Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition.

Speaking exclusively to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Andersson said that climate change is another potential area for both countries to work on which can also ensure job opportunities for the people.

“It is one of the issues that we have been discussing. We would like to have a deep cooperation in the green transition. I know it is very hot in India right now and we see the effects of climate change across the globe, and we have to do more. It is also something that can create jobs.”

When asked whether the Russia-Ukraine war figured during the talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andersson said, “Yes, of course.”

The Swedish prime minister also said that their country is currently in the process of applying for NATO membership.

“We are conducting a review to analyse the new situation, which is Russia deciding to invade friendly and democratic neighbouring country (Ukraine). So, we have to think what is best for Sweden and its security in this completely new situation,” she said.

On Wednesday, PM Modi, during his 3-day Europe visit, held a series of bilateral talks with the Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries on the sidelines of the 2nd India Nordic Summit.

The Nordic countries include Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Iceland, which represent the most advanced economies in Europe.

Modi also had a "wonderful meeting" with Swedish counterpart Andersson during which they discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and the progress in the Joint Action Plan. This was the first meeting between the two leaders.

"We discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in key sectors like security, IT, research and innovation. Strong ties between our nations will benefit our people," Modi tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/exclusive-iceland-to-help-india-when-it-comes-to-climate-solutions-says-pm-katrin-jakobsdottir-476548">Exclusive | Iceland to help India when it comes to climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir</a>

The two leaders held extensive talks on further diversifying the India-Sweden friendship, the Prime Minister's Office said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-french-president-macron-hold-talks-call-for-end-to-russia-ukraine-war-476483">Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war</a>

During the 2018 visit of Prime Minister Modi to Sweden, the two sides adopted a wide-ranging Joint Action Plan to take forward a wide range of initiatives in defence, trade and investment, renewable energy, smart cities, women’s skill development, space and science and healthcare etc. The two sides had also signed a Joint Innovation Partnership.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson speaks on India-Nordic relations

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Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition.

Pointing out the extreme climate changes faced by India, especially the heatwaves during the summer season, Swedish Prime Minister Eva Magdalena Andersson has said that India and Sweden can deepen their ties further by working on a green climate transition. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Andersson said that climate change is another potential area for both countries to work on which can also ensure job opportunities for the people. “It is one of the issues that we have been discussing. We would like to have a deep cooperation in the green transition. I know it is very hot in India right now and we see the effects of climate change across the globe, and we have to do more. It is also something that can create jobs.” When asked whether the Russia-Ukraine war figured during the talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andersson said, “Yes, of course.” The Swedish prime minister also said that their country is currently in the process of applying for NATO membership. “We are conducting a review to analyse the new situation, which is Russia deciding to invade friendly and democratic neighbouring country (Ukraine). So, we have to think what is best for Sweden and its security in this completely new situation,” she said. On Wednesday, PM Modi, during his 3-day Europe visit, held a series of bilateral talks with the Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries on the sidelines of the 2nd India Nordic Summit. The Nordic countries include Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Iceland, which represent the most advanced economies in Europe. Modi also had a "wonderful meeting" with Swedish counterpart Andersson during which they discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and the progress in the Joint Action Plan. This was the first meeting between the two leaders. "We discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in key sectors like security, IT, research and innovation. Strong ties between our nations will benefit our people," Modi tweeted. Also read | Exclusive | Iceland to help India when it comes to climate solutions, says PM Katrin Jakobsdottir The two leaders held extensive talks on further diversifying the India-Sweden friendship, the Prime Minister's Office said. Also read | Indian PM, French president hold talks, call for end to Russia-Ukraine war During the 2018 visit of Prime Minister Modi to Sweden, the two sides adopted a wide-ranging Joint Action Plan to take forward a wide range of initiatives in defence, trade and investment, renewable energy, smart cities, women’s skill development, space and science and healthcare etc. The two sides had also signed a Joint Innovation Partnership. Watch | WION Exclusive: Swedish PM Eva Magdalena Andersson speaks on India-Nordic relations

India and Sweden can further deepen ties by working on climate change: Swedish PM Andersson to WION

The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought to the fore many fault lines in a largely western-oriented international order, most of which although known for many years, were kept safely tucked away in the background, lest it threatens its very foundation. Some of such major issues highlighted in this conflict are; viability of international trade system which is largely based on dollar exchange rates, energy trade and energy security, how to counter a major nuclear weapons power like Russia when it ‘invades’ a sovereign nation and perhaps the most important, legitimacy and effectiveness of the UN. There could be many more issues that may follow once the war is over and the dust settles down.

Western Sanctions on Russia and India’s Position

The western nations are still grappling with the war which is now in its third month and the current western strategy largely focusses on three major strands; isolating Russia, severe economic sanctions against Russia and military support to Ukraine. From day one, the US and EU have tried to rally the world against Russia, calling for unity and support in a manner reminiscent of President Bush’s call to the world after the 9/11 stating, “Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists”. While the US, UK, EU, Japan, Canada, Australia etc have joined ranks against Russia, there are many others who have either refused to join or are watching from the side-lines. Where does India stand among all this?

Right from the start of war, the West has constantly pressured India to join it in condemnation of Russia and to stop trade, especially oil trade with Russia. The fact that Indian oil companies bought around 3 million barrels of oil from Russia at discounted rates after the start of ‘special military operations’ has been highlighted more than once to the Indian establishment by almost all western powers. Dr S Jaishankar, the Minister for External Affairs has repeatedly defended the oil purchases by Indian oil companies as also the oil trade with Russia which is a mere 2 percent of India’s overall oil imports.

Hitting out at constant criticism and perhaps showing a mirror to the West, while addressing a joint news conference after the conclusion of the 2+2 Dialogue with the US on 12th April, he stated “We do buy some energy, which is necessary for our energy security. But I suspect looking at the figures, probably our total purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon”.&nbsp;

Earlier, the US Deputy NSA, Daleep Singh courted severe criticism and backlash from India when, during his recent visit to India, he stated that the US won’t like to see a “rapid acceleration of India’s imports from Russia as it relates to energy or any other exports. He warned that there will be “consequences” for countries, including India. Stepping in perhaps for damage control, the US Secretary of State &nbsp;Blinken had to acknowledge that India "has to make its own decisions about how it approaches this challenge" and that "India's relationship with Russia has developed over decades at a time when the United States was not able to be a partner to India". Other nations have been more cautious in their approach towards India.&nbsp;

Australia’s High Commissioner to India Barry O’Farrel stated that ‘Australia understands India’s position’ whereas UK Foreign Secretary Truss during her India visit stated that ‘UK respected India’s decision, India is a sovereign nation and UK is not going to tell India what to do’.&nbsp;

The Western Hypocrisy

The recently held Raisina Dialogue at New Delhi provided an opportunity as well as deep insight into the current thought process of India’s foreign policy. At a session, Dr Jaishankar retorted the West when asked about India’s ties with Russia and the war in Ukraine, stating, “when rules-based order was under challenge in Asia, the advice we got from Europe was- do more trade. At least we are not giving you that advice. We should find a way of returning to diplomacy and dialogue”, calling out the hypocrisy of the West and India’s sovereign right to do what considers is right in its national interests.

On the issue of oil trade with Russia, a report published in the Times of India on 29th April, based on research done by a think-tank ‘Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air’, highlighted a remarkable fact. It highlighted how, despite the sanctions imposed by the West since February, Germany was still the top importer from Russia and the US too imported oil more than India, which was at the bottom, at 12th position! Add to that is a recent admission by the EU itself that it cannot cut oil imports by Russia totally and will do it in a phased manner.

In fact, after protests by Hungary and Slovakia, media reports suggest that the EU could grant exemption to these two countries from the ban on oil import from Russia. Germany, which is one of the largest importers of natural gas from Russia, too initially expressed its inability to cut off imports from Russia. There are also reports of some oil companies in EU nations (Italy?) which have already opened Rouble accounts in Russian banks to keep importing gas and oil from Russia. Hungary and Belarus seem to have broken ranks with the EU and have reportedly stated that they may continue trade with Russia.&nbsp;

Amongst all this, an interesting question can come up for debate too. What if the war had started at the peak of winters and not on 24th February? Could Europe have been bold enough then to turn off its heating in order to ban Russian gas immediately?&nbsp;

As pointed out earlier, this war has exposed many hypocrisies, especially of the West. When questions are asked about Russia’s war in Ukraine, one may also go back into history and seek accountability on how the Western coalition could launch war in Iraq in 2003 on a threat of WMD, which never existed! How and under what grounds could the Western coalition have suddenly abandoned Afghanistan in August 2021 leading to complete mayhem, a humanitarian disaster and the return of Taliban? What about the only instance of nuclear bombing of a nation, Japan in 1945?

India and its Energy Security

If there is one thing that has emerged for India from the war in Ukraine, it is India’s assertiveness and confidence while dealing with tough foreign policy issues. India is no longer in the game of ‘appeasement’ or ‘toeing the line’ and nations of the world are watching this with interest, some with concern too. Energy security is critical to India’s security as it imports 80 percent of its energy needs. It is therefore India’s sovereign right to source from friendly countries of its choice and in quantity of its choice. India may import three or thirty million barrels from Russia or elsewhere, without any need of approval from others, who themselves cannot stand scrutiny to their own words. India therefore has clearly no need to defend its sourcing of energy security. In fact, if anything, India could consider restarting energy imports from Iran, with the Iran nuclear deal headed nowhere in the current deadlock, but that could be a debate for another day.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

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The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought to the fore many fault lines in a largely western-oriented international order, most of which although known for many years, were kept safely tucked away in the background, lest it threatens its very foundation.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought to the fore many fault lines in a largely western-oriented international order, most of which although known for many years, were kept safely tucked away in the background, lest it threatens its very foundation. Some of such major issues highlighted in this conflict are; viability of international trade system which is largely based on dollar exchange rates, energy trade and energy security, how to counter a major nuclear weapons power like Russia when it ‘invades’ a sovereign nation and perhaps the most important, legitimacy and effectiveness of the UN. There could be many more issues that may follow once the war is over and the dust settles down. Western Sanctions on Russia and India’s Position The western nations are still grappling with the war which is now in its third month and the current western strategy largely focusses on three major strands; isolating Russia, severe economic sanctions against Russia and military support to Ukraine. From day one, the US and EU have tried to rally the world against Russia, calling for unity and support in a manner reminiscent of President Bush’s call to the world after the 9/11 stating, “Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists”. While the US, UK, EU, Japan, Canada, Australia etc have joined ranks against Russia, there are many others who have either refused to join or are watching from the side-lines. Where does India stand among all this? Right from the start of war, the West has constantly pressured India to join it in condemnation of Russia and to stop trade, especially oil trade with Russia. The fact that Indian oil companies bought around 3 million barrels of oil from Russia at discounted rates after the start of ‘special military operations’ has been highlighted more than once to the Indian establishment by almost all western powers. Dr S Jaishankar, the Minister for External Affairs has repeatedly defended the oil purchases by Indian oil companies as also the oil trade with Russia which is a mere 2 percent of India’s overall oil imports. Hitting out at constant criticism and perhaps showing a mirror to the West, while addressing a joint news conference after the conclusion of the 2+2 Dialogue with the US on 12th April, he stated “We do buy some energy, which is necessary for our energy security. But I suspect looking at the figures, probably our total purchases for the month would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon”. Earlier, the US Deputy NSA, Daleep Singh courted severe criticism and backlash from India when, during his recent visit to India, he stated that the US won’t like to see a “rapid acceleration of India’s imports from Russia as it relates to energy or any other exports. He warned that there will be “consequences” for countries, including India. Stepping in perhaps for damage control, the US Secretary of State Blinken had to acknowledge that India "has to make its own decisions about how it approaches this challenge" and that "India's relationship with Russia has developed over decades at a time when the United States was not able to be a partner to India". Other nations have been more cautious in their approach towards India. Australia’s High Commissioner to India Barry O’Farrel stated that ‘Australia understands India’s position’ whereas UK Foreign Secretary Truss during her India visit stated that ‘UK respected India’s decision, India is a sovereign nation and UK is not going to tell India what to do’. The Western Hypocrisy The recently held Raisina Dialogue at New Delhi provided an opportunity as well as deep insight into the current thought process of India’s foreign policy. At a session, Dr Jaishankar retorted the West when asked about India’s ties with Russia and the war in Ukraine, stating, “when rules-based order was under challenge in Asia, the advice we got from Europe was- do more trade. At least we are not giving you that advice. We should find a way of returning to diplomacy and dialogue”, calling out the hypocrisy of the West and India’s sovereign right to do what considers is right in its national interests. On the issue of oil trade with Russia, a report published in the Times of India on 29th April, based on research done by a think-tank ‘Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air’, highlighted a remarkable fact. It highlighted how, despite the sanctions imposed by the West since February, Germany was still the top importer from Russia and the US too imported oil more than India, which was at the bottom, at 12th position! Add to that is a recent admission by the EU itself that it cannot cut oil imports by Russia totally and will do it in a phased manner. In fact, after protests by Hungary and Slovakia, media reports suggest that the EU could grant exemption to these two countries from the ban on oil import from Russia. Germany, which is one of the largest importers of natural gas from Russia, too initially expressed its inability to cut off imports from Russia. There are also reports of some oil companies in EU nations (Italy?) which have already opened Rouble accounts in Russian banks to keep importing gas and oil from Russia. Hungary and Belarus seem to have broken ranks with the EU and have reportedly stated that they may continue trade with Russia. Amongst all this, an interesting question can come up for debate too. What if the war had started at the peak of winters and not on 24th February? Could Europe have been bold enough then to turn off its heating in order to ban Russian gas immediately? As pointed out earlier, this war has exposed many hypocrisies, especially of the West. When questions are asked about Russia’s war in Ukraine, one may also go back into history and seek accountability on how the Western coalition could launch war in Iraq in 2003 on a threat of WMD, which never existed! How and under what grounds could the Western coalition have suddenly abandoned Afghanistan in August 2021 leading to complete mayhem, a humanitarian disaster and the return of Taliban? What about the only instance of nuclear bombing of a nation, Japan in 1945? India and its Energy Security If there is one thing that has emerged for India from the war in Ukraine, it is India’s assertiveness and confidence while dealing with tough foreign policy issues. India is no longer in the game of ‘appeasement’ or ‘toeing the line’ and nations of the world are watching this with interest, some with concern too. Energy security is critical to India’s security as it imports 80 percent of its energy needs. It is therefore India’s sovereign right to source from friendly countries of its choice and in quantity of its choice. India may import three or thirty million barrels from Russia or elsewhere, without any need of approval from others, who themselves cannot stand scrutiny to their own words. India therefore has clearly no need to defend its sourcing of energy security. In fact, if anything, India could consider restarting energy imports from Iran, with the Iran nuclear deal headed nowhere in the current deadlock, but that could be a debate for another day. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India need not be defensive about sourcing its energy security

What is a heatwave, how is it declared, and what are the many types of alerts in India?

Expressing confidence in India's global role Portugal Foreign minister João Gomes Cravinho has said that "with India, we -- Portugal, Europe, that we have a partner which we can strategically trust" and both sides "need to do lot more together". The comments come as the European Union (EU), and its members state deepen engagement with India, with high-level visits, including the upcoming visit of PM Modi to the continent next week. It is important to remember that the idea of starting an India-EU Summit was raised for the first time by Portugal when the current United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was the Portuguese Prime Minister.

The visiting foreign minister was critical of Russia and China, especially pointing to Bejing's support for Moscow amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively during Delhi visit, FM Cravinho said,"We have been disappointed to hear China produce the false narrative produced by Russia about somehow Russia's invasion of Ukraine being the fault of NATO, this has been very disappointing".&nbsp;

On New Delhi's engagement with Moscow, FM pointed that while "Russia is not in listening mode", India will be a "positive influence on Russia". &nbsp;PM Modi has spoken to both Russian and Ukrainian President and called for direct talks between the 2 countries to diffuse the crisis.

Portuguese PM Antonio Costa visited India in January 2017. PM Modi visited Portugal the same year. PM Costa is the first Indian-origin head of government in the western world. &nbsp;

In December 2019, PM Costa visited India to attend a meeting of the organising committee overseeing the 2-year global commemorations of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

WION: How do you see this relationship going forward between India and Portugal?

João Gomes Cravinho: Well, we are very excited about India and Portugal's relationship. There is an excellent rapport between our prime ministers. They know each other well, they have very good personal relationship, but the personal relationship between leaders, important as it is, has to be built upon closer relationship between people, between our foreign ministries, between our structure and in that way, what we are seeing in past few years is an intensification of interactions at all levels and Portugal has always been a keen promoter of EU-India relationship.&nbsp;

So we have also been using our position inside the European Union, including our occasional rotating presidency of the European union to push for this. So at the moment, we are living in a very promising phase in the relationship. (I am) very pleased to feel that Mr Jaishankar feels the same. My role as foreign minister is to build upon this and to take the opportunities as they arise to create a closer interaction between our people.

WION: You met EAM Jaishankar, what kind of conversation happened and how much was there a mention of the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

João Gomes Cravinho: Well, I would say three quarters of our time was dedicated to our bilateral relations which is indicative of our ambitions and how much there is to be done in field of culture, economic and science, mobility. So we spent a good deal of time on what we need to do create the best circumstances for each of our countries to work closely with the other. Then ofcourse, we talked about the wider implications of the Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the way it impacts on the region security in Europe, the way it impacts upon gobal geopolitics, the way it impacts on order, the United Nations based international order. We felt that it was possible to develop a very strong shared sense of concern and shared sense also of what we need to do working together to fix what is being destroyed currently. Particularly, in the UN system for example.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: You used an interesting phrase, ambition. What ambition you see for India-Portugal relationship?&nbsp;

João Gomes Cravinho: I think best definition of our ambition is that it should live up to the high level of personal warmth between the leaders, in the future, India and Portugal both being democracies will have other leaders who may not know each other but what is fundamental is when that happens, we have very solid basis of the relationship at all levels. I think in the field of science, in the field of education, in the field of all the issues that relate to our young people, the future issues that are increasingly relevant to our world. Connectivity, the challenges of digitalization, the questions of ocean governance and the potentiality of the blue economies. These are all areas in which Portugal and India can work more closely together in order for the mutual benefit for our populations, for our economies, our societies.

Sidhant Sibal: How much cooperation is there in defence? I know there was an MOU few years ago.&nbsp;

João Gomes Cravinho: That is an interesting point and I am a former defense minister and therefore very much aware of the defense dimension of the relationship. That was also discussed in our bilateral meeting, namely the possibility of working on our defense industries, strengthening of defense industries, creating partnership between our defense industries in the area of aeronautics, in the area of drone technology. So both of us at the end of the meeting felt that there was homework to be done, there are new possibilities we are able to identify. Areas, which we consider to be of mutual interest and so shall be returning to speak to our economic agents, our institutional structures to say that let us get working on these areas because the other side is also interested in this.

WION: Going back to Ukraine, you mentioned shared concerns. What kind of shared concerns are there? There are divergences between EU and India and how do you see New Delhi's stance amid this invasion that has happened?

João Gomes Cravinho: Well, I think the shared concerns are largely related to the high level of disorder that has been introduced by the Russians, the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Disorder of the international system, it is an international system based on international law, and clearly there has been strong abuse of international law.&nbsp;

There is a shared concern about the consequences of very much weakened Russia. We were not in the business before of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, to promote a weakened Russia. But this is the result Russia has brought upon itself. But when one thinks about the geopolitical consequences of the war, for Europe and for India, these are not positive consequences.&nbsp;

We would much rather have a Russia, (that is) strong and respected partner in the international sphere but unfortunately this is not the case. Also, another shared concern is with Russia being the permanent member of the Security Council, so one of the anchors of the international system , to have that member of the United Nations actually putting into question whole structure of the international order based on the UN, it is extremely problematic.&nbsp;

We are very much interested, Portugal, the EU and India in functioning of the UN. So one of the things we have to work together on is in what manner that we can recover something of what has been lost. There is another aspect which has been as result of Russian invasion of Ukraine, but before that pandemic, which is the sense that globalisation has broken down and there is a fragmentation of globalisation, because, globalisation happened in manner in which issues of strategic trust were forgotten. There was level of international integration which created vulnerabilities which countries, in many cases were not paying attention too. Now they paying lot of attention to them.&nbsp;

So what is fundamental now is that the right balance is found between global integration and international integration, which is advantageous for the populations and our societies and strategic trust. With India, we -- Portugal, Europe feel that we have a partner which we can strategically trust. So although the whole situation is a very negative one, one of the results can be positive, which can be a deepened sense from both sides that we can do a lot more together, we need to do lot more together.

WION: But the strategic partner India has close relationship with Moscow as well. Do you think India to be in an influential role to somehow persuade Moscow, President Putin and that this is enough?

João Gomes Cravinho: Firstly, I am very much aware the history of Indo-Russian relations, Indo-Soviet relations, practically from Independence, relations in last 30 years. This is something we fully understand, fully respect, we know how it developed and this is something that doesn't disappear from one moment to another. And it very good the Russia should be listening to views, from around the world, including India. Unfortunately, the sense we have is that Russia is not in listening mode. And if Russia is not in listening mode, there are limits to what any well-intentioned international partner such as India can achieve.&nbsp;

So I would say, that at the moment there is a platform of mediation that has not been successful so far, which is provided by Turkey and we believe that it is functioning as far as it is possible with current Russian attitudes. I hope Russia will be available to hear from India, that it is really not in its own interest to continue down this path and sooner or later it is going to need to opt for a negotiated solution. I know that when that happens, I know India will be positive influence on Russia.&nbsp;

WION: If we taking about Russia, how can China be far? India, China ties have been strained due to Chinese aggressive action at Line of Actual Control. How do you see Chinese action in the Indo-Pacific and how do you see the Indo pacific vision?

João Gomes Cravinho: Well, clearly one of the most remarkable aspects of the changing geopolitical landscape is last couple of decades have been of rise of China. Historically, this tends to lead to friction and we are seeing this currently, in the Indo-Pacific. What we would like is to not to negate the rise of China. This is historically inevitable, just as rise of India is. But (we need) to ensure that it happens in a manner that is peaceful and that provides stability rather than instability and unpredictability. We have been disappointed to hear China re-produce the false narrative produced by Russia about somehow Russia's invasion of Ukraine being the fault of NATO. This has been very disappointing and we think this may well be related to the fact Russia has been increasingly in need of having a lifeline thrown to it by China.&nbsp;

Russia is clearly has weakened itself politically, economically, and it needs Chinese support. Now I think that greatest contribution China can make to international order would be not to embrace this Russian narrative. But on the contrary say that we are also in favor of stability and therefore we cannot be in favor of this process. Currently the support is given, at least at the narrative level. We hope it goes no further than that. (If it does), then this (is) very negative indication for the Indo-Pacific region. So as Europeans, we are very much concerned with this support by China.&nbsp;

WION: Portugal has played a key role in Indo-European Union relations, proposing the summit level talks as well. How do u see the relationship going? Also on FTA, how hopeful are u on it?

João Gomes Cravinho: Couple of points, first to underline that you are very right that Portugal has always used its position and sometimes its rotating presidency of the European Union to promote Indo-EU relations. At the time of Manmohan Singh, at the first summit relationship. Last year, there was the first meeting under the Portuguese presidency of the European Union. The first meetings of PM Modi and all 27 member states of the European Union. That was a landmark. We need now this landmark be translated into, amongst other things, into Free Trade Agreement.&nbsp;

The sense that I have at the moment is that we all have positive expectations about the Free Trade Agreement. I have known these negotiations well over the years and they have always been bogged down in details. At the moment the challenge is, the awareness we both have on either side, is that this is more than simply about trade. This is a strategic relationship, it is important for us to go beyond the counting, looking at the intricate details of the trade agreement and to see that wider picture.&nbsp;

Wider picture is of an evolving world in which the European union and India need each other and can benefit greatly from the strong understanding that is created by FTA. So I believe the current time we have the best possible circumstances and we need to have the determination, the ambition, the capacity, to stick with difficulties and to overcome them that will allow us to conclude the free trade agreement.&nbsp;

WION: The diaspora connect still there between the 2 countries. PM Costa had Indian links with Goa, how do you see the role played by this link in terms of the relationship?

João Gomes Cravinho: It is a very strong one, I would say it is strong in 2 manners. Firstly, historically, India is not an unknown country for the Portuguese. India is a country that is part of our history, own way of seeing ourselves and ofcourse it is home for an important community living in Portugal. Other aspect which is interesting is we have recently signed a migration and mobility agreement between Portugal and India and what we are looking forward to is the strengthening of the Indian community in Portugal in terms of numbers and bringing it up to date, making it based not only on historical heritage and families that have come many years ago but making it very up to date and based on current realities of the countries. So I think at the end of the day people-to-people links are the most important ones. These are the links on which relations between the countries can flourish. So we are very keen to create best possible circumstances for that.

Expressing confidence in India's global role Portugal Foreign minister João Gomes Cravinho has said that "with India, we -- Portugal, Europe, that we have a partner which we can strategically trust" and both sides "need to do lot more together".

Expressing confidence in India's global role Portugal Foreign minister João Gomes Cravinho has said that "with India, we -- Portugal, Europe, that we have a partner which we can strategically trust" and both sides "need to do lot more together". The comments come as the European Union (EU), and its members state deepen engagement with India, with high-level visits, including the upcoming visit of PM Modi to the continent next week. It is important to remember that the idea of starting an India-EU Summit was raised for the first time by Portugal when the current United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was the Portuguese Prime Minister. The visiting foreign minister was critical of Russia and China, especially pointing to Bejing's support for Moscow amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively during Delhi visit, FM Cravinho said,"We have been disappointed to hear China produce the false narrative produced by Russia about somehow Russia's invasion of Ukraine being the fault of NATO, this has been very disappointing". On New Delhi's engagement with Moscow, FM pointed that while "Russia is not in listening mode", India will be a "positive influence on Russia". PM Modi has spoken to both Russian and Ukrainian President and called for direct talks between the 2 countries to diffuse the crisis. Portuguese PM Antonio Costa visited India in January 2017. PM Modi visited Portugal the same year. PM Costa is the first Indian-origin head of government in the western world. In December 2019, PM Costa visited India to attend a meeting of the organising committee overseeing the 2-year global commemorations of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. WION: How do you see this relationship going forward between India and Portugal? João Gomes Cravinho: Well, we are very excited about India and Portugal's relationship. There is an excellent rapport between our prime ministers. They know each other well, they have very good personal relationship, but the personal relationship between leaders, important as it is, has to be built upon closer relationship between people, between our foreign ministries, between our structure and in that way, what we are seeing in past few years is an intensification of interactions at all levels and Portugal has always been a keen promoter of EU-India relationship. So we have also been using our position inside the European Union, including our occasional rotating presidency of the European union to push for this. So at the moment, we are living in a very promising phase in the relationship. (I am) very pleased to feel that Mr Jaishankar feels the same. My role as foreign minister is to build upon this and to take the opportunities as they arise to create a closer interaction between our people. WION: You met EAM Jaishankar, what kind of conversation happened and how much was there a mention of the Russia-Ukraine conflict? João Gomes Cravinho: Well, I would say three quarters of our time was dedicated to our bilateral relations which is indicative of our ambitions and how much there is to be done in field of culture, economic and science, mobility. So we spent a good deal of time on what we need to do create the best circumstances for each of our countries to work closely with the other. Then ofcourse, we talked about the wider implications of the Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the way it impacts on the region security in Europe, the way it impacts upon gobal geopolitics, the way it impacts on order, the United Nations based international order. We felt that it was possible to develop a very strong shared sense of concern and shared sense also of what we need to do working together to fix what is being destroyed currently. Particularly, in the UN system for example. Sidhant Sibal: You used an interesting phrase, ambition. What ambition you see for India-Portugal relationship? João Gomes Cravinho: I think best definition of our ambition is that it should live up to the high level of personal warmth between the leaders, in the future, India and Portugal both being democracies will have other leaders who may not know each other but what is fundamental is when that happens, we have very solid basis of the relationship at all levels. I think in the field of science, in the field of education, in the field of all the issues that relate to our young people, the future issues that are increasingly relevant to our world. Connectivity, the challenges of digitalization, the questions of ocean governance and the potentiality of the blue economies. These are all areas in which Portugal and India can work more closely together in order for the mutual benefit for our populations, for our economies, our societies. Sidhant Sibal: How much cooperation is there in defence? I know there was an MOU few years ago. João Gomes Cravinho: That is an interesting point and I am a former defense minister and therefore very much aware of the defense dimension of the relationship. That was also discussed in our bilateral meeting, namely the possibility of working on our defense industries, strengthening of defense industries, creating partnership between our defense industries in the area of aeronautics, in the area of drone technology. So both of us at the end of the meeting felt that there was homework to be done, there are new possibilities we are able to identify. Areas, which we consider to be of mutual interest and so shall be returning to speak to our economic agents, our institutional structures to say that let us get working on these areas because the other side is also interested in this. WION: Going back to Ukraine, you mentioned shared concerns. What kind of shared concerns are there? There are divergences between EU and India and how do you see New Delhi's stance amid this invasion that has happened? João Gomes Cravinho: Well, I think the shared concerns are largely related to the high level of disorder that has been introduced by the Russians, the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Disorder of the international system, it is an international system based on international law, and clearly there has been strong abuse of international law. There is a shared concern about the consequences of very much weakened Russia. We were not in the business before of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, to promote a weakened Russia. But this is the result Russia has brought upon itself. But when one thinks about the geopolitical consequences of the war, for Europe and for India, these are not positive consequences. We would much rather have a Russia, (that is) strong and respected partner in the international sphere but unfortunately this is not the case. Also, another shared concern is with Russia being the permanent member of the Security Council, so one of the anchors of the international system , to have that member of the United Nations actually putting into question whole structure of the international order based on the UN, it is extremely problematic. We are very much interested, Portugal, the EU and India in functioning of the UN. So one of the things we have to work together on is in what manner that we can recover something of what has been lost. There is another aspect which has been as result of Russian invasion of Ukraine, but before that pandemic, which is the sense that globalisation has broken down and there is a fragmentation of globalisation, because, globalisation happened in manner in which issues of strategic trust were forgotten. There was level of international integration which created vulnerabilities which countries, in many cases were not paying attention too. Now they paying lot of attention to them. So what is fundamental now is that the right balance is found between global integration and international integration, which is advantageous for the populations and our societies and strategic trust. With India, we -- Portugal, Europe feel that we have a partner which we can strategically trust. So although the whole situation is a very negative one, one of the results can be positive, which can be a deepened sense from both sides that we can do a lot more together, we need to do lot more together. WION: But the strategic partner India has close relationship with Moscow as well. Do you think India to be in an influential role to somehow persuade Moscow, President Putin and that this is enough? João Gomes Cravinho: Firstly, I am very much aware the history of Indo-Russian relations, Indo-Soviet relations, practically from Independence, relations in last 30 years. This is something we fully understand, fully respect, we know how it developed and this is something that doesn't disappear from one moment to another. And it very good the Russia should be listening to views, from around the world, including India. Unfortunately, the sense we have is that Russia is not in listening mode. And if Russia is not in listening mode, there are limits to what any well-intentioned international partner such as India can achieve. So I would say, that at the moment there is a platform of mediation that has not been successful so far, which is provided by Turkey and we believe that it is functioning as far as it is possible with current Russian attitudes. I hope Russia will be available to hear from India, that it is really not in its own interest to continue down this path and sooner or later it is going to need to opt for a negotiated solution. I know that when that happens, I know India will be positive influence on Russia. WION: If we taking about Russia, how can China be far? India, China ties have been strained due to Chinese aggressive action at Line of Actual Control. How do you see Chinese action in the Indo-Pacific and how do you see the Indo pacific vision? João Gomes Cravinho: Well, clearly one of the most remarkable aspects of the changing geopolitical landscape is last couple of decades have been of rise of China. Historically, this tends to lead to friction and we are seeing this currently, in the Indo-Pacific. What we would like is to not to negate the rise of China. This is historically inevitable, just as rise of India is. But (we need) to ensure that it happens in a manner that is peaceful and that provides stability rather than instability and unpredictability. We have been disappointed to hear China re-produce the false narrative produced by Russia about somehow Russia's invasion of Ukraine being the fault of NATO. This has been very disappointing and we think this may well be related to the fact Russia has been increasingly in need of having a lifeline thrown to it by China. Russia is clearly has weakened itself politically, economically, and it needs Chinese support. Now I think that greatest contribution China can make to international order would be not to embrace this Russian narrative. But on the contrary say that we are also in favor of stability and therefore we cannot be in favor of this process. Currently the support is given, at least at the narrative level. We hope it goes no further than that. (If it does), then this (is) very negative indication for the Indo-Pacific region. So as Europeans, we are very much concerned with this support by China. WION: Portugal has played a key role in Indo-European Union relations, proposing the summit level talks as well. How do u see the relationship going? Also on FTA, how hopeful are u on it? João Gomes Cravinho: Couple of points, first to underline that you are very right that Portugal has always used its position and sometimes its rotating presidency of the European Union to promote Indo-EU relations. At the time of Manmohan Singh, at the first summit relationship. Last year, there was the first meeting under the Portuguese presidency of the European Union. The first meetings of PM Modi and all 27 member states of the European Union. That was a landmark. We need now this landmark be translated into, amongst other things, into Free Trade Agreement. The sense that I have at the moment is that we all have positive expectations about the Free Trade Agreement. I have known these negotiations well over the years and they have always been bogged down in details. At the moment the challenge is, the awareness we both have on either side, is that this is more than simply about trade. This is a strategic relationship, it is important for us to go beyond the counting, looking at the intricate details of the trade agreement and to see that wider picture. Wider picture is of an evolving world in which the European union and India need each other and can benefit greatly from the strong understanding that is created by FTA. So I believe the current time we have the best possible circumstances and we need to have the determination, the ambition, the capacity, to stick with difficulties and to overcome them that will allow us to conclude the free trade agreement. WION: The diaspora connect still there between the 2 countries. PM Costa had Indian links with Goa, how do you see the role played by this link in terms of the relationship? João Gomes Cravinho: It is a very strong one, I would say it is strong in 2 manners. Firstly, historically, India is not an unknown country for the Portuguese. India is a country that is part of our history, own way of seeing ourselves and ofcourse it is home for an important community living in Portugal. Other aspect which is interesting is we have recently signed a migration and mobility agreement between Portugal and India and what we are looking forward to is the strengthening of the Indian community in Portugal in terms of numbers and bringing it up to date, making it based not only on historical heritage and families that have come many years ago but making it very up to date and based on current realities of the countries. So I think at the end of the day people-to-people links are the most important ones. These are the links on which relations between the countries can flourish. So we are very keen to create best possible circumstances for that.

Can 'strategically trust' India, says Portugal Foreign Minister Cravinho, slams Russia-China nexus

In a positive sign, India is reportedly working towards making food labelling mandatory. The step may make companies that manufacture packaged food describe the nutrition data with greater clarity and less ambiguity. This in turn may help millions of Indians who suffer from obesity.

India is a country of more than a billion people out of which about 135 million suffer from obesity.

While there is not a concrete announcement from Indian government on this yet, based on international norms, the government has an option of opting for a star system in which healthier foods will get more stars. Another option is to make use of a colour scheme with some colours indicating healthier foods while others signalling the 'not-so-healthy' aspect of a particular packaged food product.

Gravitas: India may soon make food labelling mandatory

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When such a decision comes into effect, brands may find it tough to hide information about their products possibly having too much sugar or too much salt and so on. It may also make it hard for them to hide true information about ingredients by making use of convoluted or cryptic wording on the packages.

Reports suggest that Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has been put in charge of the plan.

India will not be the first country making such rules stricter. At least seven countries have announced plans to have food labels on products. Chile, Israel, Peru, Uruguay and Mexico are some of them.

Italy has what is called a 'traffic light approach'. Food items are colour coded. Food with a green packaging is healthy and that in red packaging is deemed unhealthy.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a country like India which has a 'sweet tooth', sweets or Mithai is consumed during almost every festival. Will just labelling the food product will be enough to deter the average Indian buyer? This may surely be a challenge.

In a positive sign, India is reportedly working towards making food labelling mandatory. The step may make companies that manufacture packaged food describe the nutrition data with greater clarity and less ambiguity.

In a positive sign, India is reportedly working towards making food labelling mandatory. The step may make companies that manufacture packaged food describe the nutrition data with greater clarity and less ambiguity. This in turn may help millions of Indians who suffer from obesity. India is a country of more than a billion people out of which about 135 million suffer from obesity. While there is not a concrete announcement from Indian government on this yet, based on international norms, the government has an option of opting for a star system in which healthier foods will get more stars. Another option is to make use of a colour scheme with some colours indicating healthier foods while others signalling the 'not-so-healthy' aspect of a particular packaged food product. Gravitas: India may soon make food labelling mandatory × When such a decision comes into effect, brands may find it tough to hide information about their products possibly having too much sugar or too much salt and so on. It may also make it hard for them to hide true information about ingredients by making use of convoluted or cryptic wording on the packages. Reports suggest that Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has been put in charge of the plan. India will not be the first country making such rules stricter. At least seven countries have announced plans to have food labels on products. Chile, Israel, Peru, Uruguay and Mexico are some of them. Italy has what is called a 'traffic light approach'. Food items are colour coded. Food with a green packaging is healthy and that in red packaging is deemed unhealthy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × In a country like India which has a 'sweet tooth', sweets or Mithai is consumed during almost every festival. Will just labelling the food product will be enough to deter the average Indian buyer? This may surely be a challenge.

To ensure healthy eating, India may make food labelling mandatory

Indian government's Department of Space is currently working majorly with nations like Russia, the US, France, Japan and Israel in the domain of space science and technology. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This is in line with the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) efforts towards pursuing cooperation with space agencies of other nations, by carrying out joint missions, sharing expertise in applications of space technology, organising International events in India, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Till date, India has signed space cooperation documents with agencies of 60 countries and five multinational bodies, revealed the Department of Space Annual Report for 2021-22. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fascinating-fact-giant-moon-of-saturn-has-a-earth-like-landscape-474452" hreflang="en">Fascinating fact: Saturn Moon Titan has Earth-like landscape</a>

Listing out the major areas of cooperation between ISRO and foreign space agencies, the report talks about NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, for which ISRO shipped the S-band SAR payload and other hardware's to NASA's JPL for conducting various joint S-band &amp; L-band payload integration tests. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With regard to Russia, four Indian astronaut candidates as part of the Gaganyaan, which is India's Human Spaceflight Programme, successfully completed the general astronaut training at Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre, Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As a new initiative under India-Russia space cooperation, ISRO and the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) have started exploring cooperation in space research. &nbsp;

French Space Agency CNES and ISRO are taking their ties beyond Earth observation and working in the areas of Human Spaceflight and Space Situational Awareness (SSA - the tracking of space debris and orbital objects). In addition to this, there are also deliberations over establishing an ISRO ground station in French Guyana. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar on a three-day visit to Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties with neighbours

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ISRO and Japanese Space Agency JAXA are working together in the fields of lunar exploration, satellite navigation and Earth observation. The two agencies are specifically working on completing the phase-A study of the Indo-Japan Lunar polar exploration (LUPEX) mission; finalising the instruments to be accommodated lander rover, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ISRO and the European Space Agency (ESA) are working on network and operations support for Indian missions, such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1, etc. &nbsp;

"As part of India-Australia space cooperation, discussions are progressing towards establishing ISRO's transportable ground station at Australia's Cocos-Keeling island (CKI) for Gaganyaan mission. ISRO and Israel Space Agency (ISA) have a kick-off meeting for cooperation in flying ISA's Electric Propulsion System (EPS) in ISRO's small satellite," the report added. &nbsp;

The Indian Space agency's launch and mission schedules were badly hit during the pandemic years 2020 and 2021 and the accumulated backlog continues. This has meant that work is still underway on multiple high-profile missions, such as Chandrayaan-3 (Lunar exploration via Lander and Rover), Gaganyaan (Human Spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit) and&nbsp;Aditya L1 (spacecraft mission to probe the sun). &nbsp;&nbsp;

While it was initially said that Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan (maiden unmanned flight) could take place in 2022, recent announcements in the Indian Parliament indicate that they might happen only in 2023 and beyond.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Indian government's Department of Space is currently working majorly with nations like Russia, the US, France, Japan and Israel in the domain of space science and technology.

Indian government's Department of Space is currently working majorly with nations like Russia, the US, France, Japan and Israel in the domain of space science and technology. This is in line with the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) efforts towards pursuing cooperation with space agencies of other nations, by carrying out joint missions, sharing expertise in applications of space technology, organising International events in India, etc. Till date, India has signed space cooperation documents with agencies of 60 countries and five multinational bodies, revealed the Department of Space Annual Report for 2021-22. Also Read | Fascinating fact: Saturn Moon Titan has Earth-like landscape Listing out the major areas of cooperation between ISRO and foreign space agencies, the report talks about NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, for which ISRO shipped the S-band SAR payload and other hardware's to NASA's JPL for conducting various joint S-band & L-band payload integration tests. With regard to Russia, four Indian astronaut candidates as part of the Gaganyaan, which is India's Human Spaceflight Programme, successfully completed the general astronaut training at Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre, Russia. As a new initiative under India-Russia space cooperation, ISRO and the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS) have started exploring cooperation in space research. French Space Agency CNES and ISRO are taking their ties beyond Earth observation and working in the areas of Human Spaceflight and Space Situational Awareness (SSA - the tracking of space debris and orbital objects). In addition to this, there are also deliberations over establishing an ISRO ground station in French Guyana. Watch: Indian EAM Jaishankar on a three-day visit to Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties with neighbours × ISRO and Japanese Space Agency JAXA are working together in the fields of lunar exploration, satellite navigation and Earth observation. The two agencies are specifically working on completing the phase-A study of the Indo-Japan Lunar polar exploration (LUPEX) mission; finalising the instruments to be accommodated lander rover, etc. ISRO and the European Space Agency (ESA) are working on network and operations support for Indian missions, such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1, etc. "As part of India-Australia space cooperation, discussions are progressing towards establishing ISRO's transportable ground station at Australia's Cocos-Keeling island (CKI) for Gaganyaan mission. ISRO and Israel Space Agency (ISA) have a kick-off meeting for cooperation in flying ISA's Electric Propulsion System (EPS) in ISRO's small satellite," the report added. The Indian Space agency's launch and mission schedules were badly hit during the pandemic years 2020 and 2021 and the accumulated backlog continues. This has meant that work is still underway on multiple high-profile missions, such as Chandrayaan-3 (Lunar exploration via Lander and Rover), Gaganyaan (Human Spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit) and Aditya L1 (spacecraft mission to probe the sun). While it was initially said that Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan (maiden unmanned flight) could take place in 2022, recent announcements in the Indian Parliament indicate that they might happen only in 2023 and beyond. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘India has signed documents on space cooperation with 60 countries’

Security forces in India killed two terrorists belonging to the Al Badr outfit in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. Jammu and Kashmir police said that 62 terrorists have been killed in the various operations in the Kashmir valley in the first four months of 2022.&nbsp;

Jammu Kashmir police said that 39 terrorists belonging to&nbsp;&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba, 15 terrorists of Jaish, six terrorists of Hizbul Mujahideen, and two&nbsp;terrorists of Al Badr have been killed this year.

Out of 62 terrorists killed, 15 were foreigners, mostly Pakistanis, and 47 were locals.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-three-arrested-for-trafficking-arms-for-terrorists-474521">Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists</a>

"Total terrorists killed in encounters so far this year= 62. Terror Outfit wise: LeT = 39, JeM=15, HM =06, Al-Badr =02. Among the total 62 killed terrorists, 47 were local terrorists &amp; 15 foreign terrorists," said Vijay Kumar, IGP Kashmir.&nbsp;

Earlier today, two local militants of the Al-Badr outfit were killed in an encounter between the security forces and militants in Mitrigam village of Murran area in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India slams UNSC 'reform' backed by the West

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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-jammu-and-kashmir-cm-omar-abdullah-says-pagd-should-fight-elections-jointly-against-bjp-474341">Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah says PAGD should fight elections jointly against BJP</a>

"Both killed terrorists have been identified as Aijaz Hafiz and Shahid Ayub. 02 AK 47 rifles recovered. Both belong to Al Badr outfit. Both had been involved in a series of attacks on outside labourers in Pulwama in the month of March-April 2022.Operation is over," said Kumar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jammu Kashmir police informed that a soldier was also injured during initial exchange of fire. The officer has been shifted to the hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

Security forces in India killed two terrorists belonging to the Al Badr outfit in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. Jammu and Kashmir police said that 62 terrorists have been killed in the various operations in the Kashmir valley in the first four months of 2022.

Security forces in India killed two terrorists belonging to the Al Badr outfit in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. Jammu and Kashmir police said that 62 terrorists have been killed in the various operations in the Kashmir valley in the first four months of 2022. Jammu Kashmir police said that 39 terrorists belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba, 15 terrorists of Jaish, six terrorists of Hizbul Mujahideen, and two terrorists of Al Badr have been killed this year. Out of 62 terrorists killed, 15 were foreigners, mostly Pakistanis, and 47 were locals. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists "Total terrorists killed in encounters so far this year= 62. Terror Outfit wise: LeT = 39, JeM=15, HM =06, Al-Badr =02. Among the total 62 killed terrorists, 47 were local terrorists & 15 foreign terrorists," said Vijay Kumar, IGP Kashmir. Earlier today, two local militants of the Al-Badr outfit were killed in an encounter between the security forces and militants in Mitrigam village of Murran area in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district. Watch | Gravitas: India slams UNSC 'reform' backed by the West Also read | Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah says PAGD should fight elections jointly against BJP "Both killed terrorists have been identified as Aijaz Hafiz and Shahid Ayub. 02 AK 47 rifles recovered. Both belong to Al Badr outfit. Both had been involved in a series of attacks on outside labourers in Pulwama in the month of March-April 2022.Operation is over," said Kumar. Jammu Kashmir police informed that a soldier was also injured during initial exchange of fire. The officer has been shifted to the hospital for treatment.

India: Two terrorists killed in Pulwama encounter; so far 62 terrorists killed in Kashmir this year

India reported 2,541 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours while the total number of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,60,086 with 16,522 active cases, as per the figures released by the Union Ministry on Monday.

In the last 24 hours, the active COVID-19 caseload has grown by 649 cases. According to the government, active cases account for 0.04 per cent of total infections with a national COVID-19 recovery rate at&nbsp;98.75 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-cases-multiply-at-iit-madras-health-authorities-advise-caution-across-tamil-nadu-in-india-473137">Covid cases multiply at IIT Madras; Health authorities advise caution across Tamil Nadu in India</a>

Officials in Jammu and Kashmir reported 12 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, bringing the total number of infections to 4,53,990. Tamil Nadu registered 52 new Covid cases on Sunday taking the&nbsp;overall caseload to 34,53,552 cases.

Watch |&nbsp;What living with COVID-19 virus looks like? Experts answer

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More than 70 per cent&nbsp;of the deaths were caused by comorbidities, said the ministry.

The number of persons who have recovered from infection has risen to 4,25,21,341 with a 1.21 per cent fatality rate.

The ministry said, “Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," adding that the state-by-state distribution of figures is still being verified and reconciled.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-fourth-wave-delhi-makes-wearing-masks-compulsory-again-472335">Covid fourth wave? Delhi makes wearing masks compulsory again</a>

As Covid cases began to surge raising fears of a fourth wave, India's capital Delhi has made wearing face masks mandatory once more.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 2,541 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours while the total number of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,60,086 with 16,522 active cases, as per the figures released by the Union Ministry on Monday.

India reported 2,541 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours while the total number of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,60,086 with 16,522 active cases, as per the figures released by the Union Ministry on Monday. In the last 24 hours, the active COVID-19 caseload has grown by 649 cases. According to the government, active cases account for 0.04 per cent of total infections with a national COVID-19 recovery rate at 98.75 per cent. Also read | Covid cases multiply at IIT Madras; Health authorities advise caution across Tamil Nadu in India Officials in Jammu and Kashmir reported 12 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, bringing the total number of infections to 4,53,990. Tamil Nadu registered 52 new Covid cases on Sunday taking the overall caseload to 34,53,552 cases. Watch | What living with COVID-19 virus looks like? Experts answer More than 70 per cent of the deaths were caused by comorbidities, said the ministry. The number of persons who have recovered from infection has risen to 4,25,21,341 with a 1.21 per cent fatality rate. The ministry said, “Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," adding that the state-by-state distribution of figures is still being verified and reconciled. Also read | Covid fourth wave? Delhi makes wearing masks compulsory again As Covid cases began to surge raising fears of a fourth wave, India's capital Delhi has made wearing face masks mandatory once more. (With inputs from agencies)

India records rise in active COVID-19 cases

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany. In response to question of WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Flasbarth said, "All our partners, for sure including India can trust that will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation.".&nbsp;

State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth was on a 2-day India visit from Thursday to Friday (April 21-22). During the visit he called on Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and held talks with officials from India's environment, power, renewable and coal ministry. His visit comes ahead of PM Modi's visit to Germany in the first week of May.

WION: How has been your India visit?

Jochen Flasbarth: I am not starting at zero. Lot of collaboration and contact with my Indian counterpart in the past. Therefore, it was very easy. we are very frank and very focused on solution. On energy, climate, sustainable development, (we) had fruitful discussion.&nbsp;

WION: Your visit precedes the visit of PM Modi to Germany next week. How significant is your visit in the light of that?

Jochen Flasbarth: I don't want to overestimate my visit to Delhi but to get good results we need to talk between the ministries, different areas of common interest and politics and Ofcourse green transition, climate and energy transition but also sustainable development, areas I know are close to your prime minister and same for German Chancellor and I hope, my talks with colleagues will be helpful.

WION: How will two countries engage, now that a new government is in Germany?. PM Modi and Ms Merkel were close. Can you talk a little bit on how new German establishment will have the talks?&nbsp;

Jochen Flasbarth: All our partners, for sure including India can trust that we will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation. I think, there was a very driven govt in Germany in the past with regard to our partners and it will be even more in the case of new govt. It is absolute internationally committed and it's multilateral and it knows where our friends and partners are sitting, and one place is New Delhi.

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany.

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany. In response to question of WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Flasbarth said, "All our partners, for sure including India can trust that will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation.". State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth was on a 2-day India visit from Thursday to Friday (April 21-22). During the visit he called on Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and held talks with officials from India's environment, power, renewable and coal ministry. His visit comes ahead of PM Modi's visit to Germany in the first week of May. WION: How has been your India visit? Jochen Flasbarth: I am not starting at zero. Lot of collaboration and contact with my Indian counterpart in the past. Therefore, it was very easy. we are very frank and very focused on solution. On energy, climate, sustainable development, (we) had fruitful discussion. WION: Your visit precedes the visit of PM Modi to Germany next week. How significant is your visit in the light of that? Jochen Flasbarth: I don't want to overestimate my visit to Delhi but to get good results we need to talk between the ministries, different areas of common interest and politics and Ofcourse green transition, climate and energy transition but also sustainable development, areas I know are close to your prime minister and same for German Chancellor and I hope, my talks with colleagues will be helpful. WION: How will two countries engage, now that a new government is in Germany?. PM Modi and Ms Merkel were close. Can you talk a little bit on how new German establishment will have the talks? Jochen Flasbarth: All our partners, for sure including India can trust that we will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation. I think, there was a very driven govt in Germany in the past with regard to our partners and it will be even more in the case of new govt. It is absolute internationally committed and it's multilateral and it knows where our friends and partners are sitting, and one place is New Delhi.

Berlin sees a friend in Delhi, says German government official Flasbarth 

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep. This act of goodwill has further enhanced the bilateral ties between India and the Indian Ocean littoral state. Notably, India's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar is on a three-day (Apr 21-23rd) visit to Seychelles to further deepen the ties.

On April 14th, the sailor was on-board the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel SCGS Zoroaster transiting Indian waters and sailing back home, when she reported severe abdominal pain. Since the foreign ship Zoroaster was being escorted by Indian Navy's INS Garuda, the sailor was shifted to the Indian ship for further medical management and evacuation. Later that afternoon, India's indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi successfully completed the medical evacuation.

Then, the patient who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and was observed to be in a stable condition. In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Sea King 42C helicopters at Kochi. Eventually, the ALH chopper with a Naval Medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15 km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West Coast. In a little over four hours from the time of the chopper having lifted off from Kochi, the patient was brought to the city for further treatment, on April 14th .&nbsp;

Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from 11-12th April 2022. Zoroaster is a Fast Attack Craft constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021. The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam. The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep.

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India's Western coast, near Lakshadweep. This act of goodwill has further enhanced the bilateral ties between India and the Indian Ocean littoral state. Notably, India's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar is on a three-day (Apr 21-23rd) visit to Seychelles to further deepen the ties. On April 14th, the sailor was on-board the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel SCGS Zoroaster transiting Indian waters and sailing back home, when she reported severe abdominal pain. Since the foreign ship Zoroaster was being escorted by Indian Navy's INS Garuda, the sailor was shifted to the Indian ship for further medical management and evacuation. Later that afternoon, India's indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), operated from the Indian Navy's INS Garuda base in Kochi successfully completed the medical evacuation. Then, the patient who was brought to INS Garuda Naval Air Base in Kochi was shifted to INHS Sanjivani by ambulance and was observed to be in a stable condition. In order to facilitate a medical evacuation, the Indian Navy had prepared the ALH and Sea King 42C helicopters at Kochi. Eventually, the ALH chopper with a Naval Medical officer on-board took off from the base and headed towards INS Sharda, which was 15 km north of Minicoy Islands, off India's West Coast. In a little over four hours from the time of the chopper having lifted off from Kochi, the patient was brought to the city for further treatment, on April 14th . Seychelles Peoples Defence Force Ship Zoroaster was on a goodwill visit to Kochi from 11-12th April 2022. Zoroaster is a Fast Attack Craft constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineering (GRSE) Kolkata and presented to Seychelles People’s Defence Force in 2021. The ship is on her return passage to Seychelles after participating in multi-lateral exercise MILAN-22 at Visakhapatnam. The ship also visited Kochi in January 2022 during her passage to Visakhapatnam. The visit of Zoroaster to Kochi has enhanced the defence cooperation between the two countries.

After her recovery, India repatriates Seychelles Coast Guard sailor who had mid-sea medical emergency

The COVID-19 cluster in IIT-Madras in Chennai has grown to a total of 55 cases, a significant number considering that there are only 286 active cases recorded in the southern state. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan, the 55 cases on campus were confirmed after performing 1,420 tests over the last couple of days. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He added that most of the students had mild symptoms, such as throat irritation and fever, while their blood oxygen saturation levels remained safe. With this cluster emerging and the pan-India trend of rising cases, the Tamil Nadu Government will be ramping up daily COVID-19 testing from 14,000 per day to 18,000 and eventually 25,000. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-18-sri-lankan-refugees-reach-tamil-nadu-shores-total-influx-reaches-60-473051" hreflang="en">India: 18 Sri Lankan refugees reach Tamil Nadu shores, total influx reaches 60</a>

Elaborating on the cases in Tamil Nadu, Dr Radhakrishnan, said, of the 286 active cases, only 17 were hospitalised, whereas the others were either isolated at home or in isolation facilities. Further, he stated that two patients are in the intensive care unit and seven of them are under oxygen support. On the cases in IIT Madras, he pointed towards the possibility of the spread having originated from students, who had recently travelled from other parts of the country and joined campus. &nbsp;

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Total of 55 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iitmadras?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iitmadras</a> confirmed from 1400+ tests 
 
Y'day, when 33 cases were confirmed on campus, <a href="https://twitter.com/iitmadras?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iitmadras</a> went ahead with an in-person press meet on "Covid management" 
 
In a statement, IITM says they are fully geared up to meet exigency, all students vaxxed <a href="https://t.co/qHUYCyyR0q">pic.twitter.com/qHUYCyyR0q</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1517754741211934720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Friday, when a total of 33 cases were reported from the IIT Madras Campus, the institute had gone ahead with an in-person press meet on covid management, despite there being a known outbreak of a COVID-19 cluster and the further risk of spread. Notably, the institute had not formally communicated about the virus outbreak on campus or the prevailing situation there, when rolling out in-person invitations. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: More Sri Lankan refugees reach India

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In a statement, IIT Madras later said that they were fully geared up to meet any exigency and all students were vaccinated, the institute would handle the current cases effectively, based on the lessons they learnt from handling the outbreaks during past three waves. &nbsp;

On Friday, Dr Radhakrishnan emphasised the need for people across Tamil Nadu to mask-up and follow Covid protocols. While stressing that the masking rule had never been relaxed by the government, he said that the collection of a Rs 500 penalty from mask-rule violators would resume with immediate effect. Allaying concerns of COVID-19 bed shortages that may arise, he said that there were more than 1.1 lakh beds in Tamil Nadu at present, in comparison with 1.8 lakh beds during the peak phase of the pandemic.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 cluster in IIT-Madras in Chennai has grown to a total of 55 cases, a significant number considering that there are only 286 active cases recorded in the southern state.

The COVID-19 cluster in IIT-Madras in Chennai has grown to a total of 55 cases, a significant number considering that there are only 286 active cases recorded in the southern state. According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan, the 55 cases on campus were confirmed after performing 1,420 tests over the last couple of days. He added that most of the students had mild symptoms, such as throat irritation and fever, while their blood oxygen saturation levels remained safe. With this cluster emerging and the pan-India trend of rising cases, the Tamil Nadu Government will be ramping up daily COVID-19 testing from 14,000 per day to 18,000 and eventually 25,000. Also Read | India: 18 Sri Lankan refugees reach Tamil Nadu shores, total influx reaches 60 Elaborating on the cases in Tamil Nadu, Dr Radhakrishnan, said, of the 286 active cases, only 17 were hospitalised, whereas the others were either isolated at home or in isolation facilities. Further, he stated that two patients are in the intensive care unit and seven of them are under oxygen support. On the cases in IIT Madras, he pointed towards the possibility of the spread having originated from students, who had recently travelled from other parts of the country and joined campus. Total of 55 #COVID19 cases in #iitmadras confirmed from 1400+ tests Y'day, when 33 cases were confirmed on campus, @iitmadras went ahead with an in-person press meet on "Covid management" In a statement, IITM says they are fully geared up to meet exigency, all students vaxxed pic.twitter.com/qHUYCyyR0q — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 23, 2022 × On Friday, when a total of 33 cases were reported from the IIT Madras Campus, the institute had gone ahead with an in-person press meet on covid management, despite there being a known outbreak of a COVID-19 cluster and the further risk of spread. Notably, the institute had not formally communicated about the virus outbreak on campus or the prevailing situation there, when rolling out in-person invitations. Watch: Gravitas: More Sri Lankan refugees reach India × In a statement, IIT Madras later said that they were fully geared up to meet any exigency and all students were vaccinated, the institute would handle the current cases effectively, based on the lessons they learnt from handling the outbreaks during past three waves. On Friday, Dr Radhakrishnan emphasised the need for people across Tamil Nadu to mask-up and follow Covid protocols. While stressing that the masking rule had never been relaxed by the government, he said that the collection of a Rs 500 penalty from mask-rule violators would resume with immediate effect. Allaying concerns of COVID-19 bed shortages that may arise, he said that there were more than 1.1 lakh beds in Tamil Nadu at present, in comparison with 1.8 lakh beds during the peak phase of the pandemic.

Covid cases multiply at IIT Madras; Health authorities advise caution across Tamil Nadu in India

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics.

The Somali-origin Congresswoman from Minnesota was flown to the Line of Control (LoC) in the Chakothi sector, where she was briefed on the situation before and after the fresh understanding between the Armies of Pakistan and India to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement, according to official sources in Islamabad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-condemns-visit-of-us-congresswoman-ilhan-omar-to-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-472702">India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir</a>

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told reporters at his daily news conference on Thursday that "As I understand it, Representative Omar is not visiting Pakistan on US government sponsored travel.

At a media briefing in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi criticised Omar for visiting the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"We have noted that US Representative Ilhan Omar has visited a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir that is currently illegally occupied by Pakistan.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan

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"If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home, that may be her business. But violating our territorial integrity and sovereignty in its pursuit makes it ours. This visit is condemnable, the spokesperson said on Thursday.

Omar is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan.

In Islamabad, she met President Arif Alvi, new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and ousted prime minister Imran Khan and others. She also met president of PoK Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry and discussed the Kashmir issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-carrying-skydivers-triggers-false-alarm-police-evacuate-us-capitol-over-probable-threat-472540">Army plane carrying army skydivers triggers false alarm, police evacuate US Capitol over ‘probable threat’</a>

India and Pakistan signed a ceasefire agreement in 2003, but it has hardly been followed in letter and spirit over the past several years with more violations than observance of the pact.

In February last year, the two countries issued a joint statement in which they agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the LoC and other sectors.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's ongoing visit to Pakistan is not sponsored by the US government, a top State Department official has said, hours after India condemned her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying her travel to the region violated its territorial integrity and reflected her "narrow-minded" politics. The Somali-origin Congresswoman from Minnesota was flown to the Line of Control (LoC) in the Chakothi sector, where she was briefed on the situation before and after the fresh understanding between the Armies of Pakistan and India to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement, according to official sources in Islamabad. Also read | India condemns visit of US congresswoman Ilhan Omar to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price told reporters at his daily news conference on Thursday that "As I understand it, Representative Omar is not visiting Pakistan on US government sponsored travel. At a media briefing in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi criticised Omar for visiting the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). "We have noted that US Representative Ilhan Omar has visited a part of the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir that is currently illegally occupied by Pakistan. Watch | Gravitas: U.S. congresswoman Ilhan Omar to visit Pakistan "If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home, that may be her business. But violating our territorial integrity and sovereignty in its pursuit makes it ours. This visit is condemnable, the spokesperson said on Thursday. Omar is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan. In Islamabad, she met President Arif Alvi, new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and ousted prime minister Imran Khan and others. She also met president of PoK Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry and discussed the Kashmir issue. Also read | Army plane carrying army skydivers triggers false alarm, police evacuate US Capitol over ‘probable threat’ India and Pakistan signed a ceasefire agreement in 2003, but it has hardly been followed in letter and spirit over the past several years with more violations than observance of the pact. In February last year, the two countries issued a joint statement in which they agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the LoC and other sectors.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's Pak visit not sponsored by US governement: Official

Former prime minister (PM) Imran Khan seems to be in no mood to accept defeat. The leader is instead looking to wage a war against the "imported government". &nbsp;

Khan is asking to hold the elections early or else his supporters will reach the capital in a bid to overthrow current PM Shehbaz Sharif government. &nbsp;

The leader seems to have given an indirect warning to military establishment of the Pakistan, media reports said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-spent-usd-5-million-on-helicopter-rides-to-home-alleges-minister-472813" hreflang="en">Imran Khan spent USD 5 million on helicopter rides to home, alleges minister</a>

While giving the ultimatum in an hour-long speech during a rally, he has also asked to rectify their “mistake” of ousting him. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Thursday night, former PM addressed supporters of his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in rally at Minar-i-Pakistan in Lahore. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While praising India again, Khan said, "Hindustan's foreign policy is for its people. How come our foreign policy can be for others." &nbsp;&nbsp;

He targetted the new coalition government and those who helped them come to power. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan Political drama: Shehbaz Sharif vs Imran Khan over foreign gifts

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In a veiled reference to the military, the leader, said, "Those who had committed this mistake of ousting my government should rectify it by holding fresh elections without any delay." &nbsp;

"Wait for my call when I will invite you to Islamabad. I am not giving a call just to the PTI but all Pakistanis. I want to make it clear that I don't want confrontation. The actual party has just begun, our campaign will intensify [...] wait for my call. I don't want anything else except early elections," he said. &nbsp;

The leader thanked the people of Lahore for thronging the rally in large numbers. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former prime minister (PM) Imran Khan seems to be in no mood to accept defeat. The leader is instead looking to wage a war against the "imported government". Khan is asking to hold the elections early or else his supporters will reach the capital in a bid to overthrow current PM Shehbaz Sharif government.

Former prime minister (PM) Imran Khan seems to be in no mood to accept defeat. The leader is instead looking to wage a war against the "imported government". Khan is asking to hold the elections early or else his supporters will reach the capital in a bid to overthrow current PM Shehbaz Sharif government. The leader seems to have given an indirect warning to military establishment of the Pakistan, media reports said. Also Read: Imran Khan spent USD 5 million on helicopter rides to home, alleges minister While giving the ultimatum in an hour-long speech during a rally, he has also asked to rectify their “mistake” of ousting him. On Thursday night, former PM addressed supporters of his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in rally at Minar-i-Pakistan in Lahore. While praising India again, Khan said, "Hindustan's foreign policy is for its people. How come our foreign policy can be for others." He targetted the new coalition government and those who helped them come to power. Watch: Pakistan Political drama: Shehbaz Sharif vs Imran Khan over foreign gifts × In a veiled reference to the military, the leader, said, "Those who had committed this mistake of ousting my government should rectify it by holding fresh elections without any delay." "Wait for my call when I will invite you to Islamabad. I am not giving a call just to the PTI but all Pakistanis. I want to make it clear that I don't want confrontation. The actual party has just begun, our campaign will intensify [...] wait for my call. I don't want anything else except early elections," he said. The leader thanked the people of Lahore for thronging the rally in large numbers. (With inputs from agencies)

In Lahore rally, former Pak PM Imran Khan targets military in veiled reference, praises India again  

The Maldives government has taken strong action against anti-India campaigns that are carried out in the country by the supporters of former president Abdulla Yameen and his party the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).

The Maldives Police on Thursday issued a statement that they have removed all ‘India out’ banners from the residence of Yameen and the headquarters of his PPM party.

Under Yameen, who was the president from 2013 to 2018, the country had drifted close to China. His presidency was controversial, especially his declaration of a state of emergency that saw arbitrary arrest of politicians and judges.&nbsp;

Earlier Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed had expressed concerns over the ‘India out’ banners that were put up across the national capital Male by the opposition.

He said that these banners against a friendly country should not be allowed.

According to Avas, a Maldives newspaper, Nasheed in the parliament said, “My opinion is that the law does not allow large banners that disparage neighbouring countries to be hung from tall buildings of Male City.”

Meanwhile, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has issued an executive order that has called for action against such campaigns that insinuate hatred towards any country.

India and Maldives share a close relationship, from people to people ties to maritime security.

India has been involved in a number of development projects in the country. This year itself has seen a plethora of high-level visits to the country from India, which includes the visit of India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Doval and Navy chief Admiral R&nbsp;Hari Kumar.

The Maldives government has taken strong action against anti-India campaigns that are carried out in the country by the supporters of former president Abdulla Yameen and his party the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).

The Maldives government has taken strong action against anti-India campaigns that are carried out in the country by the supporters of former president Abdulla Yameen and his party the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM). The Maldives Police on Thursday issued a statement that they have removed all ‘India out’ banners from the residence of Yameen and the headquarters of his PPM party. Under Yameen, who was the president from 2013 to 2018, the country had drifted close to China. His presidency was controversial, especially his declaration of a state of emergency that saw arbitrary arrest of politicians and judges. Earlier Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed had expressed concerns over the ‘India out’ banners that were put up across the national capital Male by the opposition. He said that these banners against a friendly country should not be allowed. According to Avas, a Maldives newspaper, Nasheed in the parliament said, “My opinion is that the law does not allow large banners that disparage neighbouring countries to be hung from tall buildings of Male City.” Meanwhile, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has issued an executive order that has called for action against such campaigns that insinuate hatred towards any country. India and Maldives share a close relationship, from people to people ties to maritime security. India has been involved in a number of development projects in the country. This year itself has seen a plethora of high-level visits to the country from India, which includes the visit of India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Doval and Navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar.

Maldives takes strong action against anti-India campaigns

In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara. The home guard took the vehicle saying that it was needed for the convoy of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy who is&nbsp;supposed to travel to Prakasam District of the state on April 22.

The incident took place at Ongole in Andhra Pradesh. The home guard approached the family when it was having food at a hotel. The home guard said that the car (a Toyota Innova) along with its driver was needed as Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was due to visit the district.

Baffled by this development, the family tried to reason with the home guard but couldn't succeed. The family had to spend the night at Ongole bus stand.

The issue took political turn when former state chief minister Chandrababu Naidu criticised the current government

"Who gave the right to officials to cause such inconvenience and suffering to a family by obstructing their journey?'' asked Naidu&nbsp;

"Has the state economy slipped into such a pitiable state that it was not able to arrange a car outof its own resources for the CM's convoy? What sort of example the officials were sending to civil society by resorting to such a car snatching incident?" he said further.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed his displeasure at the incident. He has ordered strict action against the erring officials.&nbsp;

This kind of measure will not be tolerated especially when people are in trouble," said the CM in a statement.

Acting on CM's order, the Andhra Pradesh Transport Department has suspended P Rupal Reddy, the home guard and A Sandhya, Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector, holding them responsible for this incident. 
&nbsp;

In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara.

In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara. The home guard took the vehicle saying that it was needed for the convoy of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy who is supposed to travel to Prakasam District of the state on April 22. The incident took place at Ongole in Andhra Pradesh. The home guard approached the family when it was having food at a hotel. The home guard said that the car (a Toyota Innova) along with its driver was needed as Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was due to visit the district. Baffled by this development, the family tried to reason with the home guard but couldn't succeed. The family had to spend the night at Ongole bus stand. The issue took political turn when former state chief minister Chandrababu Naidu criticised the current government "Who gave the right to officials to cause such inconvenience and suffering to a family by obstructing their journey?'' asked Naidu "Has the state economy slipped into such a pitiable state that it was not able to arrange a car outof its own resources for the CM's convoy? What sort of example the officials were sending to civil society by resorting to such a car snatching incident?" he said further. Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed his displeasure at the incident. He has ordered strict action against the erring officials. This kind of measure will not be tolerated especially when people are in trouble," said the CM in a statement. Acting on CM's order, the Andhra Pradesh Transport Department has suspended P Rupal Reddy, the home guard and A Sandhya, Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector, holding them responsible for this incident.

Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister

Kerala government has responded to the Centre's query regarding the updation of coronavirus (COVID-19) data on an everyday basis. A delay could lead to discrepancies in overall data released by the Indian Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

After India reported a 90 per cent jump in Covid cases in a single day, the health ministry on Monday asked Kerala to provide updated COVID-19 data daily.&nbsp;

The Centre suggested that the sudden increase in cases was a result of bulk back-reporting after April 13, which means a gap of five days till Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/covid-19-in-india-expert-weighs-in-on-reports-of-fourth-wave-472078">COVID-19 in India: Expert weighs in on reports of fourth wave</a>

The alleged lags and discrepancies might have skewed pandemic monitoring indicators including cases, deaths and the positivity rate in the South Asian nation.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (April 19) health ministry released daily Covid data and there was a steep decline in cases as it recorded 1,247 infections in the past 24 hours as compared to 2,183 on Monday.&nbsp;

In a two-page communication, the country's Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said, "It has been observed that Kerala has reported its State-level COVID-19 data after a gap of five days [since April 13]."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/delhi-records-over-500-covid-19-cases-no-mandatory-rtpcr-required-for-domestic-air-travel-472034">Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel</a>

"This has impacted and skewed the status of India’s key monitoring indicators such as cases, deaths and positivity. India has reported a 90% increase in new cases and 165% increase in positivity in a single day," he added.&nbsp;

Responding to that, Kerala's State Health Minister Veena George on Tuesday (April 19) said that they have been sending the daily Covid figures through e-mail.&nbsp;

"Such a thing has not happened at all and we all are surprised on how the Centre can say such a thing, when everyday we have been sending the daily Covid figures through e-mail. The Centre is propagating false things," said George and added there were around 200 new cases on Monday.&nbsp;

The Union health ministry requested for daily updation of the required details in the letter to the Kerala Principal Secretary, Health Rajan N. Khobragade.&nbsp;

The letter noted that the daily and diligent reporting of data is critical to arrive at a meaningful understanding of the pandemic at the district, state and national level and ensure that any anomalies, surge or emerging trends can be captured in a timely manner.&nbsp;

"Quick and continuous update of data will assist in India`s fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and will help not only in tracking and monitoring but will also help in defining the strategies and plans at the Centre, State and District level," Agarwal further said in the letter.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;China reports more deaths as Covid-19 count rises to 10

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Kerala government has responded to the Centre's query regarding the updation of coronavirus (COVID-19) data on an everyday basis. A delay could lead to discrepancies in overall data released by the Indian Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Kerala government has responded to the Centre's query regarding the updation of coronavirus (COVID-19) data on an everyday basis. A delay could lead to discrepancies in overall data released by the Indian Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. After India reported a 90 per cent jump in Covid cases in a single day, the health ministry on Monday asked Kerala to provide updated COVID-19 data daily. The Centre suggested that the sudden increase in cases was a result of bulk back-reporting after April 13, which means a gap of five days till Monday. ALSO READ | COVID-19 in India: Expert weighs in on reports of fourth wave The alleged lags and discrepancies might have skewed pandemic monitoring indicators including cases, deaths and the positivity rate in the South Asian nation. On Tuesday (April 19) health ministry released daily Covid data and there was a steep decline in cases as it recorded 1,247 infections in the past 24 hours as compared to 2,183 on Monday. In a two-page communication, the country's Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said, "It has been observed that Kerala has reported its State-level COVID-19 data after a gap of five days [since April 13]." ALSO READ | Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel "This has impacted and skewed the status of India’s key monitoring indicators such as cases, deaths and positivity. India has reported a 90% increase in new cases and 165% increase in positivity in a single day," he added. Responding to that, Kerala's State Health Minister Veena George on Tuesday (April 19) said that they have been sending the daily Covid figures through e-mail. "Such a thing has not happened at all and we all are surprised on how the Centre can say such a thing, when everyday we have been sending the daily Covid figures through e-mail. The Centre is propagating false things," said George and added there were around 200 new cases on Monday. The Union health ministry requested for daily updation of the required details in the letter to the Kerala Principal Secretary, Health Rajan N. Khobragade. The letter noted that the daily and diligent reporting of data is critical to arrive at a meaningful understanding of the pandemic at the district, state and national level and ensure that any anomalies, surge or emerging trends can be captured in a timely manner. "Quick and continuous update of data will assist in India`s fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and will help not only in tracking and monitoring but will also help in defining the strategies and plans at the Centre, State and District level," Agarwal further said in the letter. WATCH | China reports more deaths as Covid-19 count rises to 10 ×

What caused 90% jump in Covid cases in India? Central, Kerala state govts in tussle over 'late reporting'

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence.

In a series of tweets, Gadkari said, "We have constituted an expert committee to enquire into these incidents and make recommendations on remedial steps.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/isro-chairman-dr-s-somanath-recalls-his-early-days-at-isro-what-it-takes-to-be-a-space-scientist-472764">ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath recalls his early days at ISRO, what it takes to be a space scientist</a>

"Based on the reports, we will issue necessary orders on the defaulting companies," the road transport and highways minister said.

The transport minister said that the government will soon issue quality-centric guidelines for electric vehicles.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kartarpur Pilgrimage under scanner

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Gadkari has asked the companies to recall all defective batches of vehicles immediately, adding, "If any company is found negligent in their processes, a heavy penalty will be imposed."

"Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, our government is committed to ensure safety of each and every commuter," he tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/home-guard-snatches-citizens-vehicle-for-cm-gets-suspended-472680">Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister</a>

The government had ordered a probe last month after an e-scooter launched by ride-hailing operator Ola's electric mobility arm caught fire in Pune.

The Centre for Fire Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES) had been asked to probe the circumstances that led to the incident and also suggest remedial measures, according to the road transport ministry. The ministry had also asked CFEES to share the findings along with its suggestions on measures to prevent such incidents.

So far, three incidents have come to the fore where Pure EV, one Ola, two Okinawa, and 20 Jitendra EV scooters have caught fire.

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence.

With increasing incidents of electric two-wheelers catching fire across India, including one that led to the death of an 80-year-old man, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said an expert committee would probe the matter while warning the companies that they will be heavily penalised for negligence. In a series of tweets, Gadkari said, "We have constituted an expert committee to enquire into these incidents and make recommendations on remedial steps. Also read | ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath recalls his early days at ISRO, what it takes to be a space scientist "Based on the reports, we will issue necessary orders on the defaulting companies," the road transport and highways minister said. The transport minister said that the government will soon issue quality-centric guidelines for electric vehicles. Watch | Gravitas: Kartarpur Pilgrimage under scanner Gadkari has asked the companies to recall all defective batches of vehicles immediately, adding, "If any company is found negligent in their processes, a heavy penalty will be imposed." "Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, our government is committed to ensure safety of each and every commuter," he tweeted. Also read | Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister The government had ordered a probe last month after an e-scooter launched by ride-hailing operator Ola's electric mobility arm caught fire in Pune. The Centre for Fire Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES) had been asked to probe the circumstances that led to the incident and also suggest remedial measures, according to the road transport ministry. The ministry had also asked CFEES to share the findings along with its suggestions on measures to prevent such incidents. So far, three incidents have come to the fore where Pure EV, one Ola, two Okinawa, and 20 Jitendra EV scooters have caught fire.

After EV battery explosion claims 1 life, Indian minister takes tough stand on companies

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said.

By end of this month, the delivery of the critical system will be completed and thereafter it will be deployed.

The first squadron of the S-400 system arrived in India in December 2021 and has been deployed on the Punjab border to thwart any air strikes from both Pakistan and China.

India has procured five S-400 systems from Russia through a $5-billion deal signed in October 2018.

All the five units of the S-400 system, which can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km, are expected to be operational by 2022.

The S-400 system is capable of tracking, engaging and addressing the threat of Chinese or Pakistani fighters the moment they take off from air bases. The system can track multiple targets at multiple ranges and neutralise them simultaneously.

India decided to upgrade its military infrastructure when the country was locked in a major faceoff with China along the Line of Actual Control in July 2020. The threat of two-front war - from China and Pakistan - made India go for large scale arms deals and Russia is still one of India`s largest arms suppliers.

There were apprehension on delay in delivery of critical weapon system after Russia`s war with Ukraine. However, with delivery of the second squadron of S-400 system, India is hopeful of getting other military capabilities.

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited India and had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and apprised them about the ongoing crisis in Ukraine while discussing bilateral ties.

Lavrov and Jaishankar held discussions over Russia`s crude oil offer, rupee-ruble payment, ongoing arms deals, Ukraine crisis, and the situation in Afghanistan and Iran.

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said.

Amid the Ukraine war and sanctions, Russia has begun delivering the second squadron of S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile defence system to India, ahead of schedule, officials said. By end of this month, the delivery of the critical system will be completed and thereafter it will be deployed. The first squadron of the S-400 system arrived in India in December 2021 and has been deployed on the Punjab border to thwart any air strikes from both Pakistan and China. India has procured five S-400 systems from Russia through a $5-billion deal signed in October 2018. All the five units of the S-400 system, which can take down a hostile aircraft or missile at a range between 40km and 400km, are expected to be operational by 2022. The S-400 system is capable of tracking, engaging and addressing the threat of Chinese or Pakistani fighters the moment they take off from air bases. The system can track multiple targets at multiple ranges and neutralise them simultaneously. India decided to upgrade its military infrastructure when the country was locked in a major faceoff with China along the Line of Actual Control in July 2020. The threat of two-front war - from China and Pakistan - made India go for large scale arms deals and Russia is still one of India`s largest arms suppliers. There were apprehension on delay in delivery of critical weapon system after Russia`s war with Ukraine. However, with delivery of the second squadron of S-400 system, India is hopeful of getting other military capabilities. Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited India and had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and apprised them about the ongoing crisis in Ukraine while discussing bilateral ties. Lavrov and Jaishankar held discussions over Russia`s crude oil offer, rupee-ruble payment, ongoing arms deals, Ukraine crisis, and the situation in Afghanistan and Iran.

Amid Ukraine war, Russia starts delivery of second S-400 missile system to India

In an accident, three army soldiers have died and five others were injured in India’s Kashmir Valley. &nbsp;

The army vehicle overturned in South Kashmir’s Shopian district when it was en route to the encounter site in Badigam village, where four terrorists of LeT were killed by the security forces. The accident happened near Kanipora village of South Kashmir. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-in-indias-jammu-and-kashmir-encounter-470989" hreflang="en">Four terrorists killed in India’s Jammu and Kashmir encounter &nbsp;</a>

Due to bad weather, the roads were wet, which led to the skidding of the vehicle, the army said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Owing to the wet road conditions, the driver seems to have lost control over the vehicle and it skidded off the road. The eight injured soldiers were shifted to District Hospital, Shopian, where two were declared dead. One soldier had received minor injuries and was discharged from the hospital,” said PRO, Indian Army.

Watch:&nbsp;Good news for India's farm growth, India to receive normal monsoon rains

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"The five other injured soldiers were evacuated to 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar, where another, the third, soldier succumbed to his injuries. Four soldiers are presently at the 92 Base Hospital and are being treated,” added PRO.

In an accident, three army soldiers have died and five others were injured in India’s Kashmir Valley. The army vehicle overturned in South Kashmir’s Shopian district when it was en route to the encounter site in Badigam village, where four terrorists of LeT were killed by the security forces.

In an accident, three army soldiers have died and five others were injured in India’s Kashmir Valley. The army vehicle overturned in South Kashmir’s Shopian district when it was en route to the encounter site in Badigam village, where four terrorists of LeT were killed by the security forces. The accident happened near Kanipora village of South Kashmir. Also Read: Four terrorists killed in India’s Jammu and Kashmir encounter Due to bad weather, the roads were wet, which led to the skidding of the vehicle, the army said. “Owing to the wet road conditions, the driver seems to have lost control over the vehicle and it skidded off the road. The eight injured soldiers were shifted to District Hospital, Shopian, where two were declared dead. One soldier had received minor injuries and was discharged from the hospital,” said PRO, Indian Army. Watch: Good news for India's farm growth, India to receive normal monsoon rains × "The five other injured soldiers were evacuated to 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar, where another, the third, soldier succumbed to his injuries. Four soldiers are presently at the 92 Base Hospital and are being treated,” added PRO.

Three Indian soldiers die in road accident while on way to anti-terror operation in Kashmir

WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday. &nbsp;

On Wednesday, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) seems to have told the Meta Platforms Inc's company that it can hike the users to 100 million, the sources said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Presently, there are 40 million users. In a statement to Reuters, the NPCI has confirmed the development. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/600-year-old-hindu-deity-idols-worth-millions-seized-in-indias-puducherry-470752" hreflang="en">600-year-old Hindu deity idols worth millions seized in India’s Puducherry</a>&nbsp;

This approval from the NPCI is sure to come as a relief to the company, which has more than 500 million users in India.&nbsp;

In 2020, the NPCI had given approval to WhatsApp for launching the payments service. The company has made concerted efforts to comply with Indian regulations. These include data storage norms requiring all payments-related data to be stored locally. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Fourth consecutive G7 invite for India since 2019

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The firm had started with 20 million users. In November last year, the limit was raised to 40 million. &nbsp;

In India's digital payment market, Paytm, Walmart’s PhonePe and Alphabet Inc's Google Pay are other big players. &nbsp;

India has witnessed a huge rise in the online transactions, e-wallet and lending services in the recent years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday.

WhatsApp seems to have got regulatory approval to increase users by more than double for its payments service to 100 million in India, a Reuters report said citing sources on Wednesday. On Wednesday, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) seems to have told the Meta Platforms Inc's company that it can hike the users to 100 million, the sources said. Presently, there are 40 million users. In a statement to Reuters, the NPCI has confirmed the development. Also Read: 600-year-old Hindu deity idols worth millions seized in India’s Puducherry This approval from the NPCI is sure to come as a relief to the company, which has more than 500 million users in India. In 2020, the NPCI had given approval to WhatsApp for launching the payments service. The company has made concerted efforts to comply with Indian regulations. These include data storage norms requiring all payments-related data to be stored locally. Watch: WION Exclusive: Fourth consecutive G7 invite for India since 2019 × The firm had started with 20 million users. In November last year, the limit was raised to 40 million. In India's digital payment market, Paytm, Walmart’s PhonePe and Alphabet Inc's Google Pay are other big players. India has witnessed a huge rise in the online transactions, e-wallet and lending services in the recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report

Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government.

Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days.

The Union home ministry said in a notification than Jan was the handler of Punjab's Pathankot air force station terror attack in January 2016 in which seven security personnel and one civilian were killed.

Jan, 42, is the operational commander and part of the core planning committee of the dreaded terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He continues to operate from the launching pads located in Pakistan and is involved in recruitment of cadres for their training and coordinate attack plans at targets in India, the home ministry said.

Jan is also accused in various cases registered and being investigated by the National Investigation Agency. He had been declared proclaimed offender in these cases.

After the terror attack at the Pathankot air base, a five-member team of Pakistani investigators had visited the air base and collected evidence for three days and met witnesses and survivors.

However, after the Pakistani team returned home, it put the blame on India for the attack.

Jan was born on January 30, 1982 and a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan.

A Red Corner Notice was also issued against him. Jan is now 34th individual who has been designated as terrorist by the government.

On April 8, the government had designated Hafiz Talha Saeed, a key leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the son of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, a terrorist.

On Monday, Pakistani national Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir, who was involved in the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, was designated as a terrorist.

The JeM has been responsible for a series of deadly attacks in India, mostly in Jammu and Kashmir, in which scores of civilians and security personnel have been killed over the years.

JeM founder Maulana Masood Azhar, who was released by India in exchange for the release of a hijacked Indian Airlines flight from Kandahar in 1999, is one of the most wanted terrorists in India, along with LeT founder Hafiz Saeed and the LeT 'operational commander' Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi.

India has been consistently seeking Azhar's custody but Pakistan has refused to comply.

The JeM is listed as a terrorist organisation under the First Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or the UAPA.

The UAPA has been enacted to provide for more effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of associations and individuals and for dealing with terrorist activities and for matters connected therewith.

The act empowers the central government to notify the name of an individual in its Fourth Schedule if it believes that he is involved in terrorism.&nbsp;

Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government. Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days.

Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 terror attack on Pathankot air base, has been designated as a terrorist by the government. Jan alias Jan Ali Kashif is the third terrorist to have been designated as a terrorist by the central government in the last five days. The Union home ministry said in a notification than Jan was the handler of Punjab's Pathankot air force station terror attack in January 2016 in which seven security personnel and one civilian were killed. Jan, 42, is the operational commander and part of the core planning committee of the dreaded terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He continues to operate from the launching pads located in Pakistan and is involved in recruitment of cadres for their training and coordinate attack plans at targets in India, the home ministry said. Jan is also accused in various cases registered and being investigated by the National Investigation Agency. He had been declared proclaimed offender in these cases. After the terror attack at the Pathankot air base, a five-member team of Pakistani investigators had visited the air base and collected evidence for three days and met witnesses and survivors. However, after the Pakistani team returned home, it put the blame on India for the attack. Jan was born on January 30, 1982 and a resident of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan. A Red Corner Notice was also issued against him. Jan is now 34th individual who has been designated as terrorist by the government. On April 8, the government had designated Hafiz Talha Saeed, a key leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the son of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, a terrorist. On Monday, Pakistani national Mohiuddin Aurangzeb Alamgir, who was involved in the terror attack on a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, was designated as a terrorist. The JeM has been responsible for a series of deadly attacks in India, mostly in Jammu and Kashmir, in which scores of civilians and security personnel have been killed over the years. JeM founder Maulana Masood Azhar, who was released by India in exchange for the release of a hijacked Indian Airlines flight from Kandahar in 1999, is one of the most wanted terrorists in India, along with LeT founder Hafiz Saeed and the LeT 'operational commander' Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi. India has been consistently seeking Azhar's custody but Pakistan has refused to comply. The JeM is listed as a terrorist organisation under the First Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or the UAPA. The UAPA has been enacted to provide for more effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of associations and individuals and for dealing with terrorist activities and for matters connected therewith. The act empowers the central government to notify the name of an individual in its Fourth Schedule if it believes that he is involved in terrorism.

India designates Pak handler of 2016 Pathankot air base attack as terrorist

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham. 
 
The Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) had earlier planned to enter Chanu in the higher 55kg division to maximise India's medal chances at the CWG, to be held from July 28 to August 8. 
 
The Manipuri ace, who had already qualified for the CWG 49kg event courtesy of being the top-ranked Indian weightlifter in the division, accepted the proposal. She then made the 55kg cut by winning gold at the Singapore Weightlifting International in February, which was the final CWG qualifying event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-considering-resigning-from-his-position-in-wake-of-imran-khans-ouster-as-pakistan-pm-469994">Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM</a> 
 
However, a change in entry rules by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) closed the Tokyo Olympics silver medallists'&nbsp;prospects of competing in the 55kg at CWG 2022. 
 
According to the new rule, a country's top-ranked weightlifter in a category qualifies for the CWG but if they withdraw, the next best lifter doesn't get the berth automatically. As per the old rule, the spot would have gone to the next best or qualified lifter. 
 
Mirabai Chanu's fellow Manipuri lifter Bindyarani Devi is the top-ranked Indian lifter in the 55kg division. Bindyarani was supposed to move up to the 59kg division if Mirabai could have participated in the 55kg as per the IWLF's initial plans, an olympics.com report said on Sunday. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/woman-shares-pic-of-14-year-old-sons-bruised-hand-smashed-phone-after-cristiano-ronaldos-outburst-469977">Woman shares pic of 14-year-old son's bruised hand, smashed phone after Cristiano Ronaldo's outburst</a> 
 
Jhilli Dalabehera was expected to take up Chanu's spot in the 49kg division while Poppy Hazarika was to be India's entry for the 64kg event. 
 
After the latest development, former world champion Mirabai Chanu will move back to her 49kg for the Commonwealth Games while Bindyarani Dev and Poppy Hazarika will compete in the 55kg and 59kg, respectively. India will have no entry for the women's 64kg now. 
 
The 27-year old Chanu is the reigning Commonwealth Games champion in the women's 49kg and all her major international honours, including the Olympic silver and world championships gold medal, have come in in the 48/49kg category. She also holds the world record for clean and jerk (119kg) in the division.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in the women's 55kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been rejected, which means she will move back to her pet 49kg division to compete at the quadrennial meet in Birmingham. The Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) had earlier planned to enter Chanu in the higher 55kg division to maximise India's medal chances at the CWG, to be held from July 28 to August 8. The Manipuri ace, who had already qualified for the CWG 49kg event courtesy of being the top-ranked Indian weightlifter in the division, accepted the proposal. She then made the 55kg cut by winning gold at the Singapore Weightlifting International in February, which was the final CWG qualifying event. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja considering resigning as PCB chief in the wake of Imran Khan's ouster as Pakistan PM However, a change in entry rules by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) closed the Tokyo Olympics silver medallists' prospects of competing in the 55kg at CWG 2022. According to the new rule, a country's top-ranked weightlifter in a category qualifies for the CWG but if they withdraw, the next best lifter doesn't get the berth automatically. As per the old rule, the spot would have gone to the next best or qualified lifter. Mirabai Chanu's fellow Manipuri lifter Bindyarani Devi is the top-ranked Indian lifter in the 55kg division. Bindyarani was supposed to move up to the 59kg division if Mirabai could have participated in the 55kg as per the IWLF's initial plans, an olympics.com report said on Sunday. ALSO READ: Woman shares pic of 14-year-old son's bruised hand, smashed phone after Cristiano Ronaldo's outburst Jhilli Dalabehera was expected to take up Chanu's spot in the 49kg division while Poppy Hazarika was to be India's entry for the 64kg event. After the latest development, former world champion Mirabai Chanu will move back to her 49kg for the Commonwealth Games while Bindyarani Dev and Poppy Hazarika will compete in the 55kg and 59kg, respectively. India will have no entry for the women's 64kg now. The 27-year old Chanu is the reigning Commonwealth Games champion in the women's 49kg and all her major international honours, including the Olympic silver and world championships gold medal, have come in in the 48/49kg category. She also holds the world record for clean and jerk (119kg) in the division.

Commonwealth Games 2022: Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in women's 55kg category rejected

The Pakistani rupee fell to a new low of 191 rupees to the dollar on Thursday, as the country's currency was shaken by a continuing political turmoil.

The rupee has been falling for months, but it plummeted in March after opposition parties filed a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan, which resulted in the national assembly being dissolved last week.

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The Pakistani rupee has lost 18 percent of its value versus the US dollar since July 2021.

Relationships with the US and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are also crucial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-trust-vote-against-imran-khan-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-procedure-469533">Also read | No-trust vote against Imran Khan: Here's all you need to know about the procedure</a>

Pakistan has received a $6 billion rescue package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to help with its balance of payment problems in 2019.&nbsp;

Traders' advice causes panic purchasing in the market during periods of currency devaluation.

They persuade importers to buy more in a short period of time in order to meet their payment obligations, resulting in a dollar shortage in the market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/im-the-dim-how-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-turned-out-to-be-a-terrible-caricature-of-the-champion-cricketer-467848">Opinion | 'Im the dim': How Pakistan PM Imran Khan turned out to be a terrible caricature of the champion cricketer</a>

At the same time, they encourage exporters not to sell dollars and instead stockpile them in anticipation of further depreciation, which will reduce greenback supply, according to Geo News.&nbsp;

For the previous 11 months, the rupee has been on a downward trend.

It has lost 23.58 percent (or Rs35.91) since its all-time high of Rs152.27 in May 2021.

Watch | Gravitas: What will be Imran Khan's next step?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-will-be-imran-khans-next-step-469473/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Pakistani rupee fell to a new low of 191 rupees to the dollar on Thursday, as the country's currency was shaken by a continuing political turmoil. The rupee has been falling for months, but it plummeted in March after opposition parties filed a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan, which resulted in the national assembly being dissolved last week.

The Pakistani rupee fell to a new low of 191 rupees to the dollar on Thursday, as the country's currency was shaken by a continuing political turmoil. The rupee has been falling for months, but it plummeted in March after opposition parties filed a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan, which resulted in the national assembly being dissolved last week. Today the Pakistani rupee was trading at 186.28 on the open market. × The Pakistani rupee has lost 18 percent of its value versus the US dollar since July 2021. Relationships with the US and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are also crucial. Also read | No-trust vote against Imran Khan: Here's all you need to know about the procedure Pakistan has received a $6 billion rescue package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to help with its balance of payment problems in 2019. Traders' advice causes panic purchasing in the market during periods of currency devaluation. They persuade importers to buy more in a short period of time in order to meet their payment obligations, resulting in a dollar shortage in the market. Opinion | 'Im the dim': How Pakistan PM Imran Khan turned out to be a terrible caricature of the champion cricketer At the same time, they encourage exporters not to sell dollars and instead stockpile them in anticipation of further depreciation, which will reduce greenback supply, according to Geo News. For the previous 11 months, the rupee has been on a downward trend. It has lost 23.58 percent (or Rs35.91) since its all-time high of Rs152.27 in May 2021. Watch | Gravitas: What will be Imran Khan's next step? (With inputs from agencies)

187 to a US dollar: Political crisis in Pakistan led to the free fall of its currency

India's campaign at the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 came to an end on Saturday after the country's top shuttlers -- PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth -- lost their respective semifinal matches at the Palma Stadium, here. 
 
Sindhu lost her women's singles last-four match 14-21, 17-21 against the world No. 4 An Seyoung in 48 minutes. 
 
Heading into the fixture, Sindhu, a former world champion had failed to beat the 20-year-old South Korean in any of their three previous meetings. The last time the two played each other, An Seyoung had denied the Indian ace the BWF World Tour Finals 2021 title. 
 
Sindhu tried to start the match aggressively but some astonishing retrievals from An Seyoung frustrated her as the South Korean raced to a 7-1 lead.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-jr-hockey-world-cup-india-storms-into-semifinal-with-clinical-3-0-victory-over-south-korea-469361">Women's Jr Hockey World Cup: India storms into semifinals with clinical 3-0 victory over South Korea</a> 
 
The Indian shuttler managed to offset the early blows with a series of good points of her own but it was An Seyoung with an 11-6 lead heading into the first mid-game interval of the match. 
 
Despite Sindhu's best efforts, An Seyoung controlled the flow of the match and won the first game 21-14. 
 
Looking for a sharp response, Sindhu took a 3-0 lead in the second game but it was not long before An Seyoung responded and it was the South Korean again who led by two points at the break. 
 
An Seyoung's court coverage was exquisite and her range of shorts continued to baffle the Indian star as the match progressed. 
 
Trailing 14-9, Sindhu upped the ante and managed to bring down the deficit to just a single point with the help of some brilliant cross-court winners. 
 
However, it wasn't quite enough to topple the in-form South Korean who wrapped up the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-pv-sindhu-defeats-thailands-busanan-ongbamrungphan-to-enter-womens-singles-semifinal-469354">Korea Open: PV Sindhu defeats Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan to enter women's singles semifinals</a> 
 
Meanwhile, Kidambi Srikanth also lost his men's singles semis against Indonesian second-seed Jonatan Christie by a 19-21, 16-21 scoreline. 
 
Srikanth, seeded fifth, started the match well and led for most of the first game but the world No. 8 Cristie flipped the script right at the end to take the lead. 
 
The second game was a tight affair in the initial stages but from a 14-all scoreline, Christie stepped up to take control and ended the match in 49 minutes. 
 
Srikanth's loss brought India`s campaign at the Korea Open to an end.

India's campaign at the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 came to an end on Saturday after the country's top shuttlers -- PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth -- lost their respective semifinal matches at the Palma Stadium, here.

India's campaign at the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 came to an end on Saturday after the country's top shuttlers -- PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth -- lost their respective semifinal matches at the Palma Stadium, here. Sindhu lost her women's singles last-four match 14-21, 17-21 against the world No. 4 An Seyoung in 48 minutes. Heading into the fixture, Sindhu, a former world champion had failed to beat the 20-year-old South Korean in any of their three previous meetings. The last time the two played each other, An Seyoung had denied the Indian ace the BWF World Tour Finals 2021 title. Sindhu tried to start the match aggressively but some astonishing retrievals from An Seyoung frustrated her as the South Korean raced to a 7-1 lead. ALSO READ: Women's Jr Hockey World Cup: India storms into semifinals with clinical 3-0 victory over South Korea The Indian shuttler managed to offset the early blows with a series of good points of her own but it was An Seyoung with an 11-6 lead heading into the first mid-game interval of the match. Despite Sindhu's best efforts, An Seyoung controlled the flow of the match and won the first game 21-14. Looking for a sharp response, Sindhu took a 3-0 lead in the second game but it was not long before An Seyoung responded and it was the South Korean again who led by two points at the break. An Seyoung's court coverage was exquisite and her range of shorts continued to baffle the Indian star as the match progressed. Trailing 14-9, Sindhu upped the ante and managed to bring down the deficit to just a single point with the help of some brilliant cross-court winners. However, it wasn't quite enough to topple the in-form South Korean who wrapped up the match. ALSO READ: Korea Open: PV Sindhu defeats Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan to enter women's singles semifinals Meanwhile, Kidambi Srikanth also lost his men's singles semis against Indonesian second-seed Jonatan Christie by a 19-21, 16-21 scoreline. Srikanth, seeded fifth, started the match well and led for most of the first game but the world No. 8 Cristie flipped the script right at the end to take the lead. The second game was a tight affair in the initial stages but from a 14-all scoreline, Christie stepped up to take control and ended the match in 49 minutes. Srikanth's loss brought India`s campaign at the Korea Open to an end.

Korea Open: PV Sindhu loses to An Seyoung in semi-final, Jonatan Christie topples Kidambi Srikanth

Third seed PV Sindhu beats seventh seed Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand in straight games to enter the semi-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Friday here at the Palma Stadium.

Two-time Olympic Champion PV Sindhu was trailing 2-5 in the opening game but the Indian clawed her way back winning four points on the trot to take a 6-5 lead.

From there on there was no looking back for the World No.7 Indian as she won eight consecutive points en route to winning the game 21-10.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-pv-sindhu-outclasses-aya-ohori-to-enter-quarter-finals-kidambi-srikanth-defeats-misha-zilberman-469092">Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman</a>

In the second game, Sindhu took a lead right from the start and took an 8-2 lead. The Indian shuttler maintained the lead against the Thai shuttler Busanan Ongbamrungphan winning the game 21-16.

PV Sindhu won the quarter-final match 21-10 21-16 in 43 minutes and she will take on either local girl and second seed An Seyoung of South Korea or Saena Kawakami of Japan.&nbsp;

Third seed PV Sindhu beats seventh seed Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand in straight games to enter the semi-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Friday here at the Palma Stadium.

Third seed PV Sindhu beats seventh seed Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand in straight games to enter the semi-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Friday here at the Palma Stadium. Two-time Olympic Champion PV Sindhu was trailing 2-5 in the opening game but the Indian clawed her way back winning four points on the trot to take a 6-5 lead. From there on there was no looking back for the World No.7 Indian as she won eight consecutive points en route to winning the game 21-10. ALSO READ: Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman In the second game, Sindhu took a lead right from the start and took an 8-2 lead. The Indian shuttler maintained the lead against the Thai shuttler Busanan Ongbamrungphan winning the game 21-16. PV Sindhu won the quarter-final match 21-10 21-16 in 43 minutes and she will take on either local girl and second seed An Seyoung of South Korea or Saena Kawakami of Japan.

Korea Open: PV Sindhu defeats Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan to enter women's singles semifinals

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium.

The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated world No. 26 Aya Ohori from Japan 21-15, 21-10 in the second round of her women's singles event.

PV Sindhu took 37 minutes to notch up her 12th win in as many games against Ohori.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-pv-sindhu-kidambi-srikanth-march-into-second-round-with-easy-wins-468835">Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins</a>

Sindhu will now be up against Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the quarter-finals.

PV Sindhu who is seventh in the badminton world rankings began the match, not on a great note but kept her nose ahead with an 11-9 lead at the first break.

The Indian shuttler then shifted the gears to pocket the first game with ease.

Sindhu was trailing 8-4 in the second game but won four points on the trot to level the score and then went up 11-9 at the second break.

The Indian then dramatically changed the momentum after the resumption by winning 10 straight points to seal the match and sailed into the quarter-finals of the BWF Super 500 event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-organisers-holding-talks-with-british-government-on-participation-of-players-from-russia-belarus-468661">Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus</a>

Later, the former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Misha Zilberman of Israel by 21-18, 21-6.

The world championship silver medallist Indian had to work hard in the first game but eventually managed to win 21-18.

However, the Indian shifted gears in the second game, cruising to a massive 12-0 lead before Misha Zilberman could open his account. Srikanth shrugged off the challenge effortlessly to wrap up the match in 33 minutes.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium. The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated world No. 26 Aya Ohori from Japan 21-15, 21-10 in the second round of her women's singles event. PV Sindhu took 37 minutes to notch up her 12th win in as many games against Ohori. ALSO READ: Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins Sindhu will now be up against Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the quarter-finals. PV Sindhu who is seventh in the badminton world rankings began the match, not on a great note but kept her nose ahead with an 11-9 lead at the first break. The Indian shuttler then shifted the gears to pocket the first game with ease. Sindhu was trailing 8-4 in the second game but won four points on the trot to level the score and then went up 11-9 at the second break. The Indian then dramatically changed the momentum after the resumption by winning 10 straight points to seal the match and sailed into the quarter-finals of the BWF Super 500 event. ALSO READ: Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus Later, the former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Misha Zilberman of Israel by 21-18, 21-6. The world championship silver medallist Indian had to work hard in the first game but eventually managed to win 21-18. However, the Indian shifted gears in the second game, cruising to a massive 12-0 lead before Misha Zilberman could open his account. Srikanth shrugged off the challenge effortlessly to wrap up the match in 33 minutes.

Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Wednesday stormed into the second round of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating USA's Lauren Lam here at the Palma Stadium.

The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated Lauren Lam 21-15, 21-14 in a match that lasted 34 minutes. Sindhu raced toward an 11-6 lead into the first break of the match.

The Indian had a slight wobble after the restart, allowing Lam to cut the deficit down to 16-13 but a great recovery from the 2017 Korea Open champion saw her finishing strongly to go a game up.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-organisers-holding-talks-with-british-government-on-participation-of-players-from-russia-belarus-468661">Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus</a>

The American offered no easy points to Sindhu in Game 2 as the Indian world No. 7 was leading by just a point at the mid-game break. With the game balanced on a knife's edge at 15-14, PV Sindhu shifted gears and he took six points on the trot to mark a sudden end to the affair.

The Indian, who is off to round 2 of the BWF Super 500 event, will now meet Japan's Aya Ohori.

Later, former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Malaysian shuttler, Daren Liew by 22-20, 21-11 in a match that lasted for 40 minutes. Once trailing 15-18, Srikanth managed to mount a comeback and win the first game 22-20.

The fifth seed then had little trouble dispatching Daren Liew in the second.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-hs-prannoy-bows-out-in-opening-round-after-shock-loss-to-malaysias-june-wei-cheam-468535">Korea Open: HS Prannoy bows out in opening round after shocking loss to Malaysia's June Wei Cheam</a>

The Indian shuttler will now face Israel's Misha Zilberman in the second round.

Earlier, Indian men's doubles pair M.R. Arjun/Dhruv Kapila received a walkover in the first round of the men's doubles event after South Korea's Ba Da Kim/ Hee Young Park pulled out.

The Indian duo now may come up against Indonesian second seeds Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan, former world champions in round 2.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Wednesday stormed into the second round of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating USA's Lauren Lam here at the Palma Stadium.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Wednesday stormed into the second round of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating USA's Lauren Lam here at the Palma Stadium. The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated Lauren Lam 21-15, 21-14 in a match that lasted 34 minutes. Sindhu raced toward an 11-6 lead into the first break of the match. The Indian had a slight wobble after the restart, allowing Lam to cut the deficit down to 16-13 but a great recovery from the 2017 Korea Open champion saw her finishing strongly to go a game up. ALSO READ: Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus The American offered no easy points to Sindhu in Game 2 as the Indian world No. 7 was leading by just a point at the mid-game break. With the game balanced on a knife's edge at 15-14, PV Sindhu shifted gears and he took six points on the trot to mark a sudden end to the affair. The Indian, who is off to round 2 of the BWF Super 500 event, will now meet Japan's Aya Ohori. Later, former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Malaysian shuttler, Daren Liew by 22-20, 21-11 in a match that lasted for 40 minutes. Once trailing 15-18, Srikanth managed to mount a comeback and win the first game 22-20. The fifth seed then had little trouble dispatching Daren Liew in the second. ALSO READ: Korea Open: HS Prannoy bows out in opening round after shocking loss to Malaysia's June Wei Cheam The Indian shuttler will now face Israel's Misha Zilberman in the second round. Earlier, Indian men's doubles pair M.R. Arjun/Dhruv Kapila received a walkover in the first round of the men's doubles event after South Korea's Ba Da Kim/ Hee Young Park pulled out. The Indian duo now may come up against Indonesian second seeds Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan, former world champions in round 2.

Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins

India's Lakshya Sen came from a game down to beat local boy Choi Ji Hoon 14-21, 21-16, 21-18 in the first round of the men's singles match of the Korea Open Badminton Championship that lasted for one hour and two minutes played here at Palma Stadium.

The World No. 9 Indian survived a scare losing the first game 14-21 to World No. 498.

Both the players were tied at 14-14 and from there on the Korean shuttler took the game away from India's Sen winning seven consecutive points in the second game, the World Championship medallist shuttler made a comeback to win it 21-16 and make it one game apiece.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-hs-prannoy-bows-out-in-opening-round-after-shock-loss-to-malaysias-june-wei-cheam-468535">Korea Open: HS Prannoy bows out in opening round after shocking loss to Malaysia's June Wei Cheam</a>

Both the players were tied at 6-6 and from thereon Lakshya Sen won four consecutive points to take the lead and ultimately went on to win the game.

In the third and final game, the Korean shuttler took an early lead of 9-5 but the World No. 9 Indian won five points on the trot to take a 10-9 lead.

In a closely contested game, both the shuttlers were tied at 18-18 and then Lakshya Sen raised his game to win three consecutive points and pocket the final game 21-18.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-2-daniil-medvedev-could-be-banned-from-competing-in-wimbledon-this-year-says-report-468526">World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev could be banned from competing in Wimbledon this year: Report</a>

It was not the best of days for Indian shuttlers in doubles events as in Men's Doubles India's pair of Krishna Prasad Garaga and Vishnuvardhan Goud Panjala lost to Indonesia's Pramudya Kusumawardana and Yeremia Erich Yoche Yacob Rambitan 14-21, 19-21.

In another Men's doubles match India's Navaneeth Bokka and B. Sumeeth Reddy pair lost to Malaysia's Yew Sin Ong and Ee Yi Teo pair 14-21, 12-21.

India's Lakshya Sen came from a game down to beat local boy Choi Ji Hoon 14-21, 21-16, 21-18 in the first round of the men's singles match of the Korea Open Badminton Championship that lasted for one hour and two minutes played here at Palma Stadium.

India's Lakshya Sen came from a game down to beat local boy Choi Ji Hoon 14-21, 21-16, 21-18 in the first round of the men's singles match of the Korea Open Badminton Championship that lasted for one hour and two minutes played here at Palma Stadium. The World No. 9 Indian survived a scare losing the first game 14-21 to World No. 498. Both the players were tied at 14-14 and from there on the Korean shuttler took the game away from India's Sen winning seven consecutive points in the second game, the World Championship medallist shuttler made a comeback to win it 21-16 and make it one game apiece. ALSO READ: Korea Open: HS Prannoy bows out in opening round after shocking loss to Malaysia's June Wei Cheam Both the players were tied at 6-6 and from thereon Lakshya Sen won four consecutive points to take the lead and ultimately went on to win the game. In the third and final game, the Korean shuttler took an early lead of 9-5 but the World No. 9 Indian won five points on the trot to take a 10-9 lead. In a closely contested game, both the shuttlers were tied at 18-18 and then Lakshya Sen raised his game to win three consecutive points and pocket the final game 21-18. ALSO READ: World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev could be banned from competing in Wimbledon this year: Report It was not the best of days for Indian shuttlers in doubles events as in Men's Doubles India's pair of Krishna Prasad Garaga and Vishnuvardhan Goud Panjala lost to Indonesia's Pramudya Kusumawardana and Yeremia Erich Yoche Yacob Rambitan 14-21, 19-21. In another Men's doubles match India's Navaneeth Bokka and B. Sumeeth Reddy pair lost to Malaysia's Yew Sin Ong and Ee Yi Teo pair 14-21, 12-21.

Korea Open: India's Lakshya Sen sweats it out versus Choi Ji Hoon to earn hard-fought win

After a gap of two years, India’s Supreme Court began full-fledged physical hearing on Monday, after it had to switch to virtual hearing due to mounting Covid cases in the country.

On March 30, Chief Justice NV Ramana had said that the court will resume the physical hearings from April 4 onwards. “Monday onwards, we are opening fully, physically,” he said.

The Chief Justice added that they would still conduct virtual hearings on Monday and Friday provided the advocates ask for it.

Earlier, the top court used to hear matters physically on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and conducted hearings through video conference on Monday and Friday.

Even though the COVID-19 pandemic hindered its functioning at the beginning, the Supreme Court’s openness to adopting technology without any prior experience made sure that the gates of justice remain open to the people even in the most distraught times.

During the 100 days of lockdown between March and August 2020, 1,022 benches were set up. More than 15,000 cases were taken up, of which 4,300 were resolved, reported Hindustan Times newspaper.

During that time, around 51,000 lawyers argued their cases through videoconferencing till August 2020.

At present, more than 150 cases are heard every day by the SC through virtual hearings, the newspaper noted.

During its virtual functioning, the top court delivered some of the most important judgments and settled several prominent questions of law.

Internet part of the fundamental right

In the first month of 2020, a three-judge bench ruled against the internet gag in Jammu and Kashmir following the revocation of Article 370, which had granted special powers to the erstwhile state.

The judgment did not order for restoration of the services in the backdrop of the security concerns, but laid down an important principle that right to access internet is a fundamental right by extension. And hence, it can be demanded as such before a constitutional court.

The court further said that every gag order must give reasons and has to be reviewed regularly by the authorities concerned.

&nbsp;Political parties to publish criminal history of their candidates

In a major fillip for electoral reforms, the Supreme Court had directed political parties to publish the entire criminal history of their candidates contesting for state and national elections. It also asked the parties to detail the reasons that prompted them to field suspected criminals.

The court held that the information should be published in a local as well as a national newspaper as well as on the parties’ social media handles. It should mandatorily be published either within 48 hours of the selection of candidates or less than two weeks before the first date for filing of nominations, whichever is earlier, the court said.

&nbsp;On cryptocurrency

The Supreme Court set aside the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular issued in 2018 that put a complete ban on banking services for the virtual currency.

The court found the 2018 circular to be unreasonable and disproportionate to the objective sought to be achieved by RBI, paving the way for a regulatory regime of cryptocurrency in India instead of a complete ban.

The 2018 circular stated that the entities regulated by RBI are prohibited from providing any service in relation to virtual currencies, including those related to the transfer or receipt of money in accounts relating to the purchase or sale of virtual currencies.

(With inputs from agencies)

After a gap of two years, India’s Supreme Court began full-fledged physical hearing on Monday, after it had to switch to virtual hearing due to mounting Covid cases in the country.

After a gap of two years, India’s Supreme Court began full-fledged physical hearing on Monday, after it had to switch to virtual hearing due to mounting Covid cases in the country. On March 30, Chief Justice NV Ramana had said that the court will resume the physical hearings from April 4 onwards. “Monday onwards, we are opening fully, physically,” he said. The Chief Justice added that they would still conduct virtual hearings on Monday and Friday provided the advocates ask for it. Earlier, the top court used to hear matters physically on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and conducted hearings through video conference on Monday and Friday. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic hindered its functioning at the beginning, the Supreme Court’s openness to adopting technology without any prior experience made sure that the gates of justice remain open to the people even in the most distraught times. During the 100 days of lockdown between March and August 2020, 1,022 benches were set up. More than 15,000 cases were taken up, of which 4,300 were resolved, reported Hindustan Times newspaper. During that time, around 51,000 lawyers argued their cases through videoconferencing till August 2020. At present, more than 150 cases are heard every day by the SC through virtual hearings, the newspaper noted. During its virtual functioning, the top court delivered some of the most important judgments and settled several prominent questions of law. Internet part of the fundamental right In the first month of 2020, a three-judge bench ruled against the internet gag in Jammu and Kashmir following the revocation of Article 370, which had granted special powers to the erstwhile state. The judgment did not order for restoration of the services in the backdrop of the security concerns, but laid down an important principle that right to access internet is a fundamental right by extension. And hence, it can be demanded as such before a constitutional court. The court further said that every gag order must give reasons and has to be reviewed regularly by the authorities concerned. Political parties to publish criminal history of their candidates In a major fillip for electoral reforms, the Supreme Court had directed political parties to publish the entire criminal history of their candidates contesting for state and national elections. It also asked the parties to detail the reasons that prompted them to field suspected criminals. The court held that the information should be published in a local as well as a national newspaper as well as on the parties’ social media handles. It should mandatorily be published either within 48 hours of the selection of candidates or less than two weeks before the first date for filing of nominations, whichever is earlier, the court said. On cryptocurrency The Supreme Court set aside the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular issued in 2018 that put a complete ban on banking services for the virtual currency. The court found the 2018 circular to be unreasonable and disproportionate to the objective sought to be achieved by RBI, paving the way for a regulatory regime of cryptocurrency in India instead of a complete ban. The 2018 circular stated that the entities regulated by RBI are prohibited from providing any service in relation to virtual currencies, including those related to the transfer or receipt of money in accounts relating to the purchase or sale of virtual currencies. (With inputs from agencies)

As India’s SC resumes physical hearing after 2 years, let’s look at key rulings that marked lockdown

In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a slew of agreements on Saturday. Both leaders inaugurated a cross-border railway network, a power transmission line and launched India's RuPay payment card in Nepal.

The Nepalese prime minister, accompanied by a high-level delegation, arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a three-day visit.

On the second day of PM Sher Bahadur Deuba's official India visit, the two countries have had an exchange of agreement on the operationalisation of the 35 km long cross-border rail link between Jayanagar in Bihar and Kurtha in Nepal.&nbsp;

In addition, the Government of India has officially handed over the 90 km long 132 KV double circuit Solu Corridor Transmission Line to the Government of Nepal.&nbsp;

The use of the Indian RuPay card in Nepal was jointly launched by the two prime ministers. This would open new vistas for cooperation in financial connectivity, and is expected to facilitate bilateral tourist flows as well as further strengthen people-to-people linkages between India and Nepal.

PM Deuba said that India is making progress under the visionary leadership of PM Modi.&nbsp;

“I truly admire your love and affection for Nepal and the Nepali people and my visit today will further enforce these innate sentiments,” he said&nbsp;

“We had friendly talks and fruitful discussions on various aspects of India-Nepal relations. We shared our perspectives on further strengthening our friendly ties,” he added.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi welcomed Nepal’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with Nepal, becoming the 105th country to become a signatory to the Framework Agreement of the ISA.

“Held fruitful discussions with PM @SherBDeuba, who has always played a key role in boosting the India-Nepal friendship. We took stock of the full range of bilateral relations including important development projects that will deepen economic as well as cultural linkages,” PM Modi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

“One of the key emerging pillars of India-Nepal cooperation is energy. PM @SherBDeuba and I talked about augmenting cooperation in the power sector. I also welcome Nepal’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance,” he added.&nbsp;

PM Deuba thanked Indian PM for standing by Nepal during the Covid pandemic.&nbsp;

Modi gifted a traditional 'Pahari School' miniature painting from Himachal Pradesh to his Nepalese counterpart during the meeting between the two leaders.&nbsp;

The exquisite traditional painting depicts the season of 'Shravan' or Monsoon which falls during the months of July and August.

It is tradition for Nepalese prime ministers soon after taking over office to visit the southern neighbor India, which has always had major political and economic influence over Nepal.

The visit is seen as an opportunity for Deuba to renew relations with Indian leaders and also for Indian leadership to try to regain their clout.

Since Deuba’s appointment as PM, several high-level visits of senior officials, dignitaries, and even members of ruling parties of both countries have taken place.

In October, a three-member delegation of the Nepali Congress led by head of the party's international department Prakash Sharan Mahat visited India leading to the opening of an informal channel and party to party engagements as well.

In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a slew of agreements on Saturday.

In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed a slew of agreements on Saturday. Both leaders inaugurated a cross-border railway network, a power transmission line and launched India's RuPay payment card in Nepal. The Nepalese prime minister, accompanied by a high-level delegation, arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a three-day visit. On the second day of PM Sher Bahadur Deuba's official India visit, the two countries have had an exchange of agreement on the operationalisation of the 35 km long cross-border rail link between Jayanagar in Bihar and Kurtha in Nepal. In addition, the Government of India has officially handed over the 90 km long 132 KV double circuit Solu Corridor Transmission Line to the Government of Nepal. The use of the Indian RuPay card in Nepal was jointly launched by the two prime ministers. This would open new vistas for cooperation in financial connectivity, and is expected to facilitate bilateral tourist flows as well as further strengthen people-to-people linkages between India and Nepal. PM Deuba said that India is making progress under the visionary leadership of PM Modi. “I truly admire your love and affection for Nepal and the Nepali people and my visit today will further enforce these innate sentiments,” he said “We had friendly talks and fruitful discussions on various aspects of India-Nepal relations. We shared our perspectives on further strengthening our friendly ties,” he added. Prime Minister Modi welcomed Nepal’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with Nepal, becoming the 105th country to become a signatory to the Framework Agreement of the ISA. “Held fruitful discussions with PM @SherBDeuba, who has always played a key role in boosting the India-Nepal friendship. We took stock of the full range of bilateral relations including important development projects that will deepen economic as well as cultural linkages,” PM Modi said in a tweet. “One of the key emerging pillars of India-Nepal cooperation is energy. PM @SherBDeuba and I talked about augmenting cooperation in the power sector. I also welcome Nepal’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance,” he added. PM Deuba thanked Indian PM for standing by Nepal during the Covid pandemic. Modi gifted a traditional 'Pahari School' miniature painting from Himachal Pradesh to his Nepalese counterpart during the meeting between the two leaders. The exquisite traditional painting depicts the season of 'Shravan' or Monsoon which falls during the months of July and August. It is tradition for Nepalese prime ministers soon after taking over office to visit the southern neighbor India, which has always had major political and economic influence over Nepal. The visit is seen as an opportunity for Deuba to renew relations with Indian leaders and also for Indian leadership to try to regain their clout. Since Deuba’s appointment as PM, several high-level visits of senior officials, dignitaries, and even members of ruling parties of both countries have taken place. In October, a three-member delegation of the Nepali Congress led by head of the party's international department Prakash Sharan Mahat visited India leading to the opening of an informal channel and party to party engagements as well.

Nepal, India prime ministers jointly launch projects, vow to deepen ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup.

PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries.

"I would like to congratulate and wish all the best to Australia's women's team, who will be playing the final of ICC Women's ODI World Cup tomorrow," PM Modi said.

Despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, England and Australia will face off in an ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final for the first time in 34 years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-commentators-in-splits-as-babar-azam-celebrates-century-while-still-on-99-in-2nd-odi-vs-australia-467618">WATCH: Commentators in splits as Babar Azam celebrates century while still on 99 in 2nd ODI vs Australia</a>

The Hagley Oval in Christchurch will play host to the showpiece event of the 2022 tournament as Australia go in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England look to defend their crown.

The two sides started their campaigns together almost a month ago in Hamilton and will end them together, one holding the trophy, the other looking on.

Australia have lost only one World Cup final but it was not too far away from the setting for Sunday's finale.

Back in 2000, just down the road from Christchurch at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, Australia lost the closest final the tournament has ever seen, defeated by New Zealand by just four runs.

That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009.

In doing so, they would go on to have a remarkable year also claiming their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory.

It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were wrapped up with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them.

Vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record, the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand's all-time best set in 1997.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-rr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-mumbai-indians-vs-rajsthan-royals-match-467604">MI vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals match</a>

That is not the only record that could be broken on Sunday, Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat.

Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semi-final against South Africa ending on six for 36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup as the 2022 edition continues to be bigger and better than anything we have seen before.

The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England's journey throughout the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 in that she is peaking at exactly the right time.

The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODI cricket with no wicket for 77 against the same opponents she will face on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup. PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup. PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries. "I would like to congratulate and wish all the best to Australia's women's team, who will be playing the final of ICC Women's ODI World Cup tomorrow," PM Modi said. Despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, England and Australia will face off in an ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final for the first time in 34 years. ALSO READ: WATCH: Commentators in splits as Babar Azam celebrates century while still on 99 in 2nd ODI vs Australia The Hagley Oval in Christchurch will play host to the showpiece event of the 2022 tournament as Australia go in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England look to defend their crown. The two sides started their campaigns together almost a month ago in Hamilton and will end them together, one holding the trophy, the other looking on. Australia have lost only one World Cup final but it was not too far away from the setting for Sunday's finale. Back in 2000, just down the road from Christchurch at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, Australia lost the closest final the tournament has ever seen, defeated by New Zealand by just four runs. That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009. In doing so, they would go on to have a remarkable year also claiming their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory. It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were wrapped up with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them. Vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record, the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand's all-time best set in 1997. ALSO READ: MI vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals match That is not the only record that could be broken on Sunday, Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat. Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semi-final against South Africa ending on six for 36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup as the 2022 edition continues to be bigger and better than anything we have seen before. The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England's journey throughout the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 in that she is peaking at exactly the right time. The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODI cricket with no wicket for 77 against the same opponents she will face on Sunday.

India PM Narendra Modi extends best wishes to Team Australia for ICC Women's World Cup final

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