In an exclusive conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal, Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma has confirmed that the recruitment of Nepalese soldiers to Indian army has temporarily stopped. Nepal wants understanding of Agnipath scheme from highest level.

'Nepal seeks clarity on Agnipath scheme,' says Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma

For the next 7 days, Russia will undertake massive military drills along with troops of at least 12 countries including China and India. The drills mark increasingly close defense ties between Moscow and Beijing. The week-long exercises which began today set to end on the 7th of September and it comes amid simmering tensions with the West over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia holds opening ceremony for Vostok 2022, week-long military drills start

Russian President Vladimir Putin is resisting attempts made by the US and its allies to isolate his country over its invasion of Ukraine by organising significant military drills along with China, India and others.

The week-long Vostok-2022 war games, which began on Thursday in Russia, include naval drills in the sea and are anticipated to involve over 50,000 soldiers and 5,000 pieces of military equipment and weapons. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Russia’s Collective Security Treaty are taking part in the routine drills, Bloomberg reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-wants-permanent-presence-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-to-avoid-nuclear-accident-511905">Also read |&nbsp;IAEA wants 'permanent presence' at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to avoid 'radiation accident'</a>

However, when it comes to India, it previously refrained from participating in the drills and taking Russia’s side in the conflict, but due to its dependency on Moscow for armaments and concerns with border issues with China and Pakistan, it is expected that India will send 75-member team for drills. The US, on the other side, is wooing India as its defence partner and pleading with it not to go against UN sanctions against Russia.

But, during the UNSC’s procedural vote last week, India voted against Russia for the first time and also suspended plans to jointly develop helicopters and other deals with Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-may-begin-recruiting-convicted-criminals-us-intelligence-511902">Also read |&nbsp;Russian military may begin recruiting 'convicted criminals': US intelligence</a>

On the other hand, China refused to criticise Russia for its invasion and also opposed UN sanctions against it. China’s army, navy, and air force participated in drills, the defence ministry said. The country also provided Russia with technology and military supplies despite the risk of US secondary sanctions.

Countries like Syria, Algeria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Tajikistan, along with others, are also participating in the war games.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is resisting attempts made by the US and its allies to isolate his country over its invasion of Ukraine by organising significant military drills along with China, India and others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is resisting attempts made by the US and its allies to isolate his country over its invasion of Ukraine by organising significant military drills along with China, India and others. The week-long Vostok-2022 war games, which began on Thursday in Russia, include naval drills in the sea and are anticipated to involve over 50,000 soldiers and 5,000 pieces of military equipment and weapons. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and Russia’s Collective Security Treaty are taking part in the routine drills, Bloomberg reported. Also read | IAEA wants 'permanent presence' at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to avoid 'radiation accident' However, when it comes to India, it previously refrained from participating in the drills and taking Russia’s side in the conflict, but due to its dependency on Moscow for armaments and concerns with border issues with China and Pakistan, it is expected that India will send 75-member team for drills. The US, on the other side, is wooing India as its defence partner and pleading with it not to go against UN sanctions against Russia. But, during the UNSC’s procedural vote last week, India voted against Russia for the first time and also suspended plans to jointly develop helicopters and other deals with Russia. Also read | Russian military may begin recruiting 'convicted criminals': US intelligence On the other hand, China refused to criticise Russia for its invasion and also opposed UN sanctions against it. China’s army, navy, and air force participated in drills, the defence ministry said. The country also provided Russia with technology and military supplies despite the risk of US secondary sanctions. Countries like Syria, Algeria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Tajikistan, along with others, are also participating in the war games. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite US opposition, Russia holds Vostok-2022 war games with China, India, other nations

The United States has expressed its concern after India decided to participate in joint military exercises with Russia. The Indian government said that they will be taking part in the “Vostok” exercises which will be held between September 1-7 in a number of locations across Russia.

According to the Russian defence ministry, the exercises will feature around 50,000 troops and over 5000 weapons units which will also include 60 warships and more than 150 aircraft.

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“The United States has concerns about any country exercising with Russia while Russia wages an unprovoked, brutal war against Ukraine. But, of course, every participating country will make its own decisions. And I’ll leave it at that,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told Reuters.

According to the Russian news agency TASS, the “Vostok” exercises will include a number of ex-Soviet nations, China, India, Laos, Mongolia, Nicaragua and Syria. Chief of Russia’s General Staff — Valery Gerasimov — will be conducting the exercises at training grounds in Eastern Military District.

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While India has agreed to join most of the exercises, the government has made it clear that they will not take part in the maritime training. The reason behind the decision was to not hurt Japan’s sentiments as both the Russian and Chinese warships will conduct the drills in the Sea of Japan.

India has not directly criticised Russia for the ongoing invasion of Ukraine and also abstained from voting on various global forums against its strategic ally. In the recent past, the two countries have signed a number of arms deals, including for the S-400 Triumf air defence missile system.

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The United States has expressed its concern after India decided to participate in joint military exercises with Russia. The Indian government said that they will be taking part in the “Vostok” exercises which will be held between September 1-7 in a number of locations across Russia.

The United States has expressed its concern after India decided to participate in joint military exercises with Russia. The Indian government said that they will be taking part in the “Vostok” exercises which will be held between September 1-7 in a number of locations across Russia. According to the Russian defence ministry, the exercises will feature around 50,000 troops and over 5000 weapons units which will also include 60 warships and more than 150 aircraft. Also read | Gazprom to reduce gas deliveries to Engie, France's biggest gas supplier “The United States has concerns about any country exercising with Russia while Russia wages an unprovoked, brutal war against Ukraine. But, of course, every participating country will make its own decisions. And I’ll leave it at that,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told Reuters. According to the Russian news agency TASS, the “Vostok” exercises will include a number of ex-Soviet nations, China, India, Laos, Mongolia, Nicaragua and Syria. Chief of Russia’s General Staff — Valery Gerasimov — will be conducting the exercises at training grounds in Eastern Military District. Also read | Last Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev, who ended cold war, dies aged 91 While India has agreed to join most of the exercises, the government has made it clear that they will not take part in the maritime training. The reason behind the decision was to not hurt Japan’s sentiments as both the Russian and Chinese warships will conduct the drills in the Sea of Japan. India has not directly criticised Russia for the ongoing invasion of Ukraine and also abstained from voting on various global forums against its strategic ally. In the recent past, the two countries have signed a number of arms deals, including for the S-400 Triumf air defence missile system.

United States expresses concern over India's participation in Russian military exercises

In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army,&nbsp;Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a&nbsp;conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision.&nbsp;The Nepalese envoy stated&nbsp;his country would like more "understanding from the highest level".&nbsp;He further added that the government "would like to know more about Agnipath and Agniveer".&nbsp;

India earlier this year had announced the Agnipath scheme to recruit new soldiers in&nbsp;the Army. Under the scheme, the tenure of a soldier will be four years and only one-fourth will be retained after this period. Additionally, the Nepalese envoy also spoke on border issues and the cultural connect between the two countries.

WION: What was the aim of Teej celebrations?

Shankar Prasad Sharma​​​​​​: We would definitely like to strengthen the people-to-people relationship between the two countries. That is more sustainable which will help in strengthening other areas of partnership between the two countries. If we have a strong people-to-people bond, then nobody can separate them and then that will have a sustainable strong partnership between the two countries.

WION: Both India&nbsp;and Nepal have civilisation ties, roti beti ka rishta (family ties)..

SP Sharma: That is also going on, if we see today's crowd, many of these people, let's say the royal family of Nepal, they get married here in India. Some of these people get married in Nepal. At that level, the southern part of Nepal...it's much more, in terms of marriage and networking family relationships. That has continued. When you are in the same religion and the same culture, it's easier to have such relationships.

WION: How is the recruitment of Gorkhas under the Agnipath scheme going?

SP Sharma: No, they [Nepalese government] would like to know more about the Agnipath scheme. When we had a tripartite agreement long ago between India, Nepal and UK, we didn't have the provisions. Nepal would like to know more about it. They would like to have more clarity on this one because we have so many political parties in Nepal and they would like to consult with each other and know more.

WION: So, no recruitment happening under Agnipath&nbsp;scheme up until now?

SP Sharma: Yes, they had one schedule but that has been postponed.

WION: Did the Indian government take you in confidence?

SP Sharma: Yes and no. But Nepal would like to have more understanding from the highest level.

WION: How hopeful you are that the issue will be resolved?

SP Sharma: I am sure it will be. There are two issues, one is the understanding and implications to Nepal. Secondly, it is linked to political parties in Nepal and they have to have a consensus. I am sure something will come out.

WION: Indian Army chief is visiting Nepal, will it be discussed?

SP&nbsp;Sharma: I am sure they will.

WION: Any update on Border talks?

SP Sharma: No I think when both PMs visited each other's countries, there was a press release or press conference by the foreign secretary but many of these issues must be solved amicably and we hope they will start a dialogue soon and we will have some kind of solution.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army, Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision.

In the first-ever comments since Nepal announced its decision to not send its soldiers to Indian Army, Nepal's Ambassador to India Shankar Prasad Sharma, in a conversation with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal confirmed the decision. The Nepalese envoy stated his country would like more "understanding from the highest level". He further added that the government "would like to know more about Agnipath and Agniveer". India earlier this year had announced the Agnipath scheme to recruit new soldiers in the Army. Under the scheme, the tenure of a soldier will be four years and only one-fourth will be retained after this period. Additionally, the Nepalese envoy also spoke on border issues and the cultural connect between the two countries. WION: What was the aim of Teej celebrations? Shankar Prasad Sharma: We would definitely like to strengthen the people-to-people relationship between the two countries. That is more sustainable which will help in strengthening other areas of partnership between the two countries. If we have a strong people-to-people bond, then nobody can separate them and then that will have a sustainable strong partnership between the two countries. WION: Both India and Nepal have civilisation ties, roti beti ka rishta (family ties).. SP Sharma: That is also going on, if we see today's crowd, many of these people, let's say the royal family of Nepal, they get married here in India. Some of these people get married in Nepal. At that level, the southern part of Nepal...it's much more, in terms of marriage and networking family relationships. That has continued. When you are in the same religion and the same culture, it's easier to have such relationships. WION: How is the recruitment of Gorkhas under the Agnipath scheme going? SP Sharma: No, they [Nepalese government] would like to know more about the Agnipath scheme. When we had a tripartite agreement long ago between India, Nepal and UK, we didn't have the provisions. Nepal would like to know more about it. They would like to have more clarity on this one because we have so many political parties in Nepal and they would like to consult with each other and know more. WION: So, no recruitment happening under Agnipath scheme up until now? SP Sharma: Yes, they had one schedule but that has been postponed. WION: Did the Indian government take you in confidence? SP Sharma: Yes and no. But Nepal would like to have more understanding from the highest level. WION: How hopeful you are that the issue will be resolved? SP Sharma: I am sure it will be. There are two issues, one is the understanding and implications to Nepal. Secondly, it is linked to political parties in Nepal and they have to have a consensus. I am sure something will come out. WION: Indian Army chief is visiting Nepal, will it be discussed? SP Sharma: I am sure they will. WION: Any update on Border talks? SP Sharma: No I think when both PMs visited each other's countries, there was a press release or press conference by the foreign secretary but many of these issues must be solved amicably and we hope they will start a dialogue soon and we will have some kind of solution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXCLUSIVE: 'Would like understanding from highest level', Nepal envoy on Gorkha recruitment under Agnipath

In India, heavy rainfall has inundated parts of the southern state of Karnataka and in the city of Bengaluru heavy downpour resulted in waterlogging in the low-lying areas.

WION Climate Tracker: Heavy rainfall floods parts of India | Water logging in India's Bengaluru

From Flash floods near river Swat in Pakistan to devotees celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi festival in India, here are some impactful images from around the world on 31 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Flash floods near river Swat in Pakistan; Ganesh Chaturthi festival in India

Nepal has 'stalled' the recruitment of Gorkhas in the Indian Army under the Agnipath scheme. Kathmandu has apprehensions over the 4-year-term of recruits as part of the scheme. How has India responded? Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Nepal suspends Gorkha recruitment under Agnipath scheme

Senior officials from the G20 economies met for climate talks in Bali on Wednesday. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav from India said that the countries with least emissions facing the worst of crisis.

WION Climate Tracker| G20 summit on environment & climate: Leaders gather in Bali to discuss action

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | Indian PM to commission country's first indigenous aircraft carrier on Sept 2

After India’s miserable performance in the 1962 war with China, the need for a separate external intelligence agency was felt. RN Kao, a civil servant, was assigned the task of establishing a national spy agency called R&AW.

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Here's celebrating a plethora of sporting icons and their achievements as they continue to inspire countrymen from all walks of life.

India@75: Sporting icons who inspired countrymen in post-Independence era

With the Asia Cup 2022 edition being held in the UAE at present, here's everything you need to know about the history of the marquee tournament.

Asia Cup: Everything you need to know about the marquee tournament

This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs.

Data compiled by the Border Security Force (BSF) revealed that 107 drone sightings were reported in the first seven months of this year, a slight increase from 2021. 93 out of the drones’ intrusions were detected in Punjab. Additionally, Jammu reported 14 drone intrusions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-with-security-forces-in-shopian-511514">Also read |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Shopian</a>

A BSF officer said, "There are still five months left in this year and activity to smuggle arms and explosives through various routes usually increase towards winters. Also, these are just those drones which our jawans could hear, notice, or locals informed us about. It is very difficult to intercept, stall and deactivate all the drones at such a vast border," said a Hindustan Times report.

A senior official stated that terrorist groups like LeT and its allies in Jammu and Kashmir sent payloads through Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Gurdaspur in Punjab continuously by using&nbsp;Chinese drones to deliver weapons and IEDs in the past two years. Furthermore, Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit the Resistance Front (TRF) attacked Jammu Air Force Station with two drones, using unnamed aerial vehicles (UAV) that dropped two IEDs weighing between 3kg and 5 kg each.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiri-artisans-in-a-remote-village-busy-making-silk-carpets-for-indias-new-parliament-511444">Also read |&nbsp;Kashmiri artisans in a remote village busy making silk carpets for India’s new parliament</a>

With the assistance of local police, BSF has attempted to shoot down several drones and has also implemented a number of technologies, such as "Anti-Drone Guns", to obstruct the drones’ radio and GPS signals and compel them to land.

According to experts, Pakistan-based groups use drones to avoid capture of men and reduce costs.

Experts believe that drones are replacing human mules and helping in terrorist infiltration; they are easy to use from a covered location or building on the other side of the border.

(With inputs from agencies)

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This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs.

This year, drone intrusions at the Indo-Pak border have virtually doubled as terrorist organisations and drug traffickers operating from Pakistan have stepped up their use to transport weapons and drugs. Data compiled by the Border Security Force (BSF) revealed that 107 drone sightings were reported in the first seven months of this year, a slight increase from 2021. 93 out of the drones’ intrusions were detected in Punjab. Additionally, Jammu reported 14 drone intrusions. Also read | J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Shopian A BSF officer said, "There are still five months left in this year and activity to smuggle arms and explosives through various routes usually increase towards winters. Also, these are just those drones which our jawans could hear, notice, or locals informed us about. It is very difficult to intercept, stall and deactivate all the drones at such a vast border," said a Hindustan Times report. A senior official stated that terrorist groups like LeT and its allies in Jammu and Kashmir sent payloads through Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Gurdaspur in Punjab continuously by using Chinese drones to deliver weapons and IEDs in the past two years. Furthermore, Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit the Resistance Front (TRF) attacked Jammu Air Force Station with two drones, using unnamed aerial vehicles (UAV) that dropped two IEDs weighing between 3kg and 5 kg each. Also read | Kashmiri artisans in a remote village busy making silk carpets for India’s new parliament With the assistance of local police, BSF has attempted to shoot down several drones and has also implemented a number of technologies, such as "Anti-Drone Guns", to obstruct the drones’ radio and GPS signals and compel them to land. According to experts, Pakistan-based groups use drones to avoid capture of men and reduce costs. Experts believe that drones are replacing human mules and helping in terrorist infiltration; they are easy to use from a covered location or building on the other side of the border. (With inputs from agencies)

Drone intrusions across border from Pakistan increased compared to 2021

According to Reuters poll, economists predict that India's GDP grew by 15.2 percent in April to June 2022 financial quarter. This is compared to India's GDP during the same time period a year ago. This would make the last financial quarter India's best for growth in a year.

Economists expect India's growth rate to dip

An anti-pollution motorcycle helmet in India has given 'A breath of fresh air' to daily commuters who are forced to commute in polluted cities like India's capital New Delhi.

Tech in Trend: Anti-pollution motorcycle helmet in India gives 'A breath of fresh air'

India's top court has observed that unmarried partnerships and queer relationships too constitute a family. The Supreme Court has said that atypical families are as real as their traditional counterpart. Does this pave the way for legalising same-sex marriages in India? Palki Sharma brings you a report

Gravitas | India's top court: Queer relationships too constitute a family

China's Ambassador to Sri Lanka alleged that Colombo was "unreasonably pressured" to cancel the docking permit to a Chinese ship. The Indian mission in Colombo has hit back. It referred to the "militarisation of Taiwan" in a statement. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India hits back at China's Envoy to Sri Lanka

An Indian firm has found a unique way to battle pollution. It has come up with innovative Anti-pollution helmets to give bikers a breath of fresh air.

WION Climate Tracker | Indian firm makes world's 1st Anti-pollution helmet for riders' relief

India has dispatched over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan so far, ensuring its position as a contiguous neighbour and long-standing partner of Kabul.

At a United Nations Security Council, the country`s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj highlighted the historical and civilisational linkages to the Afghan people.

"As we have repeatedly stated at the security council, India has direct stakes in ensuring the return of the peace and stability, giving our position as a contiguous neighbour and long-standing partner of Afghanistan. As well as our strong historical and civilisational linkages to the Afghan people," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-chief-requests-countries-to-resume-sending-development-aid-to-afghanistan-511438">Also read |&nbsp;UN chief requests countries to resume sending development aid to Afghanistan</a>

Speaking about the humanitarian need to the Afgan people, the UN Permanent Representative said that India has dispatched several shipments of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.

"In response to the humanitarian need to the Afgan people, as well as the urgent appeals made by the united nations, India has dispatched several shipments of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. This include 32 tonnes of medical assistance in 10 batches, which include -- essential life-saving medicines, anti-TB medicines and 50,0000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

"These medical consignments have been handed over to the World Health Organisation and to the Indira Gandhi Children Hospital in Kabul," she said, adding that "India has also dispatched over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan so far.

"Ruchira Kamboj further said: "to ensure a fair and just distribution of India`s wheat assistance, the government of India has signed an agreement with the UN world food programme for the distribution of wheat within Afghanistan.

"An Indian technical team has also been deployed at the Indian Embassy in Kabul in order to closely monitor and coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders for the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance and the continuation of our engagement with the Afghanis people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan-is-crumbling-under-the-taliban-511132">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan is crumbling under the rule of Taliban, US promises to send aid</a>

India reiterated its commitment that humanitarian assistance should be based on neutrality, impartiality and independence. India also expressed concern at the development of Afghanistan which directly impacts well being of women and girls.

The Taliban entered Kabul on August 15 last year, causing the US-backed government to step down. Later in September, the outfit announced the composition of the new interim government of Afghanistan.

The country is currently battered by the deepening economic, humanitarian, and security crisis following the Taliban takeover. The international community, from governments to non-governmental organizations, has been providing various assistance to the Afghan people.&nbsp;

India has dispatched over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan so far, ensuring its position as a contiguous neighbour and long-standing partner of Kabul.

India has dispatched over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan so far, ensuring its position as a contiguous neighbour and long-standing partner of Kabul. At a United Nations Security Council, the country`s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj highlighted the historical and civilisational linkages to the Afghan people. "As we have repeatedly stated at the security council, India has direct stakes in ensuring the return of the peace and stability, giving our position as a contiguous neighbour and long-standing partner of Afghanistan. As well as our strong historical and civilisational linkages to the Afghan people," she said. Also read | UN chief requests countries to resume sending development aid to Afghanistan Speaking about the humanitarian need to the Afgan people, the UN Permanent Representative said that India has dispatched several shipments of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. "In response to the humanitarian need to the Afgan people, as well as the urgent appeals made by the united nations, India has dispatched several shipments of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. This include 32 tonnes of medical assistance in 10 batches, which include -- essential life-saving medicines, anti-TB medicines and 50,0000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines. "These medical consignments have been handed over to the World Health Organisation and to the Indira Gandhi Children Hospital in Kabul," she said, adding that "India has also dispatched over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan so far. "Ruchira Kamboj further said: "to ensure a fair and just distribution of India`s wheat assistance, the government of India has signed an agreement with the UN world food programme for the distribution of wheat within Afghanistan. "An Indian technical team has also been deployed at the Indian Embassy in Kabul in order to closely monitor and coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders for the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance and the continuation of our engagement with the Afghanis people. Also read | Afghanistan is crumbling under the rule of Taliban, US promises to send aid India reiterated its commitment that humanitarian assistance should be based on neutrality, impartiality and independence. India also expressed concern at the development of Afghanistan which directly impacts well being of women and girls. The Taliban entered Kabul on August 15 last year, causing the US-backed government to step down. Later in September, the outfit announced the composition of the new interim government of Afghanistan. The country is currently battered by the deepening economic, humanitarian, and security crisis following the Taliban takeover. The international community, from governments to non-governmental organizations, has been providing various assistance to the Afghan people.

Over 40,000 metric tonnes of wheat dispatched so far to Afghanistan: India at UN

India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women.

Reportedly, Delhi saw a more than 40 per cent rise in crimes against women in 2021, compared to a year prior. A total of 13,500 crimes were reported against the fairer sex in 2021, compared to a little under 10,000 in 2020.

Of the 43,414 crimes reported against women in 19 major cities across the country, Delhi accounted for 32.20 per cent of the cases, suggesting that law and order authorities were not working properly to create a safe environment for women.

Amongst the category of crimes, over 3,948 cases of abduction and kidnapping were reported while 2,022 cases of assault on women with an intent to outrage their modesty were registered by the Bureau.

&nbsp;

Read more |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncrb-data-shows-increase-in-deaths-by-suicide-in-2021-511188">India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021</a>

Similarly, 1,357 reported cases were under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (girl child victims only) while 833 cases of girl child rape came from the capital city alone.&nbsp;

However, what may come as most surprising is the cases of dowry deaths, despite a concerted campaign by the central and state government to discourage dowry.

According to the data, the national capital witnessed 136 cases of dowry deaths, which again accounted for 36.36 per cent of the total cases.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-thought-pm-modi-was-a-crude-man-but-he-showed-humanity-ghulam-nabi-azad-511185">'I thought PM Modi was a crude man but he showed humanity': Ghulam Nabi Azad&nbsp;</a>

Delhi was followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru in the list with the two metropolitan cities accounting for 12.76 per cent and 7.2 per cent of the total crimes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women.

India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women. Reportedly, Delhi saw a more than 40 per cent rise in crimes against women in 2021, compared to a year prior. A total of 13,500 crimes were reported against the fairer sex in 2021, compared to a little under 10,000 in 2020. Of the 43,414 crimes reported against women in 19 major cities across the country, Delhi accounted for 32.20 per cent of the cases, suggesting that law and order authorities were not working properly to create a safe environment for women. Amongst the category of crimes, over 3,948 cases of abduction and kidnapping were reported while 2,022 cases of assault on women with an intent to outrage their modesty were registered by the Bureau. Read more | India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021 Similarly, 1,357 reported cases were under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (girl child victims only) while 833 cases of girl child rape came from the capital city alone. However, what may come as most surprising is the cases of dowry deaths, despite a concerted campaign by the central and state government to discourage dowry. According to the data, the national capital witnessed 136 cases of dowry deaths, which again accounted for 36.36 per cent of the total cases. Read more: 'I thought PM Modi was a crude man but he showed humanity': Ghulam Nabi Azad Delhi was followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru in the list with the two metropolitan cities accounting for 12.76 per cent and 7.2 per cent of the total crimes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women

At the higher levels of competitive boxing, it is not enough if one just packs a punch, one must be able to track the punch as well. Factors such as punch force, upper and lower body movement need to be closely analysed and evaluated to improve a pugilist's performance. It is towards this goal that teams from the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras(IIT-M) and Inspire Institute of Sports, Karnataka are working on a cost-effective, technology-driven solution that will help boxers and their coaches.&nbsp;

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Dubbed 'Smartboxer', this analytics platform is meant to provide detailed analysis of a boxer's performance based on wearable sensors. These sensors would be embedded in the gloves (for punch force analysis), foot pressure sensor (for ground reaction force), in addition to sensors to track upper and lower body movement. Video cameras placed in the ring would also identify the left and right limbs of the boxer, while classifying his/her movements as attack or defence or feint (a deceptive or pretended blow, thrust, especially in boxing).

According to Dr. Babji Srinivasan, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Mechanics, IIT Madras, “The smart boxer system integrates data from video streams and multiple IoT devices (sensors). The information extracted from this multivariate data provides fight analytics that can not only help coaches but also the judges to quantify the key traits of boxing champions."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-india-pakistan-can-square-off-again-in-super-4-round-at-asia-cup-511386">Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup</a>

Once the data is gathered from the sensors and camera, it will be merged to provide comprehensive boxing analytics and key traits of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-liger-review-vijay-deverakondas-film-is-so-bad-that-you-would-want-to-cry-510307">boxer</a>. These traits which include quantity and quality of punch, dominance of the engagements and competitiveness are evaluated and used for scoring in Olympic boxing matches.&nbsp;

WION queried about the progress made in developing 'Smartboxer' and how this compares against International market offerings. In response, Prof. Ranganathan Srinivasan, Head, Center of Excellence for Sports Science and Analytics, IIT Madras said that boxing data is being collected over the last two months and the fundamental algorithms(boxer identification, ring awareness) are in testing phase, while few more algorithms(calculating boxing metrics (such as no of punches, type of punch etc.) would be developed within a year. He expressed confidence that the team was working towards developing it in time for the 2024 Olympics.&nbsp;

He added, UK has an advanced analytics software called iBoxer and that such software is not made available to other countries, given the highly-competitive nature and prestige of the Olympics. Hence, he explained that the know-how must be developed by each country for its advancement in the Olympics.&nbsp;

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At the higher levels of competitive boxing, it is not enough if one just packs a punch, one must be able to track the punch as well. Factors such as punch force, upper and lower body movement need to be closely analysed and evaluated to improve a pugilist's performance.

At the higher levels of competitive boxing, it is not enough if one just packs a punch, one must be able to track the punch as well. Factors such as punch force, upper and lower body movement need to be closely analysed and evaluated to improve a pugilist's performance. It is towards this goal that teams from the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras(IIT-M) and Inspire Institute of Sports, Karnataka are working on a cost-effective, technology-driven solution that will help boxers and their coaches. Dubbed 'Smartboxer', this analytics platform is meant to provide detailed analysis of a boxer's performance based on wearable sensors. These sensors would be embedded in the gloves (for punch force analysis), foot pressure sensor (for ground reaction force), in addition to sensors to track upper and lower body movement. Video cameras placed in the ring would also identify the left and right limbs of the boxer, while classifying his/her movements as attack or defence or feint (a deceptive or pretended blow, thrust, especially in boxing). According to Dr. Babji Srinivasan, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Mechanics, IIT Madras, “The smart boxer system integrates data from video streams and multiple IoT devices (sensors). The information extracted from this multivariate data provides fight analytics that can not only help coaches but also the judges to quantify the key traits of boxing champions." Also read | Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup Once the data is gathered from the sensors and camera, it will be merged to provide comprehensive boxing analytics and key traits of the boxer. These traits which include quantity and quality of punch, dominance of the engagements and competitiveness are evaluated and used for scoring in Olympic boxing matches. WION queried about the progress made in developing 'Smartboxer' and how this compares against International market offerings. In response, Prof. Ranganathan Srinivasan, Head, Center of Excellence for Sports Science and Analytics, IIT Madras said that boxing data is being collected over the last two months and the fundamental algorithms(boxer identification, ring awareness) are in testing phase, while few more algorithms(calculating boxing metrics (such as no of punches, type of punch etc.) would be developed within a year. He expressed confidence that the team was working towards developing it in time for the 2024 Olympics. He added, UK has an advanced analytics software called iBoxer and that such software is not made available to other countries, given the highly-competitive nature and prestige of the Olympics. Hence, he explained that the know-how must be developed by each country for its advancement in the Olympics. Also WATCH | Tech Talk: Faster charging could lead to smaller & cheaper EV batteries

'Tracking a punch' - IIT tech to help Indian boxers analyse punches, up chances of Olympic medals

India is all set to commission its first-ever indigenously built aircraft carrier, the INS Vikrant. Before the much-awaited induction, take a sneak peak into the Navy's new mean machine. How does it boost India's maritime security? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | India to induct first indigenous aircraft carrier

The 10th edition of the national maritime search and rescue exercise 2022 was inaugurated in Chennai. The two-day exercise will be conducted under the national maritime search and rescue board and is hosted by the Indian coast guard.

WION Dispatch: Indian coast guard concludes 2-day SAREX-22

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