Floods brought by torrential rains left a scene of destruction in Indian city of Nagpur on Sunday. As roads turned into rivers, heavy rains forced residents living in low-lying areas to evacuate to safety.

India: Heavy rains turn roads into rivers in Nagpur

In the midst of growing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, the federal anti-terror agency National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India has announced that they will seize the properties of nineteen additional terrorists from Khalistani who are on the run.

India-Canada Diplomatic Row: India to ban terrorists from entering country

Canadian Defence Minister has called relationship with India important and this amid the ongoing diplomatic standoff with India, adding that Ottawa will continue to pursue its Indo-Pacific strategy even the country continues to probe the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India Canada diplomatic row | Canada Defence Min says, 'no change in Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy'

This week, India, Canada relations hit an all-time low with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging that Ottawa was 'actively pursuing credible allegations' linking Indian agents to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India says Trudeau's claims are politically motivated. Canada and India have expelled each other's diplomats, issued travel advisories, and also suspended visa services. What does this mean for Indians living in Canada? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Explained: Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar and what is his death story?

Michael Rubin, former Pentagon official & senior fellow at the American enterprise institute says that the Canadian prime minister has made a huge mistake by accusing India of killing Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and relations between India and Canada can only improve after the exit of Justin Truduea from office.

India-Canada Diplomatic Row: Decoding the sum and substance of Justin Trudeau's allegations

Is Justin Trudeau on his way out? His allies have abandoned him, the opposition is tearing into his misfire on India, his prospects of winning next year are fading. Will the Khalistan gamble spell Trudeau's end?

Gravitas Plus: Will the Khalistan gamble spell Trudeau's end?

The India-Canada diplomatic standoff at the core of the standoff lies and murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed by two masked men in Canada's Vancouver.

Canada, India issue travel advisories

Trudeau: Canada shared intelligence on murder with India weeks ago

NIA launched a massive crackdown against the designated Khalistani terrorists amid the India-Canada row. Watch the video to know more.

Massive crackdown on Khalistani terrorists

<p>As India grapples with the sweltering heat of its summers, a less visible but equally menacing threat looms in the air: surface ozone pollution. While the nation's bustling cities and industries have been associated with the haze of particulate matter, ground-level ozone has been silently making its presence felt.</p>

<p>India, unfortunately, is home to numerous highly polluted cities in the world. While particulate matter often dominates headlines, the menace of ozone pollution has been lurking in the shadows.</p>

<p>According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Air Quality Index, ozone levels in parts of Delhi and other metropolitan cities is on a rising trend. Recent data shows ozone levels spiking to hazardous levels in major metros as temperatures climb.</p>

<p>Yet national air quality standards and plans remain heavily focussed on particulate matter (PM2.5) alone. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which was launched by the government in 2019, India's primary initiative against air pollution, has been predominantly targeting PM2.5 particles.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-india-feels-the-heat-what-happens-if-the-current-warming-trend-continues-600497">Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues?</a></p>

<p>These minuscule particles, less than 2.5 micrometres&nbsp;in diameter, can infiltrate our lungs, posing grave health risks. However, our preoccupation with particulates might be overshadowing other equally pressing threats.</p>

<p>R Suresh, Area Convener in The Energy and Resources Institute explained unlike other pollutants, ozone is not directly emitted from any source. It forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO) and methane (CH4) react in the presence of sunlight and high temperatures.</p>

<p>This reaction is influenced by the relative concentrations of VOCs and NOx, creating what scientists refer to as "ozone isopleths." Vehicle exhaust, fossil fuel combustion, gasoline vapours, chemical solvents and natural sources release NOx and VOCs into the air - the essential ingredients for ozone formation.</p>

<p>At optimum temperatures and ultraviolet radiation intensity, these hydrocarbons undergo complex photochemical reactions to form ozone pollution that builds up strongly during the day but can persist late into the night. Of particular concern are NOx emissions from transportation - diesel and petrol vehicles are the largest source of ozone-forming NOx across urban India. As NOx emissions have not fallen in proportion to PM2.5, ozone levels keep creeping upwards every summer.</p>

<p>He gave an example that, China offers a cautionary tale in this regard. Vigorous emission controls reduced PM2.5 concentrations significantly. However, this led to a surge in ozone levels. Data from 2017 to 2019 in China's Northern Central Plains indicates a 15 per cent decrease in PM2.5, potentially driving the continued anthropogenic increase in ozone, coupled with unmitigated VOC emissions. This scenario mirrors the current trajectory in India, emphasising the need for a holistic approach to air quality management.</p>

<p>Ozone can wreak havoc once inhaled into the lungs. According to the WHO's Regional Office for Europe, ozone causes breathing problems, asthma attacks, lung inflammation, coughing, chest pain and throat irritation. It reduces lung function and harms the respiratory system.</p>

<p>Numerous studies conducted globally over decades have linked both short and long-term ozone exposure to increased hospitalisations and premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular causes.</p>

<p>Ozone likely even weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to respiratory infections - a grave concern in the post-COVID era. A study done by scientists from University of Leeds, UK, says that by 2050, projections suggest that 1.6 million deaths in India could be attributed to ozone pollution.</p>

<p>But the ramifications of ozone pollution extend beyond human health. Ozone can damage crops, reducing yields and affecting food security. Ozone also cripples crop yields and harms food security. As this pollutant enters leaves through pores called stomata,&nbsp;it damages plant tissues, accelerates ageing, slows photosynthesis, stunts growth and eventually slashes crop yields. A study published in the American Geophysical Union’s Journal highlighted that the present-day ozone-induced damage to wheat and rice in India is sufficient to feed roughly 35 per cent of the nation's poor.</p>

<p>Models suggest wheat production losses of 26-35 million metric tonnes globally due to ozone pollution. Studies conducted locally at Indian Agriculture Research Institute and other institutes show ozone exposure during peak crop growth results in 10-15 per cent&nbsp;yield loss for grains like rice, wheat and soybean across parts of India.</p>

<p>With extreme heat, erratic rainfall and other climate change effects already shrinking farm incomes, unchecked ozone pollution poses a significant risk to India's agriculture sector and self-sufficiency goals.</p>

<p>Ozone isn't just toxic to humans and plants - it degrades materials as well. As a strong oxidising agent, ozone accelerates corrosion of metals, degrades polymers and erodes building materials over time. Studies estimate it causes between 3-5 per cent&nbsp;additional economic losses due to reduced service life of rubber, textiles, dyes and paints. India's prized monuments like the Taj Mahal face enhanced degradation from rising ozone pollution in urban centres&nbsp;like Agra. The economic toll from ozone's infrastructure damage will only rise over time if left unaddressed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Over a billion sea creatures died off US, Canada coast in 2021</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-a-billion-sea-creatures-died-off-us-canada-coast-in-2021-637882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Addressing this multifaceted challenge requires a comprehensive strategy. Transitioning to electric vehicles can significantly curtail NOx emissions. Promoting public transportation, carpooling, and implementing stricter emission norms can further help. But it's not just about reactive measures. Proactive monitoring, understanding the interplay of different pollutants, and public awareness campaigns are equally crucial. While PM2.5 has been the poster child of India's air pollution narrative, it's time to broaden the discourse. A myriad of pollutants, each with its unique challenges and health implications, contribute to the air we breathe. Our goal should be unequivocal: safeguard public health. Achieving this necessitates a comprehensive approach to air quality management.</p>

<p>The urgency to address ozone pollution in India is palpable. With awareness, collective responsibility, and actionable strategies, we can pave the way for cleaner air. It's not merely an environmental concern; it's about our health, our future, and the legacy we leave for subsequent generations. As India strides forward, ensuring that every breath we take is a step towards a brighter, healthier future should be paramount.</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>

<p>You can 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"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>


As India grapples with the sweltering heat of its summers, a less visible but equally menacing threat looms in the air: surface ozone pollution. While the nation's bustling cities and industries have been associated with the haze of particulate matter, ground-level ozone has been silently making its presence felt.

As India grapples with the sweltering heat of its summers, a less visible but equally menacing threat looms in the air: surface ozone pollution. While the nation's bustling cities and industries have been associated with the haze of particulate matter, ground-level ozone has been silently making its presence felt. India, unfortunately, is home to numerous highly polluted cities in the world. While particulate matter often dominates headlines, the menace of ozone pollution has been lurking in the shadows. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Air Quality Index, ozone levels in parts of Delhi and other metropolitan cities is on a rising trend. Recent data shows ozone levels spiking to hazardous levels in major metros as temperatures climb. Yet national air quality standards and plans remain heavily focussed on particulate matter (PM2.5) alone. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which was launched by the government in 2019, India's primary initiative against air pollution, has been predominantly targeting PM2.5 particles. Also read | Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues? These minuscule particles, less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, can infiltrate our lungs, posing grave health risks. However, our preoccupation with particulates might be overshadowing other equally pressing threats. R Suresh, Area Convener in The Energy and Resources Institute explained unlike other pollutants, ozone is not directly emitted from any source. It forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO) and methane (CH4) react in the presence of sunlight and high temperatures. This reaction is influenced by the relative concentrations of VOCs and NOx, creating what scientists refer to as "ozone isopleths." Vehicle exhaust, fossil fuel combustion, gasoline vapours, chemical solvents and natural sources release NOx and VOCs into the air - the essential ingredients for ozone formation. At optimum temperatures and ultraviolet radiation intensity, these hydrocarbons undergo complex photochemical reactions to form ozone pollution that builds up strongly during the day but can persist late into the night. Of particular concern are NOx emissions from transportation - diesel and petrol vehicles are the largest source of ozone-forming NOx across urban India. As NOx emissions have not fallen in proportion to PM2.5, ozone levels keep creeping upwards every summer. He gave an example that, China offers a cautionary tale in this regard. Vigorous emission controls reduced PM2.5 concentrations significantly. However, this led to a surge in ozone levels. Data from 2017 to 2019 in China's Northern Central Plains indicates a 15 per cent decrease in PM2.5, potentially driving the continued anthropogenic increase in ozone, coupled with unmitigated VOC emissions. This scenario mirrors the current trajectory in India, emphasising the need for a holistic approach to air quality management. Ozone can wreak havoc once inhaled into the lungs. According to the WHO's Regional Office for Europe, ozone causes breathing problems, asthma attacks, lung inflammation, coughing, chest pain and throat irritation. It reduces lung function and harms the respiratory system. Numerous studies conducted globally over decades have linked both short and long-term ozone exposure to increased hospitalisations and premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular causes. Ozone likely even weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to respiratory infections - a grave concern in the post-COVID era. A study done by scientists from University of Leeds, UK, says that by 2050, projections suggest that 1.6 million deaths in India could be attributed to ozone pollution. But the ramifications of ozone pollution extend beyond human health. Ozone can damage crops, reducing yields and affecting food security. Ozone also cripples crop yields and harms food security. As this pollutant enters leaves through pores called stomata, it damages plant tissues, accelerates ageing, slows photosynthesis, stunts growth and eventually slashes crop yields. A study published in the American Geophysical Union’s Journal highlighted that the present-day ozone-induced damage to wheat and rice in India is sufficient to feed roughly 35 per cent of the nation's poor. Models suggest wheat production losses of 26-35 million metric tonnes globally due to ozone pollution. Studies conducted locally at Indian Agriculture Research Institute and other institutes show ozone exposure during peak crop growth results in 10-15 per cent yield loss for grains like rice, wheat and soybean across parts of India. With extreme heat, erratic rainfall and other climate change effects already shrinking farm incomes, unchecked ozone pollution poses a significant risk to India's agriculture sector and self-sufficiency goals. Ozone isn't just toxic to humans and plants - it degrades materials as well. As a strong oxidising agent, ozone accelerates corrosion of metals, degrades polymers and erodes building materials over time. Studies estimate it causes between 3-5 per cent additional economic losses due to reduced service life of rubber, textiles, dyes and paints. India's prized monuments like the Taj Mahal face enhanced degradation from rising ozone pollution in urban centres like Agra. The economic toll from ozone's infrastructure damage will only rise over time if left unaddressed. Also watch | Over a billion sea creatures died off US, Canada coast in 2021 Addressing this multifaceted challenge requires a comprehensive strategy. Transitioning to electric vehicles can significantly curtail NOx emissions. Promoting public transportation, carpooling, and implementing stricter emission norms can further help. But it's not just about reactive measures. Proactive monitoring, understanding the interplay of different pollutants, and public awareness campaigns are equally crucial. While PM2.5 has been the poster child of India's air pollution narrative, it's time to broaden the discourse. A myriad of pollutants, each with its unique challenges and health implications, contribute to the air we breathe. Our goal should be unequivocal: safeguard public health. Achieving this necessitates a comprehensive approach to air quality management. The urgency to address ozone pollution in India is palpable. With awareness, collective responsibility, and actionable strategies, we can pave the way for cleaner air. It's not merely an environmental concern; it's about our health, our future, and the legacy we leave for subsequent generations. As India strides forward, ensuring that every breath we take is a step towards a brighter, healthier future should be paramount. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hidden danger in the air? What you need to know about rising ozone pollution

The US Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, stated that "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" helped "lead" Canada in asserting a possible connection between "agents" of the Indian government and the assassination of pro-Khalistan separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, amid the growing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada.

India-Canada Diplomatic Row | 'Shared intel' informed Trudeau of possible India hand: US Envoy

The Indian motorcycle Grand Prix is a motorcycle race that is a part of MotoGP from 2023 at the Buddh International Circuit in Dankaur near Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Bezzecchini wins inaugural Indian MotoGP

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated nine new Vande Bharat Express trains via video conferencing on Sunday (September 24), expanding the fleet of semi-high-speed trains to a total of 34.</p>

<p>Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Prime Minister Modi stated that these trains would not only greatly improve connectivity but also promote tourism across India, reported ANI.</p>

<p>“This infrastructural development has matched aspirations of 140 crore Indians and this is what the country wants now,” the prime minister said.</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> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flags off nine Vande Bharat Express trains, to help improve connectivity across 11 states namely Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, West Bengal, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand and Gujarat. <a href="https://t.co/3R3XpUhEVQ">pic.twitter.com/3R3XpUhEVQ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1705847989221326889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Faster connectivity across 11 Indian states</strong></h2>

<p>The newly launched trains are set to enhance connectivity across 11 states: Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, West Bengal, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Gujarat.</p>

<p>Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the transformative efforts made by Prime Minister Modi in the railway sector over the past nine years, resulting in cleaner railway stations with improved facilities.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-extends-wait-giving-pragyaan-rover-vikram-lander-14-more-days-to-awaken-on-lunar-surface-639033">India: ISRO extends wait, giving Pragyaan rover, Vikram lander 14 more days to awaken on lunar surface</a></p>

<h2><strong>The new Vande Bharat express trains</strong></h2>

<p>The nine Vande Bharat Express trains inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi are as follows:</p>

<ol>
	<li>Udaipur – Jaipur Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Tirunelveli-Madurai-Chennai Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Hyderabad – Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Vijayawada – Chennai (via Renigunta) Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Patna – Howrah Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Kasaragod - Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Rourkela - Bhubaneswar – Puri Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Ranchi – Howrah Vande Bharat Express</li>
	<li>Jamnagar-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>Significant reduction in travel time</strong></h2>

<p>Compared to the current fastest trains along their respective routes, the Vande Bharat Express trains promise substantial reductions in travel time:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Rourkela- Bhubaneswar – Puri and Kasaragod - Thiruvananthapuram routes will be approximately three hours shorter.</li>
	<li>Hyderabad – Bengaluru travel time will be reduced by over 2.5 hours.</li>
	<li>Tirunelveli-Madurai- Chennai journey will be shortened by more than 2 hours.</li>
	<li>Travel time between Ranchi – Howrah, Patna – Howrah, and Jamnagar-Ahmedabad will be reduced by about one hour.</li>
	<li>Udaipur - Jaipur travel time will be slashed by around half an hour.</li>
</ul>

<p>Additionally, the Rourkela- Bhubaneswar – Puri and Tirunelveli-Madurai- Chennai trains will facilitate connectivity between important religious destinations like Puri and Madurai.</p>

<h2><strong>PM's Mann ki baat</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions the India-Middle East-Europe corridor as the foundation of global trade for centuries, comparing it to the historic Silk Route, which India once thrived on as a major trading power in his monthly radio programme named 'Mann ki Baat'.</p>

<p>He highlighted India's proposal for this corridor at the recent G-20 Summit. The success of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission and its role in making the African Union a G-20 member have garnered international recognition.</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report</strong></p>

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<p>He also celebrated the recognition of Santiniketan and Hoysala temples as world heritage sites, pushing for more Indian cultural and heritage sites to gain similar recognition. As Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary approaches, Modi urged people to participate in cleanliness programmes and support local products during the upcoming festival season.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated nine new Vande Bharat Express trains via video conferencing on Sunday (September 24), expanding the fleet of semi-high-speed trains to a total of 34.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated nine new Vande Bharat Express trains via video conferencing on Sunday (September 24), expanding the fleet of semi-high-speed trains to a total of 34. Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Prime Minister Modi stated that these trains would not only greatly improve connectivity but also promote tourism across India, reported ANI. “This infrastructural development has matched aspirations of 140 crore Indians and this is what the country wants now,” the prime minister said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flags off nine Vande Bharat Express trains, to help improve connectivity across 11 states namely Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, West Bengal, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand and Gujarat. pic.twitter.com/3R3XpUhEVQ — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2023 × Faster connectivity across 11 Indian states The newly launched trains are set to enhance connectivity across 11 states: Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, West Bengal, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Gujarat. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the transformative efforts made by Prime Minister Modi in the railway sector over the past nine years, resulting in cleaner railway stations with improved facilities. Also read | India: ISRO extends wait, giving Pragyaan rover, Vikram lander 14 more days to awaken on lunar surface The new Vande Bharat express trains The nine Vande Bharat Express trains inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi are as follows: Udaipur – Jaipur Vande Bharat Express Tirunelveli-Madurai-Chennai Vande Bharat Express Hyderabad – Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express Vijayawada – Chennai (via Renigunta) Vande Bharat Express Patna – Howrah Vande Bharat Express Kasaragod - Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Express Rourkela - Bhubaneswar – Puri Vande Bharat Express Ranchi – Howrah Vande Bharat Express Jamnagar-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express Significant reduction in travel time Compared to the current fastest trains along their respective routes, the Vande Bharat Express trains promise substantial reductions in travel time: Rourkela- Bhubaneswar – Puri and Kasaragod - Thiruvananthapuram routes will be approximately three hours shorter. Hyderabad – Bengaluru travel time will be reduced by over 2.5 hours. Tirunelveli-Madurai- Chennai journey will be shortened by more than 2 hours. Travel time between Ranchi – Howrah, Patna – Howrah, and Jamnagar-Ahmedabad will be reduced by about one hour. Udaipur - Jaipur travel time will be slashed by around half an hour. Additionally, the Rourkela- Bhubaneswar – Puri and Tirunelveli-Madurai- Chennai trains will facilitate connectivity between important religious destinations like Puri and Madurai. PM's Mann ki baat Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions the India-Middle East-Europe corridor as the foundation of global trade for centuries, comparing it to the historic Silk Route, which India once thrived on as a major trading power in his monthly radio programme named 'Mann ki Baat'. He highlighted India's proposal for this corridor at the recent G-20 Summit. The success of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission and its role in making the African Union a G-20 member have garnered international recognition. Watch this report He also celebrated the recognition of Santiniketan and Hoysala temples as world heritage sites, pushing for more Indian cultural and heritage sites to gain similar recognition. As Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary approaches, Modi urged people to participate in cleanliness programmes and support local products during the upcoming festival season. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: PM Modi launches nine new Vande Bharat trains, emphasises on ‘ease of travel’

<p>It's been three days since the Indian space agency ISRO kept their metaphorical eyes and ears wide open, awaiting a signal from the re-awakened Chandrayaan-3. However, there has been no telemetry data coming from the Vikram Lander thus far, WION has learned.</p>

<p>Telemetry data is a technical term that refers to the regular status update and health report that a spacecraft sends back to its controllers on Earth. While all is silent on the Moon, memories have arrived from Mars, as September 24th, 2014 is when India's maiden Mars Orbiter Mission Mangalyaan entered Martian orbit and began circling the red planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-extends-wait-giving-pragyaan-rover-vikram-lander-14-more-days-to-awaken-on-lunar-surface-639033">India: ISRO extends wait, giving Pragyaan rover, Vikram lander 14 more days to awaken on lunar surface</a></p>

<p>Launched on November 5th, 2013, on board the PSLV rocket, Mangalyaan continues to be India's furthest foray into space as the craft traveled almost 10 months in space to reach its destination which was 401 million kilometres away.</p>

<p>For context, India's moon missions in the Chandrayaan series traveled a distance of 3.84 lakh kilometres. The craft entered Martian orbit on September 24th, 2014 and served its scientific purpose and mission until September 2022. Designed for a mission life of six months, the craft lived for nine years and provided valuable scientific data about the Red planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-walk-the-talk-jaishankar-on-indias-unwavering-commitment-to-south-south-cooperation-639028">'We walk the talk...': Jaishankar on India's unwavering commitment to South-South cooperation</a></p>

<p>As far as Chandrayaan-3 is concerned, it's been three days since September 22nd, which has been the expected re-awakening date. While the deep space antennae of ISRO and the partner agencies from abroad are peering at the moon to receive any signal emissions from the Vikram lander, there is no progress so far.</p>

<p>ISRO plans to wait out the entire duration of the Lunar Day (which ends in the first week of October), to see if Chandrayaan-3 will have a second lease of life.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mann-ki-baat-105th-edition-g20-doubled-the-joy-of-every-indian-says-indian-pm-modi-639102">Mann Ki Baat 105th Edition: ‘G20 doubled the joy of every Indian,’ says Indian PM Modi</a></strong></p>

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<p>It must be remembered that Chandrayaan-3 has been a complete success and the mission's 14-day (1 Lunar day) planned life ended on a high note after the lander was made to perform a hop test on the moon.</p>
</section>

<p>ISRO knew fully well that surviving the Lunar night(where temperatures could fall to minus 200 degrees Celsius), was very tough and challenging. All lunar missions that are meant to survive the Lunar night are equipped with a Radioisotope thermoelectric generator(a sort of Nuclear battery).</p>

<p>However, Chandrayaan-3 doesn't have such a device that would both power it and keep it warm through the night. This is because India hasn't developed such a technology, so far. The possible re-awakening is nothing more than a bonus or a life extension for the already completed mission.</p>

<p>One might ask why ISRO did not consider insulating the Lunar lander and rover to survive the night, but any such alteration would change the design and drastically increase the payload mass of the spacecraft and pose challenges to the launch mission.</p>

<p>This is because India's LVM3 rocket has a payload-lifting capability of 4 tons to high-earth orbits and payloads have to be within that limit. The Chandrayaan-3 craft(comprising propulsion module, lander, and rover) weighed a little over 3.9 tons, so the payload capacity of the vehicle was utilized almost entirely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports say that the rear wheels of the Pragyan rover were not able to make a clear imprint of the Indian National emblem and the ISRO logo on the Lunar surface, owing to lumpy soil. The imprinting of the logos on the Lunar surface depends on a lot of factors - the type of soil at the site, the mass of the rover, the depth of the impression on the wheel, etc.</p>

<p>It must be remembered that the Pragyan rover weighed only 26kgs and with lunar gravity being 1/6th that of Earth, it would weigh less than 4.5kgs there.</p>

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It's been three days since the Indian space agency ISRO kept their metaphorical eyes and ears wide open, awaiting a signal from the re-awakened Chandrayaan-3. However, there has been no telemetry data coming from the Vikram Lander thus far, WION has learned.

It's been three days since the Indian space agency ISRO kept their metaphorical eyes and ears wide open, awaiting a signal from the re-awakened Chandrayaan-3. However, there has been no telemetry data coming from the Vikram Lander thus far, WION has learned. Telemetry data is a technical term that refers to the regular status update and health report that a spacecraft sends back to its controllers on Earth. While all is silent on the Moon, memories have arrived from Mars, as September 24th, 2014 is when India's maiden Mars Orbiter Mission Mangalyaan entered Martian orbit and began circling the red planet. Also Read | India: ISRO extends wait, giving Pragyaan rover, Vikram lander 14 more days to awaken on lunar surface Launched on November 5th, 2013, on board the PSLV rocket, Mangalyaan continues to be India's furthest foray into space as the craft traveled almost 10 months in space to reach its destination which was 401 million kilometres away. For context, India's moon missions in the Chandrayaan series traveled a distance of 3.84 lakh kilometres. The craft entered Martian orbit on September 24th, 2014 and served its scientific purpose and mission until September 2022. Designed for a mission life of six months, the craft lived for nine years and provided valuable scientific data about the Red planet. Also Read | 'We walk the talk...': Jaishankar on India's unwavering commitment to South-South cooperation As far as Chandrayaan-3 is concerned, it's been three days since September 22nd, which has been the expected re-awakening date. While the deep space antennae of ISRO and the partner agencies from abroad are peering at the moon to receive any signal emissions from the Vikram lander, there is no progress so far. ISRO plans to wait out the entire duration of the Lunar Day (which ends in the first week of October), to see if Chandrayaan-3 will have a second lease of life. Watch | Mann Ki Baat 105th Edition: ‘G20 doubled the joy of every Indian,’ says Indian PM Modi × It must be remembered that Chandrayaan-3 has been a complete success and the mission's 14-day (1 Lunar day) planned life ended on a high note after the lander was made to perform a hop test on the moon. ISRO knew fully well that surviving the Lunar night(where temperatures could fall to minus 200 degrees Celsius), was very tough and challenging. All lunar missions that are meant to survive the Lunar night are equipped with a Radioisotope thermoelectric generator(a sort of Nuclear battery). However, Chandrayaan-3 doesn't have such a device that would both power it and keep it warm through the night. This is because India hasn't developed such a technology, so far. The possible re-awakening is nothing more than a bonus or a life extension for the already completed mission. One might ask why ISRO did not consider insulating the Lunar lander and rover to survive the night, but any such alteration would change the design and drastically increase the payload mass of the spacecraft and pose challenges to the launch mission. This is because India's LVM3 rocket has a payload-lifting capability of 4 tons to high-earth orbits and payloads have to be within that limit. The Chandrayaan-3 craft(comprising propulsion module, lander, and rover) weighed a little over 3.9 tons, so the payload capacity of the vehicle was utilized almost entirely. Reports say that the rear wheels of the Pragyan rover were not able to make a clear imprint of the Indian National emblem and the ISRO logo on the Lunar surface, owing to lumpy soil. The imprinting of the logos on the Lunar surface depends on a lot of factors - the type of soil at the site, the mass of the rover, the depth of the impression on the wheel, etc. It must be remembered that the Pragyan rover weighed only 26kgs and with lunar gravity being 1/6th that of Earth, it would weigh less than 4.5kgs there. 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. ×

As India awaits message from Moon, memories arrive from Mars

<p>Scientists are holding onto hope as temperatures rise on the Moon, anticipating the revival of the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover until the next lunar sunset on October 6.&nbsp;This effectively means ISRO has extended its wait for another 14 days, hoping for the revival of the lander and the rover.</p>

<p>As the Sun graced the lunar horizon, efforts to reawaken these dormant spacecraft commenced, marking the potential beginning of a "bonus" phase for the Chandrayaan-3 mission, reported the Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>However, amidst this optimism, uncertainty looms regarding the timing of contact re-establishment with these instruments.</p>

<p>ISRO Chairman S Somanath acknowledged&nbsp;the unpredictability of this task, stating, "We don’t know when it will wake up. It could be tomorrow, or it could also be on the final day of the lunar day. But we are trying. It will be a great achievement if the lander and rover wake up.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/data-lab-with-a-budget-less-than-hollywoods-interstellar-indias-moon-mission-is-gaining-momentum-628393">Data Lab | With a budget less than Hollywood's 'Interstellar', India's Chandrayaan-3 is a big success</a></p>

<h2><strong>Surviving lunar night</strong></h2>

<p>The lander and rover face the harsh challenge of surviving a lunar night that spans 14 Earth days.</p>

<p>During this period, they endure complete darkness and plummeting temperatures, reaching as low as -200 to -250 degrees Celsius — a harsh environment for their batteries, which store vital power.</p>

<p>Somanath reassured that while the rover has been thoroughly tested to withstand these extreme temperatures, the lander Vikram, which faltered in its previous mission, has not.</p>

<p>However, the similarities in design between Pragyaan and Vikram offer hope that the survival strategies employed for the rover could also benefit the lander.</p>

<p>ISRO meticulously prepared for the revival attempts, ensuring that before their slumber, the instruments had fully charged batteries and solar panels optimised to receive sunlight immediately upon sunrise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the best-case scenario, when the commands are sent to awaken the lander and rover, the rover will once again traverse the lunar surface, while the equipment aboard the lander will recommence its data collection process.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 is the theme for a Ganesh pandal in India</strong></p>

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<p>Teams at the ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) have embarked on the task of feeding commands to revive these instruments. Success in recharging these machines could extend the mission's lifespan, allowing scientists to accumulate additional valuable lunar samples.</p>

<p>The Chandrayaan-3 mission marked a historic feat on August 23 when ISRO's spacecraft successfully landed near the lunar south pole.&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists are holding onto hope as temperatures rise on the Moon, anticipating the revival of the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover until the next lunar sunset on October 6.

Scientists are holding onto hope as temperatures rise on the Moon, anticipating the revival of the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover until the next lunar sunset on October 6. This effectively means ISRO has extended its wait for another 14 days, hoping for the revival of the lander and the rover. As the Sun graced the lunar horizon, efforts to reawaken these dormant spacecraft commenced, marking the potential beginning of a "bonus" phase for the Chandrayaan-3 mission, reported the Hindustan Times. However, amidst this optimism, uncertainty looms regarding the timing of contact re-establishment with these instruments. ISRO Chairman S Somanath acknowledged the unpredictability of this task, stating, "We don’t know when it will wake up. It could be tomorrow, or it could also be on the final day of the lunar day. But we are trying. It will be a great achievement if the lander and rover wake up.” Also read | Data Lab | With a budget less than Hollywood's 'Interstellar', India's Chandrayaan-3 is a big success Surviving lunar night The lander and rover face the harsh challenge of surviving a lunar night that spans 14 Earth days. During this period, they endure complete darkness and plummeting temperatures, reaching as low as -200 to -250 degrees Celsius — a harsh environment for their batteries, which store vital power. Somanath reassured that while the rover has been thoroughly tested to withstand these extreme temperatures, the lander Vikram, which faltered in its previous mission, has not. However, the similarities in design between Pragyaan and Vikram offer hope that the survival strategies employed for the rover could also benefit the lander. ISRO meticulously prepared for the revival attempts, ensuring that before their slumber, the instruments had fully charged batteries and solar panels optimised to receive sunlight immediately upon sunrise. In the best-case scenario, when the commands are sent to awaken the lander and rover, the rover will once again traverse the lunar surface, while the equipment aboard the lander will recommence its data collection process. Also watch | ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 is the theme for a Ganesh pandal in India Teams at the ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) have embarked on the task of feeding commands to revive these instruments. Success in recharging these machines could extend the mission's lifespan, allowing scientists to accumulate additional valuable lunar samples. The Chandrayaan-3 mission marked a historic feat on August 23 when ISRO's spacecraft successfully landed near the lunar south pole. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: ISRO extends wait, giving Pragyaan rover, Vikram lander 14 more days to awaken on lunar surface

<p>Tensions have escalated between India and Canada following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's assertion in Parliament that the Indian government may have "potential links" to the killing of Khalistani&nbsp;terrorist Hardeep&nbsp;Singh Nijjar in Canada. He went ahead with the accusations against India, asking the latter to allow justice to take its course.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After rebutting the accusations,&nbsp;India replied&nbsp;by temporarily halting&nbsp;visa services for Canadians. This situation not only has ramifications&nbsp;for trade and immigration but also holds the potential to affect the relationships these countries share with their Western allies.</p>

<p>The United States, for the first time since diplomatic tensions, confirmed officially that there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" which informed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the killing.&nbsp;But what is the Five Eyes, and why has it taken centre&nbsp;stage?</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding the Five Eyes Alliance</strong></h2>

<p>The Five Eyes Alliance is characterised by a unique multilateral arrangement where partner countries share a wide range of intelligence, united by common principles of rule of law, robust human rights, and a shared language, according to the The National Counter intelligence and Security Center.</p>

<p>This alliance plays a crucial role in safeguarding their shared national interests by facilitating information exchange.</p>

<p>The Five Eyes, often referred to as FVEY, constitutes a coalition consisting of five intelligence agencies:</p>

<ol>
	<li>United States</li>
	<li>United Kingdom</li>
	<li>Australia</li>
	<li>New Zealand</li>
	<li>Canada</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>Historical roots and evolution</strong></h2>

<p>The origins of the alliance trace back to World War II when the UK and the US decided to share intelligence after successfully breaking German and Japanese codes.</p>

<p>The UKUSA agreement, which Canada joined in 1949, and later New Zealand and Australia in 1956, solidified the alliance.</p>

<p>While its existence was known since the 1980s, the official acknowledgement of the UKUSA agreement came in 2010 when its files were released.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-extortion-to-buying-fancy-yachts-this-is-how-khalistanis-funded-and-flourished-639044">From extortion to buying fancy yachts, this is how Khalistanis funded and flourished</a></p>

<h2><strong>Functioning of the Five Eyes Alliance</strong></h2>

<p>The Five Eyes countries engage in intelligence gathering and security cooperation, aligning closely in recent years due to shared interests, such as addressing the rise of China.</p>

<p>They maintain this closeness through the Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council, an entity that facilitates the exchange of views, best practices, and annual in-person meetings among non-political intelligence oversight and review agencies of the member countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Nijjar ran arms training camps in Canada, funded attacks in India: Intel</strong></p>

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<p>Despite their proximity, the Five Eyes countries do not always align in their foreign policies. Notably, New Zealand's stance on certain Chinese actions differs from that of the other four countries due to its deep trade ties with China. The US has also sought to exert its influence through other groupings like the Quad and AUKUS, involving like-minded countries on security matters.</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar?</strong></h2>

<p>Hardeep Singh Nijjar had affiliations with the banned Indian separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Within the SFJ hierarchy, he held the position of 'Number 2' after Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Nijjar's origins trace back to Jalandhar's Bharsingh Pura village, and he relocated to Canada in 1996, reported ANI.</p>

<p>Although initially&nbsp;a plumber in Canada, Nijjar's financial standing saw a remarkable uptick in recent years due to his involvement in pro-Khalistan activities.</p>

<p>Nijjar's engagement with terrorism commenced with his membership in Babbar Khalsa International, led by Jagtar Singh Tara.</p>

<p>Later, he established his own group, Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). He played a substantial role in identifying, connecting, training, and financing Khalistani cells in India, leading to over 10 FIRs against him.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<p>In 2014, Nijjar masterminded the assassination of self-proclaimed spiritual leader Baba Bhaniara.</p>

<p>In 2015, he conducted a training camp in Canada for Mandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was subsequently dispatched to Punjab with the mission of targeting Shiv Sena leaders. Mandeep was arrested in June 2016.</p>

<p>In November 2020, Nijjar partnered with fellow gangster Arsh Dalla, residing abroad, and they became involved in the murder of Manohar Lal, a follower of the Dera Sacha Sauda, in 2021.</p>

<p>The expulsion of the Indian diplomat adds another layer of complexity to the already fraught relationship between Canada and India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A sophisticated financial network</strong></h2>

<p>The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has uncovered a sophisticated financial network connecting prominent Khalistani militants and gangsters based in Canada to funds generated in India through extortion, smuggling, and various illicit activities.</p>

<p>This illegal&nbsp;wealth not only sustains their violent undertakings in both India and Canada but also finds unexpected outlets for investment, including ventures such as yachts, movies, and even the Canadian Premier League.</p>

<p>The investigation has shed light on how the money amassed by gangsters through activities like extortion, smuggling, and other illegal means has been channelled into clubs and bars in Thailand as part of their investment strategy, underscoring the international scope of these financial operations, reported the Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The NIA's probe has unveiled a series of financial transactions spanning from 2019 to 2021. These transactions involved the transfer of sums ranging from ₹5 lakh ($6.5K) to ₹60 lakh ($72.2K) by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to recipients in Canada and Thailand through the hawala system.</p>

<p>Lawrence Bishnoi, who collaborated closely with Khalistani groups in Canada, particularly with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) leader Lakhbir Singh Landa, played a pivotal role in orchestrating this illicit operation.</p>

<p>According to the NIA's charge sheet, the funds collected through activities such as extortion, illegal liquor trade, arms smuggling, and other unlawful endeavours were funnelled to Canada, specifically to an individual known as Satbir Singh alias Sam. These funds served a dual purpose – further investment and financing the radical activities of pro-Khalistan elements (PKEs).</p>
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Tensions have escalated between India and Canada following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's assertion in Parliament that the Indian government may have "potential links" to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

Tensions have escalated between India and Canada following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's assertion in Parliament that the Indian government may have "potential links" to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. He went ahead with the accusations against India, asking the latter to allow justice to take its course. After rebutting the accusations, India replied by temporarily halting visa services for Canadians. This situation not only has ramifications for trade and immigration but also holds the potential to affect the relationships these countries share with their Western allies. The United States, for the first time since diplomatic tensions, confirmed officially that there was "shared intelligence among Five Eyes partners" which informed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's possible involvement in the killing. But what is the Five Eyes, and why has it taken centre stage? Understanding the Five Eyes Alliance The Five Eyes Alliance is characterised by a unique multilateral arrangement where partner countries share a wide range of intelligence, united by common principles of rule of law, robust human rights, and a shared language, according to the The National Counter intelligence and Security Center. This alliance plays a crucial role in safeguarding their shared national interests by facilitating information exchange. The Five Eyes, often referred to as FVEY, constitutes a coalition consisting of five intelligence agencies: United States United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Canada Historical roots and evolution The origins of the alliance trace back to World War II when the UK and the US decided to share intelligence after successfully breaking German and Japanese codes. The UKUSA agreement, which Canada joined in 1949, and later New Zealand and Australia in 1956, solidified the alliance. While its existence was known since the 1980s, the official acknowledgement of the UKUSA agreement came in 2010 when its files were released. Also read | From extortion to buying fancy yachts, this is how Khalistanis funded and flourished Functioning of the Five Eyes Alliance The Five Eyes countries engage in intelligence gathering and security cooperation, aligning closely in recent years due to shared interests, such as addressing the rise of China. They maintain this closeness through the Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council, an entity that facilitates the exchange of views, best practices, and annual in-person meetings among non-political intelligence oversight and review agencies of the member countries. Also watch | Nijjar ran arms training camps in Canada, funded attacks in India: Intel Despite their proximity, the Five Eyes countries do not always align in their foreign policies. Notably, New Zealand's stance on certain Chinese actions differs from that of the other four countries due to its deep trade ties with China. The US has also sought to exert its influence through other groupings like the Quad and AUKUS, involving like-minded countries on security matters. Who was Hardeep Singh Nijjar? Hardeep Singh Nijjar had affiliations with the banned Indian separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Within the SFJ hierarchy, he held the position of 'Number 2' after Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Nijjar's origins trace back to Jalandhar's Bharsingh Pura village, and he relocated to Canada in 1996, reported ANI. Although initially a plumber in Canada, Nijjar's financial standing saw a remarkable uptick in recent years due to his involvement in pro-Khalistan activities. Nijjar's engagement with terrorism commenced with his membership in Babbar Khalsa International, led by Jagtar Singh Tara. Later, he established his own group, Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). He played a substantial role in identifying, connecting, training, and financing Khalistani cells in India, leading to over 10 FIRs against him. In 2014, Nijjar masterminded the assassination of self-proclaimed spiritual leader Baba Bhaniara. In 2015, he conducted a training camp in Canada for Mandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was subsequently dispatched to Punjab with the mission of targeting Shiv Sena leaders. Mandeep was arrested in June 2016. In November 2020, Nijjar partnered with fellow gangster Arsh Dalla, residing abroad, and they became involved in the murder of Manohar Lal, a follower of the Dera Sacha Sauda, in 2021. The expulsion of the Indian diplomat adds another layer of complexity to the already fraught relationship between Canada and India. A sophisticated financial network The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has uncovered a sophisticated financial network connecting prominent Khalistani militants and gangsters based in Canada to funds generated in India through extortion, smuggling, and various illicit activities. This illegal wealth not only sustains their violent undertakings in both India and Canada but also finds unexpected outlets for investment, including ventures such as yachts, movies, and even the Canadian Premier League. The investigation has shed light on how the money amassed by gangsters through activities like extortion, smuggling, and other illegal means has been channelled into clubs and bars in Thailand as part of their investment strategy, underscoring the international scope of these financial operations, reported the Hindustan Times. The NIA's probe has unveiled a series of financial transactions spanning from 2019 to 2021. These transactions involved the transfer of sums ranging from ₹5 lakh ($6.5K) to ₹60 lakh ($72.2K) by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to recipients in Canada and Thailand through the hawala system. Lawrence Bishnoi, who collaborated closely with Khalistani groups in Canada, particularly with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) leader Lakhbir Singh Landa, played a pivotal role in orchestrating this illicit operation. According to the NIA's charge sheet, the funds collected through activities such as extortion, illegal liquor trade, arms smuggling, and other unlawful endeavours were funnelled to Canada, specifically to an individual known as Satbir Singh alias Sam. These funds served a dual purpose – further investment and financing the radical activities of pro-Khalistan elements (PKEs). WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | What's the 'Five Eyes' intelligence alliance, & how it led to Canada's claim on Nijjar killing?

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: NIA launched a massive crackdown against the designated Khalistani terrorists amid the India-Canada row. Watch the video to know more.

Crackdown on Khalistani terror | Nepal PM in China

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has reiterated that there are "credible reasons" to believe that Indian agents may have been behind the murder of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

US Confirms intel sharing made Canada allege India's role

<p>Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar said Saturday (September 23) that India "walks the talk" when it comes to South-South cooperation. He made these comments while addressing India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development in New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian foreign minister also spoke on how the G20 Summit hosted by New Delhi laid a foundation to look at development prospects with optimism.&nbsp;However, he also called India's G20 Presidency challenging owing to “very sharp East-West polarisation and a very deep North-South divide.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-committee-on-one-nation-one-election-holds-first-meeting-to-invite-political-parties-for-views-638995">High-Level Committee on 'one nation, one election' holds first meeting, to invite political parties for views</a></p>

<p>During his address, Jaishankar said, “Your presence means a lot to us. It also expresses the sentiments that you feel for India and underlines the import of South-South cooperation. We met just a few weeks after the New Delhi G20 Summit, a summit which took place on the theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future'.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now, it was a challenging summit. It was actually a challenging presidency, and it was challenging because we were confronting a very sharp East-West polarisation as well as a very deep North-South divide. But we were very determined as the Presidency of the G20 to make sure that this organisation on which the world really had put so much hope was able to get back to its core agenda,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-sailors-stranded-in-violence-hit-yemen-brought-back-638985">Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen brought back</a></p>

<p>Jaishankar laid particular emphasis on how the development of Global South was India's top agenda at the G20 Summit. It is to be noted that India has always been a strong supporter of increasing South-South cooperation. This is even more evident as the African Union joined the G20 bloc this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that it is becoming clearer that geopolitics calculation is impacting basic requirements of countries like food and energy. The minister also affirmed that India will be a partner, contributor and collaborator to deal with development challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar&nbsp;said that G20's "core agenda was of global growth and development. So it was appropriate that we started our G20 Presidency by convening the voice of the Global South Summit. An exercise which involved 125 nations of the south of which most of you in some capacity participated."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-canadas-trudeau-provoking-india-639011">Why is Canada's Trudeau Provoking India?</a></strong></p>

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<p>“Now, during the course of that exercise and the deliberations which took place through the various ministerial tracks and engagement groups, it was very clear to us that the Global South, in addition to bearing the consequences of structural inequities and historical burdens, was plagued by the impact of … and economic concentration, was suffering from the devastating consequences of the COVID and was … by conflict, tensions and disputes which have stressed and distorted the international economy," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar, along with many other world leaders, is in New York to attend the UN General Assembly. Indian foreign minister will address UNGA on September 26, as per Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Following his visit to New York, Jaishankar is due to visit Washington, DC.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar said Saturday (September 23) that India "walks the talk" when it comes to South-South cooperation. He made these comments while addressing India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development in New York.

Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar said Saturday (September 23) that India "walks the talk" when it comes to South-South cooperation. He made these comments while addressing India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development in New York. The Indian foreign minister also spoke on how the G20 Summit hosted by New Delhi laid a foundation to look at development prospects with optimism. However, he also called India's G20 Presidency challenging owing to “very sharp East-West polarisation and a very deep North-South divide.” Also Read | High-Level Committee on 'one nation, one election' holds first meeting, to invite political parties for views During his address, Jaishankar said, “Your presence means a lot to us. It also expresses the sentiments that you feel for India and underlines the import of South-South cooperation. We met just a few weeks after the New Delhi G20 Summit, a summit which took place on the theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future'.” “Now, it was a challenging summit. It was actually a challenging presidency, and it was challenging because we were confronting a very sharp East-West polarisation as well as a very deep North-South divide. But we were very determined as the Presidency of the G20 to make sure that this organisation on which the world really had put so much hope was able to get back to its core agenda,” he added. Also Read | Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen brought back Jaishankar laid particular emphasis on how the development of Global South was India's top agenda at the G20 Summit. It is to be noted that India has always been a strong supporter of increasing South-South cooperation. This is even more evident as the African Union joined the G20 bloc this year. He said that it is becoming clearer that geopolitics calculation is impacting basic requirements of countries like food and energy. The minister also affirmed that India will be a partner, contributor and collaborator to deal with development challenges. Jaishankar said that G20's "core agenda was of global growth and development. So it was appropriate that we started our G20 Presidency by convening the voice of the Global South Summit. An exercise which involved 125 nations of the south of which most of you in some capacity participated." Watch | Why is Canada's Trudeau Provoking India? × “Now, during the course of that exercise and the deliberations which took place through the various ministerial tracks and engagement groups, it was very clear to us that the Global South, in addition to bearing the consequences of structural inequities and historical burdens, was plagued by the impact of … and economic concentration, was suffering from the devastating consequences of the COVID and was … by conflict, tensions and disputes which have stressed and distorted the international economy," he added. Jaishankar, along with many other world leaders, is in New York to attend the UN General Assembly. Indian foreign minister will address UNGA on September 26, as per Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Following his visit to New York, Jaishankar is due to visit Washington, DC. 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. ×

'We walk the talk...': Jaishankar on India's unwavering commitment to South-South cooperation

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