Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the next hundred days are important for the party while addressing the National Convention of the Bhartiya Janta Party at Delhi's Bharat Mandapam on Sunday.

India: PM Modi outlines election strategy at BJP's National Convention, says next 100 days important

The protesting farmers in India have decided to pause their 'Delhi Chalo' March. This, after days of negotiations with the government, finally resulted in some headway. During the fourth round of talks with the farm leaders, the government proposed a five-year MSP plan. The farmers say they are seeking advice on the latest measures announced by the government.

Govt agrees to give MSP on four more crops apart from Paddy & Wheat

Farmer leaders on Sunday announced that the Delhi Chalo march has been put on hold since they will study the Centre's new plan for the minimum support price (MSP) for crops. They, however, said that the Delhi Chalo march could resume on February 21 if all the issues are not resolved.

India Farmers' Protest: 'Delhi chalo' march on hold after meeting with govt

It is often believed that China viewed the United States as the number one cyber threat. But now according to a Chinese security expert, it's not the United States but India has become a major source of cyber security threat in the country.

Report: The biggest cyber security threat for China is India

The Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government succeeded in passing a trust vote during the Budget session in the Delhi Assembly on Saturday. Out of the 62 AAP MLAs, 54 were present for the voting. Kejriwal affirmed that there were no defections within the AAP, clarifying that two MLAs were in jail, while others were either unwell or out of town.

Simultaneously, Arvind Kejriwal appeared before a Delhi court via video conferencing in response to five earlier summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding the liquor policy case on Saturday (Feb 17). The court, stressing on&nbsp;Kejriwal's legal obligation to comply, adjourned the hearing to March 16.

<h2>ED's allegations and Kejriwal's defiance</h2>

The ED has accused the Delhi chief minister of deliberately evading summons and providing "lame excuses," asserting that his non-compliance sets a negative precedent for the public.

Kejriwal's motion for a trust vote coincides with the ED's upcoming sixth summon&nbsp;on February 19, amidst AAP's persistent claims of illegal summons&nbsp;and alleged arrest threats.

Ahead of the confidence vote, Kejriwal alleged BJP's attempts to coerce AAP MLAs into defection, citing instances where BJP members purportedly approached MLAs with arrest threats against the chief minister and offers of monetary inducement to switch parties.

Kejriwal aims to use the trust vote to put forth AAP's unity and deter defections. With AAP having 62 MLAs in the 70-member Assembly and BJP eight, Kejriwal seeks to solidify his party's position amidst growing political tensions.

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VIDEO | "On contacting our MLAs, we found out that they tried to poach seven of our legislators. These MLAs today said in the House that they approached (by the BJP). Like Rajesh Gupta said, they (BJP) want us to show a proof. How can we show a proof? A person doesn't carry tape… <a href="https://t.co/inXHbPiChF">pic.twitter.com/inXHbPiChF</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1758758836297707920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-jaishankar-meets-canadian-fm-blinken-in-munich-to-discuss-bilateral-ties-691096">Also read |&nbsp;India: S Jaishankar meets Canadian FM, Blinken in Munich to discuss bilateral ties</a>

&nbsp;

During his speech in the legislative assembly, the Chief Minister of Delhi highlighted that the AAP stands as the primary opposition to the BJP, hence facing criticism from various quarters.

“The way they (BJP) have attacked the AAP and arrested our ministers; people across the country are aware of this. They think that people are fool, but they are not. Now discussions are being held in parks and people are asking 'does PM Modi want to crush Arvind Kejriwal'? Even children are asking this question because they have arrested so many of our ministers,” Arvind Kejriwal said.

&nbsp;

He further accused the BJP of impeding the functioning of his administration by seizing authority over the services department and the bureaucracy.

"They claim to be Ram bhakt but they stopped medicines for the poor people in our hospitals. Did Lord Ram ask for stopping medicines for the poor people?" PTI quoted Kejriwal as saying.

<h2>Implications of the liquor policy case</h2>

The ongoing legal battle involving allegations of corruption in the liquor policy implicates both the AAP and the BJP.

The ED alleges kickbacks and money laundering, while the&nbsp;BJP claims AAP used illicit funds for political campaigns. This has&nbsp;further escalated&nbsp;tensions between the two parties.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: INSAT-3DS to lift off from Sriharikota

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government succeeded in passing a trust vote during the Budget session in the Delhi Assembly on Saturday. Out of the 62 AAP MLAs, 54 were present for the voting.

The Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government succeeded in passing a trust vote during the Budget session in the Delhi Assembly on Saturday. Out of the 62 AAP MLAs, 54 were present for the voting. Kejriwal affirmed that there were no defections within the AAP, clarifying that two MLAs were in jail, while others were either unwell or out of town. Simultaneously, Arvind Kejriwal appeared before a Delhi court via video conferencing in response to five earlier summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding the liquor policy case on Saturday (Feb 17). The court, stressing on Kejriwal's legal obligation to comply, adjourned the hearing to March 16. ED's allegations and Kejriwal's defiance The ED has accused the Delhi chief minister of deliberately evading summons and providing "lame excuses," asserting that his non-compliance sets a negative precedent for the public. Kejriwal's motion for a trust vote coincides with the ED's upcoming sixth summon on February 19, amidst AAP's persistent claims of illegal summons and alleged arrest threats. Ahead of the confidence vote, Kejriwal alleged BJP's attempts to coerce AAP MLAs into defection, citing instances where BJP members purportedly approached MLAs with arrest threats against the chief minister and offers of monetary inducement to switch parties. Kejriwal aims to use the trust vote to put forth AAP's unity and deter defections. With AAP having 62 MLAs in the 70-member Assembly and BJP eight, Kejriwal seeks to solidify his party's position amidst growing political tensions. VIDEO | "On contacting our MLAs, we found out that they tried to poach seven of our legislators. These MLAs today said in the House that they approached (by the BJP). Like Rajesh Gupta said, they (BJP) want us to show a proof. How can we show a proof? A person doesn't carry tape… pic.twitter.com/inXHbPiChF — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2024 × Also read | India: S Jaishankar meets Canadian FM, Blinken in Munich to discuss bilateral ties During his speech in the legislative assembly, the Chief Minister of Delhi highlighted that the AAP stands as the primary opposition to the BJP, hence facing criticism from various quarters. “The way they (BJP) have attacked the AAP and arrested our ministers; people across the country are aware of this. They think that people are fool, but they are not. Now discussions are being held in parks and people are asking 'does PM Modi want to crush Arvind Kejriwal'? Even children are asking this question because they have arrested so many of our ministers,” Arvind Kejriwal said. He further accused the BJP of impeding the functioning of his administration by seizing authority over the services department and the bureaucracy. "They claim to be Ram bhakt but they stopped medicines for the poor people in our hospitals. Did Lord Ram ask for stopping medicines for the poor people?" PTI quoted Kejriwal as saying. Implications of the liquor policy case The ongoing legal battle involving allegations of corruption in the liquor policy implicates both the AAP and the BJP. The ED alleges kickbacks and money laundering, while the BJP claims AAP used illicit funds for political campaigns. This has further escalated tensions between the two parties. Also watch | India: INSAT-3DS to lift off from Sriharikota (With inputs from agencies)

India: Arvind Kejriwal's AAP govt secures trust vote in Delhi assembly with backing of 54 MLAs

Indian taxpayers with lingering doubts can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has initiated a taxpayer-friendly move, extinguishing eligible outstanding direct tax demands up to Rs 1 lakh per individual.

As per the&nbsp;order&nbsp;issued on February 13, 2024, the process to remit and extinguish qualifies for&nbsp;outstanding tax demands as of January 31, 2024.<o:p></o:p>

This initiative, outlined in the 2024 Interim Budget, aims to clear the books for millions and streamline the tax ecosystem.<o:p></o:p>

Wiping the slate clean<o:p></o:p>

This move targets a significant chunk of taxpayers burdened by "petty, non-verified, non-reconciled or disputed" demands dating back to 1962. <o:p></o:p>

These demands, often stemming from the Income-tax Act&nbsp;1961, Wealth-tax Act&nbsp;1957, and Gift-tax Act 1958, have caused undue anxiety and hindered refunds for many.<o:p></o:p>

How much relief?<o:p></o:p>

The remission varies based on assessment years:

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Assessment years 2010-11 onwards:&nbsp;Up to Rs 25,000 per demand entry.</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Assessment years 2011-12 to 2015-16:&nbsp;Up to Rs10,000 per demand entry.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

Importantly, an overall cap of Rs 1 lakh per taxpayer exists, excluding demands related to tax deducted at source (TDS) or tax credited at source (TCS).<o:p></o:p>

Not everyone gets a free pass<o:p></o:p>

While offering widespread relief, the initiative excludes demands against tax deductors/collectors under TDS/TCS provisions and any ongoing criminal proceedings against taxpayers.<o:p></o:p>

Interest no more a burden<o:p></o:p>

In a welcome move, the order eliminates the need to calculate interest on delayed payments for extinguished demands. This further eases the financial burden on relieved taxpayers.<o:p></o:p>

Checking your status<o:p></o:p>

Taxpayers can easily verify their extinguished demands by logging into the income tax portal and navigating to "Pending Action &gt; Response to Outstanding Demand".<o:p></o:p>

Indian taxpayers with lingering doubts can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has initiated a taxpayer-friendly move, extinguishing eligible outstanding direct tax demands up to Rs 1 lakh per individual.

Indian taxpayers with lingering doubts can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has initiated a taxpayer-friendly move, extinguishing eligible outstanding direct tax demands up to Rs 1 lakh per individual. As per the order issued on February 13, 2024, the process to remit and extinguish qualifies for outstanding tax demands as of January 31, 2024. This initiative, outlined in the 2024 Interim Budget, aims to clear the books for millions and streamline the tax ecosystem. Wiping the slate clean This move targets a significant chunk of taxpayers burdened by "petty, non-verified, non-reconciled or disputed" demands dating back to 1962. These demands, often stemming from the Income-tax Act 1961, Wealth-tax Act 1957, and Gift-tax Act 1958, have caused undue anxiety and hindered refunds for many. How much relief? The remission varies based on assessment years: Assessment years 2010-11 onwards: Up to Rs 25,000 per demand entry. Assessment years 2011-12 to 2015-16: Up to Rs10,000 per demand entry. Importantly, an overall cap of Rs 1 lakh per taxpayer exists, excluding demands related to tax deducted at source (TDS) or tax credited at source (TCS). Not everyone gets a free pass While offering widespread relief, the initiative excludes demands against tax deductors/collectors under TDS/TCS provisions and any ongoing criminal proceedings against taxpayers. Interest no more a burden In a welcome move, the order eliminates the need to calculate interest on delayed payments for extinguished demands. This further eases the financial burden on relieved taxpayers. Checking your status Taxpayers can easily verify their extinguished demands by logging into the income tax portal and navigating to "Pending Action > Response to Outstanding Demand".

Indian Government waives tax demands up to Rs 1 lakh, providing relief to taxpayers

Indian senior women's hockey coach Janneke Schopmann has made a big claim. After India's 2-1 win over USA, via shootout, in the FIH Pro League match in Rourkela on Sunday (Feb 18), the&nbsp;46-year-old former Dutch player&nbsp;alleged differential treatment meted out to her by&nbsp;the administrators of the sport in India. She went onto add that&nbsp;she has felt all alone since taking over as&nbsp;the head coach. Schopman further&nbsp;stated that&nbsp;her opinions have not been valued enough since taking over from Sjoerd Marijne.

<h2>‘I come from a culture where women are respected and valued,&nbsp;don’t feel that here’</h2>

Schopman&nbsp;said, "Because I come from a culture where women are respected and valued. I don’t feel that here. From not very many people – and I do feel people working here on the ground are amazing from Hockey India. But I feel it’s so hard."

She further opined, "I look at the difference in how men’s coaches are treated between me and the men’s coach, or the girls and the men’s team, just in general. They never complain and they work so hard. I am not saying, I don’t know, I don’t know why and I shouldn’t speak for them so I won't."

"I love them. I think they work so hard, they do what I ask, they wanna learn, wanna do new things but for me personally coming from the Netherlands, having worked in the USA, this country is extremely difficult as a woman, coming from a culture where, yeah, you can have an opinion and it’s valued. It’s really hard," the Dutch woman added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-italys-jannik-sinner-savours-rotterdam-success-after-australian-open-high-691627">Tennis: Italy's Jannik Sinner savours Rotterdam success after Australian Open high</a>

Schopman,&nbsp;who secured a gold medal with her national side&nbsp;in&nbsp;Beijing Olympics, took over from&nbsp;Marijne after the latter declined an extension offer. She served as the analytical coach for the women's hockey team in early 2020 but got elevated as the head coach following Tokyo Games.

The former Netherlands player pointed out, "Even when I was the assistant coach, some people wouldn't even look at me or wouldn't acknowledge me or wouldn't respond and then you become the chief coach and all of a sudden, people are interested in you. I struggled a lot with that. That is one thing."

Schopman has revealed that&nbsp;she is undecided&nbsp;on whether to stay on as the head coach. However, she was quick to point out that&nbsp;players want her to carry on and guide them.

"I'm going to reflect, 'did I do a good enough job, yes or no?'. I need to ask that myself. I have spoken to the players a little. I appreciate their opinion. They are the ones in charge. I think they need to want me to be there, that's the first decision. Also, I need to want to be there. Hockey India needs to want me to be there. At this point, I must say Dilip Tirkey has been very very supportive since the Asian Games and that, I have appreciated a lot. It's been tough for me, the team. I must say the support I haven't felt a lot in the last year so his support means a lot," she added.

Indian senior women's hockey coach Janneke Schopmann has made a big claim. After India's 2-1 win over USA, via shootout, in the FIH Pro League match in Rourkela on Sunday (Feb 18), the 46-year-old former Dutch player alleged differential treatment meted out to her by the administrators of the sport in India.

Indian senior women's hockey coach Janneke Schopmann has made a big claim. After India's 2-1 win over USA, via shootout, in the FIH Pro League match in Rourkela on Sunday (Feb 18), the 46-year-old former Dutch player alleged differential treatment meted out to her by the administrators of the sport in India. She went onto add that she has felt all alone since taking over as the head coach. Schopman further stated that her opinions have not been valued enough since taking over from Sjoerd Marijne. ‘I come from a culture where women are respected and valued, don’t feel that here’ Schopman said, "Because I come from a culture where women are respected and valued. I don’t feel that here. From not very many people – and I do feel people working here on the ground are amazing from Hockey India. But I feel it’s so hard." She further opined, "I look at the difference in how men’s coaches are treated between me and the men’s coach, or the girls and the men’s team, just in general. They never complain and they work so hard. I am not saying, I don’t know, I don’t know why and I shouldn’t speak for them so I won't." "I love them. I think they work so hard, they do what I ask, they wanna learn, wanna do new things but for me personally coming from the Netherlands, having worked in the USA, this country is extremely difficult as a woman, coming from a culture where, yeah, you can have an opinion and it’s valued. It’s really hard," the Dutch woman added. Also read: Tennis: Italy's Jannik Sinner savours Rotterdam success after Australian Open high Schopman, who secured a gold medal with her national side in Beijing Olympics, took over from Marijne after the latter declined an extension offer. She served as the analytical coach for the women's hockey team in early 2020 but got elevated as the head coach following Tokyo Games. The former Netherlands player pointed out, "Even when I was the assistant coach, some people wouldn't even look at me or wouldn't acknowledge me or wouldn't respond and then you become the chief coach and all of a sudden, people are interested in you. I struggled a lot with that. That is one thing." Schopman has revealed that she is undecided on whether to stay on as the head coach. However, she was quick to point out that players want her to carry on and guide them. "I'm going to reflect, 'did I do a good enough job, yes or no?'. I need to ask that myself. I have spoken to the players a little. I appreciate their opinion. They are the ones in charge. I think they need to want me to be there, that's the first decision. Also, I need to want to be there. Hockey India needs to want me to be there. At this point, I must say Dilip Tirkey has been very very supportive since the Asian Games and that, I have appreciated a lot. It's been tough for me, the team. I must say the support I haven't felt a lot in the last year so his support means a lot," she added.

This country is extremely difficult as a woman, says India women’s hockey team coach Janneke Schopmann

According to a new research, locust outbreaks could worsen as global temperatures continue to climb. The study is the first to show a robust link between large-scale, synchronous locust swarms and specific weather patterns.

Locust outbreak linked to climate crisis; Afghanistan, Iran & India can become hotspot

Indian senior women's hockey coach Janneke Schopmann has made a big claim. After India's 2-1 win over USA, via shootout, in the FIH Pro League match in Rourkela on Sunday (Feb 18), the&nbsp;46-year-old former Dutch player&nbsp;alleged differential treatment meted out to her by&nbsp;the administrators of the sport in India. She went onto add that&nbsp;she has felt all alone since taking over as&nbsp;the head coach. Schopman further&nbsp;stated that&nbsp;her opinions have not been valued enough since taking over from Sjoerd Marijne.

<h2>'I come from a culture where women are respected and valued,&nbsp;don’t feel that here'</h2>

Schopman&nbsp;said, "Because I come from a culture where women are respected and valued. I don’t feel that here. From not very many people – and I do feel people working here on the ground are amazing from Hockey India. But I feel it’s so hard."

She further opined, "I look at the difference in how men’s coaches are treated between me and the men’s coach, or the girls and the men’s team, just in general. They never complain and they work so hard. I am not saying, I don’t know, I don’t know why and I shouldn’t speak for them so I won't."

"I love them. I think they work so hard, they do what I ask, they wanna learn, wanna do new things but for me personally coming from the Netherlands, having worked in the USA, this country is extremely difficult as a woman, coming from a culture where, yeah, you can have an opinion and it’s valued. It’s really hard," the Dutch woman added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-italys-jannik-sinner-savours-rotterdam-success-after-australian-open-high-691627">Tennis: Italy's Jannik Sinner savours Rotterdam success after Australian Open high</a>

Schopman,&nbsp;who secured a gold medal with her national side&nbsp;in&nbsp;Beijing Olympics, took over from&nbsp;Marijne after the latter declined an extension offer. She served as the analytical coach for the women's hockey team in early 2020 but got elevated as the head coach following Tokyo Games.

The former Netherlands player pointed out, "Even when I was the assistant coach, some people wouldn't even look at me or wouldn't acknowledge me or wouldn't respond and then you become the chief coach and all of a sudden, people are interested in you. I struggled a lot with that. That is one thing."

Schopman has revealed that&nbsp;she is undecided&nbsp;on whether to stay on as the head coach. However, she was quick to point out that&nbsp;players want her to carry on and guide them.

"I'm going to reflect, 'did I do a good enough job, yes or no?'. I need to ask that myself. I have spoken to the players a little. I appreciate their opinion. They are the ones in charge. I think they need to want me to be there, that's the first decision. Also, I need to want to be there. Hockey India needs to want me to be there. At this point, I must say Dilip Tirkey has been very very supportive since the Asian Games and that, I have appreciated a lot. It's been tough for me, the team. I must say the support I haven't felt a lot in the last year so his support means a lot," she added.

Indian senior women's hockey coach Janneke Schopmann has made a big claim. After India's 2-1 win over USA, via shootout, in the FIH Pro League match in Rourkela on Sunday (Feb 18), the 46-year-old former Dutch player alleged differential treatment meted out to her by the administrators of the sport in India. She went onto add that she has felt all alone since taking over as the head coach. Schopman further stated that her opinions have not been valued enough since taking over from Sjoerd Marijne. 'I come from a culture where women are respected and valued, don’t feel that here' Schopman said, "Because I come from a culture where women are respected and valued. I don’t feel that here. From not very many people – and I do feel people working here on the ground are amazing from Hockey India. But I feel it’s so hard." She further opined, "I look at the difference in how men’s coaches are treated between me and the men’s coach, or the girls and the men’s team, just in general. They never complain and they work so hard. I am not saying, I don’t know, I don’t know why and I shouldn’t speak for them so I won't." "I love them. I think they work so hard, they do what I ask, they wanna learn, wanna do new things but for me personally coming from the Netherlands, having worked in the USA, this country is extremely difficult as a woman, coming from a culture where, yeah, you can have an opinion and it’s valued. It’s really hard," the Dutch woman added. Also read: Tennis: Italy's Jannik Sinner savours Rotterdam success after Australian Open high Schopman, who secured a gold medal with her national side in Beijing Olympics, took over from Marijne after the latter declined an extension offer. She served as the analytical coach for the women's hockey team in early 2020 but got elevated as the head coach following Tokyo Games. The former Netherlands player pointed out, "Even when I was the assistant coach, some people wouldn't even look at me or wouldn't acknowledge me or wouldn't respond and then you become the chief coach and all of a sudden, people are interested in you. I struggled a lot with that. That is one thing." Schopman has revealed that she is undecided on whether to stay on as the head coach. However, she was quick to point out that players want her to carry on and guide them. "I'm going to reflect, 'did I do a good enough job, yes or no?'. I need to ask that myself. I have spoken to the players a little. I appreciate their opinion. They are the ones in charge. I think they need to want me to be there, that's the first decision. Also, I need to want to be there. Hockey India needs to want me to be there. At this point, I must say Dilip Tirkey has been very very supportive since the Asian Games and that, I have appreciated a lot. It's been tough for me, the team. I must say the support I haven't felt a lot in the last year so his support means a lot," she added.

This country is extremely difficult as a woman, claims India women's hockey team coach Janneke Schopmann

European scientists last month, declared that the world had experienced its hottest January on record. And now, February is on course to become the hottest on record as well. This comes as scientists warn that the planet is heating up at an accelerating pace.

Planet warming at an accelerating rate

About 48,17,441 candidates are appearing for their exams, huge rush was witnessed across districts of Uttar Pradesh. Of the total candidates, 15,48,969 are female candidates.

India: Uttar Pradesh Police recruitment faces surge

The fourth round of talks in Chandigarh between the farmers and the government in a bid to end the deadlock over the demand for MSP guarantee of crops for farmers ended. The government proposed a new scheme for MSPs and the farmers will discuss the proposal and reply on Monday.

India Farmers' Protest: Fourth round of Govt-farmers' talk concludes

Indian farmers paused protests on Monday (February 19) in the northern Punjab-Haryana border. They will seek legal and agricultural advice on the five-year minimum support price plan proposed by Centre. The government proposed a five-year MSP plan after their fourth meeting with farmers.

Farmers' protest: Indian government's 5-year MSP plan for key crops explained

ISRO successfully launched its 16th mission, the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS (meteorological satellite) Mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. The INSAT-3DS is India's latest Met satellite. The satellite can tap & locate distress calls with special equipment. Watch to know more!

India's ISRO launches advanced weather satellite INSAT-3DS

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP.

India Farmers' Protest: Farmers to stage 'dharna' in 4 states on Feb 21, demand ordinance over MSP

Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' protest march began on February 13. Borders around New Delhi remain heavily barricaded. A sectoral industrial strike and Grameen Bharat Bandh have been called by the workers and farmers on 16 February, Friday.

India Farmers' Protest: Third round of farmer-govt talks failed, fourth round awaited on Sunday

Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' protest march began on February 13. Haryana's Shambhu border remains centre of farmers' agitation. Borders around New Delhi remain heavily barricaded. A sectoral industrial strike and Grameen Bharat Bandh have been called by the workers and farmers on 16 February, Friday.

India's Farmers' Protest | A law on minimum support price for crops: Farmers' demands

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the valedictory address on the second day of the BJPs national council meeting in New Delhi. The big focus was infusing the cadre of the BJP to prepare for general elections in India due in April or May, the date is not set yet. He set targets for the next 100 days and streamlined goals. Watch to know more!

India's PM Modi shares strategy for 2024 elections, sets 370 seats target during Council Meet of BJP

India on Friday (Feb 16) questioned for how long&nbsp;the will of five permanent members of the powerful UN Security Council will&nbsp;continue to override the collective voice of the world organisation's 188 member states.

India's Permanent Representative at the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, speaking at the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGNs) on Security Council Reform on Friday, said that "equity" must be the cornerstone of global efforts to reform the 15-nation UN body.

Since 2008, the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) take place in the informal plenary of a session of the UN General Assembly to address the question of equitable representation and increase in the membership of the Security Council.&nbsp;

By their "informal" nature,&nbsp;the Inter-Governmental Negotiation (IGN) on UN Security Council reform does not have any draft text on the table to negotiate.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-chinas-smokescreen-tricks-the-world-against-reforms-at-un-security-council-635950?utm_source=izooto&amp;utm_medium=push_notifications&amp;utm_campaign=Beijing%20for%20Global%20South?%20Really">How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council</a>

"Equity demands that every nation, irrespective of its size or power, be afforded an equal opportunity…to shape global decision-making," Kamboj&nbsp;said, adding that "Our question therefore is how much longer will the will of five members continue to override the collective voice of 188 member states?".

Kamboj noted that there are many fundamental issues in the discourse over UNSC reform but “the most fundamental is this question. Can we allow five permanent members, and we've all just agreed that this permanent category is not going to go away, to eternally override the collective voice of 188 member states?"

"This must change," she emphasised.

Kamboj's comment was a reference to the five permanent members of the Council - China, France, Russia, the UK and the US - whose exclusive veto rights have the power to impact decision-making in the Security Council on matters of maintenance of international peace and security.

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"How much longer, the will of 5 members will continue to override the collective will of 188 states, this much change", Indian Envoy to UN Ruchira kamboj <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNNewYork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaUNNewYork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ruchirakamboj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ruchirakamboj</a> as she pitches for UNSC reforms. <a href="https://t.co/OdCBJcs9Al">pic.twitter.com/OdCBJcs9Al</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1758729900012589442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Council's other 10 members are elected for two-year terms to the non-permanent category and they do not have veto powers.&nbsp;

India has been an eight-term elected member of the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

Kamboj also highlighted the need to redress "centuries of injustice".

"I think we might all broadly agree that the historical injustices perpetrated against the Global South can no longer be ignored," she said, adding that it is time to rectify these disparities by ensuring greater representation for regions like Asia, Latin America and Africa on the UN Security Council through reform in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership.

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," Kamboj said.

"Empowering nations from the Global South ensures that all perspectives are heard and respected, that a diversity and democracy of voices is brought to the table leading to more inclusive decision-making, a more inclusive Council to foster broader consensus and legitimacy in its decisions," she added.

Kamboj highlighted New Delhi's example of "bold leadership" leading to change, exemplified by the inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the G20 during Delhi's presidency of the grouping of the world's wealthiest nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion</a>

This, she said, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of political will. "India's proactive stance underscores that where there is determination, there is a path to meaningful reform that will ensure equity," she said.

Kamboj pointed out that expanding only in the non-permanent category of the Council will not solve the problem. "It will in fact not reform one category of the United Nations Security Council at all. And in fact will widen the difference between permanent and non-permanent members even more, thereby perpetuating inequities instead of removing these and further entrenching a dispensation that is no longer relevant to the current geopolitical context," Kamboj added.

India has been leading the years-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying it rightly deserves a place as a permanent member at the UN high table.

India on Friday (Feb 16) questioned for how long the will of five permanent members of the powerful UN Security Council will continue to override the collective voice of the world organisation's 188 member states.

India on Friday (Feb 16) questioned for how long the will of five permanent members of the powerful UN Security Council will continue to override the collective voice of the world organisation's 188 member states. India's Permanent Representative at the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, speaking at the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGNs) on Security Council Reform on Friday, said that "equity" must be the cornerstone of global efforts to reform the 15-nation UN body. Since 2008, the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) take place in the informal plenary of a session of the UN General Assembly to address the question of equitable representation and increase in the membership of the Security Council. By their "informal" nature, the Inter-Governmental Negotiation (IGN) on UN Security Council reform does not have any draft text on the table to negotiate. Also read | How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council "Equity demands that every nation, irrespective of its size or power, be afforded an equal opportunity…to shape global decision-making," Kamboj said, adding that "Our question therefore is how much longer will the will of five members continue to override the collective voice of 188 member states?". Kamboj noted that there are many fundamental issues in the discourse over UNSC reform but “the most fundamental is this question. Can we allow five permanent members, and we've all just agreed that this permanent category is not going to go away, to eternally override the collective voice of 188 member states?" "This must change," she emphasised. Kamboj's comment was a reference to the five permanent members of the Council - China, France, Russia, the UK and the US - whose exclusive veto rights have the power to impact decision-making in the Security Council on matters of maintenance of international peace and security. "How much longer, the will of 5 members will continue to override the collective will of 188 states, this much change", Indian Envoy to UN Ruchira kamboj @IndiaUNNewYork @ruchirakamboj as she pitches for UNSC reforms. pic.twitter.com/OdCBJcs9Al — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 17, 2024 × The Council's other 10 members are elected for two-year terms to the non-permanent category and they do not have veto powers. India has been an eight-term elected member of the UN Security Council. Kamboj also highlighted the need to redress "centuries of injustice". "I think we might all broadly agree that the historical injustices perpetrated against the Global South can no longer be ignored," she said, adding that it is time to rectify these disparities by ensuring greater representation for regions like Asia, Latin America and Africa on the UN Security Council through reform in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership. "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," Kamboj said. "Empowering nations from the Global South ensures that all perspectives are heard and respected, that a diversity and democracy of voices is brought to the table leading to more inclusive decision-making, a more inclusive Council to foster broader consensus and legitimacy in its decisions," she added. Kamboj highlighted New Delhi's example of "bold leadership" leading to change, exemplified by the inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the G20 during Delhi's presidency of the grouping of the world's wealthiest nations. Also read | G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion This, she said, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of political will. "India's proactive stance underscores that where there is determination, there is a path to meaningful reform that will ensure equity," she said. Kamboj pointed out that expanding only in the non-permanent category of the Council will not solve the problem. "It will in fact not reform one category of the United Nations Security Council at all. And in fact will widen the difference between permanent and non-permanent members even more, thereby perpetuating inequities instead of removing these and further entrenching a dispensation that is no longer relevant to the current geopolitical context," Kamboj added. India has been leading the years-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying it rightly deserves a place as a permanent member at the UN high table.

India says UN Security Council's permanent-five members override collective voice of 188 countries

A look at the demands of the Farmers' Protest 2.0. Farmers are demanding an ordinance from the government to provide a legal guarantee over one of their main demands the minimum support price besides a legal guarantee of MSP. The protesters have asked for pensions for farmers and farm laborers. On the day six of farmers' protests in India, the fourth round of talks between the farmers and the government get underway. Ahead of the crucial meeting, the farmers demanded an ordinance from the government to provide a legal guarantee over one of their main demands, the minimum support price. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP. Watch to know more!

India's Farmers' Protest: Union Ministers, Farmers' Union hold fourth round of talks

In the latest development in the global race to develop semiconductors, the Biden administration is in talks to award over $10 billion in subsidies to tech giant Intel. While negotiations are underway, a Bloomberg report states that the package could include both loans and direct grants.

Reports: US Likely to award $10 Bn in subsidies to Intel

A look at the demands of the Farmers' Protest 2.0. Farmers are demanding an ordinance from the government to provide a legal guarantee over one of their main demands the minimum support price besides a legal guarantee of MSP. The protesters have asked for pensions for farmers and farm laborers. On the day six of farmers' protests in India the fourth round of talks between the farmers and the government are underway. Ahead of the crucial meeting, the farmers demanded an ordinance from the government to provide a legal guarantee over one of their main demands, the minimum support price. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Saturday announced that farmers will stage dharnas in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand on February 21 to press their demands including a legal guarantee of MSP. Watch to know more!

India's Farmers' Protest: What farmers are demanding?

The India-China relations are back in focus on account of two major developments, first reports on the meeting between Dr. S Jaishankar and Chinese counterpart Wang and reports of Occupational activity along the Lac. In the latest external affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang met on the sidelines of the Munich security conference. This is the first in-person meeting between the two in about 6 months. Watch to know more!

India's Jaishankar meets China's Wang at Munich Conference | China's moves along LAC raise concerns

Since the time Canada alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist leader diplomatic ties between the two Nations have taken a nose dive. The expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats from India has had an unexpected Fallout. Student visas processed by Canada in the year 2023 dipped by a whopping 42%. As per the immigration refugees and citizenship Canada portal when compared to October to December in the year 2022 the number of Indian student permit applications finalized by Canada in the last quarter of 2023 has dipped massively. Watch to know more!

Canada reduces intake of Indian students | Student visas processed by Canada dropped by 42%

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