The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), which led the 2020-21 famers' protests against the now repealed farm laws and was not a part of the 'Delhi Chalo' march to the Capital, has now jumped into the agitation, which will resume on Friday.

Farmers' Protest: Farmer leaders observe February 23 as 'Black Day'

Punjab-Haryana border has become a new battleground. Indian farmers are protesting on the border to reach Delhi. earlier the police initiated the National Security Act against the farmer leaders. However, the Haryana police announced on Feb 23 that they will not invoke the National Security Act.

Farmers' protest: What are the NSA charges that Haryana police revoked against farmers?

India's farmer leaders have decided to mobilize farmers nationwide on a range of demands including India's withdrawal from the World Trade Organization. Thousands of Indian farmers have been protesting against the central government for days. They are demanding a legal guarantee on the Minimum Support Price for 23 crops and farm loan waivers among other things.

Farmers' Protest: 21-year old farmer's death triggers outrage

Czech Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic has highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation. He also spoke on India's successful G20 presidency. Watch WION's diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal in an exclusive conversation with Jan Lipavsky.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky in an exclusive interview with WION

<p>An Indian man from the state of Andhra Pradesh has set a Guinness World Record by inventing the world's smallest washing machine. A video showcasing the functional&nbsp;washing machine was shared by Guinness World Records (GWR) on their Instagram handle, which has gone viral.</p>

<p>Created&nbsp;by Sai Tirumalaneedi, the washing machine stands at a minuscule size of 37 mm x 41 mm x 43 mm (1.45 in x 1.61 in x 1.69 in). Despite its tiny dimensions, the machine boasts fully functional features, including a switch and a miniature pipe, making it a marvel of micro-engineering.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3lWiWTqSaW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3lWiWTqSaW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3lWiWTqSaW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3lWiWTqSaW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Guinness World Records (@guinnessworldrecords)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><b>This is how it works</b></h2>

<p>In the video shared by GWR, Sai Tirumalaneedi demonstrates how the machine works.&nbsp;He meticulously places a piece of cloth, water, and washing detergent into the tiny machine before activating it. As the machine springs to life, it begins its cleaning cycle, effectively washing the cloth piece within its diminutive confines.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-sandeep-dhunia-alleged-mastermind-behind-1800-kg-pune-drug-bust-case-693044">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Sandeep Dhunia, alleged mastermind behind 1,800 kg Pune drug bust?</a></p>

<p>Within a day of its upload, the video garnered immense traction, accumulating over 5.1 million views and counting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenters on the post lauded Sai Tirumalaneedi for his remarkable achievement, with many commending his creativity and technical prowess.</p>

<p>One user praised his work, stating, "Good job, brother," while another marveled, "That is impressive." Despite acknowledging the machine's impracticality, viewers expressed awe at the sheer ingenuity behind its creation, with one commenter remarking, "Sure it may not be practical, but it's still pretty cool to see." Another user&nbsp;highlighted India's rich talent pool, exclaiming, "India is full of talented people!"</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India opens its space sector to 100% foreign investment with new FDI policy</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-opens-its-space-sector-to-100-foreign-investment-with-new-fdi-policy-693003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian man from the state of Andhra Pradesh has set a Guinness World Record by inventing the world's smallest washing machine. A video showcasing the functional washing machine was shared by Guinness World Records (GWR) on their Instagram handle, which has gone viral.

An Indian man from the state of Andhra Pradesh has set a Guinness World Record by inventing the world's smallest washing machine. A video showcasing the functional washing machine was shared by Guinness World Records (GWR) on their Instagram handle, which has gone viral. Created by Sai Tirumalaneedi, the washing machine stands at a minuscule size of 37 mm x 41 mm x 43 mm (1.45 in x 1.61 in x 1.69 in). Despite its tiny dimensions, the machine boasts fully functional features, including a switch and a miniature pipe, making it a marvel of micro-engineering. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guinness World Records (@guinnessworldrecords) × This is how it works In the video shared by GWR, Sai Tirumalaneedi demonstrates how the machine works. He meticulously places a piece of cloth, water, and washing detergent into the tiny machine before activating it. As the machine springs to life, it begins its cleaning cycle, effectively washing the cloth piece within its diminutive confines. Also read | Who is Sandeep Dhunia, alleged mastermind behind 1,800 kg Pune drug bust? Within a day of its upload, the video garnered immense traction, accumulating over 5.1 million views and counting. Commenters on the post lauded Sai Tirumalaneedi for his remarkable achievement, with many commending his creativity and technical prowess. One user praised his work, stating, "Good job, brother," while another marveled, "That is impressive." Despite acknowledging the machine's impracticality, viewers expressed awe at the sheer ingenuity behind its creation, with one commenter remarking, "Sure it may not be practical, but it's still pretty cool to see." Another user highlighted India's rich talent pool, exclaiming, "India is full of talented people!" Also watch | India opens its space sector to 100% foreign investment with new FDI policy (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Indian man creates world's smallest, fully functional washing machine, sets record

Indian-American student Akul Dhawan, who was found dead last month after he was reported to be missing for several hours, had frozen to death after a nightclub refused to give him entry, as per the latest reports.

Indian-origin student Akul Dhawan froze to death in Illinois after nightclub denied entry

<p>At the heart of the Pune police's investigation into one of the largest mephedrone seizures in India is a suspect named Sandeep Dhunia, a British national of Indian origin. Dhunia allegedly formed his cartel associates from people&nbsp;he met during his time in jail at Yerawada Central Prison following his arrest by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in a significant mephedrone haul in Pune in 2016.</p>

<p>The Pune City police's Crime Branch has seized approximately 1,800 kg of mephedrone valued at over $300 million.&nbsp;These seizures occurred during raids conducted at a chemical manufacturing factory in Daund taluka, towns&nbsp;in Pune's Vishrantwadi, various shops in South Extension in New Delhi, and additional locations in Sangli district.</p>

<p>Investigations exposed a sophisticated production line for the synthetic stimulant, which operated from a chemical factory masquerading as a pharmaceutical unit in Kurkumbh, Daund.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-drug-bust-meow-meow-haul-worth-300mn-seized-in-delhi-pune-raids-692204">Also read |&nbsp;Massive drug bust in India: 'Meow Meow' haul worth $300mn seized in Delhi, Pune raids</a></p>

<h2><strong>Legal pursuits and prosecution planning</strong></h2>

<p>Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, as quoted by the Indian Express, said, “We are seeking appointment of a special counsel in the case and we have started our planning to conduct prosecution in a fast track manner.”</p>

<p>Kumar further said, “Probe has already crystalised the aspect that consignments were being sent to London through a courier agency in Delhi. We are now collecting evidence on this and also trying to establish since when this was going on. One wanted accused, who is the mastermind of a vertical in the cartel, is a native of Bihar and is a British national. Our information suggests this person had gone to another country and from there he is known to have fled to another country since we launched the crackdown in this case. The process has been initiated for his arrest.”</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Manipur HC deletes part of earlier order for inclusion of Meiteis in ST list</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-manipur-hc-deletes-part-of-earlier-order-for-inclusion-of-meiteis-in-st-list-693024/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Authorities have uncovered evidence indicating that consignments of mephedrone were dispatched to London via a courier agency in Delhi. Efforts are underway to establish the duration and extent of this operation. One key suspect, a British national originally from Bihar, is believed to have fled the country amidst the crackdown.</p>

<p>Multiple suspects remain at large, prompting the deployment of police teams at various locations across the country for their apprehension.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At the heart of the Pune police's investigation into one of the largest mephedrone seizures in India is a suspect named Sandeep Dhunia, a British national of Indian origin.

At the heart of the Pune police's investigation into one of the largest mephedrone seizures in India is a suspect named Sandeep Dhunia, a British national of Indian origin. Dhunia allegedly formed his cartel associates from people he met during his time in jail at Yerawada Central Prison following his arrest by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in a significant mephedrone haul in Pune in 2016. The Pune City police's Crime Branch has seized approximately 1,800 kg of mephedrone valued at over $300 million. These seizures occurred during raids conducted at a chemical manufacturing factory in Daund taluka, towns in Pune's Vishrantwadi, various shops in South Extension in New Delhi, and additional locations in Sangli district. Investigations exposed a sophisticated production line for the synthetic stimulant, which operated from a chemical factory masquerading as a pharmaceutical unit in Kurkumbh, Daund. Also read | Massive drug bust in India: 'Meow Meow' haul worth $300mn seized in Delhi, Pune raids Legal pursuits and prosecution planning Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, as quoted by the Indian Express, said, “We are seeking appointment of a special counsel in the case and we have started our planning to conduct prosecution in a fast track manner.” Kumar further said, “Probe has already crystalised the aspect that consignments were being sent to London through a courier agency in Delhi. We are now collecting evidence on this and also trying to establish since when this was going on. One wanted accused, who is the mastermind of a vertical in the cartel, is a native of Bihar and is a British national. Our information suggests this person had gone to another country and from there he is known to have fled to another country since we launched the crackdown in this case. The process has been initiated for his arrest.” Also watch | India: Manipur HC deletes part of earlier order for inclusion of Meiteis in ST list Authorities have uncovered evidence indicating that consignments of mephedrone were dispatched to London via a courier agency in Delhi. Efforts are underway to establish the duration and extent of this operation. One key suspect, a British national originally from Bihar, is believed to have fled the country amidst the crackdown. Multiple suspects remain at large, prompting the deployment of police teams at various locations across the country for their apprehension. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Sandeep Dhunia, alleged mastermind behind 1,800 kg Pune drug bust?

<p>Estonia's&nbsp;Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION&nbsp;on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22). His visit to India has sparked significant interest and discussion, particularly regarding the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION's Sidhant Sibal interviewed the foreign minister to explore the developing relationship between Estonia and India, along with&nbsp;urgent global issues.</p>

<p><em><strong>Here is the transcript of the interview:</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see your India visit? What kind of engagements are you expecting here in Delhi?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Tsahkna:</strong> It is very important that we are here together with Nordic Baltic foreign ministers as a group. There are two sides to what I'm doing here. First is security and international situation, with Russia committing aggression to Ukraine, affecting us all. We have common ground as Russia targets democracies. India, being the largest democracy, has a crucial role.</p>

<p>Additionally, India has the...fastest-growing economy, so bilateral cooperation is vital. We've had meetings at the governmental level, including Invest India and...focusing on IT and defence industry, where Estonia excels.</p>

<p>Cybersecurity is another area of expertise, with 99 per cent of our public services online. We're eager to share our experience with India and collaborate on renewable energy and defense solutions.</p>

<p>India's 'Make in India' initiative presents opportunities for our companies to invest and scale up due to the vast Indian market."</p>

<p><strong>WION: You mentioned drones. What kind of cooperation are you seeking regarding drones, given their increasing significance globally?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Tsahkna: </strong>Drones are the future, useful not only in military but also in agriculture and other sectors. Estonian companies have innovated in this area, drawing from real war situations like Ukraine. We're keen to share this expertise.<br />
<br />
As a bordering country to Russia, Estonia has developed smart border solutions, aligning with India's needs. Despite the difference in scale, we share common values of democracy and freedom. The world, post-Russian aggression, needs democracies to stand together.</p>

<p><strong>WION: There are cyber[security] exercises between India and Estonia. Can you elaborate on that and how the opening of the Indian mission [in Estonia] has strengthened the relationship?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Tsahkna:</strong> Cybersecurity exercises are crucial, with NATO designating Estonia as a cyber defence centre. India's participation in such exercises fosters practical cooperation. The opening of the Indian embassy in Estonia enhances bilateral ties significantly. It facilitates direct communication, especially on security and business matters, and promotes educational exchanges due to Estonia's strong universities. Plans have been made to leverage this opportunity effectively.</p>

<p><strong>WION: What is this exercise? Is this a NATO exercise or is this an Estonia-led&nbsp;exercise?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Tsahkna:</strong>&nbsp;This is an international exercise, so there is no point in exercising alone. As I mentioned earlier, the competent centre&nbsp;for cyber defence is in Estonia. Therefore, we engage in many practical activities together.</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;When it comes to the opening up of the mission, how has that helped in strengthening the relationship?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Tsahkna:</strong>&nbsp;India has now opened embassies in all three Baltic countries, which is a significant development as it represents the highest level of representation in Estonia, as well as in Latvia and Lithuania.</p>

<p>This not only strengthens international relations but also enhances security cooperation and fosters business relations and specific projects.</p>

<p>Additionally, it facilitates educational exchanges, particularly with Estonia's strong universities, which are appealing to many Indian students. The decision to open an embassy in Estonia holds great value, and plans have been made to maximise the benefits of this initiative.</p>


Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22).

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22). His visit to India has sparked significant interest and discussion, particularly regarding the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations. WION's Sidhant Sibal interviewed the foreign minister to explore the developing relationship between Estonia and India, along with urgent global issues. Here is the transcript of the interview: WION: How do you see your India visit? What kind of engagements are you expecting here in Delhi? Tsahkna: It is very important that we are here together with Nordic Baltic foreign ministers as a group. There are two sides to what I'm doing here. First is security and international situation, with Russia committing aggression to Ukraine, affecting us all. We have common ground as Russia targets democracies. India, being the largest democracy, has a crucial role. Additionally, India has the...fastest-growing economy, so bilateral cooperation is vital. We've had meetings at the governmental level, including Invest India and...focusing on IT and defence industry, where Estonia excels. Cybersecurity is another area of expertise, with 99 per cent of our public services online. We're eager to share our experience with India and collaborate on renewable energy and defense solutions. India's 'Make in India' initiative presents opportunities for our companies to invest and scale up due to the vast Indian market." WION: You mentioned drones. What kind of cooperation are you seeking regarding drones, given their increasing significance globally? Tsahkna: Drones are the future, useful not only in military but also in agriculture and other sectors. Estonian companies have innovated in this area, drawing from real war situations like Ukraine. We're keen to share this expertise. As a bordering country to Russia, Estonia has developed smart border solutions, aligning with India's needs. Despite the difference in scale, we share common values of democracy and freedom. The world, post-Russian aggression, needs democracies to stand together. WION: There are cyber[security] exercises between India and Estonia. Can you elaborate on that and how the opening of the Indian mission [in Estonia] has strengthened the relationship? Tsahkna: Cybersecurity exercises are crucial, with NATO designating Estonia as a cyber defence centre. India's participation in such exercises fosters practical cooperation. The opening of the Indian embassy in Estonia enhances bilateral ties significantly. It facilitates direct communication, especially on security and business matters, and promotes educational exchanges due to Estonia's strong universities. Plans have been made to leverage this opportunity effectively. WION: What is this exercise? Is this a NATO exercise or is this an Estonia-led exercise? Tsahkna: This is an international exercise, so there is no point in exercising alone. As I mentioned earlier, the competent centre for cyber defence is in Estonia. Therefore, we engage in many practical activities together. WION: When it comes to the opening up of the mission, how has that helped in strengthening the relationship? Tsahkna: India has now opened embassies in all three Baltic countries, which is a significant development as it represents the highest level of representation in Estonia, as well as in Latvia and Lithuania. This not only strengthens international relations but also enhances security cooperation and fosters business relations and specific projects. Additionally, it facilitates educational exchanges, particularly with Estonia's strong universities, which are appealing to many Indian students. The decision to open an embassy in Estonia holds great value, and plans have been made to maximise the benefits of this initiative.

Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha on Thursday demanded Haryana Chief Minister and the Haryana Home Minister be booked for the "murder" of a protesting farmer on the Punjab-Haryana border and announced a tractor march next week.

Farmers' Protest: 21-year old farmer's death triggers outrage, SKM demands FIR against Haryana CM

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">In a financial twist, India has become the unexpected star in HSBC's profit galaxy, surpassing China and securing its position as the third-largest profitable region for the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp Ltd (HSBC) in 2023. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The financial giant revealed a 25 per cent surge in profit from its India operations, reaching an impressive $1.5 billion for the fiscal year ending December 2023. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This shift marks a significant leap for India, considering it generated a profit of $1.2 billion in 2022.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The annual report from HSBC unveiled key insights into the factors driving India's stellar performance. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">One of the pivotal contributors was a notable reduction in anticipated credit loss provisions, dropping from $90 million in 2022 to $51 million in 2023. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The global banking and markets segment emerged as HSBC's primary revenue source in India, boasting a robust 24 per cent profit increase to $774 million in 2023 from $622 million the previous year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Additionally, the commercial banking sector, catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), witnessed a remarkable 31 per cent surge in pre-tax profit, reaching $398 million.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">HSBC's positive outlook for India stems from its recognition of the nation's economic potential. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The bank highlighted that India, along with Vietnam, is among the fastest-growing economies globally, benefiting from competitive labour costs, supportive policies, and evolving supply chains. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">With 42,000 employees in India operations, HSBC predicts that the economies of South and Southeast Asia will carry strong economic momentum into 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The contrasting fortunes of India and China in HSBC's financial landscape become even more apparent when comparing their profit trajectories. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">While India soared with a 25 per cent profit increase, China experienced an 89 per cent decline in profit, plummeting from $3.40 billion in 2022 to a mere $371 million in 2023. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This drastic shift in China's financial standing was attributed to losses incurred in wealth management, personal banking, and corporate centre verticals.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">HSBC, recognising the potential for further growth, aims to bolster its wholesale franchise by tapping into corporate supply chains in India. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The bank is also capitalising on the wealth pools of the Indian diaspora with the launch of onshore Global Private Banking. <o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">With an optimistic outlook, HSBC envisions the economies of south and southeast Asia, particularly India and Vietnam, continuing to thrive in 2024, driven by competitive labour costs, supportive policies, and dynamic supply chains.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span lang="EN-GB">(With inputs from PTI)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>


In a financial twist, India has become the unexpected star in HSBC's profit galaxy, surpassing China and securing its position as the third-largest profitable region for the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp Ltd (HSBC) in 2023.

In a financial twist, India has become the unexpected star in HSBC's profit galaxy, surpassing China and securing its position as the third-largest profitable region for the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp Ltd (HSBC) in 2023. The financial giant revealed a 25 per cent surge in profit from its India operations, reaching an impressive $1.5 billion for the fiscal year ending December 2023. This shift marks a significant leap for India, considering it generated a profit of $1.2 billion in 2022. The annual report from HSBC unveiled key insights into the factors driving India's stellar performance. One of the pivotal contributors was a notable reduction in anticipated credit loss provisions, dropping from $90 million in 2022 to $51 million in 2023. The global banking and markets segment emerged as HSBC's primary revenue source in India, boasting a robust 24 per cent profit increase to $774 million in 2023 from $622 million the previous year. Additionally, the commercial banking sector, catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), witnessed a remarkable 31 per cent surge in pre-tax profit, reaching $398 million. HSBC's positive outlook for India stems from its recognition of the nation's economic potential. The bank highlighted that India, along with Vietnam, is among the fastest-growing economies globally, benefiting from competitive labour costs, supportive policies, and evolving supply chains. With 42,000 employees in India operations, HSBC predicts that the economies of South and Southeast Asia will carry strong economic momentum into 2024. The contrasting fortunes of India and China in HSBC's financial landscape become even more apparent when comparing their profit trajectories. While India soared with a 25 per cent profit increase, China experienced an 89 per cent decline in profit, plummeting from $3.40 billion in 2022 to a mere $371 million in 2023. This drastic shift in China's financial standing was attributed to losses incurred in wealth management, personal banking, and corporate centre verticals. HSBC, recognising the potential for further growth, aims to bolster its wholesale franchise by tapping into corporate supply chains in India. The bank is also capitalising on the wealth pools of the Indian diaspora with the launch of onshore Global Private Banking. With an optimistic outlook, HSBC envisions the economies of south and southeast Asia, particularly India and Vietnam, continuing to thrive in 2024, driven by competitive labour costs, supportive policies, and dynamic supply chains. (With inputs from PTI)

India surpasses China, emerges as HSBC's third-largest profit hub in 2023

A shocking drug Menace has rocked two major cities in India. In a recent operation in Delhi, Pune authorities seized a huge amount of the banned drug commonly known as 'Meow meow'. Molly Gambhir brings more information in this report.

Gravitas | Meow meow drug worth over Rs. 2500 crores busted in Delhi, Pune

India has decided to ease the entry for foreign direct investment in the space sector. The move will allow 100% foreign direct investment in the manufacture of satellite systems without any approval from the government. But will the policy change open doors for opportunistic takeovers? Will China use the opportunity to hijack India's space ambitions?

Gravitas | India's game-changing FDI move will boost India's space goals | Here's how

The latest data on salaries reveals a balanced outlook for India in 2024. While hikes are expected to moderate slightly, there's good news for professionals in specific sectors.

India tops salary increases among major economies

Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata speaks to WION on India-Italy relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Senator Giulio spoke about G7 summit, China and more.

Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata speaks to WION on India-Italy relationship

Sri Lanka's Deputy Foreign Minister Tharaka Balasuiriya speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi,Sri Lanka's Deputy Foreign Minister spoke about India Sri Lanka relationship, tourism, China and more.

Sri Lanka's Deputy FM Tharaka Balasuiriya speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka relationship

Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik speaks to WION on India-Nordic relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister spoke about India-Nordic relationship, India-Nordic summit and more.

Norway's Deputy FM Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik speaks to WION on India-Nordic relationship

Thousands of protesting farmers in India have put their march to Delhi on hold for two days. The decision was prompted by the death of a 22 year old protester on the Punjab-Haryana Khanauri border.

Indian farmers pause march to Delhi after protester’s death

A huge row has erupted over congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks on Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas | Rahul Gandhi's remarks on Aishwarya Rai, Amitabh Bachchan trigger row

India is standing firm to 'bully' China at the border with 'mirror military deployment'. In Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army has beefed up its combat potential, as well as air connectivity at the Line of Actual Control or LAC.

Gravitas | India stands up to 'bully' China at the border | Boosts firepower in Arunachal Pradesh

In India, protesting farmers, as per reports, have temporarily suspended their 'Delhi Chalo' march for two days, as of Wednesday evening (Feb 21st).

Farmers protest: 'Delhi Chalo' protest march to be suspended for 2 days, announces farmer leader

Estonia Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna speaks to WION on India-Estonia relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Estonia Foreign Minister said, 'India is the biggest economy and growing economy. So bilaterally as well we have had many meetings on the governmental level but also in Invest India, Defense Ministry and many others because our cooperation bilaterally is going to be more precise and more active and mainly in IT sector and defense industry. Because Estonia is the leading country in the world for IT and Cyber security. 99% of our public services are online. So this is some experience we can share as well to India.' Watch to know more!

Estonia Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna speaks to WION on India-Estonia relationship

A tug-of-war is going on between the Indian government and farmers over MSP. The minimum support price for 23 crops has become a contentious topic.

India Farmers' protest: The cost of MSP to government is in trillions of rupees

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Austria's Labour Minister Martin Kocher on FTA talks said, 'In Europe the European Commission is negotiating the treaties with countries when it comes to free trade, but many countries especially smaller countries in Europe, they actually welcome the developments. There is momentum that they should see. And I hope that we have swift negotiations that will find the solution on a fair and equitable level that benefits both sides, Not only the companies but also the populations on both sides.' Watch to know more!

Austria's Labour Minister Martin Kocher speaks to WION on India-Austria ties, FTA

india

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news