Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the Motion of Thanks to the President Droupadi Murmu in Lok Sabha. He launched an attack at Opposition and the INDIA bloc in his last Parliament speech.

PM Modi's Parliament speech: 'India will become third largest economy, this is Modi's guarantee'

PM Modi lists out development work carried out by his government

PM Modi slams Opposition, says 'Nation concerned about family-run parties'

PM Modi lists out work developement carried out by his government, guarantees for third term

PM Modi's last speech in Parliament before polls, says 'Ab ki baar, 400 paar'

India beat England by 106 runs on day 4 (Feb 5) of the second Test in Vizag to equal the five-match series 1-1. Chasing 399, England were bowled out for 292 runs in their second innings after the hosts took five of the nine remaining wickets in the first session only.

India beat England in Vizag

PM Narendra Modi's reply on President's motion of thanks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially reply to President Murmu's speech in the Indian Parliament. In the last parliamentary session ahead of the elections in the country Prime Minister Modi will deliver an address as a part of the motion of thanks.

India's PM to address parliamentarians during vote of thanks

In a major diplomatic event the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the World Government Summit in Dubai as the guest of honor on February 14th. It marks the second time that Narendra Modi has been invited to speak at the prestigious Summit the first being in 2018.

India PM Narendra Modi to address World Government Summit in UAE

India's Uttarakhand cabinet has proofed the Uniform Civil Code draft report. The draft submitted by a five-member UCC panel will now be tabled during a specially convened assembly session on February 6th.

Uttarakhand: Uniform Civil Code bill to be tabled in assembly on February 6th

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<p>A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday (Feb 5) on a three-day outreach trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting, with the former taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) to inform about it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pleased to meet @anuradisanayake , Leader of NPP and JVP of Sri Lanka this morning. A good discussion on our bilateral relationship and the mutual benefits from its further deepening. Also spoke about Sri Lanka’s economic challenges and the path ahead," wrote Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EAM stressed that New Delhi with its neighbourhood first and SAGAR policies will continue to be a "reliable and trusted partner to Sri Lanka".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Dissanayake, senior legislator Vijitha Herath, Secretary Nihal Abeysinghe and executive committee member Prof Anil Jayantha are also in the delegation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankas-marxist-party-jvp-on-india-visit-687046" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Sri Lanka's Marxist party JVP on India visit</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Why is Dissanayake's visit significant?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Dissanayake's visit assumes importance as the JVP leader&nbsp;helms the National People’s Power [NPP] alliance. His popularity soared during the economic crisis of 2022 when he led the people's movement which resulted in&nbsp;former president&nbsp;Gotabaya Rajapaksa relinquishing his powers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recent survey&nbsp;conducted by the Institute for Health Policy, a Colombo-based research institution, shows that&nbsp;Dissanayake is the most preferred candidate to secure the presidential elections, scheduled to be held later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As many as 50 per cent of respondents in the survey said they will cast the ballot for&nbsp;Dissanayake, followed by Sajith Premadasa (33 per cent) and President Ranil Wickremesinghe (nine&nbsp;per cent).&nbsp;Sensing the tide, the NVP leader has already declared his&nbsp;candidacy for the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-rescues-hijacked-sri-lankan-vessel-all-six-crew-members-safe-685213"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe</strong></a></p>

<p>Moreover, Dissanayake taking a pro-India position comes in stark contract to the stance taken by his party in late 1980s. The JVP led an anti-India campaign in 1987-90 against the Indo-Lanka Accord that it deemed an expression of “Indian expansionism”.</p>

<p>Dissanayake acknowledges the shift in party's stance and states that any decision that the island nation makes should be done so in keeping view of the impact it has on India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We do know that India, who is our closest neighbour, has become a major political and economic centre. So, when we take economic and political decisions, we will always care about how it will impact India," Dissanayake was quoted as saying by Indian newspaper&nbsp;<em>The Hindu&nbsp;</em>last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Sri Lanka was staring at an economic collapse and the negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) seemed aimless, it was India that stepped in and provided assistance worth $3.8 billion. If&nbsp;Dissanayake does come to power, it could help New Delhi have a trusted ally in the south - a proposition that may irk China.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday (Feb 5) on a three-day outreach trip.

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday (Feb 5) on a three-day outreach trip. Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting, with the former taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) to inform about it. "Pleased to meet @anuradisanayake , Leader of NPP and JVP of Sri Lanka this morning. A good discussion on our bilateral relationship and the mutual benefits from its further deepening. Also spoke about Sri Lanka’s economic challenges and the path ahead," wrote Jaishankar. The EAM stressed that New Delhi with its neighbourhood first and SAGAR policies will continue to be a "reliable and trusted partner to Sri Lanka". Apart from Dissanayake, senior legislator Vijitha Herath, Secretary Nihal Abeysinghe and executive committee member Prof Anil Jayantha are also in the delegation. Watch | Sri Lanka's Marxist party JVP on India visit × Why is Dissanayake's visit significant? Dissanayake's visit assumes importance as the JVP leader helms the National People’s Power [NPP] alliance. His popularity soared during the economic crisis of 2022 when he led the people's movement which resulted in former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa relinquishing his powers. Recent survey conducted by the Institute for Health Policy, a Colombo-based research institution, shows that Dissanayake is the most preferred candidate to secure the presidential elections, scheduled to be held later this year. As many as 50 per cent of respondents in the survey said they will cast the ballot for Dissanayake, followed by Sajith Premadasa (33 per cent) and President Ranil Wickremesinghe (nine per cent). Sensing the tide, the NVP leader has already declared his candidacy for the election. Also read | Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe Moreover, Dissanayake taking a pro-India position comes in stark contract to the stance taken by his party in late 1980s. The JVP led an anti-India campaign in 1987-90 against the Indo-Lanka Accord that it deemed an expression of “Indian expansionism”. Dissanayake acknowledges the shift in party's stance and states that any decision that the island nation makes should be done so in keeping view of the impact it has on India. “We do know that India, who is our closest neighbour, has become a major political and economic centre. So, when we take economic and political decisions, we will always care about how it will impact India," Dissanayake was quoted as saying by Indian newspaper The Hindu last year. When Sri Lanka was staring at an economic collapse and the negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) seemed aimless, it was India that stepped in and provided assistance worth $3.8 billion. If Dissanayake does come to power, it could help New Delhi have a trusted ally in the south - a proposition that may irk China. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka's JVP delegation visits India. Why is it significant?

<p>Gulmarg, the picturesque tourist haven nestled in India's Kashmir, has transformed into a snowy wonderland, showed stunning drone footage capturing the region blanketed in several feet of snow over the weekend. The mercury has plunged to several degrees below freezing for the past 72 hours, culminating in a bone-chilling minus 7.0 degrees Celsius recorded on Sunday (Feb 4).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-valley-receives-fresh-snowfall-breaks-over-two-month-long-dry-spell-684834">Kashmir Valley receives snowfall, breaking over two months of dry spell</a></strong></p>

<p>The heavy snowfall, however, has disrupted normal life with cancellation of all flights from Srinagar airport for Feb 4. Simultaneously, the traffic movement is reportedly sluggish due to slippery roads. Authorities have consequently initiated snow-clearance operations to facilitate safe travel.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the drone footage show?</strong></h2>

<p>Winter's icy grip has draped Kashmir's&nbsp;landscape in a pristine layer of snow, covering trees and pathways, creating a serene and captivating spectacle. Gulmarg, located just over 50 km west of Srinagar, has become a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, particularly skiing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tourists from around the globe are drawn to its slopes, seeking adventure and the thrill of gliding through the freshly fallen snow.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Amid snowfall J&amp;K's Gulmarg becomes a magnet for tourists</strong></p>

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<p>One enthusiastic visitor was quoted as saying by news agency ANI, "We have loads and loads of snow. We're just enjoying it, it's amazing, and we are expecting some more snow. So come to Gulmarg and enjoy skiing. It's an amazing sport for physical fitness—for the legs, core, and everything else."</p>

<p>"It's a wonderful sport. I encourage all of you to come and ski," said the tourist, expressing the sheer delight experienced amidst nature's wintry embrace.</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> | J&amp;K's Gulmarg covered in a thick blanket of snow as snowfall continues in the region.<br />
<br />
(Drone visuals from Gulmarg) <a href="https://t.co/gQzB9WT8Pe">pic.twitter.com/gQzB9WT8Pe</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1754140233355214873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>While the plains of Kashmir experienced moderate snowfall, the higher reaches witnessed substantial accumulations of snow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities have issued avalanche warnings for hilly and mountainous areas, urging residents and tourists to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movements for the next 24 hours.</p>

<p>Despite the conclusion of '<em>Chilla-i-Kalan</em>' — the 40-day harshest winter period — earlier in the week, the cold wave persists in Kashmir, transforming the region into a magical winter wonderland.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gulmarg, the picturesque tourist haven nestled in India's Kashmir, has transformed into a snowy wonderland, showed stunning drone footage capturing the region blanketed in several feet of snow over the weekend.

Gulmarg, the picturesque tourist haven nestled in India's Kashmir, has transformed into a snowy wonderland, showed stunning drone footage capturing the region blanketed in several feet of snow over the weekend. The mercury has plunged to several degrees below freezing for the past 72 hours, culminating in a bone-chilling minus 7.0 degrees Celsius recorded on Sunday (Feb 4). Also read | Kashmir Valley receives snowfall, breaking over two months of dry spell The heavy snowfall, however, has disrupted normal life with cancellation of all flights from Srinagar airport for Feb 4. Simultaneously, the traffic movement is reportedly sluggish due to slippery roads. Authorities have consequently initiated snow-clearance operations to facilitate safe travel. What does the drone footage show? Winter's icy grip has draped Kashmir's landscape in a pristine layer of snow, covering trees and pathways, creating a serene and captivating spectacle. Gulmarg, located just over 50 km west of Srinagar, has become a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, particularly skiing. Tourists from around the globe are drawn to its slopes, seeking adventure and the thrill of gliding through the freshly fallen snow. Also watch | India: Amid snowfall J&K's Gulmarg becomes a magnet for tourists × One enthusiastic visitor was quoted as saying by news agency ANI, "We have loads and loads of snow. We're just enjoying it, it's amazing, and we are expecting some more snow. So come to Gulmarg and enjoy skiing. It's an amazing sport for physical fitness—for the legs, core, and everything else." "It's a wonderful sport. I encourage all of you to come and ski," said the tourist, expressing the sheer delight experienced amidst nature's wintry embrace. #WATCH | J&K's Gulmarg covered in a thick blanket of snow as snowfall continues in the region. (Drone visuals from Gulmarg) pic.twitter.com/gQzB9WT8Pe — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2024 × While the plains of Kashmir experienced moderate snowfall, the higher reaches witnessed substantial accumulations of snow. Authorities have issued avalanche warnings for hilly and mountainous areas, urging residents and tourists to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movements for the next 24 hours. Despite the conclusion of 'Chilla-i-Kalan' — the 40-day harshest winter period — earlier in the week, the cold wave persists in Kashmir, transforming the region into a magical winter wonderland. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Kashmir's Gulmarg flaunts its status as India's winter wonderland in drone footage

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday on a three-day outreach trip. The Indian government had invited a delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front), to New Delhi, in a significant outreach to the island nation’s most popular politician at the moment. Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka's Marxist party on India visit

Sri Lanka's JVP delegation visits India | India-Sri Lanka Relations

Amid the beautiful snowfall in North India's Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir in India, normal life has been heavily impacted. The latest weather changes have been induced by a fresh western disturbance that hit northwest India. Watch to know more!

India Weather Report: Snowfall disrupts normal life in Himalayan hill states

<p>In two years, the Indian Army could get their hands on indigenously-designed and developed 155mm Smart Artillery shells that offer 50 times more accuracy than existing ones. IIT-Madras and the Government-run Munitions India Limited (MIL) have partnered on developing this ammunition, which will be guided by the Indian constellation of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) satellites, formerly known as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to IIT Madras, Prof G. Rajesh, Faculty, Department of Aerospace Engineering, and his team of researchers will be developing the smart ammunition, which will later be manufactured by Munitions India Limited, a Government-run firm engaged in the Production, Testing Research and Development and Marketing of a comprehensive range of ammunition and explosives for the Army, Navy, Air force and Paramilitary Forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team's objective is to increase the accuracy of 155 mm shell within a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 10 metres. At present, ammunitions developed in India have a CEP of 500 m. Another key goal is to increase the lethality at the terminal impact point.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-public-examinations-prevention-of-unfair-means-bill-2024-introduced-in-lower-house-of-parliament-687088">Also read |&nbsp;India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament</a></p>

<p>"We are confident that the might of MIL in conventional ammunition manufacturing and the brain of IIT Madras in developing a guidance system will pave the way for MIL’s foray into modern ammunition manufacturing with Niche Technologies," said Ravi Kant, IOFS, Chairman and Managing Director, Munitions India Limited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Based on the specifications of this proposed artillery shell, it can be fired from 155mm artillery guns, without any changes in the gun system. Unlike conventional shells, it will have its control surfaces that will help in manoeuvrability-fin-stabilised, canard-controlled, guided shell. It is expected to have a minimum range of 8kms and a maximum range of 38km. This Smart shell also offers three modes of detonation, such as - point detonation, height of burst, delayed detonation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM invited to speak at World Government Summit for second time</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-invited-to-speak-at-world-government-summit-for-second-time-687095/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Speaking about this project, Prof&nbsp;G. Rajesh, Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras, said, “The Special Purpose Shell will house the guidance, navigation and control system along with roll isolation strategies, canard actuation system, fuze, shell body and warhead. The smart projectile will have complex technologies such as miniaturised electronics/sensors and mechanical structures."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In two years, the Indian Army could get their hands on indigenously-designed and developed 155mm Smart Artillery shells that offer 50 times more accuracy than existing ones.

In two years, the Indian Army could get their hands on indigenously-designed and developed 155mm Smart Artillery shells that offer 50 times more accuracy than existing ones. IIT-Madras and the Government-run Munitions India Limited (MIL) have partnered on developing this ammunition, which will be guided by the Indian constellation of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) satellites, formerly known as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). According to IIT Madras, Prof G. Rajesh, Faculty, Department of Aerospace Engineering, and his team of researchers will be developing the smart ammunition, which will later be manufactured by Munitions India Limited, a Government-run firm engaged in the Production, Testing Research and Development and Marketing of a comprehensive range of ammunition and explosives for the Army, Navy, Air force and Paramilitary Forces. The team's objective is to increase the accuracy of 155 mm shell within a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 10 metres. At present, ammunitions developed in India have a CEP of 500 m. Another key goal is to increase the lethality at the terminal impact point. Also read | India: Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced in lower house of Parliament "We are confident that the might of MIL in conventional ammunition manufacturing and the brain of IIT Madras in developing a guidance system will pave the way for MIL’s foray into modern ammunition manufacturing with Niche Technologies," said Ravi Kant, IOFS, Chairman and Managing Director, Munitions India Limited. Based on the specifications of this proposed artillery shell, it can be fired from 155mm artillery guns, without any changes in the gun system. Unlike conventional shells, it will have its control surfaces that will help in manoeuvrability-fin-stabilised, canard-controlled, guided shell. It is expected to have a minimum range of 8kms and a maximum range of 38km. This Smart shell also offers three modes of detonation, such as - point detonation, height of burst, delayed detonation. Also watch | Indian PM invited to speak at World Government Summit for second time Speaking about this project, Prof G. Rajesh, Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras, said, “The Special Purpose Shell will house the guidance, navigation and control system along with roll isolation strategies, canard actuation system, fuze, shell body and warhead. The smart projectile will have complex technologies such as miniaturised electronics/sensors and mechanical structures."

IIT-M and Munitions India to develop smart ammo for 155mm artillery guns

The Mancurad mango, which is the most popular mango in the Indian state of Goa, is being sold at a whopping price of $84 (Rs 7,000) a dozen in the capital city of Panaji. According to a report by The Times of India (TOI) early Monday (Feb 5), the spike in price has been attributed to the unusual timing of the fruit's entry into markets. In India, the mango season is typically in the summer.

Mangoflation in India`s Goa: Mancurad mangoes being sold for whopping $84 a dozen

<p>In the latest development on Middle East crisis,&nbsp;John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US&nbsp;strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5).</p>

<p>In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/04/409987-us-and-uk-air-strikes-on-houthi-positions.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410034-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-grammy-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-updating-live-686970">Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live)</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410030-horizons-5.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for&nbsp;<em>The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410048-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-startups-raised-732-million-across-107-deals-in-january-2024-687032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.

In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5). In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow. The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action. Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state. Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live) Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times. Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years. Watch | Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024

Morning news brief: US mulls more strikes on Iran-backed groups; Grammy Awards 2024, and more

WION's exclusive interview with Dr. V Anantha Nageswaran, the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India. What are the risks to the robust growth outlook for India, which the government says will be a developed economy by 2047? Watch to learn more about the thought process behind the government's focus on women, farmers, the poor, and the youth. Watch the candid conversation with the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India, who breaks down India's fiscal discipline plan and calls the path "realistic", not "ambitious".

Chief Economic Advisor on India's interim budget

<p>In a move aimed at bolstering bilateral ties and advancing key areas of cooperation, Guyana's Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips is set to embark on a significant diplomatic visit to India this week. The visit, with a primary focus on energy, cybersecurity, and disaster management, signifies a commitment to fostering deeper ties.</p>

<p>The bilateral engagement between India and Guyana has been on an upward trajectory, with significant visits from Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and other high-ranking officials in the past year.</p>

<p>Following discussions during President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo's visit to India in January and February 2023, both nations have taken concrete steps by constituting eight Joint Working Groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These groups span diverse areas such as agriculture, health, infrastructure development, energy, Ayurveda, technology innovation, defense, and human resources &amp; capacity building. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen cooperation and capitalise on each country's strengths for mutual benefit.</p>

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<p>One of the key highlights of the burgeoning partnership is Guyana's interest in acquiring defense capabilities from India. This move is driven by Guyana's need to protect its maritime boundaries, and exclusive economic zones, and safeguard its rapidly growing oil and gas industry from potential threats, including illegal fishing activities.</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visit to Guyana last year, where he held a Joint Commission meeting with Guyanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Hilton Todd, further solidified the diplomatic ties between the two nations.</p>

<p>The discussions during the meeting underscored shared perspectives on global challenges and opportunities for collaborative solutions.</p>

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<p>Brigadier Mark Anthony Phillips, who assumed office as Guyana's Executive Prime Minister in August 2020, brings a wealth of experience to the table. His background as the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force adds a strategic dimension to the discussions, particularly in the context of defence cooperation.</p>

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<p>Last week, Guyana's Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira commended India's pivotal role in the global community during the celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day at the Indian High Commission in Georgetown. Minister Teixeira specifically praised India's unwavering commitment to democratic governance, pluralism, and the rule of law, recognising these as integral strengths that underpin its status as the world's largest democracy, fostering stability and resilience.</p>


In a move aimed at bolstering bilateral ties and advancing key areas of cooperation, Guyana's Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips is set to embark on a significant diplomatic visit to India this week.

In a move aimed at bolstering bilateral ties and advancing key areas of cooperation, Guyana's Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips is set to embark on a significant diplomatic visit to India this week. The visit, with a primary focus on energy, cybersecurity, and disaster management, signifies a commitment to fostering deeper ties. The bilateral engagement between India and Guyana has been on an upward trajectory, with significant visits from Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and other high-ranking officials in the past year. Following discussions during President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo's visit to India in January and February 2023, both nations have taken concrete steps by constituting eight Joint Working Groups. These groups span diverse areas such as agriculture, health, infrastructure development, energy, Ayurveda, technology innovation, defense, and human resources & capacity building. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen cooperation and capitalise on each country's strengths for mutual benefit. Also Read | Who is Abhay Thakur, India's new ambassador to Russia One of the key highlights of the burgeoning partnership is Guyana's interest in acquiring defense capabilities from India. This move is driven by Guyana's need to protect its maritime boundaries, and exclusive economic zones, and safeguard its rapidly growing oil and gas industry from potential threats, including illegal fishing activities. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visit to Guyana last year, where he held a Joint Commission meeting with Guyanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Hilton Todd, further solidified the diplomatic ties between the two nations. The discussions during the meeting underscored shared perspectives on global challenges and opportunities for collaborative solutions. Also Read | Australia PM Albanese says government probing claims UN agency aided Hamas Brigadier Mark Anthony Phillips, who assumed office as Guyana's Executive Prime Minister in August 2020, brings a wealth of experience to the table. His background as the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force adds a strategic dimension to the discussions, particularly in the context of defence cooperation. Watch | The rise of Japan's 'Silver Porn' market | WION Untangled × Last week, Guyana's Governance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira commended India's pivotal role in the global community during the celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day at the Indian High Commission in Georgetown. Minister Teixeira specifically praised India's unwavering commitment to democratic governance, pluralism, and the rule of law, recognising these as integral strengths that underpin its status as the world's largest democracy, fostering stability and resilience.

Guyana Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips to visit India this week

In the latest episode of WION's "Billion Dollar Idea" show, the spotlight is on Shrinivas G. Shirgurkar, the driving force behind India's largest manufacturer of machine tools - Ace Micromatic Group. Ace Micromatic is a pioneer in the manufacturing sector, revolutionising industries with state-of-the-art technology and is recognised for its expertise in precision machine tools and automation solutions. Join Jasper Reid as he delves into Shrinivas G. Shirgurkar's leadership journey at Ace Micromatic Group. Shirgurkar, Benedict Machado and their mentor, Ashok Sathe, built the specialist firm. Together, they transformed an idea into a multi-million-dollar company. For a closer look at Shirgurkar's journey and to discover what he envisions as his lasting impact, don't miss the "Billion Dollar Idea" show. Watch the unfolding narrative of leadership, innovation, and success in manufacturing solutions.

Billion Dollar Idea episode 13 - Ace Micromatic Group

In a major development, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) has arrested an employee posted at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, Russia, accused of being an agent of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Employee at Indian Embassy in Moscow arrested from Meerut for spying for Pakistan’s ISI

After a prolonged dry spell Kashmir received season’s first snowfall gracefully blanketing the city in a shimmering white coat. Air traffic has been temporarily suspended in Kashmir. Watch to know more!

Kashmir: Temperatures drop below freezing point, authorities issue avalanche warnings

<p>The Maldivian government has formally requested New Delhi to provide details regarding an incident where Indian Coast Guard personnel allegedly got on three of the Maldivian fishing vessels operating within its economic zone without speaking with the relevant authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The issue was raised by the Maldives defence ministry in a Friday (Feb 2) statement that said, “On Feb. 1, 2024, the foreign ministry of the Maldives has asked (India) officially for the details of the operation that was carried out while Maldivians were fishing in the Maldivian exclusive economic zone, without any coordination with the relevant authorities and against all international laws."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Consequently, the Maldivian government has initiated an official request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, seeking comprehensive details of the incident from the Indian government,” the statement further read, according to media reports.</p>

<p>The incident reportedly involved teams from the Indian Coast Guard Ship 246 and Indian Coast Guard Ship 253.</p>

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<p>The Indian government is yet to respond to the claims made by the&nbsp;Maldivian government.</p>

<p>The recent development adds to the existing diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Last&nbsp;month, ministers from President Mohamed Muizzu's government had&nbsp;passed&nbsp;racist remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the heightened tensions, leaders of both the nations meet at the second core group meeting&nbsp;in Delhi over troop Withdrawal on Feb 2. &nbsp;</p>

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<p>Following the meeting, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that both sides agreed on "a set of mutually workable solutions to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medvac services to the people of Maldives."</p>

<section>
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<p>While the Maldivian foreign ministry said, "Both sides agreed that the Government of India will replace the military personnel in one of the three aviation platform by 10 March 2024, and will complete replacing military personnel in the other two platforms by 10 May 2024."</p>
</section>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Maldivian government has formally requested New Delhi to provide details regarding an incident where Indian Coast Guard personnel allegedly got on three of the Maldivian fishing vessels operating within its economic zone without speaking with the relevant authorities.

The Maldivian government has formally requested New Delhi to provide details regarding an incident where Indian Coast Guard personnel allegedly got on three of the Maldivian fishing vessels operating within its economic zone without speaking with the relevant authorities. The issue was raised by the Maldives defence ministry in a Friday (Feb 2) statement that said, “On Feb. 1, 2024, the foreign ministry of the Maldives has asked (India) officially for the details of the operation that was carried out while Maldivians were fishing in the Maldivian exclusive economic zone, without any coordination with the relevant authorities and against all international laws." “Consequently, the Maldivian government has initiated an official request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, seeking comprehensive details of the incident from the Indian government,” the statement further read, according to media reports. The incident reportedly involved teams from the Indian Coast Guard Ship 246 and Indian Coast Guard Ship 253. Also Read | Chinese troops to replace Indian military in Maldives? What phased replacement could mean The Indian government is yet to respond to the claims made by the Maldivian government. The recent development adds to the existing diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Last month, ministers from President Mohamed Muizzu's government had passed racist remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Amid the heightened tensions, leaders of both the nations meet at the second core group meeting in Delhi over troop Withdrawal on Feb 2. Also Read | Red Sea: Indian Navy bolsters presence with deployments off Djibouti, Gulf of Aden, and East Coast of Somalia Following the meeting, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that both sides agreed on "a set of mutually workable solutions to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medvac services to the people of Maldives." Watch | The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy × While the Maldivian foreign ministry said, "Both sides agreed that the Government of India will replace the military personnel in one of the three aviation platform by 10 March 2024, and will complete replacing military personnel in the other two platforms by 10 May 2024." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard got on 3 fishing boats in Maldives' economic zone, alleges Male

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