The Iranian Navy Commander declared the plan to join a naval Alliance during a televised program, albeit the specifics of the alliance are unknown. Iran is reportedly in talks with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, and Qatar as well as on the formation of a naval alliance. India and Pakistan will also be part of the alliance.

Iran floats new regional naval alliance in West Asia

Iran: New naval alliance will include India & Pakistan

India's import of cheap Russian oil reached a new high, according to a data by Energy Cargo Tracker - India took 1.96 million barrels per day in May from Russia - in May 15% more than the previous high that was recorded back in April.

India guzzles Russian crude: India's imports of Russian oil hits new high

As India grieves its worst train disaster in 28 years condolences have been pouring in from different parts of the world. At least 294 people were killed and over 1000 injured in an accident on Friday, June 2, after an accident involving three trains. The horrific accident happened when the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express, headed toward Chennai, derailed. It collided with a goods train on the adjacent track, causing the rear carriage of the Coromandel Express to veer off onto the third track. The Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, coming from the opposite direction on the third track, rammed into the derailed coaches.

Odisha train tragedy | Indian Railways: 129 trains cancelled, 81 trains diverted

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin on enhancing India-US defence ties, regional security and other issues. Lloyd Austin arrived in New Delhi on Sunday on a two-day tour.

Lloyd Austin India Visit: Agreement on new roadmap for India-US industrial cooperation

Lloyd Austin meets Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval

<p dir="ltr">Sweltering heat has taken a toll on people's lives in several parts of India. As temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius in recent weeks, people not only suffered the outwardly wrath of heat, but were bogged down by the unprecedented stress it levied on India’s agriculture, public health, and economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is one of the nations most exposed and susceptible to heat. <a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000156">Studies</a> suggest that the frequency of hot days and nights&nbsp;have risen significantly, and are estimated to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Additionally, heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, last longer and occur more frequently.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Which strata of society is most affected?</strong></h2>

<p>Those working outdoors as daily-wage labourers are the worst hit during a heatwave episode. They mostly lack access to cooling amenities like fans and air conditioners and must continue working in the blistering heat to make ends meet.</p>

<p>“Heatwaves in India pose significant risks to human health as certain strata of society are more affected due to their socioeconomic and health conditions,” Shivang Agarwal, PhD scholar in environmental health and engineering, Johns Hopkins University told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India has made progress in dealing with heatwaves, particularly in the development of heatwave prediction and early warning systems. However, many challenges remain, including lack of awareness about heatwave risks, limited access to affordable cooling solutions, strained public health infrastructure, and urban planning that often neglects heat resilience. There is a need for continued efforts in public awareness on these issues, to increase India's resilience to heatwaves,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India saw a 55 per cent rise in deaths due to extreme heat between 2000-2004 and 2017-2019, according to a <a href="http://www.thelancet-press.com/embargo/Countdown2022.pdf">Lancet’s report</a> released last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country has recorded more than 17,000 deaths due to heat waves in the past 50 years, according to a 2021 research by one of the best meteorologists, reported the PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe aria-label="Interactive area chart" data-external="1" frameborder="0" height="562" id="datawrapper-chart-aBKhb" scrolling="no" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aBKhb/1/" style="border: none;" title="Spike in heatwave days in 2022" width="600"></iframe></div>
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<p dir="ltr"><em><strong>*This is an interactive data chart. Hover over the chart to get the figures*</strong></em></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Climate change impacting heat?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Extreme heat which engulfed large parts of India and Pakistan was rendered 30 times more likely by climate change, according to a new rapid attribution <a href="https://www.worldweatherattribution.org/climate-change-made-devastating-early-heat-in-india-and-pakistan-30-times-more-likely/">study</a> by climate scientists.</p>

<p>“India is experiencing the impact of climate change. Due to its geographic diversity and large population exposure to climatic stressors, India is susceptible to all types of natural and climatic hazards. According to projections of climate change for India, more intense climatic conditions with significant variability are anticipated,” Prasoon Singh, Fellow and Area Convenor, Climate Change Division, The Energy Resource Institute (TERI) told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker |&nbsp;Heat made worse by climate change</strong></p>

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<p>The Global Climate Risk Index 2021 had ranked India seventh in the list of most affected countries in terms of exposure and vulnerability to climate risk events.</p>

<p>“A 2&nbsp;degrees Celsius&nbsp;increase in global average temperatures will render India's summer monsoon extremely unpredictable. At a temperature increase of 4&nbsp;degrees Celsius, a monsoon that presently has a one-in-a-century chance of occurring is projected to occur every 10 years by the end of the century,” Singh explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A sudden change in the monsoon could precipitate a major crisis, resulting in more frequent droughts and intensified inundation across large portions of India. On the other hand, it is anticipated that droughts will become more frequent in certain regions, particularly in north-western India,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-gasping-for-breath-what-is-india-doing-about-its-air-pollution-crisis-598066">Data Lab | Gasping for breath: What is India doing about its air pollution crisis?</a></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Burden of heatwave</strong></h2>

<p>Continuing trends of&nbsp; heatwave&nbsp;due to climate change may have profound long-term effects. These include severe health risks like heatstroke, strain on healthcare systems, exacerbated cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and increased mortality rates. Agriculture and food security could be threatened due to crop damage, and water scarcity may become a greater issue, noted&nbsp;Agarwal, while stressing on the need to implement heat action plans for timely response to extreme heat, and utilise early warning systems for accurate forecasts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the current warming trends continue, it would unleash a barrage of difficulties that would include a major water crisis, energy scarcity, power outage, productivity loss, supply chain disruption, economic losses,&nbsp;human and livestock deaths, and serious health problems within vulnerable communities.</p>

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Sweltering heat has taken a toll on people's lives in several parts of India. As temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius in recent weeks, people not only suffered the outwardly wrath of heat, but were bogged down by the unprecedented stress it levied on India’s agriculture, public health, and economy.

Sweltering heat has taken a toll on people's lives in several parts of India. As temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius in recent weeks, people not only suffered the outwardly wrath of heat, but were bogged down by the unprecedented stress it levied on India’s agriculture, public health, and economy. India is one of the nations most exposed and susceptible to heat. Studies suggest that the frequency of hot days and nights have risen significantly, and are estimated to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Additionally, heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, last longer and occur more frequently. Which strata of society is most affected? Those working outdoors as daily-wage labourers are the worst hit during a heatwave episode. They mostly lack access to cooling amenities like fans and air conditioners and must continue working in the blistering heat to make ends meet. “Heatwaves in India pose significant risks to human health as certain strata of society are more affected due to their socioeconomic and health conditions,” Shivang Agarwal, PhD scholar in environmental health and engineering, Johns Hopkins University told WION. “India has made progress in dealing with heatwaves, particularly in the development of heatwave prediction and early warning systems. However, many challenges remain, including lack of awareness about heatwave risks, limited access to affordable cooling solutions, strained public health infrastructure, and urban planning that often neglects heat resilience. There is a need for continued efforts in public awareness on these issues, to increase India's resilience to heatwaves,” he said. India saw a 55 per cent rise in deaths due to extreme heat between 2000-2004 and 2017-2019, according to a Lancet’s report released last year. The country has recorded more than 17,000 deaths due to heat waves in the past 50 years, according to a 2021 research by one of the best meteorologists, reported the PTI. × *This is an interactive data chart. Hover over the chart to get the figures* Climate change impacting heat? Extreme heat which engulfed large parts of India and Pakistan was rendered 30 times more likely by climate change, according to a new rapid attribution study by climate scientists. “India is experiencing the impact of climate change. Due to its geographic diversity and large population exposure to climatic stressors, India is susceptible to all types of natural and climatic hazards. According to projections of climate change for India, more intense climatic conditions with significant variability are anticipated,” Prasoon Singh, Fellow and Area Convenor, Climate Change Division, The Energy Resource Institute (TERI) told WION. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker | Heat made worse by climate change The Global Climate Risk Index 2021 had ranked India seventh in the list of most affected countries in terms of exposure and vulnerability to climate risk events. “A 2 degrees Celsius increase in global average temperatures will render India's summer monsoon extremely unpredictable. At a temperature increase of 4 degrees Celsius, a monsoon that presently has a one-in-a-century chance of occurring is projected to occur every 10 years by the end of the century,” Singh explained. “A sudden change in the monsoon could precipitate a major crisis, resulting in more frequent droughts and intensified inundation across large portions of India. On the other hand, it is anticipated that droughts will become more frequent in certain regions, particularly in north-western India,” he added. Also read | Data Lab | Gasping for breath: What is India doing about its air pollution crisis? Burden of heatwave Continuing trends of heatwave due to climate change may have profound long-term effects. These include severe health risks like heatstroke, strain on healthcare systems, exacerbated cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and increased mortality rates. Agriculture and food security could be threatened due to crop damage, and water scarcity may become a greater issue, noted Agarwal, while stressing on the need to implement heat action plans for timely response to extreme heat, and utilise early warning systems for accurate forecasts. If the current warming trends continue, it would unleash a barrage of difficulties that would include a major water crisis, energy scarcity, power outage, productivity loss, supply chain disruption, economic losses, human and livestock deaths, and serious health problems within vulnerable communities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues?

<p>India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or&nbsp;around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A target of June 2024 has been set by the national capital to bridge this gap completely.&nbsp;Experts stated that&nbsp;officials may have to work much harder, especially considering that it was not able to implement the ban on 19 single-use plastic (SUP) items successfully.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Municipal bodies shared data during their meeting held with the high-level solid waste monitoring committee, as per which the current plastic waste generation figure of the national capital stood at 1,113.25 TPD, and only 871.25 TPD is being processed, leaving a gap of 242 TPD which needs immediate attention.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-coolest-may-in-36-years-copious-rains-lower-average-maximum-temperature-to-368degc-599302">Delhi's coolest May in 36 years: Copious rains lower average maximum temperature to 36.8°C</a></p>

<p>The committee was appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and is headed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Programme director of the municipal solid waste sector at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Atin Biswas said that waste segregation is the base for any city which is aiming to find a solution to its waste problem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At present, even this figure of 78 per cent&nbsp;of plastic being recycled seems fairly high, as Delhi is not segregating its waste like other cities. Only when that is being done, can waste be effectively separated. Until we achieve segregation at source, this target of June 2024 appears highly unlikely,” Biswas stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Capital's unfulfilled single-use plastic (SUP) goals</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the national capital is lagging behind its single-use plastic (SUP) goals. In Delhi, as well as other states and union territories, 19 SUP items were banned from July 1, 2022, onwards, according to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2021 which was issued on August 12, 2021.</p>

<p>Even though a ban was imposed, several items mentioned in the list are still commonly found in the markets of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Price difference substantial</strong></h2>

<p>Fruit juice Bhiku Ram is still using plastic straws and plastic spoons at his shop. He said that he tried to use the alternatives, however, the price difference remained substantial. “Plastic is still easily available and agencies also are not too keen on enforcing such a ban,” Ram stated.</p>

<p>NGO Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA) founder and director Ashish Jain said, “Agencies are finally beginning to act on plastic pollution, but it still needs a change in the mindset of consumers too. For instance, plastic items like plastic furniture have several alternatives, but plastic ones still exist in the market. We need to stop giving consumers such options.”</p>

<h2><strong>Plans to clear three dumpsites of capital</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the government of Delhi had earlier announced the ambitious project of clearing all three dumpsites in the national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per their set goals, the Okhla dumpsite should be cleared by December 2023, Bhalswa by March 2024 and Ghazipur by December 2024. Cumulatively, the three dumpsites are covering an area of 200 acres, which carries around 28 million tonnes of legacy waste.&nbsp;</p>

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India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data.

India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data. A target of June 2024 has been set by the national capital to bridge this gap completely. Experts stated that officials may have to work much harder, especially considering that it was not able to implement the ban on 19 single-use plastic (SUP) items successfully. Municipal bodies shared data during their meeting held with the high-level solid waste monitoring committee, as per which the current plastic waste generation figure of the national capital stood at 1,113.25 TPD, and only 871.25 TPD is being processed, leaving a gap of 242 TPD which needs immediate attention. ALSO READ | Delhi's coolest May in 36 years: Copious rains lower average maximum temperature to 36.8°C The committee was appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and is headed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. Programme director of the municipal solid waste sector at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Atin Biswas said that waste segregation is the base for any city which is aiming to find a solution to its waste problem. “At present, even this figure of 78 per cent of plastic being recycled seems fairly high, as Delhi is not segregating its waste like other cities. Only when that is being done, can waste be effectively separated. Until we achieve segregation at source, this target of June 2024 appears highly unlikely,” Biswas stated. Capital's unfulfilled single-use plastic (SUP) goals Meanwhile, the national capital is lagging behind its single-use plastic (SUP) goals. In Delhi, as well as other states and union territories, 19 SUP items were banned from July 1, 2022, onwards, according to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2021 which was issued on August 12, 2021. Even though a ban was imposed, several items mentioned in the list are still commonly found in the markets of the city. WATCH | Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker Price difference substantial Fruit juice Bhiku Ram is still using plastic straws and plastic spoons at his shop. He said that he tried to use the alternatives, however, the price difference remained substantial. “Plastic is still easily available and agencies also are not too keen on enforcing such a ban,” Ram stated. NGO Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA) founder and director Ashish Jain said, “Agencies are finally beginning to act on plastic pollution, but it still needs a change in the mindset of consumers too. For instance, plastic items like plastic furniture have several alternatives, but plastic ones still exist in the market. We need to stop giving consumers such options.” Plans to clear three dumpsites of capital Meanwhile, the government of Delhi had earlier announced the ambitious project of clearing all three dumpsites in the national capital. As per their set goals, the Okhla dumpsite should be cleared by December 2023, Bhalswa by March 2024 and Ghazipur by December 2024. Cumulatively, the three dumpsites are covering an area of 200 acres, which carries around 28 million tonnes of legacy waste. 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

Around 240 tonnes of plastic waste gets dumped in India's national capital every day, says report

In Pics | Indian environmentalists who brought change in society

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: All eyes on - Lloyd Austin's diplomatic trip to India - he is currently on a two-day visit to India - to discuss a range of bilateral issues with India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The whole world is watching his arrival in India.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in India

India's Rajnath Singh holds talks with US counterpart Lloyd Austin in New Delhi

<p>The Indian drug controller is currently investigating a pharmaceutical company based in Gujarat after receiving reports from Sri Lanka that a steroid eye drop manufactured by the firm has been associated with adverse events, including cases of vision loss. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government has recalled the medicine, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) has issued a notice to the company, requesting information regarding the importer, recipients of the drug, and details about the manufacturing license and product permissions.</p>

<p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/breast-cancer-drug-slashes-risk-of-recurrence-by-25-a-game-changer-in-fight-against-the-disease-600156">Breast cancer drug slashes risk of recurrence by 25 pc, a game-changer in fight against the disease</a></p>

<p>The company, Indiana Ophthalmics from Wadhwan-Gujarat, has been urged to investigate the cause of the alleged product contamination and provide their findings to take appropriate action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Failure to submit the requested information by June 3, 2023, could result in the suspension of the company's Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), Pharmexcil said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-in-talks-to-introduce-prime-wireless-slashing-cell-phone-bills-to-10-or-even-free-600134">Amazon in talks to introduce 'Prime wireless', slashing cell phone bills to $10 or even free</a></p>

<p>An RCMC is required by companies to export drugs, and if the necessary information is provided, Pharmexcil will await the investigation findings before taking further action.</p>

<h2><strong>Eye drop given to&nbsp;cataract patients post-surgery&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, the prednisolone eye drop in question was administered to patients in Sri Lanka who had undergone cataract surgery.&nbsp;The eye drop has been linked to "eye infections in over 30 individuals," as mentioned in the Pharmexcil notice.</p>

<h2><strong>Earlier cases of Indian-manufactured eye drop</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance of contamination involving an eye drop manufactured in India. Earlier this year, the US was investigating the EzriCare Artificial Tears, an over-the-counter eye drop produced by Global Pharma Healthcare in Chennai, India. The investigation centred around a widespread outbreak of a highly resistant strain of bacteria that has been associated with different types of infections, including those affecting the eyes.</p>

<p>The US reported an outbreak of highly antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections linked to the Indian-manufactured eye drop. The outbreak reportedly resulted in 68 cases of infection across 16 states, causing three deaths, eight cases of vision loss, and four cases of eyeball removal.</p>

<p>The company voluntarily recalled the eye drops in February.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian-manufactured ophthalmic ointment&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In another incident, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert regarding an Indian-manufactured ophthalmic ointment in February, citing quality issues such as the presence of particles in various colours, sizes, and shapes of the nozzle, cap, and inside tubes.</p>

<p>The ointment is given as a treatment to infants and older children and is also indicated as a preventive measure for infants. As per WHO, the affected ointment is supplied in bulk and as a component of various medical kits supplied by some international organisations providing humanitarian assistance. At least 55 countries received the affected batches, as per the global health agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, black spots and brown splotches were found on the inner foil layer of the tubes. However, the WHO clarified that no adverse events were associated with the ointment. "Redness and swollen eyes are common reactions to the general use of tetracycline eye ointment. There is currently no indication that the above-mentioned quality issues may give rise to adverse events that are not listed in the product labelling," WHO had said. The manufacturer initiated a voluntary recall of several batches.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian-manufactured syrups</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Apart from eye drops, the WHO has also highlighted three instances of diethylene or ethylene glycol contamination in Indian-manufactured syrups since October last year. These syrups have been linked to 70 deaths in Gambia and 18 deaths in Uzbekistan.</p>

<p>Furthermore, a case of contamination was detected in the Marshall Islands and Micronesia, despite the manufacturer claiming that the syrups were never sold to these countries.</p>

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The Indian drug controller is currently investigating a pharmaceutical company based in Gujarat after receiving reports from Sri Lanka that a steroid eye drop manufactured by the firm has been associated with adverse events, including cases of vision loss.

The Indian drug controller is currently investigating a pharmaceutical company based in Gujarat after receiving reports from Sri Lanka that a steroid eye drop manufactured by the firm has been associated with adverse events, including cases of vision loss. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government has recalled the medicine, as per media reports. The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) has issued a notice to the company, requesting information regarding the importer, recipients of the drug, and details about the manufacturing license and product permissions. Also read | Breast cancer drug slashes risk of recurrence by 25 pc, a game-changer in fight against the disease The company, Indiana Ophthalmics from Wadhwan-Gujarat, has been urged to investigate the cause of the alleged product contamination and provide their findings to take appropriate action. Failure to submit the requested information by June 3, 2023, could result in the suspension of the company's Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC), Pharmexcil said. Also Read | Amazon in talks to introduce 'Prime wireless', slashing cell phone bills to $10 or even free An RCMC is required by companies to export drugs, and if the necessary information is provided, Pharmexcil will await the investigation findings before taking further action. Eye drop given to cataract patients post-surgery According to reports, the prednisolone eye drop in question was administered to patients in Sri Lanka who had undergone cataract surgery. The eye drop has been linked to "eye infections in over 30 individuals," as mentioned in the Pharmexcil notice. Earlier cases of Indian-manufactured eye drop This is not the first instance of contamination involving an eye drop manufactured in India. Earlier this year, the US was investigating the EzriCare Artificial Tears, an over-the-counter eye drop produced by Global Pharma Healthcare in Chennai, India. The investigation centred around a widespread outbreak of a highly resistant strain of bacteria that has been associated with different types of infections, including those affecting the eyes. The US reported an outbreak of highly antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections linked to the Indian-manufactured eye drop. The outbreak reportedly resulted in 68 cases of infection across 16 states, causing three deaths, eight cases of vision loss, and four cases of eyeball removal. The company voluntarily recalled the eye drops in February. Indian-manufactured ophthalmic ointment In another incident, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert regarding an Indian-manufactured ophthalmic ointment in February, citing quality issues such as the presence of particles in various colours, sizes, and shapes of the nozzle, cap, and inside tubes. The ointment is given as a treatment to infants and older children and is also indicated as a preventive measure for infants. As per WHO, the affected ointment is supplied in bulk and as a component of various medical kits supplied by some international organisations providing humanitarian assistance. At least 55 countries received the affected batches, as per the global health agency. Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia × Additionally, black spots and brown splotches were found on the inner foil layer of the tubes. However, the WHO clarified that no adverse events were associated with the ointment. "Redness and swollen eyes are common reactions to the general use of tetracycline eye ointment. There is currently no indication that the above-mentioned quality issues may give rise to adverse events that are not listed in the product labelling," WHO had said. The manufacturer initiated a voluntary recall of several batches. Indian-manufactured syrups Apart from eye drops, the WHO has also highlighted three instances of diethylene or ethylene glycol contamination in Indian-manufactured syrups since October last year. These syrups have been linked to 70 deaths in Gambia and 18 deaths in Uzbekistan. Furthermore, a case of contamination was detected in the Marshall Islands and Micronesia, despite the manufacturer claiming that the syrups were never sold to these countries. 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 drug controller probes medicines exported to Sri Lanka following reports of vision loss

As India and US discuss measures to counter the escalating Chinese aggression, the focus is on India's challenges with China in the Eastern Ladakh region. Western countries see India as a deterrent against increasing Chinese aggression in the region. WION tells you more in this report.

Chinese aggression crucial part of US-India Defence Chief talks

<p>Indian Air Force&nbsp;Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.</p>

<p>Speaking at an event, India's air force chief&nbsp;highlighted the continuous upgrading of capabilities and tactical adaptations undertaken by the Indian forces since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, when a deadly skirmish between Indian and Chinese troops killed 20 Indian troops and an unspecified number of Chinese soldiers.</p>

<p>The Air Force chief said that the country has focused on developing&nbsp;adequate infrastructure along with deployment&nbsp;of assets to ensure a steady&nbsp;deterrence along&nbsp;the northern borders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-china-peace-along-borders-will-define-bilateral-ties-586813">India tells China peace along borders will define bilateral ties</a></strong></p>

<p>The ongoing confrontation between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh has seen disengagement in some areas following multiple rounds of corps commander meets and simultaneous diplomatic negotiations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-China Clash: Faceoff between Indian and Chinese troops in Arunachal's Tawang</strong></p>

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<p>"We are always on 24x7 readiness to take on any challenge," stated Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, asserting their vigilance regarding developments along the northern borders.</p>

<h2><strong>What changes after Galwan crisis?</strong></h2>

<p>Following the Galwan crisis, the Indian Air Force has enhanced surveillance capabilities across the Line of Actual Control. This entails&nbsp;deploying radars and surface-to-air guided weapons while redeploying fighter aircraft.</p>

<p>Earlier, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar had also pointed to&nbsp;the combat readiness&nbsp;of the Indian Navy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Air Force Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Indian Air Force Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Speaking at an event, India's air force chief highlighted the continuous upgrading of capabilities and tactical adaptations undertaken by the Indian forces since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, when a deadly skirmish between Indian and Chinese troops killed 20 Indian troops and an unspecified number of Chinese soldiers. The Air Force chief said that the country has focused on developing adequate infrastructure along with deployment of assets to ensure a steady deterrence along the northern borders. Also read | India tells China peace along borders will define bilateral ties The ongoing confrontation between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh has seen disengagement in some areas following multiple rounds of corps commander meets and simultaneous diplomatic negotiations. Also watch | India-China Clash: Faceoff between Indian and Chinese troops in Arunachal's Tawang × "We are always on 24x7 readiness to take on any challenge," stated Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, asserting their vigilance regarding developments along the northern borders. What changes after Galwan crisis? Following the Galwan crisis, the Indian Air Force has enhanced surveillance capabilities across the Line of Actual Control. This entails deploying radars and surface-to-air guided weapons while redeploying fighter aircraft. Earlier, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar had also pointed to the combat readiness of the Indian Navy. (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's Air Force chief reacts to Chinese threat along Line of Actual Control

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<p>A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The office space belongs to Coding Ninjas, an ed-tech startup described as a learning platform for those wanting to learn coding.</p>

<p>"It's due to an order," the security guard responds when asked by the person making the video as to why he was locking the office down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security guard then cited a senior executive as person behind the purported order and nodded in agreement when asked if this is to ensure that employees do not get outside.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>WION reached out to Coding Ninjas to verify the content seen in the viral video.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the company said: "We want to clarify the incident that occurred two weeks ago was due to a regrettable action by an employee in one of our offices. The same was immediately rectified within minutes. The employee acknowledged his mistake and apologised for the inconvenience caused due to his actions. In light of the incident, the founders also personally expressed their regret and apologised to all the employees."</p>

<p>"This was an isolated incident and we are taking proactive measures to ensure that it will not be repeated. Disciplinary action is being taken against the concerned employee. This was an aberration at Coding Ninjas and against our values and culture as an organisation. We want to assure everyone that this action was not intentional. We regret that the inconvenience this incident has caused," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>'Is it an office or a prison': Indians on social media react to viral video</b></h2>

<p>Coding Ninjas did not respond to WION's query as to what exact "disciplinary action" is being taken by the company against the concerned employee. The story will be updated if and when they come up with a response on the same.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-biggest-startup-scandal-how-one-event-in-indias-noida-scarred-indias-entrepreneurial-ambitions-578023">‘Biggest startup scandal’: How one event in India’s Noida scarred India’s entrepreneurial ambitions</a></strong></p>

<p>At the same time, it is not yet clear what was the reason for alleged locking up of the employees, as mentioned in the viral video.</p>

<p>The video has led to massive uproar on social media.</p>

<p>Individuals employed in the IT sector claimed this incident as an example of the wider state of exploitative work culture in sectors across India.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India@75: World's 3rd largest startup ecosystem</strong></p>

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<p>"Really sad to see this, hope virality of this video creates waves and toxic culture of sales led startups changes specially in ed tech space," a user commented on LinkedIn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Is it an office or a prison," another LinkedIn user asked.</p>

<p>India is the third largest tech startup ecosystem globally after the United States and China.</p>

<p>The world's fifth largest economy has nearly 27,000 active tech startups, having added 1,300 just in 2022.</p>

<p>In terms of the unicorns — the&nbsp;privately held startup companies valued at over US$1 billion each — India emerged&nbsp;as the third-largest hub with 68 such companies, according to&nbsp;Global Unicorn Index 2023.</p>

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A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside.

A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside. The office space belongs to Coding Ninjas, an ed-tech startup described as a learning platform for those wanting to learn coding. "It's due to an order," the security guard responds when asked by the person making the video as to why he was locking the office down. The security guard then cited a senior executive as person behind the purported order and nodded in agreement when asked if this is to ensure that employees do not get outside. × WION reached out to Coding Ninjas to verify the content seen in the viral video. A spokesperson for the company said: "We want to clarify the incident that occurred two weeks ago was due to a regrettable action by an employee in one of our offices. The same was immediately rectified within minutes. The employee acknowledged his mistake and apologised for the inconvenience caused due to his actions. In light of the incident, the founders also personally expressed their regret and apologised to all the employees." "This was an isolated incident and we are taking proactive measures to ensure that it will not be repeated. Disciplinary action is being taken against the concerned employee. This was an aberration at Coding Ninjas and against our values and culture as an organisation. We want to assure everyone that this action was not intentional. We regret that the inconvenience this incident has caused," the statement added. 'Is it an office or a prison': Indians on social media react to viral video Coding Ninjas did not respond to WION's query as to what exact "disciplinary action" is being taken by the company against the concerned employee. The story will be updated if and when they come up with a response on the same. Also read | ‘Biggest startup scandal’: How one event in India’s Noida scarred India’s entrepreneurial ambitions At the same time, it is not yet clear what was the reason for alleged locking up of the employees, as mentioned in the viral video. The video has led to massive uproar on social media. Individuals employed in the IT sector claimed this incident as an example of the wider state of exploitative work culture in sectors across India. Also watch | India@75: World's 3rd largest startup ecosystem × "Really sad to see this, hope virality of this video creates waves and toxic culture of sales led startups changes specially in ed tech space," a user commented on LinkedIn. "Is it an office or a prison," another LinkedIn user asked. India is the third largest tech startup ecosystem globally after the United States and China. The world's fifth largest economy has nearly 27,000 active tech startups, having added 1,300 just in 2022. In terms of the unicorns — the privately held startup companies valued at over US$1 billion each — India emerged as the third-largest hub with 68 such companies, according to Global Unicorn Index 2023. 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.

'Office or prison': Did an Indian ed-tech firm lock up its staff? Here's what we know

How frequently do you see a helicopter flying without a tail rotor or one with two rotors stacked one on top of the other? Watch WION's correspondent Siddharth MP explore the Indian Navy's Kamov-31 chopper and the vital job it plays at sea.

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