Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

WION Speed News: Jaishankar meets counterparts from Brazil and Turkey

India's foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra held a press conference before the G20 Foreign ministers meet. Foreign ministers from around the world will attend the G20 Summit which is taking place in New Delhi.

Indian Foreign Secretary holds press conference ahead of G20 meet

India is likely to face a blistering summer after recording its hottest February since 1901. The south Asian country recorded an average maximum temperature of 29.5°c. @mohammed11saleh tells you more.

India's hottest February since 1901

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday was sent to a five-day custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) till March 4, in an alleged case of corruption relating to now-scrapped excise policy.

Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia sent to CBI custody till March 4

<p>The United Nations stated&nbsp;on February 23 that despite maternal death rates declining by a third in 20 years, a woman still dies every two minutes due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/02/1133802">UN</a>&nbsp;reported that rates reduced substantially between 2000 and 2015, but mostly stalled and even reversed in certain countries between 2016 and 2020.</p>

<p>Belarus saw the biggest fall, dropping 95.5 per cent, while Venezuela experienced the highest rise. The United States saw a significant increase between 2000 and 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The worldwide maternal mortality rate decreased by 34.3 per cent during a 20-year period, going from 339 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 223 maternal deaths in 2020, according to a report by the World Health Organization and other UN&nbsp;organisations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet, that implies that <strong>in 2020,</strong> <strong>almost&nbsp;800 women died every day, or one every two minutes</strong>.</p>

<p>"While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.</p>

<p>"These new statistics reveal the urgent need to ensure every woman and girl has access to critical health services... and that they can fully exercise their reproductive rights," she added.</p>

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<p>The poorest nations continue to have the highest rates of maternal mortality.</p>

<p>Around 70 per cent&nbsp;of those deaths recorded in 2020 were in sub-Saharan Africa, where the rate is "136 times bigger" than in Australia and New Zealand, the report's author Jenny Cresswell told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rates were more than double the world average in Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen, all of which are dealing with serious humanitarian crises.</p>

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<p>The most common causes of mortality are severe bleeding, infections, complications from botched abortions, and underlying diseases including HIV/AIDS, according to the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The WHO said it was&nbsp;"critical" that women have control over their reproductive health, notably about whether or not to have children. This gives women the ability to plan and space out childbearing in order to safeguard their health.</p>

<h2><strong>Where does India stand?</strong></h2>

<p>India's maternal mortality ratio (MMR), which measures the number of deaths per 100,000 live births, decreased from 103 deaths per lakh in 2017–2019 to 97 deaths per lakh in 2018–2020. The most recent statistics made available by the <a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1879912">Ministry of health and family welfare</a>&nbsp;show that this represents a significant improvement above the 130 deaths per lakh in the years 2014 to 2016.</p>

<p>Assam continues to have the highest MMR (195) in the area, but its own performance has improved with time.</p>

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<p>The MMR in the northeastern state was alarmingly high with 237 fatalities per one lakh live births between 2014 and 2016. According to statistics provided on November 28, 2022, this has improved over time, reaching 229 in 2015–2017, 215 in 2016–2018, and 205 in 2017–2019.</p>

<p>Kerala continues to do well in this respect, with a low MMR of 19 per one lakh live births.</p>

<p>The southern state continuously outperformed the nation as a whole and has nearly always decreased even that number, from 46 in 2014–2016, 42 in 2015–2017, 43 in 2016–2018, and 30 in 2017–2019.</p>

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The United Nations stated on February 23 that despite maternal death rates declining by a third in 20 years, a woman still dies every two minutes due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth.

The United Nations stated on February 23 that despite maternal death rates declining by a third in 20 years, a woman still dies every two minutes due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth. The UN reported that rates reduced substantially between 2000 and 2015, but mostly stalled and even reversed in certain countries between 2016 and 2020. Belarus saw the biggest fall, dropping 95.5 per cent, while Venezuela experienced the highest rise. The United States saw a significant increase between 2000 and 2015. The worldwide maternal mortality rate decreased by 34.3 per cent during a 20-year period, going from 339 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 223 maternal deaths in 2020, according to a report by the World Health Organization and other UN organisations. Yet, that implies that in 2020, almost 800 women died every day, or one every two minutes. "While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. "These new statistics reveal the urgent need to ensure every woman and girl has access to critical health services... and that they can fully exercise their reproductive rights," she added. × The poorest nations continue to have the highest rates of maternal mortality. Around 70 per cent of those deaths recorded in 2020 were in sub-Saharan Africa, where the rate is "136 times bigger" than in Australia and New Zealand, the report's author Jenny Cresswell told AFP. Rates were more than double the world average in Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen, all of which are dealing with serious humanitarian crises. The most common causes of mortality are severe bleeding, infections, complications from botched abortions, and underlying diseases including HIV/AIDS, according to the report. The WHO said it was "critical" that women have control over their reproductive health, notably about whether or not to have children. This gives women the ability to plan and space out childbearing in order to safeguard their health. Where does India stand? India's maternal mortality ratio (MMR), which measures the number of deaths per 100,000 live births, decreased from 103 deaths per lakh in 2017–2019 to 97 deaths per lakh in 2018–2020. The most recent statistics made available by the Ministry of health and family welfare show that this represents a significant improvement above the 130 deaths per lakh in the years 2014 to 2016. Assam continues to have the highest MMR (195) in the area, but its own performance has improved with time. × The MMR in the northeastern state was alarmingly high with 237 fatalities per one lakh live births between 2014 and 2016. According to statistics provided on November 28, 2022, this has improved over time, reaching 229 in 2015–2017, 215 in 2016–2018, and 205 in 2017–2019. Kerala continues to do well in this respect, with a low MMR of 19 per one lakh live births. The southern state continuously outperformed the nation as a whole and has nearly always decreased even that number, from 46 in 2014–2016, 42 in 2015–2017, 43 in 2016–2018, and 30 in 2017–2019. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | A wake-up call: One woman dies every 2 minutes in pregnancy, childbirth: UN

India’s economic expansion likely slowed in the October-December period, as rising borrowing costs crimp consumption that’s a key growth driver. Gross domestic product probably rose 4.7% last quarter from a year ago, according to a median estimate of economists in a survey.

India's economy losing momentum on rate hikes

Security forces have killed two terrorists during an encounter in the Jammu and Kashmir's Awantipora town, days after targeted killing of yet another Kashmiri Pandit.

Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kashmir's Awantipora town

India is seeking to build a consensus and bridge the gap between the West and Russia ahead of the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi on March 1-2.

India aims for consensus, bridging gap at G20 foreign ministers meet

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<p>A 19-year-old boy died in the southern Indian state of Telangana while dancing during a wedding. The boy collapsed on the ground in the middle of his routine, with doctors suggesting that he may have suffered a cardiac arrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in Pardi village of Nirmal district, about 200 kilometres from the capital city of Hyderabad. The entire episode was caught on video which has since gone viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, the boy, wearing black trousers, white shirt and a vest can be seen joyfully dancing to the song playing in the background. He looks perfectly fine while putting on a show as his friends cheer around.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/celebratory-gunshots-gone-wrong-man-dies-of-heart-attack-after-shooting-guest-548770"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Celebratory gunshots gone wrong! Man dies of heart attack after shooting guest</strong></a></p>

<p>However, 40 seconds into the video, the boy hunches forward and a few seconds later collapses face-first into the ground. The friends around think that it is part of the dance routine and cheer him. But the boy lies there unconscious.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A 19-year-old boy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/suddenly?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#suddenly</a> collapsed while dancing. It was known that it was a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/heartattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#heartattack</a> . This incident happened in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nirmal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nirmal</a> District, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Telangana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Telangana</a> .<br />
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Why are people collapsing due to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/heartattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#heartattack</a> in all corners of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/country?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#country</a>? Some of them are dying at a very <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/young?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#young</a> age... <a href="https://t.co/vy0Wy74ybN">pic.twitter.com/vy0Wy74ybN</a></p>
— Sunil Veer (@sunilveer08) <a href="https://twitter.com/sunilveer08/status/1629914075621912577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The boy was rushed to the Bhainsa Area hospital but it was too late as the doctors declared him dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netizens who watched the video were in shock as most commented that such incidents had become a regular occurrence in recent times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fourth such incident in a week!!! What is happening?" said one Twitter user while another added, "That’s what Covid does to you."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-legacy-of-the-wuhan-virus-heart-attacks-and-long-covid-491125"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Legacy of the Wuhan virus: Heart attacks and long covid</strong></a></p>

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<p>Last week, in a similar incident, 40-year-old Mohammad Rabbani died during a wedding function when applying turmeric on the groom. Rabbani was laughing and cracking jokes before he suffered a cardiac arrest and collapsed on the floor. The video of the incident was also caught on camera.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, in another incident to have been reported in Telangana, a labourer nearly lost his life while attempting to catch a bus. He felt a sudden bout of pain in his chest area and instantly collapsed. Fortunately, an on-duty traffic cop present at the spot gave him CPR and saved his life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A 19-year-old boy died in the southern Indian state of Telangana while dancing during a wedding. The boy collapsed on the ground in the middle of his routine, with doctors suggesting that he may have suffered a cardiac arrest.

A 19-year-old boy died in the southern Indian state of Telangana while dancing during a wedding. The boy collapsed on the ground in the middle of his routine, with doctors suggesting that he may have suffered a cardiac arrest. The incident took place in Pardi village of Nirmal district, about 200 kilometres from the capital city of Hyderabad. The entire episode was caught on video which has since gone viral on social media platforms. In the video, the boy, wearing black trousers, white shirt and a vest can be seen joyfully dancing to the song playing in the background. He looks perfectly fine while putting on a show as his friends cheer around. Read more: Celebratory gunshots gone wrong! Man dies of heart attack after shooting guest However, 40 seconds into the video, the boy hunches forward and a few seconds later collapses face-first into the ground. The friends around think that it is part of the dance routine and cheer him. But the boy lies there unconscious. A 19-year-old boy #suddenly collapsed while dancing. It was known that it was a #heartattack . This incident happened in #Nirmal District, #Telangana . Why are people collapsing due to #heartattack in all corners of the #country? Some of them are dying at a very #young age... pic.twitter.com/vy0Wy74ybN — Sunil Veer (@sunilveer08) February 26, 2023 × The boy was rushed to the Bhainsa Area hospital but it was too late as the doctors declared him dead. Netizens who watched the video were in shock as most commented that such incidents had become a regular occurrence in recent times. "Fourth such incident in a week!!! What is happening?" said one Twitter user while another added, "That’s what Covid does to you." WATCH | Gravitas: Legacy of the Wuhan virus: Heart attacks and long covid × Last week, in a similar incident, 40-year-old Mohammad Rabbani died during a wedding function when applying turmeric on the groom. Rabbani was laughing and cracking jokes before he suffered a cardiac arrest and collapsed on the floor. The video of the incident was also caught on camera. On Friday, in another incident to have been reported in Telangana, a labourer nearly lost his life while attempting to catch a bus. He felt a sudden bout of pain in his chest area and instantly collapsed. Fortunately, an on-duty traffic cop present at the spot gave him CPR and saved his life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

VIDEO | 19-year-old Indian dies of cardiac arrest while dancing

<p>Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in&nbsp;2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Garcetti, who was put&nbsp;forth by US&nbsp;President Joseph Biden to serve as ambassador to India, suffered yet another setback when a prominent Republican Senator put a hold on his confirmation, citing him as one of several "questionable" nominees.</p>

<p>Six additional nominations were also put on hold by Senator Marco Rubio, including that of Richard Verma, a former US ambassador to India, just days prior&nbsp;to a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that was set for Tuesday. The confirmation procedures for Garcetti, Verma, and others would have to be postponed indefinitely until the problem is fixed, even though the Committee hearing may still go on, as reported by the Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden and Garcetti: Political allies&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In July 2021, Garcetti was named as the White House's choice for India, but his appointment was delayed due to charges of sexual harassment against his aide Rick Jacobs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The appointment of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the United States ambassador to India was originally announced by President Joe Biden in May 2021, according to news organisation Axios.</p>

<p>Garcetti, 50, served as co-chair of Biden's election campaign and is still one of the President's most significant political allies. He was supposed to be a member of Biden's cabinet, but the scandal surrounding Rick Jacobs is alleged to have derailed those plans, as per AFP reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-makes-big-claim-on-covid-19-demands-aid-cut-to-communist-china-566630">Nikki Haley makes big claim on COVID-19, demands aid cut to 'communist' China</a></p>

<p>Subsequently, American political circles perceived the potential selection of Garcetti, the mayor of the country's second-largest city by population (after New York City), as India's ambassador as a reward for one of the president's steadfast political allies.</p>

<p>Garcetti, who had three years prior given the idea of running for president some thought, backed Biden for the 2020 Democratic candidature on January 9, 2020. The selection committee to choose the presumed Democratic nominee's running mate picked Garcetti at the end of April of last year.</p>

<p>He was named as a candidate for the Biden Administration's position of secretary of transportation in November 2020. Black Lives Matter organised large-scale demonstrations against the nomination in Los Angeles, and Mayor Garcetti revealed that he had declined a job offer from Vice President-elect Biden without going into further detail, as reported by the&nbsp;Indian Express.</p>

<p>In March 2017, Garcetti was re-elected mayor for a five-and-a-half-year term. The election to choose his successor was set to take place in the fall of 2022. He is only permitted to serve two terms in office per local legislation. Los Angeles' mayor at the moment is a Democrat named Karen Bass.</p>

<h2><strong>The controversy surrounding Garcetti</strong></h2>

<p>A former bodyguard, Matthew Garza, filed a sexual harassment case against Jacobs that damaged Garcetti's chances for a Cabinet position before and the ambassadorial position currently.</p>

<p>While Garcetti was the mayor of Los Angeles from 2013 until 2022, Jacobs was his aide. According to reports, Jacobs gave people unsolicited hugs, massages, and lewd sex banter, as reported by the Week.</p>

<p>Further claims against Jacobs surfaced in various press reports and deposition testimony, after which more people have come forward to level similar charges against him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/in-the-us-yet-more-evidence-of-growing-indian-american-clout-566629">In the US, yet more evidence of growing Indian-American clout</a></p>

<p>Garcetti has said that he was unaware of Jacobs' sexual misconduct and has testified under oath in front of the Senate to this effect. It was "extremely unlikely," according to a report written by Republican Senator Charles E. Grassley in May 2022, that Garcetti was oblivious of the aide's allegedly inappropriate behaviour.</p>

<p>The White House, however, stated that President Joe Biden backs Garcetti. “This partisan report was a hit job from the beginning, and many of the claims have already been conclusively debunked by more serious independent reports,” the White House said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Marco Rubio's stance</strong></h2>

<p>Republican US Senator Marco Rubio stated last week that he would also impose a hold on Garcetti due to the latter's ignorance of credible sexual assault allegations in his prior office, as reported by the Indian Express.</p>

<p>“I will not turn a blind eye to these absurd nominations, which will hasten America’s decline,” Rubio said in a statement on Friday. Rubio’s move will be another hurdle for Garcetti’s nomination, which had lapsed last year.</p>

<h2><strong>What next ?</strong></h2>

<p>The Senate's failure to appoint Biden's nominee for the position, Garcetti, has resulted in the vacancy in the position of US ambassador to India lasting for over two years.</p>

<p>Analysts have previously noted that the record-long vacancy occurs as US-India ties enter their "most critical phase," and that from America's standpoint, a long-term vision of the strategic partnership was needed, as reported by the Print.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also appears doubtful that Biden will withdraw Garcetti's nomination and propose a different candidate. The White House stated that Garcetti's nomination was a "priority" on December 15 and that it will continue to support him. This was one week after Democrats gained a majority in the Senate, the Print reported.&nbsp;</p>

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Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in 2021.

Eric Garcetti's candidature is expected to be heard on Tuesday (February 28) by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, more than a year after he was initially considered as a potential American ambassador to India in 2021. Garcetti, who was put forth by US President Joseph Biden to serve as ambassador to India, suffered yet another setback when a prominent Republican Senator put a hold on his confirmation, citing him as one of several "questionable" nominees. Six additional nominations were also put on hold by Senator Marco Rubio, including that of Richard Verma, a former US ambassador to India, just days prior to a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that was set for Tuesday. The confirmation procedures for Garcetti, Verma, and others would have to be postponed indefinitely until the problem is fixed, even though the Committee hearing may still go on, as reported by the Indian Express. Biden and Garcetti: Political allies In July 2021, Garcetti was named as the White House's choice for India, but his appointment was delayed due to charges of sexual harassment against his aide Rick Jacobs. The appointment of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the United States ambassador to India was originally announced by President Joe Biden in May 2021, according to news organisation Axios. Garcetti, 50, served as co-chair of Biden's election campaign and is still one of the President's most significant political allies. He was supposed to be a member of Biden's cabinet, but the scandal surrounding Rick Jacobs is alleged to have derailed those plans, as per AFP reports. ALSO READ | Nikki Haley makes big claim on COVID-19, demands aid cut to 'communist' China Subsequently, American political circles perceived the potential selection of Garcetti, the mayor of the country's second-largest city by population (after New York City), as India's ambassador as a reward for one of the president's steadfast political allies. Garcetti, who had three years prior given the idea of running for president some thought, backed Biden for the 2020 Democratic candidature on January 9, 2020. The selection committee to choose the presumed Democratic nominee's running mate picked Garcetti at the end of April of last year. He was named as a candidate for the Biden Administration's position of secretary of transportation in November 2020. Black Lives Matter organised large-scale demonstrations against the nomination in Los Angeles, and Mayor Garcetti revealed that he had declined a job offer from Vice President-elect Biden without going into further detail, as reported by the Indian Express. In March 2017, Garcetti was re-elected mayor for a five-and-a-half-year term. The election to choose his successor was set to take place in the fall of 2022. He is only permitted to serve two terms in office per local legislation. Los Angeles' mayor at the moment is a Democrat named Karen Bass. The controversy surrounding Garcetti A former bodyguard, Matthew Garza, filed a sexual harassment case against Jacobs that damaged Garcetti's chances for a Cabinet position before and the ambassadorial position currently. While Garcetti was the mayor of Los Angeles from 2013 until 2022, Jacobs was his aide. According to reports, Jacobs gave people unsolicited hugs, massages, and lewd sex banter, as reported by the Week. Further claims against Jacobs surfaced in various press reports and deposition testimony, after which more people have come forward to level similar charges against him. ALSO READ | In the US, yet more evidence of growing Indian-American clout Garcetti has said that he was unaware of Jacobs' sexual misconduct and has testified under oath in front of the Senate to this effect. It was "extremely unlikely," according to a report written by Republican Senator Charles E. Grassley in May 2022, that Garcetti was oblivious of the aide's allegedly inappropriate behaviour. The White House, however, stated that President Joe Biden backs Garcetti. “This partisan report was a hit job from the beginning, and many of the claims have already been conclusively debunked by more serious independent reports,” the White House said. Marco Rubio's stance Republican US Senator Marco Rubio stated last week that he would also impose a hold on Garcetti due to the latter's ignorance of credible sexual assault allegations in his prior office, as reported by the Indian Express. “I will not turn a blind eye to these absurd nominations, which will hasten America’s decline,” Rubio said in a statement on Friday. Rubio’s move will be another hurdle for Garcetti’s nomination, which had lapsed last year. What next ? The Senate's failure to appoint Biden's nominee for the position, Garcetti, has resulted in the vacancy in the position of US ambassador to India lasting for over two years. Analysts have previously noted that the record-long vacancy occurs as US-India ties enter their "most critical phase," and that from America's standpoint, a long-term vision of the strategic partnership was needed, as reported by the Print. It also appears doubtful that Biden will withdraw Garcetti's nomination and propose a different candidate. The White House stated that Garcetti's nomination was a "priority" on December 15 and that it will continue to support him. This was one week after Democrats gained a majority in the Senate, the Print reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | What is the controversy surrounding Eric Garcetti? Biden's pick for US envoy to India

Since February 16, the Sensex index has decreased by 2,031.16 points, or 3.31 percent, and all the businesses listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) have seen a decline in market value of more than $120 billion, or 26%.

Indian Stocks Meltdown: $120 billion wiped out in seven days

India’s greater visibility on the world stage in recent years and its refusal to take sides in the Ukraine war amid a major power rivalry are likely why Southeast Asian countries increasingly view New Delhi as a strategic partner.

India's growing stature on Global stage

Lithuania looks to build bridges with India in high-tech and manufacturing says Lithuanian Vice Minister for economy Karolis Zemaitis while speaking to WION's Siddhant Sibbal.

'We are looking to cooperate with India', says Lithuanian Vice Minister Karolis Zemaitis

In pics | Delhi hosts vintage vehicles rally ahead of G20 summit

<p>In an exclusive interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lithuania's Vice Minister for Economy and Innovation, Karolis Žemaitis, expressed his country's intention to build bridges with India in high-tech, manufacturing, life sciences, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). He said, "I think both of our both of our countries are very advanced in technology. And we can find the ways how we can work together for you to benefit in Europe and for us to benefit in Asia and Indo-Pacific region."</p>

<p>The conversation also touched upon the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, India's leadership role in the G20, Lithuania's support for Ukraine's membership in NATO and the EU, and the potential for innovation and investment cooperation between India and Lithuania.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> <strong>With me is the vice minister for economy and innovation of Lithuania. What is the focus of your India visit?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis:</strong> Our focus is to build bridges between Lithuania and India in high-tech, manufacturing, life sciences and ICT. We might be different in our sizes with a three million population in Europe. But we are the same in our ambition for growth. And I think my main intention is to build these bridges.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: So one of the key focus areas for global geopolitics today is the Russia-Ukraine conflict. How has that concept impacted Europe, specifically your country?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis: </strong>Well, I think everyone is now even more determined to defend the democratic values, the rule of law and our way of life. We are of course, very serious about the situation that is happening in Ukraine. But it is not changing our determination for democracy and we're working together with our European friends and allies together to defend our values if needed, and to support Ukraine in their war against Russia, the aggressor. And it sends a very strong message to everyone around the world that you know, we, the democracies, have to stick together to defend the values.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: India is the president of the G 20 grouping this year. How do you see India playing a role when it comes to the resolution of the conflict, especially as the chair of the grouping?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis: </strong>Well, I think India plays an important role. It's the biggest democracy in the world. So of course, it has the mandate, to represent democratic values and to represent values all around the world. So, for us, we see a lot of potential for India's leadership and India is already a global power in economics and in politics. And we really see that, especially in this region. India can play a role to show the true example of leadership in the region.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lithuania-our-presence-in-new-delhi-is-a-message-in-itself-505624"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Lithuania: 'Our presence in New Delhi is a message in itself'</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: And does your country supports Ukraine's membership for NATO?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis:</strong> Yes, our country supports the Ukrainian membership for NATO and European Union, as well as all the major reforms they have despite the war happening.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: So shifting gears to the Indo-Pacific region, you coming to Delhi from Taiwan, your relationship with Taiwan, your country's relationship with Taiwan, so do you think that you will be at the receiving end of the Chinese government?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis:</strong> Well, you know, our focus will in our relationship with Taiwan is economic. We are already having a lot of bilateral trade, and a lot of work together. And I was leading one of the biggest, the biggest delegation of Lithuanian industrialists in Taiwan, we had a lot of bilateral meetings. You know, when it comes to China, it's up to China to decide on its position.</p>

<p>But for us, it was never the intention to somehow interfere with the Chinese, with the Chinese way of politics. We intend to develop economic relations with Taiwan just like any other European country, or any country in the world.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: And your views when it comes to a very aggressive China. China has been aggressive with your country. It has been aggressive with India as well, especially on the northern border. So your view on the Chinese aggressiveness with India?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis: </strong>Well, I think you know, Lithuania is right now having a case in WTO with China, and this is a very good example of how I think the democracies have to stick together. And that is why I'm here in India. That is why we are looking for stable, reliable partners.</p>

<p>And of course, we are always looking to cooperate especially with India, especially with Japan. Korea, and other countries in the region. And we really see India as an emerging global power. And we rely on India's leadership, both political and economic when it comes to the balancing of powers in the region.</p>

<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: How do you see both countries working on innovation because this is something India has taken a lead on and especially in the backdrop of India, perhaps opening its embassy in your country later this year?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Karolis Žemaitis: </strong>I think you know, Lithuania and India are not competitors. We are co-creators, we can work together and have a win-win situation. Lithuania can be a gateway for Indian companies to European markets or 500 million people. And India can be a platform for Lithuanian companies to expand so I don't think we are in any sort of competition.</p>

<p>I think both countries are very advanced in technology. And we can find ways to work together for you [India] to benefit in Europe and for us to benefit in Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.</p>

<p>So that is why I'm really, confident about our technology and investment, cooperation. And that is why I'm meeting with the governmental representatives of India. I am also hoping for the Indian embassy to open in Lithuania, which will also boost our bilateral relationship.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In an exclusive interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lithuania's Vice Minister for Economy and Innovation, Karolis Žemaitis, expressed his country's intention to build bridges with India in high-tech, manufacturing, life sciences, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

In an exclusive interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lithuania's Vice Minister for Economy and Innovation, Karolis Žemaitis, expressed his country's intention to build bridges with India in high-tech, manufacturing, life sciences, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). He said, "I think both of our both of our countries are very advanced in technology. And we can find the ways how we can work together for you to benefit in Europe and for us to benefit in Asia and Indo-Pacific region." The conversation also touched upon the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, India's leadership role in the G20, Lithuania's support for Ukraine's membership in NATO and the EU, and the potential for innovation and investment cooperation between India and Lithuania. Sidhant Sibal: With me is the vice minister for economy and innovation of Lithuania. What is the focus of your India visit? Karolis Žemaitis: Our focus is to build bridges between Lithuania and India in high-tech, manufacturing, life sciences and ICT. We might be different in our sizes with a three million population in Europe. But we are the same in our ambition for growth. And I think my main intention is to build these bridges. Sidhant Sibal: So one of the key focus areas for global geopolitics today is the Russia-Ukraine conflict. How has that concept impacted Europe, specifically your country? Karolis Žemaitis: Well, I think everyone is now even more determined to defend the democratic values, the rule of law and our way of life. We are of course, very serious about the situation that is happening in Ukraine. But it is not changing our determination for democracy and we're working together with our European friends and allies together to defend our values if needed, and to support Ukraine in their war against Russia, the aggressor. And it sends a very strong message to everyone around the world that you know, we, the democracies, have to stick together to defend the values. Sidhant Sibal: India is the president of the G 20 grouping this year. How do you see India playing a role when it comes to the resolution of the conflict, especially as the chair of the grouping? Karolis Žemaitis: Well, I think India plays an important role. It's the biggest democracy in the world. So of course, it has the mandate, to represent democratic values and to represent values all around the world. So, for us, we see a lot of potential for India's leadership and India is already a global power in economics and in politics. And we really see that, especially in this region. India can play a role to show the true example of leadership in the region. WATCH | Lithuania: 'Our presence in New Delhi is a message in itself' × Sidhant Sibal: And does your country supports Ukraine's membership for NATO? Karolis Žemaitis: Yes, our country supports the Ukrainian membership for NATO and European Union, as well as all the major reforms they have despite the war happening. Sidhant Sibal: So shifting gears to the Indo-Pacific region, you coming to Delhi from Taiwan, your relationship with Taiwan, your country's relationship with Taiwan, so do you think that you will be at the receiving end of the Chinese government? Karolis Žemaitis: Well, you know, our focus will in our relationship with Taiwan is economic. We are already having a lot of bilateral trade, and a lot of work together. And I was leading one of the biggest, the biggest delegation of Lithuanian industrialists in Taiwan, we had a lot of bilateral meetings. You know, when it comes to China, it's up to China to decide on its position. But for us, it was never the intention to somehow interfere with the Chinese, with the Chinese way of politics. We intend to develop economic relations with Taiwan just like any other European country, or any country in the world. Sidhant Sibal: And your views when it comes to a very aggressive China. China has been aggressive with your country. It has been aggressive with India as well, especially on the northern border. So your view on the Chinese aggressiveness with India? Karolis Žemaitis: Well, I think you know, Lithuania is right now having a case in WTO with China, and this is a very good example of how I think the democracies have to stick together. And that is why I'm here in India. That is why we are looking for stable, reliable partners. And of course, we are always looking to cooperate especially with India, especially with Japan. Korea, and other countries in the region. And we really see India as an emerging global power. And we rely on India's leadership, both political and economic when it comes to the balancing of powers in the region. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see both countries working on innovation because this is something India has taken a lead on and especially in the backdrop of India, perhaps opening its embassy in your country later this year? Karolis Žemaitis: I think you know, Lithuania and India are not competitors. We are co-creators, we can work together and have a win-win situation. Lithuania can be a gateway for Indian companies to European markets or 500 million people. And India can be a platform for Lithuanian companies to expand so I don't think we are in any sort of competition. I think both countries are very advanced in technology. And we can find ways to work together for you [India] to benefit in Europe and for us to benefit in Asia and the Indo-Pacific region. So that is why I'm really, confident about our technology and investment, cooperation. And that is why I'm meeting with the governmental representatives of India. I am also hoping for the Indian embassy to open in Lithuania, which will also boost our bilateral relationship. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lithuania looks to build bridges with India in high-tech and manufacturing: Vice Minister Karolis Žemaitis

Manish Sisodia, the deputy chief minister of Delhi, was detained by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday over his alleged participation in the Delhi excise policy case, which came as a major shock to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling

A new Lithium reserve has been discovered in India’s Northern Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. What does this discovery spell for the country?

Gravitas Plus: New Lithium reserve in J&K | What does it mean for India?

<p>Citibank, one of India's oldest foreign lenders&nbsp;has taken down its signboard from its landmark Kanak Building office on Kolkata's Chowringhee road, as&nbsp;part of a rebranding effort following the sale of its consumer business to&nbsp;Axis Bank in 2021, reported Moneycontrol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Citibank representative who requested anonymity in order to discuss internal matters with Moneycontrol said the rebranding process had started. The merger will take place as of March 1, 2023, under the terms of the agreement.</p>

<p>“The existing Citi signboard at the Kanak Building office will be replaced by both Citi and Axis branding. But in some branches, they have completely replaced Citi with Axis Bank,’’ said the Citi official.</p>

<p>In reply to a query from Moneycontrol, Citibank stated that the signage change is a logical step in the already established process of transitioning our consumer banking locations to Axis.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer:</em>&nbsp;<em>WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</em></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Citibank and GM, both american - could not compete with the new gen competitors!<br />
<br />
What went wrong, would make a lovely case study(ies)!<br />
<br />
Do not believe in the BS talk of Citi's management that they are withdrawing from a market where per capita incomes are rising! <a href="https://t.co/0Ffk1wxan7">https://t.co/0Ffk1wxan7</a></p>
— Vijayanand Venkataraman, CFA (@vijayvenkatram) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayvenkatram/status/1629803381803061248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"There is no change or impact to services at any of our branches because of this change; also, customers have been informed well in advance," Citi bank's representative told Moneycontrol.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-bombay-alumni-develop-smartphone-based-health-kit-that-gives-results-in-30-seconds-report-566053">IIT Bombay alumni develop smartphone-based health test kit that gives results in 30 seconds: Report&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The Citibank official&nbsp;also stated that both banks are fully&nbsp;committed to ensuring that clients have a smooth transition and that they had&nbsp;informed them of this in&nbsp;prior communications.</p>

<p>Credit cards, retail banking, wealth management, and consumer loans are all included in Citi's agreement with Axis Bank for the sale of its consumer banking division, according to Citigroup.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-lays-off-over-100-robots-that-cleaned-cafeteria-tables-report-565835">After staff, Google now lays off over 100 robots that cleaned cafeterias: Report</a></p>

<p>The transaction also entails the sale of Citicorp Finance (India) Limited's consumer business, which includes the portfolio of personal loans as well as commercial vehicle and construction equipment loans.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Citibank, one of India's oldest foreign lenders has taken down its signboard from its landmark Kanak Building office on Kolkata's Chowringhee road, as part of a rebranding effort following the sale of its consumer business to Axis Bank in 2021, reported Moneycontrol.

Citibank, one of India's oldest foreign lenders has taken down its signboard from its landmark Kanak Building office on Kolkata's Chowringhee road, as part of a rebranding effort following the sale of its consumer business to Axis Bank in 2021, reported Moneycontrol. A Citibank representative who requested anonymity in order to discuss internal matters with Moneycontrol said the rebranding process had started. The merger will take place as of March 1, 2023, under the terms of the agreement. “The existing Citi signboard at the Kanak Building office will be replaced by both Citi and Axis branding. But in some branches, they have completely replaced Citi with Axis Bank,’’ said the Citi official. In reply to a query from Moneycontrol, Citibank stated that the signage change is a logical step in the already established process of transitioning our consumer banking locations to Axis. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Citibank and GM, both american - could not compete with the new gen competitors! What went wrong, would make a lovely case study(ies)! Do not believe in the BS talk of Citi's management that they are withdrawing from a market where per capita incomes are rising! https://t.co/0Ffk1wxan7 — Vijayanand Venkataraman, CFA (@vijayvenkatram) February 26, 2023 × "There is no change or impact to services at any of our branches because of this change; also, customers have been informed well in advance," Citi bank's representative told Moneycontrol. ALSO READ | IIT Bombay alumni develop smartphone-based health test kit that gives results in 30 seconds: Report The Citibank official also stated that both banks are fully committed to ensuring that clients have a smooth transition and that they had informed them of this in prior communications. Credit cards, retail banking, wealth management, and consumer loans are all included in Citi's agreement with Axis Bank for the sale of its consumer banking division, according to Citigroup. ALSO READ | After staff, Google now lays off over 100 robots that cleaned cafeterias: Report The transaction also entails the sale of Citicorp Finance (India) Limited's consumer business, which includes the portfolio of personal loans as well as commercial vehicle and construction equipment loans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Citibank removes signboard from landmark Kolkata office after 121 years as part of rebranding

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has arrived in India and his visit will focus on several areas including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed him at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrives in India, Prime Minister Modi welcomes him

At a Lahore festival, legendary Indian poet Javed Akhtar schools Pakistan on terrorism. Akhtar calls Pakistan out on the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, drawing loud cheers from his Pakistani audience and applause on the internet.

Inside South Asia: At a Lahore festival, Javed Akhtar schools Pakistan on terror

Guyana's Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo is visiting India, he spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal about the bilateral partnership in the energy sector and about India's role as G20 head.

Guyana Vice-Pres Bharrat Jagdeo talks to WION, says 'we are looking to learn quite a bit from India'

PM Modi: Russia-Ukraine dispute can be resolved via dialogue | India

According to a working paper by Stanford University and the Institute for Competitiveness, the Covid-19 vaccination programme in India was able to save 3.4 million lives and generate a net economic benefit of $15.4 billion by preventing losses. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Health Minister, presented the paper during his virtual address at the university's "The India Dialog."

Stanford Report: 3.4 MN lives saved through lockdown, vaccines | India

Finance chiefs of the world's largest economies strongly condemned Moscow for its war on Ukraine. Only China and Russia declined to sign a joint statement. India, chair of the group of twenty economies, was reluctant to raise the issue of the war.

G-20 finance meet, hosted by India, ends without a joint communique

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