Winter signals in Jammu and Kashmir in India with high temperatures hitting shivering lows. Jammu and Kashmir's capital, Srinagar, recorded its coldest night of the season with Gulmarg and Pagalgam recording the lowest temperatures.

Kashmir tourism: Kashmir's record-breaking tourist arrivals in the year 2024 | India News | WION

Ajay Bisaria, the former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, has underscored the gravity of the February 2019 developments when it comes to India-Pakistan ties, stating, "There was a distinct probability that India would escalate the situation if Pakistan had not returned the captured Indian pilot or if he had come to harm. That was certainly a point which was clearly made by India."

Following the Pulwama terror attack in 2019, India conducted surgical strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps near Balakot, leading to a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani air forces and the subsequent capture and later release of Indian IAF Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Bisaria further offered insights into the suggested path for Pakistan's interests, stating, "Pakistan's best bet for its own interest is to try to normalize the country." He has revealed several details of his tenure in Pakistan and ties between the two&nbsp;countries in his book "Anger Management". His book also gives account of Imran Khan's tenure and&nbsp;his view on India ties.&nbsp;

Here's the full interview:

Sidhant Sibal: Your tenure in Pakistan, India removing special status for J&amp;K, if you can talk about that..

Ajay Bisaria: Well, I think that was perhaps the most interesting part of my tenure, that is my exit from Pakistan because it came somewhat abruptly. I had done just about 20 months at that point in Pakistan, and with India's decisions on Article 370 and the decisions by our parliament, I was asked to leave, so I had a 72 hour notice period, and on the fifth of August I was called in by the Pakistani foreign secretary for a demarche about what India had done, and expressing a great deal of concern. And of course, my response was that this was internal to India, Pakistan had no local standi in this situation. But after a point of time, Pakistan seemed to be running out of options on what it could do to express its anger about what India had done. And therefore, the position it took&nbsp;was to ask the Indian High Commissioner to leave and I therefore left Pakistan somewhat abruptly in three days.

Sidhant Sibal: Pulwama in February 2019, how close India, Pakistan were&nbsp;at war or something that was very dangerous for the region.&nbsp;

Ajay Bisaria:&nbsp;I wouldn't say war, but we will certainly be at a stage where the crisis could have escalated beyond what it went. Fortunately it de-escalated and we did not have any ugly situation at that point of time, but there was a distinct probability that India would escalate the situation if Pakistan had not returned the captured Indian pilot or if he had come to harm. That was certainly a point which was clearly made by India.

Sidhant Sibal: So since 2014, India has had a consistent policy towards Pakistan, one that links cross border terrorism. Do you think that this policy is the policy that should be or there should be some opening when it comes to talks as well?

Ajay Bisaria:&nbsp;I think India is always open for peace and for talks and so was the case even after 2014. Because you need to remember that 2014 and 15, Prime Minister Modi met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif five times, the first time being even at the inauguration, the swearing in of Prime Minister Modi when Nawaz Sharif came and multiple meetings in the middle until Prime Minister Modi himself went to Pakistan in the end of 2015. So the deal breaker, which prevented this diplomacy from flowering, we had agreed at that point to have resumed dialogue, we were calling it a comprehensive dialogue, was terrorism. And I think that is the lesson that at least Pakistan must draw is that we come close to agreement to take forward matters, to do constructive diplomacy. India's leaders always take that initiative. But terrorism is a deal breaker. And you know it was exactly what happened. That 2016 was a terrible year in terms of terrorism, and that's why this relationship got frozen.

Sidhant Sibal: I can ask you to crystal-gaze when it &nbsp;comes to the India- Pakistan relationship. Do you think that there will be a time when there will be a normalization of the relationship?

Ajay Bisaria:&nbsp;I think I would look at it with cautious optimism. And if I was advising the Government of Pakistan or the Government of India, right now, I'm advising neither. I would say that Pakistan's best bet for its own interest is to try to normalize the country. And what would normalize mean , normalized would mean to reduce the hold of its army in the economy, to normalize the economy with economic reform, because that is the biggest danger to Pakistan, that it might just crumble as a state. It should normalize in the sense of not using terrorism as a weapon of state policy because this is what has made Pakistan's international reputation terrible and has many economic implications for it. So I think India will be happy to engage with a normalizing Pakistan and on India's side, India needs the strategic patience and the calibration to be able to deal with Pakistan's terrorism with force, but also have the flexibility to engage and understand Pakistan, particularly when it becomes hopefully more coherent as a policy unit, after the Pakistan elections.

Sidhant Sibal: So my final question to you is any anecdote you would like to share with our viewers, something that is a story that touched you and moved you in Pakistan?&nbsp;

Ajay Bisaria:&nbsp;Well, there are multiple stories and many of them find mentioned in my book, and these are not just my stories, but those of many of my predecessors and I think what is very heartwarming in Pakistan is that despite the hostility, it can melt away in the evening over music and over, so I hosted at my residence in Pakistan several times, several evenings of music. And when our people, cultural artists from India didn't get permission, I would invite some singers from Lahore who were as good and as familiar with the same music as the songs of Lata Mangeshkar or Kishore Kumar and they would sing them. So I think that's what gives us hope in this relationship, that there is a lot of latent goodwill, also in the relationship apart from the ill.

Ajay Bisaria, the former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, has underscored the gravity of the February 2019 developments when it comes to India-Pakistan ties, stating, "There was a distinct probability that India would escalate the situation if Pakistan had not returned the captured Indian pilot or if he had come to harm.

Ajay Bisaria, the former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, has underscored the gravity of the February 2019 developments when it comes to India-Pakistan ties, stating, "There was a distinct probability that India would escalate the situation if Pakistan had not returned the captured Indian pilot or if he had come to harm. That was certainly a point which was clearly made by India." Following the Pulwama terror attack in 2019, India conducted surgical strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps near Balakot, leading to a dogfight between Indian and Pakistani air forces and the subsequent capture and later release of Indian IAF Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Bisaria further offered insights into the suggested path for Pakistan's interests, stating, "Pakistan's best bet for its own interest is to try to normalize the country." He has revealed several details of his tenure in Pakistan and ties between the two countries in his book "Anger Management". His book also gives account of Imran Khan's tenure and his view on India ties. Here's the full interview: Sidhant Sibal: Your tenure in Pakistan, India removing special status for J&K, if you can talk about that.. Ajay Bisaria: Well, I think that was perhaps the most interesting part of my tenure, that is my exit from Pakistan because it came somewhat abruptly. I had done just about 20 months at that point in Pakistan, and with India's decisions on Article 370 and the decisions by our parliament, I was asked to leave, so I had a 72 hour notice period, and on the fifth of August I was called in by the Pakistani foreign secretary for a demarche about what India had done, and expressing a great deal of concern. And of course, my response was that this was internal to India, Pakistan had no local standi in this situation. But after a point of time, Pakistan seemed to be running out of options on what it could do to express its anger about what India had done. And therefore, the position it took was to ask the Indian High Commissioner to leave and I therefore left Pakistan somewhat abruptly in three days. Sidhant Sibal: Pulwama in February 2019, how close India, Pakistan were at war or something that was very dangerous for the region. Ajay Bisaria: I wouldn't say war, but we will certainly be at a stage where the crisis could have escalated beyond what it went. Fortunately it de-escalated and we did not have any ugly situation at that point of time, but there was a distinct probability that India would escalate the situation if Pakistan had not returned the captured Indian pilot or if he had come to harm. That was certainly a point which was clearly made by India. Sidhant Sibal: So since 2014, India has had a consistent policy towards Pakistan, one that links cross border terrorism. Do you think that this policy is the policy that should be or there should be some opening when it comes to talks as well? Ajay Bisaria: I think India is always open for peace and for talks and so was the case even after 2014. Because you need to remember that 2014 and 15, Prime Minister Modi met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif five times, the first time being even at the inauguration, the swearing in of Prime Minister Modi when Nawaz Sharif came and multiple meetings in the middle until Prime Minister Modi himself went to Pakistan in the end of 2015. So the deal breaker, which prevented this diplomacy from flowering, we had agreed at that point to have resumed dialogue, we were calling it a comprehensive dialogue, was terrorism. And I think that is the lesson that at least Pakistan must draw is that we come close to agreement to take forward matters, to do constructive diplomacy. India's leaders always take that initiative. But terrorism is a deal breaker. And you know it was exactly what happened. That 2016 was a terrible year in terms of terrorism, and that's why this relationship got frozen. Sidhant Sibal: I can ask you to crystal-gaze when it comes to the India- Pakistan relationship. Do you think that there will be a time when there will be a normalization of the relationship? Ajay Bisaria: I think I would look at it with cautious optimism. And if I was advising the Government of Pakistan or the Government of India, right now, I'm advising neither. I would say that Pakistan's best bet for its own interest is to try to normalize the country. And what would normalize mean , normalized would mean to reduce the hold of its army in the economy, to normalize the economy with economic reform, because that is the biggest danger to Pakistan, that it might just crumble as a state. It should normalize in the sense of not using terrorism as a weapon of state policy because this is what has made Pakistan's international reputation terrible and has many economic implications for it. So I think India will be happy to engage with a normalizing Pakistan and on India's side, India needs the strategic patience and the calibration to be able to deal with Pakistan's terrorism with force, but also have the flexibility to engage and understand Pakistan, particularly when it becomes hopefully more coherent as a policy unit, after the Pakistan elections. Sidhant Sibal: So my final question to you is any anecdote you would like to share with our viewers, something that is a story that touched you and moved you in Pakistan? Ajay Bisaria: Well, there are multiple stories and many of them find mentioned in my book, and these are not just my stories, but those of many of my predecessors and I think what is very heartwarming in Pakistan is that despite the hostility, it can melt away in the evening over music and over, so I hosted at my residence in Pakistan several times, several evenings of music. And when our people, cultural artists from India didn't get permission, I would invite some singers from Lahore who were as good and as familiar with the same music as the songs of Lata Mangeshkar or Kishore Kumar and they would sing them. So I think that's what gives us hope in this relationship, that there is a lot of latent goodwill, also in the relationship apart from the ill.

'India would have escalated situation if Abhinandan wasn't released': Ex-Indian envoy to Pak tells WION

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection.&nbsp;

The aviation watchdog said that the authorities have inspected 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of domestic carriers. It said that the problem was solved immediately when they found a washer missing in one aircraft.&nbsp;

Notably in India, Boeing 737 MAX planes are used by Akasa Air (22), SpiceJet (9) and Air India Express (9).&nbsp;

The aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, recommended aviation authorities worldwide to carry out a one-time inspection as a precautionary measure of all Boeing 737 MAX airplanes which are present in the fleet before January 10.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-united-airlines-probe-find-loose-bolts-on-boeing-737-max-9-jets-alaska-airline-flight-incident-678121">Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout</a>&nbsp;

The recommendation came after reports of a missing nut and washer in the Aft Rudder Quadrant on the Boeing 737 MAX plane.&nbsp;

As quoted by PTI, a senior DGCA official on Tuesday said out of the 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of the three Indian carriers, inspections on 39 aircraft have been completed with nil findings. The official added that a missing washer was found in one aircraft.&nbsp;

"Rectification action as per recommendations of Boeing has been taken prior to the release of this aircraft. Inspection on the remaining one aircraft will be completed prior to release for service," the official said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;United Airlines probe find loose bolts on Boeing 737 max 9 jets&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flight-attendant-collapses-to-death-in-front-of-passengers-moments-before-take-off-677276">Flight attendant collapses to death in front of passengers moments before takeoff</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Alaska Airlines incident</h2>

As per a report by the news agency PTI, this inspection was recommended before the Alaska Airlines incident and is not related to it.&nbsp;

Last week, a cabin panel of a Boeing 737 MAX 9 of Alaska Airlines blew off mid-air. All the passengers were landed safely.&nbsp;

The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said late on Monday that it could not yet tell whether the recovered cabin panel had been properly attached.&nbsp;

The comments came after Alaska Airlines and the other US 737 MAX 9 operator, United Airlines, said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft.

The announcement raises new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured.&nbsp;

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded 171 MAX 9 planes on Saturday (Jan 6) after a panel called a door plug blew off the Alaska Airlines flight not long after taking off from a Portland, Oregon, airport on Friday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection.

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection. The aviation watchdog said that the authorities have inspected 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of domestic carriers. It said that the problem was solved immediately when they found a washer missing in one aircraft. Notably in India, Boeing 737 MAX planes are used by Akasa Air (22), SpiceJet (9) and Air India Express (9). The aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, recommended aviation authorities worldwide to carry out a one-time inspection as a precautionary measure of all Boeing 737 MAX airplanes which are present in the fleet before January 10. Also read: Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout The recommendation came after reports of a missing nut and washer in the Aft Rudder Quadrant on the Boeing 737 MAX plane. As quoted by PTI, a senior DGCA official on Tuesday said out of the 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of the three Indian carriers, inspections on 39 aircraft have been completed with nil findings. The official added that a missing washer was found in one aircraft. "Rectification action as per recommendations of Boeing has been taken prior to the release of this aircraft. Inspection on the remaining one aircraft will be completed prior to release for service," the official said. Watch: United Airlines probe find loose bolts on Boeing 737 max 9 jets × Also read: Flight attendant collapses to death in front of passengers moments before takeoff Alaska Airlines incident As per a report by the news agency PTI, this inspection was recommended before the Alaska Airlines incident and is not related to it. Last week, a cabin panel of a Boeing 737 MAX 9 of Alaska Airlines blew off mid-air. All the passengers were landed safely. The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said late on Monday that it could not yet tell whether the recovered cabin panel had been properly attached. The comments came after Alaska Airlines and the other US 737 MAX 9 operator, United Airlines, said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft. The announcement raises new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded 171 MAX 9 planes on Saturday (Jan 6) after a panel called a door plug blew off the Alaska Airlines flight not long after taking off from a Portland, Oregon, airport on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian aviation watchdog says one Boeing 737 Max aircraft found with loose bolt

The social media is filled with 'Boycott Maldives' hashtag. Following derogatory comments by Maldivian officials about Indian PM Narendra Modi. It is now time for Maldives parliament to intervene, says Maldives MP Mickail Naseem in a conversation with WION . The 3 ministers were soon suspended after their remarks drew criticism from India and abroad.

India-Maldives comment row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments | World News | WION

'Boycott Maldives' is gaining momentum in India. From businessmen to Bollywood celebs, all are taking part in 'Boycott Maldives' calls. While urging people to choose Indian destinations over foreign ones for vacations. Keep watching for more updates.

India-Maldives row: Amid row with India, Maldives urges China to send tourists

Maldives MP Mickail Naseem has proposed Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer & suspended ministers Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, Mahzoom Masjid to be summoned by the Maldives Parliament. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations." Watch to know more!

Maldives-India Row: Maldives MP urges parliament summoning for foreign & suspended ministers

India: New milestone for Kashmir's winter wonderland, over 1 million visitors visit Gulmarg

Following the first Global Investors Meet (GIM 2024) hosted by the DMK government at Chennai Trade Center on January 8, Tamil Nadu attracted an impressive investment commitment totaling over ₹6.64 lakh crore through 631 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) that would generate nearly 27 lakh jobs across sectors.

Global Investors Meet: Tamil Nadu bags deals worth $838

The Maldives had proposed a visit by President Mohamed Muizzu to India later this month. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November of last year, has so far visited Turkey, the UAE, and China, since coming to power, marking a departure from the tradition of making India the first foreign destination for a newly-elected Maldivian president. The India visit was proposed before the current diplomatic crisis erupted over derogatory remarks by the ministers of the Muizzu government. To know more watch this interview with Former Indian Diplomat, Bhaswati Mukherjee.

Maldives proposes visit by President Muizzu's to India

The Maldives had proposed a visit by President Mohamed Muizzu to India later this month. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November of last year, has so far visited Turkey, the UAE, and China, since coming to power, marking a departure from the tradition of making India the first foreign destination for a newly-elected Maldivian president. The India visit was proposed before the current diplomatic crisis erupted over derogatory remarks by the ministers of the Muizzu government.

Maldives faces heat over Anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India

Maldives-India Row: Maldives MP Mickail Naseem calls on parliament to summon foreign minister

Kashmir Valley is witnessing an unprecedented change in the weather. In January, tourist resorts such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg would typically have accumulated ample snow by now. But this year, the winter wonderland of Kashmir, Gulmarg is dry with no snow anywhere to be seen.&nbsp;Experts attribute the disappointment of tourists who visit to witness the snow to global warming.

Kashmir valley is facing a dry spell this season, with no snow or rain in the valley. The MeT Department says that there is around 75 per cent rainfall deficit through December and January, and the world-famous ski resort Gulmarg slopes are looking barren with no snow cover.&nbsp;

''The weather is dry throughout Jammu and Kashmir and during the next one week till 16&nbsp;to 17&nbsp;January, the weather is going to be dry. There is no major relief from this dry spell for the next few days. Over the years, the glaciers have shrunk, and this year there has been no snow, and the rate of shrinkage can be rapid due to absence of snowfall. Long term implications of the dry spell could affect ground water level and horticulture sector too. There is no snow, and it will impact tourism as well,'' Mushtaq Ahmad,&nbsp;Director, MeT, Kashmir, told WION.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulmarg-gondola-breaks-records-over-a-million-tourists-in-2023-generate-12mn-for-cable-car-corporation-677922">Also read |&nbsp;Gulmarg Gondola breaks records: Over a million tourists in 2023 generate $12mn for Cable Car Corporation</a>

The weather experts have said that the warming of sea surface temperatures&nbsp;has disrupted the global weather and is also one of the reasons for less rains and snow in the Himalayan region. The tourists visiting places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are highly disappointed&nbsp;as there is no snow cover on these hill stations.&nbsp;

''We had planned a trip in January to see snow and we are disappointed that there is no snow. We spent so much money and came so far, and we are kind of disappointed, “Daman, a tourist told WION.&nbsp;

The dry spell has also now started to impact the livelihood of the locals whose lives depend on tourism.

The disappointment among the tourists visiting is now spreading via social media and many people are cancelling their trips. The tourism&nbsp;stake holders are also praying and hoping for weather change so that the tourist rush continues.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gujarat Global Summit 2024: Event begins Jan 10, 133 countries, 50 US firms to participate

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''We are losing a lot of money due to no snow. Usually there used to be a lot of snow, around 5-6 feet but the dry spell has led to a lot of losses. The sledge guys, the guides and everyone is losing money to due dry spell," Touseef Parray, a tourist guide told WION.&nbsp;

The Met Department has said that there is no likely respite from the dry spell for the next one week.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley is witnessing an unprecedented change in the weather. In January, tourist resorts such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg would typically have accumulated ample snow by now.

Kashmir Valley is witnessing an unprecedented change in the weather. In January, tourist resorts such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg would typically have accumulated ample snow by now. But this year, the winter wonderland of Kashmir, Gulmarg is dry with no snow anywhere to be seen. Experts attribute the disappointment of tourists who visit to witness the snow to global warming. Kashmir valley is facing a dry spell this season, with no snow or rain in the valley. The MeT Department says that there is around 75 per cent rainfall deficit through December and January, and the world-famous ski resort Gulmarg slopes are looking barren with no snow cover. ''The weather is dry throughout Jammu and Kashmir and during the next one week till 16 to 17 January, the weather is going to be dry. There is no major relief from this dry spell for the next few days. Over the years, the glaciers have shrunk, and this year there has been no snow, and the rate of shrinkage can be rapid due to absence of snowfall. Long term implications of the dry spell could affect ground water level and horticulture sector too. There is no snow, and it will impact tourism as well,'' Mushtaq Ahmad, Director, MeT, Kashmir, told WION. Also read | Gulmarg Gondola breaks records: Over a million tourists in 2023 generate $12mn for Cable Car Corporation The weather experts have said that the warming of sea surface temperatures has disrupted the global weather and is also one of the reasons for less rains and snow in the Himalayan region. The tourists visiting places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are highly disappointed as there is no snow cover on these hill stations. ''We had planned a trip in January to see snow and we are disappointed that there is no snow. We spent so much money and came so far, and we are kind of disappointed, “Daman, a tourist told WION. The dry spell has also now started to impact the livelihood of the locals whose lives depend on tourism. The disappointment among the tourists visiting is now spreading via social media and many people are cancelling their trips. The tourism stake holders are also praying and hoping for weather change so that the tourist rush continues. Also watch | Gujarat Global Summit 2024: Event begins Jan 10, 133 countries, 50 US firms to participate ''We are losing a lot of money due to no snow. Usually there used to be a lot of snow, around 5-6 feet but the dry spell has led to a lot of losses. The sledge guys, the guides and everyone is losing money to due dry spell," Touseef Parray, a tourist guide told WION. The Met Department has said that there is no likely respite from the dry spell for the next one week.

Climate change causes dry spell in Kashmir: Winter wonderland Gulmarg struggles with no snow

Visuals coming in from Gujarat where a roadshow is being led by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the UAE president Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan who is the the chief guest for this event. The roadshow is being held at the state capital Ahmedabad and just ahead of the 3-day Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.

India-UAE 3km long roadshow with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Visuals coming in of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting the UAE President. This is a crucial moment and some time from now, PM Narendra Modi and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will also be leading a roadshow from outside Sardar Vallabhai Patel Airport. Watch to know more.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit: Indian PM Modi leads roadshow ahead of 3-day mega business event

In 2022 the then-UK prime minister Boris Johnson promised a trade deal with India since Johnson has left and 2 years have passed but the trade deal is nowhere to be seen. So we asked the UK's minister of state for South Asia about where the negotiations stand he confirmed to our senior correspondent Sidharth MP that the talks are progressing well and could be inked very soon.

UK's Minister for South Asia Tariq Ahmad speaks to WION

Lakshadweep to get Israeli desalination plant. Israel is one of the leading players in the desalination process. The announcement comes amid India-Maldives tensions.

Israel's desalination project to help India's Lakshadweep Islands

In order to combat the Houthi danger to the commercial boats operating in the area, India has sent its warships to the Red Sea. INS Kochi and INS Kolkata are now conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden, which links the Arabian Sea with the Red Sea.

Houthis in Red Sea: Indian Navy now has a fleet of 10 ships in the Red Sea region

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the business event for hundreds of domestic and foreign investors visiting his home state of Gujarat for the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024. The event will take place from January 10-12. Watch to know more!

Gujarat Global Summit 2024: Modi-Al Nahyan roadshow ahead of mega event

<o:p></o:p>

Microsoft on Monday unveiled AI Odyssey, a transformative initiative with a mission to equip 100,000 developers in India with the latest AI technologies and tools.<o:p></o:p>

The initiative offers an immersive learning experience designed to enable developers to gain and showcase the essential skills required for executing pivotal projects utilising AI technologies aligned with business objectives. <o:p></o:p>

As AI continues to reshape the work landscape, Microsoft aims to foster a skilled workforce capable of leveraging AI to address intricate challenges and drive value. <o:p></o:p>

AI Odyssey provides a platform for developers to contribute to India's growth by crafting solutions and demonstrating their prowess in solving real-world issues. <o:p></o:p>

To participate, developers can register on aka.ms/AIOdyssey, accessing learning modules and resources.<o:p></o:p>

This month-long program, open to all AI enthusiasts in India, irrespective of their background or experience level, comprises two levels that participants must complete by January 31, 2024. <o:p></o:p>

The first level guides participants in utilising Azure AI services to develop and deploy solutions for diverse scenarios, providing access to valuable resources, code samples, and guides to master practical AI skills.<o:p></o:p>

Irina Ghose, Managing Director, Microsoft India, said, “AI is the future of innovation, and India is leading the way with its tech talent. The Microsoft Applied Skills credential will help developers demonstrate their competence and creativity in the most in-demand AI skills and scenarios. We welcome all developers to join us in creating meaningful AI solutions that will contribute to India’s economy.”<o:p></o:p>

The second level of AI Odyssey challenges participants to validate their AI skills through an online assessment featuring interactive lab tasks, earning them the Microsoft Applied Skills credentials—a verifiable credential attesting to their ability to address real-world problems using AI. <o:p></o:p>

Successful participants in both levels also have the chance to win a VIP Pass for the Microsoft AI Tour scheduled in Bangalore on February 8, 2024. <o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Microsoft on Monday unveiled AI Odyssey, a transformative initiative with a mission to equip 100,000 developers in India with the latest AI technologies and tools.

Microsoft on Monday unveiled AI Odyssey, a transformative initiative with a mission to equip 100,000 developers in India with the latest AI technologies and tools. The initiative offers an immersive learning experience designed to enable developers to gain and showcase the essential skills required for executing pivotal projects utilising AI technologies aligned with business objectives. As AI continues to reshape the work landscape, Microsoft aims to foster a skilled workforce capable of leveraging AI to address intricate challenges and drive value. AI Odyssey provides a platform for developers to contribute to India's growth by crafting solutions and demonstrating their prowess in solving real-world issues. To participate, developers can register on aka.ms/AIOdyssey, accessing learning modules and resources. This month-long program, open to all AI enthusiasts in India, irrespective of their background or experience level, comprises two levels that participants must complete by January 31, 2024. The first level guides participants in utilising Azure AI services to develop and deploy solutions for diverse scenarios, providing access to valuable resources, code samples, and guides to master practical AI skills. Irina Ghose, Managing Director, Microsoft India, said, “AI is the future of innovation, and India is leading the way with its tech talent. The Microsoft Applied Skills credential will help developers demonstrate their competence and creativity in the most in-demand AI skills and scenarios. We welcome all developers to join us in creating meaningful AI solutions that will contribute to India’s economy.” The second level of AI Odyssey challenges participants to validate their AI skills through an online assessment featuring interactive lab tasks, earning them the Microsoft Applied Skills credentials—a verifiable credential attesting to their ability to address real-world problems using AI. Successful participants in both levels also have the chance to win a VIP Pass for the Microsoft AI Tour scheduled in Bangalore on February 8, 2024. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Microsoft launches AI Odyssey to empower 100,000 developers in India

In a fascinating turn of events, Lakshadweep has captured the imagination of Indian travelers, witnessing an astonishing 50-fold surge in travel searches. Riding this wave of unprecedented interest, India's digital payments giant, Paytm, has introduced an exclusive 10% discount on flight tickets to this mesmerizing archipelago, signaling a shift in travel preferences.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep has undeniably played a pivotal role in propelling the island to the top of jetsetters' wishlists. Travel platforms report a substantial uptick in inquiries, with users expressing a keen interest in exploring the pristine beauty of Lakshadweep. The surge in travel searches has prompted Paytm to align its offerings with this emerging trend, presenting an enticing discount for travelers eager to experience the island's charm.

Lakshadweep's skies are getting busier as more Indians opt for domestic travel, a trend that has gained momentum in recent times. With Air India operating flights to Lakshadweep's sole airport in Agatti Island, accessible via Kerala, the island has become a convenient yet exotic destination for those seeking a tropical paradise.

The 'Visit Lakshadweep' campaign has gained significant momentum post-Prime Minister Modi's visit, sparking discussions about the destination's newfound popularity. Travel companies are quick to capitalize on this trend by offering steep discounts, further fueling interest among potential tourists.

As Lakshadweep emerges as an alternative to traditional favorites like the Maldives, the debate intensifies over whether it will become the preferred choice for Indian beachgoers. Celebrities, travel agencies, and even foreign embassies are joining the chorus, endorsing Lakshadweep as the new jetsetter's paradise.

The&nbsp;island's allure, coupled with the surge in domestic travel, paints a promising picture for Lakshadweep's tourism industry. With the 'Visit Lakshadweep' campaign gaining widespread support and Indians taking to the skies more frequently, the archipelago is poised to become the sought-after destination for those seeking sun, sand, and serenity.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a fascinating turn of events, Lakshadweep has captured the imagination of Indian travelers, witnessing an astonishing 50-fold surge in travel searches. Riding this wave of unprecedented interest, India's digital payments giant, Paytm, has introduced an exclusive 10% discount on flight tickets to this mesmerizing archipelago, signaling a shift in travel preferences.

In a fascinating turn of events, Lakshadweep has captured the imagination of Indian travelers, witnessing an astonishing 50-fold surge in travel searches. Riding this wave of unprecedented interest, India's digital payments giant, Paytm, has introduced an exclusive 10% discount on flight tickets to this mesmerizing archipelago, signaling a shift in travel preferences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep has undeniably played a pivotal role in propelling the island to the top of jetsetters' wishlists. Travel platforms report a substantial uptick in inquiries, with users expressing a keen interest in exploring the pristine beauty of Lakshadweep. The surge in travel searches has prompted Paytm to align its offerings with this emerging trend, presenting an enticing discount for travelers eager to experience the island's charm. Lakshadweep's skies are getting busier as more Indians opt for domestic travel, a trend that has gained momentum in recent times. With Air India operating flights to Lakshadweep's sole airport in Agatti Island, accessible via Kerala, the island has become a convenient yet exotic destination for those seeking a tropical paradise. The 'Visit Lakshadweep' campaign has gained significant momentum post-Prime Minister Modi's visit, sparking discussions about the destination's newfound popularity. Travel companies are quick to capitalize on this trend by offering steep discounts, further fueling interest among potential tourists. As Lakshadweep emerges as an alternative to traditional favorites like the Maldives, the debate intensifies over whether it will become the preferred choice for Indian beachgoers. Celebrities, travel agencies, and even foreign embassies are joining the chorus, endorsing Lakshadweep as the new jetsetter's paradise. The island's allure, coupled with the surge in domestic travel, paints a promising picture for Lakshadweep's tourism industry. With the 'Visit Lakshadweep' campaign gaining widespread support and Indians taking to the skies more frequently, the archipelago is poised to become the sought-after destination for those seeking sun, sand, and serenity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Lakshadweep emerges as the new jewel in Indian beachgoers' wishlist

In an unprecedented move reflecting growing economic affluence and investor confidence, December 2023 witnessed a record-breaking surge as four million individuals embraced Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). This remarkable upswing marked a 31% increase from the previous month, adding substantial momentum to India's equity boom.

The surge in SIP registrations showcases a robust 75% growth compared to December 2022, creating a buzz in financial circles. The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) highlights that this consistent growth has propelled SIP registrations for the current fiscal year beyond the combined figures of the previous two years. The figures underscore a resounding validation of India's economic trajectory.

Analysts attribute this euphoria to reinforced investor confidence in India's macroeconomic fundamentals, buoyed by optimism about potential interest rate cuts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party's success in crucial state elections has further fueled this positive sentiment. Investors seem emboldened by the prospect of a pro-business government post-general elections in May, aligning their financial strategies with India's political landscape.

The surge also aligns with a broader trend of rising incomes among Indians, prompting a shift towards diversified investment portfolios. After years of conservative financial strategies, more Indians are now venturing into equities, drawn by the allure of a bullish market. The surge in SIP registrations is not merely a statistical anomaly; it signifies a growing preference for disciplined investment.

The data coincides with a significant increase in new investors opening demat accounts, reaching the highest monthly additions in December. This trend underscores investors' confidence in the Indian economy, currently the fastest-growing globally. As SIPs gain traction amidst all-time highs in the market, investors display a prudent approach by choosing systematic investment over lump-sum investments.

The economic optimism is palpable, as the surge in SIP registrations aligns with India's burgeoning stature on the global economic stage. The country's resilience and growth potential continue to attract investors, and the SIP trend exemplifies a collective belief in India's financial future.

As the world looks towards India's economic prowess, the SIP surge stands as a testament to the nation's rising affluence and the burgeoning confidence of its investors. It's not merely a spike in numbers; it's a resounding chorus of optimism echoing through the financial landscape of the world's fastest-growing economy.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In an unprecedented move reflecting growing economic affluence and investor confidence, December 2023 witnessed a record-breaking surge as four million individuals embraced Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs).

In an unprecedented move reflecting growing economic affluence and investor confidence, December 2023 witnessed a record-breaking surge as four million individuals embraced Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). This remarkable upswing marked a 31% increase from the previous month, adding substantial momentum to India's equity boom. The surge in SIP registrations showcases a robust 75% growth compared to December 2022, creating a buzz in financial circles. The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) highlights that this consistent growth has propelled SIP registrations for the current fiscal year beyond the combined figures of the previous two years. The figures underscore a resounding validation of India's economic trajectory. Analysts attribute this euphoria to reinforced investor confidence in India's macroeconomic fundamentals, buoyed by optimism about potential interest rate cuts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party's success in crucial state elections has further fueled this positive sentiment. Investors seem emboldened by the prospect of a pro-business government post-general elections in May, aligning their financial strategies with India's political landscape. The surge also aligns with a broader trend of rising incomes among Indians, prompting a shift towards diversified investment portfolios. After years of conservative financial strategies, more Indians are now venturing into equities, drawn by the allure of a bullish market. The surge in SIP registrations is not merely a statistical anomaly; it signifies a growing preference for disciplined investment. The data coincides with a significant increase in new investors opening demat accounts, reaching the highest monthly additions in December. This trend underscores investors' confidence in the Indian economy, currently the fastest-growing globally. As SIPs gain traction amidst all-time highs in the market, investors display a prudent approach by choosing systematic investment over lump-sum investments. The economic optimism is palpable, as the surge in SIP registrations aligns with India's burgeoning stature on the global economic stage. The country's resilience and growth potential continue to attract investors, and the SIP trend exemplifies a collective belief in India's financial future. As the world looks towards India's economic prowess, the SIP surge stands as a testament to the nation's rising affluence and the burgeoning confidence of its investors. It's not merely a spike in numbers; it's a resounding chorus of optimism echoing through the financial landscape of the world's fastest-growing economy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India Witnesses Historic Surge in SIP Registrations: A Testament to Economic Confidence?

Gujarat Global Summit 2024: Event begins Jan 10, 133 countries, 50 US firms to participate

The bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives had always been positive before the Muizzu government assumed power in Maldives last year and things have only gone from bad to worse in recent days with three of his ministers passing derogatory remarks against Indian PM sparking a diplomatic row.

Maldives Pres announces India visit after diplomatic row | Too little too late? | In-Live Discussion

Houthis in Red Sea: Indian merchant ships also targetted | India sends Navy ships to patrol regions

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