Much to US and Russia’s dismay, India’s defence imports are shrinking year-on-year and it's because of the emergence of the Indian defence industry! India will spend 2.71 Lakh Crores on defence equipment in FY23 and 99% procurement will be made from the Indian Defence Industry. Watch how India is reducing its defence imports and positioning itself as a strategic defence exporter on Game Plan with Shivan Chanana.

Rise of the Indian Defence Industry | Exports cross ₹130 Billion, imports down 11%

<p>South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world". The visiting minister met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Friday to discuss the strengthening of ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>The meeting comes as both countries celebrate 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Republic of Korea, and the two ministers discussed plans for future cooperation in a range of areas.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-university-of-oklahoma-investigates-reports-of-active-shooter-possible-shots-fired-on-campus-580308">Police issue 'ALL CLEAR' after reports of active shooter at University of Oklahoma, calls off alert</a></p>

<p>Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, South Korean Foreign minister said, "Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community". The minister also spoke about India's G20 Presidency, soft power and his Hindi speaking skills.</p>

<p><em>Here's the complete interview:</em></p>

<p><strong>WION: You are on an India visit, you just paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, your comments.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Park Jin: </strong>Yes. I cherish the noble spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha, which advocates democracy and human rights. I think that's the core values that we share with India. India as Korea's Special strategic partner. And together with India, Korea will pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world. I had the honor to visit the cemetery 27 years ago, when I was serving as a presidential press secretary. At the time, I was very much impressed by Mahatma Gandhi's words, the seven sins such as politics without principle, commerce without morality, science without humanity. These are the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, that modern society should always remind ourselves of. So today, I'm very happy to come back to Mahatma Gandhi cemetery and remind his noble philosophy.</p>

<p><strong>WION: You met the Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, what was the conversation like, you also spoke in Hindi which has been the talk of the town.</strong></p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-to-have-tested-another-nuclear-capable-underwater-drone-580303">North Korea claims to have tested another nuclear-capable underwater drone</a></p>

<p><strong>Park Jin: </strong>Well, I took a quick course in Hindi. Hindi is a very different language. But I can feel the national character of India through my learning of Hindi language. I think that Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community. So yesterday, Foreign Minister Jaishankar, who is my good friend, and I had a very substantive and future oriented discussion about our bilateral partnership to commemorate the 50 years of our diplomatic relationship. Now we have to prepare for another 50 years, Korea, India partnership so in that sense, my meeting with Dr. Jaishankar was very helpful and very meaningful.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see India's G 20 presidency, your part of the G 20. Grouping, India is the president of the G 20 grouping?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Park Jin: </strong>G20 has a very heavy responsibility and roles to play, especially towards the countries in the Global South. So we discussed that together yesterday. And in September, when the G 20 summit meeting takes place in India, then I think that we will have to present a new vision for global society, because we are faced with many common challenges. Such as the COVID 19 pandemic, global crisis, and value chain disruptions and global technological competition. So these are the problems that no one country can solve. And, in that sense, Korea and India have to work together to deal with the common challenges that the whole of humanity is facing.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt &amp; road initiative</strong></p>

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<p><strong>WION: So my last question to you is soft power, South Korea's Soft power is well known K pop but India's focus also has been on its soft power. Your embassy here was in the news for the Natu Natu song. What's your view about a soft power and of course Natu Natu..</strong></p>

<p><strong>Park Jin: </strong>I love Indian Bollywood movies. I've seen many movies myself, and Rise, Row and Revolt with Natu Natu dancing and singing, it is a fantastic culture of India. Many Koreans appreciate this wonderful culture of your country. And also I know many young Indians are interested in Korean K Pop, K music, K drama, K movie and K food. So we need to exchange our cultural assets between our two countries, so that we can move forward to the future. So Korea and India have great potential to develop together.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Few words in Hindi...</strong></p>

<p><strong>Park Jin: </strong>I have to remember Namaste. Namaste, ap logon se mil kar acha laga, mera name Park Jin hai, mai Korea ka foreign minister hun. (Hi, great to meet you, my name is Park Jin and I am the foreign minister of South Korea).</p>

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South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world".

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world". The visiting minister met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Friday to discuss the strengthening of ties between the two countries. The meeting comes as both countries celebrate 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Republic of Korea, and the two ministers discussed plans for future cooperation in a range of areas. Also Read | Police issue 'ALL CLEAR' after reports of active shooter at University of Oklahoma, calls off alert Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, South Korean Foreign minister said, "Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community". The minister also spoke about India's G20 Presidency, soft power and his Hindi speaking skills. Here's the complete interview: WION: You are on an India visit, you just paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, your comments. Park Jin: Yes. I cherish the noble spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha, which advocates democracy and human rights. I think that's the core values that we share with India. India as Korea's Special strategic partner. And together with India, Korea will pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world. I had the honor to visit the cemetery 27 years ago, when I was serving as a presidential press secretary. At the time, I was very much impressed by Mahatma Gandhi's words, the seven sins such as politics without principle, commerce without morality, science without humanity. These are the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, that modern society should always remind ourselves of. So today, I'm very happy to come back to Mahatma Gandhi cemetery and remind his noble philosophy. WION: You met the Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, what was the conversation like, you also spoke in Hindi which has been the talk of the town. Also Read | North Korea claims to have tested another nuclear-capable underwater drone Park Jin: Well, I took a quick course in Hindi. Hindi is a very different language. But I can feel the national character of India through my learning of Hindi language. I think that Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community. So yesterday, Foreign Minister Jaishankar, who is my good friend, and I had a very substantive and future oriented discussion about our bilateral partnership to commemorate the 50 years of our diplomatic relationship. Now we have to prepare for another 50 years, Korea, India partnership so in that sense, my meeting with Dr. Jaishankar was very helpful and very meaningful. WION: How do you see India's G 20 presidency, your part of the G 20. Grouping, India is the president of the G 20 grouping? Park Jin: G20 has a very heavy responsibility and roles to play, especially towards the countries in the Global South. So we discussed that together yesterday. And in September, when the G 20 summit meeting takes place in India, then I think that we will have to present a new vision for global society, because we are faced with many common challenges. Such as the COVID 19 pandemic, global crisis, and value chain disruptions and global technological competition. So these are the problems that no one country can solve. And, in that sense, Korea and India have to work together to deal with the common challenges that the whole of humanity is facing. Watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt & road initiative × WION: So my last question to you is soft power, South Korea's Soft power is well known K pop but India's focus also has been on its soft power. Your embassy here was in the news for the Natu Natu song. What's your view about a soft power and of course Natu Natu.. Park Jin: I love Indian Bollywood movies. I've seen many movies myself, and Rise, Row and Revolt with Natu Natu dancing and singing, it is a fantastic culture of India. Many Koreans appreciate this wonderful culture of your country. And also I know many young Indians are interested in Korean K Pop, K music, K drama, K movie and K food. So we need to exchange our cultural assets between our two countries, so that we can move forward to the future. So Korea and India have great potential to develop together. WION: Few words in Hindi... Park Jin: I have to remember Namaste. Namaste, ap logon se mil kar acha laga, mera name Park Jin hai, mai Korea ka foreign minister hun. (Hi, great to meet you, my name is Park Jin and I am the foreign minister of South Korea). 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, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION

China is considering establishing a radar facility in Sri Lanka to keep an eye on India's actions in the Indian Ocean region as well as critical assets in the country's southern region, such as the Kudankulam and Kalpakkam nuclear power facilities.

China working to set up radar system in Dondra bay

<p>The Indian government gave a go-ahead to Rs 2,600-crore project on Thursday for setting up a Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory-India (LIGO-India) in the Aundha area of Hingol district in Maharashtra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The observatory is being designed to detect gravitational waves, which are ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects, such as plants and stars.</p>

<p>The first detection of gravitational waves was made by US-based LIGO on September 14, 2015. LIGO has detected numerous other gravitational waves. These detections have confirmed some of the predictions of Einstein's theory of general relativity and provided a new way to study the universe.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-korea-natural-partners-held-substantive-talks-with-eam-south-korean-foreign-minister-park-jin-to-wion-580323">India, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION</a></p>

<p>LIGO-India will be located about 450km east of Mumbai. The set-up is expected to be completed by 2030.</p>

<p>Union Space and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said LIGO-India&nbsp;will&nbsp;aid in a more thorough knowledge of gravitational waves as well as other celestial phenomena like neutron stars and black holes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>174 acres of land have been been acquired&nbsp;for LIGO-India. The&nbsp;project has also&nbsp;received environmental approval, and a geotechnical survey has been completed. An empowered board will be established to oversee the project.</p>

<h2><strong>A landmark moment for India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is the first-ever cutting-edge facility of this size being&nbsp;constructed in India.&nbsp;One such facility that has been planned in India, the Neutrino Observatory, has had difficulties. So, LIGO-India&nbsp;is essential for proving India's might&nbsp;to take&nbsp;difficult scientific initiatives independently.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-aides-to-hire-laura-loomer-an-anti-muslims-for-campaign-role-580360">Trump asks aides to hire Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim, for campaign role</a></p>

<h2><strong>Collaboration with US LIGO observatories&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the US, there are already two such LIGO observatories. The third such cutting-edge gravitational-wave observatory will be LIGO-India. A group of Indian research institutes and the LIGO Laboratory in the United States, together with its worldwide collaborators, are planning to work together on the project. Key lab components worth $80 million, or Rs 560 crore, would be supplied by the US.</p>

<p>In February 2016, the government granted in-principle clearance to LIGO-India. Since then, the project has accomplished a number of significant milestones on the way to choosing and&nbsp;acquiring the land for the&nbsp;observatory.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants</strong></p>

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<p>The Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology will construct the LIGO-India project with the help of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Science Foundation, US, as well as other national and international research and academic institutes. A UGC independent body will assist with the project as well. Components for the project will be provided by Indian businesses. In order to maximise the scientific yield, LIGO-India will be controlled and maintained scientifically in conjunction with the US LIGO detectors once it is operational.</p>


The Indian government gave a go-ahead to Rs 2,600-crore project on Thursday for setting up a Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory-India (LIGO-India) in the Aundha area of Hingol district in Maharashtra.

The Indian government gave a go-ahead to Rs 2,600-crore project on Thursday for setting up a Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory-India (LIGO-India) in the Aundha area of Hingol district in Maharashtra. The observatory is being designed to detect gravitational waves, which are ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects, such as plants and stars. The first detection of gravitational waves was made by US-based LIGO on September 14, 2015. LIGO has detected numerous other gravitational waves. These detections have confirmed some of the predictions of Einstein's theory of general relativity and provided a new way to study the universe. Also Read | India, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION LIGO-India will be located about 450km east of Mumbai. The set-up is expected to be completed by 2030. Union Space and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said LIGO-India will aid in a more thorough knowledge of gravitational waves as well as other celestial phenomena like neutron stars and black holes. 174 acres of land have been been acquired for LIGO-India. The project has also received environmental approval, and a geotechnical survey has been completed. An empowered board will be established to oversee the project. A landmark moment for India This is the first-ever cutting-edge facility of this size being constructed in India. One such facility that has been planned in India, the Neutrino Observatory, has had difficulties. So, LIGO-India is essential for proving India's might to take difficult scientific initiatives independently. Also Read | Trump asks aides to hire Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim, for campaign role Collaboration with US LIGO observatories In the US, there are already two such LIGO observatories. The third such cutting-edge gravitational-wave observatory will be LIGO-India. A group of Indian research institutes and the LIGO Laboratory in the United States, together with its worldwide collaborators, are planning to work together on the project. Key lab components worth $80 million, or Rs 560 crore, would be supplied by the US. In February 2016, the government granted in-principle clearance to LIGO-India. Since then, the project has accomplished a number of significant milestones on the way to choosing and acquiring the land for the observatory. Watch | Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants × The Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology will construct the LIGO-India project with the help of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Science Foundation, US, as well as other national and international research and academic institutes. A UGC independent body will assist with the project as well. Components for the project will be provided by Indian businesses. In order to maximise the scientific yield, LIGO-India will be controlled and maintained scientifically in conjunction with the US LIGO detectors once it is operational.

In landmark move, India gives nod to LIGO observatory in Maharashtra to study gravitational waves

India's president, Droupadi Murmur, flew in a Sukhoi 30 MKI aircraft of the Indian Air Force, making her the third head of state overall and the second female head of state in India to do so.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu to fly in fighter jet

The South Korean foreign minister is on his first official visit to New Delhi. On Friday, South Korean foreign minister Park Jin held talks with his Indian counterpart Subhramanyam Jaishankar. Park held discussions on the Indo-Pacific.

S. Jaishankar holds bilateral meet with South Korean Foreign Minister | 50 years of diplomatic ties

On the show tonight, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari speaks on the remarkable achievements in India’s highways infrastructure and a special Salman Khan and Ram Charan union on Eid, Watch India Story with Vikram Chandra

Exclusive: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari talks on India's road construction

<p>India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness.&nbsp;The country presently has 25,587 active cases.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-backs-research-to-investigate-links-between-royal-family-and-slavery-579975">King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery</a></p>

<p>“The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States &amp; UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States &amp; UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar.</p>

<p>Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>COVID-19 deaths in India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-posing-as-fraud-prevention-specialist-dupes-many-us-elderly-gets-33-months-prison-term-579966">Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term</a></p>

<p>Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;daily positive rate&nbsp;is at&nbsp;3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years</strong></p>

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<p>Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged.</p>

<p>A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi COVID-19 cases&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. &nbsp;The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday.

India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year. Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19 With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness. The country presently has 25,587 active cases. Also Read | King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery “The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States & UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States & UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar. Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India. COVID-19 deaths in India According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943. Also Read | Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala. The daily positive rate is at 3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged. A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered. Delhi COVID-19 cases According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August. On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing. (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 records over 6,000 new Covid cases, Centre to hold high-level meet

<p>India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday.</p>

<p>The abrupt increase in India's Covid graph is due to the spread of Omicron variant XBB.1.16, according to the experts. Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 is being closely monitored by the World Health Organisation (WHO).</p>

<p>On March 22, the Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 was added by WHO to its list of variants.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-new-covid-cases-cross-5000-mark-in-last-24-hours-a-20-pc-increase-from-yesterday-579650">India: New Covid cases cross 5,000 mark in last 24 hours, highest in 195 days</a></p>

<p>"In India, XBB.1.16 has replaced the other variants that are in circulation. So this is one to watch," stated WHO's COVID-19 technical lead Maria Van Kerkhove during a media conference.</p>

<p>Symptoms of Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 include a fever that gradually increases and continues for 1-2 days, headaches, bodily soreness, abdominal discomfort and sore throat.</p>

<p>As of now, XBB.1.16 has not been seen causing any severe health issues to patients. However, people with respiratory conditions and underlying health concerns are advised to use extreme caution.</p>

<p>According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's circular, patients suffering from COVID-19 must remain in home isolation.</p>

<p>For those infected with the virus, hand hygiene, symptomatic management (hydration, antipyretics, antitussive), physical distancing and indoor mask use are some of the must-dos. Furthermore, the patients must continuously monitor their oxygen saturation and temperature.</p>

<p>Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) Director Dr SK Sarin, while speaking to NDTV, said that traces of the XBB.1.16 variant have been found in at least 98 per cent of the samples taken from COVID-19 patients in New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Chinese Government scientists claim infamous Wuhan market may NOT be source of Covid pandemic</strong></p>

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<p>He added that the XBB.1.16 variant is not very lethal, however, it is quickly spreading.</p>

<p>"Despite the rise in infections, deaths have been low. Cough and cold are among the common symptoms found in patients infected with the XBB.1.16 variant," he stated.</p>

<p>Dr Sarin further advised people who are overweight or with comorbidities to take proper precautions so that they do not catch the virus. He further advised that those who have not yet taken their booster dosage must get the jab.</p>

<p>"Those who have been infected with the virus may face lung, heart, kidney and brain may face complications for a long time," he said.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday.

India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday. The abrupt increase in India's Covid graph is due to the spread of Omicron variant XBB.1.16, according to the experts. Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 is being closely monitored by the World Health Organisation (WHO). On March 22, the Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 was added by WHO to its list of variants. ALSO READ | India: New Covid cases cross 5,000 mark in last 24 hours, highest in 195 days "In India, XBB.1.16 has replaced the other variants that are in circulation. So this is one to watch," stated WHO's COVID-19 technical lead Maria Van Kerkhove during a media conference. Symptoms of Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 include a fever that gradually increases and continues for 1-2 days, headaches, bodily soreness, abdominal discomfort and sore throat. As of now, XBB.1.16 has not been seen causing any severe health issues to patients. However, people with respiratory conditions and underlying health concerns are advised to use extreme caution. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's circular, patients suffering from COVID-19 must remain in home isolation. For those infected with the virus, hand hygiene, symptomatic management (hydration, antipyretics, antitussive), physical distancing and indoor mask use are some of the must-dos. Furthermore, the patients must continuously monitor their oxygen saturation and temperature. Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) Director Dr SK Sarin, while speaking to NDTV, said that traces of the XBB.1.16 variant have been found in at least 98 per cent of the samples taken from COVID-19 patients in New Delhi. WATCH | Chinese Government scientists claim infamous Wuhan market may NOT be source of Covid pandemic He added that the XBB.1.16 variant is not very lethal, however, it is quickly spreading. "Despite the rise in infections, deaths have been low. Cough and cold are among the common symptoms found in patients infected with the XBB.1.16 variant," he stated. Dr Sarin further advised people who are overweight or with comorbidities to take proper precautions so that they do not catch the virus. He further advised that those who have not yet taken their booster dosage must get the jab. "Those who have been infected with the virus may face lung, heart, kidney and brain may face complications for a long time," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Covid variant XBB1.16 leads to spike in cases. Know its symptoms and precautions

On Tuesday, private rocket maker Skyroot Aerospace said it had successfully test-fired its 3D-printed cryogenic engine called Dhawan-II for 200 seconds. According to Skyroot Aerospace, the test was done at Solar Industries propulsion test facility in Nagpur, Maharashtra, using the company's indigenously developed mobile cryogenic engine test pad.

India: Skyroot Aerospace Successfully Test Fires its 3D-Printed Cryogenic Engine

The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation. It plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture & governance. India holds the presidency of the G20 from 1 December 2022 to 30 November 2023. The G20 members represent around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. India's G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, speaks to WION.

'All G20 nations want India...': Amitabh Kant says Group of Twenty not a political forum

<p>An Indian national who posed as a fraud prevention specialist and defrauded senior citizens in the United States was given a 33-month prison term and was charged $2.4 million in fines, as per media reports citing US Department of Justice.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 29-year-old man Ashish Bajaj on 4&nbsp;August 2022&nbsp;pleaded&nbsp;guilty to the complaint charging him with conspiracy to conduct wire fraud before District Judge Kevin McNulty in Newark federal court.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-who-presided-over-trumps-arraignment-receives-multiple-threats-579962">Judge, who presided over Trump's arraignment, receives multiple threats</a></p>

<p>The Department of Justice said Thursday that he was sentenced to 33 months in prison and two years of supervised release. It also charged USD 2.4 million in restitution for his involvement in a global conspiracy that preyed on elderly victims in New Jersey and around the US.</p>

<p>According to documents, Bajaj and his cohorts preyed on senior victims throughout the US between April 2020 and August 2021 by posing as fraud prevention specialists for different banks, online shops, and online payment businesses.</p>

<p>Falsely claiming to be fraud protection specialists employed by respected businesses, they phoned victims and informed them that their bank accounts and online payment accounts were being targeted for fraud.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-army-says-its-striking-in-lebanon-after-carrying-out-strikes-in-gaza-strip-579956">Israeli army strikes Lebanon as promised retaliatory measure</a></p>

<p>Prosecutors claim that Bajaj and his accomplices then misled the victims into believing that they were needed as part of a sting operation to apprehend the fraudsters.</p>

<p>Firstly, they urged the elderly to transfer funds from their bank accounts to the accounts they controlled. Later, they fraudulently promised to repay the elderly victims' money within a few days following the alleged sting operation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years</strong></p>

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<p>The victims were also misled into believing that the sting operation would result in the arrest of the alleged offenders after they submitted the money. The elderly sent money to several banks in India, China, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates as international wire transactions, according to court records.</p>

<p>Also, the victims sent funds to Bajaj's American bank accounts with the help of an online application. In addition to that, the elderly victims sent cash and cheques to Bajaj at a Californian location. The records state that the plan caused losses of more than USD 250,000.&nbsp;</p>

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An Indian national who posed as a fraud prevention specialist and defrauded senior citizens in the United States was given a 33-month prison term and was charged $2.

An Indian national who posed as a fraud prevention specialist and defrauded senior citizens in the United States was given a 33-month prison term and was charged $2.4 million in fines, as per media reports citing US Department of Justice. A 29-year-old man Ashish Bajaj on 4 August 2022 pleaded guilty to the complaint charging him with conspiracy to conduct wire fraud before District Judge Kevin McNulty in Newark federal court. Also Read | Judge, who presided over Trump's arraignment, receives multiple threats The Department of Justice said Thursday that he was sentenced to 33 months in prison and two years of supervised release. It also charged USD 2.4 million in restitution for his involvement in a global conspiracy that preyed on elderly victims in New Jersey and around the US. According to documents, Bajaj and his cohorts preyed on senior victims throughout the US between April 2020 and August 2021 by posing as fraud prevention specialists for different banks, online shops, and online payment businesses. Falsely claiming to be fraud protection specialists employed by respected businesses, they phoned victims and informed them that their bank accounts and online payment accounts were being targeted for fraud. Also Read | Israeli army strikes Lebanon as promised retaliatory measure Prosecutors claim that Bajaj and his accomplices then misled the victims into believing that they were needed as part of a sting operation to apprehend the fraudsters. Firstly, they urged the elderly to transfer funds from their bank accounts to the accounts they controlled. Later, they fraudulently promised to repay the elderly victims' money within a few days following the alleged sting operation. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × The victims were also misled into believing that the sting operation would result in the arrest of the alleged offenders after they submitted the money. The elderly sent money to several banks in India, China, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates as international wire transactions, according to court records. Also, the victims sent funds to Bajaj's American bank accounts with the help of an online application. In addition to that, the elderly victims sent cash and cheques to Bajaj at a Californian location. The records state that the plan caused losses of more than USD 250,000. 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 posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term

<p>Apple Inc unveiled the design of its first retail store in India on Wednesday, as several people rushed to catch a glimpse of the store's black and yellow artwork inspired by Mumbai's renowned taxis.</p>

<p>The store is still barricaded and is expected to open this month, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2020, the Cupertino, California-based corporation opened an online retail store in India, the world's second-largest smartphone market.</p>

<h2><strong>Scope for Apple's growth in India</strong></h2>

<p>India is also becoming a manufacturing hub, with Taiwanese contract electronics makers Foxconn and Wistron Corp manufacturing several Apple products, including iPhones, in the country. Apple also intends to manufacture iPads and AirPods in India.</p>

<p>According to Counterpoint Research, Apple had&nbsp;a 4 per cent&nbsp;market share in India in 2022, behind Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo. Apple, on the other hand, reported a 35 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year increase in shipments, owing to high demand for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models.</p>

<p>Analysts anticipate that the Apple Store would improve Apple's brand image and customer loyalty in India, as well as draw more developers and creators to its ecosystem.</p>

<p>The announcement comes more than 20 years after the California-based company originally entered the Indian market through third-party dealers.</p>

<p>Apple said in a statement that the brightly lighted store was "inspired by the iconic Kaali Peeli taxi art unique to Mumbai," alluding to the city's decades-old yellow and black taxis.</p>

<p>On Wednesday evening, people were taking photographs and shooting videos on their iPhones outside the store, which had the Apple logo decked out in a variety of colours and a rendition of the iconic Apple greeting that said "Hello Mumbai."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Apple Inc unveiled the design of its first retail store in India on Wednesday, as several people rushed to catch a glimpse of the store's black and yellow artwork inspired by Mumbai's renowned taxis.

Apple Inc unveiled the design of its first retail store in India on Wednesday, as several people rushed to catch a glimpse of the store's black and yellow artwork inspired by Mumbai's renowned taxis. The store is still barricaded and is expected to open this month, as per Reuters. In 2020, the Cupertino, California-based corporation opened an online retail store in India, the world's second-largest smartphone market. Scope for Apple's growth in India India is also becoming a manufacturing hub, with Taiwanese contract electronics makers Foxconn and Wistron Corp manufacturing several Apple products, including iPhones, in the country. Apple also intends to manufacture iPads and AirPods in India. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple had a 4 per cent market share in India in 2022, behind Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo. Apple, on the other hand, reported a 35 per cent year-on-year increase in shipments, owing to high demand for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models. Analysts anticipate that the Apple Store would improve Apple's brand image and customer loyalty in India, as well as draw more developers and creators to its ecosystem. The announcement comes more than 20 years after the California-based company originally entered the Indian market through third-party dealers. Apple said in a statement that the brightly lighted store was "inspired by the iconic Kaali Peeli taxi art unique to Mumbai," alluding to the city's decades-old yellow and black taxis. On Wednesday evening, people were taking photographs and shooting videos on their iPhones outside the store, which had the Apple logo decked out in a variety of colours and a rendition of the iconic Apple greeting that said "Hello Mumbai." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Apple's first Indian retail store to be opened in Mumbai this month

Drones from Pakistan flying into India across the Line of Control and International Border have emerged as a huge challenge for India's Border Security Force. They bring in everything from arms to narcotics to fake currency that give rise to terror and lawlessness in India. The latest catch in Jammu last week is part of a phenomenon that grown worryingly over the last couple of years.

Pakistani drones cross India-Pak border

Natural gas produced from Indian government allotted fields will now be linked to crude oil prices instead of gas prices and nations such as the United States, Canada and Russia. India's new price mechanism is likely to cut piped natural gas prices by 10 percent and compressed natural gas prices by six to nine percent.

India tweaks natural gas pricing mechanism

India is looking to excel in the lucrative space business. It is also planning to overtake China and Russia in the space race. Will India win the space race? How has India sketched out its future in the space business? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is India emerging as a space leader?

India's Bank of Baroda has stopped clearing payments for Russian oil sold above the price cap set by the West. This is according to media sources that suggests that the move could expedite the process of paying for Russian oil in Indian rupees.

Indian bank adheres to sanctions on Russia

<p>India recorded 5,335 new cases of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours, with the active caseload rising up to 25,587, as per the Health Ministry. This is the highest number of daily new Covid cases in 195 days. The number of cases was close to 20 per cent higher than the previous day. A total of 335 new Covid-19 cases were reported in the nation during this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The weekly positivity rate is 2.89%, while the daily positivity rate is 3.32%. The results showed that the recovery rate is now 98.75%. In the past 24 hours, India had made 2,826 Covid-19 recoveries. It brought the total number of recoveries to 4,41,82,538.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chatgpt-can-propel-four-day-work-week-heres-what-nobel-prize-winning-economist-says-579621">ChatGPT can propel four-day work-week? Here's what Nobel Prize-winning economist says</a></p>

<p>India recorded 4,435 new cases of coronavirus infections a day earlier on Wednesday, marking the largest daily increase in 163 days. According to information from the Health Ministry, there were 23,091 active Covid-19 cases across the nation on Wednesday.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Delhi reported 509 new cases in a single day, above the 25% threshold for the Covid-19 positive rate. There were no new fatalities recorded, and the positive rate was 26.54 per cent, which was the highest in more than 15 months.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-says-us-south-korea-drills-driving-tensions-in-korean-peninsula-to-brink-of-nuclear-war-579606">North Korea says US-South Korea drills driving tensions in Korean Peninsula to 'brink of nuclear war'</a></p>

<p>The National Vaccination Drive has so far resulted in the administration of 220.66 crore total vaccine doses which includes 95.21 crore second doses and 22.87 crore precaution doses, as per the Health Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statistics showed that about 1,993 dosages were given out in the previous 24 hours. Around 1,60,742 Covid-19 detection tests were carried out in the last 24 hours and 92.23 crore tests have been carried out thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last few days, there has been an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in India. The number of daily new infections is now ranging from 2,994 on April 1 to 3,824 on April 2 and 3,641 on April 3 to 3038 on Tuesday.</p>

<p>In response to the growing COVID cases in India, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated on Monday that there is no cause for concern because the Omicron's sub-variant that is circulating has not witnessed increased hospitalisations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Is India emerging as a space leader?</strong></p>

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<p>However, at the same time, the minister urged to exercise caution and called for a need to remain vigilant. "We need to remain alert but there is no need to worry. Currently, the sub-variant of Omicron which is circulating in the country hasn`t increased hospitalisations," Mandaviya said.</p>

<p>In a revised guideline, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said, "Antibiotics should not be used unless there is clinical suspicion of bacterial infection. The possibility of coinfection of COVID-19 with other endemic infections must be considered. Systemic corticosteroids are not indicated in mild disease."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Antibiotics should not be used unless there is clinical suspicion of bacterial infection. The possibility of coinfection of COVID-19 with other endemic infections must be considered. Systemic corticosteroids are not indicated in mild disease," it&nbsp;added.&nbsp;India had its first-ever national lockdown in March 2020.<br />
The Indian government had since launched several initiatives to address the COVID-19 challenges, including ramping up vaccine production and launching public awareness campaigns to promote vaccine uptake.</p>

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India recorded 5,335 new cases of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours, with the active caseload rising up to 25,587, as per the Health Ministry. This is the highest number of daily new Covid cases in 195 days.

India recorded 5,335 new cases of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours, with the active caseload rising up to 25,587, as per the Health Ministry. This is the highest number of daily new Covid cases in 195 days. The number of cases was close to 20 per cent higher than the previous day. A total of 335 new Covid-19 cases were reported in the nation during this time. The weekly positivity rate is 2.89%, while the daily positivity rate is 3.32%. The results showed that the recovery rate is now 98.75%. In the past 24 hours, India had made 2,826 Covid-19 recoveries. It brought the total number of recoveries to 4,41,82,538. Also Read | ChatGPT can propel four-day work-week? Here's what Nobel Prize-winning economist says India recorded 4,435 new cases of coronavirus infections a day earlier on Wednesday, marking the largest daily increase in 163 days. According to information from the Health Ministry, there were 23,091 active Covid-19 cases across the nation on Wednesday. On Wednesday, Delhi reported 509 new cases in a single day, above the 25% threshold for the Covid-19 positive rate. There were no new fatalities recorded, and the positive rate was 26.54 per cent, which was the highest in more than 15 months. Also Read | North Korea says US-South Korea drills driving tensions in Korean Peninsula to 'brink of nuclear war' The National Vaccination Drive has so far resulted in the administration of 220.66 crore total vaccine doses which includes 95.21 crore second doses and 22.87 crore precaution doses, as per the Health Ministry. The statistics showed that about 1,993 dosages were given out in the previous 24 hours. Around 1,60,742 Covid-19 detection tests were carried out in the last 24 hours and 92.23 crore tests have been carried out thus far. In the last few days, there has been an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in India. The number of daily new infections is now ranging from 2,994 on April 1 to 3,824 on April 2 and 3,641 on April 3 to 3038 on Tuesday. In response to the growing COVID cases in India, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stated on Monday that there is no cause for concern because the Omicron's sub-variant that is circulating has not witnessed increased hospitalisations. Watch | Gravitas: Is India emerging as a space leader? × However, at the same time, the minister urged to exercise caution and called for a need to remain vigilant. "We need to remain alert but there is no need to worry. Currently, the sub-variant of Omicron which is circulating in the country hasn`t increased hospitalisations," Mandaviya said. In a revised guideline, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said, "Antibiotics should not be used unless there is clinical suspicion of bacterial infection. The possibility of coinfection of COVID-19 with other endemic infections must be considered. Systemic corticosteroids are not indicated in mild disease." "Antibiotics should not be used unless there is clinical suspicion of bacterial infection. The possibility of coinfection of COVID-19 with other endemic infections must be considered. Systemic corticosteroids are not indicated in mild disease," it added. India had its first-ever national lockdown in March 2020. The Indian government had since launched several initiatives to address the COVID-19 challenges, including ramping up vaccine production and launching public awareness campaigns to promote vaccine uptake. 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: New Covid cases cross 5,000 mark in last 24 hours, highest in 195 days

<p>The Kerala High Court on Thursday ordered the capture, radio-collaring, and translocation of Arikomban, a rogue wild elephant wreaking havoc in the Chinnakanal and Shanthanpara regions of Idukki district.</p>

<p>The court has also instructed the district collector of Idukki to personally oversee the tusker's transfer to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.</p>

<p>An expert committee appointed by the High Court to recommend steps to keep Arikomban from roaming among human settlements released a report advocating the animal's capture and translocation.</p>

<p>The HC said, “No celebrations or beating of drums or bursting of crackers shall be allowed anywhere near the animal after its capture or during its transport.”</p>

<p>The Kerala High Court had rejected the plea of the forest department to tranquilise and capture the wild elephant on March 29.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Kerala High Court scheduled a special night session for the first time to hear petitions from campaigners to preserve the rights of wild animals and to halt an operation to capture Arikomban, a wild elephant, till March 29.</p>

<p>Kerala's forest department had planned to employ four Kumki elephants, Kunju, Konni Surendran, Suryan, and Vikram, to catch 'Arikomban,' the rogue&nbsp;wild elephant causing havoc in the Chinnakanal and Shanthanpara region, a hilly section of Kerala's Idukki district. Arikomban was given the name of a wild tusker. (Ari: rice, Kombam: tusker).</p>

<p>The decision was reached by a division bench comprised of Justices AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and P Gopinath.<br />
<br />
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The Kerala High Court on Thursday ordered the capture, radio-collaring, and translocation of Arikomban, a rogue wild elephant wreaking havoc in the Chinnakanal and Shanthanpara regions of Idukki district.

The Kerala High Court on Thursday ordered the capture, radio-collaring, and translocation of Arikomban, a rogue wild elephant wreaking havoc in the Chinnakanal and Shanthanpara regions of Idukki district. The court has also instructed the district collector of Idukki to personally oversee the tusker's transfer to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. An expert committee appointed by the High Court to recommend steps to keep Arikomban from roaming among human settlements released a report advocating the animal's capture and translocation. The HC said, “No celebrations or beating of drums or bursting of crackers shall be allowed anywhere near the animal after its capture or during its transport.” The Kerala High Court had rejected the plea of the forest department to tranquilise and capture the wild elephant on March 29. Earlier, the Kerala High Court scheduled a special night session for the first time to hear petitions from campaigners to preserve the rights of wild animals and to halt an operation to capture Arikomban, a wild elephant, till March 29. Kerala's forest department had planned to employ four Kumki elephants, Kunju, Konni Surendran, Suryan, and Vikram, to catch 'Arikomban,' the rogue wild elephant causing havoc in the Chinnakanal and Shanthanpara region, a hilly section of Kerala's Idukki district. Arikomban was given the name of a wild tusker. (Ari: rice, Kombam: tusker). The decision was reached by a division bench comprised of Justices AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and P Gopinath. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Court orders capture, radio-collaring, translocation of rogue elephant Arikomban

Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was in New Delhi this week. Talks PM Modi and President Draupadi Murmu underscored strong traditional bonds between India and Bhutan. Both sides agreed to carry forward deep-rooted ties. But there can be no missing a distinct worrying undercurrent - the Bhutan PM recently said China could be made a party to the Doklam dispute. Though he clarified later that there was no change in Bhutan's stand.

Will India-Bhutan ties be impacted by China-Doklam factor? | Inside South Asia

The Indian Army is now promoting the famous areas close to LoC such as Kaman Post in Uri sector of Baramulla district as a tourist spot. Kaman Aman Setu is a bridge that connects India to Pakistan and was opened for the historic cross-LoC Karawan-e-Aman bus service.

Indian Army promotes Kaman post as tourist attraction

The West is adamant that sanctions on Russia are working. However, Russian Oil continues to make its way to reach Europe indirectly. The sanctions were imposed against Russia in response to the war of aggression against Ukraine. The importers of Russian oil and the global oil market bore the brunt of these sanctions. Nations around the world looked for an alternative. India played a key role in filling the void in the global oil market.

How fuels from Russian oil are getting backdoor entry into Europe via India

<p>In a historic triumph, India was swiftly elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four-year term in a "competitive" election in which China and South Korea are still battling for the final Asia Pacific seat.</p>

<p>India received 46 out of 53 votes. A second candidate has yet to be determined between South Korea and China, and voting will resume later in the day for the remaining Asia Pacific States member.</p>

<p>Argentina, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Ukraine, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the United States of America were elected by acclamation for a four-year term beginning January 1, 2024.</p>

<p>“India elected to the highest UN statistical body for a 4-year term beginning on 1 January 2024! Congrats Team @IndiaUNNewYork for coming through so strongly in a competitive election,” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a tweet on Wednesday.</p>

<p>He went on to say that India's "expertise in statistics, diversity, and demography has earned it a seat on the UN Statistical Commission."</p>

<p>The current Asia-Pacific States members are Japan (2024), Samoa (2024), Kuwait, and the Republic of Korea, whose terms expire this year.</p>

<p>The United Nations statistics Commission, founded in 1947, is the highest organisation of the global statistics system, bringing together Chief Statisticians from all member countries.</p>

<p>It is the top decision-making organisation for international statistical activity, responsible for creating statistical standards and developing concepts and methodologies, as well as implementing them at the national and international levels.</p>

<p>The Commission is made up of 24 United Nations member countries chosen by the UN Economic and Social Council based on an equitable geographical distribution.</p>

<p>Five members are from African countries, four from Asia-Pacific countries, four from Eastern European countries, four from Latin American and Caribbean countries, and seven from Western European and other countries.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a historic triumph, India was swiftly elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four-year term in a "competitive" election in which China and South Korea are still battling for the final Asia Pacific seat.

In a historic triumph, India was swiftly elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four-year term in a "competitive" election in which China and South Korea are still battling for the final Asia Pacific seat. India received 46 out of 53 votes. A second candidate has yet to be determined between South Korea and China, and voting will resume later in the day for the remaining Asia Pacific States member. Argentina, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Ukraine, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the United States of America were elected by acclamation for a four-year term beginning January 1, 2024. “India elected to the highest UN statistical body for a 4-year term beginning on 1 January 2024! Congrats Team @IndiaUNNewYork for coming through so strongly in a competitive election,” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a tweet on Wednesday. He went on to say that India's "expertise in statistics, diversity, and demography has earned it a seat on the UN Statistical Commission." The current Asia-Pacific States members are Japan (2024), Samoa (2024), Kuwait, and the Republic of Korea, whose terms expire this year. The United Nations statistics Commission, founded in 1947, is the highest organisation of the global statistics system, bringing together Chief Statisticians from all member countries. It is the top decision-making organisation for international statistical activity, responsible for creating statistical standards and developing concepts and methodologies, as well as implementing them at the national and international levels. The Commission is made up of 24 United Nations member countries chosen by the UN Economic and Social Council based on an equitable geographical distribution. Five members are from African countries, four from Asia-Pacific countries, four from Eastern European countries, four from Latin American and Caribbean countries, and seven from Western European and other countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India elected to ‘highest’ UN statistical body for four-year term: Foreign minister

<p>India is leading the quest towards creation of greener supply chain by producing diamonds in labs. The country has recorded six-fold rise in the exports of lab-grown expensive gems in past three years, in what is about a $22 billion market across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lab-grown diamonds (LGD) witnessed a remarkable rise during the last three years and accounted for 7.5 per cent&nbsp;of the total polished diamond exports from India in the first nine months of FY2023, up from 1 per cent&nbsp;in FY2019, according to rating agency ICRA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has made sustained efforts to boost the production of lab-grown diamonds. Notably, Nirmala Sitharaman, the finance minister of world's fifth largest economy, during her annual budget speech this year, announced India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's intent in this direction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-diamond-tycoon-jatin-mehta-moves-uk-court-to-unfreeze-assets-worldwide-after-fraud-claims-526895">Report: Diamond tycoon Jatin Mehta moves UK court to unfreeze assets worldwide after fraud charges</a></strong></p>

<p>Sitharaman announced the reduction in customs duty on the seeds used in lab-grown diamond manufacturing. She also announced a grant to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to facilitate the growth of lab-grown diamonds in India. Following the announcements, a research grant of ₹242 crore over five years to IIT Madras was approved based on &nbsp;experience in diamond research by the institution, having developed many technologies for industry, space and defence sectors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Koh-i-noor diamond a 'symbol of conquest' in new display of Crown Jewels</strong></p>

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<p>"India is keen to move away from the contrived controversies by vested interests surrounding the naturally mined diamonds and create a market where the product could be matched with the mined diamonds and offered at a much lower rate," Shantanu Ray, author of 'Diamond Trail: How India Rose To Global Domination', wrote in an article published April 1, 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>What are Lab-grown diamonds?</strong></h2>

<p>Lab-grown diamonds are produced using specific technology which mimics the geological processes that grow natural diamonds. It is a process called Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) that involves putting a diamond seed in a sealed chamber filled with carbon-rich gas and heating to around 800C. The gas sticks on the seed, building up a diamond atom by atom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India accounts for 15 per cent of the global lab-grown diamonds production , official records say. The country produces about 3 million lab-grown diamonds each year. &nbsp;The country houses 90 per cent of the world’s diamond cutting and polishing units, making it the largest exporter of diamonds.</p>

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India is leading the quest towards creation of greener supply chain by producing diamonds in labs. The country has recorded six-fold rise in the exports of lab-grown expensive gems in past three years, in what is about a $22 billion market across the world.

India is leading the quest towards creation of greener supply chain by producing diamonds in labs. The country has recorded six-fold rise in the exports of lab-grown expensive gems in past three years, in what is about a $22 billion market across the world. Lab-grown diamonds (LGD) witnessed a remarkable rise during the last three years and accounted for 7.5 per cent of the total polished diamond exports from India in the first nine months of FY2023, up from 1 per cent in FY2019, according to rating agency ICRA. India has made sustained efforts to boost the production of lab-grown diamonds. Notably, Nirmala Sitharaman, the finance minister of world's fifth largest economy, during her annual budget speech this year, announced India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's intent in this direction. ALSO READ | Report: Diamond tycoon Jatin Mehta moves UK court to unfreeze assets worldwide after fraud charges Sitharaman announced the reduction in customs duty on the seeds used in lab-grown diamond manufacturing. She also announced a grant to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to facilitate the growth of lab-grown diamonds in India. Following the announcements, a research grant of ₹242 crore over five years to IIT Madras was approved based on experience in diamond research by the institution, having developed many technologies for industry, space and defence sectors. ALSO WATCH | Koh-i-noor diamond a 'symbol of conquest' in new display of Crown Jewels × "India is keen to move away from the contrived controversies by vested interests surrounding the naturally mined diamonds and create a market where the product could be matched with the mined diamonds and offered at a much lower rate," Shantanu Ray, author of 'Diamond Trail: How India Rose To Global Domination', wrote in an article published April 1, 2023. What are Lab-grown diamonds? Lab-grown diamonds are produced using specific technology which mimics the geological processes that grow natural diamonds. It is a process called Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) that involves putting a diamond seed in a sealed chamber filled with carbon-rich gas and heating to around 800C. The gas sticks on the seed, building up a diamond atom by atom. India accounts for 15 per cent of the global lab-grown diamonds production , official records say. The country produces about 3 million lab-grown diamonds each year. The country houses 90 per cent of the world’s diamond cutting and polishing units, making it the largest exporter of diamonds. 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 shines with record exports of lab-grown diamonds

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