India prepares itself to celebrate its 90th Air Force Day. Every year on October 8, the country celebrates this day in the presence of the president, IAF chief, and senior officials from the armed forces. But what's special this year?

The Indian Air Force, also known as the "Bhartiya Vayu Sena",&nbsp;is a crucial part of India's armed forces. This day was first introduced by the British Empire in October 1932 and came into effect in the year 1933.

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90 years!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtmanirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtmanirbharBharat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzadiKaAmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzadiKaAmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://t.co/pxe5hZW8mW">pic.twitter.com/pxe5hZW8mW</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1577225086649573377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Well, this year, nearly 80 planes, including a single-engine MiG-21, will put on a grand show at Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The army chief will also unveil a new combat uniform.&nbsp;

On October 8, the planes will display five formations, including a three-aircraft formation by LCH, an Eklavya formation, Sekhon and more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/25-dead-after-bus-falls-into-500-metre-gorge-in-indias-uttarakhand-state-522520">Also read |&nbsp;25 dead after bus falls into 500-metre gorge in India’s Uttarakhand state</a>

The Indian government is putting all its efforts into making the country's defence game strong. Recently, 15 Made-in-India Light Combat Helicopters were added to the defence, with 10 going to the air force and five to the army. The LCH will be a part of the flypast in a three-aircraft formation.&nbsp;

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90 years of Indian Air Force. 
 
Detailed planning, precision and coordination : the three major requirements for a good flypast. 
 
IAF preparations are in full swing for the aerial symphony on 08 Oct 22 over Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh. 
 
📸 - AVM PS Karkare <a href="https://t.co/DVmN3eL2tG">pic.twitter.com/DVmN3eL2tG</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1577491177808723968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Another formation for the celebration will be "Sekhon," which will have a Rafale, Tejas, Mirage 2000, and Jaguar.

Two other formations to be staged will be the Globe and Eklavya formations. For Globe formation, a C-17 heavy lifting aircraft and nine Hawk-132 from the Surya Kiran team will be deployed. The Eklavya formation will be led by Mi-35 attacking helicopters with four Apache choppers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ins-tarkash-is-indias-first-ever-warship-to-patrol-gulf-of-guinea-41-day-mission-completed-522420">Also read |&nbsp;INS Tarkash is India's first-ever warship to patrol Gulf of Guinea; 41-day mission completed</a>

Finally, the Big Boy formation will be led by an IL-76 and two AN-32 aircraft.&nbsp;

Cheetah and Chetak helicopters will not be a part of the celebrations.&nbsp;An Indian Air Force officer told reporters that on October 8, there will be a parade in the morning and then the chief will unveil new uniforms&nbsp;for air force personnel, PTI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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India prepares itself to celebrate its 90th Air Force Day. Every year on October 8, the country celebrates this day in the presence of the president, IAF chief, and senior officials from the armed forces.

India prepares itself to celebrate its 90th Air Force Day. Every year on October 8, the country celebrates this day in the presence of the president, IAF chief, and senior officials from the armed forces. But what's special this year? The Indian Air Force, also known as the "Bhartiya Vayu Sena", is a crucial part of India's armed forces. This day was first introduced by the British Empire in October 1932 and came into effect in the year 1933. 90 years!#AtmanirbharBharat #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav pic.twitter.com/pxe5hZW8mW — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 4, 2022 × Well, this year, nearly 80 planes, including a single-engine MiG-21, will put on a grand show at Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The army chief will also unveil a new combat uniform. On October 8, the planes will display five formations, including a three-aircraft formation by LCH, an Eklavya formation, Sekhon and more. Also read | 25 dead after bus falls into 500-metre gorge in India’s Uttarakhand state The Indian government is putting all its efforts into making the country's defence game strong. Recently, 15 Made-in-India Light Combat Helicopters were added to the defence, with 10 going to the air force and five to the army. The LCH will be a part of the flypast in a three-aircraft formation. 90 years of Indian Air Force. Detailed planning, precision and coordination : the three major requirements for a good flypast. IAF preparations are in full swing for the aerial symphony on 08 Oct 22 over Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh. 📸 - AVM PS Karkare pic.twitter.com/DVmN3eL2tG — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 5, 2022 × Another formation for the celebration will be "Sekhon," which will have a Rafale, Tejas, Mirage 2000, and Jaguar. Two other formations to be staged will be the Globe and Eklavya formations. For Globe formation, a C-17 heavy lifting aircraft and nine Hawk-132 from the Surya Kiran team will be deployed. The Eklavya formation will be led by Mi-35 attacking helicopters with four Apache choppers. Also read | INS Tarkash is India's first-ever warship to patrol Gulf of Guinea; 41-day mission completed Finally, the Big Boy formation will be led by an IL-76 and two AN-32 aircraft. Cheetah and Chetak helicopters will not be a part of the celebrations. An Indian Air Force officer told reporters that on October 8, there will be a parade in the morning and then the chief will unveil new uniforms for air force personnel, PTI reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India prepares to celebrate its 90th Indian Air Force Day. Take a look!

In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30.

According to the minutes of the meeting held on September 22, and accessed by PTI, a notification revoking the Rs 500 fine on not wearing masks is expected to be issued by the health department on Wednesday.

The decision to revoke the mask mandate was anything but unanimous and differences abound, as per the minutes of the meeting issued by Sushil Singh, special CEO, disaster management.

Chief Secretary of Delhi Naresh Kumar had in the meeting said that the current situation was comfortable but the guard against Coronavirus could not be lowered as the variants keep coming up.

The health ministry has advised caution in view of multiple festivals from September 26 to December 31 and likely mass gatherings across the country.

Niti Aayog member Dr V K Paul had in the meeting emphasised that surveillance was still needed as the virus is still present and its mutations and variants have emerged from time to time.

Dr Rajendra Singh, member NDMA, came up with a suggestion that wearing of masks be continued up to November 15 in view of coming festivals.

Delhi Police Commissioner sought clarity and complete set of instructions on the enforcement of mask mandate.

The Chief Secretary suggested that a 'self discipline mode'&nbsp;may be tried now as the public is well aware of its responsibilities and what constitutes a COVID-appropriate behaviour.

Revenue minister Kailash Gahlot in the same meeting reiterated that there were "practical difficulties" in the enforcement of the mask mandate, and stressed the need to relax the rule.

Kunal Satyarthi, joint secretary NDMA, agreed with him saying that wearing of masks may not be advisable in the present circumstances, the minutes said.

The meeting chaired by LG V K Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in attendance, summarily agreed that though wearing of masks was useful in maintaining a Covid -appropriate behaviour, the order of compulsory wearing of masks under the Epidemic Act may not be extended beyond September 30.

The DDMA also agreed that the fine of Rs 500 for not wearing masks in public places will stand withdrawn after September 30, it added.

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In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30.

In a meeting held last month, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) had emphasised not lowering guard against COVID due to upcoming festivals even as it decided to do away with wearing face masks after September 30. According to the minutes of the meeting held on September 22, and accessed by PTI, a notification revoking the Rs 500 fine on not wearing masks is expected to be issued by the health department on Wednesday. The decision to revoke the mask mandate was anything but unanimous and differences abound, as per the minutes of the meeting issued by Sushil Singh, special CEO, disaster management. Chief Secretary of Delhi Naresh Kumar had in the meeting said that the current situation was comfortable but the guard against Coronavirus could not be lowered as the variants keep coming up. The health ministry has advised caution in view of multiple festivals from September 26 to December 31 and likely mass gatherings across the country. Niti Aayog member Dr V K Paul had in the meeting emphasised that surveillance was still needed as the virus is still present and its mutations and variants have emerged from time to time. Dr Rajendra Singh, member NDMA, came up with a suggestion that wearing of masks be continued up to November 15 in view of coming festivals. Delhi Police Commissioner sought clarity and complete set of instructions on the enforcement of mask mandate. The Chief Secretary suggested that a 'self discipline mode' may be tried now as the public is well aware of its responsibilities and what constitutes a COVID-appropriate behaviour. Revenue minister Kailash Gahlot in the same meeting reiterated that there were "practical difficulties" in the enforcement of the mask mandate, and stressed the need to relax the rule. Kunal Satyarthi, joint secretary NDMA, agreed with him saying that wearing of masks may not be advisable in the present circumstances, the minutes said. The meeting chaired by LG V K Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in attendance, summarily agreed that though wearing of masks was useful in maintaining a Covid -appropriate behaviour, the order of compulsory wearing of masks under the Epidemic Act may not be extended beyond September 30. The DDMA also agreed that the fine of Rs 500 for not wearing masks in public places will stand withdrawn after September 30, it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Officials not on same page on revocation of mask mandate in Delhi, reveals document

India is becoming increasingly important in Apple's Global lineup. Reports saying exports of India made iPhones crossed 1 billion dollars in the five months since April. The outbound shipments of India made iPhones taking place mainly to Europe and West Asia.

WION Dispatch: Export of India-made iPhones top $1BN

Four mountaineers were killed in an avalanche in India's Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, eight people have been rescued and rescuers are searching for more people.

Avalanche in India's Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, four killed and several missing

India's Mars mission, Mangalyaan, has stopped communicating with the Earth. ISRO has said that Mangalyaan has run out of fuel, 8 years after it entered Mars' orbit. Did Mangalyaan conk off before time or did the mission exceed expectations? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Farewell Mangalyaan: India's Mars mission comes to an end

In signs of an impending slowdown in the Indian Information Technology sector, reports say Indian tech majors have revoked a large number of employment letters that they had given to students. The IT firms including Wipro, Infosys and Tech Mahindra have recently cancelled employment offers after months of delay in the onboarding process.

Indian tech majors Wipro, Infosys, Mahindra reject graduates after giving offer letters: Reports

Information technology graduates in India have now begun to hunt for other jobs after the tech giants like Wipro, Infosys and TCS have reportedly delayed the onboarding process for more than six months.

Indian IT graduates claim tech giants delaying onboarding

IIndian state Jammu and Kashmir's DG Prisons, Hemant Kumar Lohia, was found dead under suspicious circumstances at a house in the Udaywala area of Jammu. The police have suspected murder as his domestic help is currently absconding and teams have been formed to nab him.

India: J&K top cop Hemant Kumar Lohia found dead, police suspect murder

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday detained a Russian national at Indira Gandhi International Airport, India in connection with its probe into alleged manipulation of 2021 JEE-Mains exam.

Russian hacker arrested by India's CBI for 2021 JEE-Mains exam cheating

India is making giant strides in presenting itself as an alternative to the world's factory i.e China. The country exported more than $1 billion worth of iPhones in five months since April, per a Bloomberg report.

India is making giant strides in presenting itself as an alternative to the world's factory i.e China. The country exported more than $1 billion worth of iPhones in five months since April, per a Bloomberg report. The total exports till March 2023 are expected to reach $2.5 billion which will be double compared to the same yearly period through March 2022. Currently, iPhone 11,12 and 13 models dominate the export from the South Asian country to Europe and West Asia Although the total share of iPhone production from India is still far less comparatively, the recent trend suggests that the country is quickly bridging the gap. As reported by WION, in what comes as a landmark shift, Apple, last week officially announced that it was manufacturing its latest, flagship iPhone 14 in India alongside China. “The new iPhone 14 lineup introduces groundbreaking new technologies and important safety capabilities. We’re excited to be manufacturing iPhone 14 in India,” read the company's statement. Read more: It's official: Apple starts manufacturing iPhone 14 in India By manufacturing iPhone 14 in India, roughly at the same time as in China, the Cupertino-based company is attempting to reduce the gap and bring it on par with China for future models. Previously, Apple manufactured its iPhone 13 model in India, six-seven months after it was launched. According to reports, Apple is expected to move five per cent of its global production of iPhone 14 to India by the end of the year. The company has kept an ambitious target of manufacturing 25 per cent of all iPhones by 2025 in India, per analysts at JP Morgan. Read more: Tata Group in partnership negotiations to make iPhones in India: Report Taiwanese major Foxconn is currently manufacturing all Apple devices at the company's Sriperumbudur plant, outside the southern Indian city of Chennai. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Apple to double iPhone exports from India by next year

The cattle farmers in India are in distress. A viral disease known as lumpy skin disease has killed nearly 100,000 cows and buffalos in the country and sickened more than 2 million more. The outbreak of the disease has triggered devastating income losses for farmers.

WION Climate Tracker | India: Lumpy skin disease kills over 100,000 livestock

Women in the Indian Air Force are operating fighter aircraft and choppers extensively over Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. India's first female weapons operator deployed in Tezpur.

Female Pilots flying India's Eastern sector operations

A startup in India's Maharashtra has created the country's first passenger drone - Varuna. The pilotless drone, developed for the Indian Navy, can carry a payload of up to 130 kgs.

Tech Talk: India's first passenger drone for naval warships

This is the season when the Indian state of West Bengal and the whole Bengali community around the globe go shopping, when the workers and clerks stage street demonstrations daily for Puja bonus, all the Puja specials are on sale and the people gear up for feast and festivity. It's Durga Puja time. But have you wondered about the economic aspect of the festival? Here's everything you need to know.

Explained | The economic aspect of Durga Puja

Explained The economic aspect of Durga Puja

At least 26 people, mostly women and children have died in a road accident in the Kanpur district of India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh on Saturday. Indian PM Narendra Modi has announced compensation for families of deceased.

26 dead, 9 injured in a road accident in India's Northern state of Uttar Pradesh

The leading luxury car manufacturer in the nation, Mercedes-Benz India, unveiled on Friday the EQS 580 4Matic, an electric vehicle (EV) that is "Made in India" and costs just 1.55 crore, or 15.5 million, rupees. (The S-Class pricing starts at 1.60 crore, or 16 million, rupees, both ex-showroom).

According to the company, the EQS 580 is the 14th "Made in India" Mercedes-Benz model and the first-ever locally produced (assembled) EV in India. The EQS is also India's longest-range EV, with a range of up to 677 km (real-world conditions) and 857 km, according to the Automotive Research Association of India (test conditions).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-as-energy-crisis-worsens-refuelling-an-ev-gets-as-expensive-as-petrol-car-519886">United Kingdom: As energy crisis worsens, 'refuelling' an EV gets as expensive as petrol car</a>

The car is equipped with a 400 volt battery made with the most recent lithium-ion technology and has a high power density lithium-ion battery with a usable energy content of 107.8 kWh, as reported by the Hindu Businessline.&nbsp;

Mercedes-Benz India will establish the greatest "ultra-fast charging network," which will reach 80% of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/xiaomi-says-will-protect-business-interests-following-freezing-of-assets-worth-682-million-in-india-521925">India</a> by the end of 2022, to further promote the adoption of EVs. According to Schwenk, the network will be restricted to Mercedes-Benz customers for the first year, with 24/7 free charging services provided to ensure hassle-free ownership of the company's electric lineup.

It has nine airbags and a five-star Euro NCAP safety certification as part of its safety features. The EQS has a robust passenger cell, unique deformation zones, and cutting-edge restraint systems, much like every other Mercedes.

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The leading luxury car manufacturer in the nation, Mercedes-Benz India, unveiled on Friday the EQS 580 4Matic, an electric vehicle (EV) that is "Made in India" and costs just 1.

The leading luxury car manufacturer in the nation, Mercedes-Benz India, unveiled on Friday the EQS 580 4Matic, an electric vehicle (EV) that is "Made in India" and costs just 1.55 crore, or 15.5 million, rupees. (The S-Class pricing starts at 1.60 crore, or 16 million, rupees, both ex-showroom). According to the company, the EQS 580 is the 14th "Made in India" Mercedes-Benz model and the first-ever locally produced (assembled) EV in India. The EQS is also India's longest-range EV, with a range of up to 677 km (real-world conditions) and 857 km, according to the Automotive Research Association of India (test conditions). Also read | United Kingdom: As energy crisis worsens, 'refuelling' an EV gets as expensive as petrol car The car is equipped with a 400 volt battery made with the most recent lithium-ion technology and has a high power density lithium-ion battery with a usable energy content of 107.8 kWh, as reported by the Hindu Businessline. Mercedes-Benz India will establish the greatest "ultra-fast charging network," which will reach 80% of India by the end of 2022, to further promote the adoption of EVs. According to Schwenk, the network will be restricted to Mercedes-Benz customers for the first year, with 24/7 free charging services provided to ensure hassle-free ownership of the company's electric lineup. It has nine airbags and a five-star Euro NCAP safety certification as part of its safety features. The EQS has a robust passenger cell, unique deformation zones, and cutting-edge restraint systems, much like every other Mercedes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mercedes-Benz launches first ‘Made in India’ EQS 580 luxury electric car

India’s Air Force received information of a bomb scare on an Iranian airline when the plane was in Indian air space, which turned out to be a hoax. Here’s what happened.

Bomb scare on an Iranian airline over Indian air space, IAF scrambles jets

From the Annual Conservative Party Conference in the UK to the induction ceremony of India's LCH, here are some impactful images from around the world on 03 October, 2022.

World in Pictures: Annual Conservative Party Conference in UK; Induction ceremony of India's LCH

India has inducted an indigenously developed Light Combat helicopter into its Air Force. It will be called Prachand, which means fierce, fast and menacing. In light of myriad security issues which include border skirmishes with China and continued hostility with Pakistan – India continues to focus on heavily improving their offensive capabilities and Prachand will do just that.

Prachand: India’s indigenous Light Combat Helicopter

Bomb scare on an Iranian airline over Indian air space

Its festive season in India and people across the country are celebrating Durga Puja. WION brings this exclusive report from the Indian city of Kolkata.

WION Dispatch | India celebrates Goddess Durga; 'pandals' with themes to spread awareness

Rajnath Singh, the defence minister, attended the induction of the first batch of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) named "Prachand" into the Indian Air Force. The ceremony was also attended by Anil Chauhan, the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), along with the defence minister of Rajasthan.

During the event, Singh said that LCH will improve India's capability, boost defence output, and help demonstrate India's commitment to self-reliance in the defence industry. The introduction of LCH created domestically will boost IAF's effectiveness.

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Speaking at the Induction Ceremony of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) in Jodhpur. 
<a href="https://t.co/7lQ6yYpNAG">https://t.co/7lQ6yYpNAG</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1576813498197192705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-launches-5g-services-in-india-automotive-sector-to-be-biggest-beneficiary-521459">Also read |&nbsp;Watch: PM Modi launches 5G services in India, automotive sector to be biggest beneficiary</a>

The CCS has approved the purchase of 15 light LHCs for a price of Rs 3,887 crore (approx $30 billion).&nbsp;The government has prioritised indigenisation in defence manufacturing. The IAF will receive 10 of the 15 limited production helicopters, while the army will receive five. As per officials, it can land and take off from a height of 5,000 metres, carrying fuel and weapons.&nbsp;

Singh further added, "for a long time, there was a need for attack helicopters and during the 1999 Kargil war, its need was felt seriously. The LCH is a result of research and development for two decades and its induction into IAF is an important milestone in defence production," ANI reported.

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नाम है ‘प्रचंड’ <a href="https://t.co/dCa3WGvw9A">pic.twitter.com/dCa3WGvw9A</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1576826216887488513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Air Force and noted that it had contributed significantly to the impact, whether there were internal or external threats.&nbsp;Made in India, LHC precisely satisfies the requirements of the Indian armed forces and airforces in a variety of terrains, he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-it-is-international-terrorism-but-indias-it-is-infotech-says-jaishankar-521744">Also read |&nbsp;India's IT is infotech, Pakistan's IT is international terrorism, quips Jaishankar</a>

Mentioning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Rajnath said that the war between the two countries showed large weapons, which clearly showed that large weapon systems and platforms are unable to move quickly across the battlefield and become easy targets for the enemy. Singh said that national defence services are the government's first priority. Additionally, the defence minister, in full confidence, said that whenever anyone talks about superpowers, including military strength, India will be first.&nbsp;

The choppers were extensively tested in Ladakh and the desert region for military forces. In the past two or three years, the IAF has added a number of helicopters to its fleet, including the Chinooks, Apache attack helicopters, and now LCHs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh, the defence minister, attended the induction of the first batch of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) named "Prachand" into the Indian Air Force. The ceremony was also attended by Anil Chauhan, the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), along with the defence minister of Rajasthan.

Rajnath Singh, the defence minister, attended the induction of the first batch of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) named "Prachand" into the Indian Air Force. The ceremony was also attended by Anil Chauhan, the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), along with the defence minister of Rajasthan. During the event, Singh said that LCH will improve India's capability, boost defence output, and help demonstrate India's commitment to self-reliance in the defence industry. The introduction of LCH created domestically will boost IAF's effectiveness. Speaking at the Induction Ceremony of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) in Jodhpur. https://t.co/7lQ6yYpNAG — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 3, 2022 × Also read | Watch: PM Modi launches 5G services in India, automotive sector to be biggest beneficiary The CCS has approved the purchase of 15 light LHCs for a price of Rs 3,887 crore (approx $30 billion). The government has prioritised indigenisation in defence manufacturing. The IAF will receive 10 of the 15 limited production helicopters, while the army will receive five. As per officials, it can land and take off from a height of 5,000 metres, carrying fuel and weapons. Singh further added, "for a long time, there was a need for attack helicopters and during the 1999 Kargil war, its need was felt seriously. The LCH is a result of research and development for two decades and its induction into IAF is an important milestone in defence production," ANI reported. नाम है ‘प्रचंड’ pic.twitter.com/dCa3WGvw9A — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 3, 2022 × Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Air Force and noted that it had contributed significantly to the impact, whether there were internal or external threats. Made in India, LHC precisely satisfies the requirements of the Indian armed forces and airforces in a variety of terrains, he said. Also read | India's IT is infotech, Pakistan's IT is international terrorism, quips Jaishankar Mentioning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Rajnath said that the war between the two countries showed large weapons, which clearly showed that large weapon systems and platforms are unable to move quickly across the battlefield and become easy targets for the enemy. Singh said that national defence services are the government's first priority. Additionally, the defence minister, in full confidence, said that whenever anyone talks about superpowers, including military strength, India will be first. The choppers were extensively tested in Ladakh and the desert region for military forces. In the past two or three years, the IAF has added a number of helicopters to its fleet, including the Chinooks, Apache attack helicopters, and now LCHs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Rajnath Singh attends induction of India's first batch of Light Combat Helicopters 'Prachand' 

The Indian government two years ago announced an ambitious $1.2 trillion mega project called Gati Shakti (Hindi for strength of speed) or National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity plan.

The Indian government two years ago announced an ambitious $1.2 trillion mega project called Gati Shakti (Hindi for strength of speed) or National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity plan. Now, under the project, the government is set to create a digital platform that will combine 16 ministries across different verticals so that infrastructure projects do not get entangled in bureaucratic mess and red tapism. Under the new portal, the private and government companies as well as investors will have a one-stop solution for the design and approval of projects while figuring out the costs without much difficulty. It is estimated that one in four infrastructure projects in India exceed their estimated budget while half of the projects get delayed. According to Amrit Lal Meena, special secretary of logistics in the ministry of commerce and industry, of the 1,300 projects, Gati Shakti’s portal currently oversees, almost 40 per cent were delayed due to issues related to land acquisition, forest, and environment clearances, resulting in cost overruns. “The mission is to implement projects without time overrun and cost overrun. Global companies choosing India as their manufacturing center is the objective.” said Meena regarding the objective of the new portal. As reported by WION, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the budget speech, earlier this year unveiled India at 100 plan while elaborating on PM Gati Shakti programme to accelerate growth. Read more: India Union Budget 2022: PM Gati Shakti plan highlights The plan involves seven engines namely: Railways, roads, airports, ports, mass transport, waterways, and logistics infrastructure. The minister also informed that 100 PM Gati Shakti cargo terminals will be developed during the next three years. Under the scheme 400 new generation, Vande Bharat trains with better efficiency will be brought in the next three years. Ever since PM Modi came to power, he has been focusing on making India a hub of infrastructure projects. To ensure that the benefits of the trillion-dollar project are visible on the ground, PM Modi in a speech batted for decentralisation of the programme. He said that states can come up with their own master plans along lines of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. “This would expedite the implementation of the Mission. Parallelly, they should work to use technology for enhancing ‘ease of living’ of the common man,” the PM was quoted as saying in the statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's ambitious infra push: A digital platform that combines 16 ministries

Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi expressed disappointment after India issued an order freezing near $680 million of the company assets. Xiaomi says that they will continue to protect their reputation and the interests of the company.

Indian agency order froze $682 million of Xiaomi's assets, company made royalty payments to Qualcomm

In pics | India pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 153rd birth anniversary 

India celebrates Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October every year. This year marks 153rd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. People and institutions all over the country mark the day with great enthusiasm.

India celebrates birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, day marks international day of non-violence

2nd October: Indian Prime Minister Modi, seniors leaders pay tribute to the father of the nation

One of the biggest names in India and a widely renowned expert on clean energy, Tulsi Tanti passed away last night at the age of 64 following a cardiac arrest. Making his fortune in affordable and sustainable energy, Tulsi Tanti spearheaded the wind revolution in India with the founding of Suzlon energy back in 1995.

India's renewable energy pioneer passes away, conglomerate has presence across 18 countries

Oman is set to be the latest country in West Asia to start using India's RuPay card and UPI platform, which will benefit the huge Indian diaspora in the country. During the visit of minister of state for external affairs V. Muraleedharan, an agreement will be signed between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) for cooperation in digital finance and payments for the usage of RuPay and UPI.

Muraleedharan will be on an official visit to Oman on October 3rd and 4th. This will be his second visit to the Sultanate, during which he will meet the foreign minister&nbsp;Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, and attend community receptions, among various key engagements. He last visited Oman in December 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-rupee-hits-new-low-slips-below-81-mark-against-us-dollar-for-first-time-ever-518948">Also read |&nbsp;Indian rupee hits new low, slips below 81-mark against US dollar for the first time ever</a>

In west Asia, the RuPay card is used or is in the process of being used in the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. UAE was the first country in the gulf where RuPay was launched during PM Modi's August 2019 visit. RuPay is an Indian payment gateway like a Visa or Mastercard and is increasingly being expanded to India's neighbouring countries or nations with a huge Indian diaspora. It was launched in Singapore in May 2018, followed by Bhutan and the Maldives.

Oman hosts 650,000 Indians, who play a key role in the economic development of the country. Recently, Pankaj Khimji, who is an Omani of Indian origin, has been appointed adviser in the Omani ministry of commerce, industry, and investment promotion with the rank of vice minister, reportedly the first such appointment of an Indian-origin expat in a senior government position in the Gulf region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-proposes-use-of-rupay-card-to-oman-478161">Also read |&nbsp;India proposes use of RuPay card to Oman</a>

During the visit, MoS will also unveil the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the premises of the Indian Embassy in Muscat. The life-size bronze statue of Gandhi Ji, commissioned by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), will be the first ever in Oman.

The visit is part of increased engagement between the two sides. Remember, the Omani secretary general for defence, foreign minister, and commerce minister visited India in February, March, and May 2022. India is one of the largest investors in Oman, with total investments of over US$ 7.5 billion. Bilateral trade is on the rise, with total trade in FY 2021-22 touching nearly US$ 10 billion. Oman plays an important role in supporting Indian naval deployments in the western Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf.

Oman is set to be the latest country in West Asia to start using India's RuPay card and UPI platform, which will benefit the huge Indian diaspora in the country.

Oman is set to be the latest country in West Asia to start using India's RuPay card and UPI platform, which will benefit the huge Indian diaspora in the country. During the visit of minister of state for external affairs V. Muraleedharan, an agreement will be signed between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) for cooperation in digital finance and payments for the usage of RuPay and UPI. Muraleedharan will be on an official visit to Oman on October 3rd and 4th. This will be his second visit to the Sultanate, during which he will meet the foreign minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, and attend community receptions, among various key engagements. He last visited Oman in December 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | Indian rupee hits new low, slips below 81-mark against US dollar for the first time ever In west Asia, the RuPay card is used or is in the process of being used in the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. UAE was the first country in the gulf where RuPay was launched during PM Modi's August 2019 visit. RuPay is an Indian payment gateway like a Visa or Mastercard and is increasingly being expanded to India's neighbouring countries or nations with a huge Indian diaspora. It was launched in Singapore in May 2018, followed by Bhutan and the Maldives. Oman hosts 650,000 Indians, who play a key role in the economic development of the country. Recently, Pankaj Khimji, who is an Omani of Indian origin, has been appointed adviser in the Omani ministry of commerce, industry, and investment promotion with the rank of vice minister, reportedly the first such appointment of an Indian-origin expat in a senior government position in the Gulf region. Also read | India proposes use of RuPay card to Oman During the visit, MoS will also unveil the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the premises of the Indian Embassy in Muscat. The life-size bronze statue of Gandhi Ji, commissioned by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), will be the first ever in Oman. The visit is part of increased engagement between the two sides. Remember, the Omani secretary general for defence, foreign minister, and commerce minister visited India in February, March, and May 2022. India is one of the largest investors in Oman, with total investments of over US$ 7.5 billion. Bilateral trade is on the rise, with total trade in FY 2021-22 touching nearly US$ 10 billion. Oman plays an important role in supporting Indian naval deployments in the western Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf.

Oman to also start usage of India's RuPay card, UPI platform

No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously.

"No other country practises <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-terrorists-killed-in-baramulla-encounter-in-kashmir-521148">terrorism</a> in the manner in which Pakistan has done. You show me anywhere in the world what Pakistan has done for so many years against India. After the 26/11 Mumbai attack, it is important for us to be clear to ourselves that this kind of behaviour and action is unacceptable and there will be consequences," Jaishankar said during an interaction with the audience after the talk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suzlon-energy-chairman-and-indias-renowned-renewable-energy-expert-tulsi-tanti-dies-521682">Suzlon Energy chairman and India's renowned renewable energy expert Tulsi Tanti dies at 64</a>

While India is considered "expert in IT" (Information Technology), the neighbouring country is known as a "expert in International Terrorism", the minister quipped. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India successfully made other countries realise that terrorism,&nbsp;if not contained now, can harm them too in the future, Jaishankar said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | We've a neighbour, like we're expert in IT (information technology) they're expert in 'international terrorists'. It's going on for years...but we could explain to world that terrorism is terrorism, today it's being done against us, tomorrow it will be against you...:EAM <a href="https://t.co/zxuibuadjG">pic.twitter.com/zxuibuadjG</a>
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When asked by a student from Sierra Leone how the Modi administration will fulfil Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of 'undivided India',&nbsp;Jaishankar responded that Partition was a great tragedy that led to issues like terrorism.

"The best way of realising the dream of Sardar Patel is for India to be strong, successful and confident, and other people to understand that they have to come to terms with this India and stop policies which are not in their interest and which are harmful for the entire region," said the minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

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No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously.

No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously. "No other country practises terrorism in the manner in which Pakistan has done. You show me anywhere in the world what Pakistan has done for so many years against India. After the 26/11 Mumbai attack, it is important for us to be clear to ourselves that this kind of behaviour and action is unacceptable and there will be consequences," Jaishankar said during an interaction with the audience after the talk. Also read | Suzlon Energy chairman and India's renowned renewable energy expert Tulsi Tanti dies at 64 While India is considered "expert in IT" (Information Technology), the neighbouring country is known as a "expert in International Terrorism", the minister quipped. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India successfully made other countries realise that terrorism, if not contained now, can harm them too in the future, Jaishankar said. #WATCH | We've a neighbour, like we're expert in IT (information technology) they're expert in 'international terrorists'. It's going on for years...but we could explain to world that terrorism is terrorism, today it's being done against us, tomorrow it will be against you...:EAM pic.twitter.com/zxuibuadjG — ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2022 × When asked by a student from Sierra Leone how the Modi administration will fulfil Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of 'undivided India', Jaishankar responded that Partition was a great tragedy that led to issues like terrorism. "The best way of realising the dream of Sardar Patel is for India to be strong, successful and confident, and other people to understand that they have to come to terms with this India and stop policies which are not in their interest and which are harmful for the entire region," said the minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's IT is infotech, Pakistan's IT is international terrorism, quips Jaishankar

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