India reported&nbsp;highest single-day spike of 69,878 new coronavirus cases and 945 deaths in last 24 hours on Saturday morning, pushing the tally close to 3 million in less than 16 days.&nbsp;

The total coronavirus cases in the South Asian country has increased to&nbsp;2,975,702 including 697,330 active cases, 22,22,578 cured/discharged/migrated and 55,794 deaths.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) tested&nbsp;1,023,836 samples in the last 24 hours, and the total number of tests conducted has increased to&nbsp;34,491,073.&nbsp;This is the first time the ICMR has reported more than 1 million tests in a single day.

India's recovery rate has also improved&nbsp;to 74.69 per cent on Saturday, i.e. August 22.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-of-india-issues-covid-19-guidelines-for-conduct-of-bihar-polls-322202">Also read:&nbsp;Election Commission of India issues COVID-19 guidelines for conduct of Bihar polls</a>

India stands at the third position in the list of worst-affected countries by the novel coronavirus, with the US and Brazil in the first two spots respectively.

Meanwhile, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) barring gathering of more than four people in the state, with the exception of marriage and 'bhog' functions.

Rajasthan, on Saturday morning, reported&nbsp;612 new COVID-19 positive cases and five deaths, taking the total cases to 68,566 including 938 deaths, 52,721 recoveries and 14,907 active cases.

Odisha recorded 2,819 new cases and 1,927 patients recovered, taking the toll to 75,537, which includes 50,503 recovered patients, 24,582 active cases and 399 deaths — out of which&nbsp;five were reported on Saturday morning.

&nbsp;

India reported highest single-day spike of 69,878 new coronavirus cases and 945 deaths in last 24 hours on Saturday morning, pushing the tally close to 3 million in less than 16 days.

India reported highest single-day spike of 69,878 new coronavirus cases and 945 deaths in last 24 hours on Saturday morning, pushing the tally close to 3 million in less than 16 days. The total coronavirus cases in the South Asian country has increased to 2,975,702 including 697,330 active cases, 22,22,578 cured/discharged/migrated and 55,794 deaths. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) tested 1,023,836 samples in the last 24 hours, and the total number of tests conducted has increased to 34,491,073. This is the first time the ICMR has reported more than 1 million tests in a single day. India's recovery rate has also improved to 74.69 per cent on Saturday, i.e. August 22. Also read: Election Commission of India issues COVID-19 guidelines for conduct of Bihar polls India stands at the third position in the list of worst-affected countries by the novel coronavirus, with the US and Brazil in the first two spots respectively. Meanwhile, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) barring gathering of more than four people in the state, with the exception of marriage and 'bhog' functions. Rajasthan, on Saturday morning, reported 612 new COVID-19 positive cases and five deaths, taking the total cases to 68,566 including 938 deaths, 52,721 recoveries and 14,907 active cases. Odisha recorded 2,819 new cases and 1,927 patients recovered, taking the toll to 75,537, which includes 50,503 recovered patients, 24,582 active cases and 399 deaths — out of which five were reported on Saturday morning.

COVID-19: India records highest single-day spike of 69,878 and 1 million tests

Security checks have been intensified along the Delhi border in Uttar Pradesh's Noida in the wake of an alleged ISIS operative being arrested in the national capital with explosives.

The Delhi Police arrested the alleged ISIS operative with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from central Delhi's Ridge Road area. The accused was arrested on Friday night following a brief exchange of fire.

To this end, vehicles and passengers moving to and fro Delhi are being checked at the border, while Gautam Buddh Nagar district is also on alert mode, Noida Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajesh S said.

Senior police officers also assessed security checks in the district bordering Delhi.

The accused was arrested following a brief exchange of fire in central Delhi's Ridge Road area, the officer said.

Additionally, Uttar Pradesh DGP Hitesh Chandra Awasthi has sounded an alert in the state.

The DGP has asked all police officers, especially those in field posting, to remain alert in view of the arrest and take necessary precautions, a senior official said.

(with inputs from agencies)

Security checks have been intensified along the Delhi border in Uttar Pradesh's Noida in the wake of an alleged ISIS operative being arrested in the national capital with explosives.

Security checks have been intensified along the Delhi border in Uttar Pradesh's Noida in the wake of an alleged ISIS operative being arrested in the national capital with explosives. The Delhi Police arrested the alleged ISIS operative with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from central Delhi's Ridge Road area. The accused was arrested on Friday night following a brief exchange of fire. To this end, vehicles and passengers moving to and fro Delhi are being checked at the border, while Gautam Buddh Nagar district is also on alert mode, Noida Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajesh S said. Senior police officers also assessed security checks in the district bordering Delhi. The accused was arrested following a brief exchange of fire in central Delhi's Ridge Road area, the officer said. Additionally, Uttar Pradesh DGP Hitesh Chandra Awasthi has sounded an alert in the state. The DGP has asked all police officers, especially those in field posting, to remain alert in view of the arrest and take necessary precautions, a senior official said. (with inputs from agencies)

Security checks intensified in Delhi-NCR after ISIS operative held; UP DGP sounds alert

An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices.

Facebook and its top lobbying executive in India, Ankhi Das, are facing criticism after a news report said she opposed applying hate-speech rules to a politician from India’s ruling party.

Facebook has been summoned to appear on Sept. 2 before the information technology panel, which considers issues like social media abuse. The discussion with Facebook will last for 30 minutes, according to a notice published late on Thursday.

“The subject is serious because of Facebook’s extensive reach in India ... and the potential for hate speech to incite violence and other unlawful behaviour,” said the panel member, who declined to be identified.

“How worrying this is, is to be determined after a hearing process is concluded.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/facebook-director-receives-death-threats-for-favouring-bjp-321138">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook Director receives death threats for 'favouring' BJP</a>

Facebook - which has more than 300 million users in India, its biggest market - did not respond to a request for comment.

Facebook has long faced criticism for high-profile content moderation issues.

The Wall Street Journal reported recently that Das told staff that applying hate-speech rules to politicians close to India’s ruling party “would damage the company’s business prospects in the country”.

Facebook has been battling political fallout in India since.

The opposition Congress Party criticised Facebook for its policies, while some ruling-party lawmakers have accused it of censoring nationalist voices.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-says-its-fielding-questions-by-us-regulators-322034">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook says it's fielding questions by US regulators</a>

Separately, Reuters this week reported that some Facebook employees in the United States and beyond have raised questions in internal forums about whether adequate content regulation practices are being followed by the India team and demanded some changes.

Facebook’s soon-to-be-operational content Oversight Board, which some have dubbed the company’s “Supreme Court”, said it was committed to protecting users.&nbsp;

“How Facebook treats posts from public figures that may violate the Community Standards are within the scope of the Board,” the board told Reuters in a statement.

“We won’t shy away from the tough cases and holding Facebook accountable,” said the board, which has powers to overturn decisions by the company and Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on whether individual pieces of content should be allowed or not.

An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices.

An Indian parliamentary committee will question Facebook executives on how the social media giant regulates political content in the country, a panel member told Reuters on Friday, following controversy about its practices. Facebook and its top lobbying executive in India, Ankhi Das, are facing criticism after a news report said she opposed applying hate-speech rules to a politician from India’s ruling party. Facebook has been summoned to appear on Sept. 2 before the information technology panel, which considers issues like social media abuse. The discussion with Facebook will last for 30 minutes, according to a notice published late on Thursday. “The subject is serious because of Facebook’s extensive reach in India ... and the potential for hate speech to incite violence and other unlawful behaviour,” said the panel member, who declined to be identified. “How worrying this is, is to be determined after a hearing process is concluded.” Also read: Facebook Director receives death threats for 'favouring' BJP Facebook - which has more than 300 million users in India, its biggest market - did not respond to a request for comment. Facebook has long faced criticism for high-profile content moderation issues. The Wall Street Journal reported recently that Das told staff that applying hate-speech rules to politicians close to India’s ruling party “would damage the company’s business prospects in the country”. Facebook has been battling political fallout in India since. The opposition Congress Party criticised Facebook for its policies, while some ruling-party lawmakers have accused it of censoring nationalist voices. Also read: Facebook says it's fielding questions by US regulators Separately, Reuters this week reported that some Facebook employees in the United States and beyond have raised questions in internal forums about whether adequate content regulation practices are being followed by the India team and demanded some changes. Facebook’s soon-to-be-operational content Oversight Board, which some have dubbed the company’s “Supreme Court”, said it was committed to protecting users. “How Facebook treats posts from public figures that may violate the Community Standards are within the scope of the Board,” the board told Reuters in a statement. “We won’t shy away from the tough cases and holding Facebook accountable,” said the board, which has powers to overturn decisions by the company and Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on whether individual pieces of content should be allowed or not.

India parliamentary panel to question Facebook on content controversy: Source

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The MD of Maldives Marketing &amp; Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed&nbsp;told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism."

Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home."

The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor.&nbsp;

Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon.&nbsp;

In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists.

COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.&nbsp;

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month. The MD of Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism." Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home." The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor. Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon. In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists. COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.

Maldives eyes Indian tourists as India-Maldives air travel bubble comes into place

A&nbsp;spike of 55,079 cases and 876 deaths were reported in India in the last 24 hours. This has increased the coronavirus tally to&nbsp;2,702,743 including 673,166 active cases, 1,977,780 discharged/migrated and 51,797 deaths.

The country conducted&nbsp;899,864 tests on Monday. A total of 30,941,264 tests have been conducted till August 17,&nbsp;Indian Council of Medical Research reported.

The Ministry of Health said, "Focused implementation of Centre-led strategies has ensured prompt identification, timely isolation and effective clinical treatment, leading to reduced Case Fatality Rate. 30 States/UTs performed better than the national average."

On Monday night,&nbsp;Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson and Managing Director of Bengaluru-based Biocon Ltd, tested positive for coronavirus, she confirmed through a Twitter post.

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I have added to the Covid count by testing positive. Mild symptoms n I hope it stays that way.
— Kiran Mazumdar Shaw (@kiranshaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/kiranshaw/status/1295416763111284738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi reported&nbsp;787 new cases, 740 discharges/recoveries and 18 deaths on Monday night. Total number of cases now stands at 153,367 including 138,301 recovered/discharged/migrated cases, 10,852 active cases and 4,214 deaths.

"The results of the second Sero survey expected in this week. The first survey showed that over 22% of the people from Delhi were exposed to the virus," said&nbsp;Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pandit-jasrajs-death-has-left-a-deep-void-in-indian-cultural-sphere-pm-modi-321282">Also read| Pandit Jasraj's death has left a deep void in Indian cultural sphere: PM Modi</a>

Maharashtra, one of the worst affected states in India, reported 8,493 new cases and 228 deaths. A total of 11,391 patients were also discharged. The total positive cases in the state rise to 604,358 including 428,514 recovered patients and 20,265 deaths. Active cases stand at 1,55,268.&nbsp;

Almost 1,043 prisoners and 302 jail staff tested positive for coronavirus in prisons across Maharashtra so far. Six inmates have died due to the virus.

Punjab, the northern Indian state, reported 1,492 new cases and 51 deaths on Monday night. The total cases in the state rise to 32,695 including 862 deaths and 20,180 patients discharged. Active cases stand at 11,653. The state government has decided to extend restrictions in Jalandhar, Patiala and Ludhiana to contain the spread of the virus. Under these restrictions, all non-essential movements will be prohibited between 9pm to 5am, and all shops and mall will be ordered to close down before 8:30pm, while mall will be shit down by 8pm.

Puducherry reported 370 new cases, 282 recoveries and 9 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases stands at 8,396 in the state till date, including 4,909 recovered cases, 3,364 active cases and 123 deaths so far.

A spike of 55,079 cases and 876 deaths were reported in India in the last 24 hours. This has increased the coronavirus tally to 2,702,743 including 673,166 active cases, 1,977,780 discharged/migrated and 51,797 deaths.

A spike of 55,079 cases and 876 deaths were reported in India in the last 24 hours. This has increased the coronavirus tally to 2,702,743 including 673,166 active cases, 1,977,780 discharged/migrated and 51,797 deaths. The country conducted 899,864 tests on Monday. A total of 30,941,264 tests have been conducted till August 17, Indian Council of Medical Research reported. The Ministry of Health said, "Focused implementation of Centre-led strategies has ensured prompt identification, timely isolation and effective clinical treatment, leading to reduced Case Fatality Rate. 30 States/UTs performed better than the national average." On Monday night, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson and Managing Director of Bengaluru-based Biocon Ltd, tested positive for coronavirus, she confirmed through a Twitter post. I have added to the Covid count by testing positive. Mild symptoms n I hope it stays that way. — Kiran Mazumdar Shaw (@kiranshaw) August 17, 2020 × Delhi reported 787 new cases, 740 discharges/recoveries and 18 deaths on Monday night. Total number of cases now stands at 153,367 including 138,301 recovered/discharged/migrated cases, 10,852 active cases and 4,214 deaths. "The results of the second Sero survey expected in this week. The first survey showed that over 22% of the people from Delhi were exposed to the virus," said Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain. Also read| Pandit Jasraj's death has left a deep void in Indian cultural sphere: PM Modi Maharashtra, one of the worst affected states in India, reported 8,493 new cases and 228 deaths. A total of 11,391 patients were also discharged. The total positive cases in the state rise to 604,358 including 428,514 recovered patients and 20,265 deaths. Active cases stand at 1,55,268. Almost 1,043 prisoners and 302 jail staff tested positive for coronavirus in prisons across Maharashtra so far. Six inmates have died due to the virus. Punjab, the northern Indian state, reported 1,492 new cases and 51 deaths on Monday night. The total cases in the state rise to 32,695 including 862 deaths and 20,180 patients discharged. Active cases stand at 11,653. The state government has decided to extend restrictions in Jalandhar, Patiala and Ludhiana to contain the spread of the virus. Under these restrictions, all non-essential movements will be prohibited between 9pm to 5am, and all shops and mall will be ordered to close down before 8:30pm, while mall will be shit down by 8pm. Puducherry reported 370 new cases, 282 recoveries and 9 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases stands at 8,396 in the state till date, including 4,909 recovered cases, 3,364 active cases and 123 deaths so far.

COVID-19: Coronavirus tally increases by 55,079; death toll crosses 51,000

A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer.

"In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive. With this, the total number of cases in Andhra Pradesh increases to 2,89,829, including 85,945 active cases," the officer said.

Out of the 88 deaths that were reported in the last 24 hours with 10 each from Chittoor and East Godavari each, nine each from Kurnool, Nellore, eight each from Anantapur and West Godavari, seven from Visakhapatnam, six each from Guntur and Kadapa, four each from Prakasam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and three from Krishna district. So far, a total of 2,650 deaths have been reported in the state.&nbsp;

A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive.

A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive. With this, the total number of cases in Andhra Pradesh increases to 2,89,829, including 85,945 active cases," the officer said. Out of the 88 deaths that were reported in the last 24 hours with 10 each from Chittoor and East Godavari each, nine each from Kurnool, Nellore, eight each from Anantapur and West Godavari, seven from Visakhapatnam, six each from Guntur and Kadapa, four each from Prakasam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and three from Krishna district. So far, a total of 2,650 deaths have been reported in the state.

88 deaths, 8,012 new COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh

Indian and Australian artists came together on the occasion of India's 74th Independence day to come up with a joint composition called Sur Sagar--The confluence of music. It was conceptualised by Tabla Maestro - Pandit Yogesh Samsi from India and eminent percussionist - Chris Fields from Australia in association with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center, Consulate General of India, Sydney.

The 11 minutes 51-second confluence of music saw three&nbsp;Indian and three&nbsp;Australian artists. On the Indian side, it was &nbsp;Pandit Rakesh chaurasia who is known as the flute icon of India, Pandit Purbayan Chatterjee known as country's finest Sitar player and belongs to Senia Maihar Gharana, and Pandit Yogesh Samsi famous for his solo performances. Samsi has been trained by Legendary Ustad Allah Rakha.

Yogesh Shamsi speaking to WION said, "We have all come together in one voice in celebration of India's independence and basically to convey the message of love and brotherhood, the whole vibe"

Rakesh chaurasia added, "Music has its own language and no barriers and it can reach any corner of the world. Honoured, proud to be part of this project"

On the Australian side, it is its Chris Fields who is a 3rd generation drummer, Michael Galeazzi who has over 2 decades of National and international touring and Stuart Vandergraaff, a saxophone specialist and proficient on nay (Arabic flute) family, Clarinet and other woodwinds.

Chris Fields speaking to WION from Australia said,"In this very difficult time for the world, the fact we were able to come together, it is testament to the universal language of music."

Michael lauding Indian music said,"Indian musicians are masterful at portraying melody, putting note..its much more sophisticated"

The collaboration was a virtual one given the fact COVID has restricted movement. Asked about this virtual collaboration Stuart said," This new normal is opening up collaboration, the audience is getting broadening...in recent performances, I had audiences in India, Australia, Toronto "

The new composition is inspired by Raag Desh – a traditional Hindustani Raag and known for its signature pentatonic movement of notes --swar. Raag Desh has ornamented various songs from India, including the national song of India - Vande Mataram.

Indian and Australian artists came together on the occasion of India's 74th Independence day to come up with a joint composition called Sur Sagar--The confluence of music.

Indian and Australian artists came together on the occasion of India's 74th Independence day to come up with a joint composition called Sur Sagar--The confluence of music. It was conceptualised by Tabla Maestro - Pandit Yogesh Samsi from India and eminent percussionist - Chris Fields from Australia in association with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center, Consulate General of India, Sydney. The 11 minutes 51-second confluence of music saw three Indian and three Australian artists. On the Indian side, it was Pandit Rakesh chaurasia who is known as the flute icon of India, Pandit Purbayan Chatterjee known as country's finest Sitar player and belongs to Senia Maihar Gharana, and Pandit Yogesh Samsi famous for his solo performances. Samsi has been trained by Legendary Ustad Allah Rakha. Yogesh Shamsi speaking to WION said, "We have all come together in one voice in celebration of India's independence and basically to convey the message of love and brotherhood, the whole vibe" Rakesh chaurasia added, "Music has its own language and no barriers and it can reach any corner of the world. Honoured, proud to be part of this project" On the Australian side, it is its Chris Fields who is a 3rd generation drummer, Michael Galeazzi who has over 2 decades of National and international touring and Stuart Vandergraaff, a saxophone specialist and proficient on nay (Arabic flute) family, Clarinet and other woodwinds. Chris Fields speaking to WION from Australia said,"In this very difficult time for the world, the fact we were able to come together, it is testament to the universal language of music." Michael lauding Indian music said,"Indian musicians are masterful at portraying melody, putting note..its much more sophisticated" The collaboration was a virtual one given the fact COVID has restricted movement. Asked about this virtual collaboration Stuart said," This new normal is opening up collaboration, the audience is getting broadening...in recent performances, I had audiences in India, Australia, Toronto " The new composition is inspired by Raag Desh – a traditional Hindustani Raag and known for its signature pentatonic movement of notes --swar. Raag Desh has ornamented various songs from India, including the national song of India - Vande Mataram.

Indian, Australian artists come together on India's Independence Day for joint composition

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners.&nbsp;New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. 
&nbsp; 
India may have had an indirect role to play.&nbsp;In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine.

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another.

In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine,&nbsp;diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause.

It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

At the same time&nbsp;it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the&nbsp;stage with Hafiz Saeed.

India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations.&nbsp;New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region.

At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia,&nbsp;they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India&nbsp;as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners.

Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi&nbsp;given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. India may have had an indirect role to play. In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine. The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another. In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine, diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause. It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital. At the same time it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed. India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations. New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region. At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia, they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners. Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

How India benefits from Israel-UAE peace deal

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

Speaking to a Russian TV channel, Envoy Venkatesh Varma said, "We have always wanted good relations with China. Unfortunately, this year, China has attempted to change the status quo on the ground in a manner that gives a unilateral advantage to China. We have said that we are open to dialogue. But, we are also firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Ties between New Delhi and Beijing suffered its most serious blow in decades after the Galwan incident of June 15 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers and China also suffered casualty but never came with a figure.

Envoy explained that while India wants normal relations with China, normalization can happen only once there is "full disengagement and de-escalation on the border, and peace and tranquillity on the border areas have been restored". He also said the disengagement process has "not yet completed, but through dialogue, we hope to resolve these issues."

On the ban on Chinese apps, the envoy said India expects "these companies to follow the rules and regulations of India, especially with regard to digital security and privacy of individual information."

The journalist also asked when can Russians go back to Goa, to which the envoy said, "Main difficulty now is the lack of international flights...But we look forward to welcoming them with double warmth next year in the next tourist season".

Goa has been a popular destination for Russian tourist.&nbsp;

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh.

Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that China wanted to get "unilateral advantage" on the ground and that is why engaged in clashes at the Line of actual LAC in Eastern Ladakh. Speaking to a Russian TV channel, Envoy Venkatesh Varma said, "We have always wanted good relations with China. Unfortunately, this year, China has attempted to change the status quo on the ground in a manner that gives a unilateral advantage to China. We have said that we are open to dialogue. But, we are also firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity." Ties between New Delhi and Beijing suffered its most serious blow in decades after the Galwan incident of June 15 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers and China also suffered casualty but never came with a figure. Envoy explained that while India wants normal relations with China, normalization can happen only once there is "full disengagement and de-escalation on the border, and peace and tranquillity on the border areas have been restored". He also said the disengagement process has "not yet completed, but through dialogue, we hope to resolve these issues." On the ban on Chinese apps, the envoy said India expects "these companies to follow the rules and regulations of India, especially with regard to digital security and privacy of individual information." The journalist also asked when can Russians go back to Goa, to which the envoy said, "Main difficulty now is the lack of international flights...But we look forward to welcoming them with double warmth next year in the next tourist season". Goa has been a popular destination for Russian tourist.

China wanted to get unilateral advantage on ground, says Indian envoy to Russia

India has said it has received interest from Bhutan to be part of COVID 19 trials. Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "The government of India has received information related to Bhutan's interest in being part of the COVID Trails. We understand that private companies who have developed the vaccines will be conducting trials in keeping with the established protocols for such procedures"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beirut-blast-india-sends-58-mt-relief-to-lebanon-320522" hreflang="en">Beirut blast: India sends 58 MT relief to Lebanon</a>

The Indian envoy said this in an interview to Bhutanese newspaper Kuensel on the eve of India’s 74th Independence Day.

Three vaccines are being developed in India-- Oxford-Serum institute with phase 3 trial taking place, Bharat Biotech-ICMR vaccine with phase 1, 2 underway and Zydus Cadila whose phase 2 is underway.

Bhutan went into lockdown a few days ago after a COVID-19 case emerged in the country.&nbsp;

The Indian envoy also assured that in "solidarity" with the Bhutanese government. New Delhi will "ensure uninterrupted movement of essential as well as non-essential commodities to Bhutan" amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and "India will always stand alongside Bhutan".

India has said it has received interest from Bhutan to be part of COVID 19 trials. Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "The government of India has received information related to Bhutan's interest in being part of the COVID Trails.

India has said it has received interest from Bhutan to be part of COVID 19 trials. Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "The government of India has received information related to Bhutan's interest in being part of the COVID Trails. We understand that private companies who have developed the vaccines will be conducting trials in keeping with the established protocols for such procedures" Also read: Beirut blast: India sends 58 MT relief to Lebanon The Indian envoy said this in an interview to Bhutanese newspaper Kuensel on the eve of India’s 74th Independence Day. Three vaccines are being developed in India-- Oxford-Serum institute with phase 3 trial taking place, Bharat Biotech-ICMR vaccine with phase 1, 2 underway and Zydus Cadila whose phase 2 is underway. Bhutan went into lockdown a few days ago after a COVID-19 case emerged in the country. The Indian envoy also assured that in "solidarity" with the Bhutanese government. New Delhi will "ensure uninterrupted movement of essential as well as non-essential commodities to Bhutan" amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and "India will always stand alongside Bhutan".

Bhutan interested to be part of India's COVID-19 trials

In an indirect reference to Pakistan, India has said "conflict actors" are trying to exploit the current uncertainty created due to COVID-19 pandemic to indulge misinformation, terrorist attacks.&nbsp;

In a statement at the united nations security council (UNSC), India said, " Some conflict actors are exploiting the current climate of uncertainty to press their agendas, including through spread of misinformation to foment discord and violence and even sponsor opportunistic terrorist attacks."

Highlighting how COVID-19 Pandemic has "caused global disruption" on a "scale that has not been experienced before by this generation", the statement said, "the pandemic is still raging, and its implications, though hard to foretell in exact terms, is certain to be profound and multidimensional."

New Delhi said, "pandemics can exacerbate the humanitarian consequences of any conflict situation....maintenance of peace and security, including UN peacekeeping operations"

The UN Secretary-General in a meeting of Security Council on 9 April had pointed out how the pandemic can lead to erosion of trust in public institutions, a rise in societal tensions etc.&nbsp;

India suggested the use of "digital solutions" to bring communities closer together especially in sharing life-saving information on how to survive the pandemic and it is "important for international players to look at a model of international development and humanitarian action which will strengthen not just the national response to COVID-19 but also promote essential pillars of peacebuilding." 
&nbsp;

In an indirect reference to Pakistan, India has said "conflict actors" are trying to exploit the current uncertainty created due to COVID-19 pandemic to indulge misinformation, terrorist attacks.

In an indirect reference to Pakistan, India has said "conflict actors" are trying to exploit the current uncertainty created due to COVID-19 pandemic to indulge misinformation, terrorist attacks. In a statement at the united nations security council (UNSC), India said, " Some conflict actors are exploiting the current climate of uncertainty to press their agendas, including through spread of misinformation to foment discord and violence and even sponsor opportunistic terrorist attacks." Highlighting how COVID-19 Pandemic has "caused global disruption" on a "scale that has not been experienced before by this generation", the statement said, "the pandemic is still raging, and its implications, though hard to foretell in exact terms, is certain to be profound and multidimensional." New Delhi said, "pandemics can exacerbate the humanitarian consequences of any conflict situation....maintenance of peace and security, including UN peacekeeping operations" The UN Secretary-General in a meeting of Security Council on 9 April had pointed out how the pandemic can lead to erosion of trust in public institutions, a rise in societal tensions etc. India suggested the use of "digital solutions" to bring communities closer together especially in sharing life-saving information on how to survive the pandemic and it is "important for international players to look at a model of international development and humanitarian action which will strengthen not just the national response to COVID-19 but also promote essential pillars of peacebuilding."

'Conflict actors' exploiting COVID-19 for misinformation, terror attacks, says India at UNSC

India on Tuesday expressed interest in getting Russian COVID vaccine Sputnik V according to a statement. The statement on the website dedicated to the "world's first registered Covid-19 vaccine" lists out India along with 20 other countries that have shown interest in getting the vaccine.

The statement says," At least 20 countries had expressed interest in obtaining the Sputnik V, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Philippines, Brazil, Mexico and India."

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday announced his country has come out with vaccine against COVID, with one dose being given to his daughters.&nbsp;

Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF, Russia's Sovereign wealth fund is financing the production of the vaccine and sees "strong global interest in the vaccine", according to the statement.&nbsp;

The statement explained RDIF plans to "conduct Phase 3 clinical trials in different countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Brazil, India and Philippines" and "start mass production in other countries in partnership with local sovereign wealth funds, including India, South Korea and Brazil, as well as, in Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Cuba."

Mass production of the vaccine is expected to start in September 2020. Future plans include ramping up the vaccine production to 200 million doses by the end of 2020 including 30 million doses in Russia.

India on Tuesday expressed interest in getting Russian COVID vaccine Sputnik V according to a statement. The statement on the website dedicated to the "world's first registered Covid-19 vaccine" lists out India along with 20 other countries that have shown interest in getting the vaccine.

India on Tuesday expressed interest in getting Russian COVID vaccine Sputnik V according to a statement. The statement on the website dedicated to the "world's first registered Covid-19 vaccine" lists out India along with 20 other countries that have shown interest in getting the vaccine. The statement says," At least 20 countries had expressed interest in obtaining the Sputnik V, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Philippines, Brazil, Mexico and India." Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday announced his country has come out with vaccine against COVID, with one dose being given to his daughters. Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF, Russia's Sovereign wealth fund is financing the production of the vaccine and sees "strong global interest in the vaccine", according to the statement. The statement explained RDIF plans to "conduct Phase 3 clinical trials in different countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Brazil, India and Philippines" and "start mass production in other countries in partnership with local sovereign wealth funds, including India, South Korea and Brazil, as well as, in Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Cuba." Mass production of the vaccine is expected to start in September 2020. Future plans include ramping up the vaccine production to 200 million doses by the end of 2020 including 30 million doses in Russia.

Russian COVID-19 vaccine: New Delhi expresses interest as Moscow scouts for mass production in India

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.&nbsp;

India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009.

The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative (DPR),&nbsp;both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be&nbsp;Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra.&nbsp;

Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic &amp; Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing.

With a strong Beijing connection, four&nbsp;diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018.&nbsp;

India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, &nbsp;Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police.

India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries.&nbsp;

It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021. India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009. The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR), both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be Deputy Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra. Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic & Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing. With a strong Beijing connection, four diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018. India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police. India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries. It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India to send 4 diplomats to New York as it takes seat at UNSC high table

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The 2,312-kilometre-long submarine optical fibre cable from Chennai to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, laid at a cost of Rs 1,224 crore, will provide "better and cheaper connectivity", Modi&nbsp;said.

"There is a proposal to build a transhipment port at Great Nicobar at an estimated expenditure of about Rs 10,000 crore. Large ships can dock once this port is ready," he said at the inauguration ceremony held through video link.

The dedicated container transshipment terminal at the strategic port locale in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands along the Bay of Bengal coastline offers two geographical advantages -- proximity to the busy east-west international shipping route that can facilitate shorter transits and greater economies of scale, and deep natural water depths that can accommodate the latest generation of mega-ships.

The transshipment port would enable big ships to anchor and raise India's share in maritime trade as well as create new job opportunities, he said.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration had last year floated an expression of interest for the container transshipment terminal with the Free Trade Warehousing Zone in South Bay, Great Nicobar Island to provide Indian shippers an alternative to Colombo, Singapore and Port Klang (Malaysia) transshipment ports.

The Prime Minister said Andaman &amp; Nicobar will be developed as a hub of port-led development as it is at a competitive distance from many ports of the world.

As India looks to establish itself as an important player in global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen the network of waterways and ports, he said adding legal bottlenecks in the development of port infrastructure are also being removed continuously.

The government's focus, he said, is also on promoting ease of business and simplifying maritime logistics.

He referred to in-principal approval being given for building a deep draft greenfield seaport on the west coast and work starting on a deep draft inner harbour on the east coast.

While blue economy like fisheries, aquaculture, and seaweed farming will accelerate the development of Andaman and Nicobar, the government is making efforts to have more facilities at the Islands.

The undersea cable will help boost tourism as it will provide better mobile and internet connectivity on the Islands, he said.

"From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today," Modi said adding it will boost 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, telehealth, e-governance services and tourism on the Islands.

Besides Port Blair, it will connect other islands namely Swaraj Dweep (Havlock), Long Island, Rangat, Little Andaman, Kamorta, Car Nicobar, and Greater Nicobar.

According to official data, an internet speed of 400 gigabytes (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands, it will be 200 Gb per second.

Undersea cable linking the Andaman and Nocobar Islands with Chennai was laid before time despite the difficult situation, Modi said.

The work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months.

Besides mobile and internet connectivity, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened, he said referring to two big bridges and widening of National Highway No.4 being undertaken to improve road connectivity between North and Middle Andaman.

He said the Port Blair Airport is being enhanced to handle a capacity of 1,200 passengers. Along with this, the airports are ready for operations in Diglipur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell-Bay.

Seaplane services will start once water aerodrome infrastructure including passenger terminal and floating jetty is ready at Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island, he said adding four ships being built at Kochi Shipyard shall be delivered soon to improve the water connectivity between the islands and the mainland.

The Prime Minister said that when India is moving forward with the resolve of self-sufficiency and is establishing itself as an important player in the global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen our network of waterways and our ports.

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

India is considering investing Rs 10,000 crore for building a transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal to provide shippers with an alternative to similar ports in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he inaugurated the first undersea optical fibre project to provide high-speed internet to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The 2,312-kilometre-long submarine optical fibre cable from Chennai to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, laid at a cost of Rs 1,224 crore, will provide "better and cheaper connectivity", Modi said. "There is a proposal to build a transhipment port at Great Nicobar at an estimated expenditure of about Rs 10,000 crore. Large ships can dock once this port is ready," he said at the inauguration ceremony held through video link. The dedicated container transshipment terminal at the strategic port locale in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands along the Bay of Bengal coastline offers two geographical advantages -- proximity to the busy east-west international shipping route that can facilitate shorter transits and greater economies of scale, and deep natural water depths that can accommodate the latest generation of mega-ships. The transshipment port would enable big ships to anchor and raise India's share in maritime trade as well as create new job opportunities, he said. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration had last year floated an expression of interest for the container transshipment terminal with the Free Trade Warehousing Zone in South Bay, Great Nicobar Island to provide Indian shippers an alternative to Colombo, Singapore and Port Klang (Malaysia) transshipment ports. The Prime Minister said Andaman & Nicobar will be developed as a hub of port-led development as it is at a competitive distance from many ports of the world. As India looks to establish itself as an important player in global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen the network of waterways and ports, he said adding legal bottlenecks in the development of port infrastructure are also being removed continuously. The government's focus, he said, is also on promoting ease of business and simplifying maritime logistics. He referred to in-principal approval being given for building a deep draft greenfield seaport on the west coast and work starting on a deep draft inner harbour on the east coast. While blue economy like fisheries, aquaculture, and seaweed farming will accelerate the development of Andaman and Nicobar, the government is making efforts to have more facilities at the Islands. The undersea cable will help boost tourism as it will provide better mobile and internet connectivity on the Islands, he said. "From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today," Modi said adding it will boost 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, telehealth, e-governance services and tourism on the Islands. Besides Port Blair, it will connect other islands namely Swaraj Dweep (Havlock), Long Island, Rangat, Little Andaman, Kamorta, Car Nicobar, and Greater Nicobar. According to official data, an internet speed of 400 gigabytes (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands, it will be 200 Gb per second. Undersea cable linking the Andaman and Nocobar Islands with Chennai was laid before time despite the difficult situation, Modi said. The work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months. Besides mobile and internet connectivity, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened, he said referring to two big bridges and widening of National Highway No.4 being undertaken to improve road connectivity between North and Middle Andaman. He said the Port Blair Airport is being enhanced to handle a capacity of 1,200 passengers. Along with this, the airports are ready for operations in Diglipur, Car Nicobar, and Campbell-Bay. Seaplane services will start once water aerodrome infrastructure including passenger terminal and floating jetty is ready at Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island, he said adding four ships being built at Kochi Shipyard shall be delivered soon to improve the water connectivity between the islands and the mainland. The Prime Minister said that when India is moving forward with the resolve of self-sufficiency and is establishing itself as an important player in the global supply and value chain, it is very important to strengthen our network of waterways and our ports.

India plans Rs 10,000 crore transhipment port at Great Nicobar Island: PM Modi

Bangladesh's&nbsp;Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to&nbsp;construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. The anniversary&nbsp;coincided with the 50th anniversary of the country's independence.

“We are constructing the monument coinciding with the 50th anniversary of our independence” crucially backed by India, a ministry spokesman quoted Haque as saying.

The statement was made when the&nbsp;Indian High Commisisoner Riva Ganguly paid a farewell visit to Haque. Both the leaders assured he media that the two countries are friendly neighbours and friends.

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“Some people are out to spread misleading information purposely to worsen the relations between the two next-door neighbours but the Bangladesh-India ties are not so fragile,” Ganguly said.

She also urged the Bangladesh government to translate the books based on Liberation War to Hindi, and expressed willingness to participate in Bangladesh's golden jubilee of their independence in 2021.

An official familiar with the monument project said the government has selected 3.5 acres of land at frontier Ashuganj of Brahmanbaia district bordering Agartala.

“The site which has been selected has historic significance . . . Indian army fought Pakistanis some decisive wars in 1971 along with our freedom fighters in Ashuganj,” the official said.

The monument's construction will begin this year and will be completed in the next two years, the minister claimed.

(With inputs from PTI)

Bangladesh's Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan.

Bangladesh's Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. The anniversary coincided with the 50th anniversary of the country's independence. “We are constructing the monument coinciding with the 50th anniversary of our independence” crucially backed by India, a ministry spokesman quoted Haque as saying. The statement was made when the Indian High Commisisoner Riva Ganguly paid a farewell visit to Haque. Both the leaders assured he media that the two countries are friendly neighbours and friends. × “Some people are out to spread misleading information purposely to worsen the relations between the two next-door neighbours but the Bangladesh-India ties are not so fragile,” Ganguly said. She also urged the Bangladesh government to translate the books based on Liberation War to Hindi, and expressed willingness to participate in Bangladesh's golden jubilee of their independence in 2021. An official familiar with the monument project said the government has selected 3.5 acres of land at frontier Ashuganj of Brahmanbaia district bordering Agartala. “The site which has been selected has historic significance . . . Indian army fought Pakistanis some decisive wars in 1971 along with our freedom fighters in Ashuganj,” the official said. The monument's construction will begin this year and will be completed in the next two years, the minister claimed. (With inputs from PTI)

Bangladesh to build monument for Indian soldiers martyred in 1971 Liberation War

The Indian government will extend assistance to Lebanon after getting an assessment of the damage from the government there. The massive blast caused by highly volatile ammonium nitrate ripped through country's capital Beirut earlier this week killing over 150 people and injuring over 5,000.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in response to a question said, "We have sought an assessment of the extend of damage from the Lebanese govt and based on that we will decide the kind of assistance, the nature of assistance that we will extend to them. "

On any Indians impacted by the blast, Shrivastava said, "no reported casualties among the Indian causality. 5 minor injuries. Our embassies are in touch with Indian community associations and extending all necessary assistance."

There are nearly 9,000 Indian nationals in Lebanon according to MEA with a majority of them employed as workers in companies, agricultural farms.

Indian envoy to Lebanon Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan speaking to WION on the day of the blast said, "We are in touch with the Indian community. We have advised them to remain calm. No injuries reported among the Indian community till now."

Indian mission has also shared its Help Line Numbers with the Indian Community.

The Indian government will extend assistance to Lebanon after getting an assessment of the damage from the government there. The massive blast caused by highly volatile ammonium nitrate ripped through country's capital Beirut earlier this week killing over 150 people and injuring over 5,000.

The Indian government will extend assistance to Lebanon after getting an assessment of the damage from the government there. The massive blast caused by highly volatile ammonium nitrate ripped through country's capital Beirut earlier this week killing over 150 people and injuring over 5,000. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in response to a question said, "We have sought an assessment of the extend of damage from the Lebanese govt and based on that we will decide the kind of assistance, the nature of assistance that we will extend to them. " On any Indians impacted by the blast, Shrivastava said, "no reported casualties among the Indian causality. 5 minor injuries. Our embassies are in touch with Indian community associations and extending all necessary assistance." There are nearly 9,000 Indian nationals in Lebanon according to MEA with a majority of them employed as workers in companies, agricultural farms. Indian envoy to Lebanon Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan speaking to WION on the day of the blast said, "We are in touch with the Indian community. We have advised them to remain calm. No injuries reported among the Indian community till now." Indian mission has also shared its Help Line Numbers with the Indian Community.

India to extend assistance to Lebanon after getting assessment from Beirut

Turkey is looking for ways to expand its soft power in India and is willing to spend money on it.

Reportedly, Turkey has operating different fronts in India. Some of them have direct likes to the Turkish president and his family.

They are funding educational institutes and offering “lucrative scholarships” to lure Indians.

Indian intelligence agencies have now flagged this up because the money is going towards targets of Pakistani proxies.

A report claims that turkey is running scholarships and exchange programs for Indian Kashmiri and Muslim students. They are facilitated by state-sponsored NGOs.

And once the students land in turkey, they are approached by Pakistani proxies.

Reportedly, some individuals and groups have been identified.

Some of them have links with Pakistan’s ISI. They have been brought in by entities in Turkey. People who are believed to have strong links to Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In this entire affair --- the name of one outfit stands out. The Turkey youth foundation or T.U.G.V.A.

It's run by the Turkish president’s son Bilal. Allegedly, the T.U.G.V.A. has developed strong links in India. It has established contact with Islamic outfits.

Like the student wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami. The student Islamic organisation.

Turkey has been using education to make deep in-roads around the world. As of last year -- one Turkish government entity was educating 30,000 students in 34 countries.

It is the Maarif Foundation, the international education juggernaut of Turkey. It's completely funded by the government.

So far, the Maarif Foundation is active in 43 countries and is catering to almost 40,000 students.

Some claim, that schools run by Maarif Foundation have a radical Islamist curriculum.

That promotes the radicalization of youth and extremism which is why Germany is wary of Turkey’s moves.

In January, German lawmakers had raised red-flags over Turkey’s decision to open three schools in Germany.

These schools are supposed to come up in Berlin, Cologne and Frankfurt which are three major German cities.

With large populations of Turkish citizens --- as well as Germans of Turkish descent.

Why are german lawmakers worried?

One lawmaker believes Turkish schools are “driving the islamization of German education system”.

That is one side of the political spectrum.

Another side --- calls out Erdogan for undermining democratic values in Turkey.

A lawmaker of the left party said: “Erdogan polarizes and divides our society. His schools are poisonous for integration and democracy”.

Here is how Germany is dealing with Turkish schools. Indian policymakers should listen carefully to this.

Earlier this year, they began formulating a legal framework. That could dictate the rules for such schools.

France went one step ahead. Last year, Erdogan wanted to open Turkish schools in France. The move was denounced by the Macron government.

They saw it as an attempt to bolster influence and hard-line Islam among the Turkish population in France.

According to a report, Erdogan’s plans are now on hold.

As India gets ready to welcome foreign universities --- it must step up its defences against ideological education by Turkey and China.

Turkey is looking for ways to expand its soft power in India and is willing to spend money on it. Reportedly, Turkey has operating different fronts in India. Some of them have direct likes to the Turkish president and his family.

Turkey is looking for ways to expand its soft power in India and is willing to spend money on it. Reportedly, Turkey has operating different fronts in India. Some of them have direct likes to the Turkish president and his family. They are funding educational institutes and offering “lucrative scholarships” to lure Indians. Indian intelligence agencies have now flagged this up because the money is going towards targets of Pakistani proxies. A report claims that turkey is running scholarships and exchange programs for Indian Kashmiri and Muslim students. They are facilitated by state-sponsored NGOs. And once the students land in turkey, they are approached by Pakistani proxies. Reportedly, some individuals and groups have been identified. Some of them have links with Pakistan’s ISI. They have been brought in by entities in Turkey. People who are believed to have strong links to Recep Tayyip Erdogan. In this entire affair --- the name of one outfit stands out. The Turkey youth foundation or T.U.G.V.A. It's run by the Turkish president’s son Bilal. Allegedly, the T.U.G.V.A. has developed strong links in India. It has established contact with Islamic outfits. Like the student wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami. The student Islamic organisation. Turkey has been using education to make deep in-roads around the world. As of last year -- one Turkish government entity was educating 30,000 students in 34 countries. It is the Maarif Foundation, the international education juggernaut of Turkey. It's completely funded by the government. So far, the Maarif Foundation is active in 43 countries and is catering to almost 40,000 students. Some claim, that schools run by Maarif Foundation have a radical Islamist curriculum. That promotes the radicalization of youth and extremism which is why Germany is wary of Turkey’s moves. In January, German lawmakers had raised red-flags over Turkey’s decision to open three schools in Germany. These schools are supposed to come up in Berlin, Cologne and Frankfurt which are three major German cities. With large populations of Turkish citizens --- as well as Germans of Turkish descent. Why are german lawmakers worried? One lawmaker believes Turkish schools are “driving the islamization of German education system”. That is one side of the political spectrum. Another side --- calls out Erdogan for undermining democratic values in Turkey. A lawmaker of the left party said: “Erdogan polarizes and divides our society. His schools are poisonous for integration and democracy”. Here is how Germany is dealing with Turkish schools. Indian policymakers should listen carefully to this. Earlier this year, they began formulating a legal framework. That could dictate the rules for such schools. France went one step ahead. Last year, Erdogan wanted to open Turkish schools in France. The move was denounced by the Macron government. They saw it as an attempt to bolster influence and hard-line Islam among the Turkish population in France. According to a report, Erdogan’s plans are now on hold. As India gets ready to welcome foreign universities --- it must step up its defences against ideological education by Turkey and China.

What are China and Turkey doing in Indian campuses?

Earlier this week, the Indian government put Chinese institutes under a review that outraged Beijing. Two things are being reviewed. First, the local chapters of Confucius institutes in India.

Earlier this week, the Indian government put Chinese institutes under a review that outraged Beijing. Two things are being reviewed. First, the local chapters of Confucius institutes in India. Second, agreements between Indian and Chinese institutes. According to China, India is politicizing Chinese institutes. They feel the review is unfair. But, here is why it's necessary. China’s meddling in education is seen as a threat to academic freedom abroad. A report from human rights watch came out last year. The report calls Confucius institutes as extensions of the Chinese government. Where censorship is rampant and hiring of teachers is based on political loyalty. China has opened up several of these institutes abroad. According to human rights watch, many teachers feel uncomfortable with the presence of such schools on their campus. They feel their teaching could be compromised by them. At certain places --- the Chinese influence is quite apparent. In 2019, Victoria University cancelled the screening of a documentary critical of Confucius institutes after the university’s Confucius institute complained. The screening was cancelled because it was critical of Chinese institutes. According to reports, India has three such institutes. All of them are essentially extensions of the Chinese government. Reportedly, Indian intelligence agencies have raised security concerned around Chinese institutes. China says its schools promote Chinese language teaching and people-to-people contacts. But, there are three “Ts” that teachers can’t talk about. Tibet Taiwan Tiananmen At any Chinese schools in the world, these three subjects are considered off-limits. Allegedly, Chinese schools have often put pressure on their host universities abroad. They proactively pressurize host universities to silence anything deemed controversial by Beijing. In 2014, references of Taiwan were removed from a conference programme in Portugal. Pages were torn from the handbook. In 2018, China played censor at a conference in the United States too. Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian, a journalist, was invited to speak at the savannah state university. On her bio, Allen had mentioned she had reported from Taiwan. But, when the event materials were printed --- the reference to Taiwan was removed. Because the event sponsor was a Chinese institute. China funds schools in the name of culture and people-to-people ties. Then, it imposes censorship on campus. The entire operation is orchestrated from Beijing by the communist party. Chinese institutes are run by the Hanban. This is a Chinese body. That’s part of China’s ministry of education. The Hanban is dominated by officials of the communist party. The executive council of the Hanban has 12 representatives from China’s top state agencies. This includes the ministry of foreign affairs as well as the state press and publishing administration. The director-general of Hanban is part of China’s state council. The highest organ of state power in China. By 2017, these institutes had a budget of 314 million dollars. Reportedly, Chinese institutes are now present in at least 548 universities. In almost 1,200 schools and across 154 countries now. More than one million students study in these institutes and over 46,000 teachers work there. As of last year, China planned to have one thousand such institutes.

Indian government to review China's Confucius institutes

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-covid-19-deaths-rise-for-fourth-week-new-cases-drop-5-318003">Also read|&nbsp;US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5%</a>

"I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday.

As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said.

"Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question.

"And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-52050-cases-in-a-single-day-death-toll-nears-40000-318001">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000</a>

The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. 
The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus.

"No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said.

Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-against-hiring-h1b-visa-holders-for-federal-contracts-318023">Also read|&nbsp;Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts</a>

"Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop.

"As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said.

Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. 
Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said.

"To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said.

It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said.

"As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said.

The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted.

"We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said.

"In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them.

"At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections.

President Donald Trump has said that as compared to big countries, America is doing "very well" in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, while India is having a "tremendous problem" battling the disease and China is witnessing a "massive flare up" in infections. India's COVID-19 tally increased to 18,55,745 on Tuesday with 52,050 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. China on Tuesday reported 36 new cases across the country, down from 43 the previous day. The country's COVID-19 cases crossed the 100-mark on July 29, for the first time in over three months, sparking the fear of a rebound. Also read| US COVID-19 deaths rise for fourth week, new cases drop 5% "I think we're doing very well. I think that we have done as well as any nation. If you really look, if you take a look at what's going on, especially now with all these flare ups and nations that they were talking about," Trump told reporters at a news conference here on Monday. As such, compared to larger countries, the US is doing much better in the fight against the coronavirus, he said. "Don't forget, we're much bigger than--other than India and China. China is having a massive flare up right now. India has a tremendous problem. Other countries have problems," he said in response to a question. "And I noticed that in the news, in the evening news, I never read about that. In any news, I don't read about the other countries. You're starting to see that other countries are having very big flare ups, countries that thought they were over it, like we thought we might be over in Florida, and then all of a sudden it comes back. They do come back," he said. Also read| COVID 19: India records 52,050 cases in a single day; death toll nears 40,000 The US is the worst-hit country from the pandemic with over 4.7 million cases and more than 155,000 deaths. The US, Trump said, has tested over 60 million people for coronavirus. "No other country is even close to that. We've tested 60 million people -in many cases about 50 percent, now rapid fire, meaning five to 15 to 20-minute tests where you get the results almost immediately. Nobody has anything like that. Nobody. And I think we're just doing very well," he said. Trump said that the US is beginning to see evidence of significant progress. Nationwide, the number of positive cases has declined by nearly six percent from the week before, and the positive test rate has also dropped from 8.7 per cent to 8 per cent over that same period of time. Also read| Trump signs executive order against hiring H1B visa holders for federal contracts "Hotspots across the South and West; we have seen slow improvements from their recent weekly peaks," he said, adding that Arizona's weekly case counts have dropped 37 per cent that is a tremendous drop and the governor and the state have done a fantastic job down 37 per cent, Texas down 18.7 per cent, and Florida 21.2 per cent drop. "As we begin to contain the virus in these states, we must focus on new flare ups in the states where the case numbers have risen, including Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and I think you will find that they are soon going to be very much under control," he said. Meanwhile, 18 states continue to have very low case numbers and low test positivity rates under five per cent, including New Jersey, New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland and Massachusetts. Even in these states, however, where the virus is under control and at a very low number, Americans should continue to be vigilant, be careful in order to prevent the new hotspots from opening up, he said. "To that end, I urge all Americans to continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear a mask when you cannot avoid crowded places and to protect the elderly very, very important, protect the elderly. It is much different....," Trump said. It is important for all Americans to recognise that a permanent lockdown is not a viable path towards producing the results that one wants or certainly not a viable path forward and would ultimately inflict more harm than it would prevent, he said. "As we are seeing in foreign countries around the world where cases are once again surging, you have many places where we thought they were under control doing a great job, and they are doing a great job, but this is a very tough invisible enemy. Lockdowns do not prevent infection in the future. They just don't. It comes back many times...," he said. The purpose of a lockdown is to buy time to build capacity in hospitals, learn more about the disease and develop effective treatments, he asserted. "We are doing very well with the vaccines and the therapeutic. Countries, where there have been very significant flare ups over the last short period of time, are Spain, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and also, as you probably heard in Hong Kong, they have had some very serious flare ups. Japan has gone a lot of--six-fold, six-fold flareup, that's a lot, but they will get it under control," he said. "In our current phase, we must focus on protecting those at highest risk while allowing younger and healthier Americans to resume work and school with careful precautions. Ideally, we want to open those schools. We want to open them. "At the same time, we are placing an emphasis on continuing to drive down the mortality rate with improved care, treatment, and medical interventions building a bridge to the introduction of a vaccine. The vaccines are coming along incredibly well," Trump said.

US doing 'very well' against COVID-19, India has a 'tremendous problem': Trump

China's Exim bank has asked the Maldives to repay $10 million loan. It is a part of the loan given to former president Yameen's ally- Sun Ahmed Shyam.

The $127 million loan was given in sovereign guarantee and now china is asking the Maldives to cough up an unpaid instalment. The timing couldn't be worse. The Wuhan virus has hit the economy. The tourism sector has come to standstill.

So why is China asking for money now?

It is called blackmail. China is punishing the Maldives for its proximity to India.

The former president of this island country Abdullah Yameen was China's puppet. He ramped up infrastructure projects with Chinese funds.&nbsp;

And in the process, Yameen had cast aside democracy and the rule of law. Take a look at the inflow of money.

China invested 830 million dollars into the island country's airport. China built a 2-km bridge to link the airport island to the male.

It also built a 25-storey apartment complex and hospital in the Maldives. Beijing sent 306,000 tourists to the Maldives in the year 2018

Talk about china's debt-trap diplomacy...

Here's a question. Why the Maldives?

Because it holds strategic importance for Beijing. The Maldives has key shipping lanes.

It is located along china's shipping route to the middle east.

During a visit to the Maldives in 2014, Chinese president Xi Jinping had announced that the Maldives could become a part of the maritime silk road.

In other words, the belt and road initiative.

In August 2018, 3 Chinese naval ships docked in Male.

The Maldives racked up an estimated 1.3 billion dollars of debt to China.

This is more than a quarter of the Maldives' GDP.

The estimates are conflicting.

In 2018, former president Mohamed Nasheed said that China has handed over an invoice of 3.2 billion dollars.

"It was an invoice. It just had a figure, $3.2 billion. It was shocking," said Nasheed. "It wasn’t just a conversation, it was a written note handed over, it was clear, you owe us this much."

In short, China's plan was on track, until the Solih govt took over in September 2018.

Currently, Maldives owes billions of dollars to China.

What happens if it does not repay $10 million to china's Exim bank?

It could impact the credibility of the Maldives.

What happens if Male pays?

It could impact its foreign trade and forex reserves.

India has handed over a cheque of 5.6 million dollars. This is for the implementation of the high-impact grant project. In July, the State Bank of India announced liquidity support of 16.20 million dollars for businesses and deferred loan repayments.

But India may not be able to extend this support to all countries being crushed under Chinese debts.

They can either learn from the Maldives or brace for disaster.

China's Exim bank has asked the Maldives to repay $10 million loan. It is a part of the loan given to former president Yameen's ally- Sun Ahmed Shyam. The $127 million loan was given in sovereign guarantee and now china is asking the Maldives to cough up an unpaid instalment.

China's Exim bank has asked the Maldives to repay $10 million loan. It is a part of the loan given to former president Yameen's ally- Sun Ahmed Shyam. The $127 million loan was given in sovereign guarantee and now china is asking the Maldives to cough up an unpaid instalment. The timing couldn't be worse. The Wuhan virus has hit the economy. The tourism sector has come to standstill. So why is China asking for money now? It is called blackmail. China is punishing the Maldives for its proximity to India. The former president of this island country Abdullah Yameen was China's puppet. He ramped up infrastructure projects with Chinese funds. And in the process, Yameen had cast aside democracy and the rule of law. Take a look at the inflow of money. China invested 830 million dollars into the island country's airport. China built a 2-km bridge to link the airport island to the male. It also built a 25-storey apartment complex and hospital in the Maldives. Beijing sent 306,000 tourists to the Maldives in the year 2018 Talk about china's debt-trap diplomacy... Here's a question. Why the Maldives? Because it holds strategic importance for Beijing. The Maldives has key shipping lanes. It is located along china's shipping route to the middle east. During a visit to the Maldives in 2014, Chinese president Xi Jinping had announced that the Maldives could become a part of the maritime silk road. In other words, the belt and road initiative. In August 2018, 3 Chinese naval ships docked in Male. The Maldives racked up an estimated 1.3 billion dollars of debt to China. This is more than a quarter of the Maldives' GDP. The estimates are conflicting. In 2018, former president Mohamed Nasheed said that China has handed over an invoice of 3.2 billion dollars. "It was an invoice. It just had a figure, $3.2 billion. It was shocking," said Nasheed. "It wasn’t just a conversation, it was a written note handed over, it was clear, you owe us this much." In short, China's plan was on track, until the Solih govt took over in September 2018. Currently, Maldives owes billions of dollars to China. What happens if it does not repay $10 million to china's Exim bank? It could impact the credibility of the Maldives. What happens if Male pays? It could impact its foreign trade and forex reserves. India has handed over a cheque of 5.6 million dollars. This is for the implementation of the high-impact grant project. In July, the State Bank of India announced liquidity support of 16.20 million dollars for businesses and deferred loan repayments. But India may not be able to extend this support to all countries being crushed under Chinese debts. They can either learn from the Maldives or brace for disaster.

Chinese banks asks Maldives to repay $10 million loan

One of the most populous country India reported 52,972 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours on Monday morning.

The Health Ministry reported that the toll of coronavirus cases has reached&nbsp;18,03,696 including 5,79,357 active cases, 1,186,203 cured/discharged/migrated and 38,135 deaths.

On Sunday evening, India's Home Minister Amit Shah also tested COVID-19 positive and has been admitted to a private hospital in Gurugram, a region in Delhi-NCR.

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कोरोना के शुरूआती लक्षण दिखने पर मैंने टेस्ट करवाया और रिपोर्ट पॉजिटिव आई है। मेरी तबीयत ठीक है परन्तु डॉक्टर्स की सलाह पर अस्पताल में भर्ती हो रहा हूँ। मेरा अनुरोध है कि आप में से जो भी लोग गत कुछ दिनों में मेरे संपर्क में आयें हैं, कृपया स्वयं को आइसोलेट कर अपनी जाँच करवाएं।
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1289882101915893764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Karnataka Chief Minister&nbsp;BS Yediyurappa, too, tested positive for coronavirus yesterday. Later, his daughter, too, tested positive on Monday morning.&nbsp;Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit also tested positive on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/union-home-minister-amit-shah-tests-positive-for-covid-19-317679">Also watch:&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who tested positive for COVID-19 along with his son Abhishek, daughter-in-law Aishwarya and grand daughter Araadhya, has now tested negative for the novel coronavirus.

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🙏🏽 my father, thankfully, has tested negative on his latest Covid-19 test and has been discharged from the hospital. He will now be at home and rest. Thank you all for all your prayers and wishes for him. 🙏🏽
— Abhishek Bachchan (@juniorbachchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/juniorbachchan/status/1289882915598295040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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West Bengal&nbsp;recorded 49 fatalities pushing&nbsp;toll to 1,678. The state recorded highest single-day spike of 2,739 new cases, taking&nbsp;tally to 75,516.

Uttar Pradesh reported 3,853 new cases, taking the toll to&nbsp;92,921 and death toll to 1,730 with 53 fatalities reported in last 24 hours.

One of the most populous country India reported 52,972 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours on Monday morning. The Health Ministry reported that the toll of coronavirus cases has reached 18,03,696 including 5,79,357 active cases, 1,186,203 cured/discharged/migrated and 38,135 deaths.

One of the most populous country India reported 52,972 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours on Monday morning. The Health Ministry reported that the toll of coronavirus cases has reached 18,03,696 including 5,79,357 active cases, 1,186,203 cured/discharged/migrated and 38,135 deaths. On Sunday evening, India's Home Minister Amit Shah also tested COVID-19 positive and has been admitted to a private hospital in Gurugram, a region in Delhi-NCR. कोरोना के शुरूआती लक्षण दिखने पर मैंने टेस्ट करवाया और रिपोर्ट पॉजिटिव आई है। मेरी तबीयत ठीक है परन्तु डॉक्टर्स की सलाह पर अस्पताल में भर्ती हो रहा हूँ। मेरा अनुरोध है कि आप में से जो भी लोग गत कुछ दिनों में मेरे संपर्क में आयें हैं, कृपया स्वयं को आइसोलेट कर अपनी जाँच करवाएं। — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 2, 2020 × Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, too, tested positive for coronavirus yesterday. Later, his daughter, too, tested positive on Monday morning. Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit also tested positive on Saturday. Also watch: Union Home Minister Amit Shah tests positive for COVID-19 Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who tested positive for COVID-19 along with his son Abhishek, daughter-in-law Aishwarya and grand daughter Araadhya, has now tested negative for the novel coronavirus. 🙏🏽 my father, thankfully, has tested negative on his latest Covid-19 test and has been discharged from the hospital. He will now be at home and rest. Thank you all for all your prayers and wishes for him. 🙏🏽 — Abhishek Bachchan (@juniorbachchan) August 2, 2020 × West Bengal recorded 49 fatalities pushing toll to 1,678. The state recorded highest single-day spike of 2,739 new cases, taking tally to 75,516. Uttar Pradesh reported 3,853 new cases, taking the toll to 92,921 and death toll to 1,730 with 53 fatalities reported in last 24 hours.

COVID-19: India crosses 18 lakh mark with 52,972 new cases

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries.&nbsp;

A British High Commission Spokesperson told WION, “The Government of India has now permitted UK carriers to re-establish bilateral air routes. We are working closely with airlines to finalise details as soon as possible. More information will be announced in due course.”

Details are being worked out with the UK expected to announce details in due course.

India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France and Germany.

International air travel has been hit hard amidst the global pandemic. 
&nbsp;

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries.

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries. A British High Commission Spokesperson told WION, “The Government of India has now permitted UK carriers to re-establish bilateral air routes. We are working closely with airlines to finalise details as soon as possible. More information will be announced in due course.” Details are being worked out with the UK expected to announce details in due course. India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France and Germany. International air travel has been hit hard amidst the global pandemic.

India inks air bubble deal with United Kingdom

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China.

ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-an-important-role-at-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-uzbekistan-envoy-223876">India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Uzbekistan envoy</a>

Quoting informed sources ANI said that that meet was scheduled during pre- COVID times and India can only confirm its participation after evaluating the current situation, as of now there is no official confirmation that India will take part in the scheduled meetings in Moscow.

If India decides to take part, this will be the first time that foreign ministers of India, Pakistan and China will come face to face in the same group ever since the conflict at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-formally-become-member-of-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-within-a-week-president-putin-16325">&nbsp;India to formally become member of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation within a week: President Putin</a>

Tensions continue to build up along the LAC as there is still no complete disengagement at the border. India and China are holding rounds of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the situation. 
&nbsp;

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China. ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China. ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet." Also read: India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Uzbekistan envoy Quoting informed sources ANI said that that meet was scheduled during pre- COVID times and India can only confirm its participation after evaluating the current situation, as of now there is no official confirmation that India will take part in the scheduled meetings in Moscow. If India decides to take part, this will be the first time that foreign ministers of India, Pakistan and China will come face to face in the same group ever since the conflict at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Also read: India to formally become member of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation within a week: President Putin Tensions continue to build up along the LAC as there is still no complete disengagement at the border. India and China are holding rounds of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the situation.

India yet to confirm participation in SCO meet; Pak, China to attend

Maharashtra reported 10,320 new cases on Friday, taking the COVID-19 tally to 4,22,118, while 265 fresh deaths - 53 of them in Mumbai - raised the toll to 14,994, the state Health department said.

A statement from the Health department said 7,543 patients were also discharged from hospitals after they recovered from the viral infection.

Also read |&nbsp;Unlock 3.0: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unlock-30-punjab-government-allows-gyms-yoga-centres-to-reopen-night-curfew-to-continue-317321">Punjab government allows gyms, yoga centres to reopen; night curfew to continue</a>

As many as 2,56,158 COVID-19 patients have been discharged so far in the state, it said.

The recovery rate in the state is now 60.68 per cent, while the case fatality rate is 3.55 per cent, the statement said.

There are 1,50,966 active cases in the state, where the number of people tested so far stood at 21,30,098, it added.

Out of the 10,320 cases, Mumbai recorded 1,085 cases and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) accounted for 3,361 cases. 
 
Out of the 265 deaths, 128 were in the MMR, including 53 in Mumbai.

There are 1,14,284 positive cases in Mumbai and 6353 deaths.

While in the MMR, the total cases stood at 2,39,783 and deaths at 9,638.

In Pune city, 1,635 cases were reported, while in Pimpri-Chinchwad the new infection count was 919.

Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation limits saw 180 new cases, Nagpur city 129, Solapur city 95, Nashik city 313 and Ahmednagar city 159.

Maharashtra COVID-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases, 4,22,118, new cases 10,320, deaths 14,994, discharged 2,56,158, active 1,50,966, people tested so far 21,30,098.

Maharashtra reported 10,320 new cases on Friday, taking the COVID-19 tally to 4,22,118, while 265 fresh deaths - 53 of them in Mumbai - raised the toll to 14,994, the state Health department said.

Maharashtra reported 10,320 new cases on Friday, taking the COVID-19 tally to 4,22,118, while 265 fresh deaths - 53 of them in Mumbai - raised the toll to 14,994, the state Health department said. A statement from the Health department said 7,543 patients were also discharged from hospitals after they recovered from the viral infection. Also read | Unlock 3.0: Punjab government allows gyms, yoga centres to reopen; night curfew to continue As many as 2,56,158 COVID-19 patients have been discharged so far in the state, it said. The recovery rate in the state is now 60.68 per cent, while the case fatality rate is 3.55 per cent, the statement said. There are 1,50,966 active cases in the state, where the number of people tested so far stood at 21,30,098, it added. Out of the 10,320 cases, Mumbai recorded 1,085 cases and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) accounted for 3,361 cases. Out of the 265 deaths, 128 were in the MMR, including 53 in Mumbai. There are 1,14,284 positive cases in Mumbai and 6353 deaths. While in the MMR, the total cases stood at 2,39,783 and deaths at 9,638. In Pune city, 1,635 cases were reported, while in Pimpri-Chinchwad the new infection count was 919. Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad Municipal Corporation limits saw 180 new cases, Nagpur city 129, Solapur city 95, Nashik city 313 and Ahmednagar city 159. Maharashtra COVID-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases, 4,22,118, new cases 10,320, deaths 14,994, discharged 2,56,158, active 1,50,966, people tested so far 21,30,098.

Maharashtra records more than 10,000 coronavirus cases; total infections over 420,000

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka.

In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated&nbsp;such as&nbsp;People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

On the face of it, the&nbsp;meeting was to discuss the coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond".

Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-using-buddhist-clergy-and-leaders-to-compromise-sri-lanka-elections-317068">Also read|&nbsp;China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections</a>

Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8&nbsp;billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing.

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In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry.

Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tried-to-steal-vaccine-research-from-us-university-investigators-316899">Also read|&nbsp;China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators</a>

Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold.

The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership&nbsp;with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the&nbsp;project has still not received a green light from the local government who&nbsp;apparently&nbsp;are hoping for a better deal.

Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the&nbsp;dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the&nbsp;strike was called off.

Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and&nbsp;someone who has served as a post-war army chief.

The US, too, is facing something similar. American government&nbsp;offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition.

A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President.

The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the&nbsp;cabinet won't matter.

So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka. On the face of it, the meeting was to discuss the coronavirus outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond". Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it. Also read| China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8 billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing. × In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry. Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground. Also read| China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold. The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the project has still not received a green light from the local government who apparently are hoping for a better deal. Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the strike was called off. Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and someone who has served as a post-war army chief. The US, too, is facing something similar. American government offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition. A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President. The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the cabinet won't matter. So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations."

Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships.&nbsp;It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. "

Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-47-chinese-apps-that-were-clones-of-the-59-apps-banned-in-june-316190">Also read:&nbsp;India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June</a>

He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/names-of-soldiers-killed-in-galwan-clash-to-be-inscribed-on-national-war-memorial-316987">Also read:&nbsp;Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial</a>

Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products".

He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities."

He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions.

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations." Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships. It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. " Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices. Also read: India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation." Also read: Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products". He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities." He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In veiled message on China, PM Modi says New Delhi's development partnership does not come with conditions

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said.

They said Indian troops opened fire when they intercepted movement of a group of terrorists near the LoC in the Nowshera sector, they said.

They said there was a brief exchange of fire.

Subsequently a blast took place, probably after an intruder stepped on a landmine.

In the gunfight and blast, two terrorists were killed and another was injured, they said.

The bodies of the slain terrorists were yet to be recovered.

There is apprehension that their accomplices, who were pushed back, might have taken these with them from the spot.

"The entire area along the LoC has been cordoned off and searches are going on," a source said.

On June 1, Army personnel had foiled a similar infiltration bid and killed three heavily-armed intruders in the same area.

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said.

Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and another was injured on Tuesday night as Indian Army personnel foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, officials said. They said Indian troops opened fire when they intercepted movement of a group of terrorists near the LoC in the Nowshera sector, they said. They said there was a brief exchange of fire. Subsequently a blast took place, probably after an intruder stepped on a landmine. In the gunfight and blast, two terrorists were killed and another was injured, they said. The bodies of the slain terrorists were yet to be recovered. There is apprehension that their accomplices, who were pushed back, might have taken these with them from the spot. "The entire area along the LoC has been cordoned off and searches are going on," a source said. On June 1, Army personnel had foiled a similar infiltration bid and killed three heavily-armed intruders in the same area.

Two Pakistani terrorists killed as Army foils infiltration bid along LoC

India on Monday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan High Commission over reports of attempts being made to convert a famous gurudwara at Naulakha Bazaar in Lahore into a mosque, a spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-fund-reconstruction-of-300-year-old-temple-in-bangladesh-316237" hreflang="en">India to fund reconstruction of 300-year-old temple in Bangladesh</a>

"A strong protest was lodged with the Pakistan High Commission today on the reported incident whereby Gurdwara 'Shahidi Asthan', site of martyrdom of Bhai Taru Singh ji at Naulakha Bazaar in Lahore, Pakistan has been claimed as the place of Masjid Shahid Ganj and attempts are being made to convert it to a mosque," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

He said India expressed its concerns, in strongest terms, on the incident and called upon Pakistan to investigate the matter and take immediate remedial measures.

"Pakistan was also called upon to look after the safety, security, well-being of its minority communities including protection of their religious rights and cultural heritage," Srivastava said, responding to a query on the matter.

He said Gurdwara Shahidi Asthan Bhai Taru Ji is a historical gurdwara where Bhai Taru Ji made supreme sacrifice in 1745.

"The gurdwara is a place of reverence and considered sacred by the Sikh community. This incident has been viewed with grave concern in India. There have been calls for justice for the minority Sikh community in Pakistan," he added.

India on Monday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan High Commission over reports of attempts being made to convert a famous gurudwara at Naulakha Bazaar in Lahore into a mosque, a spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

India on Monday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan High Commission over reports of attempts being made to convert a famous gurudwara at Naulakha Bazaar in Lahore into a mosque, a spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Also read: India to fund reconstruction of 300-year-old temple in Bangladesh "A strong protest was lodged with the Pakistan High Commission today on the reported incident whereby Gurdwara 'Shahidi Asthan', site of martyrdom of Bhai Taru Singh ji at Naulakha Bazaar in Lahore, Pakistan has been claimed as the place of Masjid Shahid Ganj and attempts are being made to convert it to a mosque," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He said India expressed its concerns, in strongest terms, on the incident and called upon Pakistan to investigate the matter and take immediate remedial measures. "Pakistan was also called upon to look after the safety, security, well-being of its minority communities including protection of their religious rights and cultural heritage," Srivastava said, responding to a query on the matter. He said Gurdwara Shahidi Asthan Bhai Taru Ji is a historical gurdwara where Bhai Taru Ji made supreme sacrifice in 1745. "The gurdwara is a place of reverence and considered sacred by the Sikh community. This incident has been viewed with grave concern in India. There have been calls for justice for the minority Sikh community in Pakistan," he added.

Gurudwara in Pakistan is being converted into mosque? India lodges strong protest with Imran govt

India has banned 47 Chinese apps which were clones of 59 Chinese apps which were banned in June. These include TikTok Lite,&nbsp;Cam Scanner advance.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-take-possession-of-closed-us-consulate-in-chengdu-foreign-ministry-316173">Chinese authorities take possession of closed US consulate in Chengdu</a>

Order was issued on Friday. The comes even has Indian govt tighten rule for Chinese companies to invest in India. Last week India amended&nbsp;General Financial Rules 2017 making it difficult for Chinese companies to be part of govt procurement.

The order said,"Any&nbsp;bidder from countries sharing a land border with India will be eligible to bid in any procurement whether of goods, services (including consultancy services and non-consultancy services) or works (including turnkey projects)&nbsp;only if the bidder is registered with the Competent Authority."

The Competent Authority for registration will be the Registration Committee constituted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Political and security clearance from the Ministries of External and Home Affairs respectively will be mandatory.

On June 29, India&nbsp;banned 59 Chinese apps including popular tiktok app after a violent face-off at Line Of Actual Contol in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died.&nbsp;Chinese forces also suffered casualties but haven't come out with a number.

India has banned 47 Chinese apps which were clones of 59 Chinese apps which were banned in June. These include TikTok Lite, Cam Scanner advance. Also read: Chinese authorities take possession of closed US consulate in Chengdu Order was issued on Friday.

India has banned 47 Chinese apps which were clones of 59 Chinese apps which were banned in June. These include TikTok Lite, Cam Scanner advance. Also read: Chinese authorities take possession of closed US consulate in Chengdu Order was issued on Friday. The comes even has Indian govt tighten rule for Chinese companies to invest in India. Last week India amended General Financial Rules 2017 making it difficult for Chinese companies to be part of govt procurement. The order said,"Any bidder from countries sharing a land border with India will be eligible to bid in any procurement whether of goods, services (including consultancy services and non-consultancy services) or works (including turnkey projects) only if the bidder is registered with the Competent Authority." The Competent Authority for registration will be the Registration Committee constituted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Political and security clearance from the Ministries of External and Home Affairs respectively will be mandatory. On June 29, India banned 59 Chinese apps including popular tiktok app after a violent face-off at Line Of Actual Contol in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. Chinese forces also suffered casualties but haven't come out with a number.

India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June

A report claims that Russia has postponed the delivery of the&nbsp;S-400 missile system to China with&nbsp;experts claiming&nbsp;that&nbsp;the postponement may just hint at cancellation.

S-400 is currently among the most coveted surface-to-air missile systems. It is&nbsp;made in Russia and is pitched as the most-efficient long-range air defense systems. It&nbsp;is capable of destroying targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometres and a height of up to 30 kilometres.

In 2014, China had signed a government-to-government contract with Russia. The deal was worth $3 billion. China received its first S-400 on May 10, 2018. However, it may turn out to be China's last.

Currently, Russia, Belarus and Turkey too have the S-400 defense system.&nbsp;India signed a $5.4 billion deal in 2018 and is likely to get its first S-400 by 2021.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-rafale-fighter-jets-will-be-stationed-just-200-km-from-pakistan-china-border-at-ambala-air-base-316311#rafale-fighter-jet-in-india-316296">Have a look:&nbsp;Why Rafale fighter jets will be stationed just 200 km from Pakistan, China border at Ambala air base</a>

Several other countries - Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Vietnam, Morocco&nbsp;have expressed interest in buying the Russian technology. Beijing reportedly ordered a couple of S-400s.

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However, for now, Russia has paused delivery.&nbsp;Moscow and Beijing were seen growing closer than ever, but there has been a roadblock in the bilateral relation as Russia has accused China of spying.

Valery Mitko, President of St. Petersburh Arctic Social Sciences Academy, has been alleged by Russia of handing over classified information to Chinese authorities.

However, the development on the S-400 area hints&nbsp;towards more reasons. The postponement came amid the call to boycott China.

Second, it also came at a time when China and India exchanged violent fires at the Galwan valley. The violence was followed by a question of whose side is Russia on. The hold on S-400s to Beijing may hint at an answer.

The postponement is also important as it is came when&nbsp;the world is gearing up for another Cold War.

China is rubbishing all of this and&nbsp;is keen on projecting the development as pandemic-related.&nbsp;

"The reasons given by Russia are very heartwarming. It turns out that Russia is worried that the delivery of S-400 missiles at this time will affect the anti-pandemic actions of the Chinese army and does not want to cause trouble to China," reported a Chinese newspaper.

The truth is China's troubles are only mounting and Russia halting the S-400 delivery may just be the latest sign of Moscow distancing itself from Beijing.

India's role

The move can definitely be read as an advantage for&nbsp;India. New Delhi has been regularly talking to Moscow since the Galwan skirmish.

India is looking to buy spare parts, ammunition and weapons and the estimated cost of acquisition is over $1 billion. Therefore, Russia's pause on S-400 to China may have technological advantage for India.

A report claims that Russia has postponed the delivery of the S-400 missile system to China with experts claiming that the postponement may just hint at cancellation.

A report claims that Russia has postponed the delivery of the S-400 missile system to China with experts claiming that the postponement may just hint at cancellation. S-400 is currently among the most coveted surface-to-air missile systems. It is made in Russia and is pitched as the most-efficient long-range air defense systems. It is capable of destroying targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometres and a height of up to 30 kilometres. In 2014, China had signed a government-to-government contract with Russia. The deal was worth $3 billion. China received its first S-400 on May 10, 2018. However, it may turn out to be China's last. Currently, Russia, Belarus and Turkey too have the S-400 defense system. India signed a $5.4 billion deal in 2018 and is likely to get its first S-400 by 2021. Have a look: Why Rafale fighter jets will be stationed just 200 km from Pakistan, China border at Ambala air base Several other countries - Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Vietnam, Morocco have expressed interest in buying the Russian technology. Beijing reportedly ordered a couple of S-400s. × However, for now, Russia has paused delivery. Moscow and Beijing were seen growing closer than ever, but there has been a roadblock in the bilateral relation as Russia has accused China of spying. Valery Mitko, President of St. Petersburh Arctic Social Sciences Academy, has been alleged by Russia of handing over classified information to Chinese authorities. However, the development on the S-400 area hints towards more reasons. The postponement came amid the call to boycott China. Second, it also came at a time when China and India exchanged violent fires at the Galwan valley. The violence was followed by a question of whose side is Russia on. The hold on S-400s to Beijing may hint at an answer. The postponement is also important as it is came when the world is gearing up for another Cold War. China is rubbishing all of this and is keen on projecting the development as pandemic-related. "The reasons given by Russia are very heartwarming. It turns out that Russia is worried that the delivery of S-400 missiles at this time will affect the anti-pandemic actions of the Chinese army and does not want to cause trouble to China," reported a Chinese newspaper. The truth is China's troubles are only mounting and Russia halting the S-400 delivery may just be the latest sign of Moscow distancing itself from Beijing. India's role The move can definitely be read as an advantage for India. New Delhi has been regularly talking to Moscow since the Galwan skirmish. India is looking to buy spare parts, ammunition and weapons and the estimated cost of acquisition is over $1 billion. Therefore, Russia's pause on S-400 to China may have technological advantage for India.

Now, Russia halts delivery of S-400 missile defense system to China

Two teenage girls from India have discovered an Earth-bound asteroid by poring through images from a University of Hawaii telescope, an Indian space education institute said on Monday.

The asteroid is presently near Mars and its orbit is expected to cross that of Earth in about one million years` time, said SPACE India, a private institute where the two 14-year-old girls received training.

"I look forward to... when we will get a chance to name the asteroid," said Vaidehi Vekariya, who added that she wants to become an astronaut when she is older.

The asteroid, currently called HLV2514, may be officially christened only after NASA confirms its orbit, a SPACE India spokeswoman said.

Radhika Lakhani, the other student, said she was working hard on her education. "I don`t even have a TV at home, so that I can concentrate on my studies."

Asteroids and comets pose a potential threat to Earth, and scientists discover thousands of them each year. In 2013, an asteroid heavier than the Eiffel Tower exploded over central Russia, leaving more than 1,000 people injured from its shockwave.

The two girls, who hail from Surat, discovered the object as part of an asteroid search campaign conducted by SPACE India along with the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC), a NASA-affiliated citizen scientist group.

IASC Director J. Patrick Miller confirmed the discovery, according to an email from him to the girls seen by Reuters. 
The girls used specialised software to analyse the images snapped by the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii, and made the discovery in June, SPACE India said.

The institute is among the few private space education initiatives in India, a country known for championing low-cost space technology that has spurred missions to the moon and Mars.

Two teenage girls from India have discovered an Earth-bound asteroid by poring through images from a University of Hawaii telescope, an Indian space education institute said on Monday.

Two teenage girls from India have discovered an Earth-bound asteroid by poring through images from a University of Hawaii telescope, an Indian space education institute said on Monday. The asteroid is presently near Mars and its orbit is expected to cross that of Earth in about one million years` time, said SPACE India, a private institute where the two 14-year-old girls received training. "I look forward to... when we will get a chance to name the asteroid," said Vaidehi Vekariya, who added that she wants to become an astronaut when she is older. The asteroid, currently called HLV2514, may be officially christened only after NASA confirms its orbit, a SPACE India spokeswoman said. Radhika Lakhani, the other student, said she was working hard on her education. "I don`t even have a TV at home, so that I can concentrate on my studies." Asteroids and comets pose a potential threat to Earth, and scientists discover thousands of them each year. In 2013, an asteroid heavier than the Eiffel Tower exploded over central Russia, leaving more than 1,000 people injured from its shockwave. The two girls, who hail from Surat, discovered the object as part of an asteroid search campaign conducted by SPACE India along with the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC), a NASA-affiliated citizen scientist group. IASC Director J. Patrick Miller confirmed the discovery, according to an email from him to the girls seen by Reuters. The girls used specialised software to analyse the images snapped by the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii, and made the discovery in June, SPACE India said. The institute is among the few private space education initiatives in India, a country known for championing low-cost space technology that has spurred missions to the moon and Mars.

School girls in India discover Earth-bound asteroid

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