After Kerala, JN.1 variant has now been found in Goa. 142 new cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours. Singapore has become a country of concern, Indonesia is asking travellers to be vigilant. In Malaysia, cases have doubled. This is December Deja Vu.

Gravitas: Covid-19: After Kerala, JN.1 variant reported in Goa

The COVID scare does not seem to go away four years since China reported its first case and new variants are still circulating globally. The Indian government has now confirmed the presence of JN.1 subvariant of COVID-19 in the southern state of Kerala.

Covid variant JN.1 in India: Masks mandatory for everyone aged 60 & over in Karnataka

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms.

India: Over 800 stranded in rainfall in Tamil Nadu | Covid makes global comeback | Trending on WION

Covid cases are once again on the rise, in India. The Indian government has confirmed the presence of JN.1 subvariant of COVID-19 in the southern state of Kerala. The Union Health Ministry data on Monday revealed that India recorded 260 new Covid infections in the last 24 hours.

Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern | WION

JN.1 sub-variant cases surge worldwide; India, Singapore, UK among many nations to report rise

India’s key opposition parties gather to discuss 2024 roadmap. After the recent setback in state polls, the parties are expected to discuss a joint campaign strategy and seat sharing.

India's opposition bloc key meet underway amidst the mass suspension of MPs from Parliament

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy.<o:p></o:p>

India contributes over 16pc to global growth, IMF report reveals strong economic performance<o:p></o:p>

India's strong economic performance has been lauded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has projected that the country will contribute more than 16 per cent to global growth as a result of significant infrastructure and digitalisation reforms.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-contributes-over-16pc-to-global-growth-imf-report-reveals-strong-economic-performance-671140">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

EU launches first probe under Digital Services Act, targets X over suspected violations<o:p></o:p>

Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), the European Union (EU) has launched its first inquiry, targeting social media behemoth X for alleged breaches, mostly pertaining to posts made in the wake of Hamas's attacks on Israel.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/eu-launches-first-probe-under-digital-services-act-targets-x-over-suspected-violations-671151">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Red Sea attacks disrupt global shipping: Coalition forming to tackle threat<o:p></o:p>

The United States is working quickly to form a coalition to counter the growing threat posed by recent attacks on ships in the Red Sea by Houthi insurgents from Yemen affiliated with Iran.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/red-sea-attacks-disrupt-global-shipping-coalition-forming-to-tackle-threat-671164">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Rupiah faces testing times as Indonesia gears up for elections<o:p></o:p>

The strength of the rupiah is being closely watched as Indonesia gets ready for its national elections in February 2024; experts see a possible downward trend in the value of the currency.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rupiah-faces-testing-times-as-indonesia-gears-up-for-elections-671201">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

India leads global remittance surge with projected 23pc increase to $125 bn in 2023<o:p></o:p>

As per the World Bank's latest Migration and Development Brief, India is expected to become the world's largest recipient of remittances in 2023, with an expected increase of more than 11 per cent, culminating in $125 billion.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-leads-global-remittance-surge-with-projected-23pc-increase-to-125-bn-in-2023-671207">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Turkey saves billions on Russian oil amid sanctions, boosting imports<o:p></o:p>

Turkey and Turkish businesses were able to dramatically increase imports of Russian oil and refined goods in 2023, saving them almost $2 billion in energy costs.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/turkey-saves-billions-on-russian-oil-amid-sanctions-boosting-imports-671228">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

UPI transactions skyrocket, marking a 147pc surge in five years: Government Reports<o:p></o:p>

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become the driving force behind an increase in digital payments, resulting in a 7.8 per cent growth in banknotes in circulation during the most recent fiscal year.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/upi-transactions-skyrocket-marking-a-147pc-surge-in-five-years-government-reports-671247">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

Apple halts US sales of Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches amid patent dispute<o:p></o:p>

Apple has announced the temporary suspension of sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States due to a legal issue that affects the blood oxygen feature.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-halts-us-sales-of-series-9-and-ultra-2-smartwatches-amid-patent-dispute-671263">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

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>

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy. India contributes over 16pc to global growth, IMF report reveals strong economic performance India's strong economic performance has been lauded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has projected that the country will contribute more than 16 per cent to global growth as a result of significant infrastructure and digitalisation reforms.

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round-up of global stories from the world of business and economy. India contributes over 16pc to global growth, IMF report reveals strong economic performance India's strong economic performance has been lauded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has projected that the country will contribute more than 16 per cent to global growth as a result of significant infrastructure and digitalisation reforms. Read more here EU launches first probe under Digital Services Act, targets X over suspected violations Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), the European Union (EU) has launched its first inquiry, targeting social media behemoth X for alleged breaches, mostly pertaining to posts made in the wake of Hamas's attacks on Israel. Read more here Red Sea attacks disrupt global shipping: Coalition forming to tackle threat The United States is working quickly to form a coalition to counter the growing threat posed by recent attacks on ships in the Red Sea by Houthi insurgents from Yemen affiliated with Iran. Read more here Rupiah faces testing times as Indonesia gears up for elections The strength of the rupiah is being closely watched as Indonesia gets ready for its national elections in February 2024; experts see a possible downward trend in the value of the currency. Read more here India leads global remittance surge with projected 23pc increase to $125 bn in 2023 As per the World Bank's latest Migration and Development Brief, India is expected to become the world's largest recipient of remittances in 2023, with an expected increase of more than 11 per cent, culminating in $125 billion. Read more here Turkey saves billions on Russian oil amid sanctions, boosting imports Turkey and Turkish businesses were able to dramatically increase imports of Russian oil and refined goods in 2023, saving them almost $2 billion in energy costs. Read more here UPI transactions skyrocket, marking a 147pc surge in five years: Government Reports The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become the driving force behind an increase in digital payments, resulting in a 7.8 per cent growth in banknotes in circulation during the most recent fiscal year. Read more here Apple halts US sales of Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches amid patent dispute Apple has announced the temporary suspension of sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States due to a legal issue that affects the blood oxygen feature. Read more here WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WION Business Wrap | India’s 16pc contribution to global growth, EU’s probe on X, Red sea attacks & more

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as the powerhouse behind a remarkable surge in digital payments, reducing the growth of banknotes in circulation to 7.8 per cent in the last fiscal year, according to a government statement reported by Hindustan Times.<o:p></o:p>

Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat K Karad revealed in a written reply to Lok Sabha that UPI transactions have skyrocketed from 92 crore rupees ($11 million) in FY 2017-18 to 8,375 crore rupees ($1 billion) in FY 2022-23, boasting an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 147 per cent in terms of volume.<o:p></o:p>

Simultaneously, the value of UPI transactions has soared from 1 lakh crore rupees ($1 trillion) in FY 2017-18 to 139 lakh crore rupees ($16 trillion) in FY 2022-23, demonstrating a robust CAGR of 168 per cent. 

In the ongoing financial year until December 11, UPI has achieved a staggering 8,572 crore transactions. UPI constitutes 62 per cent of digital payment transactions in FY 2022-23, contributing significantly to the decline in the Year-on-Year growth of banknotes in circulation.<o:p></o:p>

The journey of UPI, initiated in 2016 as an instant payment system by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has seen continuous evolution.

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval to link RuPay credit cards to UPI, eliminating the need for a physical plastic card. This move enables customers to use RuPay credit cards seamlessly at small merchant outlets equipped with QR codes.<o:p></o:p>

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>

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as the powerhouse behind a remarkable surge in digital payments, reducing the growth of banknotes in circulation to 7.

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as the powerhouse behind a remarkable surge in digital payments, reducing the growth of banknotes in circulation to 7.8 per cent in the last fiscal year, according to a government statement reported by Hindustan Times. Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat K Karad revealed in a written reply to Lok Sabha that UPI transactions have skyrocketed from 92 crore rupees ($11 million) in FY 2017-18 to 8,375 crore rupees ($1 billion) in FY 2022-23, boasting an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 147 per cent in terms of volume. Simultaneously, the value of UPI transactions has soared from 1 lakh crore rupees ($1 trillion) in FY 2017-18 to 139 lakh crore rupees ($16 trillion) in FY 2022-23, demonstrating a robust CAGR of 168 per cent. In the ongoing financial year until December 11, UPI has achieved a staggering 8,572 crore transactions. UPI constitutes 62 per cent of digital payment transactions in FY 2022-23, contributing significantly to the decline in the Year-on-Year growth of banknotes in circulation. The journey of UPI, initiated in 2016 as an instant payment system by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has seen continuous evolution. Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval to link RuPay credit cards to UPI, eliminating the need for a physical plastic card. This move enables customers to use RuPay credit cards seamlessly at small merchant outlets equipped with QR codes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UPI transactions skyrocket, marking a 147pc surge in five years: Government Reports

Critical meeting of the Opposition INDIA group will take place in Delhi and cover a range of topics, including as seat-sharing, developing a common campaign roadmap, and formulating a plan to challenge the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

2024 Lok Sabha elections preparation: INDIA alliance to meet today after over three months

During the state visit of Oman's ruler, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, India and Oman have made progress in discussions over a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), bilateral investments, and potential bilateral rupee trade on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

This marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, with Sultan Haitham being the first Omani ruler to visit India since 1997. Mint cited Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, who emphasised the recent advancements, stating, "Although the negotiations on CEPA have started only recently, they have made substantial progress in the last few rounds of discussion." <o:p></o:p>

The proposed CEPA aims to eliminate import duties, benefiting key sectors like motor gasoline, textiles, electronics, machinery, and iron and steel.<o:p></o:p>

Boosting economic cooperation and investments<o:p></o:p>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan Haitham discussed the multifaceted aspects of economic cooperation, with a focus on the release of the third tranche of the Oman India Joint Investment Fund, totalling $300 million. The objective of this joint venture between the Oman Investment Authority and the State Bank of India is to direct investments towards the rapidly expanding sectors of India.<o:p></o:p>

According to a report by the Hindustan Times, Modi expressed optimism about the ongoing CEPA discussions, stating, "I am glad that discussions on CEPA are ongoing between the two sides. Two rounds of talks have been successfully completed, in which consensus has been reached on many important issues."<o:p></o:p>

The leaders adopted the "India-Oman Joint Vision: A partnership for the future," outlining concrete action points for 10 sectors.<o:p></o:p>

Exploring new avenues of cooperation<o:p></o:p>

Beyond economic ties, the discussions between India and Oman delved into various sectors. Foreign Secretary Kwatra highlighted the exploration of financial technologies, the possibility of establishing rupee trade, and cooperation in space-related activities, including services, satellite building and launching, and capacity building. The talks also extended to green hydrogen, renewable energy, and the strategic utilisation of Oman's Duqm port by Indian navy ships for logistical and humanitarian purposes.<o:p></o:p>

Shared vision for the future<o:p></o:p>

The joint vision document, shaped by the Oman Vision 2040 and India's development vision till 2047, focuses on 10 key areas. These include maritime cooperation, energy security, space cooperation, digital payments, health, tourism, disaster management, agriculture, and the use of cricket to enhance people-to-people ties. Sultan Haitham and Modi expressed confidence that the joint vision would pave the way for a new and modern shape to their partnership.<o:p></o:p>

Challenges and regional issues<o:p></o:p>

The discussions also addressed challenges in West Asia, with a specific mention of the crisis in the region. Foreign Secretary Kwatra emphasised a shared appreciation of the challenges arising from the Israel-Hamas conflict, describing it as an "important element of the discussions." <o:p></o:p>

The leaders exchanged perspectives on terrorism, advocating for a two-state solution as a way forward. Additionally, agreements were signed on cooperation in combating financial crimes, information technology, culture, and the establishment of a Hindi chair of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in Oman.<o:p></o:p>

Maritime security and defence engagement<o:p></o:p>

India and Oman reaffirmed their partnership in maritime security in the western Indian Ocean, with robust defence engagement. Maritime cooperation is extensive, and Oman's Duqm port is positioned as a logistical base for joint efforts in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Foreign Secretary Kwatra underscored the vital role of the Indian community in Oman, with 700,000 members contributing significantly to the country's economic development.

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>

During the state visit of Oman's ruler, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, India and Oman have made progress in discussions over a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), bilateral investments, and potential bilateral rupee trade on Saturday.

During the state visit of Oman's ruler, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, India and Oman have made progress in discussions over a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), bilateral investments, and potential bilateral rupee trade on Saturday. This marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, with Sultan Haitham being the first Omani ruler to visit India since 1997. Mint cited Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, who emphasised the recent advancements, stating, "Although the negotiations on CEPA have started only recently, they have made substantial progress in the last few rounds of discussion." The proposed CEPA aims to eliminate import duties, benefiting key sectors like motor gasoline, textiles, electronics, machinery, and iron and steel. Boosting economic cooperation and investments Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan Haitham discussed the multifaceted aspects of economic cooperation, with a focus on the release of the third tranche of the Oman India Joint Investment Fund, totalling $300 million. The objective of this joint venture between the Oman Investment Authority and the State Bank of India is to direct investments towards the rapidly expanding sectors of India. According to a report by the Hindustan Times, Modi expressed optimism about the ongoing CEPA discussions, stating, "I am glad that discussions on CEPA are ongoing between the two sides. Two rounds of talks have been successfully completed, in which consensus has been reached on many important issues." The leaders adopted the "India-Oman Joint Vision: A partnership for the future," outlining concrete action points for 10 sectors. Exploring new avenues of cooperation Beyond economic ties, the discussions between India and Oman delved into various sectors. Foreign Secretary Kwatra highlighted the exploration of financial technologies, the possibility of establishing rupee trade, and cooperation in space-related activities, including services, satellite building and launching, and capacity building. The talks also extended to green hydrogen, renewable energy, and the strategic utilisation of Oman's Duqm port by Indian navy ships for logistical and humanitarian purposes. Shared vision for the future The joint vision document, shaped by the Oman Vision 2040 and India's development vision till 2047, focuses on 10 key areas. These include maritime cooperation, energy security, space cooperation, digital payments, health, tourism, disaster management, agriculture, and the use of cricket to enhance people-to-people ties. Sultan Haitham and Modi expressed confidence that the joint vision would pave the way for a new and modern shape to their partnership. Challenges and regional issues The discussions also addressed challenges in West Asia, with a specific mention of the crisis in the region. Foreign Secretary Kwatra emphasised a shared appreciation of the challenges arising from the Israel-Hamas conflict, describing it as an "important element of the discussions." The leaders exchanged perspectives on terrorism, advocating for a two-state solution as a way forward. Additionally, agreements were signed on cooperation in combating financial crimes, information technology, culture, and the establishment of a Hindi chair of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in Oman. Maritime security and defence engagement India and Oman reaffirmed their partnership in maritime security in the western Indian Ocean, with robust defence engagement. Maritime cooperation is extensive, and Oman's Duqm port is positioned as a logistical base for joint efforts in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Foreign Secretary Kwatra underscored the vital role of the Indian community in Oman, with 700,000 members contributing significantly to the country's economic development. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India and Oman strengthen economic ties: CEPA progress and joint vision

A total of 78 opposition MPs were suspended from both houses of parliament on Monday, December 18, taking the total of suspended MPs since December 15 to 92. While 33 MPs were suspended in the Lok Sabha, 45 were suspended in the Rajya Sabha. On December 14, a total of 14 MPs (13 in Lok Sabha and one in Rajya Sabha) were suspended

India: 78 MPs suspended for unruly behaviour in Parliament

Surat, the diamond cutting and polishing capital of the world, processes 90% of the globe's rough diamonds. With the inauguration of this massive bourse, the city aims to solidify its position as the world's diamond capital.

Modi launches world's largest diamond bourse, promises 150,000 jobs

Covid-19: Kerala records 111 new Covid cases & 1 death | World News | WION

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducts extensive raids across four states, targeting a network with suspected Islamic State ties. Spanning 19 locations in Karnataka, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Delhi, these actions build on recent operations against terrorism. The report delves into the strategy, key figures detained, and the seizure of explosive materials and incriminating evidence, highlighting India's multifaceted fight against terror groups like ISIS and PLFI.

Gravitas | India's NIA targets terror networks in nationwide raids

India and Oman are rapidly advancing towards a lucrative trade deal that promises significant economic gains. With a focus extending beyond petroleum, the negotiations reveal strategic manoeuvres and opportunities.

Oman deal offers gains for India

India: 78 MPs suspended from Indian parliament for unruly behaviour

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, on December 18 launched the party's crowdfunding campaign in Delhi, asking people to join the fight against unemployment and rising costs. Kharge donated a sum of ₹1,38,000 from his salary to launch the "Donate for Desh" campaign in the presence of party leaders and general secretaries K. C. Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh and treasurer Ajay Maken.

Congress launches 'Donate for Desh' crowdfunding campaign

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers.&nbsp;

"I will never allow driverless cars to come into India because it will take away the jobs of several drivers, and I will not let that happen," Gadkari was quoted as saying by Business Today.

While&nbsp;welcoming&nbsp;Elon Musk's Tesla to operate in India, Gadkari laid out a condition that could impact the electric vehicle giant's plans.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Self-driving cars: $100 billion bet gone wrong?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/self-driving-cars-100-billion-bet-gone-wrong-524031/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He specified that Tesla could not manufacture vehicles in China for sales in India, stating, "We will allow Tesla to come to India, but they cannot manufacture in China and sell it in India. That is an impossible thing to happen."

In the past, while Elon Musk has criticised what he claimed were India's high import taxes, New Delhi remains averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China.&nbsp;

<h2>Gadkari's remarks on driverless cars: What do they mean?</h2>

Gadkari's remarks highlight the intersection of technology, employment, and international trade policies in India's evolving automotive landscape.&nbsp;

The government's approach towards autonomous vehicles also reflects a policy of caution rather than a sense of excitement over innovation whose potential may impact human jobs in India where a large number of people are employed in the transportation sector.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ai-based-tech-start-up-develops-indias-first-autonomous-car-zpod-600898">AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod'</a>

In addition to addressing concerns about the future of transportation, Gadkari underlined the significance of hydrogen as the fuel of the future. He affirmed New Delhi's move to embrace advanced technology for improving public infrastructure.

"Hydrogen is the futuristic fuel, and we are working towards bringing the best technology to help in enhancing public infrastructure."

<h2>What's the bottom line?</h2>

As India navigates the evolving landscape of mobility and energy amid spree of innovations, the government's decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for both the automotive industry as well as the workforce.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers.

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers. "I will never allow driverless cars to come into India because it will take away the jobs of several drivers, and I will not let that happen," Gadkari was quoted as saying by Business Today. While welcoming Elon Musk's Tesla to operate in India, Gadkari laid out a condition that could impact the electric vehicle giant's plans. Also watch | Self-driving cars: $100 billion bet gone wrong? × He specified that Tesla could not manufacture vehicles in China for sales in India, stating, "We will allow Tesla to come to India, but they cannot manufacture in China and sell it in India. That is an impossible thing to happen." In the past, while Elon Musk has criticised what he claimed were India's high import taxes, New Delhi remains averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China. Gadkari's remarks on driverless cars: What do they mean? Gadkari's remarks highlight the intersection of technology, employment, and international trade policies in India's evolving automotive landscape. The government's approach towards autonomous vehicles also reflects a policy of caution rather than a sense of excitement over innovation whose potential may impact human jobs in India where a large number of people are employed in the transportation sector. Also read | AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod' In addition to addressing concerns about the future of transportation, Gadkari underlined the significance of hydrogen as the fuel of the future. He affirmed New Delhi's move to embrace advanced technology for improving public infrastructure. "Hydrogen is the futuristic fuel, and we are working towards bringing the best technology to help in enhancing public infrastructure." What's the bottom line? As India navigates the evolving landscape of mobility and energy amid spree of innovations, the government's decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for both the automotive industry as well as the workforce. (With inputs from agencies)

Will driverless cars run on Indian roads? Minister Nitin Gadkari clears the air

The Indian government has tabled Telecommunications bill 2023 in the lower house of the parliament, The Union cabinet approved the bill in August 2023. The bill will replace the colonial era Indian Telegraph Act.

Telecom Bill 2023: Modernising India's telecom sector

Recent allegations of Indian involvement in the death of a Khalistani activist have triggered a diplomatic showdown between India and Canada. India's firm stance against all forms of terrorism and its expectation of Western support has set the stage for a prolonged standoff. This dispute has the potential to strain relations further, and it highlights the complexities of addressing terrorism on a global scale. Vikram Chandra tells you more.

India-Canada row: India always open to look at inputs, says Jaishankar

2023 was a year of blockbuster films and shows, the search giant Google under its year 2023 in search - it has released a list of the top 10 most searched movies. Three Indian movies are also on the list. Watch the video to know more.

Most Googled movies: Three Indian movies including Pathaan, Jawan & Gadar make it to Google Trends

The external affairs minister of India, S. Jaishankar will be visiting Russia this week. The diplomatic visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two major economies of the world. The trip is expected to begin during the upcoming weekend and is anticipated to extend through Christmas.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar in Russia through Christmas

In the interest of maintaining national security, the government may take control of, manage, or halt any or all telecommunications services or networks, according to the draft Telecommunications Bill, 2023, which was presented to the Lok Sabha on Monday. The 138-year-old Indian Telegraph Act, which now regulates the telecom industry, is intended to be replaced by the Telecommunications Bill, 2023.

Telecommunications Bill 2023: Mordernising India's telecom sector, know all about the bill | WION

Some 800 train passengers have been stranded in the state's Thoothukudi district.Villages, towns, highways and railroads in several regions of southern Tamil Nadu now resemble rivers.

Tamil Nadu: 800 passengers stranded at railway station | WION Dispatch

india

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