As India prepares for Trump visit, Sabarmati Ashram gets makeover

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck.&nbsp;

A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences".

The source added, "we look to the future and seek to achieve a win-win solution for both side" and as we do that, we don't want comprises and are "not in a hurry to rush into a trade deal on the eve of the visit".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-trumps-agra-visit-500-cusecs-of-water-released-into-yamuna-to-tackle-foul-smell-281629">Ahead of Trump's Agra visit, 500 cusecs of water released into Yamuna to tackle 'foul smell'</a>

Asked, if the deal is stuck, the source said, "not correct to say India-US trade deal is stuck. It is an ongoing process. Both ministers have agreed to talk and look at a larger Free trade agreement".

Earlier today, US President Trump said, he looks forward to a major trade deal later.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-signals-very-big-trade-deal-with-india-before-us-presidential-elections-281582">Trump signals 'very big' trade deal with India before US presidential elections</a>

Trump said, "Well, we can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on. We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-full-swing-ahead-of-us-president-donald-trumps-india-visit-281468">India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during US president's Ahmedabad visit</a>

India-US trade has been growing more than 10 per cent per annum over the past 2 years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's 6th largest importer of crude oil and India is now its 4th largest customer.

India is also keen that US restores Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which is Washington's largest and oldest US trade preference program which was withdrawn last year for India.

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck. A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences".

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, India has said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal and the deal is not stuck. A government source told WION that "both sides want to reach an understanding with outcomes that balance both sides" and US and India "don't want to rush into the deal as the issues are complicated with many decisions having an impact on people's lives and long term economic consequences". The source added, "we look to the future and seek to achieve a win-win solution for both side" and as we do that, we don't want comprises and are "not in a hurry to rush into a trade deal on the eve of the visit". Also read: Ahead of Trump's Agra visit, 500 cusecs of water released into Yamuna to tackle 'foul smell' Asked, if the deal is stuck, the source said, "not correct to say India-US trade deal is stuck. It is an ongoing process. Both ministers have agreed to talk and look at a larger Free trade agreement". Earlier today, US President Trump said, he looks forward to a major trade deal later. Also read: Trump signals 'very big' trade deal with India before US presidential elections Trump said, "Well, we can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on. We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India." Also read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during US president's Ahmedabad visit India-US trade has been growing more than 10 per cent per annum over the past 2 years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's 6th largest importer of crude oil and India is now its 4th largest customer. India is also keen that US restores Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which is Washington's largest and oldest US trade preference program which was withdrawn last year for India.

'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump will inaugurate the world's largest cricket stadium when he arrives in Ahmedabad, the home base of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday at the start of a two-day visit aimed at smoothing ties strained by trade disputes.

Making his first official trip to the world's largest democracy, Trump is also expected to visit the humble abode of India's independence hero Mahatma Gandhi in Ahmedabad.

The leaders of China, Japan and Israel have all visited Ahmedabad since Modi became prime minister. It is the biggest city in Gujarat, the western state where Modi made his mark as chief minister before his party swept to power in 2014.

Authorities in Ahmedabad expect to spend around 800 million to 850 million Indian rupees ($11-12 million) on preparations for the visit by the American president that is likely to last around three hours, two government officials with direct knowledge of the plans told Reuters.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-india-visit-news-high-profile-indian-americans-who-will-accompany-donald-trump-in-his-visit-to-india-281015">Several Indian-Americans to accompany President Trump during India visit</a>

The sum is equivalent to equivalent to about 1.5 per cent of the annual budget for the home ministry in Gujarat.

Security-related costs, with more than 12,000 police officers expected to be deployed, will account for almost half the expense, said the officials, who declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak publicly about the visit.

Ahmedabad municipal commissioner Vijay Nehra, the city's top civic official, told Reuters that authorities had already spent around 300 million rupees ($4.2 million) on widening roads and improving infrastructure around the new cricket stadium.

With capacity for 110,000 spectators, the Motera Stadium will dislodge the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the world's largest cricket stadium.

"Eighteen roads of about 20 kilometers (12 miles) in length from Ahmedabad Airport to Motera Stadium have been widened or re-laid," Nehra said, adding that the improvements had been planned before Trump's visit was confirmed.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-ahemdabad-in-full-swing-ahead-of-trumps-maiden-visit-to-india-280972">Ahemdabad - Preparations in full swing ahead of Trump's maiden visit to India</a>

A further 60 million Indian rupees ($840,000) will go on "beautification" of the city, said Nehra, including erecting the wall to spare Trump's view.

Ashok Brahmbhatt, secretary of Gujarat Cricket Association, which owns the Motera Stadium set to be opened by Trump, said it would also spend tens of millions of rupees during the event.

Nehra tweeted on Sunday that more than 100,000 participants had registered so far to greet Trump as he heads from the airport to the city centre. Trump said last week Modi had promised "millions and millions" of people would line his route.

Trump may also visit the famous Taj Mahal monument in the city of Agra, and all leave for police officers in that city has been cancelled, according to a document seen by Reuters.

US President Donald Trump will inaugurate the world's largest cricket stadium when he arrives in Ahmedabad, the home base of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday at the start of a two-day visit aimed at smoothing ties strained by trade disputes.

US President Donald Trump will inaugurate the world's largest cricket stadium when he arrives in Ahmedabad, the home base of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday at the start of a two-day visit aimed at smoothing ties strained by trade disputes. Making his first official trip to the world's largest democracy, Trump is also expected to visit the humble abode of India's independence hero Mahatma Gandhi in Ahmedabad. The leaders of China, Japan and Israel have all visited Ahmedabad since Modi became prime minister. It is the biggest city in Gujarat, the western state where Modi made his mark as chief minister before his party swept to power in 2014. Authorities in Ahmedabad expect to spend around 800 million to 850 million Indian rupees ($11-12 million) on preparations for the visit by the American president that is likely to last around three hours, two government officials with direct knowledge of the plans told Reuters. Also read: Several Indian-Americans to accompany President Trump during India visit The sum is equivalent to equivalent to about 1.5 per cent of the annual budget for the home ministry in Gujarat. Security-related costs, with more than 12,000 police officers expected to be deployed, will account for almost half the expense, said the officials, who declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak publicly about the visit. Ahmedabad municipal commissioner Vijay Nehra, the city's top civic official, told Reuters that authorities had already spent around 300 million rupees ($4.2 million) on widening roads and improving infrastructure around the new cricket stadium. With capacity for 110,000 spectators, the Motera Stadium will dislodge the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the world's largest cricket stadium. "Eighteen roads of about 20 kilometers (12 miles) in length from Ahmedabad Airport to Motera Stadium have been widened or re-laid," Nehra said, adding that the improvements had been planned before Trump's visit was confirmed. Also read: Ahemdabad - Preparations in full swing ahead of Trump's maiden visit to India A further 60 million Indian rupees ($840,000) will go on "beautification" of the city, said Nehra, including erecting the wall to spare Trump's view. Ashok Brahmbhatt, secretary of Gujarat Cricket Association, which owns the Motera Stadium set to be opened by Trump, said it would also spend tens of millions of rupees during the event. Nehra tweeted on Sunday that more than 100,000 participants had registered so far to greet Trump as he heads from the airport to the city centre. Trump said last week Modi had promised "millions and millions" of people would line his route. Trump may also visit the famous Taj Mahal monument in the city of Agra, and all leave for police officers in that city has been cancelled, according to a document seen by Reuters.

Going to India: Trump set to open world's biggest cricket stadium

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say.

India, the world's largest milk-producing nation, has traditionally restricted dairy imports to protect the livelihoods of 80 million rural households involved in the industry.

But Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to pull all the stops for the US&nbsp;president's Feb. 24-25 visit, aimed at rebuilding bonds between the world's largest democracies.

In 2019, Trump suspended India's special trade designation that dated back to 1970s, after Modi put price caps on medical devices, such as cardiac stents and knee implants, and introduced new data localization requirements and e-commerce restrictions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-drops-india-from-developing-nations-list-barring-trade-benefits-280252">US drops India from developing nations list barring trade benefits</a>

Trump's trip to India has raised hopes that he would restore some of the country's US&nbsp;trade preferences, in exchange for tariff reductions and other concessions.

The United States is India's second-largest trade partner after China, and bilateral goods and services trade climbed to a record $142.6 billion in 2018. The United States had a $23.2 billion goods trade deficit in 2019 with India, its 9th largest trading partner in goods.

India has offered to allow imports of US&nbsp;chicken legs, turkey and produce such as blueberries and cherries, Indian government sources said and has offered to cut tariffs on chicken legs from 100 per cent&nbsp;to 25 per cent. US&nbsp;negotiators want that tariff cut to 10 per cent.

The Modi government is also offering to allow some access to India's dairy market, but with a 5 per cent&nbsp;tariff and quotas, the sources said. But dairy imports would need a certificate they are not derived from animals that have consumed feeds that include internal organs, blood meal or tissues of ruminants.

New Delhi has also offered to lower its 50 per cent tariffs on very large motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson, a tax that was a particular irritant for Trump, who has labelled India the "tariff king." The change would be largely symbolic because few such motorcycles are sold in India.

Trump will be feted in Modi's home state of Gujarat, then hold talks in New Delhi and attend a reception that the hosts have promised will be bigger than the one organised for former president Barack Obama in 2015.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-indo-us-trade-deal-likely-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-sources-278891">Indo-US trade deal likely during Donald Trump's India visit</a>

Enough for Lighthizer

But it is far from clear whether India's offers will be enough to satisfy US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who cancelled plans for a trip to India this week. Instead, he has held telephone talks with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

The US&nbsp;dairy industry remained sceptical on Thursday that a viable deal is at hand.

"We're always looking for market access, but in terms of India, as of today I'm not aware of any real progress going on," said Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association and a member of USTR's agricultural trade policy advisory committee.

Dykes said the US&nbsp;dairy industry was looking for access in viable commercial quantities.

A USTR spokesman and India's trade ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Privacy law complications

An Indian parliament panel is reviewing a draft data privacy law that imposes stringent controls over cross-border data flows and gives the government powers to seek user data from companies.

It is not clear whether it will be passed, or in what form, but the possibilities have unnerved US&nbsp;companies and could raise compliance requirements for Google, Amazon.com Inc, and Facebook.

The draft law is not part of the trade discussions, Indian officials say, because the issue is too difficult to resolve at the same time.

"The privacy and localization piece will be raised independently and in concert with the trade discussions," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the US&nbsp;administration's thinking.

Trump on Tuesday was non-committal about sealing a trade deal before his visit. "If we can make the right deal, we'll do it," he told reporters.

Two US&nbsp;sources said progress had been made on proposed alterations to the medical device price caps. India's new import tariffs on medical devices, walnuts, toys, electronics and other products on Feb. 1 surprised US&nbsp;negotiators.

The new tariffs were aimed at China, which also makes medical devices, according to an Indian government source. "We have to protect our market and our companies," the source said.

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say.

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say. India, the world's largest milk-producing nation, has traditionally restricted dairy imports to protect the livelihoods of 80 million rural households involved in the industry. But Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to pull all the stops for the US president's Feb. 24-25 visit, aimed at rebuilding bonds between the world's largest democracies. In 2019, Trump suspended India's special trade designation that dated back to 1970s, after Modi put price caps on medical devices, such as cardiac stents and knee implants, and introduced new data localization requirements and e-commerce restrictions. Also read: US drops India from developing nations list barring trade benefits Trump's trip to India has raised hopes that he would restore some of the country's US trade preferences, in exchange for tariff reductions and other concessions. The United States is India's second-largest trade partner after China, and bilateral goods and services trade climbed to a record $142.6 billion in 2018. The United States had a $23.2 billion goods trade deficit in 2019 with India, its 9th largest trading partner in goods. India has offered to allow imports of US chicken legs, turkey and produce such as blueberries and cherries, Indian government sources said and has offered to cut tariffs on chicken legs from 100 per cent to 25 per cent. US negotiators want that tariff cut to 10 per cent. The Modi government is also offering to allow some access to India's dairy market, but with a 5 per cent tariff and quotas, the sources said. But dairy imports would need a certificate they are not derived from animals that have consumed feeds that include internal organs, blood meal or tissues of ruminants. New Delhi has also offered to lower its 50 per cent tariffs on very large motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson, a tax that was a particular irritant for Trump, who has labelled India the "tariff king." The change would be largely symbolic because few such motorcycles are sold in India. Trump will be feted in Modi's home state of Gujarat, then hold talks in New Delhi and attend a reception that the hosts have promised will be bigger than the one organised for former president Barack Obama in 2015. Also read: Indo-US trade deal likely during Donald Trump's India visit Enough for Lighthizer But it is far from clear whether India's offers will be enough to satisfy US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who cancelled plans for a trip to India this week. Instead, he has held telephone talks with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The US dairy industry remained sceptical on Thursday that a viable deal is at hand. "We're always looking for market access, but in terms of India, as of today I'm not aware of any real progress going on," said Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association and a member of USTR's agricultural trade policy advisory committee. Dykes said the US dairy industry was looking for access in viable commercial quantities. A USTR spokesman and India's trade ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Privacy law complications An Indian parliament panel is reviewing a draft data privacy law that imposes stringent controls over cross-border data flows and gives the government powers to seek user data from companies. It is not clear whether it will be passed, or in what form, but the possibilities have unnerved US companies and could raise compliance requirements for Google, Amazon.com Inc, and Facebook. The draft law is not part of the trade discussions, Indian officials say, because the issue is too difficult to resolve at the same time. "The privacy and localization piece will be raised independently and in concert with the trade discussions," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the US administration's thinking. Trump on Tuesday was non-committal about sealing a trade deal before his visit. "If we can make the right deal, we'll do it," he told reporters. Two US sources said progress had been made on proposed alterations to the medical device price caps. India's new import tariffs on medical devices, walnuts, toys, electronics and other products on Feb. 1 surprised US negotiators. The new tariffs were aimed at China, which also makes medical devices, according to an Indian government source. "We have to protect our market and our companies," the source said.

India offers US dairy, chicken access in bid for elusive trade deal with Trump

India ranked 77th on a sustainability index that takes into account per capita carbon emissions and ability of children in a nation to live healthy lives and was placed 131st on a ranking that measures the best chance at survival and well-being for children, according to a UN-backed report.

The report was released on Wednesday by a commission of over 40 child and adolescent health experts from around the world.

It was commissioned by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-warns-overseas-virus-spread-may-be-tip-of-the-iceberg-279719">World Health Organization</a> (WHO), UN Children's Fund (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unicef-deputy-director-justin-forsyth-steps-down-33748">UNICEF</a>) and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walk-to-work-clean-your-house-live-longer-lancet-20535/amp">Lancet medical journal</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wef-ranks-india-at-62nd-place-on-inclusive-development-index-30347">WEF ranks India at 62nd place on Inclusive Development Index behind Pakistan</a>

In the report assessing the capacity of 180 countries to ensure that their youngsters can survive and thrive, India ranks 77th on the Sustainability Index and 131 on the Flourishing Index, it said.

Flourishing is the geometric mean of Surviving and Thriving.

For Surviving, the authors selected maternal survival, survival in children younger than 5 years old, suicide, access to maternal and child health services, basic hygiene and sanitation, and lack of extreme poverty.

For Thriving, the domains were educational achievement, growth and nutrition, reproductive freedom, and protection from violence.

Under the Sustainability Index, the authors noted that promoting today's national conditions for children to survive and thrive must not come at the cost of eroding future global conditions for children's ability to flourish.

The Sustainability Index ranks countries on excess carbon emissions compared with the 2030 target. This provides a convenient and available proxy for a country's contribution to sustainability in future.

The report noted that under realistic assumptions about possible trajectories towards sustainable greenhouse gas emissions, models predict that global carbon emissions need to be reduced from 397 gigatonnes&nbsp;to 228 gigatonnes per year by 2030 to maintain even a 66 per cent chance of keeping global warming below 15C.

It said that the world's survival depended on children being able to flourish, but no country is doing enough to give them a sustainable future.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-landmark-assessment-un-body-suggests-ways-to-avoid-food-insecurity-worst-impacts-of-climate-change-241492">In landmark assessment, UN body suggests ways to avoid food insecurity, worst impacts of climate change</a>

"No country in the world is currently providing the conditions we need to support every child to grow up and have a healthy future," said Anthony Costello, Professor of Global Health and Sustainability at University College London, one of the lead authors of the report.

"Especially, they're under immediate threat from climate change and from commercial marketing, which has grown hugely in the last decade," said Costello&nbsp;former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-warns-overseas-virus-spread-may-be-tip-of-the-iceberg-279719">WHO</a> Director of Mother, Child and Adolescent health.

Norway leads the table for survival, health, education and nutrition rates followed by South Korea and the Netherlands. Central African Republic, Chad and Somalia come at the bottom.

However, when taking into account per capita CO2 emissions, these top countries trail behind, with Norway 156th, the Republic of Korea 166th and the Netherlands 160th.

Each of the three emits 210 per cent more CO2 per capita than their 2030 target, the data shows, while the US, Australia, and Saudi Arabia are among the 10 worst emitters. The lowest emitters are Burundi, Chad and Somalia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-will-affect-half-of-south-asia-reduce-economic-growth-world-bank-147749">Climate change will affect half of South Asia, India to be worst-hit: World Bank</a>

According to the report, the only countries on track to beat CO2 emission per capita targets by 2030, while also performing fairly ? within the top 70 ? on child flourishing measures are: Albania, Armenia, Grenada, Jordan, Moldova, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Uruguay and Vietnam.

"More than 2 billion people live in countries where development is hampered by humanitarian crises, conflicts, and natural disasters, problems increasingly linked with climate change," said Minister Awa Coll-Seck from Senegal, Co-Chair of the commission.

The report also highlights the distinct threat posed to children from harmful marketing.

Evidence suggests that children in some countries see as many as 30,000 advertisements on television alone in a single year, while youth exposure to vaping (e-cigarettes) advertisements increased by more than 250 per cent in the US over two years, reaching more than 24 million young people.

Studies in Australia, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and the US&nbsp;among many others&nbsp;have shown that self-regulation has not hampered commercial ability to advertise to children.

Children's exposure to commercial marketing of junk food and sugary beverages is associated with purchase of unhealthy foods and overweight and obesity, linking predatory marketing to the alarming rise in childhood obesity, it said.

The number of obese children and adolescents increased from 11 million in 1975 to 124 million in 2016 ? an 11-fold increase, with dire individual and societal costs, the report said.

To protect children, the authors call for a new global movement driven by and for children.

Specific recommendations include stopping CO2 emissions with the utmost urgency, to ensure children have a future on this planet; placing children and adolescents at the centre of global efforts to achieve sustainable development, the report said.

New policies and investment in all sectors to work towards child health and rights; incorporating children's voices into policy decisions and tightening national regulation of harmful commercial marketing, supported by a new Optional Protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, it said.

India ranked 77th on a sustainability index that takes into account per capita carbon emissions and ability of children in a nation to live healthy lives and was placed 131st on a ranking that measures the best chance at survival and well-being for children, according to a UN-backed report.

India ranked 77th on a sustainability index that takes into account per capita carbon emissions and ability of children in a nation to live healthy lives and was placed 131st on a ranking that measures the best chance at survival and well-being for children, according to a UN-backed report. The report was released on Wednesday by a commission of over 40 child and adolescent health experts from around the world. It was commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Lancet medical journal. Also read: WEF ranks India at 62nd place on Inclusive Development Index behind Pakistan In the report assessing the capacity of 180 countries to ensure that their youngsters can survive and thrive, India ranks 77th on the Sustainability Index and 131 on the Flourishing Index, it said. Flourishing is the geometric mean of Surviving and Thriving. For Surviving, the authors selected maternal survival, survival in children younger than 5 years old, suicide, access to maternal and child health services, basic hygiene and sanitation, and lack of extreme poverty. For Thriving, the domains were educational achievement, growth and nutrition, reproductive freedom, and protection from violence. Under the Sustainability Index, the authors noted that promoting today's national conditions for children to survive and thrive must not come at the cost of eroding future global conditions for children's ability to flourish. The Sustainability Index ranks countries on excess carbon emissions compared with the 2030 target. This provides a convenient and available proxy for a country's contribution to sustainability in future. The report noted that under realistic assumptions about possible trajectories towards sustainable greenhouse gas emissions, models predict that global carbon emissions need to be reduced from 397 gigatonnes to 228 gigatonnes per year by 2030 to maintain even a 66 per cent chance of keeping global warming below 15C. It said that the world's survival depended on children being able to flourish, but no country is doing enough to give them a sustainable future. Also read: In landmark assessment, UN body suggests ways to avoid food insecurity, worst impacts of climate change "No country in the world is currently providing the conditions we need to support every child to grow up and have a healthy future," said Anthony Costello, Professor of Global Health and Sustainability at University College London, one of the lead authors of the report. "Especially, they're under immediate threat from climate change and from commercial marketing, which has grown hugely in the last decade," said Costello former WHO Director of Mother, Child and Adolescent health. Norway leads the table for survival, health, education and nutrition rates followed by South Korea and the Netherlands. Central African Republic, Chad and Somalia come at the bottom. However, when taking into account per capita CO2 emissions, these top countries trail behind, with Norway 156th, the Republic of Korea 166th and the Netherlands 160th. Each of the three emits 210 per cent more CO2 per capita than their 2030 target, the data shows, while the US, Australia, and Saudi Arabia are among the 10 worst emitters. The lowest emitters are Burundi, Chad and Somalia. Also read: Climate change will affect half of South Asia, India to be worst-hit: World Bank According to the report, the only countries on track to beat CO2 emission per capita targets by 2030, while also performing fairly ? within the top 70 ? on child flourishing measures are: Albania, Armenia, Grenada, Jordan, Moldova, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Uruguay and Vietnam. "More than 2 billion people live in countries where development is hampered by humanitarian crises, conflicts, and natural disasters, problems increasingly linked with climate change," said Minister Awa Coll-Seck from Senegal, Co-Chair of the commission. The report also highlights the distinct threat posed to children from harmful marketing. Evidence suggests that children in some countries see as many as 30,000 advertisements on television alone in a single year, while youth exposure to vaping (e-cigarettes) advertisements increased by more than 250 per cent in the US over two years, reaching more than 24 million young people. Studies in Australia, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and the US among many others have shown that self-regulation has not hampered commercial ability to advertise to children. Children's exposure to commercial marketing of junk food and sugary beverages is associated with purchase of unhealthy foods and overweight and obesity, linking predatory marketing to the alarming rise in childhood obesity, it said. The number of obese children and adolescents increased from 11 million in 1975 to 124 million in 2016 ? an 11-fold increase, with dire individual and societal costs, the report said. To protect children, the authors call for a new global movement driven by and for children. Specific recommendations include stopping CO2 emissions with the utmost urgency, to ensure children have a future on this planet; placing children and adolescents at the centre of global efforts to achieve sustainable development, the report said. New policies and investment in all sectors to work towards child health and rights; incorporating children's voices into policy decisions and tightening national regulation of harmful commercial marketing, supported by a new Optional Protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, it said.

India ranks 77th on sustainability, 131st in child flourishing index rankings: UN report

The month of February marks the first visit of US President Donald Trump to India, and to mark this occasion the Ministry of External Affairs came up with creative greetings in the form of multilingual welcome for him and First Lady Melania Trump.

The month of February marks the first visit of US President Donald Trump to India, and to mark this occasion the Ministry of External Affairs came up with creative greetings in the form of multilingual welcome for him and First Lady Melania Trump. The official public diplomacy Twitter account of the MEA, named ‘Indian Diplomacy’, posted online and requested people to tweet a video of themselves saying ‘Welcome to India President Trump’ in their mother tongues. Respondents have also been asked to mention the language in which they would be sending their wishes. Also Read: Trump's 36 hours in India will be 'brief but intense' President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS will be on their first visit to India from 24-25 February 2020 at the invitation of PM @narendramodi. India welcomes President @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS in our uniquely diverse way. #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/dxWXUHOYIj — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 19, 2020 × Welcoming President Trump in such an innovative manner, who will be making his maiden visit to India on 24 and 25 February is an initiative which the Indian public has taken on eagerly, with people sending personalised videos in Kashmiri, Garhwali and Kannada, while others sent written messages in Gujarati, Hindi, Tamil, Odia and Telugu. Watch | Indians welcome Donald Trump for two-day visit Diverse greetings sent to US President @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/u2eoSXBGjI — WION (@WIONews) February 20, 2020 × Donald Trump along with his wife Melania will be travelling to New Delhi and Ahemdabad on his two-day visit. A trip to the Sabarmati Ashram and signing a trade deal are also reportedly on the President's itinerary. I feel so proud when My Non Indian friends are sharing below pictures with me asking that “Hey Aditi, this is from your hometown - right?”🥰 yes, this is #MoteraStadium Ahmedabad 🇮🇳India. World's largest #Cricket stadium is ready to host @POTUS #NamasteTrump #AapnuAmdavad 😍 pic.twitter.com/pYtMScTDMp — Aditi Raval (@aditiraval) February 19, 2020 × Trump is also expected to address a public rally at the newly constructed Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, though the size of the crowd which is to welcome him there is still unclear. “He (Modi) said that we will have millions and millions of people. My only problem is that last night we probably had 40 or 50,000 people… I am not going to feel so good… There will be five to seven million people just from the airport to the new stadium,” Donald Trump told reporters.

Trump's visit to India celebrated in multilingual fashion

Three days after being denied entry into India, British parliamentarian Debbie Abrahams landed in Pakistan on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A self-proclaimed champion of social justice, Abrahams says she will be visiting Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to assess the human rights situation there.

On her arrival, miss Abrahams was accorded a warm welcome by the Director-General of Pak-based Jammu and Kashmir liberation cell - Fida Husain Kiani.

The website of the cell enumerates 6 detailed objectives with most of them revolving around the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-mp-abrahams-was-denied-entry-in-india-as-she-didnt-hold-valid-visa-indian-mission-281428">British MP Abrahams was denied entry in India as she didn't hold valid visa, says Indian Mission</a>

Abrahams was then provided with a platform to voice her grudges against India - a press briefing with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

During the conference, Abrahams drew parallels between how India and Pakistan deal with their problems differently. She said India should reciprocate Pakistan's approach.

It looks like Abrahams is playing to her support base back in her constituency of Oldham East and Saddleworth in Britain.&nbsp;

As per the 2011 census, minority ethnic groups make up 22.5 per cent of the population here and what is interesting is the fact that 10 per cent of them are of Pak-origin, 7.3 per cent are Bangladeshi immigrants while the Indian population here has remained static.

The population of Pak-origin people shot up from 6.3 per cent in 2001 to 10 per cent in 2011 and by all indications these figures have increased considerably in the last 9 years.

Debbie Abrahams seems to be addressing her voters. 
&nbsp;

Three days after being denied entry into India, British parliamentarian Debbie Abrahams landed in Pakistan on Wednesday. A self-proclaimed champion of social justice, Abrahams says she will be visiting Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to assess the human rights situation there.

Three days after being denied entry into India, British parliamentarian Debbie Abrahams landed in Pakistan on Wednesday. A self-proclaimed champion of social justice, Abrahams says she will be visiting Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to assess the human rights situation there. On her arrival, miss Abrahams was accorded a warm welcome by the Director-General of Pak-based Jammu and Kashmir liberation cell - Fida Husain Kiani. The website of the cell enumerates 6 detailed objectives with most of them revolving around the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan. Also read: British MP Abrahams was denied entry in India as she didn't hold valid visa, says Indian Mission Abrahams was then provided with a platform to voice her grudges against India - a press briefing with Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. During the conference, Abrahams drew parallels between how India and Pakistan deal with their problems differently. She said India should reciprocate Pakistan's approach. It looks like Abrahams is playing to her support base back in her constituency of Oldham East and Saddleworth in Britain. As per the 2011 census, minority ethnic groups make up 22.5 per cent of the population here and what is interesting is the fact that 10 per cent of them are of Pak-origin, 7.3 per cent are Bangladeshi immigrants while the Indian population here has remained static. The population of Pak-origin people shot up from 6.3 per cent in 2001 to 10 per cent in 2011 and by all indications these figures have increased considerably in the last 9 years. Debbie Abrahams seems to be addressing her voters.

British MP who was denied entry into India reaches Pakistan, says New Delhi should reciprocate Pak's approach

India's cabinet on Wednesday approved a plan to sign an initial pact on intellectual property rights with the United States, a government minister said, days ahead of a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The United States has long urged India to strengthen protection for intellectual property and that has been a cause of friction on top of trade disputes between the two countries.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said approval for an MoU with the United States was secured at a cabinet meeting presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India's cabinet on Wednesday approved a plan to sign an initial pact on intellectual property rights with the United States, a government minister said, days ahead of a visit by U.

India's cabinet on Wednesday approved a plan to sign an initial pact on intellectual property rights with the United States, a government minister said, days ahead of a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump. The United States has long urged India to strengthen protection for intellectual property and that has been a cause of friction on top of trade disputes between the two countries. Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said approval for an MoU with the United States was secured at a cabinet meeting presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India clears accord on intellectual property rights with US

The grammar of India's foreign policy has changed, the Modi government has changed that.

India's foreign policy is now muscular and three recent developments prove this contention.

A British Labour MP Debbie Abrahams has been in the news lately. Some of her tweets slamming the Indian government have been making headlines.

Abrahams claims she was denied entry into India despite having a valid visa. She says she was visiting India to meet her relatives but was stopped. She later tweeted an image of the visa which had been granted to her.

The Indian government has categorically countered this claim by releasing details of the cancelled visa.

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Abrahams was issued an e-business visa in October last year for business which was valid till October 2020 but was revoked on February 14 because she was reportedly indulging in activities which were against India's interests.

The home ministry says the British parliamentarian was duly informed, yet she arrived in Delhi and demanded a visa on arrival.

The question remains - did Debbie Abrahams come to India as a friend or a foe?

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-mp-abrahams-was-denied-entry-in-india-as-she-didnt-hold-valid-visa-indian-mission-281428">British MP denied entry as she didn't hold valid visa - Indian Mission</a>

On February 4, the Pakistan High Commission in London organized a seminar to attack India on Kashmir. Besides the Pak High Commissioner, those in attendance involved the President of Pak Occupied Kashmir Masood Khan and Abrahams.

Abrahams was also scheduled to travel to Islamabad after her India visit.

From the India side, the message is loud and clear, any attempt to attack India's sovereignty won't be tolerated.

In another example, the government of India on Monday summoned Turkey's envoy to India a day after Turkish President Erdogan visited Pakistan and compared the situation in Kashmir with the Gallipoli campaign of the second world war.

India responded firmly to this far-fetched comparison.

Yesterday, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that "India made a strong demarche with the Turkish government. This recent episode is but one more example of a pattern of Turkey interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. These remarks reflect neither an understanding of history nor of the conduct of diplomacy."

There's high-pitched rhetoric around Kashmir. The issue is invoked unfailingly in almost all forums where India is represented. Pakistan remains hyphenated, it dominates most questions aimed at India.&nbsp;

Something similar happened during the ongoing Munich Security Conference. US Senator Lindsey Graham had some an advice for India on how to resolve the Kashmir conflict in a style typical to US diplomacy.

The response by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar should settle the debate once and for all.&nbsp;

India will not compromise on Kashmir and will push back on unwarranted overtures.

The grammar of India's foreign policy has changed, the Modi government has changed that. India's foreign policy is now muscular and three recent developments prove this contention.

The grammar of India's foreign policy has changed, the Modi government has changed that. India's foreign policy is now muscular and three recent developments prove this contention. A British Labour MP Debbie Abrahams has been in the news lately. Some of her tweets slamming the Indian government have been making headlines. Abrahams claims she was denied entry into India despite having a valid visa. She says she was visiting India to meet her relatives but was stopped. She later tweeted an image of the visa which had been granted to her. The Indian government has categorically countered this claim by releasing details of the cancelled visa. × Abrahams was issued an e-business visa in October last year for business which was valid till October 2020 but was revoked on February 14 because she was reportedly indulging in activities which were against India's interests. The home ministry says the British parliamentarian was duly informed, yet she arrived in Delhi and demanded a visa on arrival. The question remains - did Debbie Abrahams come to India as a friend or a foe? Also read: British MP denied entry as she didn't hold valid visa - Indian Mission On February 4, the Pakistan High Commission in London organized a seminar to attack India on Kashmir. Besides the Pak High Commissioner, those in attendance involved the President of Pak Occupied Kashmir Masood Khan and Abrahams. Abrahams was also scheduled to travel to Islamabad after her India visit. From the India side, the message is loud and clear, any attempt to attack India's sovereignty won't be tolerated. In another example, the government of India on Monday summoned Turkey's envoy to India a day after Turkish President Erdogan visited Pakistan and compared the situation in Kashmir with the Gallipoli campaign of the second world war. India responded firmly to this far-fetched comparison. Yesterday, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that "India made a strong demarche with the Turkish government. This recent episode is but one more example of a pattern of Turkey interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. These remarks reflect neither an understanding of history nor of the conduct of diplomacy." There's high-pitched rhetoric around Kashmir. The issue is invoked unfailingly in almost all forums where India is represented. Pakistan remains hyphenated, it dominates most questions aimed at India. Something similar happened during the ongoing Munich Security Conference. US Senator Lindsey Graham had some an advice for India on how to resolve the Kashmir conflict in a style typical to US diplomacy. The response by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar should settle the debate once and for all. India will not compromise on Kashmir and will push back on unwarranted overtures.

India's changing foreign policy: More muscular, pushing back unwarranted overtures

Companies in India are projected to dole out an average salary hike of 9.1 per cent this year, the highest level in the Asia Pacific region, as they look for key talent and niche skills, says a report.

However, the quantum is lower than 9.3 per cent increase seen in 2019 and also the lowest in a decade.

Leading HR consultancy Aon's annual salary hike survey released on Tuesday also showed that around 39 per cent of the companies surveyed are expected to give as much as 10 per cent increase in pay.

The results are based on responses from over 1,000 organisations spread across more than 20 industries.

In the Asia-Pacific region, India is expected to dole out the highest salary hike at 9.1 per cent, followed by China at 6.3 per cent this year.

For India, the previous lowest quantum of the hike was 6.6 per cent in 2009, as per Aon.

As per the survey, Philippines is anticipated to see a salary rise of 5.8 per cent, followed by Malaysia (5.3 per cent), Singapore (3.8 per cent) and Australia (3.1 per cent) in 2020.

"Despite economic challenges in 2019, organisations in India are taking a positive view. Pay increases in India continue to be the highest in the region," Tzeitel Fernandes, Partner (Rewards Solutions) at Aon told reporters.

A big reason for India's higher salary increase, as compared to other growing economies, is the high inflation rate and the war for key talent and niche skills, Fernandes noted.

In 2019, companies in India gave an average pay increase of 9.3 per cent, reflecting a slowdown in the economy compared to 2018, the survey said.

According to the survey, 39 per cent of firms are expected to raise the salary over 10 per cent while 42 per cent would go for an increase between 8-10 per cent.

In the manufacturing segment, pharmaceuticals is expected to give the highest salary hike followed by FMCG and chemicals, among others.

E-commerce and professional services businesses are expected to give double-digit salary increase this year in the services sector.

"We see a reduction in the differences between pay increases across industries, with 85 per cent of the organisations projecting between 7-11 per cent, a sign of maturing business ecosystems.

"However, the premium for high performance and new-age skills continues to rise," Navneet Rattan, Director (Organisation, Performance and Rewards) at Aon India, said.

About business outlook, 92 per cent of the firms surveyed expect their business improving or stabilising in 2020 while the rest 8 per cent felt there would be a decline in business.&nbsp;

Companies in India are projected to dole out an average salary hike of 9.1 per cent this year, the highest level in the Asia Pacific region, as they look for key talent and niche skills, says a report.

Companies in India are projected to dole out an average salary hike of 9.1 per cent this year, the highest level in the Asia Pacific region, as they look for key talent and niche skills, says a report. However, the quantum is lower than 9.3 per cent increase seen in 2019 and also the lowest in a decade. Leading HR consultancy Aon's annual salary hike survey released on Tuesday also showed that around 39 per cent of the companies surveyed are expected to give as much as 10 per cent increase in pay. The results are based on responses from over 1,000 organisations spread across more than 20 industries. In the Asia-Pacific region, India is expected to dole out the highest salary hike at 9.1 per cent, followed by China at 6.3 per cent this year. For India, the previous lowest quantum of the hike was 6.6 per cent in 2009, as per Aon. As per the survey, Philippines is anticipated to see a salary rise of 5.8 per cent, followed by Malaysia (5.3 per cent), Singapore (3.8 per cent) and Australia (3.1 per cent) in 2020. "Despite economic challenges in 2019, organisations in India are taking a positive view. Pay increases in India continue to be the highest in the region," Tzeitel Fernandes, Partner (Rewards Solutions) at Aon told reporters. A big reason for India's higher salary increase, as compared to other growing economies, is the high inflation rate and the war for key talent and niche skills, Fernandes noted. In 2019, companies in India gave an average pay increase of 9.3 per cent, reflecting a slowdown in the economy compared to 2018, the survey said. According to the survey, 39 per cent of firms are expected to raise the salary over 10 per cent while 42 per cent would go for an increase between 8-10 per cent. In the manufacturing segment, pharmaceuticals is expected to give the highest salary hike followed by FMCG and chemicals, among others. E-commerce and professional services businesses are expected to give double-digit salary increase this year in the services sector. "We see a reduction in the differences between pay increases across industries, with 85 per cent of the organisations projecting between 7-11 per cent, a sign of maturing business ecosystems. "However, the premium for high performance and new-age skills continues to rise," Navneet Rattan, Director (Organisation, Performance and Rewards) at Aon India, said. About business outlook, 92 per cent of the firms surveyed expect their business improving or stabilising in 2020 while the rest 8 per cent felt there would be a decline in business.

Lowest in a decade! India Inc to dole out average 9.1% salary hike in 2020

Since 1947, relations between India and Pakistan has been through many high and low periods, but recent clashes could exacerbate matters and lead to a full-blown military conflict between the two nuclear-powered nations, as per the Munich Security Report 2020.

Since 1947, relations between India and Pakistan has been through many high and low periods, but recent clashes could exacerbate matters and lead to a full-blown military conflict between the two nuclear-powered nations, as per the Munich Security Report 2020. The report cited that in the event of a nuclear war between India and Pakistan, a death toll as high as 50-125 million people could be inevitable by 2025. As per the report, tensions between the main powers in the region are still active, namely India, Pakistan, and increasingly also China. "With India having completed its nuclear triad and Pakistan intending to do so, the risk of a regional nuclear arms race adds another delicate component to a worsening security situation," the report stated. Also read: India, Pakistan nuclear war could span for less than a week and 'kill 50-125 million people' - Study The report also takes into consideration the security situation in Afghanistan, which remains volatile to this day as well as the Pulwama attack which took place on February 14, 2019. The resulting escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan led to military exchanges between the two countries. "In this strained situation, any attack committed by the Kashmiri insurgency bears the risk of escalation, culminating into a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed powers," the report further stated. The report, after assuming that India and Pakistan have a minimum of 100 and 150 strategic nuclear weapons, stated that a nuclear war between the two countries will deliver 15 to 100 kilotons of nuclear warheads and result in 16-36 million tons of black carbon smoke being released. Watch: UN Chief Guterres calls for Indo-Pak dialogue This would result in a 20-35 per cent decline in surface sunlight, 15-30 per cent decline in productivity on land and 5-15 per cent in oceans, with 50-125 million immediate deaths. The release of the report follows closely after India paid tributes to the martyrs of the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel. The attack was orchestrated by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) who sent a suicide bomber who blew himself off along the Jammu-Srinagar highway. India's retaliation to the underhanded ploy came in the form of an airstrike, which decimated a JeM training facility in Balakot, Pakistan.

Indo-Pak nuclear war could kill 12 crore people in 2025: Report

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-holders-bengaluru-fc-thrash-jamshedpur-2-0-273328">ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0</a>

Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiyinFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiyinFC</a> put <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> under the pump tonight 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/ryJXt4aFXf">pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf</a>
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Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors.

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Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉 
 
Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AattamReloaded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AattamReloaded</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OruKuttiKathai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OruKuttiKathai</a> <a href="https://t.co/dYXpQcV7Hq">pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq</a>
— Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiyinFC/status/1229115102562926593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals. Also read- ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0 Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table. .@ChennaiyinFC put @ATKFC under the pump tonight 👊#ATKCFC #HeroISL #LetsFootball pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 16, 2020 × Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors. Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉 Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼#ATKCFC #AattamReloaded #OruKuttiKathai pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq — Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) February 16, 2020 × ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.

ISL: Chennaiyin FC crush ATK 3-1, keeps play-offs hope alive

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct".

Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation.

India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire."

Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.&nbsp;

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas.

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct". Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation. India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire." Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.

India protests ceasefire violation by Pakistan; calls killing of civilian against professional military conduct 

An Indian antitrust investigation of Amazon.com Inc and Walmart`s Flipkart has been put on hold by a court, three lawyers involved in the proceedings told Reuters on Friday.

Amazon this week challenged the investigation in a court in Bengaluru and the court has granted a stay of two months, according to a lawyer from P&amp;A Law Offices representing Amazon and two other legal counsels involved in the matter.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) last month ordered a probe into Amazon and Flipkart over alleged violations of competition law and certain discounting practices.

"This comes as a major relief," said the Amazon counsel, who declined to be named as he was not authorised to speak to media.

The CCI did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The CCI ordered its probe after a New Delhi-based trader group complained that the e-commerce giants were promoting select sellers and in turn hurting business for other smaller players.

Over three days of hearings in the Bengaluru court, Amazon denied the allegations and argued that CCI did not have sufficient evidence to order the probe.

A lawyer for the Indian trader group, Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh, said he would appeal against the court`s decision to put the investigation on hold.

Amazon and Flipkart have faced mounting criticism from Indian retailers which accuse them of violating local laws by racking up billions of dollars of losses to fund deep discounts and discriminating against small sellers.

The companies deny the allegations.

Last month, the trade minister said Amazon wasn`t doing India any "great favour" by announcing $1 billion in investment, laying bare the tensions with the U.S. online retailer. 
&nbsp;

An Indian antitrust investigation of Amazon.com Inc and Walmart`s Flipkart has been put on hold by a court, three lawyers involved in the proceedings told Reuters on Friday.

An Indian antitrust investigation of Amazon.com Inc and Walmart`s Flipkart has been put on hold by a court, three lawyers involved in the proceedings told Reuters on Friday. Amazon this week challenged the investigation in a court in Bengaluru and the court has granted a stay of two months, according to a lawyer from P&A Law Offices representing Amazon and two other legal counsels involved in the matter. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) last month ordered a probe into Amazon and Flipkart over alleged violations of competition law and certain discounting practices. "This comes as a major relief," said the Amazon counsel, who declined to be named as he was not authorised to speak to media. The CCI did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The CCI ordered its probe after a New Delhi-based trader group complained that the e-commerce giants were promoting select sellers and in turn hurting business for other smaller players. Over three days of hearings in the Bengaluru court, Amazon denied the allegations and argued that CCI did not have sufficient evidence to order the probe. A lawyer for the Indian trader group, Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh, said he would appeal against the court`s decision to put the investigation on hold. Amazon and Flipkart have faced mounting criticism from Indian retailers which accuse them of violating local laws by racking up billions of dollars of losses to fund deep discounts and discriminating against small sellers. The companies deny the allegations. Last month, the trade minister said Amazon wasn`t doing India any "great favour" by announcing $1 billion in investment, laying bare the tensions with the U.S. online retailer.

India court stalls Amazon, Flipkart antitrust probes: Report

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights.

Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years.

In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges.

Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education.

Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation.

Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education.

In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport.

President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks. The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights. Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years. In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges. Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education. Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation. Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education. In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport. President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India, Portugal ink seven pacts after Modi-Sousa talks

February 13th in History: France's first atom bomb test, assassination of Kim Jong-nam and more!

Though the number of subterranean species of fish known on Earth is about 250, they are usually minuscule - about a few inches long - and live in a world of permanent dark and scant food.&nbsp;

Breaking the norm is a cavefish from an underground chamber in northeastern India that is reported to be much bigger than its ichthyological kin. The Um Ladaw Cavefish grows to nearly half a metre in length and weighs about 10 times more than any known species. 
&nbsp; 
The discovery answers a few questions but raises more to replace them, especially ones pertaining to the size of the fish, their feeding habits, the way they adapted to live in these extremely extensive and deep caves - some of which have not yet been explored.

Though the creature is essentially blind and eyeless, it has an ability to sense light which is yet to be explained by science.

Vegetation washed underground by rain has been assumed by researchers as the primary food source of these creatures, though none were visible at the time of discovery according to Harries, a hobbyist cave explorer and marine biologist at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The winter dry season is the only time to visit the case as the whole area floods and becomes completely inaccessible during the monsoons. Despite such knowledgeable deductions about their size and diet, how they get so large and what they feed on remains a riddle.

The two longest known subterranean fish species before this discovery were the blind swamp eel native to Mexico’s Yucátan and the blind cave eel from western Australia. Both creatures are known for their both narrow and ribbon-like physique.

Scientists have reason to believe that that the cavefish may be different enough from surface-dwelling golden mahseer to qualify as a unique species, despite the fact that they look very alike in body shape and structure.

Though the number of subterranean species of fish known on Earth is about 250, they are usually minuscule - about a few inches long - and live in a world of permanent dark and scant food.

Though the number of subterranean species of fish known on Earth is about 250, they are usually minuscule - about a few inches long - and live in a world of permanent dark and scant food. Breaking the norm is a cavefish from an underground chamber in northeastern India that is reported to be much bigger than its ichthyological kin. The Um Ladaw Cavefish grows to nearly half a metre in length and weighs about 10 times more than any known species. The discovery answers a few questions but raises more to replace them, especially ones pertaining to the size of the fish, their feeding habits, the way they adapted to live in these extremely extensive and deep caves - some of which have not yet been explored. Though the creature is essentially blind and eyeless, it has an ability to sense light which is yet to be explained by science. Vegetation washed underground by rain has been assumed by researchers as the primary food source of these creatures, though none were visible at the time of discovery according to Harries, a hobbyist cave explorer and marine biologist at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland. The winter dry season is the only time to visit the case as the whole area floods and becomes completely inaccessible during the monsoons. Despite such knowledgeable deductions about their size and diet, how they get so large and what they feed on remains a riddle. The two longest known subterranean fish species before this discovery were the blind swamp eel native to Mexico’s Yucátan and the blind cave eel from western Australia. Both creatures are known for their both narrow and ribbon-like physique. Scientists have reason to believe that that the cavefish may be different enough from surface-dwelling golden mahseer to qualify as a unique species, despite the fact that they look very alike in body shape and structure.

World's largest cave fish found in Northeast India

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-collegium-reiterates-names-of-justices-bose-bopanna-for-elevation-to-apex-court-217242">Supreme Court collegium</a> has approved the proposal for appointment of nine Additional Judges of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/collegium-recommends-karnataka-hc-chief-justice-delhi-court-judge-for-elevation-to-sc-189766">Madras High Court</a> as Permanent Judges.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/does-office-of-cji-come-under-rti-act-supreme-court-bench-headed-by-chief-justice-examines-207703">judges who have been made</a> permanent are justices PT Asha, M Nirmal Kumar, Subramonium Prasad, N Anand Venkatesh, GK IIanthiraiyan, Krishnan Ramasamy, C Saravanan, B Pugalendhi and Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy.

The collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India S A Bobde, in a meeting on Wednesday also approved the proposal for appointment of Justice Rahul Chaturvedi, the Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court, as the Permanent Judge.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/transparency-vs-opaqueness-supreme-court-collegium-in-spotlight-190728">Supreme Court collegium in spotlight</a>

It has also approved a proposal for elevation of judicial officers IIesh Jashvantrai Vora, Gita Gopi, Dr Ashokkumar C Joshi and Rajendra M Sareen as judges of the Gujarat High Court.

Besides CJI Bobde, justices N V Ramana, Arun Mishra, R F Nariman and R Banumathi are part of the new 5-judge Collegium. 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court collegium has approved the proposal for appointment of nine Additional Judges of the Madras High Court as Permanent Judges. The judges who have been made permanent are justices PT Asha, M Nirmal Kumar, Subramonium Prasad, N Anand Venkatesh, GK IIanthiraiyan, Krishnan Ramasamy, C Saravanan, B Pugalendhi and Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy.

The Supreme Court collegium has approved the proposal for appointment of nine Additional Judges of the Madras High Court as Permanent Judges. The judges who have been made permanent are justices PT Asha, M Nirmal Kumar, Subramonium Prasad, N Anand Venkatesh, GK IIanthiraiyan, Krishnan Ramasamy, C Saravanan, B Pugalendhi and Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy. The collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India S A Bobde, in a meeting on Wednesday also approved the proposal for appointment of Justice Rahul Chaturvedi, the Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court, as the Permanent Judge. Also Read: Supreme Court collegium in spotlight It has also approved a proposal for elevation of judicial officers IIesh Jashvantrai Vora, Gita Gopi, Dr Ashokkumar C Joshi and Rajendra M Sareen as judges of the Gujarat High Court. Besides CJI Bobde, justices N V Ramana, Arun Mishra, R F Nariman and R Banumathi are part of the new 5-judge Collegium.

SC Collegium approves names of nine judges of Madras HC as permanent

The US has approved the sale of an integrated air defence weapon system to India for an estimated cost of $1.9 billion to modernise its armed forces and to expand its existing air <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indias-profile-is-attracting-engagement-on-military-issues-181801">defence architecture</a> to counter threats posed by air attacks.&nbsp;

The estimated cost of the entire system is $1.867 billion and the State Department has issued a statement saying that India intends to use these defence articles and services to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-military-expenditure-in-2018-stood-at-665-billion-pak-at-114-billion-sipri-214328">modernise its armed forces</a>, and to expand its existing air defence architecture to counter threats posed by air attack.

Massive military modernisation by China follows this proposed sale which is also exhibiting its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-our-target-is-5-billion-of-defence-export-in-next-five-years-narendra-modi-278885">military might</a> in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. The deal comes ahead of President Donald Trump's visit to India

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-aims-to-double-defence-exports-in-five-years-amid-resource-crunch-279876">India aims to double defence exports in five years amid resource crunch</a>

The US president will arrive in India on February 23 with&nbsp;both sides currently fine-tuning his schedule. The US and India are also to seal a trade deal during Trump's planned visit.

India’s military goal of updating its capability while further enhancing greater interoperability between India, the US, and other allies will be achieved by the proposed sale of the IADWS.

A request was also made by India for five AN/MPQ-64Fl Sentinel radar systems; three AMRAAM Guidance Sections; one hundred eighteen AMRAAM AIM-120C-7/C-8 missiles and one hundred thirty-four Stinger FIM-92L missiles.

Included in the comprehensive sale, among other things, are Vehicle Mounted Stinger Rapid Ranger Air Defence Systems and Dual Mount Stinger (DMS) Air Defence Systems.

The US has approved the sale of an integrated air defence weapon system to India for an estimated cost of $1.9 billion to modernise its armed forces and to expand its existing air defence architecture to counter threats posed by air attacks.

The US has approved the sale of an integrated air defence weapon system to India for an estimated cost of $1.9 billion to modernise its armed forces and to expand its existing air defence architecture to counter threats posed by air attacks. The estimated cost of the entire system is $1.867 billion and the State Department has issued a statement saying that India intends to use these defence articles and services to modernise its armed forces, and to expand its existing air defence architecture to counter threats posed by air attack. Massive military modernisation by China follows this proposed sale which is also exhibiting its military might in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. The deal comes ahead of President Donald Trump's visit to India Also Read: India aims to double defence exports in five years amid resource crunch The US president will arrive in India on February 23 with both sides currently fine-tuning his schedule. The US and India are also to seal a trade deal during Trump's planned visit. India’s military goal of updating its capability while further enhancing greater interoperability between India, the US, and other allies will be achieved by the proposed sale of the IADWS. A request was also made by India for five AN/MPQ-64Fl Sentinel radar systems; three AMRAAM Guidance Sections; one hundred eighteen AMRAAM AIM-120C-7/C-8 missiles and one hundred thirty-four Stinger FIM-92L missiles. Included in the comprehensive sale, among other things, are Vehicle Mounted Stinger Rapid Ranger Air Defence Systems and Dual Mount Stinger (DMS) Air Defence Systems.

US approves sale of  $1.9 billion worth integrated air defence weapon system to India

Vijay Mallya, liquor baron charged with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-adjourns-till-august-13-hearing-on-vijay-mallyas-plea-against-confiscation-of-properties-240124">fraud and money laundering</a> of around Rs 9,000 crores will be appearing in front of the UK High Court.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-moves-supreme-court-seeking-stay-on-confiscation-of-properties-238928">Mallya </a>has remained on bail since his arrest on an extradition warrant in April 2017 and has sought permission to appeal from the High Court against the extradition order.

A two-member High Court bench comprising Justices George Leggatt and Andrew Popplewell ruled last year that "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-court-orders-sale-of-force-india-yacht-linked-to-vijay-mallya-276912">arguments can be reasonably made</a>” on some aspects of the prima facie case ruling by Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot in her extradition order of December 2018.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-raids-vijay-mallyas-close-associate-239240">Enforcement Directorate raids Vijay Mallya's close associate</a>

Clare Montgomery, a member of Mallya's legal team, had questioned the basis on which Judge Arbuthnot had arrived at certain conclusions. She had further claimed that the Chief Magistrate had been "plain wrong" in accepting some of the Indian authorities' assertions.&nbsp;

Some of these assertions stated that Mallya had fraudulent intentions when he sought some of the loans for his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines and that he made misrepresentations to the banks to seek the loans and had no intentions of paying them back.

Mallya has been very public about his intention of reimbursing the money to the Indian banks and that he felt “vindicated” by the ruling.

High Court judges who accepted Judge Arbuthnot's conclusions on certain aspects of the extradition case had dismissed the grounds on which permission to appeal was sought, including the “extraneous circumstances” of Mallya being pursued by Indian authorities due to political reasons.

Other grounds on which claims were invoked included that Mallya would not receive a fair trial in India, a statement which was dismissed as the judges upheld Arbuthnot's ruling on the matter that the broad media interest in the case would guarantee justice.

Assurances from the government of India that Mallya would be held in safe prison conditions were also challenged by Mallya's legal team.

Judge Arbuthnot had found “clear evidence of dispersal and misapplication of the loan funds” after a year-long extradition trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London and accepted a prima facie case of fraud and a conspiracy to launder money against Mallya. A bail bond worth 650,000 pounds is involved with Mallya's bail as well as other restrictions on travel.

Vijay Mallya, liquor baron charged with fraud and money laundering of around Rs 9,000 crores will be appearing in front of the UK High Court. Mallya has remained on bail since his arrest on an extradition warrant in April 2017 and has sought permission to appeal from the High Court against the extradition order.

Vijay Mallya, liquor baron charged with fraud and money laundering of around Rs 9,000 crores will be appearing in front of the UK High Court. Mallya has remained on bail since his arrest on an extradition warrant in April 2017 and has sought permission to appeal from the High Court against the extradition order. A two-member High Court bench comprising Justices George Leggatt and Andrew Popplewell ruled last year that "arguments can be reasonably made” on some aspects of the prima facie case ruling by Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot in her extradition order of December 2018. Also Read: Enforcement Directorate raids Vijay Mallya's close associate Clare Montgomery, a member of Mallya's legal team, had questioned the basis on which Judge Arbuthnot had arrived at certain conclusions. She had further claimed that the Chief Magistrate had been "plain wrong" in accepting some of the Indian authorities' assertions. Some of these assertions stated that Mallya had fraudulent intentions when he sought some of the loans for his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines and that he made misrepresentations to the banks to seek the loans and had no intentions of paying them back. Mallya has been very public about his intention of reimbursing the money to the Indian banks and that he felt “vindicated” by the ruling. High Court judges who accepted Judge Arbuthnot's conclusions on certain aspects of the extradition case had dismissed the grounds on which permission to appeal was sought, including the “extraneous circumstances” of Mallya being pursued by Indian authorities due to political reasons. Other grounds on which claims were invoked included that Mallya would not receive a fair trial in India, a statement which was dismissed as the judges upheld Arbuthnot's ruling on the matter that the broad media interest in the case would guarantee justice. Assurances from the government of India that Mallya would be held in safe prison conditions were also challenged by Mallya's legal team. Judge Arbuthnot had found “clear evidence of dispersal and misapplication of the loan funds” after a year-long extradition trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London and accepted a prima facie case of fraud and a conspiracy to launder money against Mallya. A bail bond worth 650,000 pounds is involved with Mallya's bail as well as other restrictions on travel.

Vijay Mallya's appeal against extradition to India to be heard in UK court

India will be taking the second set of foreign envoys to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this week.

According to a source, "A group of envoys from different geographical regions will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir this week".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/envoys-visit-is-to-see-first-hand-efforts-to-normalise-the-situation-in-kashmir-mea-spokesperson-raveesh-kumar-273208">India had taken the first batch of 15 envoys on January 9 and 10</a>. These envoys included diplomats from countries of Latin America, Africa, ASEAN along with the envoy of the United States.&nbsp;

The demand for statehood, restoration of internet and development dominated the discourse during the envoy's meet with civil society in Srinagar last month.

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The US had called the visit an important step but raised concern over the detention of political leaders.

US State Department's Alice Wells, in a tweet, said, "Closely following @USAmbIndia &amp; other foreign diplomats’ recent trip to Jammu &amp; Kashmir. Important step. We remain concerned by the detention of political leaders and residents, and Internet restrictions. We look forward to a return to normalcy."

Last year in October, a group of European parliamentarians were taken on a visit but that was in their private capacity.

India will be taking the second set of foreign envoys to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this week. According to a source, "A group of envoys from different geographical regions will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir this week".

India will be taking the second set of foreign envoys to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this week. According to a source, "A group of envoys from different geographical regions will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir this week". India had taken the first batch of 15 envoys on January 9 and 10. These envoys included diplomats from countries of Latin America, Africa, ASEAN along with the envoy of the United States. The demand for statehood, restoration of internet and development dominated the discourse during the envoy's meet with civil society in Srinagar last month. × The US had called the visit an important step but raised concern over the detention of political leaders. US State Department's Alice Wells, in a tweet, said, "Closely following @USAmbIndia & other foreign diplomats’ recent trip to Jammu & Kashmir. Important step. We remain concerned by the detention of political leaders and residents, and Internet restrictions. We look forward to a return to normalcy." Last year in October, a group of European parliamentarians were taken on a visit but that was in their private capacity.

India to take second batch of envoys to Jammu and Kashmir 

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif.&nbsp;

This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year.

Pakistan had last year discontinued the train and bus services between both the countries after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-evacuation-of-pakistani-students-from-wuhan-eam-says-was-prepared-to-bring-back-everyone-from-the-neighbourhood-279282">On evacuation of Pakistani students from Wuhan, EAM says was prepared to bring back everyone from the neighbourhood</a>

Both Samjhauta Express, connecting Lahore with Delhi, and Thar Express - which connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan were shut down by Islamabad.

The 9-day, 808th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti will begin from February 24 and will go on till March 5.

The train service is expected to take Pakistani pilgrims from Attari to Ajmer. Pakistan is still to respond to the Indian proposal. Thousands of Pak pilgrims visit Ajmer each year for the annual Urs. The proposed connectivity can ease the pilgrimage.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif. This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year.

India has mooted a train service to ferry Pakistani pilgrims who will be coming for annual Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Sharif. This can be considered as a window for the resumption of suspended train services between India and Pakistan and a positive development in the back of strained ties since last year. Pakistan had last year discontinued the train and bus services between both the countries after New Delhi removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August. Also read: On evacuation of Pakistani students from Wuhan, EAM says was prepared to bring back everyone from the neighbourhood Both Samjhauta Express, connecting Lahore with Delhi, and Thar Express - which connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan were shut down by Islamabad. The 9-day, 808th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti will begin from February 24 and will go on till March 5. The train service is expected to take Pakistani pilgrims from Attari to Ajmer. Pakistan is still to respond to the Indian proposal. Thousands of Pak pilgrims visit Ajmer each year for the annual Urs. The proposed connectivity can ease the pilgrimage.

Ajmer Sharif Urs: India moots train service for Pak pilgrims, opens window for resumption of suspended services

India wants to double defence exports over the next five years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, as the country seeks to cut its import bill amid a funding crunch that has forced successive governments to go slow on new orders.

"For several years India has been a net importer of defence products. We have taken measures to change it since 2014," Modi said in the city of Lucknow, addressing the inaugural ceremony of India's 11th defence expo.

"Our aim is to increase exports of defence products to five billion dollars in five years," Modi said, adding India exports about 170 billion rupees ($2.4 billion) of defence products.

India's defence export ambitions are soaring as Asia's third-largest economy suffers its worst slowdown in decades with the country's economic growth dropping to 4.5 per cent in July-September quarter – its lowest quarterly growth in six years.

Between 2013 and 2017, India was the world's top arms importer, accounting for 12 per cent of total imports globally, with Russia, Israel and the United States among the top suppliers.

According to government data, India's major defence export customers include Italy, Sri Lanka, Russia and France.

The exports, primarily made by government ordnance factories and private firms such as L&amp;T, Bharat Forge and Tata group, including offshore patrol vessels, helicopters, coastal surveillance systems and spares for radar.

India's armed forces, saddled with outdated aircraft and warships, are in dire need of funds for modernisation.

However, with the government possibly set to break its own fiscal deficit target due to slowing growth, funds allocated for modernisation have been barely enough, experts have said.

Laxman Behera, research fellow at Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, said in a report released on Tuesday that India's defence resource crunch had been acute in recent years.

India's budget for modernisation of weapons, aircraft and warships announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last week stood at 906 billion rupees, out of a total allocated defence budget of 3,230.5 billion rupees.

With a meagre hike of 2.55 billion rupees over the revised estimates of last year's budget, said Laxman from IDSA called funding for the country's military "grossly under-provisioned."

US&nbsp;ambassador to India Kenneth Juster said lower offset obligations, a mandatory financial commitment locally by global firms partnering with India and less regulations can help India bring in billions of dollars in foreign investment.

India wants to double defence exports over the next five years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, as the country seeks to cut its import bill amid a funding crunch that has forced successive governments to go slow on new orders.

India wants to double defence exports over the next five years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, as the country seeks to cut its import bill amid a funding crunch that has forced successive governments to go slow on new orders. "For several years India has been a net importer of defence products. We have taken measures to change it since 2014," Modi said in the city of Lucknow, addressing the inaugural ceremony of India's 11th defence expo. "Our aim is to increase exports of defence products to five billion dollars in five years," Modi said, adding India exports about 170 billion rupees ($2.4 billion) of defence products. India's defence export ambitions are soaring as Asia's third-largest economy suffers its worst slowdown in decades with the country's economic growth dropping to 4.5 per cent in July-September quarter – its lowest quarterly growth in six years. Between 2013 and 2017, India was the world's top arms importer, accounting for 12 per cent of total imports globally, with Russia, Israel and the United States among the top suppliers. According to government data, India's major defence export customers include Italy, Sri Lanka, Russia and France. The exports, primarily made by government ordnance factories and private firms such as L&T, Bharat Forge and Tata group, including offshore patrol vessels, helicopters, coastal surveillance systems and spares for radar. India's armed forces, saddled with outdated aircraft and warships, are in dire need of funds for modernisation. However, with the government possibly set to break its own fiscal deficit target due to slowing growth, funds allocated for modernisation have been barely enough, experts have said. Laxman Behera, research fellow at Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, said in a report released on Tuesday that India's defence resource crunch had been acute in recent years. India's budget for modernisation of weapons, aircraft and warships announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last week stood at 906 billion rupees, out of a total allocated defence budget of 3,230.5 billion rupees. With a meagre hike of 2.55 billion rupees over the revised estimates of last year's budget, said Laxman from IDSA called funding for the country's military "grossly under-provisioned." US ambassador to India Kenneth Juster said lower offset obligations, a mandatory financial commitment locally by global firms partnering with India and less regulations can help India bring in billions of dollars in foreign investment.

India aims to double defence exports in five years amid resource crunch

Bangladesh produced a stunning fightback against India in Potchefstroom to win the Under-19 World Cup for the first time.&nbsp;

Set 178 to win, Bangladesh slumped to 106 for six before captain Akbar Ali got them back on track.

A brief rainbreak meant a revised target of 170 from 46 overs, with Rakibul Hasan scoring the winning run to secure a three-wicket victory.

India 177 all out in 50 overs (Y. Jaiswal 88, T. Varma 38, D. Jurel 22; A. Das 3-40, T. Sakib 2-28, S. Islam 2-31)

Bangladesh 170-7 in 42.1 overs (P. Emon 47, A. Ali 43 not out; R. Bishnoi 4-30, S. Mishra 2-25)

Bangladesh produced a stunning fightback against India in Potchefstroom to win the Under-19 World Cup for the first time. Set 178 to win, Bangladesh slumped to 106 for six before captain Akbar Ali got them back on track.

Bangladesh produced a stunning fightback against India in Potchefstroom to win the Under-19 World Cup for the first time. Set 178 to win, Bangladesh slumped to 106 for six before captain Akbar Ali got them back on track. A brief rainbreak meant a revised target of 170 from 46 overs, with Rakibul Hasan scoring the winning run to secure a three-wicket victory. India 177 all out in 50 overs (Y. Jaiswal 88, T. Varma 38, D. Jurel 22; A. Das 3-40, T. Sakib 2-28, S. Islam 2-31) Bangladesh 170-7 in 42.1 overs (P. Emon 47, A. Ali 43 not out; R. Bishnoi 4-30, S. Mishra 2-25)

Bangladesh beat India to win Under-19 cricket World Cup final

Delhi election: CM Kejriwal, President Kovind and others cast votes

Jaipur was formally accorded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbais-victorian-gothic-art-deco-buildings-get-unesco-world-heritage-tag-148123">World Heritage</a> City status on Wednesday by UNESCO.

UNESCO Director-General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/audrey-azoulay-confirmed-to-head-unesco-23935">Audrey Azoulay</a> presented the World <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unesco-declares-ahmedabad-mandu-best-heritage-city-168086">Heritage Certificate</a> for the walled city of Jaipur, to state's Urban Development and Housing (UDH) minister Shanti Dhariwal.

Speaking at the event, Azoulay said, "It is truly an honour and privilege to be here in Jaipur. I came here from our headquarters in Paris with a message to bring to the people of Jaipur the recognition of the international community for their outstanding efforts to preserve and to capitalize on cultural heritage."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unesco-names-jaipur-city-world-heritage-site-233594\">UNESCO names Jaipur city world heritage site</a>

"UNESCO is very proud to have since last summer the walled city of Jaipur inscribed on our world heritage list. Of course, Jaipur is an iconic city because of its architecture, forts and palaces. It is in everybody's imagination," she added.

Jaipur was formally accorded World Heritage City status on Wednesday by UNESCO. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay presented the World Heritage Certificate for the walled city of Jaipur, to state's Urban Development and Housing (UDH) minister Shanti Dhariwal.

Jaipur was formally accorded World Heritage City status on Wednesday by UNESCO. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay presented the World Heritage Certificate for the walled city of Jaipur, to state's Urban Development and Housing (UDH) minister Shanti Dhariwal. Speaking at the event, Azoulay said, "It is truly an honour and privilege to be here in Jaipur. I came here from our headquarters in Paris with a message to bring to the people of Jaipur the recognition of the international community for their outstanding efforts to preserve and to capitalize on cultural heritage." Also Read: UNESCO names Jaipur city world heritage site "UNESCO is very proud to have since last summer the walled city of Jaipur inscribed on our world heritage list. Of course, Jaipur is an iconic city because of its architecture, forts and palaces. It is in everybody's imagination," she added.

Walled city of Jaipur formally accorded World Heritage City status by UNESCO

Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij has said that out of 136 people who have returned from China in the state, 133 were found healthy. He said that three were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-health-department-registers-fir-against-fortis-hospital-26358">admitted in hospitals</a>, while samples of two have been found negative for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-temporarily-suspends-e-visa-facility-for-chinese-and-foreigners-residing-in-china-278144">Coronavirus</a>.

In a press release, Vij said, "Out of 136 people who have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-bans-export-of-protective-masks-clothing-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-277861">returned from China</a> in the state, three people have been admitted to hospitals in different districts, however, the presence of Coronavirus infection in two cases is negative, while the report of one is pending."

The Health Minister said, "Out of these remaining three people, one person is admitted to the isolation ward of a hospital in Gurugram, the second person is admitted to a hospital Karnal, and the third person is admitted to a hospital in Hisar."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-settles-on-standard-treatment-protocol-as-third-case-of-coronavirus-confirmed-278848">India settles on standard treatment protocol as third case of coronavirus confirmed</a>

"The Government has issued helpline numbers of all the districts, on which any person can give information in this regard," he added. 
The virus originated in Wuhan in December and has since then spread to various parts around the world.

China has imposed quarantine and travel restrictions, affecting the movement of 56 million people in more than a dozen cities, amid fears that the transmission rate will accelerate.

Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij has said that out of 136 people who have returned from China in the state, 133 were found healthy. He said that three were admitted in hospitals, while samples of two have been found negative for Coronavirus.

Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij has said that out of 136 people who have returned from China in the state, 133 were found healthy. He said that three were admitted in hospitals, while samples of two have been found negative for Coronavirus. In a press release, Vij said, "Out of 136 people who have returned from China in the state, three people have been admitted to hospitals in different districts, however, the presence of Coronavirus infection in two cases is negative, while the report of one is pending." The Health Minister said, "Out of these remaining three people, one person is admitted to the isolation ward of a hospital in Gurugram, the second person is admitted to a hospital Karnal, and the third person is admitted to a hospital in Hisar." Also Read: India settles on standard treatment protocol as third case of coronavirus confirmed "The Government has issued helpline numbers of all the districts, on which any person can give information in this regard," he added. The virus originated in Wuhan in December and has since then spread to various parts around the world. China has imposed quarantine and travel restrictions, affecting the movement of 56 million people in more than a dozen cities, amid fears that the transmission rate will accelerate.

133 out of 136 people who returned from China found healthy, says Haryana Health Minister

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Wednesday arrested as many as 19 people including the National General Secretary of Ulema Council, for allegedly pelting stones at cops during an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/caa-and-nrc-protests-addressing-concerns-of-protesters-a-must-for-government-268749">anti-Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA) protest at Bilariyaganj here.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-caa-protests-a-ticking-ignorance-bomb-and-a-sheer-vandalism-with-truth-269453">Police have arrested</a> the main conspirator Maulana Tahir Madani, National General Secretary of Ulema Council and 18 other miscreants, while three main absconders include Ulema council leaders Nurul Hoda, Mirza Shane Alam and Osama.

Police have also announced a reward of Rs 25,000 each on the three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/akhilesh-yadav-files-nomination-from-azamgarh-211489">absconders</a>. "Section 144 is in force in the district. Some women and children had gathered to protest on Tuesday. When police tried to disperse them, some rowdies pelted stones at police," said Triveni Singh, Superintendent of Police (SP).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dr-br-ambedkars-statue-vandalised-in-azamgarh-35301">Ambedkar's statue vandalised in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh</a>

"A few women were misled and gathered in the park yesterday without taking any prior permission. Children were also present there. We had to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. Women were safely dispersed from there," he added.

At the same time, police have also started monitoring social sites through the cyber cell. Search for 16 other people, who have been named in the FIR along with 100 unknown people involved in the incident, is underway.

Hundreds of women reached the Maulana Jauhar Park in Bilariaganj on Tuesday to protest against the CAA, proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) and National Population Register (NPR) along with children.

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Wednesday arrested as many as 19 people including the National General Secretary of Ulema Council, for allegedly pelting stones at cops during an anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protest at Bilariyaganj here.

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Wednesday arrested as many as 19 people including the National General Secretary of Ulema Council, for allegedly pelting stones at cops during an anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protest at Bilariyaganj here. Police have arrested the main conspirator Maulana Tahir Madani, National General Secretary of Ulema Council and 18 other miscreants, while three main absconders include Ulema council leaders Nurul Hoda, Mirza Shane Alam and Osama. Police have also announced a reward of Rs 25,000 each on the three absconders. "Section 144 is in force in the district. Some women and children had gathered to protest on Tuesday. When police tried to disperse them, some rowdies pelted stones at police," said Triveni Singh, Superintendent of Police (SP). Also Read: Ambedkar's statue vandalised in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh "A few women were misled and gathered in the park yesterday without taking any prior permission. Children were also present there. We had to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. Women were safely dispersed from there," he added. At the same time, police have also started monitoring social sites through the cyber cell. Search for 16 other people, who have been named in the FIR along with 100 unknown people involved in the incident, is underway. Hundreds of women reached the Maulana Jauhar Park in Bilariaganj on Tuesday to protest against the CAA, proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) and National Population Register (NPR) along with children.

19 in police custody for pelting stones at law enforcement in UP's Azamgarh

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-tour- due-to-injury-gill-and-agarwal-to-replace-278428">Indian team</a> has&nbsp;been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-vs-india-1st-odi-kiwis-outshine-men-in-blue-win-by-6-wickets-278863">New Zealand vs India, 1st ODI: Kiwis outshine Men in Blue, win by 6 wickets</a>

According to Article 2.22 of the ICC code of conduct for players and players personnel, a team is fined 20 per cent of match fee for every delayed over.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-new-zealand-tests-prithvi-shaw- navdeep-saini-in-rohit-sharma-out-278478">Virat</a> and Co. have been charged with four delayed&nbsp;overs in the recent ODI clash. In a released statement by the ICC: “Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing,".&nbsp;

Men in blue were charged by the on-field umpires Shaun Haig and Langton Rusere, third umpire Bruce Oxenford and fourth umpire Chris Brown.&nbsp;

This is the third successive time in the tour that they have&nbsp;been charged with these violations. Team India were charged 40 per cent and 20 per cent of the fee in the fourth and the fifth T20I match respectively against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Chris Broad imposed the sanction on Kohli's side.&nbsp;

New Zealand get their first win of the tour against India, they beat the visitors by 4 wickets. The Blackcaps chased India's mammoth score (347 runs) with 11 balls to spare.

Ross Taylor has been judged the 'Man of the Match' after his performance versus India today.&nbsp;

New Zealand lead three-ODI match series against India (1-0).&nbsp;

They next meet in Auckland on February 8.

The Indian team has been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton.

The Indian team has been fined 80 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first One Day International of the three-match serieson Wednesday in Hamilton. Also read- New Zealand vs India, 1st ODI: Kiwis outshine Men in Blue, win by 6 wickets According to Article 2.22 of the ICC code of conduct for players and players personnel, a team is fined 20 per cent of match fee for every delayed over. Virat and Co. have been charged with four delayed overs in the recent ODI clash. In a released statement by the ICC: “Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing,". Men in blue were charged by the on-field umpires Shaun Haig and Langton Rusere, third umpire Bruce Oxenford and fourth umpire Chris Brown. This is the third successive time in the tour that they have been charged with these violations. Team India were charged 40 per cent and 20 per cent of the fee in the fourth and the fifth T20I match respectively against New Zealand. Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Chris Broad imposed the sanction on Kohli's side. New Zealand get their first win of the tour against India, they beat the visitors by 4 wickets. The Blackcaps chased India's mammoth score (347 runs) with 11 balls to spare. Ross Taylor has been judged the 'Man of the Match' after his performance versus India today. New Zealand lead three-ODI match series against India (1-0). They next meet in Auckland on February 8.

India fined for slow over rate for third successive time

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020.

"By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said.

"The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024,"&nbsp;he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world.

But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing"&nbsp;economy, he said.

"If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said.

He said World Bank has also predicted a revival.

That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said.

Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state.

"We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them.

Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank.

"Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years,"&nbsp;the CM said.

Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030. Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020. "By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said. "The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024," he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world. But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing" economy, he said. "If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said. He said World Bank has also predicted a revival. That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said. Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state. "We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them. Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank. "Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years," the CM said. Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.

UP to play big role in India's goal to become $5 trillion economy: Rajnath Singh

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">China </a>have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said.

The delay in shipments could pressure local prices and force the state-run <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/indias-cotton-exports-could-hit-four-year-high-on-price-rally-weak-rupee-139689?amp">Cotton Corporation of India</a> (CCI) to increase purchases from farmers to ensure domestic prices stay above government-mandated levels.

"As the holiday is extended in China, shipments are getting delayed," said Chirag Patel, chief executive at Jaydeep Cotton Fibers Pvt Ltd, an exporter.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-january-manufacturing-activity-hits-nearly-8-year-high-278375">India's January manufacturing activity hits nearly 8-year high&nbsp;</a>

Most Chinese firms scale back operations or close for long periods around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Lunar New Year</a> holidays, which began on January&nbsp;24 this year.

But China's government has extended the holidays, announced widespread transport restrictions and told many businesses to stay closed longer to limit the spread of the virus. It is not clear when millions of migrant workers will be able to return to factories or when ports will resume normal operations.

The epidemic has killed nearly 500 people in China and infected more than 24,000 so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060: Study</a>

Indian sellers had contracted around 650,000 bales to China for prompt shipment.

Around 400,000 bales have already been shipped, but the remaining 250,000 bales have been delayed, three exporters and two dealers with global trading houses told Reuters.

"Exporters are a bit worried. So far buyers haven't cancelled contracts, but some might be if this virus outbreak remains there for few more weeks," said Vinay Kotak, a director at Kotak Commodities, a Mumbai-based brokerage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">China</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-china-to-account-for-nearly-35-of-global-gdp-in-2060-study-278393">Bangladesh</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-trump-visits-vietnam-melania-walks-alone-at-great-wall-543">Vietnam </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-indonesias-mt-sinabung-erupts-696">Indonesia </a>are among key buyers of India cotton.

Exporters have an option of diverting cotton meant for China to other destinations such as Bangladesh and Vietnam if shipments are delayed further, Kotak said.

India has shipped 2 million cotton bales since the 2019-20 marketing year started on October&nbsp;1 and another 1 million bales have been contracted for shipment in February and March, said Atul Ganatra, president of the Cotton Association of India.

"We are hopeful that very soon Chinese buying will return to normal," said Ganatra.

Local cotton prices are already under pressure due to surplus production, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm.

"Chinese buying was supporting local prices. In the absence of China, Cotton Corporation of India will have to raise purchases," the dealer said.

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to China have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said.

Shipments of around 250,000 bales of Indian cotton to China have been delayed by nearly two weeks as a virus outbreak and factory closures dampen demand from the world's biggest consumer of the fibre, industry officials told said. The delay in shipments could pressure local prices and force the state-run Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) to increase purchases from farmers to ensure domestic prices stay above government-mandated levels. "As the holiday is extended in China, shipments are getting delayed," said Chirag Patel, chief executive at Jaydeep Cotton Fibers Pvt Ltd, an exporter. Also read: India's January manufacturing activity hits nearly 8-year high Most Chinese firms scale back operations or close for long periods around the Lunar New Year holidays, which began on January 24 this year. But China's government has extended the holidays, announced widespread transport restrictions and told many businesses to stay closed longer to limit the spread of the virus. It is not clear when millions of migrant workers will be able to return to factories or when ports will resume normal operations. The epidemic has killed nearly 500 people in China and infected more than 24,000 so far. Also read: India, China to account for nearly 35% of global GDP in 2060: Study Indian sellers had contracted around 650,000 bales to China for prompt shipment. Around 400,000 bales have already been shipped, but the remaining 250,000 bales have been delayed, three exporters and two dealers with global trading houses told Reuters. "Exporters are a bit worried. So far buyers haven't cancelled contracts, but some might be if this virus outbreak remains there for few more weeks," said Vinay Kotak, a director at Kotak Commodities, a Mumbai-based brokerage. China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Indonesia are among key buyers of India cotton. Exporters have an option of diverting cotton meant for China to other destinations such as Bangladesh and Vietnam if shipments are delayed further, Kotak said. India has shipped 2 million cotton bales since the 2019-20 marketing year started on October 1 and another 1 million bales have been contracted for shipment in February and March, said Atul Ganatra, president of the Cotton Association of India. "We are hopeful that very soon Chinese buying will return to normal," said Ganatra. Local cotton prices are already under pressure due to surplus production, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trading firm. "Chinese buying was supporting local prices. In the absence of China, Cotton Corporation of India will have to raise purchases," the dealer said.

Virus outbreak delays India's cotton exports to China

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