced the Chinese Communist Party to reconsider its approach to land grabs along its borders. The US government for the first time provided real-time details to its Indian counterparts of the Chinese positions and force strength in advance of a PLA incursion," it added. The publication claimed that the US provided satellite imagery to India at a speed hitherto unseen. It added that US intelligence was partly the reason why the Chinese troops had to retreat after a subsequent clash. The sharing of intelligence between the two nations marked a new era of cooperation as they looked to push back on Chinese expansionism, the source related to US News added. WATCH | India-China border standoff: What comes next | Troops pulled back from a major flashpoint × Since 2020, the relationship between India and China has remained frosty. Though China has attempted to intrude into Indian territories for years, it was the Galwan valley standoff in 2020 that really deteriorated the relations. Both countries held over 17 rounds of military talks but were unable to reach terms of disengagement. In 2021, India's Ministry f External Affairs (MEA), in its annual report stated that China's attempt to change the status quo had impacted the bilateral relationship. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Did US share military intelligence with India to thwart Chinese threat? White House responds

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The UAE has urged India to increase the maximum number of seats between the two countries by 50,000 a week but Scindia said, "at this point, we're not looking at increasing it".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">India is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets where demand for air travel is outstripping the supply of planes. Air India last month placed a record order for 470 jets.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">The bulk of India's international air traffic is carried by Gulf carriers powered by efficient hubs.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">Scindia said he wants Indian carriers to order more wide-body planes and offer non-stop flights to international destinations, adding India was mobilising to handle the transportation needs of its population of 1.3 billion.</p>

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India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.

India is not looking at increasing air traffic rights for the United Arab Emirates, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. The UAE has urged India to increase the maximum number of seats between the two countries by 50,000 a week but Scindia said, "at this point, we're not looking at increasing it". India is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets where demand for air travel is outstripping the supply of planes. Air India last month placed a record order for 470 jets. The bulk of India's international air traffic is carried by Gulf carriers powered by efficient hubs. Scindia said he wants Indian carriers to order more wide-body planes and offer non-stop flights to international destinations, adding India was mobilising to handle the transportation needs of its population of 1.3 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India rejects UAE request for more air traffic rights

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