The Shanghai Coorporation Organsation(SCO) which includes China and Pakistan has unanimously adopted India's proposal for developing a digital public infrastructure.

Shanghai Coorporation Organisation gives India's UPI plan a thumbs u

Unrelenting heatwave has made it difficult for the locals to even step out of their homes as mercury touched as high as 44 degrees Celsius in parts of India on Saturday. Rohit Wellington Rajan brings you the report.

Cities reel under heatwave as temperatures soar in India | WION Climate Tracker | WION

According to Bhutan's Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji, the kingdom is close to finding a solution to its border dispute with its neighbour China. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibbal outside of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Dorji confirmed that the border is peaceful and serene and refuted China's claims to be invading its land. He also hoped that the border would be marked as quickly as possible to prevent any potential future disputes.

6th Indian Ocean Conference: Bhutan's Foreign Minister thanks Indian govt for support during Covid

Aly Houssam, the Secretary General of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, spoke exclusively with Siddhant Sibbal, the diplomatic correspondent for WION, on the sidelines of the sixth Indian Ocean conference in Dhaka about bilateral relations and India's invitation to the G20 Summit.

'Relations between India and Egypt getting diversified', says Aly Houssam in a discussion with WION

The Indian Metrological Department (IMD) on Friday noted that heatwaves are set to increase in several parts of India over the next three days. The weather department noted that heat wave conditions will prevail over West Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra on 12 and 13 May, and over East India from 15 May.

India: IMD predicts heatwave till 15 May, as severe cyclone Mocha intensifies

The Indian government has been holding many security assessment sessions to evaluate the various security plans for the historic G20 meeting that Kashmir will host on May 22.

G20 Summit 2023: Indian govt reviews security arrangements, meet on 22 May

<p>In India's largest drug bust so far, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) confiscated approximately 2,500 kg of high-purity methamphetamine or crystal meth worth around 12,000 crore rupees (approx $1.45 billion) from the southern Kerala coast and detained a suspected Pakistani national,&nbsp;the anti-drug agency said on Saturday.</p>

<p>The retrieved bags, the suspected Pakistani national, the speed boat, and some other goods seized from the "mother ship" were taken at Mattancherry Wharf in Kochi and given to NCB for further action.</p>

<p>This major operation was conducted jointly by the Indian Navy and the NCB officials. The Indian authorities were alerted after receiving a tip-off, which led to the identification of a vessel that was intercepted by the Indian Navy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-voting-begins-will-rule-of-conservative-military-backed-pm-to-maintain-power-592156">Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power?</a></p>

<p>The suspected Pakistani was apprehended during the "Operation Samudragupt". The NCB has now made three big drug trafficking-related seizures in the last 18 months, all involving the southern route.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Operation Samudragupt was launched in January 2022 to combat maritime trafficking of heroin and other drugs in the Indian Ocean region. Launched by NCB director general Satya Narayan Pradhan, Operation Samudragupt is headed by Sanjay Kumar Singh, deputy director general (Ops).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-scorching-may-heat-to-affect-tens-of-millions-592150">India's scorching temperatures to turn the heat heat for tens of millions</a></p>

<p>According to a senior officer, ongoing intelligence gathering and analysis allowed for the identification of a very likely path that the mother ship would travel in order to distribute contraband.</p>

<p>The Indian Navy received the information, and a ship of the Indian Navy was stationed nearby.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents</strong></p>

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<p>"A total of 134 sacks of suspected methamphetamine was recovered from the ship and one person [who] is suspected to be a Pakistani national was detained, who was on a speed boat and contraband was loaded on it," said an official.</p>

<p>There have been several recent drug busts in India related to crystal methamphetamine, also known as "ice".</p>

<p>In one major seizure in January 2022, the NCB and the Indian Coast Guard intercepted a vessel off the coast of Gujarat and seized approximately 300 kg of crystal meth. In another significant bust, the NCB earlier seized over 300 kg of crystal meth in Hyderabad and arrested several individuals. Authorities in India have been working to crack down on the trade and use of the drug through increased enforcement and awareness campaigns.</p>

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In India's largest drug bust so far, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) confiscated approximately 2,500 kg of high-purity methamphetamine or crystal meth worth around 12,000 crore rupees (approx $1.

In India's largest drug bust so far, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) confiscated approximately 2,500 kg of high-purity methamphetamine or crystal meth worth around 12,000 crore rupees (approx $1.45 billion) from the southern Kerala coast and detained a suspected Pakistani national, the anti-drug agency said on Saturday. The retrieved bags, the suspected Pakistani national, the speed boat, and some other goods seized from the "mother ship" were taken at Mattancherry Wharf in Kochi and given to NCB for further action. This major operation was conducted jointly by the Indian Navy and the NCB officials. The Indian authorities were alerted after receiving a tip-off, which led to the identification of a vessel that was intercepted by the Indian Navy. Also Read | Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power? The suspected Pakistani was apprehended during the "Operation Samudragupt". The NCB has now made three big drug trafficking-related seizures in the last 18 months, all involving the southern route. Operation Samudragupt was launched in January 2022 to combat maritime trafficking of heroin and other drugs in the Indian Ocean region. Launched by NCB director general Satya Narayan Pradhan, Operation Samudragupt is headed by Sanjay Kumar Singh, deputy director general (Ops). Also Read | India's scorching temperatures to turn the heat heat for tens of millions According to a senior officer, ongoing intelligence gathering and analysis allowed for the identification of a very likely path that the mother ship would travel in order to distribute contraband. The Indian Navy received the information, and a ship of the Indian Navy was stationed nearby. Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents × "A total of 134 sacks of suspected methamphetamine was recovered from the ship and one person [who] is suspected to be a Pakistani national was detained, who was on a speed boat and contraband was loaded on it," said an official. There have been several recent drug busts in India related to crystal methamphetamine, also known as "ice". In one major seizure in January 2022, the NCB and the Indian Coast Guard intercepted a vessel off the coast of Gujarat and seized approximately 300 kg of crystal meth. In another significant bust, the NCB earlier seized over 300 kg of crystal meth in Hyderabad and arrested several individuals. Authorities in India have been working to crack down on the trade and use of the drug through increased enforcement and awareness campaigns. 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. ×

In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held

<p>The high-powered selection committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi nominated Praveen Sood as the director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a two-year term on Sunday.&nbsp;Sood, a 1986-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was appointed Karnataka DGP in January 2020, succeeding Ashit Mohan Prasad, a 1985-batch IPS officer.</p>

<p>Nila Mohanan, director of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions (Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), stated in an order:&nbsp;“Approval of the Competent Authority, is hereby conveyed to the appointment of Praveen Sood, IPS-86 batch, as Director, CBI for a period of two years from the date of assumption of charge of the office vice Subhodh Kumar Jaiswal, consequent upon completion of his tenure.”</p>

<p>Sood graduated from IIT Delhi and began his career as an assistant superintendent of police (Mysore) in 1989. He then served as the SP of Bellary and Raichur before being transferred to Bengaluru as the deputy commissioner of police (law and order). In 1999, he accepted a three-year overseas deputation as a police advisor to the Government of Mauritius, where he worked closely with European and American police, as reported by The Indian Express.</p>

<p>Sood has a blog and said that in 2003, he took a break to pursue post-graduation in public policy and management from the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore and the Maxwell School of Governance at Syracuse University in New York.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-held-in-biggest-drug-bust-in-india-crystal-meth-worth-145-bn-seized-592189">In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held</a></p>

<p>“He was posted as Commissioner of Police of Mysore city from 2004 to 2007. He was also instrumental in the arrest of Pakistan-origin terrorists during his stint in Mysore. He has been decorated with Chief Minister’s Gold Medal for excellence in service in 1996, Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2002 and President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2011. Besides he is recipient of Prince Michael International Road Safety Award in the year 2006 for his contribution towards road safety &amp; traffic management and national E-Governance Gold Award for ‘Most innovative use of technology for Traffic Management’ in the year 2011,” according to Sood’s blog.</p>

<p>He also served as the Home Department's senior secretary, the Karnataka State Reserve Police's additional director general, and the Administration's additional director general of police.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;6th Indian Ocean Conference: Bhutan's Foreign Minister thanks Indian govt for support during Covid</strong></p>

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<p>As Bengaluru's commissioner of police, he established the 'Namma 100' - a 'Emergency Response System' for residents in trouble.</p>

<p>It provides 100 lines managed by multilingual "Communication Officers" 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the help of 276 Emergency Response Vehicles (Hoysala) scattered across Bengaluru City. He was also responsible in the establishment of the 'Suraksha' App and the 'Pink Hoyasala' run by female officers, which were designed specifically for women and children in distress.</p>

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The high-powered selection committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi nominated Praveen Sood as the director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a two-year term on Sunday.

The high-powered selection committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi nominated Praveen Sood as the director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a two-year term on Sunday. Sood, a 1986-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was appointed Karnataka DGP in January 2020, succeeding Ashit Mohan Prasad, a 1985-batch IPS officer. Nila Mohanan, director of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions (Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), stated in an order: “Approval of the Competent Authority, is hereby conveyed to the appointment of Praveen Sood, IPS-86 batch, as Director, CBI for a period of two years from the date of assumption of charge of the office vice Subhodh Kumar Jaiswal, consequent upon completion of his tenure.” Sood graduated from IIT Delhi and began his career as an assistant superintendent of police (Mysore) in 1989. He then served as the SP of Bellary and Raichur before being transferred to Bengaluru as the deputy commissioner of police (law and order). In 1999, he accepted a three-year overseas deputation as a police advisor to the Government of Mauritius, where he worked closely with European and American police, as reported by The Indian Express. Sood has a blog and said that in 2003, he took a break to pursue post-graduation in public policy and management from the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore and the Maxwell School of Governance at Syracuse University in New York. ALSO READ | In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held “He was posted as Commissioner of Police of Mysore city from 2004 to 2007. He was also instrumental in the arrest of Pakistan-origin terrorists during his stint in Mysore. He has been decorated with Chief Minister’s Gold Medal for excellence in service in 1996, Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2002 and President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2011. Besides he is recipient of Prince Michael International Road Safety Award in the year 2006 for his contribution towards road safety & traffic management and national E-Governance Gold Award for ‘Most innovative use of technology for Traffic Management’ in the year 2011,” according to Sood’s blog. He also served as the Home Department's senior secretary, the Karnataka State Reserve Police's additional director general, and the Administration's additional director general of police. ALSO WATCH | 6th Indian Ocean Conference: Bhutan's Foreign Minister thanks Indian govt for support during Covid As Bengaluru's commissioner of police, he established the 'Namma 100' - a 'Emergency Response System' for residents in trouble. It provides 100 lines managed by multilingual "Communication Officers" 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the help of 276 Emergency Response Vehicles (Hoysala) scattered across Bengaluru City. He was also responsible in the establishment of the 'Suraksha' App and the 'Pink Hoyasala' run by female officers, which were designed specifically for women and children in distress. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Who is Praveen Sood? IPS officer, now chief of India's probe agency CBI

India has the lowest divorce rate in the world. Only 1% of Indian marriages end up in divorce. Does this mean Indians are better at maintaining relationships? Or is it because of the stigma around divorce? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas Plus: India has the lowest divorce rate in the world. Here's why

<p>Satellite images have revealed China’s intelligence facility being set up in the Great Coco Island. This is barely 50km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands – making it yet another location where Indian and Chinese forces will come face to face.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For years, China has been attempting to carve out a circle of threats around India. But today's India is different from the one China faced in 1962 and it is prepared for all possibilities. "If you want peace, you must prepare for war," said the Indian Navy Chief Adm Hari Kumar at the Chanakya Dialogues, and that is exactly what India is doing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here’s how India is checking and preparing to shred China’s threat circle.</p>

<p><strong>China's ring of fire in South Asia&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>From Galwan Valley in Ladakh to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh or Doklam in Bhutan, China has made it clear it does not understand or follow the status quo with India. But the inflated dragon balloon has sprouted up at more venues to create a fringe around India.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Chittagong port, Bangladesh:</strong>&nbsp;China has been pressuring Bangladesh to permit a naval facility close to Chittagong, giving it direct access to the Bay of Bengal.</li>
	<li><strong>Great coco, Myanmar:&nbsp;</strong>In Myanmar’s coco islands, reports suggest that China has been preparing ground ever since 1994. Satellite images show China’s 2,300-metre runway and radar station on the island. It's just 50 km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands.</li>
	<li><strong>Kyaukpyu, Myanmar:</strong>&nbsp;China also has access to a commercial maritime facility in Myanmar’s Kyaukpyu just across from India that can double up as a military facility.</li>
	<li><strong>Hambantota port, Sri Lanka:</strong>&nbsp;In the south of India, Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port has been leased to China for 99 years and China berthed its ship Yuan Wang-5. China said it's a research and survey vessel but experts say it was at the port to spy on India.</li>
	<li><strong>The Maldives:</strong>&nbsp;In neighbouring Maldives, China has been investing heavily to gain control. It has propped up an opposition leader there as well. Reports suggest that the Maldives already owes China $1.4 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

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<p><strong>India’s counter: A great shield of armour</strong></p>

<p>Be it the Indo-Pacific, Indian Ocean Region or the LAC, India is expanding its security network to cut off China wherever they attempt to expand itself or overstay its welcome:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>S-400 missile defence system:</strong> The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed its first S-400 squadron near Pathankot, from where any air attack from China on Ladakh, Himachal and Uttarakhand can be thwarted. Another S-400 squadron has been deployed at India’s Chicken neck in the Northeast to counter China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Airbase at LAC:&nbsp;</strong>India is also upgrading its Nyoma airfield in Eastern Ladakh for fighter jet operations. With this, India will have its jets parked less than 50 kilometres away from the LAC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Indian Arms at LAC:&nbsp;</strong>India’s Akash missile system has been deployed facing China. Army has deployed medium-range artillery guns, long-range rockets, around 75 Ultra Light Howitzer M-777, K-9 Vajra Tracked Self-Propelled Howitzers, Pinaka rocket systems and Dhanush gun systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Army is procuring anti-drone systems, rough terrain vehicles and loitering munitions to hit the high-value targets from across the LAC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Garud Elite Commandos:</strong>&nbsp;India has deployed its Garud Special Forces of the IAF along the LAC from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh. They are India’s elite commandos equipped with cutting-edge weapons. They’ve been deployed for carrying out "specialist operations".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Boots on ground:&nbsp;</strong>India has sanctioned 9,400 fresh troops for seven new border battalions. They will be utilised for manning 47 new border posts in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Helipads:&nbsp;</strong>Almost all forward posts along the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh will have a large helipad each.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s Tri-service command:&nbsp;</strong>India has a tri-service theatre command located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The command comprises the Indian Navy, Army and Air Force. It is India’s biggest strategic asset to counter China. It can directly cut off China from the Strait of Malacca which is the heartbeat of China's operation as 80 per cent of its oil supplies pass through the strait.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Maldives Connect:</strong>&nbsp;While China invests in Maldives, India has forged deep ties with Maldives to cut off China here as well. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently visited Maldives, gifting them a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from its readiness, India has also forged military partnerships and diplomatic ties with the US, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That pretty much leaves China with only one real ally in the South Asian region: Pakistan. Do you agree India will be able to checkmate China in case of a conflict in the South Asian region?&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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Satellite images have revealed China’s intelligence facility being set up in the Great Coco Island. This is barely 50km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands – making it yet another location where Indian and Chinese forces will come face to face.

Satellite images have revealed China’s intelligence facility being set up in the Great Coco Island. This is barely 50km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands – making it yet another location where Indian and Chinese forces will come face to face. For years, China has been attempting to carve out a circle of threats around India. But today's India is different from the one China faced in 1962 and it is prepared for all possibilities. "If you want peace, you must prepare for war," said the Indian Navy Chief Adm Hari Kumar at the Chanakya Dialogues, and that is exactly what India is doing. Here’s how India is checking and preparing to shred China’s threat circle. China's ring of fire in South Asia From Galwan Valley in Ladakh to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh or Doklam in Bhutan, China has made it clear it does not understand or follow the status quo with India. But the inflated dragon balloon has sprouted up at more venues to create a fringe around India. Chittagong port, Bangladesh: China has been pressuring Bangladesh to permit a naval facility close to Chittagong, giving it direct access to the Bay of Bengal. Great coco, Myanmar: In Myanmar’s coco islands, reports suggest that China has been preparing ground ever since 1994. Satellite images show China’s 2,300-metre runway and radar station on the island. It's just 50 km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Kyaukpyu, Myanmar: China also has access to a commercial maritime facility in Myanmar’s Kyaukpyu just across from India that can double up as a military facility. Hambantota port, Sri Lanka: In the south of India, Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port has been leased to China for 99 years and China berthed its ship Yuan Wang-5. China said it's a research and survey vessel but experts say it was at the port to spy on India. The Maldives: In neighbouring Maldives, China has been investing heavily to gain control. It has propped up an opposition leader there as well. Reports suggest that the Maldives already owes China $1.4 billion. Watch this report: × India’s counter: A great shield of armour Be it the Indo-Pacific, Indian Ocean Region or the LAC, India is expanding its security network to cut off China wherever they attempt to expand itself or overstay its welcome: S-400 missile defence system: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed its first S-400 squadron near Pathankot, from where any air attack from China on Ladakh, Himachal and Uttarakhand can be thwarted. Another S-400 squadron has been deployed at India’s Chicken neck in the Northeast to counter China. Airbase at LAC: India is also upgrading its Nyoma airfield in Eastern Ladakh for fighter jet operations. With this, India will have its jets parked less than 50 kilometres away from the LAC. Indian Arms at LAC: India’s Akash missile system has been deployed facing China. Army has deployed medium-range artillery guns, long-range rockets, around 75 Ultra Light Howitzer M-777, K-9 Vajra Tracked Self-Propelled Howitzers, Pinaka rocket systems and Dhanush gun systems. Indian Army is procuring anti-drone systems, rough terrain vehicles and loitering munitions to hit the high-value targets from across the LAC. Garud Elite Commandos: India has deployed its Garud Special Forces of the IAF along the LAC from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh. They are India’s elite commandos equipped with cutting-edge weapons. They’ve been deployed for carrying out "specialist operations". Boots on ground: India has sanctioned 9,400 fresh troops for seven new border battalions. They will be utilised for manning 47 new border posts in Arunachal Pradesh. Helipads: Almost all forward posts along the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh will have a large helipad each. India’s Tri-service command: India has a tri-service theatre command located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The command comprises the Indian Navy, Army and Air Force. It is India’s biggest strategic asset to counter China. It can directly cut off China from the Strait of Malacca which is the heartbeat of China's operation as 80 per cent of its oil supplies pass through the strait. Maldives Connect: While China invests in Maldives, India has forged deep ties with Maldives to cut off China here as well. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently visited Maldives, gifting them a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft. Apart from its readiness, India has also forged military partnerships and diplomatic ties with the US, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. That pretty much leaves China with only one real ally in the South Asian region: Pakistan. Do you agree India will be able to checkmate China in case of a conflict in the South Asian region? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How India checkmates China's circle of threat in South Asian region

<p>SCO nations have adopted India's proposal for developing digital public infrastructure (DPI), according to Union Minister for Electronics &amp; Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. India continues to make significant strides aimed at expanding access to digital technologies and services like Aadhaar, Unified Payments Interface, DigiLocker, and CoWin.&nbsp;Indian minister Vaishnaw chaired the meeting of ICT ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member countries on Saturday where they unanimously adopted India's proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They met today and unanimously adopted India’s proposal for developing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as the right way for deploying digital technology among member states,” Vaishnaw said in a statement post chairing the meeting.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-voting-begins-will-rule-of-conservative-military-backed-pm-to-maintain-power-592156">Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power?</a></p>

<p>The SCO grouping includes Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and India. It also has four Observer States - Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia. Moreover, the intra-governmental body also has six Dialogue Partners namely Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkey.</p>

<p>According to Vaishnaw, DPI is crucial for ensuring that technology is made accessible to everybody.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There was also a need felt for interoperability between different systems being developed by the member states and the body recognized the need for setting up an organisation for setting common standards for interoperability of digital systems among member states,” he said.</p>

<p>According to information from the National Payments Cooperation of India, there were around 74 billion UPI transactions in 2022, totaling 125.94 trillion rupees. The UPI platform processed more than 38 billion transactions worth 71.54 trillion rupees in 2021. Also, 2.2 billion doses of the Covid-19 vaccine have already been given through CoWin, India's Covid-19 vaccination app.</p>

<p>Also Read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-held-in-biggest-drug-bust-in-india-crystal-meth-worth-145-bn-seized-592189">In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held</a></p>

<p>“I would urge all fellow members of SCO to assess, evaluate and adopt India Stack and benefit from this digital public infrastructure,” Vaishnaw said.</p>

<p>India Stack refers to a set of digital infrastructure services that have been developed by the Indian government to facilitate the delivery of various services to citizens, businesses, and other organisations.</p>

<p>The core components of India Stack include Aadhaar, a biometric identification system that provides a unique identification number to every Indian citizen; e-KYC, which allows individuals and businesses to electronically verify their identity; and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which is a real-time payment system that enables instant transactions between bank accounts.</p>

<p>Together, these components provide a digital foundation that can be leveraged by various organisations to offer a range of services, such as e-commerce, financial services and healthcare, among others.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents</strong></p>

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<p>The aim of India Stack is to create a more efficient and inclusive digital economy in India, while also reducing the cost and complexity of delivering services. The system has been credited with enabling greater financial inclusion and helping to bring more people into the formal economy.</p>

<p>According to a statement from the ministry, India also informed SCO members of its plans to invest $5 billion to provide broadband access to all 250,000 village councils and $3 billion to offer mobile coverage to villages in rural locations.</p>

<p>Kazim Rizvi, the founder of the Dialogue, a technological think tank, one of the main outputs of the India Stack is UPI, which has altered the country's payments system and increased the measure of financial inclusion by 5% compounded annual growth rate.</p>

<p>“The export of UPI to other countries has grown significantly, with the international arm of NPCI partnering with countries such as the UK, the UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Bhutan, Nepal, etc.,” Rizvi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The recent signature by SCO member states to adopt India’s proposal for developing digital public infrastructure as the way forward for deploying digital technologies in members is a significant recognition of India’s efforts towards having digitally inclusive growth at the global scale.”</p>

<p>India has already agreed to the implementation of UPI with more than a dozen other countries. The nation is now providing the technology to a number of nations as part of its G20 Presidency duties.&nbsp;Currently, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Mauritius, Nepal, and Bhutan accept BHIM UPI QR.</p>

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SCO nations have adopted India's proposal for developing digital public infrastructure (DPI), according to Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw.

SCO nations have adopted India's proposal for developing digital public infrastructure (DPI), according to Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. India continues to make significant strides aimed at expanding access to digital technologies and services like Aadhaar, Unified Payments Interface, DigiLocker, and CoWin. Indian minister Vaishnaw chaired the meeting of ICT ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member countries on Saturday where they unanimously adopted India's proposal. “They met today and unanimously adopted India’s proposal for developing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as the right way for deploying digital technology among member states,” Vaishnaw said in a statement post chairing the meeting. Also Read | Thailand voting begins, will conservative military-backed PM maintain power? The SCO grouping includes Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and India. It also has four Observer States - Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia. Moreover, the intra-governmental body also has six Dialogue Partners namely Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkey. According to Vaishnaw, DPI is crucial for ensuring that technology is made accessible to everybody. “There was also a need felt for interoperability between different systems being developed by the member states and the body recognized the need for setting up an organisation for setting common standards for interoperability of digital systems among member states,” he said. According to information from the National Payments Cooperation of India, there were around 74 billion UPI transactions in 2022, totaling 125.94 trillion rupees. The UPI platform processed more than 38 billion transactions worth 71.54 trillion rupees in 2021. Also, 2.2 billion doses of the Covid-19 vaccine have already been given through CoWin, India's Covid-19 vaccination app. Also Read| In India's biggest drug bust, crystal meth worth $1.45bn seized from Kerala coast, Pakistani held “I would urge all fellow members of SCO to assess, evaluate and adopt India Stack and benefit from this digital public infrastructure,” Vaishnaw said. India Stack refers to a set of digital infrastructure services that have been developed by the Indian government to facilitate the delivery of various services to citizens, businesses, and other organisations. The core components of India Stack include Aadhaar, a biometric identification system that provides a unique identification number to every Indian citizen; e-KYC, which allows individuals and businesses to electronically verify their identity; and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which is a real-time payment system that enables instant transactions between bank accounts. Together, these components provide a digital foundation that can be leveraged by various organisations to offer a range of services, such as e-commerce, financial services and healthcare, among others. Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents × The aim of India Stack is to create a more efficient and inclusive digital economy in India, while also reducing the cost and complexity of delivering services. The system has been credited with enabling greater financial inclusion and helping to bring more people into the formal economy. According to a statement from the ministry, India also informed SCO members of its plans to invest $5 billion to provide broadband access to all 250,000 village councils and $3 billion to offer mobile coverage to villages in rural locations. Kazim Rizvi, the founder of the Dialogue, a technological think tank, one of the main outputs of the India Stack is UPI, which has altered the country's payments system and increased the measure of financial inclusion by 5% compounded annual growth rate. “The export of UPI to other countries has grown significantly, with the international arm of NPCI partnering with countries such as the UK, the UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Bhutan, Nepal, etc.,” Rizvi added. “The recent signature by SCO member states to adopt India’s proposal for developing digital public infrastructure as the way forward for deploying digital technologies in members is a significant recognition of India’s efforts towards having digitally inclusive growth at the global scale.” India has already agreed to the implementation of UPI with more than a dozen other countries. The nation is now providing the technology to a number of nations as part of its G20 Presidency duties. Currently, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Mauritius, Nepal, and Bhutan accept BHIM UPI QR. 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. ×

Leading the way for world: India's proposal for digital public infra adopted by SCO members

The apple farmers and traders in the Kashmir Valley are extremely happy after the Indian government decided to amend its import policy for apples. The central government recently changed the import policy of India for apples and also banned the import of apples below the minimum price.

India: Kashmiri apple farmers happy after Indian government amends apple import policy

<p>The scorching May heat is set to take over most of India on May 15 and 16. The heat waves in central India and parts of the north are set to spread across a vast landmass, affecting tens of millions.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the power demand is likely to rise as more people would turn to cooling devices such as air conditioners.</p>

<h2><strong>Northeast India set to see showers</strong></h2>

<p>India's weather department said that moderate to fairly widespread rainfall is expected over northeast India during 13th to 16th May.</p>

<p>"Heavy rainfall very likely at isolated places over Arunachal Pradesh on May 14th and 15th; over Assam and Meghalaya during 14th and 17th and over Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," the weather department's readout said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweltering-heat-melts-much-of-asia-with-temperatures-likely-to-rise-further-584123">Sweltering heat melts much of Asia with temperatures likely to rise further</a></strong></p>

<p>"Isolated very heavy rainfalls are also likely over Assam and Meghalaya on May 15th and May 16th and over Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during 14th to 16th May," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>India May temperatures: Heatwave warnings</strong></h2>

<p>Hot and uncomfortable weather is likely over the eastern state of Odisha in the next five days, due to humidity and high temperatures, and in Kerala and Tamil Nadu on May 13-14, the India Meteorological Department said Friday.</p>

<p>Most parts of the nation will remain dry in the five days from Friday except some areas in West Bengal, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and northeastern states, according to the weather department.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Schools in parts of India disrupted due to heatwave</strong></p>

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<p>Showers were above normal across most of the country in the week ended May 10, it said.</p>

<p>Heat wave conditions are likely over parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal after May 12; Rajasthan on May 12-13 and in parts of Andhra Pradesh for four days through May 16.</p>

<p>The highest maximum temperature in India this week was &nbsp;44.8C (112.6F) at Jalgaon in Maharashtra.</p>

<p>India logged its hottest February this year since record-keeping began in 1901, according to the Indian Meteorological Department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, above-normal rainfall due to seven reported western disturbances, including five strong ones, kept temperatures in check in March.</p>

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The scorching May heat is set to take over most of India on May 15 and 16. The heat waves in central India and parts of the north are set to spread across a vast landmass, affecting tens of millions.

The scorching May heat is set to take over most of India on May 15 and 16. The heat waves in central India and parts of the north are set to spread across a vast landmass, affecting tens of millions. Meanwhile, the power demand is likely to rise as more people would turn to cooling devices such as air conditioners. Northeast India set to see showers India's weather department said that moderate to fairly widespread rainfall is expected over northeast India during 13th to 16th May. "Heavy rainfall very likely at isolated places over Arunachal Pradesh on May 14th and 15th; over Assam and Meghalaya during 14th and 17th and over Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," the weather department's readout said. ALSO READ | Sweltering heat melts much of Asia with temperatures likely to rise further "Isolated very heavy rainfalls are also likely over Assam and Meghalaya on May 15th and May 16th and over Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during 14th to 16th May," it added. India May temperatures: Heatwave warnings Hot and uncomfortable weather is likely over the eastern state of Odisha in the next five days, due to humidity and high temperatures, and in Kerala and Tamil Nadu on May 13-14, the India Meteorological Department said Friday. Most parts of the nation will remain dry in the five days from Friday except some areas in West Bengal, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and northeastern states, according to the weather department. ALSO WATCH | Schools in parts of India disrupted due to heatwave × Showers were above normal across most of the country in the week ended May 10, it said. Heat wave conditions are likely over parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal after May 12; Rajasthan on May 12-13 and in parts of Andhra Pradesh for four days through May 16. The highest maximum temperature in India this week was 44.8C (112.6F) at Jalgaon in Maharashtra. India logged its hottest February this year since record-keeping began in 1901, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. However, above-normal rainfall due to seven reported western disturbances, including five strong ones, kept temperatures in check in March. 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 scorching temperatures to turn on the heat for tens of millions

Being a working mother is as fulfilling as it could be challenging. This International Mother's Day, we spoke to some of the working super-moms of WION about their experience. Take a look.

Mother's Day Special: A day in the life of working mothers

How are the economic ties between India and UK proceeding and what role is the diaspora playing in strengthening relations between both countries? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with Manoj Ladwa, founder of India Global Forum in the UK, and Lord Karan Bilimoria, founder and chairman of Cobra Beer.

India to be one of 3 superpowers in world, says Karan Bilimoria, founder Cobra Beer| The India Story

On the second day of the Indian Ocean Conference in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, high-level delegations and also think tanks from about 25 different countries are taking part in the sixth-edition of the conference. Watch WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal in a conversation with Sri Lanka's ports, shipping and aviation minister Nimal Siripala De Silva.

Sri Lankan minister Nimal Siripala De Silva in a conversation with WION on India-Lanka relationship

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) former Mumbai Zonal director Sameer Wankhede, who headed the Cordelia Cruise ship probe against Aryan Khan, in a case of corruption for allegedly demanding a bribe to “settle the case”.

India: Ex-NCB officer who led probe in Aryan Khan case booked by CBI for ‘corruption’

In the 6th Indian Ocean Conference, 2023, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar said, "This is the sixth conference and over this period has evolved a lot. It is actually the premier platform to bring together all the countries of the Indian Ocean.

Committed to the well-being of Indian Ocean countries: Indian EAM S Jaishankar in Dhaka

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Bhutan's foreign minister, Tandi Darji, claimed in an exclusive interview with Weon's major diplomatic correspondence that Bhutan is close to resolving its boundary dispute with China.

Bhutan FM Tandi Dorji: Hope to demarcate border with China

India-Bhutan Ties: Bhutan Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji thanks Indian govt for support during Covid

In the 6th Indian Ocean Conference, 2023, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "This is the sixth conference and over this period has evolved a lot. It is actually the premier platform to bring together all the countries of the Indian Ocean.

<p>On the sidelines of the two-day 6th Indian Ocean Conference being held in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in an exclusive conversation with WION's Sidhant Sibal, underscored the need for upholding the Law of the Seas. The foreign minister highlighted that the countries in the region should have "orderly, acceptable consensus on maritime activities" and there must be adherence and respect for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).</p>

<p>EAM also spoke at length on the key issues of the debt crisis in the region and stressed the greater need to have more transparency in lending. Bangladesh is hosting the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) from 12-13 May in the capital city of Dhaka. With respect to India's relationship with Bangladesh, Jaishankar stressed how the relationship will give Indian northeastern states a much better chance at accessing the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-admits-retreat-north-of-bakhmut-several-injured-after-ukrainian-missiles-strike-in-luhansk-591839">Several reported injured after Ukrainian missiles strike in Luhansk; Russia admits retreat north of Bakhmut</a></p>

<p><strong>Here is the complete interview:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>What is the main agenda of the Indian Ocean Conference? What Delhi can bring in the region on various issues, including security, climate change or connectivity?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Jaishankar: </strong>This is the sixth conference and over this period it has evolved a lot. Today, it is the premiere platform to bring together all the countries of the Indian Ocean. Indo-Pacific is very much the fashion nowadays. There is a lot of acceptance of it. There is a lot of understanding of it. Not just in this part of the world but also in Europe and in America. But we should not forget that the Indian Ocean is the core constituent of the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean has its own issues. Most of them are developing countries, and lots of them are post-colonial countries, connectivity is&nbsp;an issue, growth is an issue, and debt is an issue. So, there are a particular set of concerns that are the natural agenda for the Indian Ocean and that is what really the conference is all about.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cnns-anderson-cooper-defends-networks-decision-to-hold-trump-townhall-591837">CNN's Anderson Cooper defends network's decision to hold Trump townhall</a></p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>What are the main concerns, you also mentioned UNCLOS and the debt crisis and how they can be resolved by all the countries collaborating together.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Jaishankar: </strong>In my speech, in a limited time, you want to flag the key issues. I flagged UNCLOS because in a sense UNCLOS is the constitution of the oceans. So, adherence to UNCLOS and respect for UNCLOS is essential. We are to have an orderly, acceptable consensus on maritime activities but there are some very specific problems. You spoke about connectivity how connectivity got disrupted and how we need to rebuild it. I also talked about debt and viable projects in this part of the world, we are seeing countries struggling with that, countries struggling with projects where lending has not been transparent, where the return on investment is not realistic and it has put countries under pressure so it is important we learn from lessons. It should not be that one country's problems are only that country's problems. I think there are lessons for everybody else. I think that needs to be flagged. So I would also say that the idea of collaboration itself among countries is essential because you are talking about a vast space.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>We have Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) as well. How is India taking the lead in this specific grouping?</p>

<p><strong>Jaishankar: </strong>IORA is an established organisation. It has its own agenda, has its own practices, and mechanisms. I mentioned Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). The president of Mauritius mentioned Indian Ocean Commission. I also mentioned the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Remember this is the place where the BIMSTEC secretariat is located. So there are a lot of organisations. It is good you are covering this. The Indian Ocean should get attention. I am sure we will have a very good discussion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the full interview here:&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>WION: </strong>You are visiting Bangladesh. How is the relationship between the two countries because there is an increased momentum between the two countries? It is termed as a 'Sonali Adhyay' or the golden phase in the relationship as well. If you can talk about that.</p>

<p><strong>Jaishankar: </strong>The relationship has been going on very well, particularly in the last decade. We have seen it growing in every possible sense. When you look at trade, when you look at investment, the movement of people, the projects we are doing, the infrastructure which is helping both the countries. When you see the roads, the railways, the use of ports. And from an Indian perspective, there is obviously a Bangladeshi perspective and interest. But from an Indian perspective, it has great significance where the northeast is concerned because a strong partnership with Bangladesh will give our northeastern states a much better chance at actually accessing the world, in interacting with the rest of the region. The very fact that we are doing this conference here, that itself is a statement of comfort and my coming here, obviously it is for the conference but it is always a pleasure to come to Bangladesh and every visit shows me how much further the relationship has come.&nbsp;</p>

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On the sidelines of the two-day 6th Indian Ocean Conference being held in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in an exclusive conversation with WION's Sidhant Sibal, underscored the need for upholding the Law of the Seas.

On the sidelines of the two-day 6th Indian Ocean Conference being held in Dhaka, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in an exclusive conversation with WION's Sidhant Sibal, underscored the need for upholding the Law of the Seas. The foreign minister highlighted that the countries in the region should have "orderly, acceptable consensus on maritime activities" and there must be adherence and respect for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). EAM also spoke at length on the key issues of the debt crisis in the region and stressed the greater need to have more transparency in lending. Bangladesh is hosting the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) from 12-13 May in the capital city of Dhaka. With respect to India's relationship with Bangladesh, Jaishankar stressed how the relationship will give Indian northeastern states a much better chance at accessing the world. Also Read | Several reported injured after Ukrainian missiles strike in Luhansk; Russia admits retreat north of Bakhmut Here is the complete interview: WION: What is the main agenda of the Indian Ocean Conference? What Delhi can bring in the region on various issues, including security, climate change or connectivity? Jaishankar: This is the sixth conference and over this period it has evolved a lot. Today, it is the premiere platform to bring together all the countries of the Indian Ocean. Indo-Pacific is very much the fashion nowadays. There is a lot of acceptance of it. There is a lot of understanding of it. Not just in this part of the world but also in Europe and in America. But we should not forget that the Indian Ocean is the core constituent of the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean has its own issues. Most of them are developing countries, and lots of them are post-colonial countries, connectivity is an issue, growth is an issue, and debt is an issue. So, there are a particular set of concerns that are the natural agenda for the Indian Ocean and that is what really the conference is all about. Also Read | CNN's Anderson Cooper defends network's decision to hold Trump townhall WION: What are the main concerns, you also mentioned UNCLOS and the debt crisis and how they can be resolved by all the countries collaborating together. Jaishankar: In my speech, in a limited time, you want to flag the key issues. I flagged UNCLOS because in a sense UNCLOS is the constitution of the oceans. So, adherence to UNCLOS and respect for UNCLOS is essential. We are to have an orderly, acceptable consensus on maritime activities but there are some very specific problems. You spoke about connectivity how connectivity got disrupted and how we need to rebuild it. I also talked about debt and viable projects in this part of the world, we are seeing countries struggling with that, countries struggling with projects where lending has not been transparent, where the return on investment is not realistic and it has put countries under pressure so it is important we learn from lessons. It should not be that one country's problems are only that country's problems. I think there are lessons for everybody else. I think that needs to be flagged. So I would also say that the idea of collaboration itself among countries is essential because you are talking about a vast space. WION: We have Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) as well. How is India taking the lead in this specific grouping? Jaishankar: IORA is an established organisation. It has its own agenda, has its own practices, and mechanisms. I mentioned Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). The president of Mauritius mentioned Indian Ocean Commission. I also mentioned the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Remember this is the place where the BIMSTEC secretariat is located. So there are a lot of organisations. It is good you are covering this. The Indian Ocean should get attention. I am sure we will have a very good discussion. Watch the full interview here: × WION: You are visiting Bangladesh. How is the relationship between the two countries because there is an increased momentum between the two countries? It is termed as a 'Sonali Adhyay' or the golden phase in the relationship as well. If you can talk about that. Jaishankar: The relationship has been going on very well, particularly in the last decade. We have seen it growing in every possible sense. When you look at trade, when you look at investment, the movement of people, the projects we are doing, the infrastructure which is helping both the countries. When you see the roads, the railways, the use of ports. And from an Indian perspective, there is obviously a Bangladeshi perspective and interest. But from an Indian perspective, it has great significance where the northeast is concerned because a strong partnership with Bangladesh will give our northeastern states a much better chance at actually accessing the world, in interacting with the rest of the region. The very fact that we are doing this conference here, that itself is a statement of comfort and my coming here, obviously it is for the conference but it is always a pleasure to come to Bangladesh and every visit shows me how much further the relationship has come. 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.

EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence to, respect for ‘constitution of the oceans’ UNCLOS

Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam speaks to WION on ties with India, G20, and more.

Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam on ties with India, G20, and more

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