<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While saying that Indian opposition was “directionless”, PM Modi reportedly cited the Islamist terrorist group ‘Indian Mujahideen’ to attack the name ‘INDIA’ that the country’s 26 major opposition parties gave to their alliance in a key meeting last week.</p>

<p>The so-called INDIA coalition is an acronym for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance.</p>

<p>"They keep praising themselves for the name INDIA. Indian National Congress,&nbsp;East India Company,&nbsp;Indian Mujahideen,&nbsp;Popular Front of India - these are also INDIA. Just using the name INDIA does not mean anything," top BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad quoted the PM as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Manipur video case: Juvenile among 7 held over Manipur incident, Opposition demands debate</strong></p>

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<p>"As the Britishers came and named themselves East India Company, in the same way, the opposition is presenting itself in the name of India,” the PM said.</p>

<p>PM Modi gave these remarks at BJP’s parliamentary party meeting held Tuesday amid the raging demand from the opposition to hold a debate over Manipur ethnic violence in parliament.</p>

<p>The PM also added that the people cannot be misled just by using the country’s name.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition ‘defeated, tired and hopeless’</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister also said that the conduct of the opposition shows they have made up their minds to remain in the opposition. He described the opposition as "defeated, tired, hopeless, with a single-point agenda - opposing Modi".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-violence-in-manipur-over-700-myanmar-nationals-enter-indian-state-in-just-two-days-619129"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Amid violence in Manipur, over 700 Myanmar nationals enter Indian state in just two days</strong></a></p>

<p>PM Modi also expressed confidence that the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will easily win the 2024 general elections with the people’s immense support.</p>

<h2><strong>Manipur row</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi’s attack on INDIA comes at a time when the monsoon session of the Indian Parliament is underway. Both houses of the Indian parliament have been adjourned repeatedly, halting the government’s plan to push key legislations.</p>

<p>INDIA alliance has been demanding PM Modi issue a detailed statement over Manipur violence in parliament.<br />
Members of Parliament (MPs) from the INDIA alliance said they will hold a meeting on Tuesday at the office of the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss further strategy over house proceedings.</p>

<p>Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said their only demand from PM Modi was to release a statement on Manipur inside the parliament, adding that the protest will continue until their demands are met.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella. While saying that Indian opposition was “directionless”, PM Modi reportedly cited the Islamist terrorist group ‘Indian Mujahideen’ to attack the name ‘INDIA’ that the country’s 26 major opposition parties gave to their alliance in a key meeting last week. The so-called INDIA coalition is an acronym for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. "They keep praising themselves for the name INDIA. Indian National Congress, East India Company, Indian Mujahideen, Popular Front of India - these are also INDIA. Just using the name INDIA does not mean anything," top BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad quoted the PM as saying. Watch: Manipur video case: Juvenile among 7 held over Manipur incident, Opposition demands debate × "As the Britishers came and named themselves East India Company, in the same way, the opposition is presenting itself in the name of India,” the PM said. PM Modi gave these remarks at BJP’s parliamentary party meeting held Tuesday amid the raging demand from the opposition to hold a debate over Manipur ethnic violence in parliament. The PM also added that the people cannot be misled just by using the country’s name. Opposition ‘defeated, tired and hopeless’ The Indian prime minister also said that the conduct of the opposition shows they have made up their minds to remain in the opposition. He described the opposition as "defeated, tired, hopeless, with a single-point agenda - opposing Modi". Also read: Amid violence in Manipur, over 700 Myanmar nationals enter Indian state in just two days PM Modi also expressed confidence that the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will easily win the 2024 general elections with the people’s immense support. Manipur row PM Modi’s attack on INDIA comes at a time when the monsoon session of the Indian Parliament is underway. Both houses of the Indian parliament have been adjourned repeatedly, halting the government’s plan to push key legislations. INDIA alliance has been demanding PM Modi issue a detailed statement over Manipur violence in parliament. Members of Parliament (MPs) from the INDIA alliance said they will hold a meeting on Tuesday at the office of the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss further strategy over house proceedings. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said their only demand from PM Modi was to release a statement on Manipur inside the parliament, adding that the protest will continue until their demands are met. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Indian Mujahideen also has India in its name': PM Modi blasts ‘INDIA’ coalition

Chandryaan-3 is on its way to the Moon. All eyes are set on its soft-landing on lunar surface. India is all set to revisit the moon after four years. India is attempting what only by far three nations have accomplished. ISRO is once again attempting soft-landing on the moo

Chandrayaan-3: What makes soft-land on the moon such a difficult task?

There's some good news for India on the foreign exchange front. India's foreign exchange reserves have crossed the 600 billion mark. That's for the first time since May 2022. The forex reserves stand at 609 billion dollars on July 14. This was a 15-month-high and comes amid a rise in dollar inflow.

Forex reserves stood at $609 billion on July 14

<p>The commerce ministry on Monday released a statement saying that India and the United Kingdom have concluded the 11th round of negotiations for&nbsp;what is termed as a proposed free trade agreement (FTA). The statement further added that the next round of negotiations will take place in the coming months.</p>

<p>India and the United Kingdom are making efforts towards straightening differences on issues like intellectual property rights (IPRs) and rules of origin under the agreement, for which the negotiations began in January 2021.</p>

<p>"On July 18, the UK and India concluded the eleventh round of talks for the UK-India FTA. Technical discussions were held across nine policy areas over 42 separate sessions. They included detailed draft treaty text discussions in these policy areas," it said.</p>

<p>Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal visited the United Kingdom on July 10-11 to participate in the 11th round of the negotiations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-convicted-of-disobeying-police-slapped-with-fine-618912">Greta Thunberg convicted of disobeying police, slapped with fine</a></p>

<p>He met with Kemi Badenoch MP, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and Nigel Huddleston MP, the Minister of State for International Trade, where they had discussions on ways to&nbsp;make&nbsp;progress on the negotiations and also wider trade and investment opportunities for the United Kingdom and India.</p>

<p>During the several rounds of talks, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal also visited the United Kingdom. He met with senior UK trade officials and took stock of the progress made in the 11th round of negotiations.</p>

<p>The 12th round of talks is scheduled to take place in the coming months. The negotiations between the two countries for the agreement cloak as many as 26 policy areas/chapters.</p>

<p>Investment is being negotiated as a separate agreement (bilateral investment treaty) between India and the United Kingdom and would be concluded simultaneously with the free trade agreement.</p>

<p>Both countries missed the deadline last year due to economic and political crises in the UK.</p>

<p>The Indian industry is demanding greater access for its skilled professionals in the United Kingdom market and entry of Indian whiskey by removing conditions pertaining to the three-year minimum maturity&nbsp;period. The UK is also pursuing a significant cut in the import duties on Scotch whiskey. Britain is also looking for more opportunities for UK services in the Indian markets.</p>

<p>The bilateral trade between the countries has increased to USD 20.36 billion in 2022-23 from USD 17.5 billion in 2021-22.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The commerce ministry on Monday released a statement saying that India and the United Kingdom have concluded the 11th round of negotiations for what is termed as a proposed free trade agreement (FTA).

The commerce ministry on Monday released a statement saying that India and the United Kingdom have concluded the 11th round of negotiations for what is termed as a proposed free trade agreement (FTA). The statement further added that the next round of negotiations will take place in the coming months. India and the United Kingdom are making efforts towards straightening differences on issues like intellectual property rights (IPRs) and rules of origin under the agreement, for which the negotiations began in January 2021. "On July 18, the UK and India concluded the eleventh round of talks for the UK-India FTA. Technical discussions were held across nine policy areas over 42 separate sessions. They included detailed draft treaty text discussions in these policy areas," it said. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal visited the United Kingdom on July 10-11 to participate in the 11th round of the negotiations. Also read: Greta Thunberg convicted of disobeying police, slapped with fine He met with Kemi Badenoch MP, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and Nigel Huddleston MP, the Minister of State for International Trade, where they had discussions on ways to make progress on the negotiations and also wider trade and investment opportunities for the United Kingdom and India. During the several rounds of talks, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal also visited the United Kingdom. He met with senior UK trade officials and took stock of the progress made in the 11th round of negotiations. The 12th round of talks is scheduled to take place in the coming months. The negotiations between the two countries for the agreement cloak as many as 26 policy areas/chapters. Investment is being negotiated as a separate agreement (bilateral investment treaty) between India and the United Kingdom and would be concluded simultaneously with the free trade agreement. Both countries missed the deadline last year due to economic and political crises in the UK. The Indian industry is demanding greater access for its skilled professionals in the United Kingdom market and entry of Indian whiskey by removing conditions pertaining to the three-year minimum maturity period. The UK is also pursuing a significant cut in the import duties on Scotch whiskey. Britain is also looking for more opportunities for UK services in the Indian markets. The bilateral trade between the countries has increased to USD 20.36 billion in 2022-23 from USD 17.5 billion in 2021-22. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months

Paytm, India's pioneering digital payments firm, is making headlines with a spectacular 39% rise in its quarterly revenue. Amid soaring demand for loans, the parent company, one 97 communications ltd, reported 286 million dollars in revenue for the three months ending June 30th, surpassing last year's figures. Paytm also accomplished an operating profit for the third consecutive quarter, reaching over 10 million dollars. the net loss has narrowed to over 43 million dollars, showcasing a remarkable turnaround.

Paytm reports 39% rise in quarterly revenue

In a major setback, India has rejected Chinese EV maker BYD's proposal to set up a 1 billion dollar plant. The EV maker had a proposed a joint venture with a Hyderabad-based company. Earlier this month, the BYD submitted a plan to the Indian Government, seeking permission to build EVS and car batteries with Megha Engineering & Infrastructure ltd. Reports suggest that security concerns over Chinese investments could be the reason behind India's blocking the deal.

India says no to BYD's investment | World Business Watch

Indian producer Guneet Monga has become well-known after winning the Oscar for this year's film, "The Elephant Whisperers," which won the award. She was just named the new India Ambassador for the Bafta Breakthrough Awards. Watch the award-winning producer in an exclusive conversation with WION's special correspondent Abira Dhar.

'The Elephant Whisperers' producer Guneet Monga in an exclusive conversation with WION

<p>India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>The top court's ruling that stayed a Varanasi district court order for the survey came on the plea submitted by the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee.</p>

<p>The court granted the Gyanvapi mosque management committee time till July 26 to approach the Allahabad High Court against the lower court's order and said that till that time, the status quo be maintained at the site.</p>

<p>At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asi-reaches-gyanvapi-mosque-to-conduct-scientific-survey-of-complex-618754">India: ASI reaches Gyanvapi mosque to conduct scientific survey of complex</a></p>

<p>The management committee of the mosque had expressed its apprehensions that the survey may involve excavation at the complex which is located next to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Varanasi.</p>

<p>SC recorded the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and stated that no excavations are being carried out by the ASI as per the district court's order and no excavation has been planned for a week.</p>

<h2><strong>'Not a brick removed'</strong></h2>

<p>Informing the court about the current developments, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said, "Not a brick has been removed nor is it planned to be removed. Right now what is going on is measurement, photography, and radar, which will not affect the structure."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Supreme Court told advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, that no excavation will be carried out for two weeks and that the ASI is not touching the structure currently and just carrying out the measurement and photography, which will not hamper the place of worship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It appears that ASI is not contemplating carrying out any excavation in pursuance of the order. We record the statement to the extent that no excavation at the site is contemplated at this stage for a period of one week until next week Monday," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, taking the submissions of the centre on record.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'PM Modi envisions a semiconductor ecosystem in India' says Rajeev Chandrasekhar</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking about Supreme Court's order, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain who was representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi mosque case, said, "Supreme Court has put a stay on the order of the District Court on survey of the Mosque complex and has asked the Allahabad Court to decide matter afresh. We will keep our argument in at Allahabad HC. The Muslim side, Anjuman Intezamia misled the SC and said that digging has started there, which is not true."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Varanasi district magistrate said it will abide by the top court order.</p>

<h2><strong>ASI team reaches the mosque</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)&nbsp; reached the Gyanvapi mosque complex to carry out the scientific survey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team of ASI had reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey.&nbsp;</p>

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India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The top court's ruling that stayed a Varanasi district court order for the survey came on the plea submitted by the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee. The court granted the Gyanvapi mosque management committee time till July 26 to approach the Allahabad High Court against the lower court's order and said that till that time, the status quo be maintained at the site. At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain. ALSO READ | India: ASI reaches Gyanvapi mosque to conduct scientific survey of complex The management committee of the mosque had expressed its apprehensions that the survey may involve excavation at the complex which is located next to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Varanasi. SC recorded the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and stated that no excavations are being carried out by the ASI as per the district court's order and no excavation has been planned for a week. 'Not a brick removed' Informing the court about the current developments, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said, "Not a brick has been removed nor is it planned to be removed. Right now what is going on is measurement, photography, and radar, which will not affect the structure." The Supreme Court told advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, that no excavation will be carried out for two weeks and that the ASI is not touching the structure currently and just carrying out the measurement and photography, which will not hamper the place of worship. "It appears that ASI is not contemplating carrying out any excavation in pursuance of the order. We record the statement to the extent that no excavation at the site is contemplated at this stage for a period of one week until next week Monday," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, taking the submissions of the centre on record. WATCH | 'PM Modi envisions a semiconductor ecosystem in India' says Rajeev Chandrasekhar Speaking about Supreme Court's order, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain who was representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi mosque case, said, "Supreme Court has put a stay on the order of the District Court on survey of the Mosque complex and has asked the Allahabad Court to decide matter afresh. We will keep our argument in at Allahabad HC. The Muslim side, Anjuman Intezamia misled the SC and said that digging has started there, which is not true." Meanwhile, Varanasi district magistrate said it will abide by the top court order. ASI team reaches the mosque Earlier in the day, the team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reached the Gyanvapi mosque complex to carry out the scientific survey. The team of ASI had reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Supreme Court stays Varanasi court order on Gyanvapi Mosque survey

<p>The northern Indian state of Punjab, known for its bumper agricultural output, is facing the wrath of climate change, a new research by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has revealed.&nbsp;The scientists studied&nbsp;the monsoon data and patterns over the past five decades to conclude that the rainy season was now staying far longer than the normal duration but the amount of rainfall was decreasing while remaining unevenly distributed.</p>

<p>Farmers in Punjab grow some of the most water-guzzling crops in the country and a bountiful monsoon season is necessary to ensure that the yield is proper. However, in the absence of required rain, lack of crop diversification and indiscriminate pumping of groundwater - Punjab might be heading towards becoming a 'water deficit desert', the study showed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“During the monsoon season, paddy is the main crop grown in the state. The area under paddy has increased from 0.6 Mha during 1970 to 3.01 Mha during 2018, an increase of 400 per cent. To irrigate this water-guzzling crop, farmers are dependent either on monsoon rainfall or on underground water," read the study, conducted by&nbsp;senior agro meteorologists Sarabjot Kaur Sandhu and Prabhjyot Kaur.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-urban-india-prone-to-floods-617923"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Why is urban India prone to floods?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>17 years of deficient monsoon rainfall&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The study added that monsoon patterns had aggravated in the last two decades (2001 onwards), compounding&nbsp;the problem. Between 2001 and 2020, Punjab recorded deficient monsoon rainfall in 17 years, despite monsoon lasting more than the normal 77 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But over the last two decades, the duration of monsoon currents has increased but the rate of rainfall is well below the average of 6 mm/day. Also, the distribution of the rainfall during the season is highly variable during the four months. The sudden and heavy shower of rainfall received in a short span of time is not only declining the water productivity of crops but also hampering the recharging of underground aquifers."</p>

<p>Explaining how the rainfall was affecting the region, the study stated that the northeastern regions of the state lying in the foothills of Shivalik (the lowest range of the Himalayas) were receiving less rainfall over the years, which skewed the average distribution statistic.</p>

<p>The low to medium rainfall in June, and July meant that groundwater resources were heavily stretched out while heavy rainfall in September, delayed the maturity and harvesting of the paddy crop.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-flood-like-situation-in-parts-of-gujarat-yamuna-above-danger-level-again-618571"><strong>WATCH | Flood-like situation in parts of Gujarat, Yamuna above danger level again</strong></a></p>

<p>The study also notes that erratic changes in the rainfall pattern have led to a shift in the climate of&nbsp;Indo-Gangetic plains (IGP) and northeast India - meaning Punjab, which lies in IGP, and already has a semi-arid and subtropical climate was heading towards a relatively arid regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Up until Sunday (July 23), Punjab had received 57.7 per cent of the normal rainfall of the entire monsoon season with two months to go.&nbsp;Punjab recorded 248.1 mm of rain to date against the normal required 168.3 mm, representing a 47 per cent&nbsp;surplus. However, experts are wary that the rainfall may have come in short, excessive bursts that cause more damage to the crops, instead of low, continuous intensity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The northern Indian state of Punjab, known for its bumper agricultural output, is facing the wrath of climate change, a new research by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has revealed.

The northern Indian state of Punjab, known for its bumper agricultural output, is facing the wrath of climate change, a new research by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has revealed. The scientists studied the monsoon data and patterns over the past five decades to conclude that the rainy season was now staying far longer than the normal duration but the amount of rainfall was decreasing while remaining unevenly distributed. Farmers in Punjab grow some of the most water-guzzling crops in the country and a bountiful monsoon season is necessary to ensure that the yield is proper. However, in the absence of required rain, lack of crop diversification and indiscriminate pumping of groundwater - Punjab might be heading towards becoming a 'water deficit desert', the study showed. “During the monsoon season, paddy is the main crop grown in the state. The area under paddy has increased from 0.6 Mha during 1970 to 3.01 Mha during 2018, an increase of 400 per cent. To irrigate this water-guzzling crop, farmers are dependent either on monsoon rainfall or on underground water," read the study, conducted by senior agro meteorologists Sarabjot Kaur Sandhu and Prabhjyot Kaur. Watch | Why is urban India prone to floods? × 17 years of deficient monsoon rainfall The study added that monsoon patterns had aggravated in the last two decades (2001 onwards), compounding the problem. Between 2001 and 2020, Punjab recorded deficient monsoon rainfall in 17 years, despite monsoon lasting more than the normal 77 days. "But over the last two decades, the duration of monsoon currents has increased but the rate of rainfall is well below the average of 6 mm/day. Also, the distribution of the rainfall during the season is highly variable during the four months. The sudden and heavy shower of rainfall received in a short span of time is not only declining the water productivity of crops but also hampering the recharging of underground aquifers." Explaining how the rainfall was affecting the region, the study stated that the northeastern regions of the state lying in the foothills of Shivalik (the lowest range of the Himalayas) were receiving less rainfall over the years, which skewed the average distribution statistic. The low to medium rainfall in June, and July meant that groundwater resources were heavily stretched out while heavy rainfall in September, delayed the maturity and harvesting of the paddy crop. WATCH | Flood-like situation in parts of Gujarat, Yamuna above danger level again The study also notes that erratic changes in the rainfall pattern have led to a shift in the climate of Indo-Gangetic plains (IGP) and northeast India - meaning Punjab, which lies in IGP, and already has a semi-arid and subtropical climate was heading towards a relatively arid regime. Up until Sunday (July 23), Punjab had received 57.7 per cent of the normal rainfall of the entire monsoon season with two months to go. Punjab recorded 248.1 mm of rain to date against the normal required 168.3 mm, representing a 47 per cent surplus. However, experts are wary that the rainfall may have come in short, excessive bursts that cause more damage to the crops, instead of low, continuous intensity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's Punjab may become 'water deficit desert' due to climate change: Study

Moving on from India to neighbouring countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Where monsoon rainfall continues to cause problems. The torrential rains have caused flooding, landslides leading to loss of lives and damage to infrastructure. In Pakistan, at least 13 people have died and seven have been injured due to landslides and heavy rains. Nine people lost their lives in rain-related incidents over the last 48 hours in the northwestern province of khyber pakhtunkhwa. Heavy rainfall & thunderstorms wreaked havoc, causing damage to dozens of houses in the region.

Greece wildfire in Rhode Islands forces tourists to flee

Meanwhile, unusually heavy monsoons and their economic implications are taking a toll on India. Many states experience heavy financial losses as torrential rain damage infrastructure.in Gujarat Junagadh and Navsari are the worst affected areas. The pictures displayed on your screen are from Junagadh, which experienced the most severe impact as the city recorded a rainfall of 241 mm in the span of 24 hours.

Heavy monsoon rainfall triggers orange alert in four Indian states | WION Climate Tracker

Floods, cyclones and natural disasters affecting different parts of the world at the moment under India's G20 Presidency. A lot of emphasis is being laid on Disaster Risk Reduction for the first time ever in the G20.

'India bringing G20 together on Disaster Risk Reduction,' says Principal Secy to India's PM | WION

Following incessant downpours across the Indian subcontinent, the country's meteorological department has issued multiple rain alerts. States including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Haryana in the north, Odisha in the east, and the western belt of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa continue being pummeled by non-stop rainfall.

Indian state of Gujarat on orange alert after floods

<p>It was the year 1960. India had&nbsp;been free of British Raj for 13 years now.&nbsp;Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle. Ameen Sayani, the star voice of All India Radio, could be heard in every house, corner shop and street. Radio was not just immensely popular but had become a quintessential way of life for Indians.<br />
<br />
A few years back, the citizens of the country&nbsp;gathered&nbsp;at&nbsp;every nook&nbsp;and cranny&nbsp;to listen to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru as he delivered&nbsp;his historic Tryst With Destiny speech, only to concur with him 'At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.'<br />
<br />
Although it was the dawn of an independent India, radio was in its golden era – brimming with shows, plays and music – after playing a significant role in relaying the news and important messages at a time when the world was at war with itself and India burned under the British dominance.</p>

<h2><strong>Radio in war times</strong></h2>

<p>In its initial years, radio emerged as an important tool to communicate the developments of the battlefield amid waging wars. It found its commercial base just after World War I and the first radio stations in the world were set up in the 1940s.<br />
<br />
In India, the first commercial transmission of radio was sent out by the Radio Club of Bombay in 1923. The Calcutta Radio Club started the same year and a year after Madras got its radio broadcasts with the Madras Presidency Radio Club.</p>

<p>The radio saw fascination and excitement reach its peak around the new technology.&nbsp;However, radio programming gained stability after the government stepped into the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) in 1930 and started its operations on an experimental basis. On June 8, 1936, ISBS finally became what is known today as All India Radio (AIR).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/in-a-transitioning-world-order-what-are-indias-chances-617734">In a transitioning world order, what are India's chances?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Radio as a tool for war and propaganda</strong></h2>

<p>In 1936, the first daily news bulletin was introduced. But the need of expanding it to a national network and external service grew during World War II. Radio was being used for Nazi propaganda and there was a sudden need to counter it. Hence, the practice of broadcasting all news bulletins from one central newsroom started. Around 27 bulletins were being broadcasted every day during the war years.<br />
<br />
In this chaotic environment and with All India Radio emerging as a propaganda machine for British imperialism, Congress freedom fighters were left with no choice but to start their short-lived underground 'Congress Radio' which was broadcasted from an unknown location in Bombay at a depth of 41.78 metres.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, Subhas&nbsp;Chandra Bose spearheaded his own radio service “Azad Hind Radio” as part of Germany’s radio service. This German-funded radio first aired on 7 January 1942 and was aimed at showing solidarity with Indians living abroad. Radio, thus, became a tool for warring nations, rebellious leaders and propagandists.</p>

<h2><strong>Age of Akashvani</strong></h2>

<p>AIR adopted the name Akashvani in 1956. The name, which was derived from the title of Rabindranath Tagore's composition, was used interchangeably with All India Radio, only to become an exclusive name on 3 May 2023. The Akashvani jingle evokes a lot of memories for many Indians whose childhood and youth were filled with these tunes.<br />
<br />
Czech Republic's Walter Kaufmann, who had come to India after fleeing Nazi persecution, had composed the jingle. Today, AIR has a network of more than 262 radio stations and is available in 92 per cent of the country, reaching almost all its population. It has been broadcast in 23 languages and 146 dialects to cater to the diverse demographics of India.<br />
<br />
Explaining its vast outreach while speaking to WION, AIR Additional Director General Dr Atul Kumar Tiwary said, “AIR continues to maintain its hold among its traditional base of citizens who have grown up listening to the news and programs in a simple, listener-friendly format. Its USP is ABC of the basics of broadcast - Authenticity, Brevity and Clarity. AIR has coverage of 92 per cent of the area and 95 per cent of the population across the country. It is broadcast in 23 Indian languages which are in the eighth schedule of the constitution, 179 dialects and 11 foreign languages.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong</strong></p>

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<p>“In the small cities, the tribal, remote and hilly terrains, still it is the most effective means of keeping one informed, educated and entertained and that too in the local language. It's affordable and acceptable among the community as a group means of awareness which adds value to its utility. Can you imagine a private player broadcasting in Arunachal Pradesh or the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand or the deserts of Jaisalmer or the ravines of Chambal or Port Blair? Well, the maths is simple,” he added.<br />
<br />
Since its advent, radio remained a compulsory medium for the consumption of news, cricket or entertainment and made it possible for historic announcements like Nehru's independence speech or Indira Gandhi's Emergency Declaration, or celebratory moments like Kapil Dev’s 175-run knock in the 1983 World Cup&nbsp;to reach the masses.&nbsp;</p>

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It was the year 1960. India had been free of British Raj for 13 years now. Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle.

It was the year 1960. India had been free of British Raj for 13 years now. Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle. Ameen Sayani, the star voice of All India Radio, could be heard in every house, corner shop and street. Radio was not just immensely popular but had become a quintessential way of life for Indians. A few years back, the citizens of the country gathered at every nook and cranny to listen to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru as he delivered his historic Tryst With Destiny speech, only to concur with him 'At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.' Although it was the dawn of an independent India, radio was in its golden era – brimming with shows, plays and music – after playing a significant role in relaying the news and important messages at a time when the world was at war with itself and India burned under the British dominance. Radio in war times In its initial years, radio emerged as an important tool to communicate the developments of the battlefield amid waging wars. It found its commercial base just after World War I and the first radio stations in the world were set up in the 1940s. In India, the first commercial transmission of radio was sent out by the Radio Club of Bombay in 1923. The Calcutta Radio Club started the same year and a year after Madras got its radio broadcasts with the Madras Presidency Radio Club. The radio saw fascination and excitement reach its peak around the new technology. However, radio programming gained stability after the government stepped into the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) in 1930 and started its operations on an experimental basis. On June 8, 1936, ISBS finally became what is known today as All India Radio (AIR). ALSO READ | In a transitioning world order, what are India's chances? Radio as a tool for war and propaganda In 1936, the first daily news bulletin was introduced. But the need of expanding it to a national network and external service grew during World War II. Radio was being used for Nazi propaganda and there was a sudden need to counter it. Hence, the practice of broadcasting all news bulletins from one central newsroom started. Around 27 bulletins were being broadcasted every day during the war years. In this chaotic environment and with All India Radio emerging as a propaganda machine for British imperialism, Congress freedom fighters were left with no choice but to start their short-lived underground 'Congress Radio' which was broadcasted from an unknown location in Bombay at a depth of 41.78 metres. On the other hand, Subhas Chandra Bose spearheaded his own radio service “Azad Hind Radio” as part of Germany’s radio service. This German-funded radio first aired on 7 January 1942 and was aimed at showing solidarity with Indians living abroad. Radio, thus, became a tool for warring nations, rebellious leaders and propagandists. Age of Akashvani AIR adopted the name Akashvani in 1956. The name, which was derived from the title of Rabindranath Tagore's composition, was used interchangeably with All India Radio, only to become an exclusive name on 3 May 2023. The Akashvani jingle evokes a lot of memories for many Indians whose childhood and youth were filled with these tunes. Czech Republic's Walter Kaufmann, who had come to India after fleeing Nazi persecution, had composed the jingle. Today, AIR has a network of more than 262 radio stations and is available in 92 per cent of the country, reaching almost all its population. It has been broadcast in 23 languages and 146 dialects to cater to the diverse demographics of India. Explaining its vast outreach while speaking to WION, AIR Additional Director General Dr Atul Kumar Tiwary said, “AIR continues to maintain its hold among its traditional base of citizens who have grown up listening to the news and programs in a simple, listener-friendly format. Its USP is ABC of the basics of broadcast - Authenticity, Brevity and Clarity. AIR has coverage of 92 per cent of the area and 95 per cent of the population across the country. It is broadcast in 23 Indian languages which are in the eighth schedule of the constitution, 179 dialects and 11 foreign languages.” WATCH | Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong “In the small cities, the tribal, remote and hilly terrains, still it is the most effective means of keeping one informed, educated and entertained and that too in the local language. It's affordable and acceptable among the community as a group means of awareness which adds value to its utility. Can you imagine a private player broadcasting in Arunachal Pradesh or the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand or the deserts of Jaisalmer or the ravines of Chambal or Port Blair? Well, the maths is simple,” he added. Since its advent, radio remained a compulsory medium for the consumption of news, cricket or entertainment and made it possible for historic announcements like Nehru's independence speech or Indira Gandhi's Emergency Declaration, or celebratory moments like Kapil Dev’s 175-run knock in the 1983 World Cup to reach the masses. 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

Explained: Tracing the journey of radio from colonial British Raj to independent and multi-lingual India

Days after a horrifying video showing two women being paraded in public naked by dozens of men surfaced, a sixth arrest has been made in the Indian state of Manipur.

Manipur Violence: Sixth accused arrested in viral video case showing two women being paraded naked

<p>An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats&nbsp;of elephants in&nbsp;Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as <em>Ludwigia peruviana</em>, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months.</p>

<p>According to a report in <em>The Hindu</em>, the state forest department clarified that most of these swamps are situated in private estates where they were purportedly sown for ornamental purposes.&nbsp;Incorrect removal attempts could inadvertently facilitate its spread even further.</p>

<p>The weed's invasion has limited the growth of native grasses and plants that elephants and other animals, like gaur, rely on for sustenance.</p>

<h2><strong>Where exactly is weed invasion affecting habitat of elephants?</strong></h2>

<p>The invasion is reportedly more intense in Valparai, within the Annamalai Tiger Reserve. The area serves as crucial habitat for elephants that migrate between Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tourists-flock-to-elephant-camp-in-tamil-nadu-as-the-elephant-whisperers-wins-an-oscar-571824">Tourists flock to elephant camp in Tamil Nadu as The Elephant Whisperers wins an Oscar</a></strong></p>

<p>Until the recent past, the region was known for human-elephant conflicts. But the vigilance of forest departments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states has been largely effective in preventing such conflicts.</p>

<p>The last human death due to an elephant attack occurred over two years ago on June 4, 2021, according to The Hindu newspaper.</p>

<h2><strong>What are swamps?</strong></h2>

<p>Swamps are vital habitats that support various wildlife, including amphibians and otters, in addition to large herbivorous animals.</p>

<p>They act as important water storage areas that require preservation. However, the invasion of swamps by Ludwigia disrupts the natural ecosystem, leading to wild animals' migration to other regions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch| Foreign vets rush to Pakistan to save an ailing elephant | Inside South Asia</strong></p>

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<p><em>Ludwigia</em> is among the 22 priority invasive plants in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The focus of the state's removal efforts is primarily on other invasive species such as<em> Lantana camara, Senna spectabilis,</em> and <em>Acacia mearnsii</em> (wattle) while removal of&nbsp;<em>Ludwigia&nbsp;</em>is emerging as the responsibility of private estate owners under a law to protect forests in the state.</p>

<p>The elimination of&nbsp;<em>Ludwigia </em>presents a unique challenge compared to other invasive plants because it grows in swamps, limiting the use of machinery to tackle the problem without damaging the ecosystem further. Even manual removal is tricky as the plant breaks easily, and new growth can emerge from the root or broken stems that fall back into the swamp.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats of elephants in Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as Ludwigia peruviana, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months.

An aquatic weed with origins in Central and South American countries is posing a threat to the habitats of elephants in Tamil Nadu state in southern India. This weed, known as Ludwigia peruviana, has rapidly infested the majority of swamps in the area, where elephants previously used to find edible grass even during dry months. According to a report in The Hindu, the state forest department clarified that most of these swamps are situated in private estates where they were purportedly sown for ornamental purposes. Incorrect removal attempts could inadvertently facilitate its spread even further. The weed's invasion has limited the growth of native grasses and plants that elephants and other animals, like gaur, rely on for sustenance. Where exactly is weed invasion affecting habitat of elephants? The invasion is reportedly more intense in Valparai, within the Annamalai Tiger Reserve. The area serves as crucial habitat for elephants that migrate between Tamil Nadu and Kerala states. Also read | Tourists flock to elephant camp in Tamil Nadu as The Elephant Whisperers wins an Oscar Until the recent past, the region was known for human-elephant conflicts. But the vigilance of forest departments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states has been largely effective in preventing such conflicts. The last human death due to an elephant attack occurred over two years ago on June 4, 2021, according to The Hindu newspaper. What are swamps? Swamps are vital habitats that support various wildlife, including amphibians and otters, in addition to large herbivorous animals. They act as important water storage areas that require preservation. However, the invasion of swamps by Ludwigia disrupts the natural ecosystem, leading to wild animals' migration to other regions. Also watch| Foreign vets rush to Pakistan to save an ailing elephant | Inside South Asia × Ludwigia is among the 22 priority invasive plants in Tamil Nadu. The focus of the state's removal efforts is primarily on other invasive species such as Lantana camara, Senna spectabilis, and Acacia mearnsii (wattle) while removal of Ludwigia is emerging as the responsibility of private estate owners under a law to protect forests in the state. The elimination of Ludwigia presents a unique challenge compared to other invasive plants because it grows in swamps, limiting the use of machinery to tackle the problem without damaging the ecosystem further. Even manual removal is tricky as the plant breaks easily, and new growth can emerge from the root or broken stems that fall back into the swamp. 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.

South American weed gives Indian elephants a run for their habitat

<p>A shocking incident has come to light in India's southern city of Bengaluru where a bike taxi&nbsp;driver masturbated and sexually harassed a woman passenger. The woman, named Athira, took to Twitter to share her ordeal where she revealed how the&nbsp;driver chased her, even after the ride was completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman said she had gone to take part in a protest at Town Hall where people had gathered to show solidarity with the survivors of violence in Manipur. To return home, she booked a bike taxi on the Rapido app. However, the driver arrived on a bike&nbsp;different to the one registered and shown in the app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Surprisingly, the driver arrived on a different bike, explaining that the one registered with @rapidobikeapp was under servicing. I confirmed my booking through his app and proceeded with the ride."</p>

<p>Midway through the journey, the driver started riding the vehicle with one hand while masturbating with the other. The woman said she did not protest, fearing for her safety as they were in a remote area with no other vehicles around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“During the journey, we reached a remote area with no other vehicles around. Shockingly, the driver began riding with one hand and engaging in inappropriate behavior (Masturbating while riding the bike). Fearing for my safety, I remained silent throughout the ordeal,” she wrote.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-horror-five-arrests-in-three-days-after-anger-grows-over-sexual-assault-video-india-618440"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Manipur Horror: Five arrests in three days after anger grows over sexual assault video | India</strong></a></p>

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<p>To avoid being chased by the driver, she asked him to drop her 200 metres before the actual destination. However, what should have been the end of the ordeal only escalated further as the driver started calling and texting her on WhatsApp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one of the screenshots shared, the driver could be seen professing his one-sided love, despite the obvious reluctance from the woman. After Athira's tweet went viral, the official handle of Bengaluru police responded to the allegations and asked for the user’s contact details.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thread 🧵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SexualHarassement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SexualHarassement</a><br />
Today, I went for the Manipur Violence protest at Town Hall Bangalore and booked a <a href="https://twitter.com/rapidobikeapp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rapidobikeapp</a> auto for my way back home. However, multiple auto cancellations led me to opt for a bike instead. <a href="https://t.co/bQkw4i7NvO">pic.twitter.com/bQkw4i7NvO</a></p>
— Athira Purushothaman (@Aadhi_02) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aadhi_02/status/1682405662511472642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-shocking-bengaluru-woman-jumps-off-moving-rapido-bike-after-driver-gropes-her-video-surfaces-586353"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Shocking! Bengaluru woman jumps off moving Rapido bike after driver gropes her; video surfaces</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Police arrest the driver</strong></h2>

<p>In a tweet, the city police wrote, “We have informed to@sjparkps to take necessary action in this regard, Please DM your contact number.”</p>

<p>Athira informed on Saturday (July 22)&nbsp;that she had filed a complaint with the police and the driver had been arrested. She added that it was not an isolated incident with Rapido.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is not an isolated incident with @rapidobikeapp , and I'm determined to pursue legal action against the driver and demand an investigation into Rapidos' safety measures," she said.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, a 30-year-old woman jumped off a moving Rapido after the driver attempted to grope her.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A shocking incident has come to light in India's southern city of Bengaluru where a bike taxi driver masturbated and sexually harassed a woman passenger. The woman, named Athira, took to Twitter to share her ordeal where she revealed how the driver chased her, even after the ride was completed.

A shocking incident has come to light in India's southern city of Bengaluru where a bike taxi driver masturbated and sexually harassed a woman passenger. The woman, named Athira, took to Twitter to share her ordeal where she revealed how the driver chased her, even after the ride was completed. The woman said she had gone to take part in a protest at Town Hall where people had gathered to show solidarity with the survivors of violence in Manipur. To return home, she booked a bike taxi on the Rapido app. However, the driver arrived on a bike different to the one registered and shown in the app. "Surprisingly, the driver arrived on a different bike, explaining that the one registered with @rapidobikeapp was under servicing. I confirmed my booking through his app and proceeded with the ride." Midway through the journey, the driver started riding the vehicle with one hand while masturbating with the other. The woman said she did not protest, fearing for her safety as they were in a remote area with no other vehicles around. “During the journey, we reached a remote area with no other vehicles around. Shockingly, the driver began riding with one hand and engaging in inappropriate behavior (Masturbating while riding the bike). Fearing for my safety, I remained silent throughout the ordeal,” she wrote. Watch | Manipur Horror: Five arrests in three days after anger grows over sexual assault video | India × To avoid being chased by the driver, she asked him to drop her 200 metres before the actual destination. However, what should have been the end of the ordeal only escalated further as the driver started calling and texting her on WhatsApp. In one of the screenshots shared, the driver could be seen professing his one-sided love, despite the obvious reluctance from the woman. After Athira's tweet went viral, the official handle of Bengaluru police responded to the allegations and asked for the user’s contact details. Thread 🧵#SexualHarassement Today, I went for the Manipur Violence protest at Town Hall Bangalore and booked a @rapidobikeapp auto for my way back home. However, multiple auto cancellations led me to opt for a bike instead. pic.twitter.com/bQkw4i7NvO — Athira Purushothaman (@Aadhi_02) July 21, 2023 × Also read | India: Shocking! Bengaluru woman jumps off moving Rapido bike after driver gropes her; video surfaces Police arrest the driver In a tweet, the city police wrote, “We have informed to@sjparkps to take necessary action in this regard, Please DM your contact number.” Athira informed on Saturday (July 22) that she had filed a complaint with the police and the driver had been arrested. She added that it was not an isolated incident with Rapido. "This is not an isolated incident with @rapidobikeapp , and I'm determined to pursue legal action against the driver and demand an investigation into Rapidos' safety measures," she said. Earlier this year, a 30-year-old woman jumped off a moving Rapido after the driver attempted to grope her. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Bike taxi driver masturbates mid-ride, sexually harasses woman over texts

According to revelations made by the cybercrime unit of Hyderabad police in the southern Indian state of Telangana, con artists defrauded thousands of people throughout India for more than a year on the pretence of an investment or part-time work.

India: Nine arrested from across the country over investment fraud

According to accounts, the turmoil that followed the release of a film showing two women being stripped and sexually assaulted in Manipur has caused confusion and terror in the state next door. Members of the Methi community who were living in Mizoram are reportedly fleeing and migrating somewhere where they may feel more safe.

Manipur strife spreads to neighbouring states

Now, three days after a horrifying video showing two women being paraded in public naked by dozens of men surfaced, a fifth arrest has been made in the Indian state of Manipur.

India: Fifth arrest made in Manipur Shocker as anger grows over horrific incident

India, the world’s biggest rice exporter, banned shipments of non-basmati white rice to maintain domestic prices at comfortable levels ahead of the general election due in early 2024.

India bans non-basmati white rice exports to check local prices

Manipur Horror: Five arrests in three days after anger grows over sexual assault video | India

India is building a new road that will allow devotees to trek to Mount Kailash from Indian territory. Up until now, pilgrims had to travel to Tibet to start their journey. It is a big win for Hindus and Buddhists in India. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: India's new road to Mount Kailash

India has made remarkable progress in its fight against multidimensional poverty, according to the latest report released by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog). The report, titled 'National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023', reveals that an unprecedented 13.5 crore people moved out of multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21. This achievement places India well ahead of its 2030 target for reducing poverty under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Take a look.

Mission Possible: India's multidimensional poverty plummets ahead of schedule

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