Twitter on Tuesday announced disappearing tweets feature 'Fleets' in India. Once selected, the feature will make tweets disappear after 24 hours and have no retweets, likes or public comments.

Twitter on Tuesday announced disappearing tweets feature 'Fleets' in India. Once selected, the feature will make tweets disappear after 24 hours and have no retweets, likes or public comments. The tool is currently under the testing phase in Brazil and Italy. Fleets will be available for everyone in India on Twitter for iOS and Android in the coming days in updated app versions, the company said in a statement. "We are excited to bring the Fleets experiment to India and make it one of the first three countries in the world to experience this new product. From the test in India, we`ll learn how adding a new mode of conversation changes the way Indians engage on Twitter," said Manish Maheshwari, MD, Twitter India. Like tweets, Fleets are based primarily on text, but people can include videos, GIFs or photos in them. To create a new Fleet, tap your avatar on the top left of your profile to create a new Fleet, start typing or tap a media icon to add photo/s or video/s and and tap `Fleet` to post. People can see who`s seen their Fleet by looking underneath a post. They can tap on someone`s avatar to see what the person has shared since they last were on Twitter. Alternatively, one can also find an account`s Fleets by looking on their profile page. "It`ll be interesting to see if it further amplifies the diversity of usage by allowing people to share what they`re thinking in a way that is light-touch and light-hearted," said Maheshwari. To view someone`s Fleet, one can tap an avatar to see their latest Fleets. To engage with your followers on Fleets, buttons to reply and react are available when Direct Messages (DMs) are open. "Followers can reply privately via DM or quickly react with an emoji, and continue the conversation privately in DMs. Replies and reactions will appear in DMs along with the Fleet they are responding to," said Twitter. "We want people to be able to have conversations on Twitter in different ways, with less pressure and more control. That`s why we`re testing a way to share their fleeting thoughts," said Mo Al Adham, Twitter Group Product Manager. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter starts testing disappearing tweets feature 'Fleets' in India

Ahead of the next round of military-level talks scheduled to start this week, Indian and Chinese troops have disengaged on the ground at multiple locations on Line of Actual Control, according to a report.

Quoting government sources an ANI report said that talks between the two armies are going to be held this week at multiple locations including Patroling point 14 (Galwan area), Patrolling point 15, and Hot Springs area.

The Chinese Army has pulled back its troops from the Galwan valley, PP-15 and Hot Springs in Eastern Ladakh area by 2 to 2.5 kilometres ahead of talks in the next few days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agreed-to-work-together-to-maintain-peace-in-border-chinas-foreign-ministry-304333">India, China agreed to work together to maintain peace in border: China's foreign ministry</a>

The sources said to reciprocate the Chinese disengagement, the Indian side also brought back some of its troops and vehicles from these areas.

The talks are being held on these points at the battalion commander level and they have had hotline talks with their counterparts.

Indian military teams are already in Chushul to engage the Chinese in talks and are coordinating with the senior officials in this regard.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-face-off-exposes-chinas-two-facedness-304316">India-China border face-off exposes China's two-facedness</a>

Hua Chunying, spokesperson of China's Foreign Ministry on Monday said China and India have maintained close communication on resolving border issues through diplomatic and military channels.

Chunying said border areas situation were discussed during the meeting between Chinese and Indian military officials on Jun 6.&nbsp;

''India and China agreed to work together to maintain peace and tranquillity in border areas to create a favourable atmosphere for the stable development of bilateral relations,'' she noted.&nbsp;

Ahead of the next round of military-level talks scheduled to start this week, Indian and Chinese troops have disengaged on the ground at multiple locations on Line of Actual Control, according to a report.

Ahead of the next round of military-level talks scheduled to start this week, Indian and Chinese troops have disengaged on the ground at multiple locations on Line of Actual Control, according to a report. Quoting government sources an ANI report said that talks between the two armies are going to be held this week at multiple locations including Patroling point 14 (Galwan area), Patrolling point 15, and Hot Springs area. The Chinese Army has pulled back its troops from the Galwan valley, PP-15 and Hot Springs in Eastern Ladakh area by 2 to 2.5 kilometres ahead of talks in the next few days. Also read: India, China agreed to work together to maintain peace in border: China's foreign ministry The sources said to reciprocate the Chinese disengagement, the Indian side also brought back some of its troops and vehicles from these areas. The talks are being held on these points at the battalion commander level and they have had hotline talks with their counterparts. Indian military teams are already in Chushul to engage the Chinese in talks and are coordinating with the senior officials in this regard. Also read: India-China border face-off exposes China's two-facedness Hua Chunying, spokesperson of China's Foreign Ministry on Monday said China and India have maintained close communication on resolving border issues through diplomatic and military channels. Chunying said border areas situation were discussed during the meeting between Chinese and Indian military officials on Jun 6. ''India and China agreed to work together to maintain peace and tranquillity in border areas to create a favourable atmosphere for the stable development of bilateral relations,'' she noted.

Indian, Chinese troops disengage on LAC ahead of talks; China troops retreat by 2-2.5 km

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region.

Indian Government sources told WION, "we have not heard anything to our proposal for coordinated locust control operations along the border and even to facilitate supply of pesticide."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-deploys-thousands-of-army-troops-to-battle-locust-invasion-303936">Also watch:&nbsp;Pak deploys thousands of army troops to battle locust invasion</a>

Earlier today, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Aisha Farooqui, in response to the question Indian offer to jointly deal with locust crisis said India is "cooperating with all regional countries to fight desert locust invasion under a forum administered by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)...SWAC - Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in Southwest Asia"

Adding, "Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with all SWAC member states, including India, in combating Desert Locust outbreak" and "The cooperation is “fruitful” in exchanging information in the bordering areas of Pakistan and India."

Sources reacting to it said, "Seems it is usual issue of saying something and do something else. They remain reticent. Seems they want to underplay the problem that is there in Pakistan."

India and Iran are already cooperating to deal with the crisis with New Delhi supplying with pesticide. The 2019–20 locust infestation has impacted more than 10 countries in Africa and South Asia and Iran, India and Pakistan are currently affected by the crisis.

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region.

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region. Indian Government sources told WION, "we have not heard anything to our proposal for coordinated locust control operations along the border and even to facilitate supply of pesticide." Also watch: Pak deploys thousands of army troops to battle locust invasion Earlier today, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Aisha Farooqui, in response to the question Indian offer to jointly deal with locust crisis said India is "cooperating with all regional countries to fight desert locust invasion under a forum administered by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)...SWAC - Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in Southwest Asia" Adding, "Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with all SWAC member states, including India, in combating Desert Locust outbreak" and "The cooperation is “fruitful” in exchanging information in the bordering areas of Pakistan and India." Sources reacting to it said, "Seems it is usual issue of saying something and do something else. They remain reticent. Seems they want to underplay the problem that is there in Pakistan." India and Iran are already cooperating to deal with the crisis with New Delhi supplying with pesticide. The 2019–20 locust infestation has impacted more than 10 countries in Africa and South Asia and Iran, India and Pakistan are currently affected by the crisis.

Pakistan yet to respond on Indian suggestion on jointly dealing with locust crisis

The Pakistan Army on Saturday claimed to have shot down an "Indian spying quadcopter" allegedly intruding across the Line of Control (LoC). Military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar said that the mini copter violated the country's airspace in Khanjar sector of the LoC.

"The quadcopter had intruded 500 metres on Pakistan's side of the LoC,"&nbsp;he said in a statement.

The spokesman claimed that it was the eighth Indian quadcopter to be shot down by the Pakistan Army troops this year.

Last month, two such quadcopters were downed, the first on May 27 and the second on May 29 after they allegedly intruded deep inside the Pakistani territory, he said. India has dismissed previous such claims by the Pakistan Army.

The ties between the two nations strained following the Balakot strike when the Indian Air Force jets bombed a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan on February 26 last year to avenge the killing of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan retaliated on February 27 by attempting to target Indian military installations.

The ties further nose-dived after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir in August last year. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic relations with India and expelled the Indian High Commissioner.

The Pakistan Army on Saturday claimed to have shot down an "Indian spying quadcopter" allegedly intruding across the Line of Control (LoC). Military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar said that the mini copter violated the country's airspace in Khanjar sector of the LoC.

The Pakistan Army on Saturday claimed to have shot down an "Indian spying quadcopter" allegedly intruding across the Line of Control (LoC). Military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar said that the mini copter violated the country's airspace in Khanjar sector of the LoC. "The quadcopter had intruded 500 metres on Pakistan's side of the LoC," he said in a statement. The spokesman claimed that it was the eighth Indian quadcopter to be shot down by the Pakistan Army troops this year. Last month, two such quadcopters were downed, the first on May 27 and the second on May 29 after they allegedly intruded deep inside the Pakistani territory, he said. India has dismissed previous such claims by the Pakistan Army. The ties between the two nations strained following the Balakot strike when the Indian Air Force jets bombed a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan on February 26 last year to avenge the killing of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan retaliated on February 27 by attempting to target Indian military installations. The ties further nose-dived after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir in August last year. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic relations with India and expelled the Indian High Commissioner.

Pak army claims to shoot down 'Indian spying quadcopter' along LoC

India reported a record 9,887 new coronavirus cases in one day on Saturday and overtook Italy as the world's sixth-biggest outbreak, two days before the relaxing of a lockdown with the reopening of malls, restaurants and places of worship.

With its total number of cases rising to more than 236,000, India now has fewer infections than only the United States, Brazil, Russia, Britain and Spain, according to a Reuters tally.

However, India's toll of deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, is 6,642, small compared with those other countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-crosses-23-lakh-mark-with-9887-new-cases-and-6642-deaths-303758">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: India crosses 2.3 lakh mark with 9,887 new cases and 6,642 deaths</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, anxious to jump-start an economy crippled by the epidemic and put millions of people back to work, is easing its lockdown of the 1.3 billion population imposed in March, which the government says helped avoid an exponential rise in cases.

Restrictions will be loosened from Monday but some experts are worried it is too soon. Giridhar R Babu, epidemiologist at the Public Health Foundation of India, in particular questioned the re-opening of religious places.

"We can survive and sustain the gains without ... opening up religious places for sometime," Babu said on Twitter. 
Concerts, sporting events and political rallies are still banned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-nearly-50000-coronavirus-cases-mumbai-has-more-than-one-challenge-303731">Also read:&nbsp;With nearly 50,000 coronavirus cases, Mumbai has more than one challenge</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO) said late on Friday India's lockdown had helped it dampen down transmission of the disease, but there was a risk the cases could rise again.

"As India and in other large countries open up and people begin to move there is always a risk of the disease bouncing back up," Dr Mike Ryan, head of WHO's emergencies programme, told a news conference in Geneva.

People visiting places of worship will be asked to wash their hands and feet, and there will be no distribution of food offerings, sprinkling of holy water or touching of idols and holy books.

India reported a record 9,887 new coronavirus cases in one day on Saturday and overtook Italy as the world's sixth-biggest outbreak, two days before the relaxing of a lockdown with the reopening of malls, restaurants and places of worship.

India reported a record 9,887 new coronavirus cases in one day on Saturday and overtook Italy as the world's sixth-biggest outbreak, two days before the relaxing of a lockdown with the reopening of malls, restaurants and places of worship. With its total number of cases rising to more than 236,000, India now has fewer infections than only the United States, Brazil, Russia, Britain and Spain, according to a Reuters tally. However, India's toll of deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, is 6,642, small compared with those other countries. Also read: COVID 19: India crosses 2.3 lakh mark with 9,887 new cases and 6,642 deaths Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, anxious to jump-start an economy crippled by the epidemic and put millions of people back to work, is easing its lockdown of the 1.3 billion population imposed in March, which the government says helped avoid an exponential rise in cases. Restrictions will be loosened from Monday but some experts are worried it is too soon. Giridhar R Babu, epidemiologist at the Public Health Foundation of India, in particular questioned the re-opening of religious places. "We can survive and sustain the gains without ... opening up religious places for sometime," Babu said on Twitter. Concerts, sporting events and political rallies are still banned. Also read: With nearly 50,000 coronavirus cases, Mumbai has more than one challenge The World Health Organization (WHO) said late on Friday India's lockdown had helped it dampen down transmission of the disease, but there was a risk the cases could rise again. "As India and in other large countries open up and people begin to move there is always a risk of the disease bouncing back up," Dr Mike Ryan, head of WHO's emergencies programme, told a news conference in Geneva. People visiting places of worship will be asked to wash their hands and feet, and there will be no distribution of food offerings, sprinkling of holy water or touching of idols and holy books.

COVID 19: India overtakes Italy's coronavirus tally a week after Unlock 1.0

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases. The state currently has 11345 active cases and has seen 208 deaths, of which a large number have been senior citizens and those with co-morbidities.&nbsp;

The state has been witnessing over 1000 cases daily over the last four days, with over 80 per cent&nbsp;of the cases coming from Chennai alone. Discrepancy in data collection by the Private labs in Chennai has led the Chennai Corporation to issue a new set of instructions to collect personal information of the individuals whose samples are being taken. The Civic body has stated that the labs are required to collect full address details including door number, street name, locality, pin code and also the persons Aadhaar number.&nbsp;

To ensure better traceability of the individuals the Civic body has also urged labs to call and verify the phone numbers of those being tested, before accepting the contact and personal details. If in case the suspected person does not possess an Aadhaar card and the sample has been taken, then he/she must be placed under quarantine until the results are declared

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that cases were on the rise in Chennai and its adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. He reasoned that this was due to the population density and the crowded areas including slums.He stated that the state is testing around 13000 people per day and that Tamil Nadu had a high recovery rate, which is over 57 per cent, while the mortality rate has also been low.&nbsp;

The Chief Minister stated that there were a total of 3371 ventilators in Government(2741) and Private(630) hospitals across the state. In terms of the number of beds that are kept ready, Chennai has 17500 beds and there are 75,000 across the state. He added that the Government is also considering distributing masks to all ration card holders, adding that the Chennai corporation had already distributed 1.5crore masks to the poor and needy.&nbsp;

While Tamil Nadu has extended the lockdown till June 30th, the extension has come with a slew of relaxations. Dine-in with 50% occupancy will be permitted in hotels from June 8th, salons and Beauty parlors have opened from Monday and also limited number of cabs are plying on the roads, besides the resumption of bus services in certain districts.

It is notable that Tamil Nadu is the first state to make it mandatory for customers at salons to give their Aadhaar card number, along with their name address and phone number to ensure quick-contact tracing, if and when the need arises. While the services have resumed, the shops have been instructed to operate without air conditioning,&nbsp;&nbsp;on an appointment basis, with only 50% occupancy and less number of customers waiting at the parlors.&nbsp;

While all standalone shops and even large retailers, showrooms have been permitted to open for business, shopping malls remain shut. Public spaces, parks, beaches, gyms and swimming pools, clubs have remained closed since the first phase of the lockdown that began on March 25th.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases.

Tamil Nadu has crossed the grim milestone of 25,000 total Corona virus, the only second state in India to do so after Maharashtra. On Wednesday, the Southern Indian state recorded a new high of 1286 cases, while the numbers in capital city Chennai also went past the 1000-mark, with 1012 cases. The state currently has 11345 active cases and has seen 208 deaths, of which a large number have been senior citizens and those with co-morbidities. The state has been witnessing over 1000 cases daily over the last four days, with over 80 per cent of the cases coming from Chennai alone. Discrepancy in data collection by the Private labs in Chennai has led the Chennai Corporation to issue a new set of instructions to collect personal information of the individuals whose samples are being taken. The Civic body has stated that the labs are required to collect full address details including door number, street name, locality, pin code and also the persons Aadhaar number. To ensure better traceability of the individuals the Civic body has also urged labs to call and verify the phone numbers of those being tested, before accepting the contact and personal details. If in case the suspected person does not possess an Aadhaar card and the sample has been taken, then he/she must be placed under quarantine until the results are declared Addressing the media on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that cases were on the rise in Chennai and its adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. He reasoned that this was due to the population density and the crowded areas including slums.He stated that the state is testing around 13000 people per day and that Tamil Nadu had a high recovery rate, which is over 57 per cent, while the mortality rate has also been low. The Chief Minister stated that there were a total of 3371 ventilators in Government(2741) and Private(630) hospitals across the state. In terms of the number of beds that are kept ready, Chennai has 17500 beds and there are 75,000 across the state. He added that the Government is also considering distributing masks to all ration card holders, adding that the Chennai corporation had already distributed 1.5crore masks to the poor and needy. While Tamil Nadu has extended the lockdown till June 30th, the extension has come with a slew of relaxations. Dine-in with 50% occupancy will be permitted in hotels from June 8th, salons and Beauty parlors have opened from Monday and also limited number of cabs are plying on the roads, besides the resumption of bus services in certain districts. It is notable that Tamil Nadu is the first state to make it mandatory for customers at salons to give their Aadhaar card number, along with their name address and phone number to ensure quick-contact tracing, if and when the need arises. While the services have resumed, the shops have been instructed to operate without air conditioning, on an appointment basis, with only 50% occupancy and less number of customers waiting at the parlors. While all standalone shops and even large retailers, showrooms have been permitted to open for business, shopping malls remain shut. Public spaces, parks, beaches, gyms and swimming pools, clubs have remained closed since the first phase of the lockdown that began on March 25th.

COVID-19: Tamil Nadu surpasses 25,000 cases; Chennai sees over 1,000 daily cases for the first time

Russia on Tuesday batted for G20, which includes G7, BRICS and other leading centres of economic growth and political influence of the entire world after Trump invited Russia, India and other countries to attend G7 summit. &nbsp;

The idea of an expanded G7 summit is, in general, a step in the right direction but doesn't mean a true representation as it's hardly possible to implement serious global initiatives without China, said&nbsp;Russian Foreign Ministry Spox Maria Zakharova.&nbsp;

''The idea of an expanded G7 summit is in general a step in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-postpones-g7-summit-talks-about-inviting-india-302073">right direction</a> but doesn't mean a true representation. For instance, it's obvious that it's hardly possible to implement serious global initiatives without China,'' &nbsp;Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

''We currently have an efficient, tried and tested format, G20, which includes G7, BRICS and other leading centres of economic growth and political influence of the entire world, not just one part of it,'' &nbsp;Zakharova added.&nbsp;

G7 is the group of top seven developed economies. These include the US, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada. Heads of States of these countries meet annually to discuss issues of global governance, including climate change, security and the economy.

Trump has postponed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-bid-to-counter-china-invite-india-russia-to-g7-302693">G7 Summit</a> till September and expressed his desire to expand the "outdated" bloc to G10 or G11, including India, Russia, South Korea and Australia to the grouping of the world's top economies.

Russia on Tuesday batted for G20, which includes G7, BRICS and other leading centres of economic growth and political influence of the entire world after Trump invited Russia, India and other countries to attend G7 summit.

Russia on Tuesday batted for G20, which includes G7, BRICS and other leading centres of economic growth and political influence of the entire world after Trump invited Russia, India and other countries to attend G7 summit. The idea of an expanded G7 summit is, in general, a step in the right direction but doesn't mean a true representation as it's hardly possible to implement serious global initiatives without China, said Russian Foreign Ministry Spox Maria Zakharova. ''The idea of an expanded G7 summit is in general a step in the right direction but doesn't mean a true representation. For instance, it's obvious that it's hardly possible to implement serious global initiatives without China,'' Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying. ''We currently have an efficient, tried and tested format, G20, which includes G7, BRICS and other leading centres of economic growth and political influence of the entire world, not just one part of it,'' Zakharova added. G7 is the group of top seven developed economies. These include the US, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada. Heads of States of these countries meet annually to discuss issues of global governance, including climate change, security and the economy. Trump has postponed the G7 Summit till September and expressed his desire to expand the "outdated" bloc to G10 or G11, including India, Russia, South Korea and Australia to the grouping of the world's top economies.

Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going&nbsp;on for almost a month now.

Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down.

WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent&nbsp;of the Chinese intrusion.

"According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said.

"They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-exclusive-indian-defence-minister-on-india-china-border-standoff-rajnath-singh-302746/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

So that's the situation right now as&nbsp;the standoff continues with both&nbsp;sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute.

Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today&nbsp;leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism.

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"I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." 
-Chairman <a href="https://twitter.com/RepEliotEngel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepEliotEngel</a> <a href="https://t.co/say45WUhBt">https://t.co/say45WUhBt</a>
— House Foreign Affairs Committee (@HouseForeign) <a href="https://twitter.com/HouseForeign/status/1267501030121582593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues.

Engel heads the&nbsp;powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America.

A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one.

Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway,&nbsp;there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country."&nbsp;

While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt.

A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that&nbsp;the ball is now in China's court.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences.

China's repeated violations of India's territorial integrity has been going on for almost a month now. Indian troops are locked in a standoff in Ladakh where the PLA has planted tents and positioned troops on Indian territory with both sides stepping up their defences. The situation is tense and, the Chinese troops are not backing down. WION spoke to India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and for the first time the minister revealed the specifics on what happened at the border and the extent of the Chinese intrusion. "According to our information, they used to conduct exercises away from the LAC. They have come closer to the LAC now. What I have been told is that they are 10-12 kilometres away from the LAC towards China. In some areas, their patrolling party have come. We got information that they had come into some areas in the Galwan Valley. A face-off happened. Then they left," India's defence minister said. "They had placed tents in some areas where they have not placed before," Rajnath Singh added. So that's the situation right now as the standoff continues with both sides engaged in dialogue now. India and China are looking for a bilateral solution to the border dispute. Rajnath Singh spoke to the French defence minister today leading many to speculate if China was discussed because the global community has taken a tough stand against China's military adventurism. "I strongly urge China to respect norms and use diplomacy and existing mechanisms to resolve its border questions with India." -Chairman @RepEliotEngel https://t.co/say45WUhBt — House Foreign Affairs Committee (@HouseForeign) June 1, 2020 × In a statement, US lawmaker Eliot Engel called China a "bully". He strongly urged Beijing to "respect norms and use diplomacy" to resolve the border issues. Engel heads the powerful panel of lawmakers on foreign affairs in America. A few days ago, US President Donald Trump had made an offer. He had said the US is willing to "mediate or arbitrate" in this standoff. India has rejected Trump on more occasions than one. Yet again, India's Defence Minister ruled out the involvement of any third party. He said: "I believe that this issue between India and China is a bilateral one. And now that a dialogue is underway, there is no need to discuss this issue with another country because even China has expressed that this issue should be resolved through the bilateral mechanism. Which is why I have not discussed this with any other country." While India is willing to talk, it will not relent. The defence minister told WION that the government won't allow India's pride to be hurt. A clear signal to Beijing that India will not give up its territory and that the ball is now in China's court.

A face-off happened, then they left, Rajnath Singh to WION on standoff with China

India stepped into Unlock 1.0, but the number of coronavirus cases saw another steep rise.

India's total toll of coronavirus cases reached&nbsp;1,90,535, as&nbsp;8,392 new cases have been reported in the past 24 hours. A total of 230 deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours.

The total toll includes&nbsp;93,322 active cases, 91,819 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,394 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-crosses-1000-mark-in-terms-of-new-coronavirus-cases-in-one-day-302201">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day</a>

Chandigarh reported 503 new cases, including 388 active cases, 114 discharged and 1 death, said the State Health Department.

Nitin Madan Kulkarni, Jharkhand's Health Secretary, reported 25 new&nbsp;cases, which has taken the toll to 635.

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199 more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases reported in Telangana today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 2698, including 1188 active cases, 1428 recovered and 82 deaths: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/thiCIMDEHb">pic.twitter.com/thiCIMDEHb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1267160869730828289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indore reported 53 more cases. Total number of cases in the district is now at 3,539, including 1,990 discharged, 1,414 under treatment, and 135 deaths.

ICMR also made a new record of testing as the organization collected 1,00,180 samples in the last 24 hours. A total of 38,37,207 samples have been tested till now.

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Total 38,37,207 samples have been tested till now, of which 1,00,180 samples have been tested in the last 24 hours: ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) <a href="https://t.co/8GAJ6X3vAY">pic.twitter.com/8GAJ6X3vAY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1267313777277460481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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198 new cases and 7 deaths were reported in Madhya Pradesh in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 8,089 and death toll to 350. Number of active cases stands&nbsp;at 2,897 in the state.

Chhattisgarh reported 51 new cases, taking the toll to&nbsp;498, including 383 active cases, 114 discharged and 1 death.

Assam has reported 22 new cases. The total number of cases in the state is 1,361, out of which 1,169 are active cases.

India stepped into Unlock 1.0, but the number of coronavirus cases saw another steep rise. India's total toll of coronavirus cases reached 1,90,535, as 8,392 new cases have been reported in the past 24 hours.

India stepped into Unlock 1.0, but the number of coronavirus cases saw another steep rise. India's total toll of coronavirus cases reached 1,90,535, as 8,392 new cases have been reported in the past 24 hours. A total of 230 deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours. The total toll includes 93,322 active cases, 91,819 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,394 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Also read: Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day Chandigarh reported 503 new cases, including 388 active cases, 114 discharged and 1 death, said the State Health Department. Nitin Madan Kulkarni, Jharkhand's Health Secretary, reported 25 new cases, which has taken the toll to 635. 199 more #COVID19 cases reported in Telangana today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 2698, including 1188 active cases, 1428 recovered and 82 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/thiCIMDEHb — ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2020 × Indore reported 53 more cases. Total number of cases in the district is now at 3,539, including 1,990 discharged, 1,414 under treatment, and 135 deaths. ICMR also made a new record of testing as the organization collected 1,00,180 samples in the last 24 hours. A total of 38,37,207 samples have been tested till now. Total 38,37,207 samples have been tested till now, of which 1,00,180 samples have been tested in the last 24 hours: ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) pic.twitter.com/8GAJ6X3vAY — ANI (@ANI) June 1, 2020 × 198 new cases and 7 deaths were reported in Madhya Pradesh in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 8,089 and death toll to 350. Number of active cases stands at 2,897 in the state. Chhattisgarh reported 51 new cases, taking the toll to 498, including 383 active cases, 114 discharged and 1 death. Assam has reported 22 new cases. The total number of cases in the state is 1,361, out of which 1,169 are active cases.

COVID 19: India's cases nearly 2 lakh; ICMR conducts more than 1 lakh tests

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday said that the United States can partner with several countries across the globe, including India, considering the threat posed by Chinese military capabilities.

"With respect to the Chinese Communist Party's military advances, they are real. General Secretary Xi is intent to build his military capabilities. Our Department of Defence is doing everything it can to make sure it understands this threat. And I am confident that under President Trump our Department of Defense, our military, our national security establishment will keep us in a position where we can protect the American people, and indeed we can be good partners with our allies from India, from Australia, from South Korea, from Japan, from Brazil, from Europe, all around the world," Pompeo told Fox News.

"We can be good partners alongside them and ensure that the next century remains a Western one modelled on the freedoms that we have here in the United States," he added.

Answering a question on recent border stand-off between India and China, Pompeo said, "the Chinese Communist Party has been on this effort, on this march, for an awfully long time. They'll certainly use a tactical situation on the ground to their advantage. But each of the problems that you identified there is threats that they have been making for an awfully long time."

Pompeo added, "For the first time, we have an administration that's prepared to actually respond to say this is unacceptable and to take responses that are measured, appropriate, but reflect the seriousness with which we take the obligation to protect the American people from these Chinese Communist Party efforts."

On 60 impending bills in US Congress relating to China, Pompeo responded, "I don't know which of those 60 will make it to the President's desk. I'm counting on the people of Congress. Your point about 60 is important. Many of these are bipartisan bills."

"...Last week there was one that had to do with the Uighurs in China. I would encourage the members of Congress to continue to study this issue, to work to help this administration do the things it needs to do to prevent the Chinese Communist Party from its advances and to keep the American people safe."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday said that the United States can partner with several countries across the globe, including India, considering the threat posed by Chinese military capabilities.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday said that the United States can partner with several countries across the globe, including India, considering the threat posed by Chinese military capabilities. "With respect to the Chinese Communist Party's military advances, they are real. General Secretary Xi is intent to build his military capabilities. Our Department of Defence is doing everything it can to make sure it understands this threat. And I am confident that under President Trump our Department of Defense, our military, our national security establishment will keep us in a position where we can protect the American people, and indeed we can be good partners with our allies from India, from Australia, from South Korea, from Japan, from Brazil, from Europe, all around the world," Pompeo told Fox News. "We can be good partners alongside them and ensure that the next century remains a Western one modelled on the freedoms that we have here in the United States," he added. Answering a question on recent border stand-off between India and China, Pompeo said, "the Chinese Communist Party has been on this effort, on this march, for an awfully long time. They'll certainly use a tactical situation on the ground to their advantage. But each of the problems that you identified there is threats that they have been making for an awfully long time." Pompeo added, "For the first time, we have an administration that's prepared to actually respond to say this is unacceptable and to take responses that are measured, appropriate, but reflect the seriousness with which we take the obligation to protect the American people from these Chinese Communist Party efforts." On 60 impending bills in US Congress relating to China, Pompeo responded, "I don't know which of those 60 will make it to the President's desk. I'm counting on the people of Congress. Your point about 60 is important. Many of these are bipartisan bills." "...Last week there was one that had to do with the Uighurs in China. I would encourage the members of Congress to continue to study this issue, to work to help this administration do the things it needs to do to prevent the Chinese Communist Party from its advances and to keep the American people safe." (With inputs from agencies)

US can partner with several countries including India in view of threat posed by China: Pompeo

The Indian security official who caught one of the Pakistani visa official Abdi Hussain Abid at a restaurant in Karol Bagh as part of espionage plan had told him to finish his samosa fast when he was caught in the act.

Sources revealing the details of Sunday's operation said the official who nabbed Abid asked him to "finish eating Samosa fast, your time is up".

Abdi, along with Tahir Khan was caught on Sunday while trying to source sensitive document on a specific tip. They were on a radar for a long time. A trap was laid and later in an operation, they were apprehended. They had come in a diplomatic car of Pakistan mission and visuals showed a broken windshield of the vehicle.

India immediately declared both of them persona non grata and expelled them. They are expected to reach Pakistan by today night via Wagha Attari border.&nbsp;

The MEA in a release said the Pakistani Charge de Affaires was issued a demarche in which India strongly protested "activities of these officials" and "asked to ensure that no member of its diplomatic mission should indulge in activities inimical to India or behave in a manner incompatible with their diplomatic status."

The last time a Pakistani official was caught trying to indulge in espionage in Delhi was in 2016. India had that time also expelled the official but Islamabad in a tit for tat also expelled an Indian official. 
&nbsp;

The Indian security official who caught one of the Pakistani visa official Abdi Hussain Abid at a restaurant in Karol Bagh as part of espionage plan had told him to finish his samosa fast when he was caught in the act.

The Indian security official who caught one of the Pakistani visa official Abdi Hussain Abid at a restaurant in Karol Bagh as part of espionage plan had told him to finish his samosa fast when he was caught in the act. Sources revealing the details of Sunday's operation said the official who nabbed Abid asked him to "finish eating Samosa fast, your time is up". Abdi, along with Tahir Khan was caught on Sunday while trying to source sensitive document on a specific tip. They were on a radar for a long time. A trap was laid and later in an operation, they were apprehended. They had come in a diplomatic car of Pakistan mission and visuals showed a broken windshield of the vehicle. India immediately declared both of them persona non grata and expelled them. They are expected to reach Pakistan by today night via Wagha Attari border. The MEA in a release said the Pakistani Charge de Affaires was issued a demarche in which India strongly protested "activities of these officials" and "asked to ensure that no member of its diplomatic mission should indulge in activities inimical to India or behave in a manner incompatible with their diplomatic status." The last time a Pakistani official was caught trying to indulge in espionage in Delhi was in 2016. India had that time also expelled the official but Islamabad in a tit for tat also expelled an Indian official.

Espionage case: Spies to reach Pakistan today via Wagha Attari border

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-government-frees-900-taliban-prisoners-on-last-day-of-truce-301202" hreflang="en">Afghan government frees 900 Taliban prisoners on last day of truce</a>

Nepal had staged a protest against India for opening a new road to Lipulekh that was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. India rejected the protest by saying that the road was within the Indian territory, to which Nepal responded by publishing a new map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadura, which fall within India, as part of Nepalese territory.

During an interview with Nepal's news agency, Pokhrel said: “No matter what background and circumstance is it based on, such statements are an effort to offend sovereign and independent Nepal and prideful Nepalis… With this, the Indian CoAS [chief of army staff] has also hurt the sentiments of the Nepali Gurkha army personnel who lay down their lives to protect India. It must now become difficult for them to stand tall in front of the Gurkha forces…The statement by the Indian CoAS seems to be a political stunt.”

He added, “How professional is it for the head of the army to make a political statement? We don’t have anything like that here. Nepali Army does not go vocal on such matter. The army is not there to speak. Nepali Army is a fully professional military force. It would play its role in the right time, as per the directives of the government based on our Constitution.”

Pokhrel is also the deputy prime minister of the country called India a "friendly country" and urged that “lost Nepali territory must be returned through peaceful political dialogue and diplomatic channel, and I am confident that it is possible”.

India has not responded to Pokhrel's remarks.&nbsp;

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India.

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India. Also read: Afghan government frees 900 Taliban prisoners on last day of truce Nepal had staged a protest against India for opening a new road to Lipulekh that was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. India rejected the protest by saying that the road was within the Indian territory, to which Nepal responded by publishing a new map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadura, which fall within India, as part of Nepalese territory. During an interview with Nepal's news agency, Pokhrel said: “No matter what background and circumstance is it based on, such statements are an effort to offend sovereign and independent Nepal and prideful Nepalis… With this, the Indian CoAS [chief of army staff] has also hurt the sentiments of the Nepali Gurkha army personnel who lay down their lives to protect India. It must now become difficult for them to stand tall in front of the Gurkha forces…The statement by the Indian CoAS seems to be a political stunt.” He added, “How professional is it for the head of the army to make a political statement? We don’t have anything like that here. Nepali Army does not go vocal on such matter. The army is not there to speak. Nepali Army is a fully professional military force. It would play its role in the right time, as per the directives of the government based on our Constitution.” Pokhrel is also the deputy prime minister of the country called India a "friendly country" and urged that “lost Nepali territory must be returned through peaceful political dialogue and diplomatic channel, and I am confident that it is possible”. India has not responded to Pokhrel's remarks.

Our Army will fight if necessary: Nepal's defence minister on Indian Army Chief's remark

A 25-year-old man was injured in overnight mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting&nbsp;officials.

The shelling in Mendhar and Balakote sectors started around 11 pm on Saturday and continued till 4:50 am, the report said quoting the officials.

Mohammad Yasir, a resident of Gohlad, received splinter injuries when a mortar shell exploded near his house in the early hours of Sunday, the officials said.

They said over half a dozen villages in forward areas were hit by the overnight shelling, resulting in partial damage to two houses.

The shelling was intense in Mendhar sector.

The Indian Army effectively retaliated but the casualties on the Pakistani side could not be ascertained immediately, the official said.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

A 25-year-old man was injured in overnight mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.

A 25-year-old man was injured in overnight mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. The shelling in Mendhar and Balakote sectors started around 11 pm on Saturday and continued till 4:50 am, the report said quoting the officials. Mohammad Yasir, a resident of Gohlad, received splinter injuries when a mortar shell exploded near his house in the early hours of Sunday, the officials said. They said over half a dozen villages in forward areas were hit by the overnight shelling, resulting in partial damage to two houses. The shelling was intense in Mendhar sector. The Indian Army effectively retaliated but the casualties on the Pakistani side could not be ascertained immediately, the official said. (With inputs from PTI)

Pakistan shells areas along LoC in Poonch, man injured

Indian police, on Friday,&nbsp;released a pigeon belonging to a Pakistani fisherman after the officials made sure that the bird, that flew&nbsp;across the contentious border between the nuclear-armed nations, was not a spy.

“The pigeon was set free yesterday (May 28) after nothing suspicious was found,” said Shailendra Mishra, a senior police official in Indian-administered Kashmir.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/arrest-warrant-issued-against-nawaz-sharif-in-national-depository-case-301767">Also read:&nbsp;Arrest warrant issued against Nawaz Sharif in national depository case</a>

Suspicions were raised by villagers after the bird flew in Indian territory. The villagers handed over the bird to Indian Police. Some&nbsp;numbers were inscribed on a ring on the pigeon’s leg, which the Indian Police, before investigation, suspected&nbsp;were codes meant for militant groups operating in the disputed region of Kashmir.

However, Habibullah, the owner of the pigeon, dismissed the assumption and claimed that the pigeon is "just an innocent bird."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/locust-attacks-in-pakistan-raise-fear-of-massive-food-shortages-301735">Also read:&nbsp;Locust attacks in Pakistan raise fear of massive food shortages</a>

He claimed that the number on the ring was his phone number from the time when his bird had participated in a pigeon racing contest.

“We had to take the bird into our custody to probe if it was being using for spying,” a senior Indian border security officer said requesting anonymity, while explaining this was part of the drill given border sensitivities.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Indian police, on Friday, released a pigeon belonging to a Pakistani fisherman after the officials made sure that the bird, that flew across the contentious border between the nuclear-armed nations, was not a spy.

Indian police, on Friday, released a pigeon belonging to a Pakistani fisherman after the officials made sure that the bird, that flew across the contentious border between the nuclear-armed nations, was not a spy. “The pigeon was set free yesterday (May 28) after nothing suspicious was found,” said Shailendra Mishra, a senior police official in Indian-administered Kashmir. Also read: Arrest warrant issued against Nawaz Sharif in national depository case Suspicions were raised by villagers after the bird flew in Indian territory. The villagers handed over the bird to Indian Police. Some numbers were inscribed on a ring on the pigeon’s leg, which the Indian Police, before investigation, suspected were codes meant for militant groups operating in the disputed region of Kashmir. However, Habibullah, the owner of the pigeon, dismissed the assumption and claimed that the pigeon is "just an innocent bird." Also read: Locust attacks in Pakistan raise fear of massive food shortages He claimed that the number on the ring was his phone number from the time when his bird had participated in a pigeon racing contest. “We had to take the bird into our custody to probe if it was being using for spying,” a senior Indian border security officer said requesting anonymity, while explaining this was part of the drill given border sensitivities. (With inputs from Reuters)

Just an innocent bird - India returns Pakistan's suspected spy bird

As India Malaysia Political ties improved under the new Malaysian PM Muhyiddin Yassin, business ties between the two countries have also seen some breakthrough. While Indian oil refineries are importing more crude palm oil, Malaysian import of rice and sugar from India has reached a record level.

As India Malaysia Political ties improved under the new Malaysian PM Muhyiddin Yassin, business ties between the two countries have also seen some breakthrough. While Indian oil refineries are importing more crude palm oil, Malaysian import of rice and sugar from India has reached a record level. Due to the export levy imposed by Indonesians, Malaysian palm oil is comparatively cheaper. The high-level engagement has already started between New Delhi and the new Malaysian government. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently spoke to new Malaysian foreign minister Hishammuddin Hussein. Indian high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar has also met Malaysian foreign minister Hishammuddin twice. Indian high commissioner was the first envoy received by the Malaysian foreign minister on March 18, the day when he took charge. Ties between Delhi and Kuala Lumpur went downhill under the previous Malaysian government led by Mahathir bin Mohamad. Mahathir had taken a very anti-India stance on several issues, irking New Delhi. However, ties have improved lately and both sides have been working together in COVID-19 pandemic fight. India had sent hydroxychloroquine to Malaysia and both sides have been supporting each other in repatriation efforts. India had allowed more than 18 Malaysian flights, which is one of the largest numbers of flights given go-ahead by India for any foreign country, to leave the country during the lockdown to enable Malaysian nationals to reach home. Meanwhile, India has repatriated a total of around 3200 Indians since mid-march including 1700 under Vande Bharat Mission. More are expected to be repatriated in the coming days.

Business ties between India and Malaysia improve as political relationship makes headway

Gross domestic product data out later on Friday is expected to show India’s economy grew at its slowest pace in at least two years in the March quarter as the coronavirus pandemic weakened already declining consumer demand and private investment.

The median forecast from a Reuters poll of economists put annual economic growth at 2.1% in the March quarter, lower than 4.7% in the December quarter. Forecasts ranged between +4.5% and -1.5%.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-impact-geopolitical-developments-deepen-chinas-global-5g-woes-301549">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus impact: Geopolitical developments deepen China’s global 5G woes</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained the lockdown ordered on March 25 to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the world’s second most populous country, though many restrictions were eased for manufacturing, transport and other services from May 18.

The full impact of the lockdown on manufacturing and services will become more apparent in the June quarter, with Goldman Sachs predicting a 45% contraction from a year ago.

Economists expect the fiscal year that began in April will see the worst economic contraction in four decades.

“Economic activity will face ongoing disruption over the next year as the country transitions to a post-COVID-19 world,” the rating agency S&amp;P said on Thursday, cutting its 2020/21 forecast to a 5% contraction.

Weather forecasts for normal monsoon rains are in Indian farmers’ favour at least, giving hope that the rural sector can help support the millions of migrant workers who returned to their villages from the cities when the lockdown began.

Number of coronavirus affected people in India has crossed 158,000 with 4,531 deaths, with an average daily jump of 6,000 cases in the last one week.

Gross domestic product data out later on Friday is expected to show India’s economy grew at its slowest pace in at least two years in the March quarter as the coronavirus pandemic weakened already declining consumer demand and private investment.

Gross domestic product data out later on Friday is expected to show India’s economy grew at its slowest pace in at least two years in the March quarter as the coronavirus pandemic weakened already declining consumer demand and private investment. The median forecast from a Reuters poll of economists put annual economic growth at 2.1% in the March quarter, lower than 4.7% in the December quarter. Forecasts ranged between +4.5% and -1.5%. Also read: Coronavirus impact: Geopolitical developments deepen China’s global 5G woes Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained the lockdown ordered on March 25 to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the world’s second most populous country, though many restrictions were eased for manufacturing, transport and other services from May 18. The full impact of the lockdown on manufacturing and services will become more apparent in the June quarter, with Goldman Sachs predicting a 45% contraction from a year ago. Economists expect the fiscal year that began in April will see the worst economic contraction in four decades. “Economic activity will face ongoing disruption over the next year as the country transitions to a post-COVID-19 world,” the rating agency S&P said on Thursday, cutting its 2020/21 forecast to a 5% contraction. Weather forecasts for normal monsoon rains are in Indian farmers’ favour at least, giving hope that the rural sector can help support the millions of migrant workers who returned to their villages from the cities when the lockdown began. Number of coronavirus affected people in India has crossed 158,000 with 4,531 deaths, with an average daily jump of 6,000 cases in the last one week.

India's economy seen slowing rapidly in March quarter, with worse to come

Worst in 26 years! Swarm of locusts attack Indian farmers

Pakistan, on Wednesday night,&nbsp;criticised India for starting the construction of the Ram temple&nbsp;in Ayodhya. The government&nbsp;said it shows how the Muslims in the country are being marginalised.

"The commencement of construction of a mandir at the site of the historic Babri Masjid in Ayodhya on May 26, 2020, is another step in this direction and the Government and people of Pakistan condemn it in the strongest terms," said&nbsp;Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) in a statement.

The ministry also alleged India of not setting the priorities right, and said that while the nation is battling a pandemic,&nbsp;"the RSS-BJP combine" was advancing the "Hindutva" agenda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/covid-19-coronavirus-cases-in-pakistan-cross-61000-mark-death-toll-soars-to-1260-301537">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: Coronavirus cases in Pakistan cross 61,000-mark, death toll soars to 1,260</a>

Criticizing the Indian Supreme Court's judgement, Pakistan said the decision&nbsp;&nbsp;"completely failed to uphold the demands of justice".

The FO said the developments relating to the Babri Masjid, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and initiation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process are vivid illustrations of how the Muslims in India are being marginalised.

The Indian government has not responded to the allegations by the Pakistan government and has claimed that this is an internal matter of the country.

Pakistan, on Wednesday night, criticised India for starting the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The government said it shows how the Muslims in the country are being marginalised.

Pakistan, on Wednesday night, criticised India for starting the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The government said it shows how the Muslims in the country are being marginalised. "The commencement of construction of a mandir at the site of the historic Babri Masjid in Ayodhya on May 26, 2020, is another step in this direction and the Government and people of Pakistan condemn it in the strongest terms," said Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) in a statement. The ministry also alleged India of not setting the priorities right, and said that while the nation is battling a pandemic, "the RSS-BJP combine" was advancing the "Hindutva" agenda. Also read| COVID 19: Coronavirus cases in Pakistan cross 61,000-mark, death toll soars to 1,260 Criticizing the Indian Supreme Court's judgement, Pakistan said the decision "completely failed to uphold the demands of justice". The FO said the developments relating to the Babri Masjid, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and initiation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process are vivid illustrations of how the Muslims in India are being marginalised. The Indian government has not responded to the allegations by the Pakistan government and has claimed that this is an internal matter of the country.

Pakistan criticizes construction of Ram Mandir; calls it Hindutva agenda

Pakistan Army has claimed shooting down&nbsp;an Indian "spying quadcopter" for allegedly violating the airspace along the Line of Control.

The incident, according to military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar, took place on Wednesday in&nbsp;Rakhchikri Sector of the LoC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-tries-to-fuel-tension-between-india-and-china-passes-offensive-remark-301359">Also read:&nbsp;Pak PM Imran Khan tries to fuel tension between India and China, passes offensive remark</a>

He claimed that the quadcopter was brought down as it had intruded 650 metres on Pakistan''s side of the LoC.

In April, too, the Pakistan Army had claimed to have shot down an Indian drone.

The constant retaliations and the rise in tension between the two countries started from the Balakot&nbsp;strike when the Indian Air Force jets bombed a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan on February 26 last year to avenge the killing of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan retaliated on February 27 by attempting to target Indian military installations.

Lately, the two countries have been engaged in crossfires along the borders, claiming few lives of personnel.

Pakistan Army has claimed shooting down an Indian "spying quadcopter" for allegedly violating the airspace along the Line of Control. The incident, according to military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar, took place on Wednesday in Rakhchikri Sector of the LoC.

Pakistan Army has claimed shooting down an Indian "spying quadcopter" for allegedly violating the airspace along the Line of Control. The incident, according to military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar, took place on Wednesday in Rakhchikri Sector of the LoC. Also read: Pak PM Imran Khan tries to fuel tension between India and China, passes offensive remark He claimed that the quadcopter was brought down as it had intruded 650 metres on Pakistan''s side of the LoC. In April, too, the Pakistan Army had claimed to have shot down an Indian drone. The constant retaliations and the rise in tension between the two countries started from the Balakot strike when the Indian Air Force jets bombed a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan on February 26 last year to avenge the killing of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan retaliated on February 27 by attempting to target Indian military installations. Lately, the two countries have been engaged in crossfires along the borders, claiming few lives of personnel.

Pakistan army claims shooting Indian spying quadcopter along LoC

Indian authorities are helping farmers mount a pesticide spraying campaign to fight the swarms of desert locusts, according to a report.&nbsp;

As many as 700 tractors, 75 fire engines and almost 50 other vehicles are engaged in spraying pesticides to kill the locusts, which have already devastated crops across Pakistan and East Africa.

Drones will also be employed.

"At this point it's manageable, but if it continues it will be a problem" for monsoon-sown crops, said Mohapatra, who's also the top bureaucrat at the department of agricultural research and education. The impact will be lessened by the current spraying campaign and the fact that the harvest of the winter crop is mostly over, Trilochan Mohapatra, director general of the state-run Indian Council of Agricultural Research in New Delhi said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

About 42,000 hectares (104,000 acres) of cotton, summer pulses and vegetable crops have been affected by locusts across six states, mainly in Rajasthan, he said.&nbsp;

Farmers grow rice, pulses, cotton, sugar cane and soybeans on over 106 million hectares in the monsoon season, according to the farm ministry.

In January, the biggest locust swarm to hit Gujarat in over a quarter of a century resulted in more than 25,000 hectares of wheat, rapeseed, cumin and potatoes being attacked, with at least a third of the crops damaged in 75% of the affected areas, according to the state's directorate of agriculture.

Overall, growth in agriculture sector will likely be positive in the fiscal year that began on April 1, said Ashok Gulati, a professor at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations in New Delhi. "It will have some impact on horticulture crops, but not much," he said.

India's massive locust attack 2019-20 saw about 403,488 hectares treated with pesticides, according to the farm ministry.

Indian authorities are helping farmers mount a pesticide spraying campaign to fight the swarms of desert locusts, according to a report. As many as 700 tractors, 75 fire engines and almost 50 other vehicles are engaged in spraying pesticides to kill the locusts, which have already devastated crops across Pakistan and East Africa.

Indian authorities are helping farmers mount a pesticide spraying campaign to fight the swarms of desert locusts, according to a report. As many as 700 tractors, 75 fire engines and almost 50 other vehicles are engaged in spraying pesticides to kill the locusts, which have already devastated crops across Pakistan and East Africa. Drones will also be employed. "At this point it's manageable, but if it continues it will be a problem" for monsoon-sown crops, said Mohapatra, who's also the top bureaucrat at the department of agricultural research and education. The impact will be lessened by the current spraying campaign and the fact that the harvest of the winter crop is mostly over, Trilochan Mohapatra, director general of the state-run Indian Council of Agricultural Research in New Delhi said on Tuesday. About 42,000 hectares (104,000 acres) of cotton, summer pulses and vegetable crops have been affected by locusts across six states, mainly in Rajasthan, he said. Farmers grow rice, pulses, cotton, sugar cane and soybeans on over 106 million hectares in the monsoon season, according to the farm ministry. In January, the biggest locust swarm to hit Gujarat in over a quarter of a century resulted in more than 25,000 hectares of wheat, rapeseed, cumin and potatoes being attacked, with at least a third of the crops damaged in 75% of the affected areas, according to the state's directorate of agriculture. Overall, growth in agriculture sector will likely be positive in the fiscal year that began on April 1, said Ashok Gulati, a professor at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations in New Delhi. "It will have some impact on horticulture crops, but not much," he said. India's massive locust attack 2019-20 saw about 403,488 hectares treated with pesticides, according to the farm ministry.

Indian authorities help farmers to fight desert locusts; drones used

India's fourth recession since independence, the first since liberalisation and perhaps the worst to date, is here, CRISIL said on Tuesday as it predicted the economy to shrink by 5 per cent in the current fiscal because of coronavirus lockdown.

"The first quarter (April to June 2020) will suffer a staggering 25 per cent contraction," it said in its assessment of India's GDP.

"About 10% of gross domestic product (GDP) in real terms could be permanently lost. So going back to the growth rates seen before the pandemic is unlikely in the next three fiscals."

In the past 69 years, India has seen a recession only thrice as per available data in fiscals 1958, 1966 and 1980. The reason was the same each time a monsoon shock that hit agriculture, then a sizeable part of the economy.

Crisil said the recession in the current fiscal (April 2020 to March 2021) is different as agriculture could soften the blow this time by growing near its trend rate, assuming a normal monsoon.

The coronavirus lockdown, first imposed on March 25 and extended thrice till May 31, has curtailed economic activity severely.

"The first quarter of this fiscal will be the worst affected," it said. "Not only will the first quarter be a washout for the non-agricultural economy, services such as education, and travel and tourism among others could continue to see a big hit in the quarters to come. Jobs and incomes will see extended losses as these sectors are large employers."

It also saw economic activity in states with high COVID-19 cases suffering prolonged disruption as restrictions could continue longer.

Stating that the economic costs now beginning to show up in the hard numbers are far worse than initial expectations, it said industrial production for March fell by over 16 per cent, exports contracted 60.3 per cent in April, and new telecom subscribers declined 35 per cent, while railway freight movement plunged 35 per cent on-year.

"Indeed, given one of the most stringent lockdowns in the world, April could well be the worst-performing month for India this fiscal," it said.

Counting lockdown 4.0, Indians have had 68 days of confinement. S&amp;P Global estimates that one month of lockdown shaves 3 per cent off annual GDP on average across Asia-Pacific, it said adding since India's lockdown has been the most stringent in Asia, the impact on economic growth will be correspondingly larger.

"CRISIL forecasts India's GDP growth to fall off a cliff and contract 5% in fiscal 2021," the report said.

"Earlier, on April 28, we had slashed our prediction to 1.8 per cent growth from 3.5 per cent growth. Things have only gone downhill since. While we expect non-agricultural GDP to contract 6 per cent, agriculture could cushion the blow by growing at 2.5 per cent."

On the Rs 20.9 lakh crore economic relief package announced by the government to support the economy, Crisil said the package has some short-term measures to cushion the economy but sets its sights majorly on reforms, most of which will have payoffs only over the medium term. 
"We estimate the fiscal cost of this package at 1.2 per cent of GDP, which is lower than what we had assumed in our earlier estimate," it said.&nbsp;

India's fourth recession since independence, the first since liberalisation and perhaps the worst to date, is here, CRISIL said on Tuesday as it predicted the economy to shrink by 5 per cent in the current fiscal because of coronavirus lockdown.

India's fourth recession since independence, the first since liberalisation and perhaps the worst to date, is here, CRISIL said on Tuesday as it predicted the economy to shrink by 5 per cent in the current fiscal because of coronavirus lockdown. "The first quarter (April to June 2020) will suffer a staggering 25 per cent contraction," it said in its assessment of India's GDP. "About 10% of gross domestic product (GDP) in real terms could be permanently lost. So going back to the growth rates seen before the pandemic is unlikely in the next three fiscals." In the past 69 years, India has seen a recession only thrice as per available data in fiscals 1958, 1966 and 1980. The reason was the same each time a monsoon shock that hit agriculture, then a sizeable part of the economy. Crisil said the recession in the current fiscal (April 2020 to March 2021) is different as agriculture could soften the blow this time by growing near its trend rate, assuming a normal monsoon. The coronavirus lockdown, first imposed on March 25 and extended thrice till May 31, has curtailed economic activity severely. "The first quarter of this fiscal will be the worst affected," it said. "Not only will the first quarter be a washout for the non-agricultural economy, services such as education, and travel and tourism among others could continue to see a big hit in the quarters to come. Jobs and incomes will see extended losses as these sectors are large employers." It also saw economic activity in states with high COVID-19 cases suffering prolonged disruption as restrictions could continue longer. Stating that the economic costs now beginning to show up in the hard numbers are far worse than initial expectations, it said industrial production for March fell by over 16 per cent, exports contracted 60.3 per cent in April, and new telecom subscribers declined 35 per cent, while railway freight movement plunged 35 per cent on-year. "Indeed, given one of the most stringent lockdowns in the world, April could well be the worst-performing month for India this fiscal," it said. Counting lockdown 4.0, Indians have had 68 days of confinement. S&P Global estimates that one month of lockdown shaves 3 per cent off annual GDP on average across Asia-Pacific, it said adding since India's lockdown has been the most stringent in Asia, the impact on economic growth will be correspondingly larger. "CRISIL forecasts India's GDP growth to fall off a cliff and contract 5% in fiscal 2021," the report said. "Earlier, on April 28, we had slashed our prediction to 1.8 per cent growth from 3.5 per cent growth. Things have only gone downhill since. While we expect non-agricultural GDP to contract 6 per cent, agriculture could cushion the blow by growing at 2.5 per cent." On the Rs 20.9 lakh crore economic relief package announced by the government to support the economy, Crisil said the package has some short-term measures to cushion the economy but sets its sights majorly on reforms, most of which will have payoffs only over the medium term. "We estimate the fiscal cost of this package at 1.2 per cent of GDP, which is lower than what we had assumed in our earlier estimate," it said.

India facing its worst recession in current fiscal, says Crisil

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023.

According to an ICC spokesman, both governing bodies are trying to figure out a solution. He said: "The ICC and BCCI have been working in partnership to address the issue of tax exemptions for ICC events that is a requirement of the host agreement signed by all parties at the beginning of the cycle in 2015 and this work is ongoing."

"There are certain timelines within the agreements that we collectively work towards to ensure we can deliver successful world-class events and continue to invest in the sport of cricket."

"In addition to this the ICC Board agreed to clear timelines for the resolution of the tax issues which we are guided by," the spokesperson added.

ICC chairman and chief executive have been in touch with BCCI &nbsp;President Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah, but a mail by ICC’s legal head Jonathan Hall has upset the BCCI.&nbsp;

According to Hall's mail, BCCI is not adhering to timelines on committing to tax exemptions as per the agreement.

“The tax structure is not decided by the BCCI but by the Indian government. It is our government that decides whether the exemption will be possible or not. For the record, Formula One also wasn’t given tax exemption,” a senior BCCI official told PTI.

Usually, ICC looks for an exemption on the excide duties imposed on importing TV production equipment and ticketing. But the sports channel that has rights for India's home matches is also set up in India.&nbsp;

“We understand that as the nomination process of new ICC chairman starts on Tuesday, suddenly there has been a flurry of communication. You can rest assured that T20 World Cup in 2021 and 2023 ODI World Cup is going nowhere. As far as the timeline is concerned, we had told ICC that unless lockdown is lifted, we can’t have discussions with government officials,” the influential member told PTI.

The tax issue also finds a mention in CoA document dated back to July 6, 2019, during when BCCI's legal team were in touch with a British law firm as legal cases related to ICC falls under the UK law.

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023.

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023. According to an ICC spokesman, both governing bodies are trying to figure out a solution. He said: "The ICC and BCCI have been working in partnership to address the issue of tax exemptions for ICC events that is a requirement of the host agreement signed by all parties at the beginning of the cycle in 2015 and this work is ongoing." "There are certain timelines within the agreements that we collectively work towards to ensure we can deliver successful world-class events and continue to invest in the sport of cricket." "In addition to this the ICC Board agreed to clear timelines for the resolution of the tax issues which we are guided by," the spokesperson added. ICC chairman and chief executive have been in touch with BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah, but a mail by ICC’s legal head Jonathan Hall has upset the BCCI. According to Hall's mail, BCCI is not adhering to timelines on committing to tax exemptions as per the agreement. “The tax structure is not decided by the BCCI but by the Indian government. It is our government that decides whether the exemption will be possible or not. For the record, Formula One also wasn’t given tax exemption,” a senior BCCI official told PTI. Usually, ICC looks for an exemption on the excide duties imposed on importing TV production equipment and ticketing. But the sports channel that has rights for India's home matches is also set up in India. “We understand that as the nomination process of new ICC chairman starts on Tuesday, suddenly there has been a flurry of communication. You can rest assured that T20 World Cup in 2021 and 2023 ODI World Cup is going nowhere. As far as the timeline is concerned, we had told ICC that unless lockdown is lifted, we can’t have discussions with government officials,” the influential member told PTI. The tax issue also finds a mention in CoA document dated back to July 6, 2019, during when BCCI's legal team were in touch with a British law firm as legal cases related to ICC falls under the UK law.

BCCI vs ICC, tax exemptions create discord between the cricketing heavyweights

There have been reports of multiple incidents of transgressions by Chinese troops in several areas in Eastern Ladakh in the last one week, and soldiers from India and China were involved in scuffles on at least two occasions, authoritative sources said.

It is learnt that the Chinese army forcefully stopped movement of Indian troops on several occasions when they were carrying out patrolling in Pangong Tso lake area this week.

Amid the escalating tension, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane paid a quiet visit to the headquarters of 14 Corps in Leh on Friday and reviewed with the top commanders the overall security scenario in the region including in the disputed areas along the LAC, the de-facto border between India and China.

The sources said the Indian Army has been matching up to the Chinese build-up in both Pangong Tso lake and Galwan Valley and that it is in a much advantageous position in certain other sensitive areas in the region.

The Indian troops are also resorting to "aggressive patrolling" in several sensitive areas including Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldi, they said.

The situation in Eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on the evening of May 5 which spilled over to the next day before the two sides agreed to "disengage" following a meeting at the level of local commanders.

Over 100 Indian and Chinese soldiers were injured in the violence.

The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in North Sikkim on May 9.

In the last one week, local commanders of both the sides held at least five meetings during which the Indian side took strong note of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) erecting a large numbers of tents in areas in Galwan Valley which India felt belonged to its side of the LAC, the sources said.

India on Thursday said the Chinese military was hindering normal patrolling by its troops and asserted that India has always taken a very responsible approach towards border management.

 
In a separate incident, nearly 150 Indian and Chinese military personnel were engaged in a face-off near Naku La Pass in the Sikkim sector on May 9.

At least 10 soldiers from both sides sustained injuries.

The troops of India and China were engaged in a 73-day stand-off in Doklam tri-junction in 2017 which even triggered fears of a war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long LAC. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet while India contests it.

Both sides have been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it is necessary to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas. 
China has been critical of India's reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir, and has particularly criticised New Delhi for making Ladakh a union territory. China lays claim over several parts of Ladakh. 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first informal summit in April 2018 in the Chinese city of Wuhan, months after the Doklam standoff. 
In the summit, the two leaders decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications so that they can build trust and understanding. 
Modi and Xi held their second informal summit in Mamallapuram near Chennai in October last year with a focus on further broadening bilateral ties. PTI MPB 
DIV 
DIV

There have been reports of multiple incidents of transgressions by Chinese troops in several areas in Eastern Ladakh in the last one week, and soldiers from India and China were involved in scuffles on at least two occasions, authoritative sources said.

There have been reports of multiple incidents of transgressions by Chinese troops in several areas in Eastern Ladakh in the last one week, and soldiers from India and China were involved in scuffles on at least two occasions, authoritative sources said. It is learnt that the Chinese army forcefully stopped movement of Indian troops on several occasions when they were carrying out patrolling in Pangong Tso lake area this week. Amid the escalating tension, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane paid a quiet visit to the headquarters of 14 Corps in Leh on Friday and reviewed with the top commanders the overall security scenario in the region including in the disputed areas along the LAC, the de-facto border between India and China. The sources said the Indian Army has been matching up to the Chinese build-up in both Pangong Tso lake and Galwan Valley and that it is in a much advantageous position in certain other sensitive areas in the region. The Indian troops are also resorting to "aggressive patrolling" in several sensitive areas including Demchok and Daulat Beg Oldi, they said. The situation in Eastern Ladakh deteriorated after around 250 Chinese and Indian soldiers were engaged in a violent face-off on the evening of May 5 which spilled over to the next day before the two sides agreed to "disengage" following a meeting at the level of local commanders. Over 100 Indian and Chinese soldiers were injured in the violence. The incident in Pangong Tso was followed by a similar incident in North Sikkim on May 9. In the last one week, local commanders of both the sides held at least five meetings during which the Indian side took strong note of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) erecting a large numbers of tents in areas in Galwan Valley which India felt belonged to its side of the LAC, the sources said. India on Thursday said the Chinese military was hindering normal patrolling by its troops and asserted that India has always taken a very responsible approach towards border management. In a separate incident, nearly 150 Indian and Chinese military personnel were engaged in a face-off near Naku La Pass in the Sikkim sector on May 9. At least 10 soldiers from both sides sustained injuries. The troops of India and China were engaged in a 73-day stand-off in Doklam tri-junction in 2017 which even triggered fears of a war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long LAC. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet while India contests it. Both sides have been asserting that pending the final resolution of the boundary issue, it is necessary to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas. China has been critical of India's reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir, and has particularly criticised New Delhi for making Ladakh a union territory. China lays claim over several parts of Ladakh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first informal summit in April 2018 in the Chinese city of Wuhan, months after the Doklam standoff. In the summit, the two leaders decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications so that they can build trust and understanding. Modi and Xi held their second informal summit in Mamallapuram near Chennai in October last year with a focus on further broadening bilateral ties. PTI MPB DIV DIV

Multiple incidents of transgressions by Chinese troops reported in Ladakh as tension mounts

India`s tally of novel Coronavirus cases surpassed that of Iran`s as it recorded 1,38,845 till Monday. India reported around 7,000 new cases in the last 24 hours.

With the latest figures,&nbsp;India entered the Top 10 worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic.

The other nine countries ahead of India are -- US, Brazil, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, and Turkey.

Iran today has 1,35,701 total confirmed cases.

India recorded a jump of 6,977 cases in a single day and 154 fatalities in 24 hours, Health Ministry data said on Monday.

Of the total cases, 77,103 are active, 57,721 people have been cured while at least 4,021 individuals lost their lives.

However, at least 3,280 people have recovered since Sunday, taking the recovery rate to around 42 per cent.

In the worst-hit Maharashtra, the total coronavirus cases surged past 50,000 and stood at 50,231, including 1,635 fatalities and 14,600 recoveries.

Maharashtra is followed by Tamil Nadu which reported 16,277 cases and Gujarat with 14,056 cases.

There are at least 13,418 cases in the national capital.

States that have reported the most number of casualties, are Maharashtra followed by Gujarat (858), Madhya Pradesh (290), West Bengal (272) and Delhi (261).

States that have reported more than 6,000 cases are Rajasthan (7,028), Uttar Pradesh (6,268), Madhya Pradesh (6,665).

Among other major states and UTs where the cases have spiked are Andhra Pradesh (2,823). Bihar (2,587), Haryana (1,184), Jammu and Kashmir (1,621), Odisha (1,336), Punjab (2,060) and Telangana (1,854).

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India`s tally of novel Coronavirus cases surpassed that of Iran`s as it recorded 1,38,845 till Monday. India reported around 7,000 new cases in the last 24 hours.

India`s tally of novel Coronavirus cases surpassed that of Iran`s as it recorded 1,38,845 till Monday. India reported around 7,000 new cases in the last 24 hours. With the latest figures, India entered the Top 10 worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic. The other nine countries ahead of India are -- US, Brazil, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, and Turkey. Iran today has 1,35,701 total confirmed cases. India recorded a jump of 6,977 cases in a single day and 154 fatalities in 24 hours, Health Ministry data said on Monday. Of the total cases, 77,103 are active, 57,721 people have been cured while at least 4,021 individuals lost their lives. However, at least 3,280 people have recovered since Sunday, taking the recovery rate to around 42 per cent. In the worst-hit Maharashtra, the total coronavirus cases surged past 50,000 and stood at 50,231, including 1,635 fatalities and 14,600 recoveries. Maharashtra is followed by Tamil Nadu which reported 16,277 cases and Gujarat with 14,056 cases. There are at least 13,418 cases in the national capital. States that have reported the most number of casualties, are Maharashtra followed by Gujarat (858), Madhya Pradesh (290), West Bengal (272) and Delhi (261). States that have reported more than 6,000 cases are Rajasthan (7,028), Uttar Pradesh (6,268), Madhya Pradesh (6,665). Among other major states and UTs where the cases have spiked are Andhra Pradesh (2,823). Bihar (2,587), Haryana (1,184), Jammu and Kashmir (1,621), Odisha (1,336), Punjab (2,060) and Telangana (1,854). (With inputs from agencies)

India among 10 worst-hit COVID-19 nations as cases jump to 1,38,845

Indian government sources have dismissed reports of Indian patrol being detailed by the Chinese at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh calling them "inaccurate" The Ministry of external affairs last week said the Chinese side "hindering India’s normal patrolling patterns" after China alleged that Indian side had tried to build a structure in Galwan valley.

Indian government sources have dismissed reports of Indian patrol being detailed by the Chinese at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh calling them "inaccurate" The Ministry of external affairs last week said the Chinese side "hindering India’s normal patrolling patterns" after China alleged that Indian side had tried to build a structure in Galwan valley. The location of present India China face-off is in Galwan Valley in China occupied Ladakh. The MEA explained, "Any suggestion that Indian troops had undertaken activity across the LAC in the Western Sector or the Sikkim sector is not accurate" and the "Indian troops are fully familiar with the alignment of the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas and abide by it scrupulously. " Earlier this month speaking to WION, Army chief Gen MM Naravane on India China Faceoffs in Ladakh and Sikkim said, "I would rather say it is face-offs and these faces-offs have been happening in the past also, nothing new about it." "Different perceptions on where the Line of Actual Control(LAC) runs in these areas, we patrol up to where we believe LAC is, PLA comes were they think LAC comes. When we come face-to-face, when we come at the same place at the same time, that is when such face-offs occur, " he added.

Indian patrol being detained by China is inaccurate, says government sources

India witness biggest spike in coronavirus cases for the third consecutive day. 6,767 cases were recorded on Sunday bringing the tally to 1,31,868, whereas, the death toll due to virus surged to 3,867 after 147 deaths were recorded in 24-hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-reports-first-covid-19-case-as-delhi-returnee-tests-positive-300650" hreflang="en">Sikkim reports first COVID-19 case as Delhi returnee tests positive</a>

According to the ministry's bulletin, active cases rose to 73,560, whereas, 54,440 people have been recovered from the virus.&nbsp;

According to PTI, “Thus, around 41.28% of patients have recovered so far,” a Health Ministry official said. The total number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus includes foreigners.

Meanwhile, the global number of novel coronavirus cases has passed 5.25 million with more than 339,000 deaths, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP at 1900 GMT Saturday.

Since the outbreak first emerged in China in December, 5,260,970 cases have been recorded across 196 countries and territories, with 339,758 deaths attributed to the virus.

The latest figures mean recorded cases worldwide have doubled in a month, with 250,000 new cases recorded in less than three days.

India witness biggest spike in coronavirus cases for the third consecutive day. 6,767 cases were recorded on Sunday bringing the tally to 1,31,868, whereas, the death toll due to virus surged to 3,867 after 147 deaths were recorded in 24-hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.

India witness biggest spike in coronavirus cases for the third consecutive day. 6,767 cases were recorded on Sunday bringing the tally to 1,31,868, whereas, the death toll due to virus surged to 3,867 after 147 deaths were recorded in 24-hours, according to the Union Health Ministry. Also read: Sikkim reports first COVID-19 case as Delhi returnee tests positive According to the ministry's bulletin, active cases rose to 73,560, whereas, 54,440 people have been recovered from the virus. According to PTI, “Thus, around 41.28% of patients have recovered so far,” a Health Ministry official said. The total number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus includes foreigners. Meanwhile, the global number of novel coronavirus cases has passed 5.25 million with more than 339,000 deaths, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP at 1900 GMT Saturday. Since the outbreak first emerged in China in December, 5,260,970 cases have been recorded across 196 countries and territories, with 339,758 deaths attributed to the virus. The latest figures mean recorded cases worldwide have doubled in a month, with 250,000 new cases recorded in less than three days.

Coronavirus: India records highest spike with 6,767 cases and death toll at 3,867

In his first official engagement outside the Indian mission, the new Indian high commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay on Saturday visited the St Anthony's church, which among several places were the target of the Easter Sunday terror attack that killed more than 260 people.

In his first official engagement outside the Indian mission, the new Indian high commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay on Saturday visited the St Anthony's church, which among several places were the target of the Easter Sunday terror attack that killed more than 260 people. St Anthony's church in Kochchikade, Colombo saw more than 90 people die due to the attack. In a statement, the Indian mission in Colombo said, "High Commissioner prayed for peace, safety and security of the two countries" The administrator of the Church Rev. Father Jude Raj, "blessed the people of the two countries with health and happiness...blessed the High Commissioner in his task to foster ever closer friendship between the two neighbouring countries", the statement said. Last year Indian Prime Minister Modi made Church the first stop of his Sri Lanka visit and paid homage to the victims of the terror attack. In 2019 PM Modi, in his first visit abroad after taking charge in the 2nd term, visited the Maldives and Sri Lanka The high commissioner also visited Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo and was welcomed by Venerable Dr Kirinde Assaji Thero. PM Modi had visited the temple during the International Vesak Day Celebrations in 2017. Meanwhile, PM Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on the current COVID crisis and assured New Delhi's "all possible support" to Sri Lanka for mitigating the effects of the pandemic. The readout of the conversation released by Prime Minister's office said, "Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke on phone today with H.E. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka, regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its likely health and economic impacts in the region. "

Indian envoy to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay visits church hit by terror attack in first engagement

PM Narendra Modi on Saturday had a telephonic conversation with Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka, regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its likely health and economic impacts in the region, reported news agency ANI.

PM Narendra Modi on Saturday had a telephonic conversation with Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka, regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its likely health and economic impacts in the region, reported news agency ANI. According to the report, both the leaders also discussed the possibilities of promoting investments and value-addition in Sri Lanka by the Indian private sector. PM also assured the Sri Lankan President that India would continue to provide all possible support to Sri Lanka for mitigating the effects of COVID. Both leaders agreed on the need to accelerate Indian-assisted development projects in Sri Lanka.

PM Modi assures all possible support to Sri Lanka in COVID-19 battle

India's envoy to Morocco Shambhu S Kumaran has said that the coronavirus pandemic reinforced India's image as a responsible international stakeholder, and corroborated its ability to support African countries.

India's envoy to Morocco Shambhu S Kumaran has said that the coronavirus pandemic reinforced India's image as a responsible international stakeholder, and corroborated its ability to support African countries. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Rabat, Ambassador Kumaran said India has sent 6 million units of HCQ to the North African country and has offered training of Morrocans under its eITEC programme. As many as 140 Indians have registered for repatriation from the country. WION: How are both countries cooperating to deal with COVID? Shambhu S Kumaran: We had received a request for HCQ from Morocco -- 6 million units. These have now been delivered and an export licence was issued about two weeks ago. Delivery has been completed. That is one significant manifestation of our support to Morocco in the current crisis. We are trying to deliver our eITEC courses, our capacity building courses. One of the representatives of Morocco's ministry of health had attended the course that was recently offered. We want to expand telemedicine cooperation, for which we signed MoU in 2017 and we trying to develop avenues of cooperation. WION: How is the mission reaching out to the stranded Indians? Shambhu S Kumaran: There are two kinds groups in the Indian community. One is a community that has been settled in Morocco for a very long time. The number of community members have dwindled with years. But we have a few hundred families, who are still in Morocco and continue to contribute to the society and the economy. We have a class of Indian businessmen, tourist and professionals and unfortunately -- they have been stranded here. We had open registration for a potential repatriation flight and received 140 registration and that is the kind of numbers we are looking at. WION: Any Indian infected with COVID-19? When does mission plan to start repatriation? Shambhu S Kumaran: Thankfully, at the moment we have no infection amongst the Indians and that includes, embassy personnel and families and the ones I mentioned. With regard to the repatriation and evacuation flight, we are strongly engaged with the authorities in India, with the MEA and all the other colleagues from the government and exploring best possible. There are some constraints in terms of limited numbers. Indians here are from different states, so we do not have numbers to operate point to point flight which was done at first. But hopeful incoming phases we will be able to accommodate a flight here and I am strongly engaged with my colleagues in India to try and materialise that flight. WION: How has the situation been in the country? Any models we can follow? Shambhu S Kumaran: The situation in Morocco is reasonably under control. The numbers are not insignificant, however a decline in trend in new infections. The recovery rate is very good. The mortality rate is declining to close to zero. So positive signs, however, they had lockdown for two months and just a day before yesterday they decided to extend the lockdown for three weeks till June 10. The containment strategy is similar to the ones that India has followed. We are monitoring any innovative methods they have but at the moment nothing specific. WION: How has the condition of the Indian diplomats been? Shambhu S Kumaran: We try to prioritise interface with Indians. Indian diplomats in the mission have been in constant and regular touch, we try to keep morale high. They are in a difficult situation as you understand -- as they are separated from families and trying to survive in a situation under the lockdown. With regard to work, a lot of the work has shifted online, communicated a lot through email. We have a video conference and other such methods which has been used increasingly. I think the intensity of work has declined a bit but hopeful of more and more interaction coming ahead. WION: How has India been reaching to Africa and that part of Africa? How it has been received? Shambhu S Kumaran: Pandemic has reinforced India's image as a very responsible international stakeholder. We have been able to convey our ability to support other countries in Africa who are in need, despite the fact we have great need of our own and that has contrasted very well with some of the other countries approach the problem. So think, we reinvigorated India's role in Africa and it has given us further strength as we move ahead.

New Delhi is supporting African countries during coronavirus pandemic, says India's envoy to Morocco

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India.

The country has so far reported 427 cases of COVID-19.

Oli's remarks came amid Nepal's border row with India after the construction of a key road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand.

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Oli on Tuesday even asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts, as his Cabinet endorsed a new political map showing the three areas as Nepalese territory.

For the uninitiated, the Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory - India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district.

India has said that the recently-inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand lies completely within its territory. Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane last week said that there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to India's newly-inaugurated road linking Lipulekh Pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter. 
He said there was no dispute whatsoever between India and Nepal in the area and road laid was very much within the Indian side.

But the question arises -- the long standing issue between India and Nepal could have been resolved without the theatrics. Why has Nepal now resorted to this, when it should be fighting the pandemic?

Or has it been told to behave a certain way?

Interestingly, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal was recently seen holding a series of meetings with senior members of Nepal's ruling party -- a sign of clear interference by China in Nepal's domestic politics.

It is also believed that China engineered the grand alliance of two of the biggest communist parties in Nepal. In 2018, KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal -- better known as Prachanda -- had joined hands to form the Nepal Communist Party.

The alliance managed to win power. But the infighting has not stopped.

Reports say Pushpa Kamal Dahal wanted Oli to step down.

So, if other reports are to be believed, facing the risk of a potential collapse of his government, the prime minister of Nepal seems to have taken a tough stand against India.

The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India. The country has so far reported 427 cases of COVID-19. Oli's remarks came amid Nepal's border row with India after the construction of a key road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand. Oli on Tuesday even asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts, as his Cabinet endorsed a new political map showing the three areas as Nepalese territory. For the uninitiated, the Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory - India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district. India has said that the recently-inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand lies completely within its territory. Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane last week said that there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to India's newly-inaugurated road linking Lipulekh Pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter. He said there was no dispute whatsoever between India and Nepal in the area and road laid was very much within the Indian side. But the question arises -- the long standing issue between India and Nepal could have been resolved without the theatrics. Why has Nepal now resorted to this, when it should be fighting the pandemic? Or has it been told to behave a certain way? Interestingly, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal was recently seen holding a series of meetings with senior members of Nepal's ruling party -- a sign of clear interference by China in Nepal's domestic politics. It is also believed that China engineered the grand alliance of two of the biggest communist parties in Nepal. In 2018, KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal -- better known as Prachanda -- had joined hands to form the Nepal Communist Party. The alliance managed to win power. But the infighting has not stopped. Reports say Pushpa Kamal Dahal wanted Oli to step down. So, if other reports are to be believed, facing the risk of a potential collapse of his government, the prime minister of Nepal seems to have taken a tough stand against India. The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year. (with inputs from agencies)

Who, and what, is the reason of Nepal's changed attitude towards India?

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