Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.&nbsp;

In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India."

Asked on the so-called referendum being organised outlawed Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terror-india-canada-closely-cooperating-312993">Also read|&nbsp;Khalistani terror: India, Canada closely cooperating</a>

The remarks have been welcomed by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria speaking to WION from Ottawa saying, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns."

He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues."

India has requested Canada to check anti-India activities and also proscribe individuals and entities declared illegal in India.&nbsp;

Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India, accounting for around 1.4 per cent of the population of the North American country.

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada.

Rejecting Khalistani separatism, Canada has said it will back India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In response to WION's question, the Canadian foreign ministry said, "The Canada-India bilateral relationship is a priority for the Government of Canada. Canada respects the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of India." Asked on the so-called referendum being organised outlawed Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the Canadian foreign ministry said that the, "Government of Canada will not recognize the referendum.” Also read| Khalistani terror: India, Canada closely cooperating The remarks have been welcomed by India, with the Indian envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria speaking to WION from Ottawa saying, "Canada continues to show sensitivity to Indian security concerns." He explained, "Canada is a strategic partner for India" and New Delhi will "continue to engage closely with Canadian interlocutors, including security agencies, on a range of bilateral security issues." India has requested Canada to check anti-India activities and also proscribe individuals and entities declared illegal in India. Canada has the largest number of Sikhs outside of India, accounting for around 1.4 per cent of the population of the North American country.

Canada rejects Khalistani separatism impacting India's sovereignty; India welcomes the development

India and Sri Lanka on Friday agreed for $ 400 million currency swap agreement. The agreement signed by India's central bank Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extends the swap facility for Sri Lanka till Nov 2022.&nbsp;

The development comes as a relief to Sri Lanka amidst COVID and will help in its post-pandemic economic recovery.

A currency swap is a transaction in which two parties exchange principal and interest in different currencies. Companies doing business abroad often use currency swaps to get more favourable loan rates in the local currency than if they borrowed money from a local bank.

Example, if Sri Lanka borrows $1.34 (Rs 100) from India and told India that it will repay $1.34 (Rs 100) in Indian currency but Interest in dollars or vice versa Sri Lanka borrows Indian $1.34 (Rs 100) from India and gave back the main amount in dollars and repaid interest in INR. Both parties benefit by hedging against interest rates.

Both countries are currently engaged in debt repayment rescheduling talks. On 22nd, the last round to technical discussion was held on the rescheduling of bilateral debt repayment by Sri Lanka. The Indian delegation comprising of senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Ministry of Finance, and the EXIM Bank interacted with representatives from the Department of External Resources of Sri Lanka through a video conference.

A release from the Indian mission in Sri Lanka said, "The next round of technical discussions between the two sides on the rescheduling of debt repayment is expected to be held soon."

The Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had spoken to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 23 in which the former requested Indian govt to provide USD 1.1 billion special SWAP facility to top up USD 400 million under SAARC facility amidst the COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

India and Sri Lanka on Friday agreed for $ 400 million currency swap agreement. The agreement signed by India's central bank Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extends the swap facility for Sri Lanka till Nov 2022.

India and Sri Lanka on Friday agreed for $ 400 million currency swap agreement. The agreement signed by India's central bank Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extends the swap facility for Sri Lanka till Nov 2022. The development comes as a relief to Sri Lanka amidst COVID and will help in its post-pandemic economic recovery. A currency swap is a transaction in which two parties exchange principal and interest in different currencies. Companies doing business abroad often use currency swaps to get more favourable loan rates in the local currency than if they borrowed money from a local bank. Example, if Sri Lanka borrows $1.34 (Rs 100) from India and told India that it will repay $1.34 (Rs 100) in Indian currency but Interest in dollars or vice versa Sri Lanka borrows Indian $1.34 (Rs 100) from India and gave back the main amount in dollars and repaid interest in INR. Both parties benefit by hedging against interest rates. Both countries are currently engaged in debt repayment rescheduling talks. On 22nd, the last round to technical discussion was held on the rescheduling of bilateral debt repayment by Sri Lanka. The Indian delegation comprising of senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Ministry of Finance, and the EXIM Bank interacted with representatives from the Department of External Resources of Sri Lanka through a video conference. A release from the Indian mission in Sri Lanka said, "The next round of technical discussions between the two sides on the rescheduling of debt repayment is expected to be held soon." The Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had spoken to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 23 in which the former requested Indian govt to provide USD 1.1 billion special SWAP facility to top up USD 400 million under SAARC facility amidst the COVID pandemic.

India agrees for $400 million currency swap facility for Sri Lanka

The World Health Organization said on Thursday that the United States, Brazil and India, which are all suffering fast rises in coronavirus cases, can still get on top of the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-politics-should-be-quarantined-says-who-chief-tedros-over-pompeos-remark-315518">Also read: Coronavirus politics should be quarantined, says WHO chief Tedros over Pompeo's remark</a> 
 
They are "powerful, able, democratic countries who have tremendous internal capacities to deal with this disease", Dr Mike Ryan, head of the WHO emergencies programme, told a Geneva briefing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dead-britons-pompeo-slams-world-health-organization-says-chief-tedros-bought-by-china-315441">'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China</a>

US coronavirus cases exceeded 4 million on Thursday, with over 2,600 new cases recorded every hour on average, the highest rate in the world, according to a Reuters tally.

The World Health Organization said on Thursday that the United States, Brazil and India, which are all suffering fast rises in coronavirus cases, can still get on top of the pandemic.

The World Health Organization said on Thursday that the United States, Brazil and India, which are all suffering fast rises in coronavirus cases, can still get on top of the pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus politics should be quarantined, says WHO chief Tedros over Pompeo's remark They are "powerful, able, democratic countries who have tremendous internal capacities to deal with this disease", Dr Mike Ryan, head of the WHO emergencies programme, told a Geneva briefing. Also read: 'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China US coronavirus cases exceeded 4 million on Thursday, with over 2,600 new cases recorded every hour on average, the highest rate in the world, according to a Reuters tally.

India, US and Brazil can ‘deal with’ Covid-19 pandemic, says WHO

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper, envoy Verma said, "We&nbsp;have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pla-troops-still-stationed-along-lac-despite-disengagement-315500">Also read|&nbsp;India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement</a>

His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the line of actual control after the violent flare up of June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India.&nbsp;

Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue", envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-arming-itself-to-remain-compelling-deterrent-against-attack-by-neighbours-315496">Also read|&nbsp;India arming itself to remain compelling deterrent against attack by neighbours</a>

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in&nbsp;June end&nbsp;to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 Cr.

On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region."

Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed.&nbsp;

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India's ambassador to Russia Venkatesh Verma has said it won't be "business as usual" with China till "complete disengagement" has happened at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Speaking to Izvestia, also considered the country's national newspaper, envoy Verma said, "We have made it clear that we will not do business with China as usual until there is a complete disengagement of military forces along the Line of Actual Control and de-escalation in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements and protocols. As Prime Minister Modi noted, this is an era of development, and the era of expansion has come to an end." Also read| India-China standoff: PLA troops still stationed along LAC despite disengagement His comments are significant, given Moscow has been briefed by India on the situation at the line of actual control after the violent flare up of June 15. The actions by Chinese that killed 20 Indian soldiers have been termed "premeditated" by India. Welcoming Russia for demonstrating "understanding of India's position on the border issue", envoy said, "we are completely satisfied with the progress of our military-technical cooperation with Russia and the rapid delivery of weapons, so we look forward to the visit of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to India towards the end of this year." Also read| India arming itself to remain compelling deterrent against attack by neighbours India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had visited Moscow in June end to take part in victory day parade. India recently approved a proposal for procurement of 21 MIG-29 along with up-gradation of existing 59 Mig-29 aircraft from Russia at an estimated cost of Rs 7418 Cr. On Indo Pacific, the envoy said, "India and Russia share common interest so that the Indo-Pacific region becomes a region of peace, stability and economic prosperity, so that no country seeks unilateral advantage at the cost of the entire region." Russia is reluctant on the concept, given it is Washington-backed.

No business as usual with China until complete disengagement: Indian envoy to Russia Venkatesh Verma

A new cold war is brewing between the United States and China. The two arch-rivals are out to get each other. Xi Jinping wants to beat America and Donald Trump wants to single out China.

A new cold war is brewing between the United States and China. The two arch-rivals are out to get each other. Xi Jinping wants to beat America and Donald Trump wants to single out China. The powerplay is on and the United States has made three huge moves to target the Chinese - military posturing, consulate battles and going after Chinese hackers The United States has been equipping and positioning its forces across Asia. US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper outlined the plan. The US has been sending navy ships to Asia and is selling arms to Taiwan. America has been creating and arming an alliance on the high seas even as Chinese ships have been active in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. × Esper said activities by China has been destabilising the entire region and America wishes to counter it. A key part of America's strategy will be India. The US Secretary of Defence brought up the recent naval exercise off the coast of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Esper said such exercises are an effort to project power. America on Wednesday ordered China to shut down its consulate in Houston within 72 hours because US officials believe the diplomatic outpost was being used for spying for expanding Chinese influence in America. Washington has not shared the specifics but it has constantly accused China of attempts to steal commercial and military secrets, a charge that China continues to deny. This video shared with us by a viewer who lives next to the Consulate General of China in #Houston shows fire and activity in the courtyard of the building. DETAILS SO FAR: https://t.co/2cOeKoap96 pic.twitter.com/0myxe6HIlC — KPRC2Tulsi (@KPRC2Tulsi) July 22, 2020 × Chinese diplomats were reportedly seen dumping paper into flaming barrels hours after the Trump administration asked China to close this consulate. As for the consulate, China has sovereignty over it. According to international rules, no one can enter or leave without China’s permission technically, not even Americans. America has made accused China of spying. US Investigators said that it is not just Chinese missions that snoop, they say China has hired hackers. They're stealing coronavirus vaccine research not just in America but around the world. The US has also charged two former electrical engineering students for allegedly being private hackers. They reportedly worked for money and also received support from Chinese intelligence agents. Two firms in the US were allegedly targeted - a biotech firm in Massachusetts that was researching possible cures for the Wuhan virus and a Maryland company which was researching the virus.

As new cold war brews, US takes three big steps to target China

A UK-based charity will host its first-ever virtual fundraiser to raise money for India's rural communities in response to an annual art festival being cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Action Village India (AVI) said the Madras Cafe Unlocked event, which runs from Friday till Sunday, will feature an all-digital range of content including exhibitions, talks and yoga sessions.

At the digital Food for Thought stage, the charity will launch its 'Madras Cafe Cookbook' packed with recipes.

"Action Village India (AVI) is a small, UK-based charity which partners with Indian organisations which work alongside women, men and children in some of the remotest parts of rural India so that they can access their rights and improve their livelihoods and resilience, without being held back by their gender, caste or religious beliefs," the charity said.

It supports initiatives focused on land and water rights, maternal and child health, girls' education, women's economic empowerment and disability rights and the support is founded on the principles of partnership and solidarity.

For over 25 years, Madras Cafe has been a regular presence at the world-renowned WOMAD festival held in south-west England, which annually celebrates the world's many forms of music, arts and dance.

But with the 2020 instalment cancelled amid the strict social distancing rules, Madras Cafe said it has decided to take things digital with a fundraising event and opportunity to raise awareness about AVI's support to Indian partner organisations and solidarity with rural communities across India.

It will include a number of virtual stages including Madras Boombox, Food for Thought, Partnerships and Solidarity, Jaijagat Exhibition, a Poetree, Peoples' Stage and Madras Cafe Family.

The Madras Boombox Stage will have live music contributions from artists from the Darbar Arts Culture Heritage Trust -- Sarathy Korwar, Ansuman Biswas and Rolf Killius, curator of the tribal Indian music collection for the British Library.

The exhibition section also has a number of events from the end of July to September, besides a range of conversations with Indian partners.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A UK-based charity will host its first-ever virtual fundraiser to raise money for India's rural communities in response to an annual art festival being cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A UK-based charity will host its first-ever virtual fundraiser to raise money for India's rural communities in response to an annual art festival being cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Action Village India (AVI) said the Madras Cafe Unlocked event, which runs from Friday till Sunday, will feature an all-digital range of content including exhibitions, talks and yoga sessions. At the digital Food for Thought stage, the charity will launch its 'Madras Cafe Cookbook' packed with recipes. "Action Village India (AVI) is a small, UK-based charity which partners with Indian organisations which work alongside women, men and children in some of the remotest parts of rural India so that they can access their rights and improve their livelihoods and resilience, without being held back by their gender, caste or religious beliefs," the charity said. It supports initiatives focused on land and water rights, maternal and child health, girls' education, women's economic empowerment and disability rights and the support is founded on the principles of partnership and solidarity. For over 25 years, Madras Cafe has been a regular presence at the world-renowned WOMAD festival held in south-west England, which annually celebrates the world's many forms of music, arts and dance. But with the 2020 instalment cancelled amid the strict social distancing rules, Madras Cafe said it has decided to take things digital with a fundraising event and opportunity to raise awareness about AVI's support to Indian partner organisations and solidarity with rural communities across India. It will include a number of virtual stages including Madras Boombox, Food for Thought, Partnerships and Solidarity, Jaijagat Exhibition, a Poetree, Peoples' Stage and Madras Cafe Family. The Madras Boombox Stage will have live music contributions from artists from the Darbar Arts Culture Heritage Trust -- Sarathy Korwar, Ansuman Biswas and Rolf Killius, curator of the tribal Indian music collection for the British Library. The exhibition section also has a number of events from the end of July to September, besides a range of conversations with Indian partners.

UK charity plans virtual festival to raise funds for rural India

Gold prices in India hit a record high on Wednesday, tracking a global rally.

Local gold futures reached an all-time high of $670.32 (Rs 49,996) per 10 grams in early trade, taking their gains to 28 per cent in 2020 after rising a quarter in 2019.

However, the price rise dampened retail demand for gold in India, the world's second largest consumer of the precious metal.

In overseas market, spot gold jumped more than 1 per cent on Wednesday to its highest in nearly nine years, driven by a weaker dollar and safe-haven buying.

India's gold imports in the June quarter plunged 96 per cent from a year earlier to 13 tonnes after shipments virtually ground to a halt in April and May.

Local silver prices jumped nearly 6 per cent on Wednesday to Rs 60,782 per kg, the highest in over seven years. 
&nbsp;

Gold prices in India hit a record high on Wednesday, tracking a global rally. Local gold futures reached an all-time high of $670.32 (Rs 49,996) per 10 grams in early trade, taking their gains to 28 per cent in 2020 after rising a quarter in 2019.

Gold prices in India hit a record high on Wednesday, tracking a global rally. Local gold futures reached an all-time high of $670.32 (Rs 49,996) per 10 grams in early trade, taking their gains to 28 per cent in 2020 after rising a quarter in 2019. However, the price rise dampened retail demand for gold in India, the world's second largest consumer of the precious metal. In overseas market, spot gold jumped more than 1 per cent on Wednesday to its highest in nearly nine years, driven by a weaker dollar and safe-haven buying. India's gold imports in the June quarter plunged 96 per cent from a year earlier to 13 tonnes after shipments virtually ground to a halt in April and May. Local silver prices jumped nearly 6 per cent on Wednesday to Rs 60,782 per kg, the highest in over seven years.

India gold prices hit all-time high, dampen retail demand

Days after Pakistan ordinance for review and reconsideration of Kulbhushan Jhadav case lapsed, Imran Khan government on Wednesday filed a petition in Islamabad High Court requesting it to appoint a lawyer for the case.

The 6-page petition said, "It is therefore prayed that in order to facilitate compliance with the Judgment of the International court of justice (ICJ), this hon'ble court may be pleased to appoint any suitable advocate practising before this court to file a petition for review and reconsideration of the conviction &amp; sentence" of Kulbhushan under the ordinance.''

This after Pakistan claimed that Jadhav said no to review petition under the ordinance, and it would like to invite India for consular access for the Indian national under its custody. Last week saw, Indian diplomats, being invited for the access but the "arrangements did not permit a free conversation" with Jhadav according to the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

The MEA explained, that diplomats "could not engage Jadhav on his legal rights and were prevented from obtaining his written consent for arranging his legal representation."

Meanwhile, ICJ in response to a WION's question, that Indian or Pakistani government has approached them on the 2019 Judgement said, "Judgment of the Court, which is binding, final and without appeal".&nbsp;

Speculations are rife that India might go to the world court back after non-implementation of 2019 judgement by Pakistan. Earlier this year, India's lead counsel on the Kulbhushan Jadhav case Harish Salve said New Delhi might have to go back to International Court of Justice to get directions for Pakistan to implement the judgement of the case.

Last year New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the ICJ When the world court had asked Pakistan to "provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations"

While India says Jadhav, an Indian National, was abducted from Iran, Pakistan claims he is a spy. He was sentenced Pakistani military court in 2017 and India knocked on ICJ's door to get a stay on the order. 
&nbsp;

Days after Pakistan ordinance for review and reconsideration of Kulbhushan Jhadav case lapsed, Imran Khan government on Wednesday filed a petition in Islamabad High Court requesting it to appoint a lawyer for the case.

Days after Pakistan ordinance for review and reconsideration of Kulbhushan Jhadav case lapsed, Imran Khan government on Wednesday filed a petition in Islamabad High Court requesting it to appoint a lawyer for the case. The 6-page petition said, "It is therefore prayed that in order to facilitate compliance with the Judgment of the International court of justice (ICJ), this hon'ble court may be pleased to appoint any suitable advocate practising before this court to file a petition for review and reconsideration of the conviction & sentence" of Kulbhushan under the ordinance.'' This after Pakistan claimed that Jadhav said no to review petition under the ordinance, and it would like to invite India for consular access for the Indian national under its custody. Last week saw, Indian diplomats, being invited for the access but the "arrangements did not permit a free conversation" with Jhadav according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The MEA explained, that diplomats "could not engage Jadhav on his legal rights and were prevented from obtaining his written consent for arranging his legal representation." Meanwhile, ICJ in response to a WION's question, that Indian or Pakistani government has approached them on the 2019 Judgement said, "Judgment of the Court, which is binding, final and without appeal". Speculations are rife that India might go to the world court back after non-implementation of 2019 judgement by Pakistan. Earlier this year, India's lead counsel on the Kulbhushan Jadhav case Harish Salve said New Delhi might have to go back to International Court of Justice to get directions for Pakistan to implement the judgement of the case. Last year New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the ICJ When the world court had asked Pakistan to "provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations" While India says Jadhav, an Indian National, was abducted from Iran, Pakistan claims he is a spy. He was sentenced Pakistani military court in 2017 and India knocked on ICJ's door to get a stay on the order.

Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Now, Pakistan seeks lawyer; ICJ says judgement final

India plans to store its crude oil in US strategic petroleum reserves for use not just during emergencies but also for trading to capture any price advantage, officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-as-us-president-would-help-india-get-seat-on-unsc-former-american-diplomat-314422" hreflang="en">Biden as US president would help India get seat on UNSC: Former American diplomat</a>

India and the US on July 17 signed a preliminary agreement for cooperating on emergency crude oil reserves, including the possibility of India storing oil in the US emergency stockpile.

"It is a good concept but comes with a lot of riders," a senior government official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-considering-indian-american-lawyer-to-head-asia-bureau-of-usaid-314408" hreflang="en">Trump considering Indian-American lawyer to head Asia Bureau of USAID</a>

For one, India will have to pay a rental for hiring the storages in the US. This rental will be on top of the international price for oil.

"The alternative is to build our own strategic reserves which will involve huge capital cost and will take a few years to construct. So the rental is a small fee to pay to get immediate access to a strategic reserve," the official said.

Strategic petroleum reserves (SPR) in the US are built and maintained by private companies.

The oil stored in the US reserves can be used for the nation's own needs or can be traded to capture price advantage, he said adding these two scenarios work when oil prices rise after India has bought and stored oil in US reserves.

"But if the prices fall, you will book losses," he said.

Also, if the sea route is obstructed, having a stockpile in the US will make no difference to India's energy security as the country will not be able to access them, he said. "It takes a month to ship oil from the US."

Storing oil in the US is a kind of physical hedging and all hedging comes with a cost, he said.

More importantly, storing large volumes involves paying upfront on purchase of crude oil and companies will have to block so much capital.

India had begun exploring the possibility of storing oil in the US a few months back but couldn't make much headway as COVID-19 pummelled demand, leading to excess oil around the globe that filled every inch of storage including those on ships.

Demand is returned but is less than pre-Covid levels.

In such a scenario, storing oil in the US would make a lot of sense if India were to hire a strategic facility maintained by an American oil producer.

"The commercial deal can be structured in such a way that we support the US firm to keep producing even when demand falls, and in return get access to its storage," the official said.

On July 17, India and US signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will allow the US to begin sharing with India the knowhow on establishment of a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR). The pact also allows India to explore the possibility of storing its oil in US SPR, comprising underground caverns in Texas and Louisiana.

US President Donald Trump in March ordered filling the SPR to its full capacity of about 714 million barrels but Congress failed to fund a purchase. 
Speaking to reporters after signing of the MoU, US Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette had stated that the India pact could mirror a recent plan with

Australia, which in April committed to spending about USD 60 million to build an emergency oil stockpile, first by buying crude to store in the US SPR.

Global oil prices fell steeply earlier this year as shutdowns from the novel coronavirus sapped demand, but have stabilised at around USD 43 a barrel.

"We are in an advanced stage of discussions for storing crude oil US strategic petroleum reserves to increase India's strategic oil stockpile," Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had said on Friday after co-chairing the second India-US Strategic Energy Partnership Ministerial with Brouillette.

The US has 714 million barrels of oil storage capacity in its strategic petroleum reserve, the world's largest supply of emergency crude oil.

In comparison, India stores 5.33 million tonnes (about 38 million barrels) of crude oil in underground storages at three locations on the east and west coast, hardly enough to meet its 9.5 days needs.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) prescribes its members to have at least 90 days of stock in the strategic reserves.

India has been looking to expand the storage capacity by another 6.5 million tonnes and is also exploring the possibility of hiring storage in the US to stock some oil that can be used in times of extreme price volatility or supply disruption.

India is the fourth-largest export destination for US crude.

"Between 2017 and last year, US crude oil exports to India rose by nearly 10-folds to almost 2,50,000 barrels per day. Between March 2016 and May of this year, 68 LNG shipments of over 234 billion cubic feet were exported to India," Brouillette had said on Friday.

The US is India's sixth-largest oil supplier.

India began importing crude oil from the US in 2017 as it looked to diversify its import basket beyond the OPEC nations. It bought 1.9 million tonnes (38,000 bpd) of crude oil from the US in 2017-18 and another 6.2 million tonnes (1,24,000 bpd) in 2018-19.

The volume that Brouillette talked about translates into 12.5 million tonnes of oil imports in a year.

India, which is 85 per cent dependent on imports to meet its oil needs, bought 101.4 million tonnes of crude oil from overseas during April 2019 to March 2020.

India plans to store its crude oil in US strategic petroleum reserves for use not just during emergencies but also for trading to capture any price advantage, officials said.

India plans to store its crude oil in US strategic petroleum reserves for use not just during emergencies but also for trading to capture any price advantage, officials said. Also read: Biden as US president would help India get seat on UNSC: Former American diplomat India and the US on July 17 signed a preliminary agreement for cooperating on emergency crude oil reserves, including the possibility of India storing oil in the US emergency stockpile. "It is a good concept but comes with a lot of riders," a senior government official said. Also read: Trump considering Indian-American lawyer to head Asia Bureau of USAID For one, India will have to pay a rental for hiring the storages in the US. This rental will be on top of the international price for oil. "The alternative is to build our own strategic reserves which will involve huge capital cost and will take a few years to construct. So the rental is a small fee to pay to get immediate access to a strategic reserve," the official said. Strategic petroleum reserves (SPR) in the US are built and maintained by private companies. The oil stored in the US reserves can be used for the nation's own needs or can be traded to capture price advantage, he said adding these two scenarios work when oil prices rise after India has bought and stored oil in US reserves. "But if the prices fall, you will book losses," he said. Also, if the sea route is obstructed, having a stockpile in the US will make no difference to India's energy security as the country will not be able to access them, he said. "It takes a month to ship oil from the US." Storing oil in the US is a kind of physical hedging and all hedging comes with a cost, he said. More importantly, storing large volumes involves paying upfront on purchase of crude oil and companies will have to block so much capital. India had begun exploring the possibility of storing oil in the US a few months back but couldn't make much headway as COVID-19 pummelled demand, leading to excess oil around the globe that filled every inch of storage including those on ships. Demand is returned but is less than pre-Covid levels. In such a scenario, storing oil in the US would make a lot of sense if India were to hire a strategic facility maintained by an American oil producer. "The commercial deal can be structured in such a way that we support the US firm to keep producing even when demand falls, and in return get access to its storage," the official said. On July 17, India and US signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will allow the US to begin sharing with India the knowhow on establishment of a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR). The pact also allows India to explore the possibility of storing its oil in US SPR, comprising underground caverns in Texas and Louisiana. US President Donald Trump in March ordered filling the SPR to its full capacity of about 714 million barrels but Congress failed to fund a purchase. Speaking to reporters after signing of the MoU, US Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette had stated that the India pact could mirror a recent plan with Australia, which in April committed to spending about USD 60 million to build an emergency oil stockpile, first by buying crude to store in the US SPR. Global oil prices fell steeply earlier this year as shutdowns from the novel coronavirus sapped demand, but have stabilised at around USD 43 a barrel. "We are in an advanced stage of discussions for storing crude oil US strategic petroleum reserves to increase India's strategic oil stockpile," Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had said on Friday after co-chairing the second India-US Strategic Energy Partnership Ministerial with Brouillette. The US has 714 million barrels of oil storage capacity in its strategic petroleum reserve, the world's largest supply of emergency crude oil. In comparison, India stores 5.33 million tonnes (about 38 million barrels) of crude oil in underground storages at three locations on the east and west coast, hardly enough to meet its 9.5 days needs. The International Energy Agency (IEA) prescribes its members to have at least 90 days of stock in the strategic reserves. India has been looking to expand the storage capacity by another 6.5 million tonnes and is also exploring the possibility of hiring storage in the US to stock some oil that can be used in times of extreme price volatility or supply disruption. India is the fourth-largest export destination for US crude. "Between 2017 and last year, US crude oil exports to India rose by nearly 10-folds to almost 2,50,000 barrels per day. Between March 2016 and May of this year, 68 LNG shipments of over 234 billion cubic feet were exported to India," Brouillette had said on Friday. The US is India's sixth-largest oil supplier. India began importing crude oil from the US in 2017 as it looked to diversify its import basket beyond the OPEC nations. It bought 1.9 million tonnes (38,000 bpd) of crude oil from the US in 2017-18 and another 6.2 million tonnes (1,24,000 bpd) in 2018-19. The volume that Brouillette talked about translates into 12.5 million tonnes of oil imports in a year. India, which is 85 per cent dependent on imports to meet its oil needs, bought 101.4 million tonnes of crude oil from overseas during April 2019 to March 2020.

India to store its crude oil in US' strategic petroleum reserves

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed officials to properly verify COVID-free certificates of tourists coming into the state. The instruction came after some tourists provided fake COVID-free certificates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/courts-in-india-have-rapidly-adopted-digital-technology-amid-covid-19-ravi-shankar-prasad-314420" hreflang="en">Courts in India have rapidly adopted digital technology amid COVID-19: Ravi Shankar Prasad</a>

According to Uttarakhand Chief Minister`s Office (CMO), "Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said that it has come to our knowledge that some tourists have come to our state with fake COVID-free certificates."

"All officers are directed to ensure proper checking of the certificates of all tourists while also seeing that no tourist faces problems," it added.

According to the Union Health Ministry, there are a total of 4,276 cases of coronavirus in the state so far. While the active cases stand at 1,143, the numbers of patients cured or discharged are 3,081. The death toll due to the infection in the state is at 52.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed officials to properly verify COVID-free certificates of tourists coming into the state. The instruction came after some tourists provided fake COVID-free certificates.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed officials to properly verify COVID-free certificates of tourists coming into the state. The instruction came after some tourists provided fake COVID-free certificates. Also read: Courts in India have rapidly adopted digital technology amid COVID-19: Ravi Shankar Prasad According to Uttarakhand Chief Minister`s Office (CMO), "Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said that it has come to our knowledge that some tourists have come to our state with fake COVID-free certificates." "All officers are directed to ensure proper checking of the certificates of all tourists while also seeing that no tourist faces problems," it added. According to the Union Health Ministry, there are a total of 4,276 cases of coronavirus in the state so far. While the active cases stand at 1,143, the numbers of patients cured or discharged are 3,081. The death toll due to the infection in the state is at 52.

Uttarakhand CM directs officials to verify COVID-free certificates of tourists entering state

Government of the state of Uttar Pradesh have assured Nepal envoy Nilamber Acharya on the safety of Nepali Nationals in the country.

This came after Nepali man's head was tonsured and he was forced to chant anti-Nepal slogans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-ruling-partys-meeting-to-decide-pm-olis-future-postponed-for-fifth-time-until-sunday-313965">Also read:&nbsp;Nepal ruling party's meeting to decide PM Oli's future postponed for fifth time until Sunday</a>

<img alt="FIR" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f660770-6594-4d56-9dde-76e6c3fdc39b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FIR.jpg" />

Nepal envoy Acharya had spoken to Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath, during which both sides agreed India-Nepal ties should not be impacted along with highest possible assurance given by the latter on the safety of Nepali nationals in the state.

The authorities in the state are fully seized of the matter with an FIR being lodged and culprits being traced. One arrest has already been made.&nbsp;

UP and Nepal share a long and open border with free flow of people.

Government of the state of Uttar Pradesh have assured Nepal envoy Nilamber Acharya on the safety of Nepali Nationals in the country. This came after Nepali man's head was tonsured and he was forced to chant anti-Nepal slogans.

Government of the state of Uttar Pradesh have assured Nepal envoy Nilamber Acharya on the safety of Nepali Nationals in the country. This came after Nepali man's head was tonsured and he was forced to chant anti-Nepal slogans. Also read: Nepal ruling party's meeting to decide PM Oli's future postponed for fifth time until Sunday Nepal envoy Acharya had spoken to Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath, during which both sides agreed India-Nepal ties should not be impacted along with highest possible assurance given by the latter on the safety of Nepali nationals in the state. The authorities in the state are fully seized of the matter with an FIR being lodged and culprits being traced. One arrest has already been made. UP and Nepal share a long and open border with free flow of people.

UP government assures Nepal on safety of its citizens

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said.

In the last 24 hours, four fresh deaths were reported in Patna district, followed by two in Muzaffarpur and one each in Bhagalpur, Gaya, East Champaran and Purnea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-to-impose-15-day-lockdown-to-curb-surge-in-covid-19-cases-313252">Bihar to impose 15-day lockdown to curb surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

The new fatalities have taken the toll to 167, with Patna accounting for the highest number of 27 deaths, followed by Bhagalpur (14), Darbhanga and Gaya (10 each), Muzaffarpur (eight) and Begusarai, Nalanda, East Champaran and Samastipur (seven each) among others.

Patna district reported its biggest single-day spike of 378 cases, raising the total number of those infected to 2,880, according to a bulletin issued by the state health department. 
 
The district, which also covers the state capital, has an alarmingly high number of 1,315 active cases, the bulletin said.

Other districts reporting fresh cases were Nalanda (93), Muzaffarpur (68), Siwan (63), Bhagalpur (55), Bhojpur (54) and West Champaran (53). In terms of total number of COVID-19 cases, Patna is followed by Bhagalpur (1,318), Begusarai (1,014), Muzaffarpur (968) and Siwan (919).

Altogether, 14,101 people have recovered so far. The state's recovery rate is 65.41 per cent, a drop of more than 10 per cent points in a week.

More than 5,000 cases have been added to the state's tally in the last four days.

In view of a rapid spurt in cases, a 16-day complete lockdown came into force across the state on Thursday.

Meanwhile, at a high-level meeting to review the situation, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed satisfaction over the state achieving the target of 10,000 tests per day.

He, however, asked Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar to raise the testing capacity to 20,000 tests per day.

He said the state's recovery rate was still better than the national average and urged people to avoid panic but remain vigilant and observe norms like wearing of masks and maintaining physical distance.

State minister Ashok Choudhary, addressing a webinar on how Bihar was tackling the pandemic, said the recent spurt in the state's COVID tally came in the backdrop of an unprecedented spike on the national level.

"We were ready for the challenges as scientists had predicted a sharp rise in July," he said.

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said.

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said. In the last 24 hours, four fresh deaths were reported in Patna district, followed by two in Muzaffarpur and one each in Bhagalpur, Gaya, East Champaran and Purnea. Also read | Bihar to impose 15-day lockdown to curb surge in COVID-19 cases The new fatalities have taken the toll to 167, with Patna accounting for the highest number of 27 deaths, followed by Bhagalpur (14), Darbhanga and Gaya (10 each), Muzaffarpur (eight) and Begusarai, Nalanda, East Champaran and Samastipur (seven each) among others. Patna district reported its biggest single-day spike of 378 cases, raising the total number of those infected to 2,880, according to a bulletin issued by the state health department. The district, which also covers the state capital, has an alarmingly high number of 1,315 active cases, the bulletin said. Other districts reporting fresh cases were Nalanda (93), Muzaffarpur (68), Siwan (63), Bhagalpur (55), Bhojpur (54) and West Champaran (53). In terms of total number of COVID-19 cases, Patna is followed by Bhagalpur (1,318), Begusarai (1,014), Muzaffarpur (968) and Siwan (919). Altogether, 14,101 people have recovered so far. The state's recovery rate is 65.41 per cent, a drop of more than 10 per cent points in a week. More than 5,000 cases have been added to the state's tally in the last four days. In view of a rapid spurt in cases, a 16-day complete lockdown came into force across the state on Thursday. Meanwhile, at a high-level meeting to review the situation, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed satisfaction over the state achieving the target of 10,000 tests per day. He, however, asked Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar to raise the testing capacity to 20,000 tests per day. He said the state's recovery rate was still better than the national average and urged people to avoid panic but remain vigilant and observe norms like wearing of masks and maintaining physical distance. State minister Ashok Choudhary, addressing a webinar on how Bihar was tackling the pandemic, said the recent spurt in the state's COVID tally came in the backdrop of an unprecedented spike on the national level. "We were ready for the challenges as scientists had predicted a sharp rise in July," he said.

Bihar's COVID-19 tally reaches 21,558 with over 1,000 new cases

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against&nbsp;Pakistan's attempt to construct&nbsp;the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts&nbsp;to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project.

Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/domestic-violence-coronavirus-not-the-only-battle-being-fought-by-women-in-pakistan-313812">Also read:&nbsp;Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan</a>

"The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said.

"This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said.

India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said.

The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. 
Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill.

"Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said.

"So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said.

Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.&nbsp;

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation.

India on Thursday said it has strongly protested against Pakistan's attempt to construct the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(PoK) and condemned Islamabad's continued attempts to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation. India's strong protest came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday kicked off construction work at the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan, notwithstanding New Delhi's objection to the China-backed mega project. Asked about the development at the weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India had made its position on it clear earlier and it remains unchanged. Also read: Domestic violence: Coronavirus, not the only battle being fought by women in Pakistan "The entire Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union territory of Ladakh, have been, are, and will be an integral and inalienable part of India. We have strongly protested against the construction of this dam to the government of Pakistan," Srivastava said. "This dam will lead to submergence of a large part of land of the Indian union territories of J&K and Ladakh and we condemn the continuous attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in Indian territories under its illegal occupation," he said. India has also consistently conveyed its protest and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan on all such projects in the Indian territories under Pakistan's illegal occupation where it has no locus standi, the MEA spokesperson said. The Pakistan government in May had signed a whopping Rs 442 billion contract with a joint venture of a Chinese state-run firm and a commercial arm of Pakistan's powerful military for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam. Asked about reports of Pakistan allowing Afghan goods to be exported via Wagah, Srivastava said it was another example of Pakistan's creation of a mirage of goodwill. "Let us be clear on this, Pakistan is not allowing Afghan trucks to carry Afghan goods and is seeking monopolistic transport practices. It is not allowing Afghanistan two-way transit rights as committed under article 3 of the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA)," he said. "So, Pakistan has been following a policy of creating captive markets by denying full transit access to Afghanistan by restricting products from India and other countries. It is failing to fulfil its own commitments under APTTA," Srivastava said. Pakistan has even denied transit of humanitarian grant assistance, including wheat from India, to Afghanistan, he said.

India slams Pakistan over 'continuous attempts' to construct Diamer-Bhasha dam in PoK

With an aim to increase trade and connectivity, India and Bhutan on Wednesday opened a new land trade route. The trade route will link West Bengal's Jaigaon with Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan.

Calling it a "step forward", Indian Envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said," it will facilitate connectivities between our two countries in these COVID 19 times, further strengthening our special relationship."

Land Customs station has been opened at Ahllay, Pasakha by the Indian govt at the request of Bhutanese government as part of the new land route.

Indian envoy said,"Bhutan is India’s closest partner and friend and given the excellent bilateral relationship between our two countries and keeping in view as well the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation, this access to Ahllay should further facilitate trade and commerce between our two countries.”

The new route for Pasakha Industrial Estate in Bhutan will decongest vehicular traffic along the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing route and boost bilateral trade &amp; commerce. It is especially beneficial for movement of heavy vehicles like trucks and industrial raw materials from India into Bhutan.

India is Bhutan's largest trading partner. The bilateral trade stood at Rs 9227 crores in 2018. Bhutan imports mineral products, machinery and mechanical appliances, electrical equipments, base metals, vehicles, vegetable products, plastics and articles from India. The country exports to India electricity, portland cement, dolomite, timber and wood products, potatoes, cardamom and fruit products.

With an aim to increase trade and connectivity, India and Bhutan on Wednesday opened a new land trade route. The trade route will link West Bengal's Jaigaon with Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan.

With an aim to increase trade and connectivity, India and Bhutan on Wednesday opened a new land trade route. The trade route will link West Bengal's Jaigaon with Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan. Calling it a "step forward", Indian Envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said," it will facilitate connectivities between our two countries in these COVID 19 times, further strengthening our special relationship." Land Customs station has been opened at Ahllay, Pasakha by the Indian govt at the request of Bhutanese government as part of the new land route. Indian envoy said,"Bhutan is India’s closest partner and friend and given the excellent bilateral relationship between our two countries and keeping in view as well the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation, this access to Ahllay should further facilitate trade and commerce between our two countries.” The new route for Pasakha Industrial Estate in Bhutan will decongest vehicular traffic along the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing route and boost bilateral trade & commerce. It is especially beneficial for movement of heavy vehicles like trucks and industrial raw materials from India into Bhutan. India is Bhutan's largest trading partner. The bilateral trade stood at Rs 9227 crores in 2018. Bhutan imports mineral products, machinery and mechanical appliances, electrical equipments, base metals, vehicles, vegetable products, plastics and articles from India. The country exports to India electricity, portland cement, dolomite, timber and wood products, potatoes, cardamom and fruit products.

India and Bhutan open new trade route to boost trade

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China,&nbsp;Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics.

PM Oli is relying on religion to push his case&nbsp;in the bid to distract the people of Nepal from his failings. On Monday, Prime Minister Oli said that the real Ayodhya is in Nepal and Lord Ram is Nepali, not Indian.&nbsp;

According to facts, the Hindu mythology says that Lord Ram was Indian and Ayodhya&nbsp;as known to all&nbsp;is in India. However, there's an Ayodhya in Thailand too. The Ramayan has many versions of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and&nbsp;Indonesian.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nepal-kp-sharma-olis-desperate-bid-to-hang-onto-power-313320/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nepal has a Maithili speaking population. There was a time when Nepal was a&nbsp;Sakya kingdom with a&nbsp;much larger territory with parts of eastern India including Bihar extending up to the Bay of Bengal.

Lord Ram is an issue&nbsp;both emotional and politically potent in India. PM Oli's tactic&nbsp;had the desired effect. There was a controversy and after letting it brew for almost 24 hours, the government of Nepal issued a clarification.&nbsp;It was a&nbsp;poor attempt at damage control.

A foreign ministry statement said&nbsp;the prime minister's remarks "are not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears".

But his remarks do debase the sanctity of the office he holds. Nepal's Prime Minister has turned to national pride and religion to save his job and he can think of only one way to survive - blame India for everything. When he felt besieged, Oli blamed India for his mounting troubles. First, he blamed Indians for the growing COVID-19 cases in Nepal. Then, he claimed India was trying to dethrone him.

These attacks backfired as the chorus for his exit grew louder. Now, Oli has come up with a new assertion about Lord Ram and Ayodhya's origins.&nbsp;

Needless to say, India finds these claims laughable. A paranoia is driving the actions of the Nepal prime minister in a bid to prove that he is a bigger nationalist than his rival.

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former prime minister of Nepal famously known as Prachanda has been the&nbsp;leading the rival faction within Nepal's ruling party. He has publicly demanded Oli's resignation. They want Oli to step down. Two leaders are fighting for power in Nepal and&nbsp;Oli is in the minority within his party.

So, he is trying to win the&nbsp;battle to garner public court&nbsp;by blaming India&nbsp;and playing the nationalism card. Oli wants to show that he is more popular than Dahal.

Both leaders are trying to dethrone the other. Oli and Prachanda are now trying to save the government through talks. In recent days, both leaders have held more than six one-on-one meetings.

Another meeting happened today but, they are nowhere close to a power-sharing deal.&nbsp;There could be a showdown on Friday. In four days, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party is supposed to meet. The&nbsp;meeting has been delayed several times.

It was supposed to decide the fate of KP Sharma Oli. Oli has skipped this meeting several times&nbsp;because&nbsp;whenever he has attended it, he has had to face demands for resignation.

Earlier this month,&nbsp;Oli escaped a potential showdown with his party. Just before he came face-to-face with the rival faction, Oli complained of chest pain.&nbsp;He was admitted to a hospital. A day later, he prorogued&nbsp;the budget session of Nepal's parliament potentially avoiding a no-confidence motion from his party members and&nbsp;escaped a floor test.

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics.

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics. PM Oli is relying on religion to push his case in the bid to distract the people of Nepal from his failings. On Monday, Prime Minister Oli said that the real Ayodhya is in Nepal and Lord Ram is Nepali, not Indian. According to facts, the Hindu mythology says that Lord Ram was Indian and Ayodhya as known to all is in India. However, there's an Ayodhya in Thailand too. The Ramayan has many versions of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Indonesian. Nepal has a Maithili speaking population. There was a time when Nepal was a Sakya kingdom with a much larger territory with parts of eastern India including Bihar extending up to the Bay of Bengal. Lord Ram is an issue both emotional and politically potent in India. PM Oli's tactic had the desired effect. There was a controversy and after letting it brew for almost 24 hours, the government of Nepal issued a clarification. It was a poor attempt at damage control. A foreign ministry statement said the prime minister's remarks "are not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears". But his remarks do debase the sanctity of the office he holds. Nepal's Prime Minister has turned to national pride and religion to save his job and he can think of only one way to survive - blame India for everything. When he felt besieged, Oli blamed India for his mounting troubles. First, he blamed Indians for the growing COVID-19 cases in Nepal. Then, he claimed India was trying to dethrone him. These attacks backfired as the chorus for his exit grew louder. Now, Oli has come up with a new assertion about Lord Ram and Ayodhya's origins. Needless to say, India finds these claims laughable. A paranoia is driving the actions of the Nepal prime minister in a bid to prove that he is a bigger nationalist than his rival. Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former prime minister of Nepal famously known as Prachanda has been the leading the rival faction within Nepal's ruling party. He has publicly demanded Oli's resignation. They want Oli to step down. Two leaders are fighting for power in Nepal and Oli is in the minority within his party. So, he is trying to win the battle to garner public court by blaming India and playing the nationalism card. Oli wants to show that he is more popular than Dahal. Both leaders are trying to dethrone the other. Oli and Prachanda are now trying to save the government through talks. In recent days, both leaders have held more than six one-on-one meetings. Another meeting happened today but, they are nowhere close to a power-sharing deal. There could be a showdown on Friday. In four days, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party is supposed to meet. The meeting has been delayed several times. It was supposed to decide the fate of KP Sharma Oli. Oli has skipped this meeting several times because whenever he has attended it, he has had to face demands for resignation. Earlier this month, Oli escaped a potential showdown with his party. Just before he came face-to-face with the rival faction, Oli complained of chest pain. He was admitted to a hospital. A day later, he prorogued the budget session of Nepal's parliament potentially avoiding a no-confidence motion from his party members and escaped a floor test.

Nepal PM Oli blames India whenever he finds himself in a sticky situation

Nepal is desperate to rub India the wrong way. From map fixing to banning Indian channels, the government of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has tried it all.

Now, Oli claims that Hindu deity Lord Ram was a Nepali and not an Indian and that India has set up a fake Ayodhya.

Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and the city of Ayodhya is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh but misleading the world with 'alternative history' is trick from the Chinese playbook and clearly&nbsp;Nepal is learning.

Nepal is not shy to follow the same path.&nbsp; First, Nepal banned the&nbsp;media, muzzled&nbsp;free press and propaganda then it questioned&nbsp;an age-old status quo just to divert attention from the crisis at home.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nepal-prime-minister-oli-says-lord-ram-was-a-nepali-313098/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There is a media war going on in the country. Nepal has accused the India media of unfair reportage and rumour-mongering. Private Indian channels were taken off air on July 9.

The government of KP Sharma Oli confirmed the ban over the weekend adding that the blackout will be in place till Indian channels change their approach.

It is Nepal's indiscriminate use of territorial nationalism villainising of India to score brownie points from China. It may work for a while or it may seem like it's working but the law of diminishing returns has set&nbsp;in and people have come out in protest demanding accountability, not rhetoric.

All of this is happening in Kathmandu plus the prime minister is struggling to keep his chair. There's no political resolution. Now Nepal's Supreme Court has entered the picture.

It has issued a show-cause notice to the government of Nepal. The notice asks a simple question, "Why are Nepalese working in India not included in the foreign employment category?"

Unlike the Nepalese working in other countries, those working in India do not need labour permits or insurance. Nepal's foreign employment act of 2007 rules out discrimination based on the country of employment.

India has never really treated Nepalese workers as foreigners. There are close to 8 million of them working in India. They have access to an open border. They do not need a visa or a work permit. So the current status is actually in favour of Nepal.

Not just its people, but also the government. The Nepali government did not have to provide financial support or other compensation to its citizens working in India.

But recently, a petition was filed by the forum for national building Nepal. The court's show-cause notice was in response to the&nbsp;petition.

The government hasn't replied yet. It is busy saving itself. The rift in the ruling party the Nepal Communist Party remains as wide as ever. There are two sides. One led by prime minister-- KP Sharma Oli, the other by the party's co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Now they're fighting over nationalism. A tug of war to prove who's a bigger nationalist. Dahal has hit out at Oli saying that no one has a monopoly that's because Oli took the entire credit for changing Nepal's map. Nepal depicted Indian territories, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani as its own. The new map was signed into the constitution last month.

Oli claims credit for it and Dahal won't let him. So they continue to fight.&nbsp;This desperation to impress China by burning bridges with India is doing Nepal no good.

Nepal is desperate to rub India the wrong way. From map fixing to banning Indian channels, the government of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has tried it all. Now, Oli claims that Hindu deity Lord Ram was a Nepali and not an Indian and that India has set up a fake Ayodhya.

Nepal is desperate to rub India the wrong way. From map fixing to banning Indian channels, the government of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has tried it all. Now, Oli claims that Hindu deity Lord Ram was a Nepali and not an Indian and that India has set up a fake Ayodhya. Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and the city of Ayodhya is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh but misleading the world with 'alternative history' is trick from the Chinese playbook and clearly Nepal is learning. Nepal is not shy to follow the same path. First, Nepal banned the media, muzzled free press and propaganda then it questioned an age-old status quo just to divert attention from the crisis at home. There is a media war going on in the country. Nepal has accused the India media of unfair reportage and rumour-mongering. Private Indian channels were taken off air on July 9. The government of KP Sharma Oli confirmed the ban over the weekend adding that the blackout will be in place till Indian channels change their approach. It is Nepal's indiscriminate use of territorial nationalism villainising of India to score brownie points from China. It may work for a while or it may seem like it's working but the law of diminishing returns has set in and people have come out in protest demanding accountability, not rhetoric. All of this is happening in Kathmandu plus the prime minister is struggling to keep his chair. There's no political resolution. Now Nepal's Supreme Court has entered the picture. It has issued a show-cause notice to the government of Nepal. The notice asks a simple question, "Why are Nepalese working in India not included in the foreign employment category?" Unlike the Nepalese working in other countries, those working in India do not need labour permits or insurance. Nepal's foreign employment act of 2007 rules out discrimination based on the country of employment. India has never really treated Nepalese workers as foreigners. There are close to 8 million of them working in India. They have access to an open border. They do not need a visa or a work permit. So the current status is actually in favour of Nepal. Not just its people, but also the government. The Nepali government did not have to provide financial support or other compensation to its citizens working in India. But recently, a petition was filed by the forum for national building Nepal. The court's show-cause notice was in response to the petition. The government hasn't replied yet. It is busy saving itself. The rift in the ruling party the Nepal Communist Party remains as wide as ever. There are two sides. One led by prime minister-- KP Sharma Oli, the other by the party's co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Now they're fighting over nationalism. A tug of war to prove who's a bigger nationalist. Dahal has hit out at Oli saying that no one has a monopoly that's because Oli took the entire credit for changing Nepal's map. Nepal depicted Indian territories, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani as its own. The new map was signed into the constitution last month. Oli claims credit for it and Dahal won't let him. So they continue to fight. This desperation to impress China by burning bridges with India is doing Nepal no good.

KP Sharma Oli's claim on Lord Ram: A new weapon to target India and impress China

Various parts of the world have witnessed the NEOWISE comet, also known as C3/2020 F3, and now they will be visible in India for the next 20 days, starting today.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fireworks-astronauts-capture-glimpse-of-neowise-comet-from-space-311670">'Fireworks': Astronauts capture glimpse of Neowise comet from space!</a>

No binoculars or telescopes will be needed to spot the comet as it will be visible to the naked eyes for the coming days. According to the report by Space.com, the comet is set to be visible throughout July and it will be the closest to Earth on July 22.&nbsp;

Neowise is the third comet to be discovered in 2020 and can be visible through naked eyes as per an article on CNET. Atlas and Swan, the other two comets were seen with the same potential but broke up before they could get as bright as Neowise.&nbsp;

In an article on Spaceweather.com, Dr Tony Phillips had written that the comet would develop in the weeks after perihelion or closest approach to the sun. He said: "Northern hemisphere observers would be able to easily see it in the evening sky in mid-July.

Odisha planetarium's Deputy Director Subhendu Pattnaik told ANI: "From July 14, C/2020 F3, a comet discovered on March 27, will be clearly visible in the north-western sky. It will be visible after sunset for around 20 minutes for the next 20 days. People can observe it from naked eyes."

"Around July 30 the comet will be visible near Ursa Major, which is also the Saptarshi Mandal at a height of 40 degrees and will be visible for an hour. After July, it will fade away very fast and will not be visible to the unaided eye. A pair of binoculars or a small telescope will enhance its visibility," added Pattnaik.

Various parts of the world have witnessed the NEOWISE comet, also known as C3/2020 F3, and now they will be visible in India for the next 20 days, starting today.

Various parts of the world have witnessed the NEOWISE comet, also known as C3/2020 F3, and now they will be visible in India for the next 20 days, starting today. Also read: 'Fireworks': Astronauts capture glimpse of Neowise comet from space! No binoculars or telescopes will be needed to spot the comet as it will be visible to the naked eyes for the coming days. According to the report by Space.com, the comet is set to be visible throughout July and it will be the closest to Earth on July 22. Neowise is the third comet to be discovered in 2020 and can be visible through naked eyes as per an article on CNET. Atlas and Swan, the other two comets were seen with the same potential but broke up before they could get as bright as Neowise. In an article on Spaceweather.com, Dr Tony Phillips had written that the comet would develop in the weeks after perihelion or closest approach to the sun. He said: "Northern hemisphere observers would be able to easily see it in the evening sky in mid-July. Odisha planetarium's Deputy Director Subhendu Pattnaik told ANI: "From July 14, C/2020 F3, a comet discovered on March 27, will be clearly visible in the north-western sky. It will be visible after sunset for around 20 minutes for the next 20 days. People can observe it from naked eyes." "Around July 30 the comet will be visible near Ursa Major, which is also the Saptarshi Mandal at a height of 40 degrees and will be visible for an hour. After July, it will fade away very fast and will not be visible to the unaided eye. A pair of binoculars or a small telescope will enhance its visibility," added Pattnaik.

NEOWISE comet: India to witness rare comet for next 20 days; here's how you can watch!

Sri Lankan Navy on Sunday said it had arrested four people, including two from India, off the coast of Thondamanaru in Jaffna for attempting to illegally enter the country.

A patrol vessel from the Northern Naval Command detected a suspicious dinghy boat 11 nautical miles away from Thondamaru and arrested its occupants, one of them an ex-member of the LTTE, the Sri Lanka Navy said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-cancels-election-rallies-over-surge-in-new-virus-cases-312781">Also read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka cancels election rallies over surge in new virus cases</a>

Two of the arrested persons are Sri Lankans who had breached the international maritime boundaries with India off the coast of Point Pedro on Friday.

The boat crossed into Indian territorial waters and brought back two more men to Sri Lanka from India. The two Sri Lankans brought back from India are residents of Welweithurai and Mullathivu.

One of the men has been identified as an ex-member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the statement said.

The other arrested person was tested for COVID-19 in Jaffna hospital as he developed a respiratory difficulty, it said. 
The Navy is on alert to prevent COVID-19 patients to enter Sri Lanka from India, it added.

Sri Lankan Navy on Sunday said it had arrested four people, including two from India, off the coast of Thondamanaru in Jaffna for attempting to illegally enter the country.

Sri Lankan Navy on Sunday said it had arrested four people, including two from India, off the coast of Thondamanaru in Jaffna for attempting to illegally enter the country. A patrol vessel from the Northern Naval Command detected a suspicious dinghy boat 11 nautical miles away from Thondamaru and arrested its occupants, one of them an ex-member of the LTTE, the Sri Lanka Navy said in a statement. Also read: Sri Lanka cancels election rallies over surge in new virus cases Two of the arrested persons are Sri Lankans who had breached the international maritime boundaries with India off the coast of Point Pedro on Friday. The boat crossed into Indian territorial waters and brought back two more men to Sri Lanka from India. The two Sri Lankans brought back from India are residents of Welweithurai and Mullathivu. One of the men has been identified as an ex-member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the statement said. The other arrested person was tested for COVID-19 in Jaffna hospital as he developed a respiratory difficulty, it said. The Navy is on alert to prevent COVID-19 patients to enter Sri Lanka from India, it added.

Sri Lankan Navy arrests 4 people, including 2 from India

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13&nbsp;around 8.45 pm (IST).

Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July.

During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. &nbsp;

The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels."

It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)."

Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India).

The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR.

Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on.

In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13 around 8.45 pm (IST). Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July. During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels." It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)." Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India). The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR. Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on. In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

At UN, India to highlight localisation of SDGs

India has started trade talks with the European Union (EU) and is open to dialogue with the United Kingdom for a free trade agreement, Reuters reported quoting the trade minister on Saturday.

India has started trade talks with the European Union (EU) and is open to dialogue with the United Kingdom for a free trade agreement, Reuters reported quoting the trade minister on Saturday. Piyush Goyal said that Asia's third-largest economy is open to engage with the UK for a preferential trade agreement with the ultimate goal of a free trade agreement between the countries. He said that he is also in dialogue with the European Union's trade commissioner for a deal that could start with a preferential trade agreement. The ultimate goal here too would be to have a free trade agreement, he noted. India currently has no trade deal with the EU. Trade talks between the two regions stalled in 2013.

India in talks with EU for trade deal, open to pact with UK: Piyush Goyal

India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

He was responding to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. Sri Lanka is reeling under a major economic crisis and has requested several countries and international donors, including India to provide debt relief.

Asked about reports of a Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi meeting several leaders in Nepal and whether she was meddling in the country's political turmoil, Srivastava refused to comment. "I have no comment to offer on the internal political situation of Nepal," he said.

Replying to a question on the Enrica Lexie case, Srivastava said there was no delay on the part of the Ministry of External Affairs in informing the Supreme Court and the Kerala government about the verdict of an international tribunal on it.

The tribunal in its judgment said that two Italian marines who shot dead two Indian fishermen cannot be tried in an Indian court. However, it upheld the conduct of the Indian authorities following the incident in 2012.

India accused two Italian marines, Salvatore Girone and Massimiliano Latorre, onboard the MV Enrica Lexie, an Italian flagged oil tanker, of shooting dead the two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel off Kerala in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The incident had taken place off the Kerala coast on February 15, 2012.

India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said. He was responding to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. Sri Lanka is reeling under a major economic crisis and has requested several countries and international donors, including India to provide debt relief. Asked about reports of a Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi meeting several leaders in Nepal and whether she was meddling in the country's political turmoil, Srivastava refused to comment. "I have no comment to offer on the internal political situation of Nepal," he said. Replying to a question on the Enrica Lexie case, Srivastava said there was no delay on the part of the Ministry of External Affairs in informing the Supreme Court and the Kerala government about the verdict of an international tribunal on it. The tribunal in its judgment said that two Italian marines who shot dead two Indian fishermen cannot be tried in an Indian court. However, it upheld the conduct of the Indian authorities following the incident in 2012. India accused two Italian marines, Salvatore Girone and Massimiliano Latorre, onboard the MV Enrica Lexie, an Italian flagged oil tanker, of shooting dead the two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel off Kerala in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The incident had taken place off the Kerala coast on February 15, 2012.

India in talks with Sri Lanka over its request for debt relief: Ministry of External Affairs

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-face-off-chinese-troops-pull-back-2-kms-from-galwan-clash-area-sources-310992">Also read|&nbsp;Chinese troops remove tents, move back from Galwan Valley: Sources</a>

The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries` contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals.

"Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash. 
India`s industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment.

The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pm-narendra-modis-ladakh-visit-gives-a-clear-message-to-beijing-310522">Also read|&nbsp;India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing</a>

The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review.

One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals.

Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy &amp; Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India.

"Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said.

Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance`s TikTok and Tencent`s &lt;0700.HK&gt; WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses` expansion plans for the South Asian market.

Chinese companies` existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory. Also read| Chinese troops remove tents, move back from Galwan Valley: Sources The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries` contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals. "Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash. India`s industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment. The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns. Also read| India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review. One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals. Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy & Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India. "Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said. Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance`s TikTok and Tencent`s <0700.HK> WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses` expansion plans for the South Asian market. Chinese companies` existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

India reviewing around 50 investment proposals from Chinese firms - sources

India on Monday participated in a peace meeting hosted by Afghan government during which it emphasized that putting an end to terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens is essential for durable peace in Afghanistan.

India participated in a meeting of regional partners on Afghanistan - `Strengthening Consensus for Peace`, according to a Ministry of External Affairs` statement, Joint Secretary (PAI) JP Singh represented India during the meet.

The meeting was chaired by President Ghani. As many as 20 countries and international organisations including the United Nations participated in the meeting. During the meeting, issues concerning Afghan peace and reconciliation process and support of the regional partners for an independent, unified, democratic and sovereign Afghanistan were discussed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-will-cooperate-to-bring-back-peace-in-afghanistan-khalilzad-310750">Also read|&nbsp;Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad</a>

"India expressed support for a constitutional order in Afghanistan, which would protect the interest of all sections of Afghan society, including women, children and minorities. India highlighted the fact that in order to achieve durable peace in Afghanistan, putting an end to terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens is an essential pre-requisite," MEA said in the statement.

India, one of the largest development partners of Afghanistan, with a commitment of more than USD 3 billion, reiterated the importance of an inclusive, Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, Afghan - controlled peace and reconciliation process.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending COVID 19 assistance to Afghanistan and for hosting SAARC leaders` meeting for coordinated efforts in the region.

"President Ashraf Ghani thanked Prime Minister Modi for extending COVID 19 assistance to Afghanistan and for hosting SAARC leaders` meeting for coordinated efforts in the region," the statement read.

India on Monday participated in a peace meeting hosted by Afghan government during which it emphasized that putting an end to terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens is essential for durable peace in Afghanistan.

India on Monday participated in a peace meeting hosted by Afghan government during which it emphasized that putting an end to terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens is essential for durable peace in Afghanistan. India participated in a meeting of regional partners on Afghanistan - `Strengthening Consensus for Peace`, according to a Ministry of External Affairs` statement, Joint Secretary (PAI) JP Singh represented India during the meet. The meeting was chaired by President Ghani. As many as 20 countries and international organisations including the United Nations participated in the meeting. During the meeting, issues concerning Afghan peace and reconciliation process and support of the regional partners for an independent, unified, democratic and sovereign Afghanistan were discussed. Also read| Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad "India expressed support for a constitutional order in Afghanistan, which would protect the interest of all sections of Afghan society, including women, children and minorities. India highlighted the fact that in order to achieve durable peace in Afghanistan, putting an end to terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens is an essential pre-requisite," MEA said in the statement. India, one of the largest development partners of Afghanistan, with a commitment of more than USD 3 billion, reiterated the importance of an inclusive, Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, Afghan - controlled peace and reconciliation process. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending COVID 19 assistance to Afghanistan and for hosting SAARC leaders` meeting for coordinated efforts in the region. "President Ashraf Ghani thanked Prime Minister Modi for extending COVID 19 assistance to Afghanistan and for hosting SAARC leaders` meeting for coordinated efforts in the region," the statement read.

Putting end to terror sanctuaries essential for Afghan peace: India

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded&nbsp;more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by&nbsp;state governments.

Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's&nbsp;Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.8 lakh cases, whereas India crossed the 6.9 lakh mark.

India is now the third worst-affected country in the world, preceded only by Brazil and the US on the second and first respectively.

On Sunday morning, Indian government reported&nbsp;the highest single-day jump of 24,850 COVID-19 cases, and 613 deaths.

The total number of coronavirus cases, on Sunday morning, were 6,73,165 cases of which 2,44,814 patients are active cases. India`s cured/discharged patients crossed the 4 lakh mark with 4,09,082 patients cured/discharged and while one patient has migrated.

India's worst-affected state, Maharashtra, reported 6,555 new cases and 151 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 2,06,619 and death toll to 8,822. Number of active cases stands at 86,040.&nbsp;

Maharashtra's epicentre, Mumbai, reported&nbsp;1,311 new&nbsp;cases and 69 deaths, taking total number of cases to 84,125 including 55,883 recoveries and 4,896 deaths, as reported by&nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

Delhi reported&nbsp;63 deaths and 2,244 new positive cases today. Total number of positive cases stands at 99,444 including 71,339 recovered/discharged/migrated, 25,038 active cases and 3,067 deaths.

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Kerala recorded 225 new COVID-19 cases today, taking active cases to 2,228. A total of 3,174 patients have recovered from the disease so far: State Health Minister KK Shailaja (file photo) <a href="https://t.co/j8jZugCs5N">pic.twitter.com/j8jZugCs5N</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1279784353346666496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu crossed 1 lakh mark as the state recorded 4,150 fresh COVID-19 cases and 60 deaths today, taking total cases to 1,11,151 and death toll to 1,510. Number of active cases stands at 46,860.

Punjab reported 175 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 6,283 including 4,408 recoveries and 164 deaths.

Uttar Pradesh reported 1,155 COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 8,161 and death toll to 785.

A total of&nbsp;1,925 cases and 37 deaths were recorded in Karnataka in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 23,474 and death toll to 372. Number of active cases stands at 13,251.

(With inputs from agencies)

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by state governments. Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by state governments. Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.8 lakh cases, whereas India crossed the 6.9 lakh mark. India is now the third worst-affected country in the world, preceded only by Brazil and the US on the second and first respectively. On Sunday morning, Indian government reported the highest single-day jump of 24,850 COVID-19 cases, and 613 deaths. The total number of coronavirus cases, on Sunday morning, were 6,73,165 cases of which 2,44,814 patients are active cases. India`s cured/discharged patients crossed the 4 lakh mark with 4,09,082 patients cured/discharged and while one patient has migrated. India's worst-affected state, Maharashtra, reported 6,555 new cases and 151 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 2,06,619 and death toll to 8,822. Number of active cases stands at 86,040. Maharashtra's epicentre, Mumbai, reported 1,311 new cases and 69 deaths, taking total number of cases to 84,125 including 55,883 recoveries and 4,896 deaths, as reported by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Delhi reported 63 deaths and 2,244 new positive cases today. Total number of positive cases stands at 99,444 including 71,339 recovered/discharged/migrated, 25,038 active cases and 3,067 deaths. Kerala recorded 225 new COVID-19 cases today, taking active cases to 2,228. A total of 3,174 patients have recovered from the disease so far: State Health Minister KK Shailaja (file photo) pic.twitter.com/j8jZugCs5N — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2020 × Tamil Nadu crossed 1 lakh mark as the state recorded 4,150 fresh COVID-19 cases and 60 deaths today, taking total cases to 1,11,151 and death toll to 1,510. Number of active cases stands at 46,860. Punjab reported 175 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 6,283 including 4,408 recoveries and 164 deaths. Uttar Pradesh reported 1,155 COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 8,161 and death toll to 785. A total of 1,925 cases and 37 deaths were recorded in Karnataka in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 23,474 and death toll to 372. Number of active cases stands at 13,251. (With inputs from agencies)

India COVID-19 tally surpasses Russia; third worst-affected country now

India has recorded 442 deaths and the highest single-day spike of 22,771 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Positive cases stand at 648315 including 235433 active cases, 394227 cured/discharged/migrated and 18655 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

India has recorded 442 deaths and the highest single-day spike of 22,771 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Positive cases stand at 648315 including 235433 active cases, 394227 cured/discharged/migrated and 18655 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The Government of India (GoI) said that recovery rate has further improved to 60.80%. The recoveries/deaths ratio is 95.48% : 4.52% now, the GoI said. Meanwhile, 204 new positive cases and 3 deaths have been reported in Rajasthan till 10:30 am today. The total number of cases in the state stands at 19,256 including 3,461 active cases and 443 deaths, according to State Health Department. Odisha reported 495 new positive cases. Total positive cases in the State stands at 8601 including 2853 active cases and 5705 recovered, according to Information & Public Relations, Department Government of Odisha.

India records highest single-day spike of 22,771 new COVID-19 cases

India has lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control and the International Border with an aim to push terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir, official sources said on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

They said 14 Indians have been killed and 88 sustained injuries in more than 2,432 incidents of unprovoked ceasefire violations carried out by Pakistani forces till June this year.<o:p></o:p>

The unprovoked ceasefire violations are in contravention of the 2003 ceasefire understanding between the two countries, the sources said.<o:p></o:p>

They said India has also conveyed its "strong concerns" at the continued support being extended by the Pakistani forces to cross border infiltration of terrorists, including by providing covering fire.<o:p></o:p>

"We have registered our strong protest at the continued unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Boundary," said a source.<o:p></o:p>

Despite these concerns having been shared, including through the channel of Director Generals Military Operations, the Pakistani forces have not stopped such activities, the sources said.<o:p></o:p>

India has lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control and the International Border with an aim to push terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir, official sources said on Friday.

India has lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control and the International Border with an aim to push terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir, official sources said on Friday. They said 14 Indians have been killed and 88 sustained injuries in more than 2,432 incidents of unprovoked ceasefire violations carried out by Pakistani forces till June this year. The unprovoked ceasefire violations are in contravention of the 2003 ceasefire understanding between the two countries, the sources said. They said India has also conveyed its "strong concerns" at the continued support being extended by the Pakistani forces to cross border infiltration of terrorists, including by providing covering fire. "We have registered our strong protest at the continued unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Boundary," said a source. Despite these concerns having been shared, including through the channel of Director Generals Military Operations, the Pakistani forces have not stopped such activities, the sources said.

India conveys protest to Pakistan over unprovoked ceasefire violations along LoC

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly.

"India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-india-of-attacking-pakistan-stock-exchange-offers-no-evidence-309702">Also read:&nbsp;Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence</a>

"We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added.

The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems. The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly. "India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks. Also read: Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence "We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added. The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India. Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

MEA says Pak can't blame India for domestic problems; counters Khan for calling Laden as 'martyr'

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories.

Last week, Pakistan announced that general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on August 18.

"We completely reject attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes to the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Such cosmetic exercises are intended to camouflage Pakistan's illegal occupation of Indian territories," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/speaker-of-pakistans-punjab-assembly-speaks-against-building-hindu-temple-calls-it-against-spirit-of-islam-310303">Also read:&nbsp;Speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly speaks against building Hindu temple, calls it against spirit of Islam</a>

"We call upon Pakistan to vacate all Indian territories that are under their illegal occupation," he said. Srivastava was replying to a question on the issue at an online media briefing.

In a recent ruling, the Pakistan Supreme Court allowed Islamabad to amend a 2018 administrative order to conduct general elections in the region. The Gilgit-Baltistan Order of 2018 provided for administrative changes, including authorising the prime minister of Pakistan to legislate on an array of subjects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-extends-support-to-nepal-as-pakistan-struggles-with-its-own-problems-310301">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems</a>

In May, India had issued a demarche to a senior Pakistani diplomat here and lodged a strong protest over the apex court ruling.

India also clearly conveyed to Pakistan that the entire union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of the country.

Srivastava also rejected Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's allegations that there was an India link to the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange in Karachi on Monday.

Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said such cosmetic exercises are intended to "camouflage" Islamabad's "illegal" occupation of Indian territories. Last week, Pakistan announced that general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on August 18. "We completely reject attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes to the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Such cosmetic exercises are intended to camouflage Pakistan's illegal occupation of Indian territories," Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said. Also read: Speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly speaks against building Hindu temple, calls it against spirit of Islam "We call upon Pakistan to vacate all Indian territories that are under their illegal occupation," he said. Srivastava was replying to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. In a recent ruling, the Pakistan Supreme Court allowed Islamabad to amend a 2018 administrative order to conduct general elections in the region. The Gilgit-Baltistan Order of 2018 provided for administrative changes, including authorising the prime minister of Pakistan to legislate on an array of subjects. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems In May, India had issued a demarche to a senior Pakistani diplomat here and lodged a strong protest over the apex court ruling. India also clearly conveyed to Pakistan that the entire union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of the country. Srivastava also rejected Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's allegations that there was an India link to the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange in Karachi on Monday. Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

India slams Pak's announcement of holding polls in Gilgit-Baltistan; terms it cosmetic exercise

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-extends-support-to-nepal-as-pakistan-struggles-with-its-own-problems-310301" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems</a>

How then does one deal with such a compulsive bully?

They have to either submit and become an abettor as Nepal and Pakistan have or you stand up and treat the bully the way it should be --- like India is doing.

India's determined actions have emboldened another nation to take a stand.&nbsp;One of China's closest ally in south-east Asia is pointing fingers at Beijing, Myanmar.

First, the country said no to Chinese loans. This was last month.&nbsp;Now reports say that Myanmar is blaming China for arming insurgent groups in the country.

The commander-in-chief of the Myanmar armed forces senior general Min Aung Hlaing gave an interview recently. It was aired on Zvezda, a Russian state-run TV channel.

Hlaing said: "A country may be able to suppress terrorist organizations on its soil. But in cases when there are strong forces behind that terrorist organization, the country alone may not be able to handle it."

He did not take any names. But the mention of "strong forces" is widely being seen as a reference to China.

By terrorist organizations, the Myanmar Army Chief was referring primarily to the Arakan army. The largest Buddhist insurgent group in Myanmar. It has been active along Myanmar's border with China.

Arakan insurgents have been caught with Chinese weapons time and again. So have members of several other ethnic militias.

In November 2019, the Myanmar army busted a huge cache of weapons from an insurgent group.

Most of the weapons seized were Chinese! The headlines are on your screens. The Myanmar army raised the issue with China. Beijing vehemently denied arming rebel groups.&nbsp;

The issue soon got brushed under the carpet. But suspicions about China's intentions only grew.

Now over the months, these suspicions have taken many forms. Reports say the Myanmar army has now sensed a pattern of how these insurgents groups operate.

The Arakan army for example. It hinders every development project on the Myanmar-Mizoram border. It has a history of taking Indian construction workers hostage.

But when it comes to China, the same insurgent group lays down its arms. The Arakan army does not disrupt any Chinese development projects along Myanmar's border.

The word is that China is using its influence on this insurgent group to ensure a smooth implementation of belt and road projects. Beijing is desperate to push the China-Myanmar economic corridor.

A project that will give China a strategic opening into the Bay of Bengal and leverage over India. To ensure its complete China is using the ethnic militia to keep other countries away from Myanmar --- and threaten the Myanmar government.

It is supplying funds and sophisticated weaponry to insurgents in Myanmar. One report says --- that 95 per cent of the total funding of the Arakan army comes from China.

The modern weapons it uses -- have Chinese written all over them. The agenda is loud and clear. China wants Myanmar to become another vassal state. If diplomacy &amp; debt traps fail. Terror will be China's tool to achieve its motives.

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante.

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems How then does one deal with such a compulsive bully? They have to either submit and become an abettor as Nepal and Pakistan have or you stand up and treat the bully the way it should be --- like India is doing. India's determined actions have emboldened another nation to take a stand. One of China's closest ally in south-east Asia is pointing fingers at Beijing, Myanmar. First, the country said no to Chinese loans. This was last month. Now reports say that Myanmar is blaming China for arming insurgent groups in the country. The commander-in-chief of the Myanmar armed forces senior general Min Aung Hlaing gave an interview recently. It was aired on Zvezda, a Russian state-run TV channel. Hlaing said: "A country may be able to suppress terrorist organizations on its soil. But in cases when there are strong forces behind that terrorist organization, the country alone may not be able to handle it." He did not take any names. But the mention of "strong forces" is widely being seen as a reference to China. By terrorist organizations, the Myanmar Army Chief was referring primarily to the Arakan army. The largest Buddhist insurgent group in Myanmar. It has been active along Myanmar's border with China. Arakan insurgents have been caught with Chinese weapons time and again. So have members of several other ethnic militias. In November 2019, the Myanmar army busted a huge cache of weapons from an insurgent group. Most of the weapons seized were Chinese! The headlines are on your screens. The Myanmar army raised the issue with China. Beijing vehemently denied arming rebel groups. The issue soon got brushed under the carpet. But suspicions about China's intentions only grew. Now over the months, these suspicions have taken many forms. Reports say the Myanmar army has now sensed a pattern of how these insurgents groups operate. The Arakan army for example. It hinders every development project on the Myanmar-Mizoram border. It has a history of taking Indian construction workers hostage. But when it comes to China, the same insurgent group lays down its arms. The Arakan army does not disrupt any Chinese development projects along Myanmar's border. The word is that China is using its influence on this insurgent group to ensure a smooth implementation of belt and road projects. Beijing is desperate to push the China-Myanmar economic corridor. A project that will give China a strategic opening into the Bay of Bengal and leverage over India. To ensure its complete China is using the ethnic militia to keep other countries away from Myanmar --- and threaten the Myanmar government. It is supplying funds and sophisticated weaponry to insurgents in Myanmar. One report says --- that 95 per cent of the total funding of the Arakan army comes from China. The modern weapons it uses -- have Chinese written all over them. The agenda is loud and clear. China wants Myanmar to become another vassal state. If diplomacy & debt traps fail. Terror will be China's tool to achieve its motives.

Myanmar continues to speak up against China; holds responsible for Arakan insurgents

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates&nbsp;India's role as positive in Afghanistan --&nbsp;as the "largest donor" to the country.

Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, &nbsp;Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process."

On the issue of counter-terror, the report said, "India works with regional state actors, the Afghan Government&nbsp;and Afghan power brokers to prevent transnational terrorist safe havens, and maintain access to Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asian markets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/want-peaceful-democratic-afghanistan-with-rights-for-women-minorities-khalid-noor-310052">Also read| Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor</a>

At $3 billion, India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan since 2001. Indian aid to Afghanistan focuses primarily on four main categories-- humanitarian assistance, &nbsp;major infrastructure projects, small and community-based projects and education and capacity development.&nbsp;

But the report warned, "A significant deterioration of security conditions in Afghanistan, however, may adversely affect the ability of India to provide aid."

India has built the Afghan parliament, the India Afghan friendship dam in Herat province and provided scholarship to Afghan students. To increase connectivity, India has started the India-Afghanistan air corridor and via Chabahar provided connectivity via Iran. India also committed to taking up 116 High Impact Community Development Projects in 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

These important investments will be in the areas of education, health, agriculture, irrigation, drinking water, renewable energy, flood control, micro-hydro power, sports and administrative infrastructure.

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates India's role as positive in Afghanistan -- as the "largest donor" to the country. Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process.

US Department of Defence or the Pentagon sees and appreciates India's role as positive in Afghanistan -- as the "largest donor" to the country. Highlighting the "traditionally" strong ties India has with Afghanistan, Pentagon in its report on Afghanistan said, "The Indian government does not support the Taliban politically and continues to support the Afghan government" and "India has reiterated its support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled peace process." On the issue of counter-terror, the report said, "India works with regional state actors, the Afghan Government and Afghan power brokers to prevent transnational terrorist safe havens, and maintain access to Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asian markets." Also read| Want peaceful, democratic Afghanistan with rights for women, minorities: Khalid Noor At $3 billion, India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan since 2001. Indian aid to Afghanistan focuses primarily on four main categories-- humanitarian assistance, major infrastructure projects, small and community-based projects and education and capacity development. But the report warned, "A significant deterioration of security conditions in Afghanistan, however, may adversely affect the ability of India to provide aid." India has built the Afghan parliament, the India Afghan friendship dam in Herat province and provided scholarship to Afghan students. To increase connectivity, India has started the India-Afghanistan air corridor and via Chabahar provided connectivity via Iran. India also committed to taking up 116 High Impact Community Development Projects in 34 provinces of Afghanistan. These important investments will be in the areas of education, health, agriculture, irrigation, drinking water, renewable energy, flood control, micro-hydro power, sports and administrative infrastructure.

Pentagon sees India's role as positive in Afghanistan

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane will visit Leh on Friday and will review the security situation in Eastern Ladakh in view of the Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/with-indias-tiktok-ban-chinese-parent-company-bytedance-could-lose-up-to-6-billion-309991" hreflang="en">With India's TikTok ban, Chinese parent company ByteDance could lose up to $6 billion</a>

Last month on June 25, Naravane had visited the forward locations in Eastern Ladakh and later briefed important security functionaries including the Prime Minister, National Security Advisor and the Chief of Defence Staff about the ground situation in the Ladakh sector.

The situation at the India-China border remains tense after 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent face-off in Galwan valley on June 15-16 when Chinese troops attempted to unilaterally change the status quo during the de-escalation.

India and China have been involved in talks to ease the ongoing border tensions since last month.

India and China have emphasised the need for an expeditious, phased and stepwise de-escalation of tension along the Line of Actual Control "as a priority" during the third commander level talks between the People`s Liberation Army and Indian Army held at Chushul, Ladakh, on June 30, sources said.

India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the situation along the LAC in India-China border areas.

This was third senior military commander level engagement in Chushul held to discuss issues related to disengagement at the faceoff sites along the LAC and de-escalation from the border areas.

The second round of talks took place in Moldo on the Chinese side of the LAC where the two sides reached a mutual consensus to disengage in the Eastern Ladakh sector.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane will visit Leh on Friday and will review the security situation in Eastern Ladakh in view of the Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane will visit Leh on Friday and will review the security situation in Eastern Ladakh in view of the Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Also read: With India's TikTok ban, Chinese parent company ByteDance could lose up to $6 billion Last month on June 25, Naravane had visited the forward locations in Eastern Ladakh and later briefed important security functionaries including the Prime Minister, National Security Advisor and the Chief of Defence Staff about the ground situation in the Ladakh sector. The situation at the India-China border remains tense after 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives in a violent face-off in Galwan valley on June 15-16 when Chinese troops attempted to unilaterally change the status quo during the de-escalation. India and China have been involved in talks to ease the ongoing border tensions since last month. India and China have emphasised the need for an expeditious, phased and stepwise de-escalation of tension along the Line of Actual Control "as a priority" during the third commander level talks between the People`s Liberation Army and Indian Army held at Chushul, Ladakh, on June 30, sources said. India and China have been engaged in discussions through established military and diplomatic channels to address the situation along the LAC in India-China border areas. This was third senior military commander level engagement in Chushul held to discuss issues related to disengagement at the faceoff sites along the LAC and de-escalation from the border areas. The second round of talks took place in Moldo on the Chinese side of the LAC where the two sides reached a mutual consensus to disengage in the Eastern Ladakh sector.

India-China standoff: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Army chief to visit Leh on Friday to review LAC situation

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