It's a blockbuster Sunday at the ICC ODI World Cup as hosts India and five-time champions Australia begin their World Cup campaigns with a crunch clash against each other in Chennai. Both India and Australia start the showpiece event as title contenders, and both would look to begin their campaign on a winning note.

India begin World Cup campaign against Australia

<p>The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.7 million hours to hand-carve about two million cubic feet of stone, AP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Comprising four varieties of marble from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria, these precious materials embarked on an incredible journey, traveling first to India and then traversing over 8,000 miles across the world to reach their destination in New Jersey. Once in place, these meticulously carved pieces were assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle to create this monumental Hindu temple.</p>

<h2><strong>A symbol of spiritual dedication</strong></h2>

<p>The New Jersey Akshardham is a project by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global religious and civic organisation within the Swaminarayan sect.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walmart-relaxes-requirement-of-degree-for-some-of-its-jobs-643983">Walmart relaxes requirement of degree for some of its jobs</a></p>

<p>This temple marked the third "Akshardham" or "abode of the divine" built by BAPS, following in New Delhi and Gujarat, where BAPS is headquartered. The organisation, which is celebrating its 50th year in North America next year, oversees a vast network of more than 1,200 temples and 3,850 centres worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The journey to create the New Jersey Akshardham was not without its challenges. In 2021, a civil lawsuit alleged forced labour, meager wages, and grim working conditions during the temple's construction, sparking controversy and criticism. Despite these hurdles, the temple stands today as a symbol of resilience and faith, drawing devotees and admirers from across the nation.</p>

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<p>Families from all corners of the country have flocked to the temple campus, eager for a sneak peek. Devotees have been bowing in reverence to each other and to monks in saffron robes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-nationals-staying-abroad-worried-as-war-escalates-in-gaza-643995">Israel-Palestine conflict: Nationals staying abroad worried as war escalates in Gaza</a></strong></p>

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<p>Rituals and ceremonies have been performed in front of the awe-inspiring 49-foot-tall statue of Bhagwan Nilkanth Varni, later known as Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the sect that initiated a moral and spiritual renaissance in western India.</p>

<p>Other worshippers have been seen prostrating on the floor, pressing their foreheads to the ground in deep reverence. AP reported that others have been engaging in meditation and lighting incense before the deity, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Hindu temples in the United States.</p>

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The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.

The world's largest modern Hindu temple outside India, the New Jersey Akshardham, opened on Sunday (Oct 8). This extraordinary architectural marvel, sprawling across a 126-acre tract, has been brought to life through the tireless efforts of artisans and volunteers who dedicated approximately 4.7 million hours to hand-carve about two million cubic feet of stone, AP reported. Comprising four varieties of marble from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria, these precious materials embarked on an incredible journey, traveling first to India and then traversing over 8,000 miles across the world to reach their destination in New Jersey. Once in place, these meticulously carved pieces were assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle to create this monumental Hindu temple. A symbol of spiritual dedication The New Jersey Akshardham is a project by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global religious and civic organisation within the Swaminarayan sect. Also Read | Walmart relaxes requirement of degree for some of its jobs This temple marked the third "Akshardham" or "abode of the divine" built by BAPS, following in New Delhi and Gujarat, where BAPS is headquartered. The organisation, which is celebrating its 50th year in North America next year, oversees a vast network of more than 1,200 temples and 3,850 centres worldwide. Controversy The journey to create the New Jersey Akshardham was not without its challenges. In 2021, a civil lawsuit alleged forced labour, meager wages, and grim working conditions during the temple's construction, sparking controversy and criticism. Despite these hurdles, the temple stands today as a symbol of resilience and faith, drawing devotees and admirers from across the nation. Also Read | UK's opposition Labour on course for landslide election victory, poll predicts Families from all corners of the country have flocked to the temple campus, eager for a sneak peek. Devotees have been bowing in reverence to each other and to monks in saffron robes. Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict: Nationals staying abroad worried as war escalates in Gaza × Rituals and ceremonies have been performed in front of the awe-inspiring 49-foot-tall statue of Bhagwan Nilkanth Varni, later known as Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the sect that initiated a moral and spiritual renaissance in western India. Other worshippers have been seen prostrating on the floor, pressing their foreheads to the ground in deep reverence. AP reported that others have been engaging in meditation and lighting incense before the deity, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Hindu temples in the United States. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

World's largest modern Hindu temple outside India opens in New Jersey

In India's north-eastern state of Sikkim, hundreds of rescuers continue to dig through slushy debris and fast-flowing, icy water to search for the victims affected by flash floods. According to the latest information, the death toll has jumped to 55 – as 27 bodies have been recovered from Sikkim and the rest from the basin of the Teesta river in west Bengal.

India: Sikkim floods push water level in Teesta river

<p>India's central security agency has received an email threatening to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi stadium in Gujarat's Ahmedabad besides the sender demanding&nbsp;Rs 500 crore and the release of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, said reports quoting NIA officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dreaded Indian gangster Bishnoi is currently incarcerated in Ahmedabad on drug smuggling charges that are being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Bishnoi is also an accused in the murder case of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala.</p>

<p>Acting on the email, the NIA promptly informed the Mumbai police about the threat, said a report in the Indian Express. They reportedly also shared the email's contents with relevant agencies responsible for the Prime Minister's security as well as the Gujarat Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-flash-floods-53-killed-27-bodies-recovered-in-teesta-river-643539">Sikkim flash floods: 53 killed, 27 bodies recovered from Teesta river</a></p>

<h2><strong>Security beefed up&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Following the&nbsp;NIA alert, the Mumbai police have heightened security measures in light of the upcoming five World Cup cricket matches at the Wankhede stadium in the city. The sources also reportedly said that Mumbai Police is also actively working to trace the origin of the threatening email.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-lander-rover-sleep-forever-ex-isro-chief-says-no-hope-of-reviving-643520">Chandrayaan-3 lander, rover sleep forever? Ex-ISRO chief says 'no hope of reviving'</a></p>

<p>The email in Hindi reportedly read, “Tumhari sarkar se hume 500 crore aur Lawrence bishnoi chahiye nahi to kal hum Narendra Modi ke sath Narendra Modi stadium bhi uda denge. Hindustan me sabkuch bikta hai to humne bhi kuch kharid liya hai kitna bhi sequre karlo humse nahi bacha paoge agar baat karni hai to is mail par hi bat karna (We will blow up Narendra Modi and the Narendra Modi stadium if the government does not give us Rs 500 crore and Lawrence Bishnoi. Everything sells in Hindustan, so we too have bought something. No matter how much you try to beef up security, you won’t be able to remain safe from us. If you wish to talk, do so by responding on this email)," reported the local media outlet.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>It is worth noting that the inaugural match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The stadium, the largest cricket stadium globally, hosted the match between England and New Zealand.</p>

<p>Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi is suspected of running his gang from within prison. He had previously issued threats to Bollywood actor Salman Khan from prison over the case of blackbuck killing involving the actor, and said that the act had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Bishnoi community who consider animals sacred.<br />
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The security agencies are trying to verify the IP address of the email sender, and probe is on.<br />
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India's central security agency has received an email threatening to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi stadium in Gujarat's Ahmedabad besides the sender demanding Rs 500 crore and the release of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, said reports quoting NIA officials.

India's central security agency has received an email threatening to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and blow up the Narendra Modi stadium in Gujarat's Ahmedabad besides the sender demanding Rs 500 crore and the release of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, said reports quoting NIA officials. Dreaded Indian gangster Bishnoi is currently incarcerated in Ahmedabad on drug smuggling charges that are being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Bishnoi is also an accused in the murder case of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Acting on the email, the NIA promptly informed the Mumbai police about the threat, said a report in the Indian Express. They reportedly also shared the email's contents with relevant agencies responsible for the Prime Minister's security as well as the Gujarat Police. Also Read | Sikkim flash floods: 53 killed, 27 bodies recovered from Teesta river Security beefed up Following the NIA alert, the Mumbai police have heightened security measures in light of the upcoming five World Cup cricket matches at the Wankhede stadium in the city. The sources also reportedly said that Mumbai Police is also actively working to trace the origin of the threatening email. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 lander, rover sleep forever? Ex-ISRO chief says 'no hope of reviving' The email in Hindi reportedly read, “Tumhari sarkar se hume 500 crore aur Lawrence bishnoi chahiye nahi to kal hum Narendra Modi ke sath Narendra Modi stadium bhi uda denge. Hindustan me sabkuch bikta hai to humne bhi kuch kharid liya hai kitna bhi sequre karlo humse nahi bacha paoge agar baat karni hai to is mail par hi bat karna (We will blow up Narendra Modi and the Narendra Modi stadium if the government does not give us Rs 500 crore and Lawrence Bishnoi. Everything sells in Hindustan, so we too have bought something. No matter how much you try to beef up security, you won’t be able to remain safe from us. If you wish to talk, do so by responding on this email)," reported the local media outlet. Watch | Shukrayaan-1: India's Venus orbiter mission × It is worth noting that the inaugural match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The stadium, the largest cricket stadium globally, hosted the match between England and New Zealand. Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi is suspected of running his gang from within prison. He had previously issued threats to Bollywood actor Salman Khan from prison over the case of blackbuck killing involving the actor, and said that the act had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Bishnoi community who consider animals sacred. The security agencies are trying to verify the IP address of the email sender, and probe is on. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

PM Modi assassination threat, gangster Bishnoi’s release demand in email triggers security alarm: Report

India's impressive performance at the Hangzhou Asian Games highlights its growing prominence in sports. Across various disciplines like shooting, compound archery, and athletics, India has excelled and shattered previous records. Remarkably, India is on the verge of reaching 100 medals, a significant leap from their previous best of 70 medals in the history of the Asian Games. Shooting has been exceptional, with 22 medals, including 4 by the remarkable 18-year-old Esha Singh, who has become a national hero. Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with India’s ace shooter only on The India Story.

Esha's gold-silver feat at Hangzhou Asian Games | The India Story

<p>In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE. Their partnership, he emphasised, was not merely symbolic but deeply rooted in economic synergy. "India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership," Minister Al Sayegh stated, "with extensive collaborations across sectors like energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development."</p>

<p>The Minister went on to underline the remarkable growth in non-oil trade and investments between the two nations, illustrating the tangible benefits of their relationship. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal he pointed to "notable increases in non-oil trade" even as "investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries."</p>

<p>On India Middle East Europe connectivity project, the minister revealed that the UAE is actively participating in the project, an endeavour designed to export electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the Minister discussed the ambitious I2U2 project, which aims to strengthen economic cooperation across various sectors, emphasising, "These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity."<i> </i></p>

<p><strong>Full interview</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How would you characterise India-UAE relations?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:</strong> The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of India have long-established strong and robust strategic relations, rooted in cultural and economic ties that have developed over many years.&nbsp;The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the UAE in February 2022 signified a deepening economic relationship, with the CEPA aiming to boost trade and investment between the two nations by reducing trade barriers and fostering economic cooperation.&nbsp;India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership, with the UAE being one of India's significant trading partners in the Gulf region. The two countries have extensive economic collaborations in sectors such as energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development.&nbsp;Furthermore, both India and the UAE are actively engaged in international forums such as the G20 and BRICS.&nbsp;Their participation in these groups highlights their growing roles on the global stage and their commitment to addressing pressing global issues collectively. These forums provide platforms for dialogue and cooperation on various global challenges, including economic stability and development.</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;In terms of investment and trade relations, how has the relationship picked up, especially since the signing of the trade pact?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:</strong>&nbsp;The UAE and India have experienced significant growth in trade relations, with notable increases in non-oil trade. Moreover, their investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two<b> </b>countries.&nbsp;More than one year on from its implementation, CEPA is increasingly emerging as the model for an effective and mutually beneficial economic partnership. By removing or reducing tariffs on 80 per cent of goods and eliminating unnecessary barriers to trade the UAE and India are benefitting from mutual strengths and ushering in a new era of dynamic, sustainable growth.&nbsp;The total non-oil trade between both countries experienced a notable 9.9 percent increase, rising from USD 44.8 billion in 2021 to USD 49.2 billion in 2022. This growth is primarily attributed to substantial increases in UAE imports, which surged by an impressive 26.4 percent, going from USD 20.8 billion in 2021 to USD 26.3 billion in 2022. Additionally, UAE re-exports demonstrated healthy growth, rising by 10.3 percent from USD 11.48 billion to USD 12.6 billion during the same period.&nbsp; &nbsp;In terms of investment relations, UAE investment flows into India have been substantial, amounting to approximately USD 36.6 billion between 2003 and 2022. Simultaneously, Indian investments in the UAE also reached a substantial figure of around USD 30.5 billion during the same period. These investments have been diverse, spanning various sectors such as communications, software, and IT services, real estate, consumer products, automotive industry, renewable energy, metals, hotels, and tourism. These figures underscore the mutual economic interests and commitments of both nations, contributing to the strengthening of economic ties.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> India invited UAE to participate at the G20 summit, how do you see that as?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;</strong>The UAE’s participation in the G20 reflects the country’s steadfast commitment to multilateral cooperation and international priorities across all sectors. In this regard, the UAE is dedicated to supporting the global agenda while forging partnerships that will benefit the international community and future generations.&nbsp;The UAE commended the endeavors by the Indian Presidency describing it as the most ambitious in the history of the G20. Moreover, the country welcomed the efforts of the participating countries within the G20 meetings, their cooperation, and their commitment to working together to shape a brighter future through constructive international collaboration in the face of pressing challenges.&nbsp;Throughout the UAE's engagements with the G20, including its participation as a guest country in France in 2011, Saudi Arabia in 2020, Indonesia in 2022, and now with India in 2023, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aligning with the priorities of the G20.<b>&nbsp;</b>These commitments have encompassed a broad spectrum of crucial topics, including post-COVID-19 recovery, climate change mitigation, energy transition, disaster risk reduction, debt risk management, and the attainment of sustainable development goals.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How does UAE see the India Middle East Europe connectivity project since it is part of it? any details as to how it will work, planned route?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:</strong>&nbsp;One of the G20 initiatives, the UAE's participation in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project underscores its commitment to enhancing international partnerships and contributing to a sustainable future. As the host of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in November, the UAE recognizes the importance of initiatives such as IMEC.<b>&nbsp;</b>IMEC seeks to stimulate economic development by promoting economic connectivity and integration between regions, aligning perfectly with the UAE's foreign policy objectives of supporting economic prosperity and fostering strong international partnerships through trade, industry, and investment. As part of this project, participants, including the UAE, will explore the possibility of exporting electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating environmental conservation considerations.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How has the I2U2 group been doing, what next for the grouping?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:</strong>&nbsp;The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to working closely and constructively with its partners in the I2U2 Initiative, which includes Israel, India, and the United States. The launch of the I2U2 website, which was recently announced on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, stands as a testament to this commitment and marks an exciting step forward in the journey of economic cooperation among these nations. The platform will serve as a hub for attracting new investment projects under the group’s umbrella, empowering businesses and investors to propose innovative projects, fostering collaboration and economic growth.</p>

<p>The overarching goal of the I2U2 Group is to strengthen economic cooperation among its member states across a wide spectrum of sectors, including food security, water, energy, space, transportation, health, and technology. Joint projects are set to be implemented through partnerships forged within the business sectors of the member countries. These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity.</p>

<p>The UAE is fully committed to its membership in the group and its initiatives, underscoring the vision of the UAE's wise leadership, which places a strong emphasis on building bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster peace and security for all. The efforts of the I2U2 Group align with the shared objective of enhancing stability and prosperity for the peoples of the region and beyond.</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>Role played by the Indian diaspora in connecting the 2 countries. UAE hosts the largest number of Indians outside of India.</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;</strong>There is a substantial Indian expatriate community in the UAE, contributing significantly to the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the country. The people-to-people ties are strong and play a vital role in fostering goodwill and understanding between the nations, a further indication of the close ties across a multitude of areas. In addition,&nbsp;the Indian diaspora plays a significant role in the country's economic development. Many Indians are employed in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance, contributing to the UAE's economic growth through their expertise, labour, and investments.&nbsp;The UAE acknowledges and values the diverse contributions of the Indian diaspora to its society and economy, recognising them as an integral part of the country's growth and development.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> UAE will host the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), your expectations from India and do you see attendance of PM Modi?</p>

<p><strong>Ahmed Al Sayegh:</strong>&nbsp;COP28 UAE carries significant expectations and ambitions to address the urgent global challenge of climate change. The UAE envisions this event as a pivotal moment in the world's efforts to combat climate change and is dedicated to catalyzing transformative and accelerated climate action. COP28’s Presidency is hoping that all participants will actively engage with the conference, and are confident of seeing high-level representation from all invited countries. COP28 UAE is expected to be a groundbreaking conference that not only underscores the urgency of climate action but also emphasizes the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and innovative solutions.&nbsp;The Presidency is fully committed to working with the global community to deliver unprecedented and impactful results, making COP28 a conference of action and a turning point in the fight against climate change.</p>

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In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE.

In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE. Their partnership, he emphasised, was not merely symbolic but deeply rooted in economic synergy. "India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership," Minister Al Sayegh stated, "with extensive collaborations across sectors like energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development." The Minister went on to underline the remarkable growth in non-oil trade and investments between the two nations, illustrating the tangible benefits of their relationship. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal he pointed to "notable increases in non-oil trade" even as "investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries." On India Middle East Europe connectivity project, the minister revealed that the UAE is actively participating in the project, an endeavour designed to export electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the Minister discussed the ambitious I2U2 project, which aims to strengthen economic cooperation across various sectors, emphasising, "These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity." Full interview WION: How would you characterise India-UAE relations? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of India have long-established strong and robust strategic relations, rooted in cultural and economic ties that have developed over many years. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the UAE in February 2022 signified a deepening economic relationship, with the CEPA aiming to boost trade and investment between the two nations by reducing trade barriers and fostering economic cooperation. India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership, with the UAE being one of India's significant trading partners in the Gulf region. The two countries have extensive economic collaborations in sectors such as energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, both India and the UAE are actively engaged in international forums such as the G20 and BRICS. Their participation in these groups highlights their growing roles on the global stage and their commitment to addressing pressing global issues collectively. These forums provide platforms for dialogue and cooperation on various global challenges, including economic stability and development. WION: In terms of investment and trade relations, how has the relationship picked up, especially since the signing of the trade pact? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE and India have experienced significant growth in trade relations, with notable increases in non-oil trade. Moreover, their investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries. More than one year on from its implementation, CEPA is increasingly emerging as the model for an effective and mutually beneficial economic partnership. By removing or reducing tariffs on 80 per cent of goods and eliminating unnecessary barriers to trade the UAE and India are benefitting from mutual strengths and ushering in a new era of dynamic, sustainable growth. The total non-oil trade between both countries experienced a notable 9.9 percent increase, rising from USD 44.8 billion in 2021 to USD 49.2 billion in 2022. This growth is primarily attributed to substantial increases in UAE imports, which surged by an impressive 26.4 percent, going from USD 20.8 billion in 2021 to USD 26.3 billion in 2022. Additionally, UAE re-exports demonstrated healthy growth, rising by 10.3 percent from USD 11.48 billion to USD 12.6 billion during the same period. In terms of investment relations, UAE investment flows into India have been substantial, amounting to approximately USD 36.6 billion between 2003 and 2022. Simultaneously, Indian investments in the UAE also reached a substantial figure of around USD 30.5 billion during the same period. These investments have been diverse, spanning various sectors such as communications, software, and IT services, real estate, consumer products, automotive industry, renewable energy, metals, hotels, and tourism. These figures underscore the mutual economic interests and commitments of both nations, contributing to the strengthening of economic ties. WION: India invited UAE to participate at the G20 summit, how do you see that as? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE’s participation in the G20 reflects the country’s steadfast commitment to multilateral cooperation and international priorities across all sectors. In this regard, the UAE is dedicated to supporting the global agenda while forging partnerships that will benefit the international community and future generations. The UAE commended the endeavors by the Indian Presidency describing it as the most ambitious in the history of the G20. Moreover, the country welcomed the efforts of the participating countries within the G20 meetings, their cooperation, and their commitment to working together to shape a brighter future through constructive international collaboration in the face of pressing challenges. Throughout the UAE's engagements with the G20, including its participation as a guest country in France in 2011, Saudi Arabia in 2020, Indonesia in 2022, and now with India in 2023, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aligning with the priorities of the G20. These commitments have encompassed a broad spectrum of crucial topics, including post-COVID-19 recovery, climate change mitigation, energy transition, disaster risk reduction, debt risk management, and the attainment of sustainable development goals. WION: How does UAE see the India Middle East Europe connectivity project since it is part of it? any details as to how it will work, planned route? Ahmed Al Sayegh: One of the G20 initiatives, the UAE's participation in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project underscores its commitment to enhancing international partnerships and contributing to a sustainable future. As the host of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in November, the UAE recognizes the importance of initiatives such as IMEC. IMEC seeks to stimulate economic development by promoting economic connectivity and integration between regions, aligning perfectly with the UAE's foreign policy objectives of supporting economic prosperity and fostering strong international partnerships through trade, industry, and investment. As part of this project, participants, including the UAE, will explore the possibility of exporting electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating environmental conservation considerations. WION: How has the I2U2 group been doing, what next for the grouping? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to working closely and constructively with its partners in the I2U2 Initiative, which includes Israel, India, and the United States. The launch of the I2U2 website, which was recently announced on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, stands as a testament to this commitment and marks an exciting step forward in the journey of economic cooperation among these nations. The platform will serve as a hub for attracting new investment projects under the group’s umbrella, empowering businesses and investors to propose innovative projects, fostering collaboration and economic growth. The overarching goal of the I2U2 Group is to strengthen economic cooperation among its member states across a wide spectrum of sectors, including food security, water, energy, space, transportation, health, and technology. Joint projects are set to be implemented through partnerships forged within the business sectors of the member countries. These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity. The UAE is fully committed to its membership in the group and its initiatives, underscoring the vision of the UAE's wise leadership, which places a strong emphasis on building bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster peace and security for all. The efforts of the I2U2 Group align with the shared objective of enhancing stability and prosperity for the peoples of the region and beyond. WION: Role played by the Indian diaspora in connecting the 2 countries. UAE hosts the largest number of Indians outside of India. Ahmed Al Sayegh: There is a substantial Indian expatriate community in the UAE, contributing significantly to the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the country. The people-to-people ties are strong and play a vital role in fostering goodwill and understanding between the nations, a further indication of the close ties across a multitude of areas. In addition, the Indian diaspora plays a significant role in the country's economic development. Many Indians are employed in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance, contributing to the UAE's economic growth through their expertise, labour, and investments. The UAE acknowledges and values the diverse contributions of the Indian diaspora to its society and economy, recognising them as an integral part of the country's growth and development. WION: UAE will host the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), your expectations from India and do you see attendance of PM Modi? Ahmed Al Sayegh: COP28 UAE carries significant expectations and ambitions to address the urgent global challenge of climate change. The UAE envisions this event as a pivotal moment in the world's efforts to combat climate change and is dedicated to catalyzing transformative and accelerated climate action. COP28’s Presidency is hoping that all participants will actively engage with the conference, and are confident of seeing high-level representation from all invited countries. COP28 UAE is expected to be a groundbreaking conference that not only underscores the urgency of climate action but also emphasizes the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and innovative solutions. The Presidency is fully committed to working with the global community to deliver unprecedented and impactful results, making COP28 a conference of action and a turning point in the fight against climate change. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Exclusive: India and UAE have strong economic partnership, says UAE Minister Al Sayegh

On Friday, the Ministry of Electronics and IT warned several social media platforms to remove Child Sexual Abuse Material (CAM) on the Indian internet.

Remove child sex abuse from the internet: India warns 3 social media companies

The middle class is the fastest-growing major segment of the Indian population in both percentage and absolute terms, rising at 6.3 percent per year between 1995 and 2021. It now represents 31 percent of the population and is expected to be 38 percent by 2031 and 60 percent in 2047.

Indian middle class grows 5-fold in 9 years

A compelling new documentary titled 'Borrowed Dreams: The Canadian Experience' throws spotlight on the challenges faced by Indian students living in Canada. These difficulties include a housing crisis, infrastructural inadequacies, and a pressing health crisis. Given the students' hesitancy to voice their concerns, WION connected with Yashvarya Mehta, the CEO of Insight, the company behind producing this eye-opening documentary.

Truth Behind 'Canadian Dream' of Indian Students

Schneider electric India recently launched an electric innovation yatra to mark 60 years of its presence in the country. This carbon neutral "Innovation hub on wheels" was launched with a mission of making India more sustainable, digital, and energy positive.

Schneider electric's sustainability push

<p>While developing a fighter plane, it is crucial to prove the mechanism to eject the pilot(s) safely, mid-flight. Likewise, while working towards an astronaut mission, it is of utmost importance to prove the mechanism to eject the crew module (astronaut-carrying shell) to safety, when the rocket is mid-flight. The Indian Space agency ISRO is now gearing up for the maiden mid-flight eject test, in preparation for its human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. By the end of this month, ISRO is expected to perform the mission known as TV-D1 or Test Vehicle Development Flight 1. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-seeks-designs-for-lunar-freezer-to-safeguard-moon-mission-samples-643591">NASA seeks designs for 'lunar freezer' to safeguard moon mission samples</a></p>

<p>The Crew Module (CM) is where the astronauts are nestled in. It is maintained in a pressurized earth-like atmospheric condition during the Gaganyaan mission, for the safe sustenance of the astronauts. The CM for the Gaganyaan mission is in different stages of development. For the Test Vehicle Abort mission-1 (TV-D1), the CM is an unpressurised version that has completed its integration and testing and is ready to be shipped to the launch complex. This unpressurised CM has the overall size and mass of the actual Gaganyaan CM. It houses all the systems for the deceleration and recovery, which includes multiple parachutes and associated systems.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mission Gaganyaan:<br />
ISRO to commence unmanned flight tests for the Gaganyaan mission.<br />
<br />
Preparations for the Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1), which demonstrates the performance of the Crew Escape System, are underway.<a href="https://t.co/HSY0qfVDEH">https://t.co/HSY0qfVDEH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaganyaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaganyaan</a> <a href="https://t.co/XszSDEqs7w">pic.twitter.com/XszSDEqs7w</a></p>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1710506719124570606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The avionics systems in CM are in a dual redundant mode (even if one fails, the backup systems takeover) configuration for navigation, sequencing, telemetry, instrumentation and power. The CM in this mission is designed to capture the flight data for evaluation of the performance of various systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the TV-D1 mission, the crew module and associated systems will be mounted atop a mini-rocket known as Test vehicle. This is a liquid-fuelled mini rocket based on the L40 stage booster of the GSLV (erstwhile GSLV Mk2) rocket. Mid-flight, as the required conditions(Mach 1.2 or 1.2 times the speed of sound) are achieved, the Crew escape system and crew module would eject from the rocket, when the vehicle is at an altitude of 17km. thereafter, the crew module will be carried to a higher altitude(away from the rocket) and then it would use onboard parachutes to decelerate and gradually splash down in the sea, about 10kms from the coast of the spaceport in Sriharikota. After splashdown, the Crew Module will be recovered, using a dedicated vessel and diving team from the Indian Navy.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-launches-barrage-of-rockets-at-israel-terrorists-infiltrate-border-towns-643577">Gaza launches barrage of rockets at Israel; 'terrorists' infiltrate border towns</a></p>

<p>ISRO said that the Crew Module underwent electrical testing, at ISRO’s facility in Bengaluru, including an acoustic test and was dispatched to the spaceport on 13th August. At the spaceport, it will undergo vibration tests and pre-integration with the Crew Escape System, before final integration to the Test Vehicle at the Launch Pad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moodys-downgrades-egypt-643589">Moody's downgrades Egypt</a></strong></p>

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<p>This Test Vehicle mission with this CM is a significant milestone for the overall Gaganyaan program as a near-complete system is getting ready for a flight test. The success of this test flight will set the stage for the remaining qualification tests and multiple unmanned missions, leading to the first Gaganyaan mission with Indian Astronauts, ISRO said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, ISRO has also taken possession of a crew module shell. This shell is meant to be used for air-drop tests of the same. Air drop tests are another means of testing the parachute systems of the crew module, by dropping it from a flying helicopter. WION had reported on the delivery of the new crew module shell.</p>

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While developing a fighter plane, it is crucial to prove the mechanism to eject the pilot(s) safely, mid-flight. Likewise, while working towards an astronaut mission, it is of utmost importance to prove the mechanism to eject the crew module (astronaut-carrying shell) to safety, when the rocket is mid-flight.

While developing a fighter plane, it is crucial to prove the mechanism to eject the pilot(s) safely, mid-flight. Likewise, while working towards an astronaut mission, it is of utmost importance to prove the mechanism to eject the crew module (astronaut-carrying shell) to safety, when the rocket is mid-flight. The Indian Space agency ISRO is now gearing up for the maiden mid-flight eject test, in preparation for its human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. By the end of this month, ISRO is expected to perform the mission known as TV-D1 or Test Vehicle Development Flight 1. Also Read | NASA seeks designs for 'lunar freezer' to safeguard moon mission samples The Crew Module (CM) is where the astronauts are nestled in. It is maintained in a pressurized earth-like atmospheric condition during the Gaganyaan mission, for the safe sustenance of the astronauts. The CM for the Gaganyaan mission is in different stages of development. For the Test Vehicle Abort mission-1 (TV-D1), the CM is an unpressurised version that has completed its integration and testing and is ready to be shipped to the launch complex. This unpressurised CM has the overall size and mass of the actual Gaganyaan CM. It houses all the systems for the deceleration and recovery, which includes multiple parachutes and associated systems. Mission Gaganyaan: ISRO to commence unmanned flight tests for the Gaganyaan mission. Preparations for the Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1), which demonstrates the performance of the Crew Escape System, are underway.https://t.co/HSY0qfVDEH @indiannavy #Gaganyaan pic.twitter.com/XszSDEqs7w — ISRO (@isro) October 7, 2023 × The avionics systems in CM are in a dual redundant mode (even if one fails, the backup systems takeover) configuration for navigation, sequencing, telemetry, instrumentation and power. The CM in this mission is designed to capture the flight data for evaluation of the performance of various systems. During the TV-D1 mission, the crew module and associated systems will be mounted atop a mini-rocket known as Test vehicle. This is a liquid-fuelled mini rocket based on the L40 stage booster of the GSLV (erstwhile GSLV Mk2) rocket. Mid-flight, as the required conditions(Mach 1.2 or 1.2 times the speed of sound) are achieved, the Crew escape system and crew module would eject from the rocket, when the vehicle is at an altitude of 17km. thereafter, the crew module will be carried to a higher altitude(away from the rocket) and then it would use onboard parachutes to decelerate and gradually splash down in the sea, about 10kms from the coast of the spaceport in Sriharikota. After splashdown, the Crew Module will be recovered, using a dedicated vessel and diving team from the Indian Navy. Also Read | Gaza launches barrage of rockets at Israel; 'terrorists' infiltrate border towns ISRO said that the Crew Module underwent electrical testing, at ISRO’s facility in Bengaluru, including an acoustic test and was dispatched to the spaceport on 13th August. At the spaceport, it will undergo vibration tests and pre-integration with the Crew Escape System, before final integration to the Test Vehicle at the Launch Pad. Watch | Moody's downgrades Egypt × This Test Vehicle mission with this CM is a significant milestone for the overall Gaganyaan program as a near-complete system is getting ready for a flight test. The success of this test flight will set the stage for the remaining qualification tests and multiple unmanned missions, leading to the first Gaganyaan mission with Indian Astronauts, ISRO said. Meanwhile, ISRO has also taken possession of a crew module shell. This shell is meant to be used for air-drop tests of the same. Air drop tests are another means of testing the parachute systems of the crew module, by dropping it from a flying helicopter. WION had reported on the delivery of the new crew module shell. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

ISRO gearing up for mid-flight ejection test, in prep for Gaganyaan

<p>Tragedy has struck the northeastern state of Sikkim as flash floods and cloudbursts have wreaked havoc, resulting in the loss&nbsp;of at least 53 lives, including seven soldiers.</p>

<p>Additionally, 27 more bodies were discovered in the Teesta riverbed in neighbouring West Bengal over the past three days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over 140 people&nbsp;are still missing, while thousands have been displaced by the calamity.</p>

<p>The Sikkim government reports extensive damage to 1,173 houses and the successful rescue of 2,413 people.</p>

<p>The floodwaters have submerged or washed out all bridges downstream to the Teesta-V hydropower station, severely disrupting communication to North Sikkim, as reported by ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-flash-floods-central-water-commissions-study-alerted-authorities-about-lake-outburst-in-2015-643502">Sikkim flash floods: Central Water Commission’s study alerted authorities about lake outburst in 2015</a></p>

<h2><strong>Government initiatives and relief efforts</strong></h2>

<p>Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has taken charge of the crisis, leading high-level discussions to formulate rescue, relief, and restoration strategies.</p>

<p>Immediate attention has been given to reestablishing road connectivity to Chungthang, with plans to construct the road from Naga to Toong as soon as suitable land becomes available.</p>

<p>Families of the deceased will receive compensation of ₹4 lakh each ($4,812 each).</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts light to moderate rainfall in most areas of Mangan district over the next five days, posing challenges to the evacuation of over 3,000 stranded tourists.</p>

<p>The Indian Air Force (IAF) has faced difficulties in conducting rescue operations due to adverse weather conditions, including low cloud cover and visibility in the Lachen and Lachung valleys. Aerial rescue operations are expected to resume once the weather clears.</p>

<p>Flash floods and cloudbursts have caused widespread destruction in Sikkim, affecting more than 25,000 people, damaging nearly 1,200 homes, and destroying 13 bridges.</p>

<p>While rescue efforts have saved 2,413 individuals, 6,875 people remain displaced and are taking shelter in 22 relief camps across the state, which is now largely isolated from the rest of the country.</p>

<p>The flash floods were triggered by a glacial lake burst, leading to the release of water from the Chungthang Dam, resulting in a sudden rise in the Teesta River's water level.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Tamang attributed the catastrophe to "inferior construction" by previous state governments, emphasising the need for improved infrastructure.</p>

<p>Recent reports indicate that a Parliamentary Committee had previously highlighted a severe shortage of meteorological and monitoring stations in Himalayan regions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Esha's gold-silver feat at Hangzhou Asian Games | The India Story</strong></p>

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<p>Sikkim has been informed that it possesses 694 glacial lakes and eight flood forecasting stations, raising questions about the adequacy of monitoring and early warning systems.</p>

<p>An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) has been formed by the Home Ministry to visit the affected areas and assess the extent of damage, signalling the government's commitment to addressing this calamity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tragedy has struck the northeastern state of Sikkim as flash floods and cloudbursts have wreaked havoc, resulting in the loss of at least 53 lives, including seven soldiers.

Tragedy has struck the northeastern state of Sikkim as flash floods and cloudbursts have wreaked havoc, resulting in the loss of at least 53 lives, including seven soldiers. Additionally, 27 more bodies were discovered in the Teesta riverbed in neighbouring West Bengal over the past three days. Over 140 people are still missing, while thousands have been displaced by the calamity. The Sikkim government reports extensive damage to 1,173 houses and the successful rescue of 2,413 people. The floodwaters have submerged or washed out all bridges downstream to the Teesta-V hydropower station, severely disrupting communication to North Sikkim, as reported by ANI. Also read | Sikkim flash floods: Central Water Commission’s study alerted authorities about lake outburst in 2015 Government initiatives and relief efforts Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has taken charge of the crisis, leading high-level discussions to formulate rescue, relief, and restoration strategies. Immediate attention has been given to reestablishing road connectivity to Chungthang, with plans to construct the road from Naga to Toong as soon as suitable land becomes available. Families of the deceased will receive compensation of ₹4 lakh each ($4,812 each). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts light to moderate rainfall in most areas of Mangan district over the next five days, posing challenges to the evacuation of over 3,000 stranded tourists. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has faced difficulties in conducting rescue operations due to adverse weather conditions, including low cloud cover and visibility in the Lachen and Lachung valleys. Aerial rescue operations are expected to resume once the weather clears. Flash floods and cloudbursts have caused widespread destruction in Sikkim, affecting more than 25,000 people, damaging nearly 1,200 homes, and destroying 13 bridges. While rescue efforts have saved 2,413 individuals, 6,875 people remain displaced and are taking shelter in 22 relief camps across the state, which is now largely isolated from the rest of the country. The flash floods were triggered by a glacial lake burst, leading to the release of water from the Chungthang Dam, resulting in a sudden rise in the Teesta River's water level. Chief Minister Tamang attributed the catastrophe to "inferior construction" by previous state governments, emphasising the need for improved infrastructure. Recent reports indicate that a Parliamentary Committee had previously highlighted a severe shortage of meteorological and monitoring stations in Himalayan regions. Also watch | Esha's gold-silver feat at Hangzhou Asian Games | The India Story Sikkim has been informed that it possesses 694 glacial lakes and eight flood forecasting stations, raising questions about the adequacy of monitoring and early warning systems. An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) has been formed by the Home Ministry to visit the affected areas and assess the extent of damage, signalling the government's commitment to addressing this calamity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sikkim flash floods: 53 killed, 27 bodies recovered from Teesta river

<p>Former ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar, who played a significant role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission, said that there are zero prospects for the revival of the moon lander and rover, reported PTI news agency. This suggests that India's third lunar mission has successfully concluded.&nbsp;"No, no, there won't be any more hope of reviving. Now, if it should have happened, it should have happened by now. There is (now) no chance at all," Kumar told the agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite efforts by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) to re-establish contact with the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover following the start of a new lunar day on September 22, no signals have been received from the spacecraft. ISRO had said at the time that it would continue communication efforts.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-flash-floods-central-water-commissions-study-alerted-authorities-about-lake-outburst-in-2015-643502">Sikkim flash floods: Central Water Commission’s study alerted authorities about lake outburst in 2015</a></p>

<p>ISRO had planned for the lander and rover to operate for one lunar daylight period, which lasts approximately 14 Earth days. The Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully achieved its three primary objectives - demonstrating a safe and soft lunar landing, showcasing rover mobility on the moon, and conducting in-situ scientific experiments.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Prospects of future lunar missions</strong></h2>

<p>With the possibility of reestablishing communication with the lander and rover seen as a potential "bonus",&nbsp;an official of the space agency reportedly said,&nbsp;"If our luck is good, we will have the revival of both the lander and rover and we will get some more experimental data, which will be useful for us to further do an investigation of the moon surface".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-delayed-launch-of-chandrayaan-3-by-few-seconds-for-this-reason-643441">ISRO delayed launch of Chandrayaan-3 by few seconds for this reason</a></p>

<p>Kiran Kumar while expressing confidence in future sample return lunar missions said, "In the larger sense, what you have achieved definitely is you have reached an area (south pole) where nobody else has gone and got in-situ data of that region. And that is actually very useful information. It will benefit subsequent (missions) both in terms of knowledge and in terms of planning the activities that you want to do in that region."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-made-in-india-vaccine-will-combat-malaria-the-india-story-643478">How ‘made in India’ vaccine will combat malaria | The India Story</a></strong></p>

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<p>However, he also noted that it is difficult to predict specific timeframes for these endeavours. "Yes, definitely in future it will all be there because these are all technological capabilities you keep developing, now this (Chandrayaan-3) has shown soft-landing and subsequent ones will pick up material from there and come back, all those missions will definitely be there," Kumar said.</p>

<p>"It purely depends on how the overall planning happens, and how much resources are made available, so it's very difficult to tell (the time-frame for the sample-return mission)," the scientist added.&nbsp;</p>

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Former ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar, who played a significant role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission, said that there are zero prospects for the revival of the moon lander and rover, reported PTI news agency.

Former ISRO Chairman A S Kiran Kumar, who played a significant role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission, said that there are zero prospects for the revival of the moon lander and rover, reported PTI news agency. This suggests that India's third lunar mission has successfully concluded. "No, no, there won't be any more hope of reviving. Now, if it should have happened, it should have happened by now. There is (now) no chance at all," Kumar told the agency. Despite efforts by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) to re-establish contact with the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover following the start of a new lunar day on September 22, no signals have been received from the spacecraft. ISRO had said at the time that it would continue communication efforts. Also Read | Sikkim flash floods: Central Water Commission’s study alerted authorities about lake outburst in 2015 ISRO had planned for the lander and rover to operate for one lunar daylight period, which lasts approximately 14 Earth days. The Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully achieved its three primary objectives - demonstrating a safe and soft lunar landing, showcasing rover mobility on the moon, and conducting in-situ scientific experiments. Prospects of future lunar missions With the possibility of reestablishing communication with the lander and rover seen as a potential "bonus", an official of the space agency reportedly said, "If our luck is good, we will have the revival of both the lander and rover and we will get some more experimental data, which will be useful for us to further do an investigation of the moon surface". Also Read | ISRO delayed launch of Chandrayaan-3 by few seconds for this reason Kiran Kumar while expressing confidence in future sample return lunar missions said, "In the larger sense, what you have achieved definitely is you have reached an area (south pole) where nobody else has gone and got in-situ data of that region. And that is actually very useful information. It will benefit subsequent (missions) both in terms of knowledge and in terms of planning the activities that you want to do in that region." Watch | How ‘made in India’ vaccine will combat malaria | The India Story × However, he also noted that it is difficult to predict specific timeframes for these endeavours. "Yes, definitely in future it will all be there because these are all technological capabilities you keep developing, now this (Chandrayaan-3) has shown soft-landing and subsequent ones will pick up material from there and come back, all those missions will definitely be there," Kumar said. "It purely depends on how the overall planning happens, and how much resources are made available, so it's very difficult to tell (the time-frame for the sample-return mission)," the scientist added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Chandrayaan-3 lander, rover in sleep forever? Ex-ISRO chief says 'no hope of reviving'

India's oil minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, has expressed concerns over the supply-side management by OPEC+ in recent months, suggesting that it could lead to demand destruction. In an interview given to Argus Media, Puri emphasises the need for OPEC+ producers to consider the consequences of their decisions, as high oil prices strain fragile economies.

Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on oil prices

Following a thrilling opening to the 50-over competition at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad between reigning champions England and New Zealand, Pakistan will now prepare to play the Netherlands, a team that advanced through the World Cup qualifying process. This will be Pakistan's first official T20 World Cup encounter played in India since the 2016 tournament and their first in the format in more than ten years.

ICC World Cup 2023: First game for Pakistan in India since 2016, take on Netherlands

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs, on Thursday (Oct 5), addressed several issues including the security of Indian diplomats in the United Kingdom, the reduction in Canadian diplomats, and the shutdown of the Afghan embassy in India.</p>

<h2><strong>India demands parity in diplomatic presence with Canada</strong></h2>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs, on Thursday (Oct 5), demanded 'parity' in diplomatic presence with Canada citing their continued "interference" in India's "internal matters".</p>

<p>During a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "Given the much higher presence of diplomats or diplomatic presence here...and their continued interference in our internal matters, we have sought parity in our respective diplomatic presence. Discussions are ongoing on the modalities of achieving this".</p>

<p>"Given that Canadian diplomatic presence is higher, we would assume that there would be a reduction," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-justin-trudeaus-unprofessional-behaviour-in-parliament-draws-widespread-criticism-online-642993">Trudeau's 'unprofessional' behaviour in Parliament draws widespread criticism</a></p>

<p>"It's up to the Canadian side, who they choose to staff the High Commission with...our concerns are related to ensuring parity in diplomatic presence," Bagchi said on being asked if the reduction in the number of Canadian diplomats could see a decrease in the number of visas issued by the Canadian High Commission in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Security of Indian diplomats in UK</strong></h2>

<p>Bagchi said that India has been taking up concerns about the security of Indian diplomats and premises with the UK authorities.</p>

<p>"We have been taking up concerns about the security of our diplomats and our premises and other elements related to people there who are, wanted by our security or our judicial systems and we will continue to do that. And that's an ongoing conversation. I don't want to get into individual persons," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi says, "In the UK, there was a protest on 2nd October, and we certainly have taken up our concerns on the security of diplomats and premises there with the UK authorities. And this has been an ongoing thing. The issue is about security,… <a href="https://t.co/TwMKozqcPi">pic.twitter.com/TwMKozqcPi</a></p>
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<p>"In the UK, there was a protest on 2nd October, and we certainly have taken up our concerns on the security of diplomats and premises there with the UK authorities. And this has been an ongoing thing. The issue is about security, about ensuring that our diplomats are able to function normally and our premises are safe and that the community is not targeted," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Will continue assisting people of Afghanistan,'&nbsp;says MEA on Afghan embassy shutdown</strong></h2>

<p>MEA said that India will continue taking steps to "assist the people of Afghanistan."</p>

<p>"We are also aware that there has been a prolonged absence of the ambassador and that a large number of Afghan diplomats have left India in the recent past. We would hope that a substantial number of Afghan nationals in India, including students, are able to continue to receive necessary consular support. On our part, we will continue with our efforts to assist the people of Afghanistan," said Bagchi.</p>

<p>"However, we received communication last week purportedly from the embassy, indicating that it intends to suspend operations at the end of September. Of course, such a decision is an internal matter of a foreign mission. However, we have noted that the Afghan consulates general in Mumbai and in Hyderabad voiced their objection to that decision or to such a decision," the MEA spokesperson added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Ministry of External Affairs, on Thursday (Oct 5), addressed several issues including the security of Indian diplomats in the United Kingdom, the reduction in Canadian diplomats, and the shutdown of the Afghan embassy in India.

The Ministry of External Affairs, on Thursday (Oct 5), addressed several issues including the security of Indian diplomats in the United Kingdom, the reduction in Canadian diplomats, and the shutdown of the Afghan embassy in India. India demands parity in diplomatic presence with Canada The Ministry of External Affairs, on Thursday (Oct 5), demanded 'parity' in diplomatic presence with Canada citing their continued "interference" in India's "internal matters". During a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "Given the much higher presence of diplomats or diplomatic presence here...and their continued interference in our internal matters, we have sought parity in our respective diplomatic presence. Discussions are ongoing on the modalities of achieving this". "Given that Canadian diplomatic presence is higher, we would assume that there would be a reduction," he added. Also read: Trudeau's 'unprofessional' behaviour in Parliament draws widespread criticism "It's up to the Canadian side, who they choose to staff the High Commission with...our concerns are related to ensuring parity in diplomatic presence," Bagchi said on being asked if the reduction in the number of Canadian diplomats could see a decrease in the number of visas issued by the Canadian High Commission in India. Security of Indian diplomats in UK Bagchi said that India has been taking up concerns about the security of Indian diplomats and premises with the UK authorities. "We have been taking up concerns about the security of our diplomats and our premises and other elements related to people there who are, wanted by our security or our judicial systems and we will continue to do that. And that's an ongoing conversation. I don't want to get into individual persons," he said. #WATCH | MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi says, "In the UK, there was a protest on 2nd October, and we certainly have taken up our concerns on the security of diplomats and premises there with the UK authorities. And this has been an ongoing thing. The issue is about security,… pic.twitter.com/TwMKozqcPi — ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2023 × "In the UK, there was a protest on 2nd October, and we certainly have taken up our concerns on the security of diplomats and premises there with the UK authorities. And this has been an ongoing thing. The issue is about security, about ensuring that our diplomats are able to function normally and our premises are safe and that the community is not targeted," he added. 'Will continue assisting people of Afghanistan,' says MEA on Afghan embassy shutdown MEA said that India will continue taking steps to "assist the people of Afghanistan." "We are also aware that there has been a prolonged absence of the ambassador and that a large number of Afghan diplomats have left India in the recent past. We would hope that a substantial number of Afghan nationals in India, including students, are able to continue to receive necessary consular support. On our part, we will continue with our efforts to assist the people of Afghanistan," said Bagchi. "However, we received communication last week purportedly from the embassy, indicating that it intends to suspend operations at the end of September. Of course, such a decision is an internal matter of a foreign mission. However, we have noted that the Afghan consulates general in Mumbai and in Hyderabad voiced their objection to that decision or to such a decision," the MEA spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

MEA briefing: India reiterates demand for parity in diplomatic presence with Canada

<p>The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced on Friday that the monetary policy committee (MPC) has opted to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.50 per cent, marking the fourth consecutive time the rate remains unchanged.</p>

<p>In his policy statement, The Indian Express quoted Das as saying, "After a detailed assessment of the evolving macroeconomic and financial developments and the outlook, RBI's Monetary Policy Committee decided unanimously to keep the Policy Repo Rate unchanged at 6.5 per cent."</p>

<p>He emphasised the importance of both macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth, asserting that the combination of policies implemented in recent years, despite facing numerous and unprecedented challenges, had contributed to the achievement of stability in both macroeconomics and finance.</p>

<p>Das noted that India has transitioned from the twin balance sheet stress of a decade ago to a twin balance sheet advantage, with both banks and corporate demonstrating healthier financial positions.</p>

<p>Reacting to the RBI's decision to continue with the rate pause, Adhil Shetty, CEO of Bankbazaar.com, said, "The Reserve Bank of India expectedly kept the policy rates paused in its monetary policy review for October.&nbsp;This is welcome, although inflation is expected to remain elevated for longer than anticipated."</p>

<p>According to Shetty, interest rates and inflation are moving in a positive direction with limited upward risks. Additionally, he noted that the central bank intends to maintain control over growth expectations through various monetary policy tools.</p>

<p>This decision comes as the RBI continues to grapple with keeping retail inflation within the target of 4 per cent. While India's retail inflation eased to 6.83 per cent in August, Das acknowledged that it remains above the upper limit of RBI's tolerance band, highlighting concerns about inflation.</p>

<p>While the RBI governor anticipates a potential easing of retail inflation in September, the decline in kharif sowing poses a potential threat. The RBI has maintained its CPI-based inflation forecast for FY24 at 5.4 per cent.</p>

<p>In terms of GDP, the RBI has retained its forecast, expecting real gross domestic product (GDP) to grow at 6.5 per cent for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24).</p>

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced on Friday that the monetary policy committee (MPC) has opted to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced on Friday that the monetary policy committee (MPC) has opted to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.50 per cent, marking the fourth consecutive time the rate remains unchanged. In his policy statement, The Indian Express quoted Das as saying, "After a detailed assessment of the evolving macroeconomic and financial developments and the outlook, RBI's Monetary Policy Committee decided unanimously to keep the Policy Repo Rate unchanged at 6.5 per cent." He emphasised the importance of both macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth, asserting that the combination of policies implemented in recent years, despite facing numerous and unprecedented challenges, had contributed to the achievement of stability in both macroeconomics and finance. Das noted that India has transitioned from the twin balance sheet stress of a decade ago to a twin balance sheet advantage, with both banks and corporate demonstrating healthier financial positions. Reacting to the RBI's decision to continue with the rate pause, Adhil Shetty, CEO of Bankbazaar.com, said, "The Reserve Bank of India expectedly kept the policy rates paused in its monetary policy review for October. This is welcome, although inflation is expected to remain elevated for longer than anticipated." According to Shetty, interest rates and inflation are moving in a positive direction with limited upward risks. Additionally, he noted that the central bank intends to maintain control over growth expectations through various monetary policy tools. This decision comes as the RBI continues to grapple with keeping retail inflation within the target of 4 per cent. While India's retail inflation eased to 6.83 per cent in August, Das acknowledged that it remains above the upper limit of RBI's tolerance band, highlighting concerns about inflation. While the RBI governor anticipates a potential easing of retail inflation in September, the decline in kharif sowing poses a potential threat. The RBI has maintained its CPI-based inflation forecast for FY24 at 5.4 per cent. In terms of GDP, the RBI has retained its forecast, expecting real gross domestic product (GDP) to grow at 6.5 per cent for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24). WATCH WION LIVE HERE

RBI holds repo rate steady at 6.5 per cent for the fourth time, inflation remains a concern

Indian tech giants TCS, Infosys, and HCL are all set to announce their July to September quarter results next week. JPMorgan analysts expect investors to parse upcoming results & commentary from these companies for signs of recovery in deal signings next year after a "Washout" year.

‘Washout’ year for Indian tech firms?

India calls for balance in oil supply

Will the fight with India cost Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau his political career? Viral video shows Trudeau being humiliated by a voter who alleged that the PM has ruined Canada. Canadian universities are nervous about losing Indian students. Will angry voters forgive Trudeau?

Gravitas: Canada's Justin Trudeau to lose his job over fight with India?

Fans to flood the city of Ahmedabad for the India vs Pakistan match on October 14. Experts say the tournament could cause inflation to rise. India will host the ICC World Cup for the first time since 2011.

Gravitas | ICC World Cup 2023: India-Pak match to steal the show

Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised Indian Prime Minister Modi's leadership and lauded India for 'acting independently in the interests of its nation'. Putin slammed the West for 'attempting to turn India away from Russia'. The Russian President's comments come amidst India's diplomatic rift with Canada.

India Vs Canada: Putin backs 'powerful' India, praises PM Modi's strong leadership

Flash floods are wreaking havoc in India's Sikkim State. According to the latest reports, thousands of tourists stranded in Sikkim have been declared safe now and the Army and local administrations are providing assistance to restore Road connectivity as well. Evacuations and rescue operations are expected to start today.

Sikkim flash floods: Thousands are stranded, officials declare tourists safe

The India-Canada diplomatic row continues to worsen and there are media reports that state that Canada has actually evacuated its diplomatic staff from its High Commission in India.

India to raise issues with Canada at the P20 Summit next week

<p>Leading Indian tech firms are preparing for a tough year ahead as they look to bounce back in the next financial year after what JPMorgan analysts have referred to as a "washout" year.</p>

<p>The financial giant's analysts anticipate investors to closely examine the upcoming second-quarter results and comments from Indian tech companies for signs of a recovery in deal signings.</p>

<p>However, analysts Ankur Rudra and Bhavik Mehta have expressed their reservations, “We remain negative on the sector as we haven't seen a meaningful uptick in demand in our recent checks. We think the overall setup is not as positive as last quarter," Reuters quoted them as saying.</p>

<p>The Indian tech sector has been grappling with challenges as clients, primarily based in the United States, have reduced tech spending, delayed projects, and even cancelled contracts, citing concerns over slower economic growth and potential long-term interest rate hikes.</p>

<p>"Investors have assumed FY24 is a washout and shifted focus to FY25, hoping for a rebound," Reuters quoted the analysts as saying. They noted that this shift in focus has contributed to the Nifty IT index outperforming the broader Nifty 50 over the past three months.</p>

<p>In the upcoming quarterly earnings reports, the key areas of interest will be deal signings and the distinction between new deals and renewals. This analysis will help assess the potential for growth in fiscal 2025.</p>

<p>However, despite this anticipation, Rudra and Mehta have argued that their recent discussions with industry executives did not reveal "any meaningful optimism of a demand rebound."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are green shoots in certain paths, but overall decision-making and deal ramp-ups remain sluggish," both analysts noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JPMorgan's outlook for large-cap tech companies in fiscal 2025 suggests high single-digit earnings growth, which is lower than market expectations of double-digit growth. Similarly, mid-cap companies are expected to see low double-digit growth, compared to market expectations of mid-teens growth.</p>

<p><em>&nbsp;(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>

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Leading Indian tech firms are preparing for a tough year ahead as they look to bounce back in the next financial year after what JPMorgan analysts have referred to as a "washout" year.

Leading Indian tech firms are preparing for a tough year ahead as they look to bounce back in the next financial year after what JPMorgan analysts have referred to as a "washout" year. The financial giant's analysts anticipate investors to closely examine the upcoming second-quarter results and comments from Indian tech companies for signs of a recovery in deal signings. However, analysts Ankur Rudra and Bhavik Mehta have expressed their reservations, “We remain negative on the sector as we haven't seen a meaningful uptick in demand in our recent checks. We think the overall setup is not as positive as last quarter," Reuters quoted them as saying. The Indian tech sector has been grappling with challenges as clients, primarily based in the United States, have reduced tech spending, delayed projects, and even cancelled contracts, citing concerns over slower economic growth and potential long-term interest rate hikes. "Investors have assumed FY24 is a washout and shifted focus to FY25, hoping for a rebound," Reuters quoted the analysts as saying. They noted that this shift in focus has contributed to the Nifty IT index outperforming the broader Nifty 50 over the past three months. In the upcoming quarterly earnings reports, the key areas of interest will be deal signings and the distinction between new deals and renewals. This analysis will help assess the potential for growth in fiscal 2025. However, despite this anticipation, Rudra and Mehta have argued that their recent discussions with industry executives did not reveal "any meaningful optimism of a demand rebound." "There are green shoots in certain paths, but overall decision-making and deal ramp-ups remain sluggish," both analysts noted. JPMorgan's outlook for large-cap tech companies in fiscal 2025 suggests high single-digit earnings growth, which is lower than market expectations of double-digit growth. Similarly, mid-cap companies are expected to see low double-digit growth, compared to market expectations of mid-teens growth. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Here is JPMorgan's outlook for Indian tech firms

India's impressive performance at the Hangzhou Asian Games highlights its growing prominence in sports. Across various disciplines like shooting, compound archery, and athletics, India has excelled and shattered previous records. Remarkably, India is on the verge of reaching 100 medals, a significant leap from their previous best of 70 medals in the history of the Asian Games.

Asian Games 2023: India shines with 95 medals, surpasses its previous record of 70 medals in 2018

The United Auto Workers strike against the Detroit Three automakers and is now in its third week. Watch this story to know how it is related to the economic crisis.

Last-minute deal to avert shutdown raises economic crisis

At least 7 people were killed and over 40 injured in a blaze at a seven-story building in the Indian city of Mumbai. The blaze was reported at 3 am on at the Jai Bhavani building near Azad Maidan in Goregaon west area of India's financial capital. The fire department tagged the incident as a level-2 fire. Many vehicles were burnt to ashes. The injured have been admitted to two hospitals in the city. Mumbai fires have long raised questions about fire safety in India. Thousands of older buildings in India’s key financial hub are in disrepair, and experts say safety standards are not being universally enforced.

Building blaze in India's financial capital: 7 dead, over 40 injured | Many vehicles burnt to ashes

There are challenges in the world economy. There was a long period where the countries especially the US and other countries in the West kept their interest rates really down which led to debt building up. Watch this to know more.

US auto strike adds to economic challenges

A power shift in the Maldives with pro-China Mohamed Muizzu taking over as President means a massive shift in the Maldives-India relationship. Muizzu has already said he would adopt a pro-China stance and work to evict what he called 'foreign troops' from the Maldives. India watches with concern as Chinese influence rises in the Indian Ocean Region - in Sri Lanka, Nepal and now the Maldives.

China in, 'India out' in Maldives?

4 Indian states - Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Mizoram - go to polls by the end of 2023. Besides Telangana, these will be the last round of state polls before the national elections in the middle of 2024. That makes them a big litmus test for the parties going to the hustings. The states going to elections cover 66 parliamentary seats.

Election season heats up in India

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