From a man taking shelter amid monsoon rain in India's Srinagar to Children playing on a trampoline in Kabul, here are some impactful images from around the world on 23 July 2022.

World in Pictures: Man takes shelter amid monsoon in India; Children play on trampoline in Kabul

In a bizarre judgement, an Indian High Court has ruled that the removal of 'Mangalsutra' or 'thali' is "mental cruelty of highest order". Mangalsutra is a sacred thread worn around the neck by some Hindu women worn&nbsp;as a reflection of their marital status. The judgement in question came during the case of a man seeking a divorce. When granting the divorce to the aggrieved petitioner, a division bench of Justices V M Velumani and S Sounthar made the observation about Mangalsutra and the importance it holds in a Hindu marriage.&nbsp;In June 2016, C Sivakumar, a professor at a medical college in Erode, filed for divorce, however, a local court denied his request. Sivakumar had sought to have the decision overturned. Granting his request, the Madras High Court observed that removing the jewellery holds significance of its own.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Tackling teen mental health issues in schools

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The petitioners now ex-wife was examined during the proceedings and she admitted that while she and Sivakumar were separated she removed her thali and kept it in her bank locker.

Citing Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, her attorney argued that thali is not required for marriage&nbsp;and that, even if their client removed it,&nbsp;the wife's removal of the thali would not have any effect on the marital bond.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-fda-approves-new-eye-drops-that-can-replace-spectacles-and-fix-near-vision-497573" hreflang="en">US FDA approves new eye drops that can replace spectacles and fix near-vision</a>

However, as per a PTI report, the bench said that it is common knowledge that the tying of the thali is an important ceremony in marriage rituals, which take place "in this part of the world".

It cited orders of a division bench of the High Court, which stated that "It was a known fact that no Hindu married woman would remove the thali at any point of time during the lifetime of her husband."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-much-alcohol-to-drink-at-what-age-the-lancet-study-reveals-497554" hreflang="en">How much alcohol to drink at what age? The Lancet study reveals</a>

"Thali around the neck of a woman was a sacred thing which symbolises the continuance of married life and it is removed only after the death of the husband. Therefore, its removal by the petitioner/wife can be said to be an act which reflected mental cruelty of the highest order as it could have caused agony and hurt the sentiments of the respondent," PTI quoted the bench as saying.

Since the judgement came to light, it has taken the Internet by storm and people have been quick to point out that being married and wearing a piece of jewellery have no real intrinsic connection. Some even compared it to tying a rope around a cow's neck.

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“The ritual of tying a mangalsutra around the woman’s neck at the marriage ceremony is similar to buying a cow, tying a cord around its neck and dragging it home." - Periyar <a href="https://t.co/zdjuiMoSNo">https://t.co/zdjuiMoSNo</a>
— Pramod Kanni 💙 (@Pramod_Kanni) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pramod_Kanni/status/1547800178681212936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Court be like "marital r@pe?? Naah woh kya hota hai" 
 
Removing mangalsutra. Mental cruelty of highest order <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoLogicOnlyVibes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoLogicOnlyVibes</a> <a href="https://t.co/NOaWnEIXem">https://t.co/NOaWnEIXem</a>
— Intriguedजेnny (@IntriguedJeny) <a href="https://twitter.com/IntriguedJeny/status/1547840518276517890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The married men who believe that it is the mangalsutra in their wives' neck alone that's keeping them and their marriages alive should wear it and take control of their lives into their own hands. A simple solution to a very grave problem I think.
— Prapthi (@prapthi_m) <a href="https://twitter.com/prapthi_m/status/1547834422933630977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Someone Please wake me and confirm that I'm reading today's news? 
 
We have passed 2 decades of 21st Century but we want to force a lady to wear Mangalsutra? Where is her wish or choice? 
 
This should be by choice of the lady not by the choice of the man. That's Equality. <a href="https://t.co/N3Khl1GJMe">pic.twitter.com/N3Khl1GJMe</a>
— Abhishek Revolutionary RajaRam for Taxation Reform (@abhishekrajaram) <a href="https://twitter.com/abhishekrajaram/status/1547794042800353282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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In a bizarre judgement, an Indian High Court has ruled that the removal of 'Mangalsutra' or 'thali' is "mental cruelty of highest order". Mangalsutra is a sacred thread worn around the neck by some Hindu women worn as a reflection of their marital status.

In a bizarre judgement, an Indian High Court has ruled that the removal of 'Mangalsutra' or 'thali' is "mental cruelty of highest order". Mangalsutra is a sacred thread worn around the neck by some Hindu women worn as a reflection of their marital status. The judgement in question came during the case of a man seeking a divorce. When granting the divorce to the aggrieved petitioner, a division bench of Justices V M Velumani and S Sounthar made the observation about Mangalsutra and the importance it holds in a Hindu marriage. In June 2016, C Sivakumar, a professor at a medical college in Erode, filed for divorce, however, a local court denied his request. Sivakumar had sought to have the decision overturned. Granting his request, the Madras High Court observed that removing the jewellery holds significance of its own. Watch | WION Dispatch: Tackling teen mental health issues in schools The petitioners now ex-wife was examined during the proceedings and she admitted that while she and Sivakumar were separated she removed her thali and kept it in her bank locker. Citing Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, her attorney argued that thali is not required for marriage and that, even if their client removed it, the wife's removal of the thali would not have any effect on the marital bond. Also read | US FDA approves new eye drops that can replace spectacles and fix near-vision However, as per a PTI report, the bench said that it is common knowledge that the tying of the thali is an important ceremony in marriage rituals, which take place "in this part of the world". It cited orders of a division bench of the High Court, which stated that "It was a known fact that no Hindu married woman would remove the thali at any point of time during the lifetime of her husband." Also read | How much alcohol to drink at what age? The Lancet study reveals "Thali around the neck of a woman was a sacred thing which symbolises the continuance of married life and it is removed only after the death of the husband. Therefore, its removal by the petitioner/wife can be said to be an act which reflected mental cruelty of the highest order as it could have caused agony and hurt the sentiments of the respondent," PTI quoted the bench as saying. Since the judgement came to light, it has taken the Internet by storm and people have been quick to point out that being married and wearing a piece of jewellery have no real intrinsic connection. Some even compared it to tying a rope around a cow's neck. “The ritual of tying a mangalsutra around the woman’s neck at the marriage ceremony is similar to buying a cow, tying a cord around its neck and dragging it home." - Periyar https://t.co/zdjuiMoSNo — Pramod Kanni 💙 (@Pramod_Kanni) July 15, 2022 × Court be like "marital r@pe?? Naah woh kya hota hai" Removing mangalsutra. Mental cruelty of highest order #NoLogicOnlyVibes https://t.co/NOaWnEIXem — Intriguedजेnny (@IntriguedJeny) July 15, 2022 × The married men who believe that it is the mangalsutra in their wives' neck alone that's keeping them and their marriages alive should wear it and take control of their lives into their own hands. A simple solution to a very grave problem I think. — Prapthi (@prapthi_m) July 15, 2022 × Someone Please wake me and confirm that I'm reading today's news? We have passed 2 decades of 21st Century but we want to force a lady to wear Mangalsutra? Where is her wish or choice? This should be by choice of the lady not by the choice of the man. That's Equality. pic.twitter.com/N3Khl1GJMe — Abhishek Revolutionary RajaRam for Taxation Reform (@abhishekrajaram) July 15, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian court compares a wife removing mangalsutra to 'mental cruelty'. Internet reacts!

Chinese companies are facing scrutiny in India. They're being investigated for tax fraud, duty evasion & forex violations. Which companies are these? How is India holding them accountable? On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas Plus: India's economic pushback against China

The Cheetah is all set for a return to India's forests after more than 70 years. Namibia and India have inked a deal to reintroduce wild Cheetahs in India. Palki Sharma tells you more about India's plan.

Gravitas: Wild Cheetah will return to India after 7 decades

India just managed to hold off the challenge of an inspired West Indies team with the under-strength visitors coming away with a three-run victory in the first&nbsp;One-Day International of a three-match series at Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday.

Stand-in captain Shikhar&nbsp;Dhawan's 97 was the foundation of his side's total of 308 for seven which appeared to be more than enough at the halfway stage given that the hosts were just coming off a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Bangladesh in Guyana a week earlier.

However, opener Kyle Mayers set the tone for the Caribbean side's chase with a top-score of 75 and with the rest of the batting order making important contributions the West Indies reached the final over needing 15 runs for victory.

Romario Shepherd, playing only because former captain Jason Holder was ruled out with Covid 19 in the morning, and Akeal Hosein managed to scramble 11 against the bowling of seamer Mohammed Siraj as they finished agonisingly short at 305 for six.

Dhawan's innings off 99 balls with three sixes and ten fours earned him the "Man of the Match" award although the left-handed opener was not too pleased with his team's effort in the field.

"We had a few nerves obviously towards the end of the match and maybe we didn't stick to our plans as well as we should have because if we had done so, especially with a few runs given away on the leg-side, the game would have been over as a contest earlier,"&nbsp;Dhawan&nbsp;said after the match.

Put in on a sweltering morning, he saw opening partner Shubman Gill (64) play most of the shots early on in a stand of 119 off 18 overs. Shreyas Iyer stroked his way to 54 before becoming the second wicket for Gudakesh Motie.

Motie had earlier dismissed&nbsp;Dhawan&nbsp;via an excellent diving catch by Shamarh Brooks at backward-point as India lost momentum when ominously poised at 213 for one in the 34th over.

Motie and fellow left-arm spinner Hosein were the most economical of the West Indies bowlers although pacer Alzarri Joseph bolstered the home side's rearguard in the field with two important wickets.

"It's a bittersweet feeling," was West Indies captain Nicholas Pooran’s summary of the match. "We've been talking about batting 50 overs and we did it this time but came up short.

"Still, we really competed well against one of the best teams in the world and we need to keep on improving against this type of opposition if we want to get our ODI cricket back on track."

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India just managed to hold off the challenge of an inspired West Indies team with the under-strength visitors coming away with a three-run victory in the first One-Day International of a three-match series at Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday.

India just managed to hold off the challenge of an inspired West Indies team with the under-strength visitors coming away with a three-run victory in the first One-Day International of a three-match series at Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad on Friday. Stand-in captain Shikhar Dhawan's 97 was the foundation of his side's total of 308 for seven which appeared to be more than enough at the halfway stage given that the hosts were just coming off a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Bangladesh in Guyana a week earlier. However, opener Kyle Mayers set the tone for the Caribbean side's chase with a top-score of 75 and with the rest of the batting order making important contributions the West Indies reached the final over needing 15 runs for victory. Romario Shepherd, playing only because former captain Jason Holder was ruled out with Covid 19 in the morning, and Akeal Hosein managed to scramble 11 against the bowling of seamer Mohammed Siraj as they finished agonisingly short at 305 for six. Dhawan's innings off 99 balls with three sixes and ten fours earned him the "Man of the Match" award although the left-handed opener was not too pleased with his team's effort in the field. "We had a few nerves obviously towards the end of the match and maybe we didn't stick to our plans as well as we should have because if we had done so, especially with a few runs given away on the leg-side, the game would have been over as a contest earlier," Dhawan said after the match. Put in on a sweltering morning, he saw opening partner Shubman Gill (64) play most of the shots early on in a stand of 119 off 18 overs. Shreyas Iyer stroked his way to 54 before becoming the second wicket for Gudakesh Motie. Motie had earlier dismissed Dhawan via an excellent diving catch by Shamarh Brooks at backward-point as India lost momentum when ominously poised at 213 for one in the 34th over. Motie and fellow left-arm spinner Hosein were the most economical of the West Indies bowlers although pacer Alzarri Joseph bolstered the home side's rearguard in the field with two important wickets. "It's a bittersweet feeling," was West Indies captain Nicholas Pooran’s summary of the match. "We've been talking about batting 50 overs and we did it this time but came up short. "Still, we really competed well against one of the best teams in the world and we need to keep on improving against this type of opposition if we want to get our ODI cricket back on track." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India beat West Indies by 3 runs in first ODI

India's national film award winners have been announced. Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn & South Indian actor Suriya have shared the best actor award.

India's national film award winners announced: Ajay Devgn and Suriya share best actor award

India's national film award winners announced: Ajay Devgn & Suriya share best actor award

India's Supreme Court has recognised sex work as a profession. What are the pros and cons of this decision? What do sex workers and activists think about it? Watch 'Sex Work: Should Prostitution be legal?' on WION Wideangle

WION Wideangle: Sex work: Should prostitution be legal

13 years of hard work by Indian Professor Bilal Ahmed is finally paying off. He started making the first solar car in Kashmir valley in 2009. The prototype of the car is ready and India's biggest car companies have approached Bilal.

WION Climate Tracker | Math teacher from India's Kashmir builds solar car from scratch

The Indian Supreme Court expanded the scope of the MTP Act to include "unmarried women", allowing a woman to abort her 24-weeks pregnancy arising out of a consensual relationship. Molly Gambhir tells you why this verdict is significant.

WION Fineprint | Unmarried women have right to safe abortion says Indian Supreme Court

Mairaj Ahmed Khan became the first Indian to win an ISSF World Cup Gold medal in the discipline of Skeet earlier this week. Khan bounced back after a disappointing Olympic campaign last year in Tokyo which left him considering his future in the sport. He opens up about his struggles and a new-found motivation in a conversation with Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

Skeet Champion Mairaj speaks to WION: A fresh start at the age of 46

In a significant boost to the Indian Coast Guard, in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, a new Ship Support Complex (SSC) has been added to its infrastructure. "Based in Kochi and the first such facility in Kerala, the SSC will provide immediate support to ICG ships berthed here, the ships visiting the city. It can offer minor repairs, spares, thus ensuring faster turnaround for operational availability," Inspector General S Paramesh, Commander, CG Region (West) told WION.&nbsp;

He added that the Coast Guard had to earlier rely on the private sector for such works and from now on, the same could be done in-house. In major Indian cities, to meet the larger requirements of the ICG, there are bigger Base Maintenance Units and Support Complexes to perform functions similar to SSCs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jagdeep-dhankhar-ndas-candidate-for-vice-presidential-election-499835">Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar, NDA's Candidate for Vice Presidential Election</a>&nbsp;

The SSC in Kochi has been constructed adjacent to the Coast Guard Jetty and will boost the overall efficiency of the Coast Guard organisation in Kerala. In recent months, the ICG has been strengthening its Sea and Coastal Surveillance all around the coast of Kerala. Some of the recent inductions here include the made-in-India Advanced Light Helicopter Mk 3.&nbsp;

Inducted under the 845 Squadron, these 'Mk3' variant helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and is a maritime version that can be used for reconnaissance, long-range search and rescue, during both day and night and in all-weather conditions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-developing-indigenous-space-tourism-capabilities-says-indian-minister-how-credible-is-it-499798">ISRO developing indigenous space tourism capabilities, says Indian minister; how credible is it?</a>&nbsp;

The ALH Mk 3 features an array of systems that were previously seen on heavier, multi-role helicopters. This variant is fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment. It is also fitted with a heavy machine gun and a removable intensive care unit, that would be useful in airlifting and providing relief to critically ill patients.&nbsp;

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In a significant boost to the Indian Coast Guard, in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, a new Ship Support Complex (SSC) has been added to its infrastructure. "Based in Kochi and the first such facility in Kerala, the SSC will provide immediate support to ICG ships berthed here, the ships visiting the city.

In a significant boost to the Indian Coast Guard, in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, a new Ship Support Complex (SSC) has been added to its infrastructure. "Based in Kochi and the first such facility in Kerala, the SSC will provide immediate support to ICG ships berthed here, the ships visiting the city. It can offer minor repairs, spares, thus ensuring faster turnaround for operational availability," Inspector General S Paramesh, Commander, CG Region (West) told WION. He added that the Coast Guard had to earlier rely on the private sector for such works and from now on, the same could be done in-house. In major Indian cities, to meet the larger requirements of the ICG, there are bigger Base Maintenance Units and Support Complexes to perform functions similar to SSCs. ALSO READ | Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar, NDA's Candidate for Vice Presidential Election The SSC in Kochi has been constructed adjacent to the Coast Guard Jetty and will boost the overall efficiency of the Coast Guard organisation in Kerala. In recent months, the ICG has been strengthening its Sea and Coastal Surveillance all around the coast of Kerala. Some of the recent inductions here include the made-in-India Advanced Light Helicopter Mk 3. Inducted under the 845 Squadron, these 'Mk3' variant helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and is a maritime version that can be used for reconnaissance, long-range search and rescue, during both day and night and in all-weather conditions. ALSO READ | ISRO developing indigenous space tourism capabilities, says Indian minister; how credible is it? The ALH Mk 3 features an array of systems that were previously seen on heavier, multi-role helicopters. This variant is fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment. It is also fitted with a heavy machine gun and a removable intensive care unit, that would be useful in airlifting and providing relief to critically ill patients. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Coast Guard's new facility in Kochi to enhance ops in West Coast

On July 14, 2022, the heads of government of India, Israel, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States of America met at the first leader’s summit of the I2U2 group.

On July 14, 2022, the heads of government of India, Israel, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States of America met at the first leader’s summit of the I2U2 group. The grouping emerged from the 2021 Foreign Ministers’ meeting of the four countries when it was called International Forum for Economic Cooperation. The first leaders’ summit was exploratory, and the participating countries agreed to focus on investments in six sectors- water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security. The apparent outcome of the first meeting was that it gave clarity on the nature of the grouping. The grouping is said to be purely economic as it focuses on the geoeconomic aspects of capital investments for improving infrastructure, climate change action, and public health access. With its diplomatic prowess, India has been a part of major economic initiatives in its neighbourhood in the form of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, BRICS, and now the I2U2. The I2U2 allows India to secure investments from Israel, UAE, and the US, emerge as an alternative renewable energy hub and diversify the supply chain mechanism. The I2U2 grouping is India’s continued legacy of cultivating harmonious and economically beneficial relations with West Asia under its Look West policy. The article explores India’s opportunities concerning the I2U2 grouping and assesses the group from a lens of continuation of the broader Look West policy. I2U2: What is in there for India? The cooperation between India, Israel, United Arab Emirates, and the US is a game-changer as these countries have come together to fulfil geoeconomic objectives of enhanced investments and tackle global challenges. For India, the I2U2 grouping is of particular significance as it places New Delhi in a position to leverage its strategic relations with Israel, UAE, and the US to build mutually beneficial economic partnerships without any adverse impact on its domestic commitments. During the summit, it was announced that UAE would invest $2 billion to develop sustainable and hi-tech integrated food parks in India’s Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The investment in food parks will give an impetus to the Indian agricultural system as it will help in more agricultural output with cooperation from the Israel-UAE state and private sector. The investment also points toward the sustainability advantage that will benefit India as the food parks will address the food waste problem. Regarding geoeconomic features, the investment will enhance food security in the Gulf region, with India getting space to negotiate on energy security. Additionally, the I2U2 grouping focuses on private capital investment and technical expertise to solve waste treatment problems, health access, and start-up linkages. India stands to gain from these investments as India’s start-up industry is increasing quickly. The investments in start-ups and their linkages with other countries will provide an impetus to entrepreneurial innovation and the creation of more such ventures. Apart from the food security and start-up-oriented investment, the grouping also benefits India with its Clean Energy initiative. The initiative looks forward to establishing a hybrid renewable energy facility bringing together wind and solar energy for energy conservation and promoting a sustainable enterprise. The clean energy project aligns with India’s commitment to reducing carbon dependency in the Paris Agreement. Hence, India stands to gain from the I2U2 grouping as it is an opportunity for India to cooperate with UAE and Israel to make a stronghold in the rest of West Asia. Continuation of 'Look-West' policy It would not be an exaggeration to say that the I2U2 grouping is a continuation of India’s Look West Policy. India has had trade partnerships with West Asia in areas of energy and oil since the 1990s. In 2014, with the coming of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister, in line with the Look East policy, he charted a new approach focusing on building strategic relations with West Asia. Under the Look West policy, India determined to fulfil its national interest without getting involved in the regional politics of the Arab world. India’s approach to engaging with West Asia establishes a common ground for cooperation. The relations between India and West Asia rest on government-to-government (G-G), business-to-business (B-B), and people-to-people (P-P) contacts. In May 2022, India and the United Arab Emirates signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which is expected to increase the bilateral between the two countries. Similarly, India shares historical relations with Israel owing to its defence requirements. Saudi Arabia is another partner of India in West Asia, actively investing in the Jio platform of Reliance Industries. Therefore, the I2U2 complements India’s Look West Policy as it strengthens its position in the region by collaborating with UAE and Israel on economic, oil, energy, and defence matters. Additionally, partnering with the US other than in the Indo-Pacific enhances Indo-US relations. Grants India an advantage in the region The Look West Policy has positioned India in an advantageous position as its relations with the OIC have improved while remaining a balancer in the region by not taking sides between the Arab world and Israel or Saudi Arabia and Iran. The I2U2 presents an opportunity for India to enhance its partnership with the Arab world and strengthen its stance on harnessing relations with all regions. The grouping is a platform where countries can multilaterally invest and cooperate. The Arab region is significant for India’s foreign policy as it is a hotspot of many conflicts. The Look West Policy is India’s strategy of engaging with the area bypassing Pakistan’s geopolitical boundaries. Therefore, the Look West Policy and I2U2 are a critical aspect of India’s foreign policy as it is in the country’s national interest. The Look West Policy complements I2U2 by engaging India with other developing economies of West Asia in sectors ranging from energy, climate action, sustainability, etc. India should continue to diplomatically engage with West Asia to continue its multilateral approach to international relations while also focusing on building more people-to-people contacts. The I2U2 grouping allows India to act as a balancer in the region by engaging with all countries in a geopolitically charged region. (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) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

I2U2: A continuation of India's 'Look West' policy

Droupadi Murmu has been elected as the 15th President of India. A tribal leader from Odisha, she's the second woman to hold the country's highest constitutional post. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Meet Droupadi Murmu: India's new President

India has signed a historic MoU with Namibia to promote Wildlife Conservation and Sustainable Biodiversity Utilisation. The MoU seeks to promote conservation and restoration of Cheetahs in their former range from which the species went extinct.

Before 15th August, India is expecting 8-9 Cheetahs to be brought to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

Experts share their view on introduction of African Cheetahs in India.

Q: Will this experiment succeed in India?&nbsp;

Ravi Chellam, Conservation Scientist and Wildlife Biologist&nbsp;

“Indian Supreme Court had in January 2020 made it clear that the introduction of African Cheetahs in India will be experimental.

As per official documents, India is expected to have maximum 21 Cheetahs in the next 15 years. We will have to decide whether spending hundreds of crores and waiting for 15 years for 21 cheetahs is an indication of success or not.

“In 2018, India’s National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had approached the Supreme Court of the country seeking permission to explore the introduction of Cheetah outside Kuno national park in the state of Madhya Pradesh. But now all the focus is on bringing them to Kuno. A lot of things are incorrect and confusing.”

Dr Dipankar Ghose, Director- Wildlife and Habitats, WWF India

“The reintroduction of a species in an area from where it has gone extinct is often extremely challenging, such actions demonstrate a strong commitment to conserve nature, and that this program has been initiated and supported by the Government – has lent it both weight and impetus.&nbsp;

“Success of reintroduction will depend on a variety of factors. In the immediate future, if the translocated individuals adapt to the enclosures they are released in, and go on to breed and find a population, these initial efforts will have succeeded. In the longer term, successful translocation will require that the species be reintroduced in its historical habitats in the wild.&nbsp;

“Ultimately, success may also be determined by whether the species will be able to survive and persist in the wild and be socially supported. Success will also be contingent on sustaining its besieged open habitats – grasslands, shrublands and commons so they support black buck, chinkara and other species that the Cheetah will depend on.”

YV Jhala, Dean, Wildlife Institute of India (WII)&nbsp;

“It is a major conservation initiative globally. There is no reason why it should fail when India has done so well at conserving its tigers, lions, and leopards, which are far more difficult than conserving Cheetahs.”

Q: Is bringing Cheetahs to India a good or a bad idea? And why?

Ravi Chellam

“Objectives are not clear. It seems a lot of negative impact will be there on conservative priorities of India. It’s not even mentioned in the national wildlife action plan then how are crores of funds allocated to this when other issues don’t have the same. It will shift focus from much more pressing issues.”

Dipankar Ghose

“Bringing the Cheetah to India sends a strong message about the commitment to shelter and sustain biodiversity for an imperiled species in an era of environmental devastation. The relocation shouldn’t be viewed in isolation, as an end in itself. These efforts to bring back a charismatic large predator need to be viewed against backdrop of catastrophic declines of species globally. It would have been better to get the Asian subspecies, which is currently found only in Iran.&nbsp;

“Nevertheless, bringing the Cheetah back will make India the only country with five species of big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard and cheetah (often considered as a big cat, though it cannot roar).&nbsp;

“Cheetah translocation efforts must thus be aligned with initiatives to revive, protect and sustainably manage grasslands and other open ecosystems across the Cheetah’s habitat in India – and strengthen conservation of diverse species of plants and animals, including the Great Indian Bustard that face great risks as their habitats are depleted and degraded.&nbsp;

“If we succeed on this front, the Cheetah translocation efforts may leave a lasting legacy for wildlife conservation in India. Only time will tell whether the Cheetah will go on to recolonize its historical habitats in India – and there will be great learning through this whole process.”

YV Jhala

“Bringing Cheetahs here is a good idea. Restoring lost ecosystem elements is one way of conserving biodiversity. Top predators regulate all levels in a food chain and are considered as umbrella species. Once wolves were reintroduced into the Yellowstone Ecosystem in the USA their effects were seen even on vegetation and water flows in streams! Bringing back the cheetah to India which was part of its historical range will bring back the balance and restore an evolutionary force under which many functional traits of deer and antelopes have evolved.&nbsp;

“It is also the moral obligation of mankind to restore what has been destroyed by our actions. Cheetah is also our cultural heritage and finds mention in the Vedas and Puranas. Neolithic cave paintings of the cheetah are found near Bhopal and in Gandhisager dated 10-20 thousand years ago. So it is a very good idea!”

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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India has signed a historic MoU with Namibia to promote Wildlife Conservation and Sustainable Biodiversity Utilisation. The MoU seeks to promote conservation and restoration of Cheetahs in their former range from which the species went extinct.

India has signed a historic MoU with Namibia to promote Wildlife Conservation and Sustainable Biodiversity Utilisation. The MoU seeks to promote conservation and restoration of Cheetahs in their former range from which the species went extinct. Before 15th August, India is expecting 8-9 Cheetahs to be brought to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Experts share their view on introduction of African Cheetahs in India. Q: Will this experiment succeed in India? Ravi Chellam, Conservation Scientist and Wildlife Biologist “Indian Supreme Court had in January 2020 made it clear that the introduction of African Cheetahs in India will be experimental. As per official documents, India is expected to have maximum 21 Cheetahs in the next 15 years. We will have to decide whether spending hundreds of crores and waiting for 15 years for 21 cheetahs is an indication of success or not. “In 2018, India’s National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had approached the Supreme Court of the country seeking permission to explore the introduction of Cheetah outside Kuno national park in the state of Madhya Pradesh. But now all the focus is on bringing them to Kuno. A lot of things are incorrect and confusing.” Dr Dipankar Ghose, Director- Wildlife and Habitats, WWF India “The reintroduction of a species in an area from where it has gone extinct is often extremely challenging, such actions demonstrate a strong commitment to conserve nature, and that this program has been initiated and supported by the Government – has lent it both weight and impetus. “Success of reintroduction will depend on a variety of factors. In the immediate future, if the translocated individuals adapt to the enclosures they are released in, and go on to breed and find a population, these initial efforts will have succeeded. In the longer term, successful translocation will require that the species be reintroduced in its historical habitats in the wild. “Ultimately, success may also be determined by whether the species will be able to survive and persist in the wild and be socially supported. Success will also be contingent on sustaining its besieged open habitats – grasslands, shrublands and commons so they support black buck, chinkara and other species that the Cheetah will depend on.” YV Jhala, Dean, Wildlife Institute of India (WII) “It is a major conservation initiative globally. There is no reason why it should fail when India has done so well at conserving its tigers, lions, and leopards, which are far more difficult than conserving Cheetahs.” Q: Is bringing Cheetahs to India a good or a bad idea? And why? Ravi Chellam “Objectives are not clear. It seems a lot of negative impact will be there on conservative priorities of India. It’s not even mentioned in the national wildlife action plan then how are crores of funds allocated to this when other issues don’t have the same. It will shift focus from much more pressing issues.” Dipankar Ghose “Bringing the Cheetah to India sends a strong message about the commitment to shelter and sustain biodiversity for an imperiled species in an era of environmental devastation. The relocation shouldn’t be viewed in isolation, as an end in itself. These efforts to bring back a charismatic large predator need to be viewed against backdrop of catastrophic declines of species globally. It would have been better to get the Asian subspecies, which is currently found only in Iran. “Nevertheless, bringing the Cheetah back will make India the only country with five species of big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard and cheetah (often considered as a big cat, though it cannot roar). “Cheetah translocation efforts must thus be aligned with initiatives to revive, protect and sustainably manage grasslands and other open ecosystems across the Cheetah’s habitat in India – and strengthen conservation of diverse species of plants and animals, including the Great Indian Bustard that face great risks as their habitats are depleted and degraded. “If we succeed on this front, the Cheetah translocation efforts may leave a lasting legacy for wildlife conservation in India. Only time will tell whether the Cheetah will go on to recolonize its historical habitats in India – and there will be great learning through this whole process.” YV Jhala “Bringing Cheetahs here is a good idea. Restoring lost ecosystem elements is one way of conserving biodiversity. Top predators regulate all levels in a food chain and are considered as umbrella species. Once wolves were reintroduced into the Yellowstone Ecosystem in the USA their effects were seen even on vegetation and water flows in streams! Bringing back the cheetah to India which was part of its historical range will bring back the balance and restore an evolutionary force under which many functional traits of deer and antelopes have evolved. “It is also the moral obligation of mankind to restore what has been destroyed by our actions. Cheetah is also our cultural heritage and finds mention in the Vedas and Puranas. Neolithic cave paintings of the cheetah are found near Bhopal and in Gandhisager dated 10-20 thousand years ago. So it is a very good idea!” You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Introduction of Cheetahs in India: What do experts say?

The Kosi river is dubbed Bihar's sorrow during the rainy season. A similar sobriquet can be used for the&nbsp;Vishwamitri River which becomes a source of sorrow for the people of Vadodara in Gujarat during&nbsp;monsoon.

Reportedly, the residents living in the high-rise residential flat schemes near the bank of the river have to hold onto their dear life while stepping out&nbsp;as the flooded river means that crocodiles reach the gates of their buildings.

It is estimated that the river, which&nbsp;intersects Vadodara, is home to over 300 crocodiles. After a spell of heavy rainfall, the river gets flooded; meaning, the crocodiles seek a place for shelter and generally end up in stormwater drains&nbsp;and underground drainage lines.

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Due to heavy rain in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vadodara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vadodara</a> ,crocodiles are coming out of rivers and entering residential areas. video of a crocodile crossing road in Vadodara's Jambuwa village has gone viral,showing two bikers stopping while the crocodile was crossing road<a href="https://twitter.com/NewIndianXpress?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NewIndianXpress</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMornStandard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheMornStandard</a> <a href="https://t.co/83Ttvt5yuO">pic.twitter.com/83Ttvt5yuO</a>
— Dilip Singh Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kshatriyadilip/status/1548622622270832640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to Neha Patel, an animal activist who rescues crocodiles, "The crocodiles travel several kilometres unnoticed through these drains. Several areas of Vadodara can spot crocodiles as now they are inside drainage lines."

Vadodara has a stormwater drainage network that covers almost 410 kilometres. However, in some cases, these crocodiles reach the doors of the locals and threaten to bite or drag them.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-teacher-consoles-his-students-who-weep-uncontrollably-after-his-transfer-netizens-tear-up-497637">Watch: Teacher consoles his students who weep uncontrollably after his transfer; netizens tear up</a>

Most locals who dare to step out to purchase groceries have to use a rescue boat that ferries them out of the apartment.&nbsp;On an average, the authorities get around 25-30 calls of crocodiles being spotted every day during monsoon.&nbsp;

While the crocodiles are a threat to the humans of the region, the same is also true for the reptiles. Earlier this month, a crocodile was rescued from the Puja Garden area of Vadodara after getting stuck in one of the stormwater drain covers.&nbsp;

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Crocodiles swim to residential areas as Rainwater floods Vadodara city, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a> . The Forest department of Vadodara rescued crocodiles that swam to residential areas by the rainwaters.<a href="https://twitter.com/NewIndianXpress?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NewIndianXpress</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMornStandard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheMornStandard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/santwana99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@santwana99</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xxzd1CT5Yj">pic.twitter.com/Xxzd1CT5Yj</a>
— Dilip Singh Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kshatriyadilip/status/1547106293193768964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Most apartments near the&nbsp;Vishwamitri River had the USP of having a scenic view, overlooking the river. However, little did the buyers know that their lives would become troublesome, come monsoon, forcing them to stay locked up indoors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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The Kosi river is dubbed Bihar's sorrow during the rainy season. A similar sobriquet can be used for the Vishwamitri River which becomes a source of sorrow for the people of Vadodara in Gujarat during monsoon.

The Kosi river is dubbed Bihar's sorrow during the rainy season. A similar sobriquet can be used for the Vishwamitri River which becomes a source of sorrow for the people of Vadodara in Gujarat during monsoon. Reportedly, the residents living in the high-rise residential flat schemes near the bank of the river have to hold onto their dear life while stepping out as the flooded river means that crocodiles reach the gates of their buildings. It is estimated that the river, which intersects Vadodara, is home to over 300 crocodiles. After a spell of heavy rainfall, the river gets flooded; meaning, the crocodiles seek a place for shelter and generally end up in stormwater drains and underground drainage lines. Due to heavy rain in #Vadodara ,crocodiles are coming out of rivers and entering residential areas. video of a crocodile crossing road in Vadodara's Jambuwa village has gone viral,showing two bikers stopping while the crocodile was crossing road@NewIndianXpress @TheMornStandard pic.twitter.com/83Ttvt5yuO — Dilip Singh Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) July 17, 2022 × According to Neha Patel, an animal activist who rescues crocodiles, "The crocodiles travel several kilometres unnoticed through these drains. Several areas of Vadodara can spot crocodiles as now they are inside drainage lines." Vadodara has a stormwater drainage network that covers almost 410 kilometres. However, in some cases, these crocodiles reach the doors of the locals and threaten to bite or drag them. Read more: Watch: Teacher consoles his students who weep uncontrollably after his transfer; netizens tear up Most locals who dare to step out to purchase groceries have to use a rescue boat that ferries them out of the apartment. On an average, the authorities get around 25-30 calls of crocodiles being spotted every day during monsoon. While the crocodiles are a threat to the humans of the region, the same is also true for the reptiles. Earlier this month, a crocodile was rescued from the Puja Garden area of Vadodara after getting stuck in one of the stormwater drain covers. Crocodiles swim to residential areas as Rainwater floods Vadodara city, #Gujarat . The Forest department of Vadodara rescued crocodiles that swam to residential areas by the rainwaters.@NewIndianXpress @TheMornStandard @santwana99 pic.twitter.com/Xxzd1CT5Yj — Dilip Singh Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) July 13, 2022 × Most apartments near the Vishwamitri River had the USP of having a scenic view, overlooking the river. However, little did the buyers know that their lives would become troublesome, come monsoon, forcing them to stay locked up indoors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Crocodiles creep around, Vadodara residents remain locked up indoors

Ahead of India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the citizens to participate in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (Tricolour at every home) movement by hoisting the national flag in their homes between August 13-15.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, the PM wrote, "Today, 22nd July has a special relevance in our history. It was on this day in 1947 that our National Flag was adopted. Sharing some interesting nuggets from history including details of the committee associated with our Tricolour and the first Tricolour unfurled by Pandit Nehru."

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Today, 22nd July has a special relevance in our history. It was on this day in 1947 that our National Flag was adopted. Sharing some interesting nuggets from history including details of the committee associated with our Tricolour and the first Tricolour unfurled by Pandit Nehru. <a href="https://t.co/qseNetQn4W">pic.twitter.com/qseNetQn4W</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1550315398259961856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While PM mentioned the tricolour and how it was adopted on this day, it is pertinent to note that our national flag went through several iterations before it was agreed upon in the final and current version.&nbsp;

Bhagini (Sister) Nivedita flag - 1905

The first version of the Indian flag came in the year 1904 when Sister Nivedita, more fondly called as Bhagini Nivedita, a disciple of Swami Vivekananda designed a yellow and red flag with a 'Vajra' in the centre and 'Vande Mataram' written in Bengali in the centre.&nbsp;

<img alt="Bhagini Nivedita Flag" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6336affd-1bcc-46d9-8b4f-9927e01e2010" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_1905.jpg" />

Unofficial flag of India - 1906

On August 7, 1906, the first unofficial Indian flag was hoisted in Parsee Bagan (Modern day Girish Park)&nbsp;in Kolkata. This time, the flag had three equal horizontal stripes of green, yellow and red. Moreover, the top green strip had eight lotus flowers, half-opened in white. The crescent moon and the sun in the bottom red half represented Islam and Hinduism, respectively. Meanwhile, the centre panel in yellow had 'Vande Matram' written across it in the Devnagiri script.&nbsp;

<img alt="Calcutta flag" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a81949ea-d363-467f-8d51-3d35d0540c20" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1906_a.jpg" />

Berlin Committee Flag -1907

Later in the year, based on the flag unfurled at&nbsp;Parsee Bagan, another flag, which would come to be known as the 'Cama flag' or 'Berlin Committee flag' came into existence. It was collectively designed by Madam Bhikaji Cama, Veer Savarkar and Shyamji Krishna Varma. Instead of the red in the top horizontal space, it had saffron and eight lotuses.&nbsp;

<img alt="The Berlin Committee flag" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8c01d275-96a6-4709-95f8-ef0893e0b758" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1907.jpg" />

Reportedly, this was the first time that the Indian flag was unfurled at the international level. It was hoisted&nbsp;at the International Socialist Conference in Stuttgart, Germany. Another iteration of the same flag had&nbsp;one lotus and seven stars denoting saptarishi.&nbsp;

The Home Rule Movement flag - 1917

After two iterations of the national flag in a relatively short period, the next change only came in 1917. Designed by revolutionaries&nbsp;Annie Besant &amp; Lokmanya Tilak, this flag came at the peak of the 'Home rule movement'. The aim of the home rule movement was the attainment of home rule or a dominion status for India under the British empire.

This particular flag differed vastly from the Calcutta and Cama flags. Instead of three horizontal stripes, the new flag had&nbsp;five red and four green horizontal strips arranged alternately, with seven stars in the saptarishi configuration superimposed. In the top left corner lay the Union Jack while a white crescent star stood in the opposite corner.&nbsp;

<img alt="The flag used during the Home Rule movement in 1917" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d66d1806-c0e4-44c8-bdfc-723d34b6a18b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1917.jpg" />

National flag unofficially adopted in 1921

Four years later, when Mahatma Gandhi was visiting Vijayawada for the he All India Congress Committee,&nbsp;Pingali Venkayya designed a flag and submitted it to him. The flag initially had only green and red, representing Muslim and Hindu communities. However, Mahatma Gandhi suggested adding a white stripe&nbsp;and a spinning wheel or Chrakha. The spinning wheel was popularised by Gandhi as a symbol of nationalist struggle. Later on, this flag would lay the foundation of the current tricolour.

<img alt="The flag unofficially adopted in 1921" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="003db06c-d13a-44b6-9286-1eb94ddf563d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1921.jpg" />

Flag adopted in 1931

A decade later,&nbsp;Pingali Venkayya redesigned the flag to make it more inclusive. this time, the red was removed for saffron and placed at the top. The white stripe was dropped into the middle while green was retained at the bottom. The Charkha still found its place in the middle. However, it was clearly stated that the flag and its colour had no significance for any particular community.&nbsp;The Saffron signified strength, White stood for truth and the bottom depicted fertility. In the end, a resolution was passed by Congress to make it the official flag of the country.

<img alt="The flag adopted in 1931" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="048f7959-793b-4a53-99f8-d1a488b064e2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1931.jpg" />

The Tricolour

The final iteration of the current tricolour came in 1947. The charkha was replaced by Ashoka's Dharma chakra as the emblem on the flag in the middle white stripe. The Constituent assembly accepted and adopted its as the country's national flag. It served as the national flag of the Dominion of India between 15 August 1947 and 26 January 1950 and that of the Republic of India afterwards.

<img alt="The current tricolour" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="528dc4b0-b431-46b5-a60b-7307cb971d15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/india-flag.jpg" />

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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Ahead of India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the citizens to participate in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (Tricolour at every home) movement by hoisting the national flag in their homes between August 13-15.

Ahead of India's 75th Independence Day anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the citizens to participate in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (Tricolour at every home) movement by hoisting the national flag in their homes between August 13-15. Taking to Twitter, the PM wrote, "Today, 22nd July has a special relevance in our history. It was on this day in 1947 that our National Flag was adopted. Sharing some interesting nuggets from history including details of the committee associated with our Tricolour and the first Tricolour unfurled by Pandit Nehru." Today, 22nd July has a special relevance in our history. It was on this day in 1947 that our National Flag was adopted. Sharing some interesting nuggets from history including details of the committee associated with our Tricolour and the first Tricolour unfurled by Pandit Nehru. pic.twitter.com/qseNetQn4W — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 22, 2022 × While PM mentioned the tricolour and how it was adopted on this day, it is pertinent to note that our national flag went through several iterations before it was agreed upon in the final and current version. Bhagini (Sister) Nivedita flag - 1905 The first version of the Indian flag came in the year 1904 when Sister Nivedita, more fondly called as Bhagini Nivedita, a disciple of Swami Vivekananda designed a yellow and red flag with a 'Vajra' in the centre and 'Vande Mataram' written in Bengali in the centre. Unofficial flag of India - 1906 On August 7, 1906, the first unofficial Indian flag was hoisted in Parsee Bagan (Modern day Girish Park) in Kolkata. This time, the flag had three equal horizontal stripes of green, yellow and red. Moreover, the top green strip had eight lotus flowers, half-opened in white. The crescent moon and the sun in the bottom red half represented Islam and Hinduism, respectively. Meanwhile, the centre panel in yellow had 'Vande Matram' written across it in the Devnagiri script. Berlin Committee Flag -1907 Later in the year, based on the flag unfurled at Parsee Bagan, another flag, which would come to be known as the 'Cama flag' or 'Berlin Committee flag' came into existence. It was collectively designed by Madam Bhikaji Cama, Veer Savarkar and Shyamji Krishna Varma. Instead of the red in the top horizontal space, it had saffron and eight lotuses. Reportedly, this was the first time that the Indian flag was unfurled at the international level. It was hoisted at the International Socialist Conference in Stuttgart, Germany. Another iteration of the same flag had one lotus and seven stars denoting saptarishi. The Home Rule Movement flag - 1917 After two iterations of the national flag in a relatively short period, the next change only came in 1917. Designed by revolutionaries Annie Besant & Lokmanya Tilak, this flag came at the peak of the 'Home rule movement'. The aim of the home rule movement was the attainment of home rule or a dominion status for India under the British empire. This particular flag differed vastly from the Calcutta and Cama flags. Instead of three horizontal stripes, the new flag had five red and four green horizontal strips arranged alternately, with seven stars in the saptarishi configuration superimposed. In the top left corner lay the Union Jack while a white crescent star stood in the opposite corner. National flag unofficially adopted in 1921 Four years later, when Mahatma Gandhi was visiting Vijayawada for the he All India Congress Committee, Pingali Venkayya designed a flag and submitted it to him. The flag initially had only green and red, representing Muslim and Hindu communities. However, Mahatma Gandhi suggested adding a white stripe and a spinning wheel or Chrakha. The spinning wheel was popularised by Gandhi as a symbol of nationalist struggle. Later on, this flag would lay the foundation of the current tricolour. Flag adopted in 1931 A decade later, Pingali Venkayya redesigned the flag to make it more inclusive. this time, the red was removed for saffron and placed at the top. The white stripe was dropped into the middle while green was retained at the bottom. The Charkha still found its place in the middle. However, it was clearly stated that the flag and its colour had no significance for any particular community. The Saffron signified strength, White stood for truth and the bottom depicted fertility. In the end, a resolution was passed by Congress to make it the official flag of the country. The Tricolour The final iteration of the current tricolour came in 1947. The charkha was replaced by Ashoka's Dharma chakra as the emblem on the flag in the middle white stripe. The Constituent assembly accepted and adopted its as the country's national flag. It served as the national flag of the Dominion of India between 15 August 1947 and 26 January 1950 and that of the Republic of India afterwards. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's 75th Independence Day: History and evolution of the Indian national flag

Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Neeraj Chopra will aim to become India's first-ever World Championship gold medallist when he takes part in the men's javelin throw event at the World Athletics Championship 2022. This will be the second time Chopra will be competing at the senior World Athletics Championships.

Neeraj Chopra targets World Athletics Gold

One of the biggest buzzwords in the world of technology is 5G. Fifth generation, it is claimed to offer super fast speeds, it's said to be promising, it's passionately discussed by experts officials and enthusiasts but if you live in India the question you are perhaps asking is where is it?

5G Revolution: Is India ready for it?

India is going to get 5G services very soon. The country has the hardware to support 5G but do not have access to the technology yet. There are many questions about the use of 5G in India and we get you these answers right here.

Tech Talk: Tracking India's 5G journey

Searches conducted by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a drugs&amp; arms smuggling case, has led to the recovery and seizure of gadgets and incriminating documents. The premier agency responsible for investigating terror-related crimes in India had conducted searches across 22 premises said to be linked to a Sri Lankan drug mafia, across the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu.

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Statement from NIA points to serious conspiracy by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Srilankan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Srilankan</a> drug mafia in connection with a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> drug &amp; arms supplier 
 
The objective of these nefarious activities is said to be the revival of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LTTE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LTTE</a> 
 
Searches carried out at 22 locations in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NIA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NIA</a> <a href="https://t.co/VRkeynHeQg">pic.twitter.com/VRkeynHeQg</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1549798331278565377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu's capital city Chennai and other districts such as Thiruppur, Chengalpattu and Thiruchirapally were the locations that witnessed searches by the sleuths. According to the NIA, this is said to be in connection with illegal activities of the Sri Lankan drug mafia being operated by C.Gunashekharan and Pushparajah, in association with Haji Salim, a Pakistan-based drugs and arms supplier.&nbsp;

"These drugs and arms traffickers have been operating in India and Sri Lanka and working for the revival of LTTE and to further its violent activities", said the agency. The searches are based on a suo motu case that NIA registered in recent weeks. The case was filed under sections that covered serious offences that fall under criminal conspiracy, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act etc.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guards-big-haul-over-usd-412-million-worth-drugs-5-ak-47rifles-1000-rounds-seized-373189">Indian Coast Guard’s big haul: Over USD 412 million worth drugs, 5 Ak-47rifles, 1,000 rounds seized</a>&nbsp;

The case is said to be connected to the seizure of Ak-47 rifles and heroin from a Sri Lankan boat off the Kerala coast, in 2021.&nbsp;

Searches conducted by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a drugs& arms smuggling case, has led to the recovery and seizure of gadgets and incriminating documents.

Searches conducted by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a drugs& arms smuggling case, has led to the recovery and seizure of gadgets and incriminating documents. The premier agency responsible for investigating terror-related crimes in India had conducted searches across 22 premises said to be linked to a Sri Lankan drug mafia, across the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu. Statement from NIA points to serious conspiracy by #Srilankan drug mafia in connection with a #Pakistani drug & arms supplier The objective of these nefarious activities is said to be the revival of the #LTTE Searches carried out at 22 locations in #TamilNadu #india #NIA pic.twitter.com/VRkeynHeQg — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 20, 2022 × Tamil Nadu's capital city Chennai and other districts such as Thiruppur, Chengalpattu and Thiruchirapally were the locations that witnessed searches by the sleuths. According to the NIA, this is said to be in connection with illegal activities of the Sri Lankan drug mafia being operated by C.Gunashekharan and Pushparajah, in association with Haji Salim, a Pakistan-based drugs and arms supplier. "These drugs and arms traffickers have been operating in India and Sri Lanka and working for the revival of LTTE and to further its violent activities", said the agency. The searches are based on a suo motu case that NIA registered in recent weeks. The case was filed under sections that covered serious offences that fall under criminal conspiracy, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act etc. ALSO READ | Indian Coast Guard’s big haul: Over USD 412 million worth drugs, 5 Ak-47rifles, 1,000 rounds seized The case is said to be connected to the seizure of Ak-47 rifles and heroin from a Sri Lankan boat off the Kerala coast, in 2021.

India: NIA conducts searches on Sri Lanka-Pak drug & arms mafia operatives

The rupee sunk to a record low of 80 per US dollar today. For seven straight sessions, the rupee has been hitting record lows. Should you be worried? How can India stabilise the rupee? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: How will India stabilise the rupee?

A new shopping mall in India's Lucknow city is at the centre of a communal row. Right-wing groups claim Muslim men tried to stoke tensions by offering prayers inside the mall. Palki Sharma tells you how this episode reflects poorly on India's business-friendly image.

Gravitas: Lulu mall row hurting India's business-friendly image?

India has reported more than 670,000 cyber security cases until June of this year, Union minister of state, home affairs, Ajay Kumar Mishra said in Lok Sabha on Tuesday (July 19). Sharing additional details, Mishra said that from 2019 until last month, India has reported more than three million such cases. The information was reported to and monitored by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-in), he added.

In a written reply to a query in the Lok Sabha, Mishra said “...a total of 394,499, 1,158,208, 1,402,809 and 674,021 cyber security incidents were observed in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 (up to June), respectively,” Hindustan Times reported.

According to Mishra, the government has taken numerous steps to strengthen cyber security and prevent cyber attacks, including regularly issuing several alerts and advisories regarding the recent ongoing cyber threats and security flaws and providing security measures to safeguard computers and networks.

Alsoread |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/commerce-ministry-permits-maximum-one-year-work-from-home-in-sezs-499045">Commerce Ministry permits maximum one year work from home in SEZs</a>

<o:p></o:p>

In order to proactively gather, analyse and share tailored alerts with organisations across different sectors for them to take proactive threat mitigation activities, Mishra said that the government operates an automated cyber threat exchange platform. 
Mishra further said that the government has established guidelines for Chief Information Security Officers detailing their primary tasks and responsibilities for safeguarding apps and infrastructure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sidhu-moose-wala-murder-case-encounter-breaks-out-between-punjab-police-and-shooters-499118">Also read | Sidhu Moose Wala murder case: Encounter breaks out between Punjab Police and shooters</a>

Prior to hosting, all government websites and applications are evaluated for cyber security; and continuous audits are carried out on the websites after their hosting, PTI reported. 
 
Mishra said 97 security auditing organisations have been appointed by the government to support and check the applications for information and best security practices.

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India has reported more than 670,000 cyber security cases until June of this year, Union minister of state, home affairs, Ajay Kumar Mishra said in Lok Sabha on Tuesday (July 19).

India has reported more than 670,000 cyber security cases until June of this year, Union minister of state, home affairs, Ajay Kumar Mishra said in Lok Sabha on Tuesday (July 19). Sharing additional details, Mishra said that from 2019 until last month, India has reported more than three million such cases. The information was reported to and monitored by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-in), he added. In a written reply to a query in the Lok Sabha, Mishra said “...a total of 394,499, 1,158,208, 1,402,809 and 674,021 cyber security incidents were observed in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 (up to June), respectively,” Hindustan Times reported. According to Mishra, the government has taken numerous steps to strengthen cyber security and prevent cyber attacks, including regularly issuing several alerts and advisories regarding the recent ongoing cyber threats and security flaws and providing security measures to safeguard computers and networks. Alsoread | Commerce Ministry permits maximum one year work from home in SEZs In order to proactively gather, analyse and share tailored alerts with organisations across different sectors for them to take proactive threat mitigation activities, Mishra said that the government operates an automated cyber threat exchange platform. Mishra further said that the government has established guidelines for Chief Information Security Officers detailing their primary tasks and responsibilities for safeguarding apps and infrastructure. Also read | Sidhu Moose Wala murder case: Encounter breaks out between Punjab Police and shooters Prior to hosting, all government websites and applications are evaluated for cyber security; and continuous audits are carried out on the websites after their hosting, PTI reported. Mishra said 97 security auditing organisations have been appointed by the government to support and check the applications for information and best security practices. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India reports more than 670K cyber security cases until June

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is struggling for big knocks at the highest level, with his century-drought nearing 1,000 days. For how long will Kohli be persisted and when will he finally regain form? Only time will tell...

Nearing 1,000 days without an international ton: What's wrong with Virat Kohli?

India and Namibia will sign pact the much-awaited pact on Cheetah relocation on Wednesday. The pact will be signed between Indian Environment minister Bhupender Yadav and Namibia's foreign minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who is on an India visit for the India-Africa conclave.&nbsp;

India is expected to get a dozen of Cheetah from Namibia under the pact, the first pact anywhere in the world for the transcontinental transfer of such large numbers of carnivorous animals.&nbsp;

The Cheetah will be brought to India before August 15 on a special flight. The Cheetahs from the African country will be relocated to MP's Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary. India is also in touch with South Africa to get another batch of Cheetahs. The number of Cheetahs India is will be relocating from South Africa is expected to be around 40.&nbsp;

Cheetahs, the fastest land animal got extinct in India in the 1950s, majorly because of excessive hunting. The last cheetahs in the wild were recorded in 1948 when three cheetahs were shot in the forests of Koriya District, Chhattisgarh. In past India has been in touch with Iran for Cheetah relocation, but the plan did not pick up.&nbsp;

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India and Namibia will sign pact the much-awaited pact on Cheetah relocation on Wednesday. The pact will be signed between Indian Environment minister Bhupender Yadav and Namibia's foreign minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who is on an India visit for the India-Africa conclave.

India and Namibia will sign pact the much-awaited pact on Cheetah relocation on Wednesday. The pact will be signed between Indian Environment minister Bhupender Yadav and Namibia's foreign minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who is on an India visit for the India-Africa conclave. India is expected to get a dozen of Cheetah from Namibia under the pact, the first pact anywhere in the world for the transcontinental transfer of such large numbers of carnivorous animals. The Cheetah will be brought to India before August 15 on a special flight. The Cheetahs from the African country will be relocated to MP's Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary. India is also in touch with South Africa to get another batch of Cheetahs. The number of Cheetahs India is will be relocating from South Africa is expected to be around 40. Cheetahs, the fastest land animal got extinct in India in the 1950s, majorly because of excessive hunting. The last cheetahs in the wild were recorded in 1948 when three cheetahs were shot in the forests of Koriya District, Chhattisgarh. In past India has been in touch with Iran for Cheetah relocation, but the plan did not pick up. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India to sign pact on Cheetah relocation with Namibia on Wednesday

The Indian rupee hit 80 per dollar on Tuesday (July 19), for the first time ever, yet another record low, as international investors kept offloading the Indian stocks. The rupee fell to 80.06 against the dollar. The currency has been impacted by the nation’s record high foreign equity outflows of about $30 billion so far this year, now worrying about a widening current account deficit in the face of high oil and commodities prices. The Indian policymakers have taken various steps to stop the rupee’s slide such as from intervention to hiking import taxes on gold, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

As per Governor Shaktikanta Das, the Indian central bank is intervening in all market segments to reduce the risk and support a currency’s orderly appreciation or depreciation. However, the Indian rupee touched a record low for the seventh straight session on Tuesday, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-set-it-on-course-to-becoming-the-fastest-growing-economy-in-the-world-rbi-498137">India is 'on course to becoming the fastest growing economy in the world': RBI</a>

The RBI has been using its $600 billion in foreign exchange reserves to defend the Indian rupee. Additionally, the monetary authorities enabled trade to be settled in rupees and announced initiatives to increase the foreign currency inflows into the nation.&nbsp;

However, Tuesday saw a decline in oil prices as the dollar fueled purchasing demand. As the West sanctions in Russia, the supplies have disrupted trade flows to refiners and have been a thorn on the side of the oil markets. At the same time, there have been growing concerns that the central bank's efforts to tame surging inflation may lead to recession, which would reduce future fuel demand. Despite the decline in oil prices, several banks were already charging 80 rupees for every dollar in the exchange rate, the State Bank of India said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-rupee-set-to-depreciate-further-all-set-to-breach-80-per-us-dollar-497209">Indian rupee set to depreciate further, to breach 80 per US dollar</a>

However, it is expected that the&nbsp;rupee might fall to 82 to the dollar by September this year, according to strategists at Nomura holdings Inc. and Morgan Stanley, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

The rupee has been reported to reach fresh record lows practically every other day in recent months, and traders believe this trend will continue.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Indian rupee hit 80 per dollar on Tuesday (July 19), for the first time ever, yet another record low, as international investors kept offloading the Indian stocks.

The Indian rupee hit 80 per dollar on Tuesday (July 19), for the first time ever, yet another record low, as international investors kept offloading the Indian stocks. The rupee fell to 80.06 against the dollar. The currency has been impacted by the nation’s record high foreign equity outflows of about $30 billion so far this year, now worrying about a widening current account deficit in the face of high oil and commodities prices. The Indian policymakers have taken various steps to stop the rupee’s slide such as from intervention to hiking import taxes on gold, Bloomberg reported. As per Governor Shaktikanta Das, the Indian central bank is intervening in all market segments to reduce the risk and support a currency’s orderly appreciation or depreciation. However, the Indian rupee touched a record low for the seventh straight session on Tuesday, Reuters reported. Also read | India is 'on course to becoming the fastest growing economy in the world': RBI The RBI has been using its $600 billion in foreign exchange reserves to defend the Indian rupee. Additionally, the monetary authorities enabled trade to be settled in rupees and announced initiatives to increase the foreign currency inflows into the nation. However, Tuesday saw a decline in oil prices as the dollar fueled purchasing demand. As the West sanctions in Russia, the supplies have disrupted trade flows to refiners and have been a thorn on the side of the oil markets. At the same time, there have been growing concerns that the central bank's efforts to tame surging inflation may lead to recession, which would reduce future fuel demand. Despite the decline in oil prices, several banks were already charging 80 rupees for every dollar in the exchange rate, the State Bank of India said. Also read | Indian rupee set to depreciate further, to breach 80 per US dollar However, it is expected that the rupee might fall to 82 to the dollar by September this year, according to strategists at Nomura holdings Inc. and Morgan Stanley, Bloomberg reported. The rupee has been reported to reach fresh record lows practically every other day in recent months, and traders believe this trend will continue. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian rupee hits low of 80 per dollar for the first time ever

India has confirmed its second case of Monkeypox infection just five days after it detected its first one. The second case has also been detected from the southern Indian state of Kerala where the first case was reported on July 14.

India reports second case of Monkeypox, special alert in 5 districts of Kerala

Floods in India's western state of Gujarat have submerged at least 7,000 hectares of land which includes agricultural land causing severe damage to crops apart from the damage caused to the farmlands.

WION Climate Tracker: Floods hit India's Maharashtra & Gujarat, farmlands suffer major damage

A blame game has erupted after an embarrassing incident of girls being asked to remove their innerwear, before entering an exam hall came to light. The incident took place in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, when a private college in Kollam hosted the pan-India NEET Exam for entrance to medical courses, on Sunday 17th&nbsp;July.&nbsp;

The issue of girl students' basic rights and dignity being violated came to light after a parent filed a Police complaint regarding the incident. The complaint alleged that officials at the examination centre in Kollam had forced his daughter to take off her inner wear and then go to the hall. This is said to have been the plight of several other girls, as they reportedly had to leave their innerwear behind at a separate room. The complaint mentioned the mental agony faced by the students and how they were allegedly asked by supervisors - "is your innerwear important, or your future?"

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On the horrific incident on girl students being asked to remove inner wear at a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEET2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEET2022</a> exam centre in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> - KL has written to <a href="https://twitter.com/DG_NTA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DG_NTA</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/EduMinOfIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EduMinOfIndia</a> 
 
Students are protesting in KL 
 
NCW writes to KL DGP &amp; NTA 
 
NTA says such incident didn’t happen, student took test <a href="https://t.co/2upwJHRa9p">pic.twitter.com/2upwJHRa9p</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1549394685428391940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Amid protests by various student organizations in Kerala, the state Government has taken up the matter with the Central government and the National Testing Authority, which conducts the NEET exam. Kerala's Higher Education Minister R.Bindu wrote to the Union Education Minister and the Chairperson of the NTA, demanding action and to ensure that such incidents don't recur in future.&nbsp;

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken cognisance of this incident and written to the NTA to conduct an independent inquiry and take action. The NCW has also written to the Head of Kerala Police (Director General of Police) to conduct an investigation and register a case, besides having to share the action taken within three days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-reviving-its-tourism-sector-through-womens-participation-498899" hreflang="en">Nepal reviving its tourism sector through women's participation</a>

Meanwhile, NTA is said to have issued a statement mentioning that the&nbsp;Centre Superintendent, Independent Observer and the City Coordinator, Kollam district, did not find any such incident happening in the centre. It was also added that the said candidate did take the examination and that there was no complaint regarding the matter during or after the exam or via E-mail to the agency. Reportedly, the authorities from the private college that was the exam centre denied role of their staff in this incident and alleged that personnel from NTA were involved.&nbsp;

A blame game has erupted after an embarrassing incident of girls being asked to remove their innerwear, before entering an exam hall came to light. The incident took place in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, when a private college in Kollam hosted the pan-India NEET Exam for entrance to medical courses, on Sunday 17th July.

A blame game has erupted after an embarrassing incident of girls being asked to remove their innerwear, before entering an exam hall came to light. The incident took place in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, when a private college in Kollam hosted the pan-India NEET Exam for entrance to medical courses, on Sunday 17th July. The issue of girl students' basic rights and dignity being violated came to light after a parent filed a Police complaint regarding the incident. The complaint alleged that officials at the examination centre in Kollam had forced his daughter to take off her inner wear and then go to the hall. This is said to have been the plight of several other girls, as they reportedly had to leave their innerwear behind at a separate room. The complaint mentioned the mental agony faced by the students and how they were allegedly asked by supervisors - "is your innerwear important, or your future?" On the horrific incident on girl students being asked to remove inner wear at a #NEET2022 exam centre in #kerala - KL has written to @DG_NTA & @EduMinOfIndia Students are protesting in KL NCW writes to KL DGP & NTA NTA says such incident didn’t happen, student took test pic.twitter.com/2upwJHRa9p — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 19, 2022 × Amid protests by various student organizations in Kerala, the state Government has taken up the matter with the Central government and the National Testing Authority, which conducts the NEET exam. Kerala's Higher Education Minister R.Bindu wrote to the Union Education Minister and the Chairperson of the NTA, demanding action and to ensure that such incidents don't recur in future. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken cognisance of this incident and written to the NTA to conduct an independent inquiry and take action. The NCW has also written to the Head of Kerala Police (Director General of Police) to conduct an investigation and register a case, besides having to share the action taken within three days. Also read | Nepal reviving its tourism sector through women's participation Meanwhile, NTA is said to have issued a statement mentioning that the Centre Superintendent, Independent Observer and the City Coordinator, Kollam district, did not find any such incident happening in the centre. It was also added that the said candidate did take the examination and that there was no complaint regarding the matter during or after the exam or via E-mail to the agency. Reportedly, the authorities from the private college that was the exam centre denied role of their staff in this incident and alleged that personnel from NTA were involved.

India: Blame game ensues, after girl students forced to remove innerwear at exam centre

Indian cops have busted a fake IPL tournament in the western state of Gujarat. The organisers paid farmers to dress up as players and duped Russian punters into placing bets. Mariam Wardak tells you how this elaborate cricketing con was exposed.

South Asia Diary | Indian cops bust fake IPL tournament

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