China's 1980-enacted one-child policy formally ended in 2016. However, that is unlikely to stop the population reduction in the nation. UN projects China's population would reach 1.31 billion in 2050, a decrease of about 100 million from the 2021 peak. China's working population is also declining. China’s working-age population is projected to fall below 50% by 2045. With this, many are debating where India stands and the effects that the country's expanding population will have in light of China's dropping population rate.&nbsp;

<h2>India set to become the world's most populous country</h2>

China's population shrank in 2022 for the first time in more than 60 years which has increased the chance that India is all set to become the world's most populous nation in the coming months. What are the possible implications?&nbsp;Fertility rates in India, notably in rural regions, have just recently started to decline below replacement levels. The expansion of education, as well as, farm mechanisation and landholding fragmentation also had implications on India's population. The need for big families to farm the land has decreased due to smaller holdings and the need for less labour in agricultural operations. However, even with declining birth rates, it is predicted that India's population would only start to drop after reaching 1.7 billion in around 40 years.

The working-age population is more significant; its proportion of the total population barely exceeded 50% in 2007 and will peak at 57% by the middle of the 2030s. Overall, India has a window of opportunity to enjoy its "demographic dividend" long into the 2040s, much like China did from the late 1980s to up until 2015. The provision of meaningful work possibilities for a youthful population is absolutely necessary for this to happen; otherwise, the demographic dividend might easily turn into a demographic nightmare.

As per the National Bureau of Statistics, China's population dropped to 1,411.8 million in 2022. The previous year, China's population was 1,412.6 million. It is an important development as reportedly India will now be home to the largest population in the world. Though India has not conducted a census since 2011, however, UN projections show that India's population is at 1,417.2 million in 2022 and is expected to reach 1,428.6 million in 2023.

<h2>What's causing population change?&nbsp;</h2>

Mortality rate, fertility rate and life expectancy at birth

There are factors playing behind the change in population. Mortality or the relative number of deaths and fertility rates. In 1950, the crude death rate (CDR), or the number of deaths per 1,000 people annually, was 23.2 for China and 22.2 for India. China initially reached single digits in 1974 at 9.5, followed by India in 1994 to 9.8, and both countries in 2020 to 7.3–7.4. Moreover, life expectancy at birth went up from 43.7 to 78.1 years for China and from 41.7 to 70.1 years for India between 1950 and 2020. Throughout 1950, China and India had total fertility rates (TFR) of 5.8 and 5.7, respectively, which refers to the average number of children a woman will have in her lifetime. In the past thirty years, India's TFR has decreased significantly. It decreased from 3.4 to 2 between 1992–1993 and 2019–21; the decline was particularly notable in rural regions.

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China's 1980-enacted one-child policy formally ended in 2016. However, that is unlikely to stop the population reduction in the nation. UN projects China's population would reach 1.

China's 1980-enacted one-child policy formally ended in 2016. However, that is unlikely to stop the population reduction in the nation. UN projects China's population would reach 1.31 billion in 2050, a decrease of about 100 million from the 2021 peak. China's working population is also declining. China’s working-age population is projected to fall below 50% by 2045. With this, many are debating where India stands and the effects that the country's expanding population will have in light of China's dropping population rate. India set to become the world's most populous country China's population shrank in 2022 for the first time in more than 60 years which has increased the chance that India is all set to become the world's most populous nation in the coming months. What are the possible implications? Fertility rates in India, notably in rural regions, have just recently started to decline below replacement levels. The expansion of education, as well as, farm mechanisation and landholding fragmentation also had implications on India's population. The need for big families to farm the land has decreased due to smaller holdings and the need for less labour in agricultural operations. However, even with declining birth rates, it is predicted that India's population would only start to drop after reaching 1.7 billion in around 40 years. The working-age population is more significant; its proportion of the total population barely exceeded 50% in 2007 and will peak at 57% by the middle of the 2030s. Overall, India has a window of opportunity to enjoy its "demographic dividend" long into the 2040s, much like China did from the late 1980s to up until 2015. The provision of meaningful work possibilities for a youthful population is absolutely necessary for this to happen; otherwise, the demographic dividend might easily turn into a demographic nightmare. As per the National Bureau of Statistics, China's population dropped to 1,411.8 million in 2022. The previous year, China's population was 1,412.6 million. It is an important development as reportedly India will now be home to the largest population in the world. Though India has not conducted a census since 2011, however, UN projections show that India's population is at 1,417.2 million in 2022 and is expected to reach 1,428.6 million in 2023. What's causing population change? Mortality rate, fertility rate and life expectancy at birth There are factors playing behind the change in population. Mortality or the relative number of deaths and fertility rates. In 1950, the crude death rate (CDR), or the number of deaths per 1,000 people annually, was 23.2 for China and 22.2 for India. China initially reached single digits in 1974 at 9.5, followed by India in 1994 to 9.8, and both countries in 2020 to 7.3–7.4. Moreover, life expectancy at birth went up from 43.7 to 78.1 years for China and from 41.7 to 70.1 years for India between 1950 and 2020. Throughout 1950, China and India had total fertility rates (TFR) of 5.8 and 5.7, respectively, which refers to the average number of children a woman will have in her lifetime. In the past thirty years, India's TFR has decreased significantly. It decreased from 3.4 to 2 between 1992–1993 and 2019–21; the decline was particularly notable in rural regions. 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 set to be world's most populous country, surpassing China. What does it mean?

The Supreme Court asked Google India, if it will follow the same regime in India as it does in Europe with regard to pre-installed apps in Android-based mobile smartphones.

Supreme Court asks Google, will you follow European regime in India

Pak Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan wants to live in peace with India and called for serious and sincere talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on burning issues like Kashmir.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif wants to resolve 'burning issues like Kashmir'

#WIONFineprint | The World Population Review says that India's population has overtaken China's. This makes India the world's most populous country. What does that mean for India's economy?

WION Fineprint | India the world's most populous country?

An 8-year-old daughter of a diamond baron from Surat city in the Indian state of Gujarat has decided to give up all the luxuries of life and live her life as a monk. Watch this report to know further.

India: 8-year-old daughter of diamond merchant in Surat embraces monkhood

Pak PM Shehbaz recently made a peace offer to India saying Pakistan had learnt its lesson from 3 wars with India. However, the Pak PMO has now withdrawn this statement. Did Pak PM buckle under pressure?

Gravitas: Pak PM offers peace to India, then retracts statement

According to Oxfam research, the richest 1% in India now own more than 40% of the country's total wealth. Though the bottle half of the population together share just 3% of wealth. Watch further to know more.

World Business Watch: India's richest hold 40% stake in the country's wealth

India is hopeful of a rupee trade with Russia. The government data showed a near 400% jump in Russian merchandise imports from April-December. Watch further to know more.

World Business Watch: Indian rupee's expanding ambition

Two LeT terrorists were killed after an encounter broke out between security forces and militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district.

WION Dispatch: Two terrorists killed in a brief encounter with security forces in Jammu & Kashmir

India on Tuesday welcomed the United Nations Security Council’s decision to list Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba’s (LeT) deputy chief Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist.

WION Dispatch: India welcomes Abdul Rehman Makki's UN listing as terrorist

India's Kashmir has witnessed its season's heaviest snowfall and as many as seven avalanches have been witnessed in the course of the last one week. Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Seven avalanches in a week rock Kashmir valley

After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi&nbsp;on Monday reported no new Covid cases-&nbsp;a major milestone in the national capital's&nbsp;fight against the virus. The city last saw its no Covid cases on March 24, 2020, the same day when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a lockdown from midnight.&nbsp;

Till now over 26,500 people have died after being infected, the Hindustan Times reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-wakes-up-to-severe-chill-as-temperature-drops-to-14-degrees-celsius-553194">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Delhi wakes up to severe chill as temperature drops to 1.4 degrees Celsius</a>

Delhi reported its first Covid case on March 07, 2020. It reported its first fatality on March 13, 2020.&nbsp;

According to COVID-19 official bulletin figures released by Delhi's health department on Monday, around 2.07 million people have been infected since March 2020.&nbsp;

The data also showed that in the last 34 months, over 26,000 Delhi residents have died due to the infection.&nbsp;

The bulletin also showed that no covid patient died on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/city-life-and-love-can-delhi-the-capital-of-art-fiestas-lend-its-corners-to-its-buskers-553259">Also read |&nbsp;City, life and love| Can Delhi, the capital of art fiestas, lend its corners to its buskers?</a>

Over the past week, Delhi reported an average of three Covid cases every day.&nbsp;

To ensure safety, the government is continuously conducting tests. Many people also got tested for COVID-19 at home using rapid kits. Known as rapid antigen tests, these kits display results within 15 minutes. However, its results are not reflected in official government data.

The national capital has endured five waves of coronavirus infection: Between the end of May and June 2020, In September 2020, in November 2002, between April and May 2021, and in January 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi on Monday reported no new Covid cases- a major milestone in the national capital's fight against the virus.

After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi on Monday reported no new Covid cases- a major milestone in the national capital's fight against the virus. The city last saw its no Covid cases on March 24, 2020, the same day when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a lockdown from midnight. Till now over 26,500 people have died after being infected, the Hindustan Times reported. Also read | Delhi wakes up to severe chill as temperature drops to 1.4 degrees Celsius Delhi reported its first Covid case on March 07, 2020. It reported its first fatality on March 13, 2020. According to COVID-19 official bulletin figures released by Delhi's health department on Monday, around 2.07 million people have been infected since March 2020. The data also showed that in the last 34 months, over 26,000 Delhi residents have died due to the infection. The bulletin also showed that no covid patient died on Monday. Also read | City, life and love| Can Delhi, the capital of art fiestas, lend its corners to its buskers? Over the past week, Delhi reported an average of three Covid cases every day. To ensure safety, the government is continuously conducting tests. Many people also got tested for COVID-19 at home using rapid kits. Known as rapid antigen tests, these kits display results within 15 minutes. However, its results are not reflected in official government data. The national capital has endured five waves of coronavirus infection: Between the end of May and June 2020, In September 2020, in November 2002, between April and May 2021, and in January 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

For the first time in 1,027 days, Delhi registers no new Covid cases; no new fatality reported

The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond by February 15 to a batch of petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape, which is not recognised under the existing law.&nbsp;

The pleas filed as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seek to challenge the IPC provision and the constitutional validity of marital rape under section 375 IPC (rape) on the grounds that it discriminates against married women who are sexually assaulted by their husbands.&nbsp;

Under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 375, sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his wife, the wife not being minor, is not considered rape.&nbsp;

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who is representing the government in the court, told the bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud that the issue has legal as well as "social implications" and the government would like to file its response to the petitions.&nbsp;

"The Union of India shall file a counter affidavit by February 15, 2023. The batch of petitions will be heard on March 21," ordered the bench.&nbsp;

A couple of Indian high courts recently gave out a verdict regarding the issue. While the Delhi High Court on May 11, 2022 delivered a split verdict, Karnataka High Court on March 23 gave its approval for the prosecution of the man for allegedly raping his wife.&nbsp;

The solicitor general suggested that the cases against the spilt verdict of the Delhi High Court can be allowed to be heard by a third judge of the high court and then the Supreme court can have a "final view".&nbsp;

"Second option is that the Supreme Court hears the cases. With the first option, this court will have the benefit of the view of Delhi High Court," the law officer said. The bench did not seem to concur, reports PTI news agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond by February 15 to a batch of petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape, which is not recognised under the existing law.

The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond by February 15 to a batch of petitions seeking to criminalise marital rape, which is not recognised under the existing law. The pleas filed as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seek to challenge the IPC provision and the constitutional validity of marital rape under section 375 IPC (rape) on the grounds that it discriminates against married women who are sexually assaulted by their husbands. Under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 375, sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his wife, the wife not being minor, is not considered rape. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who is representing the government in the court, told the bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud that the issue has legal as well as "social implications" and the government would like to file its response to the petitions. "The Union of India shall file a counter affidavit by February 15, 2023. The batch of petitions will be heard on March 21," ordered the bench. A couple of Indian high courts recently gave out a verdict regarding the issue. While the Delhi High Court on May 11, 2022 delivered a split verdict, Karnataka High Court on March 23 gave its approval for the prosecution of the man for allegedly raping his wife. The solicitor general suggested that the cases against the spilt verdict of the Delhi High Court can be allowed to be heard by a third judge of the high court and then the Supreme court can have a "final view". "Second option is that the Supreme Court hears the cases. With the first option, this court will have the benefit of the view of Delhi High Court," the law officer said. The bench did not seem to concur, reports PTI news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India’s Supreme Court seeks Centre’s view on criminalising marital rape  

India will celebrate its 73rd Republic day on the 26th of January. The Southasian country has invited Egypt's President Wael Hamed to attend the ceremony.

WION Exclusive: Egypt's ambassador to India Wael Hamed speaks to WION

India's richest, the top one percent now hold more than 40 percent of the country's overall wealth while the lower half of the population collectively owns just three percent.

WION Fineprint | India: Richest own 40% of the country's wealth

India is optimistic that the repeat trade with Russia will increase in the future after both countries finalize terms to enable commerce in local currencies.

WION Fineprint: Will rupee trade with Russia increase?

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts. While both movies are in a close race at the domestic box office, Vijay's Varisu clearly outperformed Ajith's Thunivu during the course of the opening weekend.&nbsp;Ajith Kumar and Vijay both had movies released on the same day after a nine-year hiatus. Thunivu had the first-day box office advantage in Tamil Nadu, but Varisu overtook starting on day two. According to trade sources, Varisu and Thunivu both surpassed the $100 crore mark at the Indian box office in their first weekend.

On Monday, Ramesh Bala, a trade expert, tweeted that both movies were performing well in India. He acknowledged that both movies had made over 100 crore at the Indian box office. The Vijay-starring movie has, however, decisively surpassed Ajith's movie in important overseas countries like the US, UK, and some other locations, giving Varisu a minor edge over Thunivu at the worldwide box office. Varisu has already made almost $1 million in the US, whereas Thunivu has only made $900,000. Last Wednesday, Varisu and Thunivu were equally distributed across Tamil Nadu's theatres. Shows were scheduled as early as 1 am, so fans celebrated the debut of both movies in full force by staying up all night.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thunivu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thunivu</a> has entered the ₹ 100 Cr Club at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> Box office..
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1614809763858247682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Ajith, director H. Vinoth and producer Boney Kapoor, all three of them worked together once again on the heist thriller Thunivu. Manju Warrier also plays a significant part in the movie. The movie, which is primarily set within a bank, is on financial fraud and how it affects the general people. The family drama Varisu, which features Vijay, centres on the youngest son attempting to take over his father's business empire while facing fierce opposition from his two older siblings. The movie, which was also Vijay's Telugu debut, was directed by Vamshi Paidipally and also had a Tamil and a Telugu version. Key parts in the movie are also played by Rashmika Mandanna, Srikanth, Sarath Kumar, Shaam and Jayasudha.

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts.

When Vijay's Varisu and Ajith Kumar's Thunivu premiered on the same day around Pongal last week, the Tamil film industry saw one of the largest box-office conflicts. While both movies are in a close race at the domestic box office, Vijay's Varisu clearly outperformed Ajith's Thunivu during the course of the opening weekend. Ajith Kumar and Vijay both had movies released on the same day after a nine-year hiatus. Thunivu had the first-day box office advantage in Tamil Nadu, but Varisu overtook starting on day two. According to trade sources, Varisu and Thunivu both surpassed the $100 crore mark at the Indian box office in their first weekend. On Monday, Ramesh Bala, a trade expert, tweeted that both movies were performing well in India. He acknowledged that both movies had made over 100 crore at the Indian box office. The Vijay-starring movie has, however, decisively surpassed Ajith's movie in important overseas countries like the US, UK, and some other locations, giving Varisu a minor edge over Thunivu at the worldwide box office. Varisu has already made almost $1 million in the US, whereas Thunivu has only made $900,000. Last Wednesday, Varisu and Thunivu were equally distributed across Tamil Nadu's theatres. Shows were scheduled as early as 1 am, so fans celebrated the debut of both movies in full force by staying up all night. #Thunivu has entered the ₹ 100 Cr Club at the #India Box office.. — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 16, 2023 × Ajith, director H. Vinoth and producer Boney Kapoor, all three of them worked together once again on the heist thriller Thunivu. Manju Warrier also plays a significant part in the movie. The movie, which is primarily set within a bank, is on financial fraud and how it affects the general people. The family drama Varisu, which features Vijay, centres on the youngest son attempting to take over his father's business empire while facing fierce opposition from his two older siblings. The movie, which was also Vijay's Telugu debut, was directed by Vamshi Paidipally and also had a Tamil and a Telugu version. Key parts in the movie are also played by Rashmika Mandanna, Srikanth, Sarath Kumar, Shaam and Jayasudha.

Varisu and Thunivu Box Office Collection: Films cross ₹100 cr club in India over opening weekend

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world.&nbsp;

Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines."

The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities.&nbsp;

His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award.&nbsp;

Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-g20-presidency-at-critical-time-will-provide-solutions-says-chief-coordinator-harsh-shringla-549951">"India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla</a>

The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country.&nbsp;

India-Guyana relations

"There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said.

"Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added.

On rise of India

"India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking.

Vaccine Maitri

"During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said.

His India connection

"India is our motherland..,” the president said.&nbsp;

WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency

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Voice of the global south summit

"Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said.&nbsp;

Oil exports to India

"Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali.&nbsp;

Defence co-operation

"We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said.

Guyana's economic progress

"Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added.

Support for India's bid at UNSC

"We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated.&nbsp;

Climate change

"We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said.&nbsp;

West's Climate Change commitments

"(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed.&nbsp;

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Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines." The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities. His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award. Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September. ALSO READ| "India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country. India-Guyana relations "There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said. "Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added. On rise of India "India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking. Vaccine Maitri "During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said. His India connection "India is our motherland..,” the president said. WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency Voice of the global south summit "Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said. Oil exports to India "Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali. Defence co-operation "We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said. Guyana's economic progress "Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added. Support for India's bid at UNSC "We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated. Climate change "We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said. West's Climate Change commitments "(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Guyana President Irfaan Ali lauds India's leadership amid Covid pandemic

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration."

India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by an Indian Oil Corporation.

He also spoke about India's ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative that "really helped" New Delhi and "its India's image, that we will help others no matter what".

India under the Vaccine Maitri exported Covid vaccines to almost 100 countries including Guyana. He also spoke on the diaspora connection, the visit of the President of Guyana's India visit, Guyana's economy among other things. Here are some key excerpts.&nbsp;

<h2>Views on Indian diaspora</h2>

"Guyana has 39% diaspora of Indian origin and the connect has been for last 183 years,” he said.

"Indo-Guyanese have retained Indian roots, even though it has been 183 years. They celebrate all the Indian festivals. The cuisines, the religion, the traditions. If you go to a mandir in Guyana, it seems you have entered a time capsule because of the bhajans from eastern UP, Western Bihar. Traditions have remained, old Bhojpuri songs."

<h2>Guyana President Irfaan Ali's India connect</h2>

"Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha university under ITEC scholarship of Indian govt. This is his fourth visit to India, one as a student, one as a MP and a minister. This is the first time he has come as a head of state"

<h2>India-Guyana cultural connect</h2>

"Holi is called&nbsp;Phagwa&nbsp;in Guyana, they sign&nbsp;chautals&nbsp;which are basically songs for Lord Krishna and Rama. They are sung in the same tone and depth as they are sung in eastern UP and Bihar. They celebrate all the important festivals, be it Holi, Shivratri, Diwali, Dussehra, or everything. On Diwali, they have a Diwali motorcade parade in which Diwali themes are played by the actors and lit up brilliantly. They do traditional Kartik arti."

"We get Guyanese youth and elderly people for an extensive journey for 3 weeks. We call it the Know India program. Under the know India program, every 2 months we get Guyanese youth and familiarize them with India. The elderly are taken on a pilgrimage called as&nbsp;Prabhas Tirth Dham Yojana."

"Whenever I talk to Indo-Guyanese, they talk eloquently about the links they have with India.I remember I went to a remote village a few months into covid, we were to help them with gift hampers, and giving them food. An old gentleman came, and when he knew who I was, he held my hand and became emotional. This was because I was the first Bharatiya, Indian he had seen in many decades. That is the emotion they have, this cultural connection will remain."

<h2>Guyana &amp; Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</h2>

"Guyana has been a long-standing partner for India through thick and thin. In fact, even though Guyana is a member of OIC, it has never associated itself with those resolutions."

<h2>Energy exports to India</h2>

Guyana started pumping out crude oil only in December 2020, and they are expected to pump 1.7 million barrels by 2035. At the same time, it will become the world's richest country per capita. They call it the “Dubai of the Caribbean".

"India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by the Indian Oil Corporation. This oil&nbsp;is the lifeline of countries. So, the government of India has been talking with the government of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration. Gas is one more sector, India can collaborate."&nbsp;

"We have signed a contract between Engineers India Limited and the government of Guyana for a project management contract, for an 800-million-dollar gas-to-energy project. It is interesting to know, implementing company for the project is an American company but it will be supervised by an Indian company."

<h2>India's vaccine diplomacy—'Vaccine Maitri’</h2>

"When I went to the hospital...everyone was waiting in the room when they realised who I was, that I was the Indian high commissioner. They thanked India, our country. They said, India is our saviour."

"Vaccine diplomacy really helped India. I tell you, today, if India has a good standing, it was reinforced. Today if I go to any govt, trust me nobody says no. It's India's image that we will help others no matter what. PM Modi, the Indian government has shown. Indian people have shown they are generous.”

India's support to Guyana

"India doesn't work on the relationship which is quid pro quo. We maintain our traditional relationship, our partnership across the world with a view of south-south cooperation. Guyana has been a beneficiary of this aid, a partnership with India. Be it the ITEC scholarship of which 650 Guyana nationals have taken advantage, his excellency is one of them.”

“The cricket stadium in Guyana was built by India for the world cup. We have given them pumps to deal with floods. Traffic lights in George town were installed by India. We have given them the Centre of excellence in IT. Currently infrastructure projects worth about $105 million, one is the ferry. We have roads, and hospitals that are being constructed"

<h2>Guyana's economy</h2>

"Guyana is wanting to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean.&nbsp;It has rich soil, abundant water, and good connectivity in the region. It has FTAs with all the Caribbean countries and Latin American countries...Guyana is offering a lot of land on the lease; they are looking for investors. Guyana can be one of the countries for our people. It is ready to give concessions in terms of tax concessions"

"Last year Guyana grew by 50 per cent. Crude oil will bring a lot of opportunities,” he added.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr K J Srinivasa has said that technical teams of both India and Guyana will sit down to discuss the oil trade. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the high commissioner said, "So the govt of India has been talking with the govt of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration." India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by an Indian Oil Corporation. He also spoke about India's ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative that "really helped" New Delhi and "its India's image, that we will help others no matter what". India under the Vaccine Maitri exported Covid vaccines to almost 100 countries including Guyana. He also spoke on the diaspora connection, the visit of the President of Guyana's India visit, Guyana's economy among other things. Here are some key excerpts. Views on Indian diaspora "Guyana has 39% diaspora of Indian origin and the connect has been for last 183 years,” he said. "Indo-Guyanese have retained Indian roots, even though it has been 183 years. They celebrate all the Indian festivals. The cuisines, the religion, the traditions. If you go to a mandir in Guyana, it seems you have entered a time capsule because of the bhajans from eastern UP, Western Bihar. Traditions have remained, old Bhojpuri songs." Guyana President Irfaan Ali's India connect "Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha university under ITEC scholarship of Indian govt. This is his fourth visit to India, one as a student, one as a MP and a minister. This is the first time he has come as a head of state" India-Guyana cultural connect "Holi is called Phagwa in Guyana, they sign chautals which are basically songs for Lord Krishna and Rama. They are sung in the same tone and depth as they are sung in eastern UP and Bihar. They celebrate all the important festivals, be it Holi, Shivratri, Diwali, Dussehra, or everything. On Diwali, they have a Diwali motorcade parade in which Diwali themes are played by the actors and lit up brilliantly. They do traditional Kartik arti." "We get Guyanese youth and elderly people for an extensive journey for 3 weeks. We call it the Know India program. Under the know India program, every 2 months we get Guyanese youth and familiarize them with India. The elderly are taken on a pilgrimage called as Prabhas Tirth Dham Yojana." "Whenever I talk to Indo-Guyanese, they talk eloquently about the links they have with India.I remember I went to a remote village a few months into covid, we were to help them with gift hampers, and giving them food. An old gentleman came, and when he knew who I was, he held my hand and became emotional. This was because I was the first Bharatiya, Indian he had seen in many decades. That is the emotion they have, this cultural connection will remain." Guyana & Organisation of Islamic Cooperation "Guyana has been a long-standing partner for India through thick and thin. In fact, even though Guyana is a member of OIC, it has never associated itself with those resolutions." Energy exports to India Guyana started pumping out crude oil only in December 2020, and they are expected to pump 1.7 million barrels by 2035. At the same time, it will become the world's richest country per capita. They call it the “Dubai of the Caribbean". "India took two loads last year, one was a consortium of HPCL, later by the Indian Oil Corporation. This oil is the lifeline of countries. So, the government of India has been talking with the government of Guyana, we are to work on govt-to-govt biases. We have decided technical teams from both countries will sit down and discuss ways of collaboration. Gas is one more sector, India can collaborate." "We have signed a contract between Engineers India Limited and the government of Guyana for a project management contract, for an 800-million-dollar gas-to-energy project. It is interesting to know, implementing company for the project is an American company but it will be supervised by an Indian company." India's vaccine diplomacy—'Vaccine Maitri’ "When I went to the hospital...everyone was waiting in the room when they realised who I was, that I was the Indian high commissioner. They thanked India, our country. They said, India is our saviour." "Vaccine diplomacy really helped India. I tell you, today, if India has a good standing, it was reinforced. Today if I go to any govt, trust me nobody says no. It's India's image that we will help others no matter what. PM Modi, the Indian government has shown. Indian people have shown they are generous.” India's support to Guyana "India doesn't work on the relationship which is quid pro quo. We maintain our traditional relationship, our partnership across the world with a view of south-south cooperation. Guyana has been a beneficiary of this aid, a partnership with India. Be it the ITEC scholarship of which 650 Guyana nationals have taken advantage, his excellency is one of them.” “The cricket stadium in Guyana was built by India for the world cup. We have given them pumps to deal with floods. Traffic lights in George town were installed by India. We have given them the Centre of excellence in IT. Currently infrastructure projects worth about $105 million, one is the ferry. We have roads, and hospitals that are being constructed" Guyana's economy "Guyana is wanting to be the breadbasket of the Caribbean. It has rich soil, abundant water, and good connectivity in the region. It has FTAs with all the Caribbean countries and Latin American countries...Guyana is offering a lot of land on the lease; they are looking for investors. Guyana can be one of the countries for our people. It is ready to give concessions in terms of tax concessions" "Last year Guyana grew by 50 per cent. Crude oil will bring a lot of opportunities,” he added.

India, Guyana technical teams to discuss oil trade, says Indian envoy K J Srinivasa 

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar gives India’s counter-response to China. He said that China tried to unilaterally change the status quo on the LAC in May 2020, amid the pandemic. Watch further to know more.

India has firmly responded to China: EAM S Jaishankar

Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June&nbsp;1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries.&nbsp;The victims were frequent moviegoers who had gone&nbsp;to watch the movie&nbsp;"Border" by J P Dutta.

With the release of&nbsp;a mini-series “Trial by Fire” on Netflix which is based on a book about the incident and the long-drawn court battle that ensued,&nbsp;we take an in-depth look at what exactly happened.&nbsp;

<h2>Uphaar Tragedy: What exactly happened on 13 June 1997?</h2>

On&nbsp;the morning on 13 June 1997,&nbsp;the larger of the two transformers on the ground floor of the Uphaar cinema caught fire at around 6:55 am. Despite the fact that the fire was quickly put out, the transformer was compromised, as reported by the&nbsp;Indian Express.&nbsp;

An electrician fixed it quickly, and the theatre was then opened. The transformer caught fire again because the repair wasn't done properly after one of its cables broke free and caused a lot of sparking.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/the-soft-and-untapped-power-of-hindi-language-552432">Did you know James Cameron's 'Avatar' films are subconsciously linked to India?</a>

According to reports, the transformer lacked an oil soak pit, which is required by law, and allowed the burning oil to spread to other places. Even distant automobiles were engulfed in the fire.&nbsp;

The theatre lost power, and smoke started to fill in. While viewers seated on the lower floor were able to find an escape, those seated on the balcony were trapped. As a result,&nbsp;59 people died inside due to asphyxiation -&nbsp;&nbsp;suffocation from a lack of oxygen.&nbsp;

Over 103 people&nbsp;were critically injured during a scramble to escape the theatre. Most importantly, it took fire tenders nearly an hour to get to the scene owing to traffic.

<h2>The lapses in safety measures</h2>

The tragic fire was caused by a number of failures in "safety measures." The&nbsp;Indian Express&nbsp;quoted senior advocate Harish Salve, who was appearing on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;High Court in 2007, “Safety measures, meant for panic situations, were not in place in the ill-fated theatre… the persons, who were getting financial gains from the operation of the cinema, were criminally liable for the lapses.”

The investigation stated that the generator that caught fire lacked safety features and, more crucially, was installed in a space that was being utilised as a parking lot which&nbsp;made it easier for gasoline-powered vehicles to catch fire, as reported by the Indian Express.

Additional information claimed that the generator had not received the periodic maintenance mandated by law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/relief-for-delhi-citys-temperature-not-likely-to-drop-to-subzero-amid-4-degree-celsius-prediction-552670">Relief for Delhi! City's temperature not likely to drop to subzero amid -4 degrees Celsius prediction</a>

When the theatre lost electricity, the movie hall became completely dark since it lacked emergency lighting, footlights, or exit lights. The audience was not informed of the fire via any public notice system, reported the Indian Express.&nbsp;

<h2>A protracted legal battle</h2>

Victims and surviving family members of the deceased sought to hold the theatre owners accountable in a protracted court case. 16 defendants, including the business owners Sushil and Gopal Ansal, were named in the original charge sheet submitted by the CBI conducting the investigation. However, the trial had many unexpected turns. Even now, there is a case of evidence tampering against the Ansals, thus the quest for justice continues.

The Ansal brothers were found guilty of criminal negligence in 2007, 10 years after the fire, and were given the maximum term that could be imposed in such a case: two years in jail. The Delhi High Court maintained the verdict but reduced the sentence to one year after a year.&nbsp;

The case was heard by the Supreme Court for over ten years. The two brothers were ordered to pay a fine of Rs 30 crores each in 2017, which was used to build a trauma centre, by the supreme court. Sushil Ansal, who has already served five months in prison, was spared additional time in prison due to his advanced age (77) and medical issues. Gopal was sentenced to a year in jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Compensation for the deceased's kin was set at Rs&nbsp;10 lakh for those above the age of 20, and Rs&nbsp;7.5 lakh for those under the age of 20. Each injured individual receives Rs&nbsp;1 lakh.

The brothers were convicted for tampering with evidence in a different case. A&nbsp;Delhi court sentenced both of them to seven years of simple jail in 2021. The court additionally fined each of the Ansals Rs&nbsp;2.5 crore. The brothers have challenged their conviction in this ongoing case.

<h2>Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy: The couple that lost their kids to the Uphaar tragedy</h2>

“We didn’t spend as much time with our children on this Earth as we have seeking justice for their murders. We are serving a living death sentence; it has been 26 years, and it is still on,” Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;before the release of the Netflix series&nbsp;that&nbsp;chronicles the couple's fight for justice.

In 2022,&nbsp;Gopal and Sushil Ansal were released from jail. The court had indicated that the ruling was based on taking the ages of the brothers into account, despite the fact that nothing could make up for what the victims' families had lost.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<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>

Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June 1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries.

Recalled as one of India's worst fire catastrophes, the Uphaar cinema fire on 13 June 1997, in Delhi's Green Park locality resulted in 59 deaths and 103 injuries. The victims were frequent moviegoers who had gone to watch the movie "Border" by J P Dutta. With the release of a mini-series “Trial by Fire” on Netflix which is based on a book about the incident and the long-drawn court battle that ensued, we take an in-depth look at what exactly happened. Uphaar Tragedy: What exactly happened on 13 June 1997? On the morning on 13 June 1997, the larger of the two transformers on the ground floor of the Uphaar cinema caught fire at around 6:55 am. Despite the fact that the fire was quickly put out, the transformer was compromised, as reported by the Indian Express. An electrician fixed it quickly, and the theatre was then opened. The transformer caught fire again because the repair wasn't done properly after one of its cables broke free and caused a lot of sparking. Also read | Did you know James Cameron's 'Avatar' films are subconsciously linked to India? According to reports, the transformer lacked an oil soak pit, which is required by law, and allowed the burning oil to spread to other places. Even distant automobiles were engulfed in the fire. The theatre lost power, and smoke started to fill in. While viewers seated on the lower floor were able to find an escape, those seated on the balcony were trapped. As a result, 59 people died inside due to asphyxiation - suffocation from a lack of oxygen. Over 103 people were critically injured during a scramble to escape the theatre. Most importantly, it took fire tenders nearly an hour to get to the scene owing to traffic. The lapses in safety measures The tragic fire was caused by a number of failures in "safety measures." The Indian Express quoted senior advocate Harish Salve, who was appearing on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the Delhi High Court in 2007, “Safety measures, meant for panic situations, were not in place in the ill-fated theatre… the persons, who were getting financial gains from the operation of the cinema, were criminally liable for the lapses.” The investigation stated that the generator that caught fire lacked safety features and, more crucially, was installed in a space that was being utilised as a parking lot which made it easier for gasoline-powered vehicles to catch fire, as reported by the Indian Express. Additional information claimed that the generator had not received the periodic maintenance mandated by law. Also read | Relief for Delhi! City's temperature not likely to drop to subzero amid -4 degrees Celsius prediction When the theatre lost electricity, the movie hall became completely dark since it lacked emergency lighting, footlights, or exit lights. The audience was not informed of the fire via any public notice system, reported the Indian Express. A protracted legal battle Victims and surviving family members of the deceased sought to hold the theatre owners accountable in a protracted court case. 16 defendants, including the business owners Sushil and Gopal Ansal, were named in the original charge sheet submitted by the CBI conducting the investigation. However, the trial had many unexpected turns. Even now, there is a case of evidence tampering against the Ansals, thus the quest for justice continues. The Ansal brothers were found guilty of criminal negligence in 2007, 10 years after the fire, and were given the maximum term that could be imposed in such a case: two years in jail. The Delhi High Court maintained the verdict but reduced the sentence to one year after a year. The case was heard by the Supreme Court for over ten years. The two brothers were ordered to pay a fine of Rs 30 crores each in 2017, which was used to build a trauma centre, by the supreme court. Sushil Ansal, who has already served five months in prison, was spared additional time in prison due to his advanced age (77) and medical issues. Gopal was sentenced to a year in jail. Compensation for the deceased's kin was set at Rs 10 lakh for those above the age of 20, and Rs 7.5 lakh for those under the age of 20. Each injured individual receives Rs 1 lakh. The brothers were convicted for tampering with evidence in a different case. A Delhi court sentenced both of them to seven years of simple jail in 2021. The court additionally fined each of the Ansals Rs 2.5 crore. The brothers have challenged their conviction in this ongoing case. Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy: The couple that lost their kids to the Uphaar tragedy “We didn’t spend as much time with our children on this Earth as we have seeking justice for their murders. We are serving a living death sentence; it has been 26 years, and it is still on,” Shekhar and Neelam Krishnamoorthy told The Indian Express before the release of the Netflix series that chronicles the couple's fight for justice. In 2022, Gopal and Sushil Ansal were released from jail. The court had indicated that the ruling was based on taking the ages of the brothers into account, despite the fact that nothing could make up for what the victims' families had lost. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Netflix's 'Trial by Fire': Everything about the Uphaar cinema fire of 1997

India and Suriname might be geographically far away but their linked in lot of ways, especially through a large Indian diaspora including the President of Suriname.

WION Exclusive: Suriname President Chandrikapersad "Chan" Santokhi speaks to WION

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr. K. J. Srinivasa spoke to WION during the President of Guyana Irfaan Ali's India visit. The President was on a week-long India visit which he started from Indore. In Indore he attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Speaking exclusively with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, pointed to the energy cooperation between the 2 countries. He said India last year took consignments of oil from the South American country, one by a Consortium by HPCL and another by Indian Oil Cooperation. Dr. K. J. Srinivasa belongs to the 2002 batch of India Foreign Service. He has worked in different capacities in the Indian Diplomatic Missions in Madrid (Spain) and Lima (Peru).

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr. K. J. Srinivasa speaks to WION

While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement in response to the media queries about the alleged indecent treatment by an official of the High Commission to the Indian woman.

“There is zero tolerance for misbehaviour and mistreatment of individuals visiting our Missions,” she said.

“While we are looking into this case, we are surprised at its timing and the manner in which it has been raised. There are robust mechanisms in place for redressal of all public grievances,” she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-collusion-suspected-after-attacks-on-chinese-nationals-in-afghanistan-551717">Read more:&nbsp;Pakistani collusion suspected after attacks on Chinese nationals in Afghanistan: Experts</a>

She also said that Pakistan attaches high importance to proper etiquette and behaviour towards all visa and consular applicants.

“All our diplomatic staff are under strict instructions to conduct themselves professionally,” said Baloch.

Earlier, it was reported that a female educationist had levelled serious charges of indecent behaviour and sexual advances by some senior staff members of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi when she visited to apply for a visa.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi.

While expressing “zero tolerance” for misbehaviour at its foreign missions, Pakistan said on Thursday that it was looking into the case of a woman visitor who has alleged indecent behaviour by some senior staff members of the country’s high commission in New Delhi. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement in response to the media queries about the alleged indecent treatment by an official of the High Commission to the Indian woman. “There is zero tolerance for misbehaviour and mistreatment of individuals visiting our Missions,” she said. “While we are looking into this case, we are surprised at its timing and the manner in which it has been raised. There are robust mechanisms in place for redressal of all public grievances,” she added. Read more: Pakistani collusion suspected after attacks on Chinese nationals in Afghanistan: Experts She also said that Pakistan attaches high importance to proper etiquette and behaviour towards all visa and consular applicants. “All our diplomatic staff are under strict instructions to conduct themselves professionally,” said Baloch. Earlier, it was reported that a female educationist had levelled serious charges of indecent behaviour and sexual advances by some senior staff members of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi when she visited to apply for a visa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Islamabad responds to allegations of Indian woman accusing Pakistan High Commission staffer of misconduct

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