Apple Inc. is set to significantly increase its production capacity in India, with plans to expand its investment in the country to approximately $40 billion over the next four to five years.

Government sources, wishing to remain anonymous, disclosed this ambitious expansion strategy, noting that Apple had already crossed the $7 billion production milestone during the previous fiscal year.

According to the official, Apple's expansion in India is on course to extend beyond its current iPhone manufacturing operations. While iPhones have been manufactured in India, the company intends to begin the production of Airpods in the coming year. However, there are currently no immediate plans to manufacture iPads or laptops within India.

“They don't have any plans to participate in IT hardware PLI. They may come at a later stage but as of now their focus is to scale up existing production levels,” PTI quoted the official as saying.

Apple's commitment to India is evident in its recent product launches. On September 22, 2023, Apple introduced the highly anticipated iPhone 15 series, featuring the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which hit stores in India and various other countries simultaneously. Remarkably, Apple released the India-built iPhone 15 models on the same day they became available worldwide, underscoring India's importance in Apple's global production and distribution network.

Industry insiders cited by Business Today reported that the launch of the iPhone 15 series in India saw a remarkable 100 per cent growth in sales compared to the previous iPhone 14 series launch. Apple posted substantial financial figures for the fiscal year ending on September 25, 2022, with global iPhone sales reaching $191 billion and wearable, home, and accessories segment sales reaching $38.36 billion.

Market research firm Counterpoint Research also noted Apple's dominance in India's top smartphone market segment, which includes phones priced above Rs 45,000 ($541). Apple secured a 59 per cent market share in this category during the first quarter of 2023, confirming India's position as one of Apple's top five markets.

Apple's exponential growth in India's manufacturing and export landscape was highlighted by it surpassing Samsung as the leading exporter of smartphones from India. In the June quarter, Apple accounted for 49 per cent of the country's total smartphone shipments, compared to Samsung's 45 per cent, according to a report by the Economic Times. This highlights Apple’s rapid expansion and substantial investment in regional production and exports from India.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Apple Inc. is set to significantly increase its production capacity in India, with plans to expand its investment in the country to approximately $40 billion over the next four to five years.

Apple Inc. is set to significantly increase its production capacity in India, with plans to expand its investment in the country to approximately $40 billion over the next four to five years. Government sources, wishing to remain anonymous, disclosed this ambitious expansion strategy, noting that Apple had already crossed the $7 billion production milestone during the previous fiscal year. According to the official, Apple's expansion in India is on course to extend beyond its current iPhone manufacturing operations. While iPhones have been manufactured in India, the company intends to begin the production of Airpods in the coming year. However, there are currently no immediate plans to manufacture iPads or laptops within India. “They don't have any plans to participate in IT hardware PLI. They may come at a later stage but as of now their focus is to scale up existing production levels,” PTI quoted the official as saying. Apple's commitment to India is evident in its recent product launches. On September 22, 2023, Apple introduced the highly anticipated iPhone 15 series, featuring the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which hit stores in India and various other countries simultaneously. Remarkably, Apple released the India-built iPhone 15 models on the same day they became available worldwide, underscoring India's importance in Apple's global production and distribution network. Industry insiders cited by Business Today reported that the launch of the iPhone 15 series in India saw a remarkable 100 per cent growth in sales compared to the previous iPhone 14 series launch. Apple posted substantial financial figures for the fiscal year ending on September 25, 2022, with global iPhone sales reaching $191 billion and wearable, home, and accessories segment sales reaching $38.36 billion. Market research firm Counterpoint Research also noted Apple's dominance in India's top smartphone market segment, which includes phones priced above Rs 45,000 ($541). Apple secured a 59 per cent market share in this category during the first quarter of 2023, confirming India's position as one of Apple's top five markets. Apple's exponential growth in India's manufacturing and export landscape was highlighted by it surpassing Samsung as the leading exporter of smartphones from India. In the June quarter, Apple accounted for 49 per cent of the country's total smartphone shipments, compared to Samsung's 45 per cent, according to a report by the Economic Times. This highlights Apple’s rapid expansion and substantial investment in regional production and exports from India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Apple aims to boost manufacturing and invest $40 billion in India: Report

As India commits its ambitious climate goals, a report by Climate Risk Horizons (CRH) has revealed that the country's banks are alarmingly ill-equipped to address climate change risks. While India pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 at the Glasgow Climate Meet, its banking sector has been slow to incorporate climate risks into their policies.

The report, which assessed 34 top banks on various parameters related to climate risk management, found that most of them lack policies addressing fossil fuel use, emissions limits, and climate scenario analysis. CRH's survey highlighted that public sector banks are particularly vulnerable to large capital shortfalls due to adverse climate shocks.

CRH’s report noted, "Extreme weather events in 2022 claimed 3,026 lives and affected crop areas. Preparedness for climate risks means that they have to be measured and managed. And this is exactly where Indian banks are lagging."

India faced another year of climate-related disasters in 2023, with flooding and landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh resulting in significant loss of life and property. The financial toll is estimated to be substantial, highlighting the urgent need for banks to address climate risks.

The report also emphasized the importance of joining international climate initiative associations, such as the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). These associations provide expertise and guidance on climate accounting and reporting.

GHG accounting, a critical aspect of addressing climate risks, involves measuring greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). It's crucial for financial institutions to measure and report their Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions) emissions. However, Scope 3 emissions, which encompass emissions from a company's value chain, remain challenging to measure but are vital for financial institutions to track.

According to CRH's data, only 10 out of the 34 banks have begun disclosing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with 8 of them also starting to disclose some Scope 3 emissions. Notably, none of the banks have calculated the impact of different climate scenarios on their portfolios. Furthermore, only 10 banks have disclosed the amount of green finance disbursed, and none have set comprehensive net-zero targets covering all three scope emissions.

CRH has urged Indian banks to take concrete steps towards aligning with India's climate goals. This includes increased lending for the country's energy transition targets, transparent disclosure of climate-related figures, and ensuring that fossil fuel-dependent industries they finance develop science-based transition plans. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, India's banking sector faces mounting pressure to play a pivotal role in combating climate risks.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

As India commits its ambitious climate goals, a report by Climate Risk Horizons (CRH) has revealed that the country's banks are alarmingly ill-equipped to address climate change risks.

As India commits its ambitious climate goals, a report by Climate Risk Horizons (CRH) has revealed that the country's banks are alarmingly ill-equipped to address climate change risks. While India pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 at the Glasgow Climate Meet, its banking sector has been slow to incorporate climate risks into their policies. The report, which assessed 34 top banks on various parameters related to climate risk management, found that most of them lack policies addressing fossil fuel use, emissions limits, and climate scenario analysis. CRH's survey highlighted that public sector banks are particularly vulnerable to large capital shortfalls due to adverse climate shocks. CRH’s report noted, "Extreme weather events in 2022 claimed 3,026 lives and affected crop areas. Preparedness for climate risks means that they have to be measured and managed. And this is exactly where Indian banks are lagging." India faced another year of climate-related disasters in 2023, with flooding and landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh resulting in significant loss of life and property. The financial toll is estimated to be substantial, highlighting the urgent need for banks to address climate risks. The report also emphasized the importance of joining international climate initiative associations, such as the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). These associations provide expertise and guidance on climate accounting and reporting. GHG accounting, a critical aspect of addressing climate risks, involves measuring greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). It's crucial for financial institutions to measure and report their Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions) emissions. However, Scope 3 emissions, which encompass emissions from a company's value chain, remain challenging to measure but are vital for financial institutions to track. According to CRH's data, only 10 out of the 34 banks have begun disclosing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with 8 of them also starting to disclose some Scope 3 emissions. Notably, none of the banks have calculated the impact of different climate scenarios on their portfolios. Furthermore, only 10 banks have disclosed the amount of green finance disbursed, and none have set comprehensive net-zero targets covering all three scope emissions. CRH has urged Indian banks to take concrete steps towards aligning with India's climate goals. This includes increased lending for the country's energy transition targets, transparent disclosure of climate-related figures, and ensuring that fossil fuel-dependent industries they finance develop science-based transition plans. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, India's banking sector faces mounting pressure to play a pivotal role in combating climate risks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian banks grapple with climate crisis amid ambitious climate goals: Report

Indian edtech firm, Byju's, is set to undergo a major restructuring effort, potentially resulting in the termination of 4,000 to 5,000 jobs. This significant workforce reduction, announced by the company's new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, reflects Byju's attempts to strengthen its operations amid ongoing financial challenges, Moneycontrol reported. &nbsp;

According to the report, the restructuring, impacting India-based employees of Think and Learn Pvt Ltd, which operates Byju's, will not include Aakash, another prominent firm owned by edtech giant. The decision to implement these job cuts encompasses various functions within the organisation, including sales and marketing, aiming to eliminate areas of significant overlap. &nbsp;

In a statement addressing this restructuring, a spokesperson for Byju's was quoted by Moneycontrol as saying, "We are in the final stages of a business restructuring exercise to simplify operating structures, reduce the cost base, and better cash flow management. Byju's new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, will be completing this process in the next few weeks and will steer a revamped and sustainable operation ahead."&nbsp;

This restructuring initiative comes at a critical juncture for Byju's, as the company grapples with a tightening liquidity situation. In response to imminent financial pressures, Byju's has taken various measures, including reducing office space, exploring the sale of subsidiaries, and seeking external funding.&nbsp;

As per reports, Byju's had previously sent a proposal to its lenders to repay its $1.2 billion disputed term loan B within the next six months. The proposal included an upfront payment of $300 million in the next three months. To fund these repayment plans, Byju's is contemplating the sale of two key assets, Great Learning and US-based Epic. &nbsp;

Moreover, the company has been actively pursuing fresh equity funding to bolster its financial position. Despite being one of the world's largest edtech firms with an approximate valuation of $22 billion, Byju's has faced challenges in securing new funding throughout this year.&nbsp;

In May, the company secured $250 million in structured instruments from Davidson Kempner. However, a significant portion of this amount, nearly $150 million, was held back by the US-based AMC due to a lack of progress in negotiations with Byju's lenders. Additionally, Byju's had a technical default on the Davidson Kempner loan, leading founder and CEO, Byju Raveendran to raise funds for its repayment to retain control of Aakash Educational Services. &nbsp;

Byju's is also exploring fundraising from one of its earliest backers, Ranjan Pai, for Aakash Educational Services, which could involve a partial buyout of Raveendran's stake.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Indian edtech firm, Byju's, is set to undergo a major restructuring effort, potentially resulting in the termination of 4,000 to 5,000 jobs. This significant workforce reduction, announced by the company's new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, reflects Byju's attempts to strengthen its operations amid ongoing financial challenges, Moneycontrol reported.

Indian edtech firm, Byju's, is set to undergo a major restructuring effort, potentially resulting in the termination of 4,000 to 5,000 jobs. This significant workforce reduction, announced by the company's new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, reflects Byju's attempts to strengthen its operations amid ongoing financial challenges, Moneycontrol reported. According to the report, the restructuring, impacting India-based employees of Think and Learn Pvt Ltd, which operates Byju's, will not include Aakash, another prominent firm owned by edtech giant. The decision to implement these job cuts encompasses various functions within the organisation, including sales and marketing, aiming to eliminate areas of significant overlap. In a statement addressing this restructuring, a spokesperson for Byju's was quoted by Moneycontrol as saying, "We are in the final stages of a business restructuring exercise to simplify operating structures, reduce the cost base, and better cash flow management. Byju's new India CEO, Arjun Mohan, will be completing this process in the next few weeks and will steer a revamped and sustainable operation ahead." This restructuring initiative comes at a critical juncture for Byju's, as the company grapples with a tightening liquidity situation. In response to imminent financial pressures, Byju's has taken various measures, including reducing office space, exploring the sale of subsidiaries, and seeking external funding. As per reports, Byju's had previously sent a proposal to its lenders to repay its $1.2 billion disputed term loan B within the next six months. The proposal included an upfront payment of $300 million in the next three months. To fund these repayment plans, Byju's is contemplating the sale of two key assets, Great Learning and US-based Epic. Moreover, the company has been actively pursuing fresh equity funding to bolster its financial position. Despite being one of the world's largest edtech firms with an approximate valuation of $22 billion, Byju's has faced challenges in securing new funding throughout this year. In May, the company secured $250 million in structured instruments from Davidson Kempner. However, a significant portion of this amount, nearly $150 million, was held back by the US-based AMC due to a lack of progress in negotiations with Byju's lenders. Additionally, Byju's had a technical default on the Davidson Kempner loan, leading founder and CEO, Byju Raveendran to raise funds for its repayment to retain control of Aakash Educational Services. Byju's is also exploring fundraising from one of its earliest backers, Ranjan Pai, for Aakash Educational Services, which could involve a partial buyout of Raveendran's stake. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian edtech firm Byju's announces major restructuring, plans to cut thousands of jobs 

India-Canada tensions are going to continue but what effect is that going to have with the rest of the West and specifically with the United States

Canada accuses India of killing Khalistani terrorist Nijjar

Recent developments in the Nijjar killing have strained relationships between India and Canada and are forcing the Western countries to tread carefully. They must avoid alienating India, a rising power, while not abandoning Canada, a NATO member. In this week’s special episode of The India Story Vikram Chandra decodes the escalating diplomatic crisis between India and Canada what effect will this spat have on the rest of the world, particularly the West?

More on the India-Canada diplomatic row

From Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain, a shocking video has emerged showing a 15-year-old girl, bleeding and half naked, walking door to door for help after being sexually assaulted. The police have detained 5 for interrogation and an investigation is on.

Gravitas | Ujjain Horror: 15-year-old assault survivor's harrowing ordeal in Madhya Pradesh

Manipur is in the grip of unrest once again. The violence erupted after the alleged death of 2 missing students. The authorities have vowed to punish the perpetrators. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas | Manipur: Violence erupts after 'death' of 2 missing students

There has been another suicide in India's coaching district of Kota. Why are students taking their own lives? How do we suicide-proof the education system?

Gravitas | Kota factory of suicides: what's happening in India’s coaching district

24 hours after the Pak Cricket Team landed in India, the PCB chief is being slammed for spewing hate against India. A viral video shows him calling India an 'enemy country'. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: PCB chief calls India 'enemy country'

The boys of Fukrey and the notorious Bholi Punjaban have reunited in Fukrey 3. Find out all about the film as Varun Sharma, Pulkit Samrat, Manjot Singh and Richa Chadha spill the beans in this exclusive chat with WION's Samarpita Das.

Richa Chadha, Pulkit Samrat, Manjot Singh, and Varun Sharma on 'Fukrey 3'

Amid the ongoing bitterness between India and Canada over claims made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hackers calling themselves the Indian Cyber Force have claimed to have targeted&nbsp;the Canadian Armed Forces' official website.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The group, which does not have any formal links to New Delhi, claimed on messaging app Telegram that it had taken down the&nbsp;www.forces.ca website. One of the messages shared showed a screenshot of an error page with the message "#f*** Canada".&nbsp;

The cyberattack, according to experts, is believed to be a&nbsp;“distributed denial of service” (DDoS) assault aimed at sending a message to the Canadian government.&nbsp;

DDoS attacks are typically short-lived, lasting hours or days at most.

Most hacking groups, masquerading as internet activists, use&nbsp;DDoS attacks as a method to draw attention to themselves rather than a serious effort to cause damage.

Daniel Le Bouthillier, head of media relations at the Department of National Defence told Canadian media that the 'disruption' started around noon on Wednesday (Sep 27) before "it was rectified" later in the day.&nbsp;

Bouthillier didn't provide further details but added,&nbsp;“We have no indication of broader impacts to our systems."

The Canadian Forces – which represent all military operations for Canada, including the navy, special command groups, air, and space operations – are investigating the issue.&nbsp;

Notably, a week prior to the&nbsp;alleged hacking attempt, the group had posted a message, hinting at the cyber job.

“Get ready to feel the power of IndianCyberForce attacks will be launching on Canada cyber space… it’s for the mess your started," read the message.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-another-khalistani-terrorist-shot-dead-in-canada-why-is-pm-trudeau-mute-now-638371">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Another Khalistani Terrorist shot dead in Canada | Why is PM Trudeau mute now?</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-another-khalistani-terrorist-shot-dead-in-canada-why-is-pm-trudeau-mute-now-638371/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>Diplomatic tussle between Ottawa and New Delhi</h2>

The diplomatic tussle between India and Canada started after Trudeau addressed an emergency parliament session wherein he claimed his government had "credible allegations" that Indian government "agents" had undertaken the murder assignment of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;

Nijjar&nbsp;was shot&nbsp;dead on June 18 by two unidentified men in the parking lot of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, Canada. According to Indian security agencies, he was involved in the Khalistan separatist movement and had gained Canadian citizenship despite forging his identity.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-raised-canadas-claims-of-sikh-separatist-leaders-death-with-modi-at-g20-ft-report-638391">Also read |&nbsp;Nijjar death: Biden, Modi discussed Canada murder row; no 'special exemption,' says US NSA</a>

Since then, the two countries have been going back and forth on the issue with New Delhi keeping Ottawa at arm's length and giving swift diplomatic checks, every once in a while.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Amid the ongoing bitterness between India and Canada over claims made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hackers calling themselves the Indian Cyber Force have claimed to have targeted the Canadian Armed Forces' official website.

Amid the ongoing bitterness between India and Canada over claims made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, hackers calling themselves the Indian Cyber Force have claimed to have targeted the Canadian Armed Forces' official website. The group, which does not have any formal links to New Delhi, claimed on messaging app Telegram that it had taken down the www.forces.ca website. One of the messages shared showed a screenshot of an error page with the message "#f*** Canada". The cyberattack, according to experts, is believed to be a “distributed denial of service” (DDoS) assault aimed at sending a message to the Canadian government. DDoS attacks are typically short-lived, lasting hours or days at most. Most hacking groups, masquerading as internet activists, use DDoS attacks as a method to draw attention to themselves rather than a serious effort to cause damage. Daniel Le Bouthillier, head of media relations at the Department of National Defence told Canadian media that the 'disruption' started around noon on Wednesday (Sep 27) before "it was rectified" later in the day. Bouthillier didn't provide further details but added, “We have no indication of broader impacts to our systems." The Canadian Forces – which represent all military operations for Canada, including the navy, special command groups, air, and space operations – are investigating the issue. Notably, a week prior to the alleged hacking attempt, the group had posted a message, hinting at the cyber job. “Get ready to feel the power of IndianCyberForce attacks will be launching on Canada cyber space… it’s for the mess your started," read the message. Watch | Gravitas: Another Khalistani Terrorist shot dead in Canada | Why is PM Trudeau mute now? × Diplomatic tussle between Ottawa and New Delhi The diplomatic tussle between India and Canada started after Trudeau addressed an emergency parliament session wherein he claimed his government had "credible allegations" that Indian government "agents" had undertaken the murder assignment of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar was shot dead on June 18 by two unidentified men in the parking lot of Guru Nanak Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, Canada. According to Indian security agencies, he was involved in the Khalistan separatist movement and had gained Canadian citizenship despite forging his identity. Also read | Nijjar death: Biden, Modi discussed Canada murder row; no 'special exemption,' says US NSA Since then, the two countries have been going back and forth on the issue with New Delhi keeping Ottawa at arm's length and giving swift diplomatic checks, every once in a while. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hackers claiming allegiance to India target Canadian military website

The latest edition of the global innovation index has placed Asia's third-largest economy at the 40th position. India's ranking in the index has been improving over the past decade, rising from 81st in 2015 to 40th in 2023.

Decoding India's rise in global innovation index

Watch the journey of Sumit Gupta & Neeraj Khandelwal, visionary entrepreneurs who built India's most valued crypto company, COIN DCX. This online platform has simplified the trading and investing of digital assets, allowing more people to participate. Since its inception, COIN DCX has enabled countless users by providing a user-friendly interface, a wide selection of cryptocurrencies, and extensive educational materials related to the blockchain technology on which cryptocurrencies are based. Joins us as Jasper Reid talks to the founders to decode how COIN DCX is a transparent and secure cryptocurrency exchange at India's forefront of blockchain technology and inspires trust in the digital financial system.

Watch the journey of Sumit Gupta & Neeraj Khandelwal building COIN DCX

The US Mission in India on Thursday surpassed its goal of processing one million non-immigrant visa applications this year. Watch the video to know more.

US mission in India breaks record, processes 1 million visa applications

Khalistani separatism, an ideology which failed in India grew into a terror network overseas as it was politically condoned. India threw a long rope to these self-styled goons and their politically condoned crimes against the Indian diaspora overseas, but after repeated attacks on Indian consulates, diplomats and the Hindu diaspora overseas, India will not take it anymore. India has decided to crack down. Khalistani terrorists are now facing the wrath of Indian authorities. Shivan Chanana explains India’s game plan to eliminate Khalistani terrorists in this episode.

Khalistani terrorism: India is ready to fight terrorist - gangster nexus

Amid the ongoing feud between India and Canada, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington. Jaishankar arrived in Washington from New York after addressing the 78th UNGA.

S Jaishankar meets Antony Blinken: US to urge India to cooperate in Canada's probe | WION

Indian EAM S Jaishankar meets US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, hold talk amid India-Canada row

An iPhone assembly facility in Southern India gradually restarted its operations and this comes after the factory suffered downtime in the aftermath of a fire accident. The factory is run by Taiwanese contract manufacturer Pegatron which is among those entrusted with the Assembly of Apple iPhones in India.

iPhone assembly facility in South India resumes work, 4 days after fire incident

India is on the threshold of completing a major project which will provide the country with an alternative route to the remote but Indian Army's strategically important outpost near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), said the top officials on Thursday (Sep 28) as reported by the Hindustan Times. 
 
The new road, which will connect India’s northernmost military base Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), will allow the movement of weapons, logistics and soldiers for reinforcements on the front lines. 
 
As reported, the new road is not visible from across the LAC, which is an advantage that the only existing road to DBO from Darbuk does not have. Also, since the road is far away from the LAC it will remain less vulnerable to any attack launched from across the LAC.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-president-volodymyr-zelensky-keen-on-india-visit-later-this-year-640807">Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky keen on India visit later this year</a>

An official said that the road will be ready by November-end to support critical military movement and should be fully blacktopped in a year, reported the Hindustan Times. More than 2000 people have been working towards meeting the deadline. 
 
The construction of the 130km long road, which runs from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley to DBO near the Karakoram Pass, is in its final phase. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is required to finish a stretch in steep glaciated terrain and it will be constructing a bridge on the Shyok River.

<h2>BRO places road under Hardness Index-III, classifies it as tough project</h2>

An official told the Hindustan Times that they are using the latest technologies to remove “construction hurdles in the final lap”. The road has been placed under Hardness Index-III, which is the top-most classification of BRO for tough projects. 
 
The existing Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi (DS-DBO) road, which is 255km long, runs near the LAC. Darbuk and Sasoma are accessible from Leh via two different road axes. 
 
The officials further confirmed that various key sections of the Sasoma-Saser La-Saser Brangsa-Gapshan-DBO road were completed.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: India's anti-terror crackdown, Khalistan-Gangster nexus with links to Canada raided

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-anti-terror-crackdown-khalistan-gangster-nexus-with-links-to-canada-raided-640356/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Former Northern Army commander Lieutenant General DS Hooda (retd), told HT that ‘Sub Sector North’, which consists of Karakoram Pass, Depsang plains and the DBO landing ground, is a strategically important area. 
 
“The DS-DBO road leading to this area runs close and parallel to the LAC for much of its length north of Galwan. It could be interdicted during operations, cutting off support to troops in this sector. An alternative route via Nubra Valley and over Saser La provides a safer road that cannot be easily interfered with. Constructing a road over the glaciated region of Saser La was a huge challenge and BRO should be complimented for overcoming this,” Hooda stated.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India is on the threshold of completing a major project which will provide the country with an alternative route to the remote but Indian Army's strategically important outpost near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), said the top officials on Thursday (Sep 28) as reported by the Hindustan Times.

India is on the threshold of completing a major project which will provide the country with an alternative route to the remote but Indian Army's strategically important outpost near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), said the top officials on Thursday (Sep 28) as reported by the Hindustan Times. The new road, which will connect India’s northernmost military base Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), will allow the movement of weapons, logistics and soldiers for reinforcements on the front lines. As reported, the new road is not visible from across the LAC, which is an advantage that the only existing road to DBO from Darbuk does not have. Also, since the road is far away from the LAC it will remain less vulnerable to any attack launched from across the LAC. ALSO READ | Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky keen on India visit later this year An official said that the road will be ready by November-end to support critical military movement and should be fully blacktopped in a year, reported the Hindustan Times. More than 2000 people have been working towards meeting the deadline. The construction of the 130km long road, which runs from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley to DBO near the Karakoram Pass, is in its final phase. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is required to finish a stretch in steep glaciated terrain and it will be constructing a bridge on the Shyok River. BRO places road under Hardness Index-III, classifies it as tough project An official told the Hindustan Times that they are using the latest technologies to remove “construction hurdles in the final lap”. The road has been placed under Hardness Index-III, which is the top-most classification of BRO for tough projects. The existing Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi (DS-DBO) road, which is 255km long, runs near the LAC. Darbuk and Sasoma are accessible from Leh via two different road axes. The officials further confirmed that various key sections of the Sasoma-Saser La-Saser Brangsa-Gapshan-DBO road were completed. WATCH | Gravitas: India's anti-terror crackdown, Khalistan-Gangster nexus with links to Canada raided Former Northern Army commander Lieutenant General DS Hooda (retd), told HT that ‘Sub Sector North’, which consists of Karakoram Pass, Depsang plains and the DBO landing ground, is a strategically important area. “The DS-DBO road leading to this area runs close and parallel to the LAC for much of its length north of Galwan. It could be interdicted during operations, cutting off support to troops in this sector. An alternative route via Nubra Valley and over Saser La provides a safer road that cannot be easily interfered with. Constructing a road over the glaciated region of Saser La was a huge challenge and BRO should be complimented for overcoming this,” Hooda stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India lays down new road to Daulat Beg Oldi, secures key point at LAC

The Ukrainian side has expressed keen interest with the Indian side on the visit of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;to India later this year. The discussions regarding this proposed visit are currently in their initial stages. If materialised, this visit would mark a significant milestone as it would be the first visit by a Ukrainian President to India since the conflict in Ukraine erupted last year.

The matter of President Zelensky's visit has been discussed at several levels with the Indian side including at the National Security Advisor (NSA) level mechanism. Under this mechanism, Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, and India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval have engaged in deliberations.

Since the outbreak of the conflict last year, India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. New Delhi has underscored Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that "this is not an era of war."

It has also drawn attention to the collateral consequences of the Ukraine conflict, which have led to soaring prices of essential commodities such as food, fuel, and fertilisers, adversely impacting not only India but also the global community, especially the member states of the Global South. India's G20 Presidency has played a pivotal role in highlighting these economic challenges faced by developing nations on the G20's global platform.

It is worth noting that Ukraine was not formally invited to attend the proceedings of the G20 Summit, unlike Indonesia in the previous year. Nonetheless, there has been sustained engagement between the two nations.

Earlier this year, India's Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma, paid a visit to Kyiv, while Ukraine's first deputy Foreign Minister, Emine Dzhaparova, made a diplomatic trip to Delhi. These interactions mark the first government-to-government visits between the two nations since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.

In a significant diplomatic engagement earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;met on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima.

During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the profound global impact of the Ukraine conflict and emphasised that, for him, it transcends political and economic considerations; it is fundamentally an "issue of humanity and human values". He commended Ukraine's co-operation in ensuring the safe evacuation of Indian students and warmly welcomed Ukraine's decision to conduct examinations in India for these students.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Ukrainian side has expressed keen interest with the Indian side on the visit of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to India later this year. The discussions regarding this proposed visit are currently in their initial stages.

The Ukrainian side has expressed keen interest with the Indian side on the visit of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to India later this year. The discussions regarding this proposed visit are currently in their initial stages. If materialised, this visit would mark a significant milestone as it would be the first visit by a Ukrainian President to India since the conflict in Ukraine erupted last year. The matter of President Zelensky's visit has been discussed at several levels with the Indian side including at the National Security Advisor (NSA) level mechanism. Under this mechanism, Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, and India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval have engaged in deliberations. Since the outbreak of the conflict last year, India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. New Delhi has underscored Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that "this is not an era of war." It has also drawn attention to the collateral consequences of the Ukraine conflict, which have led to soaring prices of essential commodities such as food, fuel, and fertilisers, adversely impacting not only India but also the global community, especially the member states of the Global South. India's G20 Presidency has played a pivotal role in highlighting these economic challenges faced by developing nations on the G20's global platform. It is worth noting that Ukraine was not formally invited to attend the proceedings of the G20 Summit, unlike Indonesia in the previous year. Nonetheless, there has been sustained engagement between the two nations. Earlier this year, India's Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sanjay Verma, paid a visit to Kyiv, while Ukraine's first deputy Foreign Minister, Emine Dzhaparova, made a diplomatic trip to Delhi. These interactions mark the first government-to-government visits between the two nations since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. In a significant diplomatic engagement earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky met on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima. During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the profound global impact of the Ukraine conflict and emphasised that, for him, it transcends political and economic considerations; it is fundamentally an "issue of humanity and human values". He commended Ukraine's co-operation in ensuring the safe evacuation of Indian students and warmly welcomed Ukraine's decision to conduct examinations in India for these students. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky 'keen' to visit India later this year

During a heavy rainstorm in India's Hyderabad on Wednesday evening (Sept 27), a surprising and potentially dangerous sight emerged from an open drain in the city— that of a baby crocodile.

The reptile made its way out of the drain located in Chintal Basti, Khairatabad, which is in the heart of Hyderabad. This unexpected appearance sent shockwaves among local residents, who quickly alerted the authorities.

As the baby crocodile crawled out of the rapidly flowing drain, people contacted the police, who promptly informed the Forest Department.

The sighting occurred near a construction site for a bridge over the drain, attracting a significant crowd of curious onlookers. It is believed that the crocodile had been washed into the area due to the floodwaters.

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crocodile?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crocodile</a> which created panic at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChintalBasti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChintalBasti</a>, in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Khairatabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Khairatabad</a> area was rescued, which was spotted near nala, after heavy rains. 
 
Police personnel and the DRF team helped the forest dept, to rescue the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/reptile?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#reptile</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HyderabadRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HyderabadRains</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyderabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyderabad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wildlife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wildlife</a> <a href="https://t.co/fFMHR1V0Tn">https://t.co/fFMHR1V0Tn</a> <a href="https://t.co/llz4vknTyx">pic.twitter.com/llz4vknTyx</a>
— Surya Reddy (@jsuryareddy) <a href="https://twitter.com/jsuryareddy/status/1707140035219481060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Four-hour-long rescue operation</h2>

A four-hour-long operation ensued, involving the Forest Department, Disaster Response Force (DRF) teams, and the police.

With their combined efforts, they successfully captured the crocodile, ensuring its safety. Subsequently, the reptile was relocated to the Nehru Zoological Park within the city.

According to Forest Officer M Joji who spoke to IANS,&nbsp;the crocodile likely originated from Gandipet, situated approximately 25 kilometres&nbsp;upstream from the city.&nbsp;

Similar reports of crocodile sightings in the Musi River had been documented in the past, including an incident in September 2020 when a crocodile was spotted near Rajendra Nagar near Attapur. Unfortunately, despite the swift response from forest and police personnel, the crocodile managed to evade capture on that occasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-10-year-old-malaysian-girl-arranges-chessboard-in-seconds-while-blindfolded-sets-world-record-640433">WATCH: 10-year-old Malaysian girl arranges chessboard in seconds while blindfolded, sets world record</a>

Osman Sagar, commonly known as Gandipet Lake, is more than a century old and features 15 gates that can be opened to release water into the Musi River. These lakes, Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar, were constructed outside of the city following the devastating Musi River floods in Hyderabad in 1908. These reservoirs were built based on recommendations from the renowned engineer M Visweswaraya, with the aim of preventing future catastrophic flooding within the city.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

During a heavy rainstorm in India's Hyderabad on Wednesday evening (Sept 27), a surprising and potentially dangerous sight emerged from an open drain in the city— that of a baby crocodile.

During a heavy rainstorm in India's Hyderabad on Wednesday evening (Sept 27), a surprising and potentially dangerous sight emerged from an open drain in the city— that of a baby crocodile. The reptile made its way out of the drain located in Chintal Basti, Khairatabad, which is in the heart of Hyderabad. This unexpected appearance sent shockwaves among local residents, who quickly alerted the authorities. As the baby crocodile crawled out of the rapidly flowing drain, people contacted the police, who promptly informed the Forest Department. The sighting occurred near a construction site for a bridge over the drain, attracting a significant crowd of curious onlookers. It is believed that the crocodile had been washed into the area due to the floodwaters. Watch the video here: The #Crocodile which created panic at the #ChintalBasti, in #Khairatabad area was rescued, which was spotted near nala, after heavy rains. Police personnel and the DRF team helped the forest dept, to rescue the #reptile.#HyderabadRains #Hyderabad #wildlife https://t.co/fFMHR1V0Tn pic.twitter.com/llz4vknTyx — Surya Reddy (@jsuryareddy) September 27, 2023 × Four-hour-long rescue operation A four-hour-long operation ensued, involving the Forest Department, Disaster Response Force (DRF) teams, and the police. With their combined efforts, they successfully captured the crocodile, ensuring its safety. Subsequently, the reptile was relocated to the Nehru Zoological Park within the city. According to Forest Officer M Joji who spoke to IANS, the crocodile likely originated from Gandipet, situated approximately 25 kilometres upstream from the city. Similar reports of crocodile sightings in the Musi River had been documented in the past, including an incident in September 2020 when a crocodile was spotted near Rajendra Nagar near Attapur. Unfortunately, despite the swift response from forest and police personnel, the crocodile managed to evade capture on that occasion. Also read | WATCH: 10-year-old Malaysian girl arranges chessboard in seconds while blindfolded, sets world record Osman Sagar, commonly known as Gandipet Lake, is more than a century old and features 15 gates that can be opened to release water into the Musi River. These lakes, Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar, were constructed outside of the city following the devastating Musi River floods in Hyderabad in 1908. These reservoirs were built based on recommendations from the renowned engineer M Visweswaraya, with the aim of preventing future catastrophic flooding within the city. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Surprise guest! Baby crocodile crawls out of open drain during downpour in India. Watch

India's northern east state of Manipur continues to make headlines - now, hundreds of students clashed with Manipur security forces after the pictures of bodies of two teenage students surfaced online. Meanwhile, India's Home Ministry repatriated a top Srinagar police officer to the violence-hit Manipur.

Manipur violence: Tensions over death of 2 students; Home Ministry sends Srinagar top cop to Manipur

Amidst a diplomatic standoff with India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's popularity has plummeted according to recent polls. Canada is also grappling with domestic issues under Trudeau's Government. Is Justin Trudeau's credibility in crisis? Watch WION Wideangle.

Trudeau's credibility crisis

india

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