In a shocking incident in Vantamuri village,&nbsp;Belagavi district&nbsp;in the state of Karnataka in south India, a woman fell victim to a brutal assault on December 11, when she was brutally thrashed, tied&nbsp;to an electricity pole, and paraded&nbsp;partially stripped. The attack was allegedly orchestrated as retribution after her son eloped with a girl from the village on the day of her engagement, disrupting the&nbsp;scheduled rituals.

The tumultuous events began on the night of December 10 when the young couple, 24-year-old Ashok and 18-year-old Priyanka, vanished, prompting concerned relatives to storm the boy's house. In a fit of rage, they ransacked the premises and subjected the boy's mother to a vicious beating.

The woman was subsequently tied to an electricity pole in front of her house, partially stripped and paraded around.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-breach-all-accused-wanted-to-create-anarchy-in-country-police-tell-court-670164">Parliament breach: All accused wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in country, police tell court</a>

Local authorities were alerted by a vigilant villager, leading officers from the Kakati police station to intervene promptly.

The police successfully rescued the victim and arrested eight individuals. The accused include Gangavva, Sangeeta, and Kempanna. In the aftermath of the brutal crime, a case has now been registered against the accused people. The police authorities are still looking for eight more individuals for their involvement in the case.

<h2>Victim in hospital&nbsp;</h2>

Expressing deep concern over the incident, Minister for Women and Child Welfare Lakshmi Hebbalkar visited the victim, currently in the district hospital.

The distressing scene at the hospital saw the victim's relatives falling at the minister's feet, beseeching justice for the traumatised woman.

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The victim's husband, Lagamanna, a truck driver who was away on duty when she was attacked, emphasised the need for stringent punishment for the accused.

Seeking justice, he stated, "The trial should be conducted in a fair manner, and the accused should get a life sentence."

Lagamanna said he was not aware of his son's relationship with the girl, asserting that had they known, they would have attempted to resolve the matter amicably.

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Home Minister G. Parameshwara has directed the Belagavi police commissioner to take severe action against the perpetrators. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced his condemnation on social media, vowing justice for the victim and her family.

<h2>Union minister hits at Congress govt in Karnataka</h2>

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the Congress government in Karnataka, citing the incident as another instance of atrocities against the downtrodden.

She took to X&nbsp;social media platform, stating, there is no justice "for the SCs and STs. The recent incident in Belgavi, Karnataka falls in the same category as those repeated atrocities against the Dalits seen till recently in Congress-ruled Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. For Congress, the downtrodden are just a vote bank."&nbsp;

Karnataka High Court chastised state police and state government for failing to avoid the tragedy. It also directed the state government to submit an additional status report on whether proper counseling was provided to the victim, and the reason why other accused people have not yet been nabbed.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking incident in Vantamuri village, Belagavi district in the state of Karnataka in south India, a woman fell victim to a brutal assault on December 11, when she was brutally thrashed, tied to an electricity pole, and paraded partially stripped.

In a shocking incident in Vantamuri village, Belagavi district in the state of Karnataka in south India, a woman fell victim to a brutal assault on December 11, when she was brutally thrashed, tied to an electricity pole, and paraded partially stripped. The attack was allegedly orchestrated as retribution after her son eloped with a girl from the village on the day of her engagement, disrupting the scheduled rituals. The tumultuous events began on the night of December 10 when the young couple, 24-year-old Ashok and 18-year-old Priyanka, vanished, prompting concerned relatives to storm the boy's house. In a fit of rage, they ransacked the premises and subjected the boy's mother to a vicious beating. The woman was subsequently tied to an electricity pole in front of her house, partially stripped and paraded around. Also Read | Parliament breach: All accused wanted to create ‘anarchy’ in country, police tell court Local authorities were alerted by a vigilant villager, leading officers from the Kakati police station to intervene promptly. The police successfully rescued the victim and arrested eight individuals. The accused include Gangavva, Sangeeta, and Kempanna. In the aftermath of the brutal crime, a case has now been registered against the accused people. The police authorities are still looking for eight more individuals for their involvement in the case. Victim in hospital Expressing deep concern over the incident, Minister for Women and Child Welfare Lakshmi Hebbalkar visited the victim, currently in the district hospital. The distressing scene at the hospital saw the victim's relatives falling at the minister's feet, beseeching justice for the traumatised woman. Also Read | ‘Investigate Pannun plot or…’, USA's 'Samosa Caucas' issues warning to India The victim's husband, Lagamanna, a truck driver who was away on duty when she was attacked, emphasised the need for stringent punishment for the accused. Seeking justice, he stated, "The trial should be conducted in a fair manner, and the accused should get a life sentence." Lagamanna said he was not aware of his son's relationship with the girl, asserting that had they known, they would have attempted to resolve the matter amicably. Watch | ISRO to take on multiple missions, ISRO to put a space station in orbit by 2028 × Home Minister G. Parameshwara has directed the Belagavi police commissioner to take severe action against the perpetrators. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced his condemnation on social media, vowing justice for the victim and her family. Union minister hits at Congress govt in Karnataka Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the Congress government in Karnataka, citing the incident as another instance of atrocities against the downtrodden. She took to X social media platform, stating, there is no justice "for the SCs and STs. The recent incident in Belgavi, Karnataka falls in the same category as those repeated atrocities against the Dalits seen till recently in Congress-ruled Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. For Congress, the downtrodden are just a vote bank." Karnataka High Court chastised state police and state government for failing to avoid the tragedy. It also directed the state government to submit an additional status report on whether proper counseling was provided to the victim, and the reason why other accused people have not yet been nabbed. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Belagavi assault case: Woman paraded naked as son elopes with girl disrupting her engagement

How have foreign countries responded to the Supreme Court’s verdict on Article 370 on Jammu and Kashmir? Foreign affairs expert, C Rajamohan explains on The India Story

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Article 370: 'We need to make political compact right for Jammu & Kashmir'

Earlier, this week, the reworked criminal law bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha, just a few days after the government withdrew them. What are the key changes in the bills? Vikram Chandra analyses key aspects of the bills with Sujeet Kumar, MP, BJD & Member of Standing Committee on Home Affairs, Pinky Anand, Former Additional Solicitor General of India, and Dr M R Madhavan, President, PRS Legislative Research.

Major security breach in Parliament | Major changes in Criminal Reform Bill

On his first visit to India as the top leader, Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in diverse areas.

Oman Sultan visit | Indian foreign secretary: A possibility of rupee trade with Oman

In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended.&nbsp;This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders.&nbsp;

<h2>Kenya's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean?</h2>

Kenya's&nbsp;Maasai Mara National Reserve is a popular tourist destination among Indians.

It is one of the most coveted wildlife destinations in Kenya and Africa, and a premier conservation area. It is also one of the few places on earth where wild animals and their ecosystem exist in a highly protected environment.

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A visa-free travel to Kenya may set the ball rolling for more number of Indian tourists in the country.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean?</h2>

About 15 per cent of all Muslims in India belong to the Shiite sect, and a visa free travel to&nbsp;Iran would&nbsp;boost the prospect of religious tourism into the West Asian country from India. Iran also holds significance as the birthplace of Zoroastrian faith.

While the number of Indians owing allegiance to this faith are&nbsp;few,&nbsp;a visa-free travel to Iran means easy access to&nbsp;the most important holy places in Iran for Zoroastrians&nbsp;in Yazd province.

<h2>Visa free travel for Indians: Where all can Indians travel without visa?</h2>

This news follows recent announcements from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia, which have also granted visa-free entry to Indian passport holders.

Also watch |&nbsp;China visa-free initiative: China's visa-waiver sparks surge in European tourist numbers | WION

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According to the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indians can now travel to 57 countries without visa hassles, encompassing destinations with visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The expanded list reflects a positive trend in facilitating global travel for Indian citizens.

<h2>Full list of countries with visa free/on arrival for Indian passport holders</h2>

Full list of countries that either offer visa free or visa on arrival facility for Indian passport holders is as following:

Albania, Barbados, Bolivia, Botswana, Burundi, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Grenada, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Macao (SAR China), Micronesia, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, Oman, Palau Islands, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, &nbsp;Senegal, Somalia, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Togo, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended. This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders.

In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended. This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders. Kenya's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean? Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve is a popular tourist destination among Indians. It is one of the most coveted wildlife destinations in Kenya and Africa, and a premier conservation area. It is also one of the few places on earth where wild animals and their ecosystem exist in a highly protected environment. Also read | Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India A visa-free travel to Kenya may set the ball rolling for more number of Indian tourists in the country. Iran's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean? About 15 per cent of all Muslims in India belong to the Shiite sect, and a visa free travel to Iran would boost the prospect of religious tourism into the West Asian country from India. Iran also holds significance as the birthplace of Zoroastrian faith. While the number of Indians owing allegiance to this faith are few, a visa-free travel to Iran means easy access to the most important holy places in Iran for Zoroastrians in Yazd province. Visa free travel for Indians: Where all can Indians travel without visa? This news follows recent announcements from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia, which have also granted visa-free entry to Indian passport holders. Also watch | China visa-free initiative: China's visa-waiver sparks surge in European tourist numbers | WION × According to the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indians can now travel to 57 countries without visa hassles, encompassing destinations with visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The expanded list reflects a positive trend in facilitating global travel for Indian citizens. Full list of countries with visa free/on arrival for Indian passport holders Full list of countries that either offer visa free or visa on arrival facility for Indian passport holders is as following: Albania, Barbados, Bolivia, Botswana, Burundi, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Grenada, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Macao (SAR China), Micronesia, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, Oman, Palau Islands, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Somalia, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Togo, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe. (With inputs from agencies)

With 'visa-free' travel, Indians can now add Kenya's Maasai Mara to their bucket list

We delve into the heart of the world's diamond industry as g7 countries announce a ban on russian gems. India, home to 90% of the global diamond cutting and polishing sector, expects little disruption. That’s because it predominantly processes smaller russian diamonds, cushioning the blow of the upcoming restrictions.

India's diamond dominance eases blow from G7 restrictions on Russia| World Business Watch

52 years ago on December 16, India witnessed its greatest military triumph after it crushed Pakistan. Bangladesh was liberated. What was Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw widely known as Sam Bahadur's Gameplan? How did The 1971 war change the geopolitical landscape of South Asia? Revisit some key moments of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War.

1971 War: How India crushed Pakistan and liberated Bangladesh

Vish Dhamija is a British Indian crime-fiction writer. In an exclusive conversation with WION's Samarpita Das, the author shares with us, how he started his journey as an author and why he feels India's capital Delhi is more developed than London.

Vish Dhamija shares how Delhi is more developed than London

President Murmu and PM Modi give ceremonial welcome to Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik

The Red Fort in Delhi hosted the inaugural India Art, Architecture and Design Biennale (IAADB). "The invisible edges between reality and fiction, memory and design, and past and present" are acknowledged here. The public can access IAADB, which is organized by the Ministry of Culture, from December 9 to December 15. In addition to an art mart, the event will feature speeches by architects and designers from India and beyond, panel discussions, and workshops.

Inside the inaugural Indian Art, Architecture & Design Biennale 2023

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman was welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon arrival at Hyderabad House.

Indian President and Prime Minister welcome Omani leader

The government reported in the Lok Sabha on Friday that twenty-eight Indian students were deported from the United States to India this year. According to V Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, the US authorities have been notified on a regular basis of the government's concerns on these kinds of incidents.

28 Indian students deported from US in 2023: Centre tells Lok Sabha

The Union and Manipur government on Thursday (Dec 14) handed at least 64 bodies of victims killed in the ongoing ethnic violence in the northeastern state to their families. The bodies were airlifted from morgues in the hospitals located in the capital city of Imphal and delivered to two hill districts.&nbsp;

The delivery of bodies ends months of speculation and possibly brings closure to the families of the victims. According to reports, the bodies were at the&nbsp;Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) and the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS).

The transfer of the bodies took place after the Supreme Court last month issued an order for the dignified disposal of the unclaimed bodies.&nbsp;

Since the violence first broke out in the state in May, 175 deaths have been reported and the dead bodies were brought to the morgues. 81 bodies were claimed previously while 94 remained. Out of these bodies, 88 were identified but families were unable to travel to the morgues to claim the bodies due to the prevailing tense situation.&nbsp;

“No decision has been taken yet on the date and place of burials for those bodies brought to Churachandpur. The last rites will most probably be held next week,” Ginza Vualzong from Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a Kuki organisation based in Churachandpur, was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-violence-who-is-accountable-618265">Watch |&nbsp;Manipur violence: Who is accountable?</a>&nbsp;

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<h2>What is happening in Manipur?</h2>

Manipur has been rocked by ethnic violence since May. Hundreds&nbsp;have been killed while tens of thousands have been displaced. The violence started after a court ordered the state government to consider extending special economic benefits and quotas in government jobs and education enjoyed by the tribal Kuki people to the majority Meitei population as well.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Meanwhile, Nagas and Kukis&nbsp;constitute little over 40 per cent and reside in the hill districts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fresh-bout-of-violence-rocks-manipur-popular-tribal-songwriter-among-6-killed-631104">Also read |&nbsp;India: Fresh bout of violence rocks Manipur, popular tribal songwriter among 6 killed</a>

What started with street protests spiralled into an armed conflict. The Narendra Modi-led central government even faced a 'no-trust motion' in the parliament, brought by the newly-minted opposition bloc called INDIA, for failing to address the situation in the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Union and Manipur government on Thursday (Dec 14) handed at least 64 bodies of victims killed in the ongoing ethnic violence in the northeastern state to their families.

The Union and Manipur government on Thursday (Dec 14) handed at least 64 bodies of victims killed in the ongoing ethnic violence in the northeastern state to their families. The bodies were airlifted from morgues in the hospitals located in the capital city of Imphal and delivered to two hill districts. The delivery of bodies ends months of speculation and possibly brings closure to the families of the victims. According to reports, the bodies were at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) and the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). The transfer of the bodies took place after the Supreme Court last month issued an order for the dignified disposal of the unclaimed bodies. Since the violence first broke out in the state in May, 175 deaths have been reported and the dead bodies were brought to the morgues. 81 bodies were claimed previously while 94 remained. Out of these bodies, 88 were identified but families were unable to travel to the morgues to claim the bodies due to the prevailing tense situation. “No decision has been taken yet on the date and place of burials for those bodies brought to Churachandpur. The last rites will most probably be held next week,” Ginza Vualzong from Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a Kuki organisation based in Churachandpur, was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. Watch | Manipur violence: Who is accountable? What is happening in Manipur? Manipur has been rocked by ethnic violence since May. Hundreds have been killed while tens of thousands have been displaced. The violence started after a court ordered the state government to consider extending special economic benefits and quotas in government jobs and education enjoyed by the tribal Kuki people to the majority Meitei population as well. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur’s population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Meanwhile, Nagas and Kukis constitute little over 40 per cent and reside in the hill districts. Also read | India: Fresh bout of violence rocks Manipur, popular tribal songwriter among 6 killed What started with street protests spiralled into an armed conflict. The Narendra Modi-led central government even faced a 'no-trust motion' in the parliament, brought by the newly-minted opposition bloc called INDIA, for failing to address the situation in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bodies of 64 killed in Manipur violence handed to families

As India-Maldives relations experience further strain following the demand for troop withdrawal, the Maldivian government led by President Mohamed Muizzu&nbsp;has chosen to terminate the hydrographic survey agreement with India. The announcement comes merely a month after President Muizzu requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, aligning with his 'India Out' campaign platform.

The hydrographic survey agreement, inked on June 8, 2019, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Maldives, permitted India to conduct a comprehensive study of the island nation's territorial waters, encompassing reefs, lagoons, coastlines, ocean currents, and tide levels.

The third Joint Hydrographic survey by the Indian Navy and the MNDF was carried out by the Indian Naval Ship Investigator (INS Investigator) from January 19 to February 26, 2023. The ship surveyed Northern Maldives covering Ihavandhippolhu and Thiladhanmatee atolls and Gallandhu Kandu.

As per an official release, the first Joint Hydrographic survey was carried out by INS Darshak in February/March 2021 and the second joint survey was carried out by INS Sutlej in April/ May 2022.

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Regarding the termination of the deal, Mohamed Firuzul Abdul Khaleel, Undersecretary for Public Policy at the Maldives President’s Office, announced the decision at a press conference, stating that the government opted not to renew the hydrography agreement set to expire on June 7, 2024.

He said that India has been officially informed of the Maldives' decision, adhering to the agreement's stipulated terms.

Firuzul explained, "According to the terms of this agreement, if one party wishes to drop the agreement, the other party must be informed of the decision six months before the agreement is set to expire. According to the terms, the agreement automatically renews for an additional five years, otherwise."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sikh-driver-flees-to-india-after-being-convicted-for-smuggling-cocaine-669769">Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine</a>

Citing national security concerns, Firuzul noted that future hydrographic surveys would be fully carried out by Maldivians, restricting access to "sensitive" information. He dubbed the move as "best for national security."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-parliament-security-breach-who-was-behind-it-669797">Gravitas | Indian Parliament Security breach: Who was behind it?</a>

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Earlier this month, President Muizzu had announced the withdrawal of Indian soldiers from the Maldives, with both nations establishing a core group to discuss the continued usage of Indian military platforms in the island nation.

This move followed discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu in Dubai, covering various aspects of bilateral cooperation, development, economy, and climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

As India-Maldives relations experience further strain following the demand for troop withdrawal, the Maldivian government led by President Mohamed Muizzu has chosen to terminate the hydrographic survey agreement with India.

As India-Maldives relations experience further strain following the demand for troop withdrawal, the Maldivian government led by President Mohamed Muizzu has chosen to terminate the hydrographic survey agreement with India. The announcement comes merely a month after President Muizzu requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, aligning with his 'India Out' campaign platform. The hydrographic survey agreement, inked on June 8, 2019, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Maldives, permitted India to conduct a comprehensive study of the island nation's territorial waters, encompassing reefs, lagoons, coastlines, ocean currents, and tide levels. The third Joint Hydrographic survey by the Indian Navy and the MNDF was carried out by the Indian Naval Ship Investigator (INS Investigator) from January 19 to February 26, 2023. The ship surveyed Northern Maldives covering Ihavandhippolhu and Thiladhanmatee atolls and Gallandhu Kandu. As per an official release, the first Joint Hydrographic survey was carried out by INS Darshak in February/March 2021 and the second joint survey was carried out by INS Sutlej in April/ May 2022. Also Read | India's Uma Sekhar triumphs over US, Russia, China candidates in UNIDROIT election Regarding the termination of the deal, Mohamed Firuzul Abdul Khaleel, Undersecretary for Public Policy at the Maldives President’s Office, announced the decision at a press conference, stating that the government opted not to renew the hydrography agreement set to expire on June 7, 2024. He said that India has been officially informed of the Maldives' decision, adhering to the agreement's stipulated terms. Firuzul explained, "According to the terms of this agreement, if one party wishes to drop the agreement, the other party must be informed of the decision six months before the agreement is set to expire. According to the terms, the agreement automatically renews for an additional five years, otherwise." Also Read | Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine Citing national security concerns, Firuzul noted that future hydrographic surveys would be fully carried out by Maldivians, restricting access to "sensitive" information. He dubbed the move as "best for national security." Watch | Gravitas | Indian Parliament Security breach: Who was behind it? × Earlier this month, President Muizzu had announced the withdrawal of Indian soldiers from the Maldives, with both nations establishing a core group to discuss the continued usage of Indian military platforms in the island nation. This move followed discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu in Dubai, covering various aspects of bilateral cooperation, development, economy, and climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives govt scraps hydrographic survey agreement with India

Indian benchmark indexes reached unprecedented levels on Thursday, riding the wave of a global rally fuelled by fresh indications from the U.S. Federal Reserve, Reuters reported.<o:p></o:p>

The NSE Nifty 50 index rose by 1.23 per cent to reach 21,182.70, while the S&amp;P BSE Sensex advanced 1.34 per cent to 70,514.20. This surge marks a historic achievement for the Nifty, which has set a record high in eight out of the ten sessions this month, reflecting a 5.21 per cent gain, nearly matching the 5.52 per cent increase seen throughout the previous month. <o:p></o:p>

The U.S. Federal Reserve's acknowledgement of "real progress" in easing inflation, coupled with expectations of a rate cut in March 2024, has further propelled the Indian markets.<o:p></o:p>

Chair Jerome Powell's statement, acknowledging the risks of delaying rate cuts, has contributed to optimistic sentiments in the Indian market. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Parth Nyati, the founder of online trading platform Tradingo, who attributed the bullish momentum to factors such as "hopes of political stability in 2024, a robust macroeconomic backdrop, the weakening dollar, and U.S. bond yields amid expectations of a 2024 U.S. rate cut". Information technology (IT) stocks, heavily reliant on revenue from the United States, experienced a notable surge of 3.50 per cent, marking their best session in five months.<o:p></o:p>

The financial sector also witnessed gains, with banks and financials each recording a rise of about 1.35 per cent. The realty index rallied by 3.88 per cent, achieving a new record high. This surge is attributed to robust housing sales and a positive demand outlook in the real estate sector. <o:p></o:p>

The small- and mid-cap indexes added 0.85 per cent and 1.31 per cent, respectively, bringing their total gains in 2023 to 52 per cent and 45 per cent, outpacing the Nifty 50's 17 per cent rise. <o:p></o:p>

As mid- and small-cap valuations reach levels last seen in 2018, Harsha Upadhyaya, Chief Investment Officer of Equity at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management, suggests a prudent adjustment of allocations in favour of large-caps.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

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Indian benchmark indexes reached unprecedented levels on Thursday, riding the wave of a global rally fuelled by fresh indications from the U.S. Federal Reserve, Reuters reported.

Indian benchmark indexes reached unprecedented levels on Thursday, riding the wave of a global rally fuelled by fresh indications from the U.S. Federal Reserve, Reuters reported. The NSE Nifty 50 index rose by 1.23 per cent to reach 21,182.70, while the S&P BSE Sensex advanced 1.34 per cent to 70,514.20. This surge marks a historic achievement for the Nifty, which has set a record high in eight out of the ten sessions this month, reflecting a 5.21 per cent gain, nearly matching the 5.52 per cent increase seen throughout the previous month. The U.S. Federal Reserve's acknowledgement of "real progress" in easing inflation, coupled with expectations of a rate cut in March 2024, has further propelled the Indian markets. Chair Jerome Powell's statement, acknowledging the risks of delaying rate cuts, has contributed to optimistic sentiments in the Indian market. Reuters cited Parth Nyati, the founder of online trading platform Tradingo, who attributed the bullish momentum to factors such as "hopes of political stability in 2024, a robust macroeconomic backdrop, the weakening dollar, and U.S. bond yields amid expectations of a 2024 U.S. rate cut". Information technology (IT) stocks, heavily reliant on revenue from the United States, experienced a notable surge of 3.50 per cent, marking their best session in five months. The financial sector also witnessed gains, with banks and financials each recording a rise of about 1.35 per cent. The realty index rallied by 3.88 per cent, achieving a new record high. This surge is attributed to robust housing sales and a positive demand outlook in the real estate sector. The small- and mid-cap indexes added 0.85 per cent and 1.31 per cent, respectively, bringing their total gains in 2023 to 52 per cent and 45 per cent, outpacing the Nifty 50's 17 per cent rise. As mid- and small-cap valuations reach levels last seen in 2018, Harsha Upadhyaya, Chief Investment Officer of Equity at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management, suggests a prudent adjustment of allocations in favour of large-caps. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian markets surge to record highs as Federal Reserve boosts rate cut expectations

Was the Indian parliament security breach a message from the youth or part of a wider conspiracy? Here's what Molly Gambhir has to say.

Gravitas | Indian Parliament Security breach: Who was behind it?

Iran said on Thursday (Dec 14) that it was lifting visa requirements for 33 countries, including India and Saudi Arabia. According to the ISNA news agency, the Iranian Ministry of Tourism believed that an open-door policy would showcase Iran's determination to engage with different countries of the world.

Iran said on Thursday (Dec 14) that it was lifting visa requirements for 33 countries, including India and Saudi Arabia. According to the ISNA news agency, the Iranian Ministry of Tourism believed that an open-door policy would showcase Iran's determination to engage with different countries of the world. The decision would increase to 45 the number of countries or territories whose citizens can visit Iran without needing to obtain a visa, ISNA said. Which countries will be allowed to travel visa-free? As per the news agency, Iran's visa requirement has been lifted for 33 countries including Lebanon, Tunisia, India, Saudi Arabia, and several Central Asian, African, and Muslim countries. Only one Western-allied European nation was on the list, Croatia, a small member of the European Union and NATO. Tehran's decision is another step towards thawing relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, in particular after years of tension between the two oil-producing Gulf rivals. The news agency further reported that nationals of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar were included in the decision to waive visa requirements, in addition to Bahrain, with whom Tehran has not yet re-established full ties. "Russians will only profit from this visa exemption if they are visiting the country in groups," the news agency said. Omani nationals had been able to travel to Iran visa-free before this announcement. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran lifts visa requirement for 33 countries, including India, Saudi Arabia

In a significant diplomatic shift, the Maldives, led by its new president mohamed muizzu, has decided not to renew the hydrographic survey agreement with india. This comes merely a month after urging india to withdraw its military personnel from the region. The now-shelved survey is a cooperation between the Indian Navy and Maldives national defence force in the field of hydrology.

After troop removal demand, Maldives ends hydrology pact with India

Data from one of India's food-delivery apps has revealed that Biriyani was the country's most-ordered food for the eighth straight year. Indians ordered 2.5 plates of biriyani every second in 2023. We bring you India's love story with Biriyani.

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The newly elected president of Maldives, Mohammed Muizzu, has taken yet another step to undermine ties with India. After calling for the removal of Indian troops, Maldives has now decided to end the hydrology pact with India.

Gravitas | Muizzu's move signals pro-China pivot | Maldives ends Hydrology Deal with India

An undertrial prisoner Abhishek Kumar, also popular as Chote Sarkar, was shot and killed on Friday (Dec 15) by two assailants in the north Indian state of Bihar.&nbsp;

Kumar who was an inmate of Beur Central Jail in Patna, was brought in by the police in Patna's Danapur court when the incident happened.&nbsp;

Taking to social media platform X, the Patna district police said, "Abhishek Singh alias Chote Sarkar was attacked by two armed assailants in Danapur court premises on Friday when he was being escorted to a trial court from the lock-up. Both the assailants, who tried to escape, were caught by the police."&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/video-nepalese-man-tries-to-slap-ex-pm-kp-sharma-oli-during-campaign-arrested-670043">Nepalese man tries to slap ex-PM KP Sharma Oli during campaign, arrested</a>&nbsp;

City Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Kumar confirmed the death of Abhishek Kumar and also added that the police swiftly arrested the two assailants.&nbsp;

The motive behind the attack was not revealed immediately, and an investigation has been launched. Police are also looking at whether or not there were any additional accomplices.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Assailants shot dead an undertrial prisoner brought by police to Patna's Danapur court today. Two accused arrested <a href="https://t.co/WLoMVmSqJh">pic.twitter.com/WLoMVmSqJh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1735596448413331745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blindfolded-acrobat-falls-from-giant-wheel-of-death-sustained-serious-injuries-670026">'Blindfolded' acrobat falls from 'Giant Wheel of Death', sustained serious injuries</a>&nbsp;

Police also mentioned that Singh has a number of criminal cases registered against him, including ones for murder and extortion.&nbsp;

The officer said, "The accused are being interrogated by the investigators to ascertain their motive."&nbsp;

"A case has also been registered against them and further investigation is on," the officer further said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An undertrial prisoner Abhishek Kumar, also popular as Chote Sarkar, was shot and killed on Friday (Dec 15) by two assailants in the north Indian state of Bihar.

An undertrial prisoner Abhishek Kumar, also popular as Chote Sarkar, was shot and killed on Friday (Dec 15) by two assailants in the north Indian state of Bihar. Kumar who was an inmate of Beur Central Jail in Patna, was brought in by the police in Patna's Danapur court when the incident happened. Taking to social media platform X, the Patna district police said, "Abhishek Singh alias Chote Sarkar was attacked by two armed assailants in Danapur court premises on Friday when he was being escorted to a trial court from the lock-up. Both the assailants, who tried to escape, were caught by the police." Also read: Nepalese man tries to slap ex-PM KP Sharma Oli during campaign, arrested City Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Kumar confirmed the death of Abhishek Kumar and also added that the police swiftly arrested the two assailants. The motive behind the attack was not revealed immediately, and an investigation has been launched. Police are also looking at whether or not there were any additional accomplices. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Assailants shot dead an undertrial prisoner brought by police to Patna's Danapur court today. Two accused arrested pic.twitter.com/WLoMVmSqJh — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2023 × Also read: 'Blindfolded' acrobat falls from 'Giant Wheel of Death', sustained serious injuries Police also mentioned that Singh has a number of criminal cases registered against him, including ones for murder and extortion. The officer said, "The accused are being interrogated by the investigators to ascertain their motive." "A case has also been registered against them and further investigation is on," the officer further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Two gunmen kill undertrial prisoner on court premises in India

Earlier, this week, the reworked criminal law bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha, just a few days after the government withdrew them. What are the key changes in the bills? Vikram Chandra analyses key aspects of the bills with Sujeet Kumar, MP, BJD & Member of Standing Committee on Home Affairs.

Criminal Reform Bill 2.0: Bills to replace British-era criminal laws

Eight months since ethnic clashes shook India's northeastern state of Manipur. The bodies of 64 victims have been returned to their loved ones.

Manipur: 64 bodies of victims returned; 8 months on, victims' bodies returned to kin | World DNA

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