<p>In a report released by Reporters Without Borders, an organisation&nbsp;that assesses the conditions for journalism worldwide, it was found that press freedom in India has deteriorated from "problematic" to "very bad," with the nation&nbsp;falling 11 positions&nbsp;in the World Press Freedom Index.</p>

<p>In three countries—Tajikistan, India, and Turkey—the situation has deteriorated from "problematic" to "very bad," according to the report, which expressed worry. Tajikistan dropped one spot to 153, India fell 11 spots to 161 compared to 150 in 2022, and Turkey dropped 16 spots to 165.</p>

<p>“The situation has gone from ‘problematic’ to ‘very bad’ in three countries: Tajikistan (down by one at 153rd), India (down by 11 at 161st) and Turkey (down by 16 at 165th),” the report said.</p>

<p>Information and Broadcasting&nbsp;Minister Anurag Thakur stated in a written response to a question in Parliament in March that the Indian government disagrees with the World Press Freedom Index's country rankings, according to the Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The administration, he continued, also disagrees with the conclusions drawn by the index due to the index's small sample size, lack of or little weight given to democratic principles, and questionable methodology.</p>

<p>The relative rankings of some nations, such as Afghanistan coming in at 152nd and Pakistan moving up seven spots to 150, raised some concerns about the approach.</p>

<p>After hearing of the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, Congressman Shashi Tharoor tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Time for all of us to hang our heads in shame: India slips in World Press Freedom Index, ranks 161 out of 180 countries <a href="https://t.co/fsHM0cmq9o">https://t.co/fsHM0cmq9o</a></p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1653735846359490561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Time for all of us to hang our heads in shame: India slips in World Press Freedom Index, ranks 161 out of 180 countries, Tharoor tweeted</p>

<p>Raising concern over India's drop&nbsp;in the index, media associations - The Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Club of India, and the Press Association,&nbsp;released a joint statement.</p>

<p>"The indices of press freedom have worsened in several countries, including India, according to the latest RSF report," the joint statement said.</p>

<p>"For developing democracies in the Global South where deep pockets of inequities exist, the media's role cannot be understated. Likewise, the constraints on press freedom due to hostile working conditions like contractorization have to also be challenged. Insecure working conditions can never contribute to a free press," the statement added.</p>

<p>Concerns regarding oligarchs acquiring media companies were also voiced by Reporters Without Borders. According to the study, "The other phenomenon that dangerously restricts the free flow of information is the acquisition of media outlets by oligarchs who maintain close ties with political leaders."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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In a report released by Reporters Without Borders, an organisation that assesses the conditions for journalism worldwide, it was found that press freedom in India has deteriorated from "problematic" to "very bad," with the nation falling 11 positions in the World Press Freedom Index.

In a report released by Reporters Without Borders, an organisation that assesses the conditions for journalism worldwide, it was found that press freedom in India has deteriorated from "problematic" to "very bad," with the nation falling 11 positions in the World Press Freedom Index. In three countries—Tajikistan, India, and Turkey—the situation has deteriorated from "problematic" to "very bad," according to the report, which expressed worry. Tajikistan dropped one spot to 153, India fell 11 spots to 161 compared to 150 in 2022, and Turkey dropped 16 spots to 165. “The situation has gone from ‘problematic’ to ‘very bad’ in three countries: Tajikistan (down by one at 153rd), India (down by 11 at 161st) and Turkey (down by 16 at 165th),” the report said. Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur stated in a written response to a question in Parliament in March that the Indian government disagrees with the World Press Freedom Index's country rankings, according to the Hindustan Times. The administration, he continued, also disagrees with the conclusions drawn by the index due to the index's small sample size, lack of or little weight given to democratic principles, and questionable methodology. The relative rankings of some nations, such as Afghanistan coming in at 152nd and Pakistan moving up seven spots to 150, raised some concerns about the approach. After hearing of the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, Congressman Shashi Tharoor tweeted. Time for all of us to hang our heads in shame: India slips in World Press Freedom Index, ranks 161 out of 180 countries https://t.co/fsHM0cmq9o — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 3, 2023 × “Time for all of us to hang our heads in shame: India slips in World Press Freedom Index, ranks 161 out of 180 countries, Tharoor tweeted Raising concern over India's drop in the index, media associations - The Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Club of India, and the Press Association, released a joint statement. "The indices of press freedom have worsened in several countries, including India, according to the latest RSF report," the joint statement said. "For developing democracies in the Global South where deep pockets of inequities exist, the media's role cannot be understated. Likewise, the constraints on press freedom due to hostile working conditions like contractorization have to also be challenged. Insecure working conditions can never contribute to a free press," the statement added. Concerns regarding oligarchs acquiring media companies were also voiced by Reporters Without Borders. According to the study, "The other phenomenon that dangerously restricts the free flow of information is the acquisition of media outlets by oligarchs who maintain close ties with political leaders." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Press Freedom Index: India slips 11 positions, govt raises doubts

<p>Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, a joint cordon and search operation was launched in Wanigam Payeen, Kreeri area of Baramulla by the police, Army (29RR) and SSB (2nd Bn).&nbsp;During the search operation, as the joint search party approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. The&nbsp;joint search party retaliated, leading to an encounter.</p>

<p>“In the ensuing encounter, two&nbsp;local terrorists linked with proscribed terrorist outfit LeT were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of the encounter. They have been identified as Shakir Majid Najar and Hanan Ahmad Seh, both residents of Shopian,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per police records, both the killed terrorists had recently joined terrorist ranks and were planning to carry out a terrorist attack in the area, which was timely neutralised.</p>

<p>“Incriminating materials, arms &amp; ammunition including one AK-47 rifle and one pistol were recovered from the site of the encounter. All the recovered materials have been taken into case records for further investigation,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ADGP Kashmir congratulated the joint team of police and security forces for conducting a successful operation without any collateral damage and termed it a big success as the killed terrorists were planning to carry out terrorist attacks in the area.</p>

<p>This is the second operation in the last 24 hours in the Kashmir Valley. Four&nbsp;terrorists have been killed in these two operations in the Valley ahead of the G20 meet to be held in Srinagar. The union territory has been put on high alert.&nbsp;</p>

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Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad.

Two terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit were killed in an encounter in the Kreeri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Both the terrorists are locals and have been identified as Shakir Majid and Hanan Ahmad. According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, a joint cordon and search operation was launched in Wanigam Payeen, Kreeri area of Baramulla by the police, Army (29RR) and SSB (2nd Bn). During the search operation, as the joint search party approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. The joint search party retaliated, leading to an encounter. “In the ensuing encounter, two local terrorists linked with proscribed terrorist outfit LeT were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of the encounter. They have been identified as Shakir Majid Najar and Hanan Ahmad Seh, both residents of Shopian,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police. As per police records, both the killed terrorists had recently joined terrorist ranks and were planning to carry out a terrorist attack in the area, which was timely neutralised. “Incriminating materials, arms & ammunition including one AK-47 rifle and one pistol were recovered from the site of the encounter. All the recovered materials have been taken into case records for further investigation,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police. ADGP Kashmir congratulated the joint team of police and security forces for conducting a successful operation without any collateral damage and termed it a big success as the killed terrorists were planning to carry out terrorist attacks in the area. This is the second operation in the last 24 hours in the Kashmir Valley. Four terrorists have been killed in these two operations in the Valley ahead of the G20 meet to be held in Srinagar. The union territory has been put on high alert. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 2 terrorists killed in Baramulla encounter, second operation in 24 hours

The Indian PM Narendra Modi was subjected to another incident of 'Security Breach'. A mobile phone was thrown at PM Narendra Modi’s vehicle on April 30. The incident happened during PM Modi’s mega roadshow in the poll-bound Karnataka's Mysuru. Police have located the person who threw the phone on the vehicle.

Security breach at Indian PM Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, mobile phone thrown at his convoy

<p>Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday shared a video message ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) bilateral meetings scheduled for the day in Goa. In the brief clip shared on his Twitter account, the Pakistan minister spoke about his plans in India and Pakistan's stance on the gathering of this key multilateral forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main agenda for the SCO forum, since its formation, has been to combat terrorism and promote peace in the region. India on many forums has rebuked Pakistan for its state-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In&nbsp;the video, Bilawal was seen saying that Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum and the country takes it in all its seriousness.&nbsp;The Pakistan minister added that he is looking forward to holding talks with the members of the SCO grouping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On my way to Goa, India. Will be leading the Pakistan delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization CFM. My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO. During my visit, which is focused exclusively on the SCO, I look forward to constructive discussions with my counterparts from friendly countries," Zardari tweeted ahead of his arrival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-leader-says-ukraine-counter-offensive-has-begun-death-toll-from-kherson-shelling-rises-to-21-588678">Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21</a></p>

<p>India is the chair of SCO for 2023 and in alignment with its commitment to work together with all the nations in the region, New Delhi had extended its invitation to Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On my way to Goa, India. Will be leading the Pakistan delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization CFM. My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO.<br />
<br />
During my visit, which is focused exclusively on the SCO, I look… <a href="https://t.co/cChUWj9okR">pic.twitter.com/cChUWj9okR</a></p>
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBhuttoZardari/status/1653998914712883200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bilawal Bhutto would be the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit India since 2011. As per reports, Islamabad said that he will not hold any meeting with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-14-killed-25-injured-after-road-accident-in-egypt-588676">At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports</a></p>

<p>The Pulwama attack severed India's already strained ties with Pakistan. India, in retaliation, gave a befitting response to Pakistan by attacking the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan in February 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Another blow to the relations was when India revoked Jammu and Kashmir's Article 370. Pakistan reacted by suspending trade relations with India.&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday shared a video message ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) bilateral meetings scheduled for the day in Goa.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday shared a video message ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) bilateral meetings scheduled for the day in Goa. In the brief clip shared on his Twitter account, the Pakistan minister spoke about his plans in India and Pakistan's stance on the gathering of this key multilateral forum. The main agenda for the SCO forum, since its formation, has been to combat terrorism and promote peace in the region. India on many forums has rebuked Pakistan for its state-sponsored terrorism. In the video, Bilawal was seen saying that Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum and the country takes it in all its seriousness. The Pakistan minister added that he is looking forward to holding talks with the members of the SCO grouping. "On my way to Goa, India. Will be leading the Pakistan delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization CFM. My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO. During my visit, which is focused exclusively on the SCO, I look forward to constructive discussions with my counterparts from friendly countries," Zardari tweeted ahead of his arrival. Also Read | Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21 India is the chair of SCO for 2023 and in alignment with its commitment to work together with all the nations in the region, New Delhi had extended its invitation to Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto. On my way to Goa, India. Will be leading the Pakistan delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization CFM. My decision to attend this meeting illustrates Pakistan’s strong commitment to the charter of SCO. During my visit, which is focused exclusively on the SCO, I look… pic.twitter.com/cChUWj9okR — BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) May 4, 2023 × Bilawal Bhutto would be the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit India since 2011. As per reports, Islamabad said that he will not hold any meeting with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar. Also Read | At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports The Pulwama attack severed India's already strained ties with Pakistan. India, in retaliation, gave a befitting response to Pakistan by attacking the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan in February 2019. Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION × Another blow to the relations was when India revoked Jammu and Kashmir's Article 370. Pakistan reacted by suspending trade relations with India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan is committed to the SCO forum, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will be the first Pakistani Foreign Minister in last 11 years to visit India. But there is no sign of Jaishankar-Bilawal bilateral talks. For more details, watch the video.

Bilawal Bhutto, the first Pakistani Foreign Minister to visit India in 11 years

When a brawl broke out between them and the police late on Wednesday night, the protest by prominent Indian wrestlers in New Delhi took a terrible turn. The wrestlers alleged that the cops assaulted them, injuring a few grapplers as a result.

India's Jantar Mantar Descends into Chaos: Wrestlers Clash with Police in Late-Night Scuffle

The phrase 'money don't grow on trees' has actually come true! A bizarre incident which took place in India's Karnataka - money was found on a tree during one of the raids conducted by the Income Tax Department. Watch the video to know more.

India: Money found hanging on mango tree in Karnataka during I-T raid | World News | WION

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Foreign Ministers are all set to meet in Goa. India is the chair of the grouping this year and is holding a number of ministerial meetings ahead of the summit this year. For details, watch the video.

SCO Foreign Ministers all set to meet in Goa

Pakistani Minister, Hina Rabbani Khar spoke to WION last week. She mentioned a few things about the 'New Delhi - Islamabad' ties and Bilawal's visit to India. For details, watch the video.

'Its not a bilateral tour, but a SCO visit' : Hina Rabbani

Western hypocrisy is at play again. This time, in an attempt to get Russian oil via a back door. How is Russian oil reaching Europe? How has Europe re-routed Russian oil? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India becomes Europe's largest exporter of refined oil

World's highest bridge will open to visitors in December this year. Chenab bridge is located in Kashmir over Chenab river and it is India's engineering marvel. What are its features? What are its benefits? How will it play a crucial role in the life of local inhabitants? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: World's highest railway bridge in Kashmir

Indian Navy ships are heading to the South China Sea. India is taking part in the inaugural edition of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) on 2 May. It will expand military cooperation between India & the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). For the first time, India is getting involved in exercises with ASEAN Organisation. AIME-2023 will consist of wargames which are going to take place in the South China Sea.

Why are Indian Navy warships heading to the South China Sea?

Due to a rise in human-animal conflict in the Indian state of Kerala, a killer elephant has been relocated from its natural habitat to a tiger reserve. This has led to a debate with many activists.

Wild elephant captured for raiding rice fields, killing people in India

2023 is a big year for both India and the US, we are not saying this but Washington's Secretary of State for South and Central Asia. Speaking to an Indian media organisation, Donald Liu said, "this is going to be a big year - India's hosting G20, the US is hosting APEC and Japan is hosting the G7."

A big year for India-US ties: US Pres Joe Biden to visit India in Sept for G20 summit

India has kicked off another engagement outreach in the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary are on a visit to two of India's key maritime neighbours - Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Maldives to kick off drill in Indian Ocean

The Supreme Court of India has passed a landmark verdict for couples seeking mutual divorce. It can now invoke special powers under article 142 of the constitution of India, to waive off the compulsory waiting period of 6 to 8 months in case of irretrievable breakdown of marriage, for individuals seeking divorce through mutual consent.

India: Article 142 to waive off divorce waiting period

India has become Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels this month, while simultaneously buying record amounts of Russian crude. According to data from analytics firm K-Pler, Europe's reliance on Indian crude oil products has grown since the ban on Russian oil. Europe's refined fuel imports from India are set to surge above 360,000 barrels a day, edging just ahead of those of Saudi.

India now Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels | Reliance on Indian crude oil products

Experts have been astounded by China's growth over the past few decades, but there is a new force driving global growth. India's young population, government policy, and consumer spending could offer several benefits.

Explained: Is India the best investment destination?

Relationship between one of the largest countries in the world and one of the smallest is quite cordial. India and Maldives are neighbours sharing a maritime border. Both nations share ethnic, linguistic, religious & commercial links steeped in antiquity. Maldives is one of India's key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean region. India is now handing over patrol vessels and landing craft to the Maldives as gifts.

Why is India handing over patrol vessels and landing craft to the Maldives as gifts?

<p>The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017.</p>

<p>According to the data released by Union Finance Ministry on Monday, the GST collected in April 2023 is up 12 per cent from last year. Compared to last month, the latest GST collections figure is up 16.8 per cent. In April last year, around Rs 1.68 trillion was collected.</p>

<p>Of the 1.87 trillion rupees collected, Rs 38.4 billion came from the central GST (CGST), the state GST contributed Rs. 47 billion, while the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) accounted for Rs 12 billion, including Rs 9 billion collected on import of goods.</p>

<p>The government has settled&nbsp;Rs 45.8 billion to CGST and Rs. 37.9 billion to SGST from IGST.</p>

<p>The total revenue of the Centre and the states in the month of April 2023 after the regular settlement is Rs. 84.3 billion for CGST and Rs. 85.3 billion for SGST.</p>

<p>“The revenues for the month of April 2023 are 12 per cent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year,” the ministry said.</p>

<p>April 2023 saw the highest-ever tax collection on a single day on April 20. A sum of Rs 68 billion crore was paid through 9,80,000 transactions on that day. The highest single-day payment last year (on the same date) was Rs 57 billion through 9,60,000 transactions.</p>

<p>The ministry said that the number of e-way bills generated in March 2023 was 90 million, which is 11 per cent higher than the 81 million e-way bills generated in February 2023.</p>

<p>Commenting on the GST numbers, Assocham President Ajay Singh said that the highest-ever collection in April marks an excellent beginning of fiscal 2023-24.</p>

<p>"The GST numbers are indicative of robust growth of the Indian economy, on the back of a strong pick-up in consumer demand," he said. Assocham is a non-governmental trade association and advocacy group.</p>

<p>GST came into force on July 1, 2017, subsuming a plethora of indirect taxes.</p>

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The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017.

The Indian government collected a record 1.87 trillion rupees ($22.88 billion) as gross Goods and Service Tax (GST) revenue for the month of April 2023—the highest since the landmark indirect tax reform was implemented in the country in 2017. According to the data released by Union Finance Ministry on Monday, the GST collected in April 2023 is up 12 per cent from last year. Compared to last month, the latest GST collections figure is up 16.8 per cent. In April last year, around Rs 1.68 trillion was collected. Of the 1.87 trillion rupees collected, Rs 38.4 billion came from the central GST (CGST), the state GST contributed Rs. 47 billion, while the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) accounted for Rs 12 billion, including Rs 9 billion collected on import of goods. The government has settled Rs 45.8 billion to CGST and Rs. 37.9 billion to SGST from IGST. The total revenue of the Centre and the states in the month of April 2023 after the regular settlement is Rs. 84.3 billion for CGST and Rs. 85.3 billion for SGST. “The revenues for the month of April 2023 are 12 per cent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year,” the ministry said. April 2023 saw the highest-ever tax collection on a single day on April 20. A sum of Rs 68 billion crore was paid through 9,80,000 transactions on that day. The highest single-day payment last year (on the same date) was Rs 57 billion through 9,60,000 transactions. The ministry said that the number of e-way bills generated in March 2023 was 90 million, which is 11 per cent higher than the 81 million e-way bills generated in February 2023. Commenting on the GST numbers, Assocham President Ajay Singh said that the highest-ever collection in April marks an excellent beginning of fiscal 2023-24. "The GST numbers are indicative of robust growth of the Indian economy, on the back of a strong pick-up in consumer demand," he said. Assocham is a non-governmental trade association and advocacy group. GST came into force on July 1, 2017, subsuming a plethora of indirect taxes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian govt collects record $23 billion in GST revenues in April 2023

<p>A tourist vehicle&nbsp;driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media.</p>

<p>The incident happened early on Wednesday morning (April 27), close to Jim Corbett National Park. The tiger is seen in the video storming towards the tourist vehicle after emerging from the bushes&nbsp;and growling aggressively at the tourists.</p>

<p>The driver of the gypsy was detained on Friday (April 29)&nbsp;for provoking the wild cat, according to Indian Forest Service (IFS) official Susanta Nanda. According to the forest official's tweet, he has been arrested under the Wildlife Protection Act.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Driver of this gypsy has been arrested under Wildlife Protection Act. <a href="https://t.co/6rfi8l3LHY">pic.twitter.com/6rfi8l3LHY</a></p>
— Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) <a href="https://twitter.com/susantananda3/status/1651963902966771717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As seen in the video, the tiger&nbsp;hides out off the road behind some bushes&nbsp;and appears irritated. One of the tourists can be heard screaming at the tiger in the background. The visitors and the car remain stationary as they use their cameras to photograph the tiger.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park</strong></p>

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<p>The tiger then leaps out from under the bushes and moves towards the car. Immediately after, the tourists panic and&nbsp;the car begins to move backward. But the enraged tiger starts pursuing the gypsy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tiger finally stops growling at the end of the video and retreats into the forest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-elephant-infamous-for-raiding-rice-shops-and-killing-people-shifted-to-tiger-reserve-587812">Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban'</a></p>

<p>More than 88,000 people had watched the video and hundreds had commented on it. Many users expressed their rage at tourists for disobeying the law while visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sensitising the visitors about habits and habitats of animals is very important as we have less space for wildlife and more people are entering their space. Nature guides have a very important role in this," wrote one user. "The safari numbers needs to be curtailed - daily basis and also some weeks of no safari," said another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another user&nbsp;commented, “Honestly in Jim Corbett, the drivers flout a lot of the rules. I have seen people giving the drivers extra money to take their gypsies deeper into the forest to increase the chances of sighting a tiger, or sometimes even carrying meat or flesh with them to attract the felines.”</p>

<h2><strong>Can humans and tigers coexist?</strong></h2>

<p>Five villages of the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran district of Bihar, according to PTI reports, were to be converted into a model human-carnivore coexistence zone, with the state government collaborating&nbsp;with the Wildlife Trust of India, a Nepalese organisation and a UK-based zoo for the project.</p>

<p>As per officials who spoke to PTI, the three-year project was planned to take shape&nbsp;in 2023.</p>

<p>The Valmiki Tiger Reserve made&nbsp;headlines in 2022 after&nbsp;the shooting death&nbsp;of a man-eating tiger in October that had previously killed nine humans and numerous domestic&nbsp;animals.</p>

<p>According to&nbsp;P K Gupta, Bihar's Chief Wildlife Warden,&nbsp;the reserve is essential to ensuring that tiger populations are genetically healthy.</p>

<p>Wildlife specialists claim that tigers and other large creatures frequently use the forest corridors that connect India and Nepal.</p>

<p>Therefore, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority's instructions, the state government has implemented a number of steps to safeguard the habitats of big cats and maintain their population, Gupta added.&nbsp;</p>

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A tourist vehicle driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media.

A tourist vehicle driver in Uttarakhand's Jim Corbett National Park was recently detained for reportedly provoking a tiger after a video of the wild cat charging at a tourist vehicle was widely circulated on social media. The incident happened early on Wednesday morning (April 27), close to Jim Corbett National Park. The tiger is seen in the video storming towards the tourist vehicle after emerging from the bushes and growling aggressively at the tourists. The driver of the gypsy was detained on Friday (April 29) for provoking the wild cat, according to Indian Forest Service (IFS) official Susanta Nanda. According to the forest official's tweet, he has been arrested under the Wildlife Protection Act. Driver of this gypsy has been arrested under Wildlife Protection Act. pic.twitter.com/6rfi8l3LHY — Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) April 28, 2023 × As seen in the video, the tiger hides out off the road behind some bushes and appears irritated. One of the tourists can be heard screaming at the tiger in the background. The visitors and the car remain stationary as they use their cameras to photograph the tiger. WATCH | Uttarakhand: Driver accused of provoking a tiger in Jim Corbett National Park The tiger then leaps out from under the bushes and moves towards the car. Immediately after, the tourists panic and the car begins to move backward. But the enraged tiger starts pursuing the gypsy. The tiger finally stops growling at the end of the video and retreats into the forest. ALSO READ | Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban' More than 88,000 people had watched the video and hundreds had commented on it. Many users expressed their rage at tourists for disobeying the law while visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. "Sensitising the visitors about habits and habitats of animals is very important as we have less space for wildlife and more people are entering their space. Nature guides have a very important role in this," wrote one user. "The safari numbers needs to be curtailed - daily basis and also some weeks of no safari," said another. Another user commented, “Honestly in Jim Corbett, the drivers flout a lot of the rules. I have seen people giving the drivers extra money to take their gypsies deeper into the forest to increase the chances of sighting a tiger, or sometimes even carrying meat or flesh with them to attract the felines.” Can humans and tigers coexist? Five villages of the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in West Champaran district of Bihar, according to PTI reports, were to be converted into a model human-carnivore coexistence zone, with the state government collaborating with the Wildlife Trust of India, a Nepalese organisation and a UK-based zoo for the project. As per officials who spoke to PTI, the three-year project was planned to take shape in 2023. The Valmiki Tiger Reserve made headlines in 2022 after the shooting death of a man-eating tiger in October that had previously killed nine humans and numerous domestic animals. According to P K Gupta, Bihar's Chief Wildlife Warden, the reserve is essential to ensuring that tiger populations are genetically healthy. Wildlife specialists claim that tigers and other large creatures frequently use the forest corridors that connect India and Nepal. Therefore, according to the National Tiger Conservation Authority's instructions, the state government has implemented a number of steps to safeguard the habitats of big cats and maintain their population, Gupta added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Driver held at Jim Corbett National Park after tiger charges at tourists

As Russia faces sanctions, India is emerging as Europe’s largest supplier of refined fuel. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

India, Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels

Changing climatic conditions will lead to a surge in the spread of vector-borne and infectious diseases across India, say scientists. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

Climate change increasing risk of viruses in India

India's first climate refugee resettlement colony is set to be built in the state of Odisha. The colony is set up for the people of the state who were displaced due to coastal erosion and climate change. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

India's Odisha to build first resettlement colony

Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool for fraudsters to commit scams. The latest is an AI enabled fake voice scam. Scammers are using artificial intelligence to sound more like family members in distress. The main part is that people are falling for it and being scammed.

AI scams mimicking voices are on the rise

India has outnumbered China not only in population but in the number of students studying in the U.S. An annual report released by US Immigration and Custom Enforcement shows this. For details, watch video.

Number of Indian students in the US surpassed that of China : Report

<p>India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What are they?</strong></h2>

<p>Under the new regulations, all telecom operations across India will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) spam filters in their call and message services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has instructed telecom companies to stop the transmission of promotional calls to mobile numbers with ten digits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the telecom regulatory body has asked the telecom operators to integrate a Call ID function which will show the caller's identity and image on the mobile phone display, following which the customers will be able to decipher the caller.</p>

<h2><strong>India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What they mean?</strong></h2>

<p>These Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters are meant to restrict the incessant flow of spam calls and messages that millions of handset owners in India receive for the lack of regulatory rules on it.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-pressing-mobile-manufacturers-to-release-5g-updates-524464">Indian government pressing mobile manufacturers to release 5G updates</a></strong></p>

<p>With these Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters in place, the handset will detect and prevent fraudulent communications from a number of sources.</p>

<p>The telecom operators were reportedly hesitant to implement AI filters. This was because of the privacy issues that kept the regulatory mechanism on the sidelines.</p>

<h2><strong>Which telecom operators have announced the implementation of new rules?</strong></h2>

<p>Bharti Airtel announced the implementation of AI filters into its services. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio is said to be working on deploying the filters and is expected to roll out the services in the immediate future.</p>

<p>Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are India's top two telecom operators.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India@75: Story of India’s telecom revolution</strong></p>

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<p>The communication from Vodafone Idea (VI), and MTNL on the implementation of new telecom regulatory rules is yet to come.</p>

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India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023.

India's telecom regulator implemented the new rules to tackle the issue of unwanted spam calls and messages in over a billion phone handsets across the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has brought in new regulations for telecom operators, which were implemented starting May 1, 2023. India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What are they? Under the new regulations, all telecom operations across India will deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) spam filters in their call and message services. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has instructed telecom companies to stop the transmission of promotional calls to mobile numbers with ten digits. Furthermore, the telecom regulatory body has asked the telecom operators to integrate a Call ID function which will show the caller's identity and image on the mobile phone display, following which the customers will be able to decipher the caller. India's new rules against spam calls and messages: What they mean? These Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters are meant to restrict the incessant flow of spam calls and messages that millions of handset owners in India receive for the lack of regulatory rules on it. ALSO READ | Indian government pressing mobile manufacturers to release 5G updates With these Artificial Intelligence (AI) filters in place, the handset will detect and prevent fraudulent communications from a number of sources. The telecom operators were reportedly hesitant to implement AI filters. This was because of the privacy issues that kept the regulatory mechanism on the sidelines. Which telecom operators have announced the implementation of new rules? Bharti Airtel announced the implementation of AI filters into its services. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio is said to be working on deploying the filters and is expected to roll out the services in the immediate future. Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are India's top two telecom operators. ALSO WATCH | India@75: Story of India’s telecom revolution × The communication from Vodafone Idea (VI), and MTNL on the implementation of new telecom regulatory rules is yet to come. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's telecom operators to deploy AI to fight spam calls and messages

Chinese military activity has been detected in the Indian Ocean, according to a report it is now being said that a Chinese Intelligence Facility in Myanmar's Great Coco Island that is just about 55 kilometres from India's Andaman & Nicobar islands has sprung up.

Chinese military facility found near India, says report; Beijing denies construction claims | WION

<p>The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&amp;K.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources.

The Indian government has blocked 14 mobile messenger applications being used by terror groups — a major step to curb terror activities in the country, news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 1) citing sources. The report mentioned that the apps were majorly being used by Over Ground Workers (OGW) of different terrorist organisations based in Jammu and Kashmir. Their job was to receive notifications from the bordering nation Pakistan and spread them in the region. The blocked apps were also reportedly used to spread terror propaganda and incite youths in J&K. India-based news outlet NDTV reported that the banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema. ALSO READ | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy. Watch The Central government blocked the apps under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. An official told news agency ANI: "Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India, and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app." The action was reportedly taken after the authorities received the intel and then shared it with the Central government in a secret communication recently. WATCH | Blood Man of Kashmir: The man who donated 182 pints of blood × The sources further told the news agency that the Ministry of Home Affairs closely coordinated with the IT ministry and other concerned agencies to block the apps when the information was shared with it. They were told that these applications are being used by OWGs and members of different terrorist groups to circulate anti-India messages. The sources also said that some of these apps were designed in a way that they used to maintain the anonymity of the users. They also had certain inbuilt features that made it difficult for the authorities to find out the entities linked with them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India blocks 14 mobile messenger apps being used by terrorist groups

<p>Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "Mission Arikkomban" | Taskforce located the rogue elephant "Arikkomban" earlier today in Chinnakanal, Kerala. It was later captured and shifted to another location. <a href="https://t.co/iRa7sjNAsW">pic.twitter.com/iRa7sjNAsW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1652337522385768449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kerala is so beautiful and enchanting. 💜👍<br />
<br />
Watch the send off for 'Arikomban', the elephant who created fear for local people in Chinnakanal, Idukki from Aanaerangal Dam to Periyar forest wildlife reserve near Kumili in Kerala tonight. <a href="https://t.co/ZZJ2ocqjPX">pic.twitter.com/ZZJ2ocqjPX</a></p>
— GEORGE KALLIVAYALIL (@KALLIVAYALIL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KALLIVAYALIL/status/1652359607459926017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is Konni Surendran,kunki elephant of Kerala who contained dangerous <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Arikomban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Arikomban</a><br />
<br />
Kunkis are specially trained to contain Rouge wild elephants which are dangerous to people<br />
<br />
K.Govt got Surendran when he was only 2 years old when his mother died on 1999,he got training from TN <a href="https://t.co/0xIBVAnGCz">pic.twitter.com/0xIBVAnGCz</a></p>
— Godfather 💙 (@orgasamist) <a href="https://twitter.com/orgasamist/status/1652928044502331392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Government calls the mission a success</strong></h2>

<p>The Kerala government has called this mission a success, and it is monitoring the 30-year-old elephant’s movements through a radio collar attached to it. It lived near the Devikulam forest range in the Idukki district for decades. However, locals in the area were demanding Arikomban’s removal from the site for months now. According to the government, Arikomban has killed seven people so far, apart from sporadically&nbsp;raiding local rice shops and causing a menace to the shopkeepers.</p>

<h2><strong>Move met by resentment from animal welfare associations</strong></h2>

<p>According to animal welfare activists, the issue is related to the wider debate around human-wildlife conflict, which can’t be taken care of by simply getting rid of the animals. Indian Express also quoted local sources to claim that the elephant became hostile only after human population in the area grew massively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu</strong></p>

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<p>The elephant began damaging buildings and concrete houses to forage for rice, and that’s how the years-old conflict between Arikomban and tribals started. To solve the issue, the Kerala Forest Department initially wanted to capture Arikomban and make him a permanent captive. However, the animal welfare organisations vehemently opposed the suggestion and moved to Kerala High Court.</p>

<p>The high court then formed a five-member committee to resolve the issue, which recommended the elephant be moved to another location where such human-wildlife conflict can be avoided. The committee suggested the authorities shift the elephant to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in the Palakkad district. However, this sparked a protest by locals in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, it was decided that Arikomban will be shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-at-least-5-elephants-died-of-electrocution-in-tamil-nadu-in-20-days-581133">Also Read |&nbsp;India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu in 20 days</a></strong></p>

<p>The government had formed a task force of 150 officials to capture and track Arikomban. It was tranquillised and then transported to the tiger reserve in a truck. The authorities had imposed a curfew in the area to stymie protests by locals. However, as per a report by BBC, the arrival of the elephant was met with cheers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Animal welfare activists wanted to keep the elephant in its original habitat. However, later they realised the people in the area had become hostile, and the problem could only be solved if the elephant is permanently relocated. &nbsp;</p>

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Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Indian elephant infamous for raiding rice shops and killing locals in the southern state of Kerala has been finally relocated to a tiger reserve 80 km away. The elephant Arikomban, which means ‘rice tusker’ in Malayalam, was tranquillised Saturday and shifted to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. #WATCH | "Mission Arikkomban" | Taskforce located the rogue elephant "Arikkomban" earlier today in Chinnakanal, Kerala. It was later captured and shifted to another location. pic.twitter.com/iRa7sjNAsW — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2023 × Kerala is so beautiful and enchanting. 💜👍 Watch the send off for 'Arikomban', the elephant who created fear for local people in Chinnakanal, Idukki from Aanaerangal Dam to Periyar forest wildlife reserve near Kumili in Kerala tonight. pic.twitter.com/ZZJ2ocqjPX — GEORGE KALLIVAYALIL (@KALLIVAYALIL) April 29, 2023 × This is Konni Surendran,kunki elephant of Kerala who contained dangerous #Arikomban Kunkis are specially trained to contain Rouge wild elephants which are dangerous to people K.Govt got Surendran when he was only 2 years old when his mother died on 1999,he got training from TN pic.twitter.com/0xIBVAnGCz — Godfather 💙 (@orgasamist) May 1, 2023 × Government calls the mission a success The Kerala government has called this mission a success, and it is monitoring the 30-year-old elephant’s movements through a radio collar attached to it. It lived near the Devikulam forest range in the Idukki district for decades. However, locals in the area were demanding Arikomban’s removal from the site for months now. According to the government, Arikomban has killed seven people so far, apart from sporadically raiding local rice shops and causing a menace to the shopkeepers. Move met by resentment from animal welfare associations According to animal welfare activists, the issue is related to the wider debate around human-wildlife conflict, which can’t be taken care of by simply getting rid of the animals. Indian Express also quoted local sources to claim that the elephant became hostile only after human population in the area grew massively. Watch: India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu × The elephant began damaging buildings and concrete houses to forage for rice, and that’s how the years-old conflict between Arikomban and tribals started. To solve the issue, the Kerala Forest Department initially wanted to capture Arikomban and make him a permanent captive. However, the animal welfare organisations vehemently opposed the suggestion and moved to Kerala High Court. The high court then formed a five-member committee to resolve the issue, which recommended the elephant be moved to another location where such human-wildlife conflict can be avoided. The committee suggested the authorities shift the elephant to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in the Palakkad district. However, this sparked a protest by locals in the area. Later, it was decided that Arikomban will be shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve. Also Read | India: At least 5 elephants died of electrocution in Tamil Nadu in 20 days The government had formed a task force of 150 officials to capture and track Arikomban. It was tranquillised and then transported to the tiger reserve in a truck. The authorities had imposed a curfew in the area to stymie protests by locals. However, as per a report by BBC, the arrival of the elephant was met with cheers. Animal welfare activists wanted to keep the elephant in its original habitat. However, later they realised the people in the area had become hostile, and the problem could only be solved if the elephant is permanently relocated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Over dozen police vehicles, one lorry, 122-km trip - how India's Kerala moved tranquilised tusker 'Arikomban'

<p>A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes&nbsp;and ration shops&nbsp;to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the local Malayalam language, 'Arikomban' stands for 'rice tusker'.</p>

<p>Dr Arun Zachariah, the senior veterinary officer who led the team of forest officials behind this capture, said, “Arikomban was brought to Kumali in the Idukki district around 121 kilometres away from Chinnakkanal. Section 144 was declared in the Kumali area and restricted electricity supply on the way it was transported.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another official said that the elephant has been radio-collared and that the signals from it will be monitored from the tiger reserve.</p>

<p>"We are getting signals from the radio collar. His location will be monitored from the tiger reserve. He is very healthy," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-breach-at-narendra-modis-mysuru-rally-phone-thrown-at-indian-pms-convoy-587639">Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy</a></strong></p>

<p>Sharing details about the 'Arikomban' mission, a forest official said that on the first day of the operation, their team 'wasn't lucky' and that on the second day, they were able to tranquilise the tusker after another elephant, who was Arikomban's competitor, brought the rice-favouring elephant before the forest officials.</p>

<p>Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, on April 19, directed the forest officials to discover a new place for shifting the rice-eating tusker after it created destruction in the Idukki district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kerala High Court asked the state government on April 20 to relocate the wild elephant within a week and stated that if the tusker is not relocated within a week, it will be transferred to Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-gets-its-first-cable-stayed-rail-bridge-with-96-cables-587599">Watch | India gets its first 'cable-stayed rail bridge' with 96 cables</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking to reports, the Kerala forest minister said, “As a government, we have to act according to the decisions of the courts of justice. We will not shy away from it. That would not be good practice. It is not a democratic practice. The officials of the forest department have been directed to find a new place to shift the Arikomban. They will give it by tomorrow morning. It will inform the High Court which is the best proposal”.</p>

<p>“We do not intend to prolong it indefinitely. Had elephant lovers not questioned the government’s decision, a solution could have been found by the 12th of last month. Unfortunately, it couldn’t,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes and ration shops to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve.

A rogue elephant named 'Arikomban', which broke into homes and ration shops to steal rice and caused massive destruction in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been tranquilised and shifted to the deep interiors of Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the local Malayalam language, 'Arikomban' stands for 'rice tusker'. Dr Arun Zachariah, the senior veterinary officer who led the team of forest officials behind this capture, said, “Arikomban was brought to Kumali in the Idukki district around 121 kilometres away from Chinnakkanal. Section 144 was declared in the Kumali area and restricted electricity supply on the way it was transported.” Another official said that the elephant has been radio-collared and that the signals from it will be monitored from the tiger reserve. "We are getting signals from the radio collar. His location will be monitored from the tiger reserve. He is very healthy," he said. Also read | Massive security breach at Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, phone thrown at Indian PM's convoy Sharing details about the 'Arikomban' mission, a forest official said that on the first day of the operation, their team 'wasn't lucky' and that on the second day, they were able to tranquilise the tusker after another elephant, who was Arikomban's competitor, brought the rice-favouring elephant before the forest officials. Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, on April 19, directed the forest officials to discover a new place for shifting the rice-eating tusker after it created destruction in the Idukki district. The Kerala High Court asked the state government on April 20 to relocate the wild elephant within a week and stated that if the tusker is not relocated within a week, it will be transferred to Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary. Also read | Watch | India gets its first 'cable-stayed rail bridge' with 96 cables Talking to reports, the Kerala forest minister said, “As a government, we have to act according to the decisions of the courts of justice. We will not shy away from it. That would not be good practice. It is not a democratic practice. The officials of the forest department have been directed to find a new place to shift the Arikomban. They will give it by tomorrow morning. It will inform the High Court which is the best proposal”. “We do not intend to prolong it indefinitely. Had elephant lovers not questioned the government’s decision, a solution could have been found by the 12th of last month. Unfortunately, it couldn’t,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian forest officials tranquilise, capture rogue rice-raiding tusker 'Arikomban'

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