<p>Warnings regarding a controversial new transaction tax from crypto exchanges in India are turning out to be accurate, with volumes evaporating after the levy came into effect, reported Bloomberg.</p>

<p>Bloomberg cited data from CoinGecko, which revealed that soon after the 1% tax-deductible at source became effective as of July 1, three crypto exchanges, namely, ZebPay, WazirX, and CoinDCX, suffered declines ranging from 60% and 87% in the value of daily trading.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/crypto-industry-fears-contagion-as-bitcoin-slips-under-20000-490041">Crypto industry fears contagion as bitcoin slips under $20,000</a></strong></p>

<p>As a result of plunging prices, unfavourable tax treatment, and difficulty in getting cash onto exchanges, the trading levels were already depressed previously, and the new tax contributed to the depression of the once-hot market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For instance, as per CoinGecko data, $3.8 million worth of trading was done by Binance-backed WazirX on July 2, which is the day after the tax took effect, also known by the acronym TDS.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Why is the crypto market crashing?</strong></p>

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<p>Trading worth the same amount could have been completed in close to&nbsp;two hours during the previous year.</p>

<p>WazirX Vice President Rajagopal Menon claimed that, on the one hand, long-term crypto holders are still buying and selling; however, market makers and high-frequency traders are no longer going to continue.</p>

<p>According to Menon, traders are currently doing more peer-to-peer trading and shifting to seemingly decentralized exchanges.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/crypto-crash-bitcoin-last-down-74-at-18915-489531">Crypto crash: Bitcoin last down 7.4 per cent at $18,915</a></strong></p>

<p>In February, a tax regime for digital assets was introduced by the government consisting of the TDS and a flat 30% tax on income from crypto investments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new tax regime is treating crypto differently from stocks and bonds, banning the offsetting of losses on such assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Warnings regarding a controversial new transaction tax from crypto exchanges in India are turning out to be accurate, with volumes evaporating after the levy came into effect, reported Bloomberg.

Warnings regarding a controversial new transaction tax from crypto exchanges in India are turning out to be accurate, with volumes evaporating after the levy came into effect, reported Bloomberg. Bloomberg cited data from CoinGecko, which revealed that soon after the 1% tax-deductible at source became effective as of July 1, three crypto exchanges, namely, ZebPay, WazirX, and CoinDCX, suffered declines ranging from 60% and 87% in the value of daily trading. Also read | Crypto industry fears contagion as bitcoin slips under $20,000 As a result of plunging prices, unfavourable tax treatment, and difficulty in getting cash onto exchanges, the trading levels were already depressed previously, and the new tax contributed to the depression of the once-hot market. For instance, as per CoinGecko data, $3.8 million worth of trading was done by Binance-backed WazirX on July 2, which is the day after the tax took effect, also known by the acronym TDS. Watch | Why is the crypto market crashing? Trading worth the same amount could have been completed in close to two hours during the previous year. WazirX Vice President Rajagopal Menon claimed that, on the one hand, long-term crypto holders are still buying and selling; however, market makers and high-frequency traders are no longer going to continue. According to Menon, traders are currently doing more peer-to-peer trading and shifting to seemingly decentralized exchanges. Also read | Crypto crash: Bitcoin last down 7.4 per cent at $18,915 In February, a tax regime for digital assets was introduced by the government consisting of the TDS and a flat 30% tax on income from crypto investments. The new tax regime is treating crypto differently from stocks and bonds, banning the offsetting of losses on such assets. 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.

Trading on India's crypto exchanges decline up to 87% as new tax kicks in

<p>More than 100 Lankan nationals have fled the crippling economic crisis in their home country to arrive on Indian shores, since March this year. A group of eight Lankan Tamils, including a one-and-a-half-year-old child were among those that arrived at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, during the wee hours of Tuesday. In recent months, it has become routine for Sri Lankan nationals to take risky, illegal boat rides from the Northern parts of the island nation, in the hope of being brought to Indian shores (in Tamil Nadu), where they can live in refugee camps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest batch of Lankan nationals are said to be natives of Valvettithurai in Jaffna and had fled their home country after the prices of essential commodities became unsustainable with their meagre income.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Sasikala, who arrived on Indian shores with her family, Rice was being sold at Rs.400per kg (approx 1 USD), sugar at Rs.350 per kg, kerosene at Rs.1,200 per litre(approx 4 USD). In addition to the skyrocketing prices, the wait times for buying essentials amid the shortage is also extremely long.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is understood that the eight members paid for their boat ride by selling their home, jewellery and other belongings. Those fleeing the island nation and heading for Tamil Nadu, have predominantly been members of the Lankan Tamil community. With a shared language and culture, the Tamils of Sri Lanka and the people of Tamil Nadu in India share an umbilical connection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Indian state that is nearest to Sri Lanka and also as one that shares deep cultural and linguistic ties with the Lankan Tamils, leaders in Tamil Nadu have always voiced out for the welfare of Lankan Tamils.</p>

<p>While the Government of India has been at the forefront of helping Sri Lanka by providing financial aid, fuel, and crucial support at International fora, the Tamil Nadu Government has also been sending(via the Indian High Commission in Colombo) ship-loads of food, medicines and milk powder, to provide temporary succour to the people of the island nation.&nbsp;</p>

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More than 100 Lankan nationals have fled the crippling economic crisis in their home country to arrive on Indian shores, since March this year. A group of eight Lankan Tamils, including a one-and-a-half-year-old child were among those that arrived at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, during the wee hours of Tuesday.

More than 100 Lankan nationals have fled the crippling economic crisis in their home country to arrive on Indian shores, since March this year. A group of eight Lankan Tamils, including a one-and-a-half-year-old child were among those that arrived at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, during the wee hours of Tuesday. In recent months, it has become routine for Sri Lankan nationals to take risky, illegal boat rides from the Northern parts of the island nation, in the hope of being brought to Indian shores (in Tamil Nadu), where they can live in refugee camps. The latest batch of Lankan nationals are said to be natives of Valvettithurai in Jaffna and had fled their home country after the prices of essential commodities became unsustainable with their meagre income. According to Sasikala, who arrived on Indian shores with her family, Rice was being sold at Rs.400per kg (approx 1 USD), sugar at Rs.350 per kg, kerosene at Rs.1,200 per litre(approx 4 USD). In addition to the skyrocketing prices, the wait times for buying essentials amid the shortage is also extremely long. It is understood that the eight members paid for their boat ride by selling their home, jewellery and other belongings. Those fleeing the island nation and heading for Tamil Nadu, have predominantly been members of the Lankan Tamil community. With a shared language and culture, the Tamils of Sri Lanka and the people of Tamil Nadu in India share an umbilical connection. As the Indian state that is nearest to Sri Lanka and also as one that shares deep cultural and linguistic ties with the Lankan Tamils, leaders in Tamil Nadu have always voiced out for the welfare of Lankan Tamils. While the Government of India has been at the forefront of helping Sri Lanka by providing financial aid, fuel, and crucial support at International fora, the Tamil Nadu Government has also been sending(via the Indian High Commission in Colombo) ship-loads of food, medicines and milk powder, to provide temporary succour to the people of the island nation. 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.

8 more Lankan nationals arrive on Indian shores; total influx surpasses 100-mark

Millions are affected due to the monsoon fury in South Asia, over 200 have died in India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh authorities brace for water-borne diseases. Scientists have blamed climate change for this monsoon fury.

WION Climate Tracker | Millions affected by deadly floods in South Asia

<p>After great anticipation, the World Bank&nbsp;recently&nbsp;released&nbsp;'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment.</p>

<p>In its Global Findex Database 2021, the World Bank highlighted that account ownership worldwide increased by 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to reach 76&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the global adult population. Recent growth in account ownership has been widespread across dozens of developing economies and most of the newly account opened in India and China.</p>

<p>This report indicates that "74 per cent&nbsp;of men had an account in developing countries whereas women are six&nbsp;points behind, accounts for 68 per cent". According to the report, gaps in rural areas exist but this report couldn't quantity the urban-rural gap. However in developing countries like India and Bangladesh, there is virtually no difference in account ownership between adults in urban and rural areas.</p>

<p><strong>Here are the major insights from the report:</strong></p>

<p><strong>1.&nbsp;</strong>Receiving payment directly into bank account is a gateway for using other financial services such as relying on an account to save and borrow. 83&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adult in developing nation who received digital payment also made a digital payment, up from 79&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in 2017.</p>

<p><strong>2.&nbsp;</strong>Mobile money has become enabler of financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa,&nbsp;especially for women. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to all 11 economies in which a larger share of adults-only had mobile money account rather that a normal bank account. The spread of mobile money has created better opportunities to serve women, poor people and other groups who have been traditionally excluded from formal financial services. According to the report, around three&nbsp;out of&nbsp;four&nbsp;mobile owners in Sub-Saharan Africa used their mobile money account to make or receive at least one payment that was not person-to-person.​</p>

<p><strong>3.&nbsp;</strong>COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed growth in the use of digital payments. In developing countries in 2021, 18&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults paid utility bills directly from an account. About one third of these paid bills online for the first time. In India, more than 80 million adults made their first digital payment to merchant during pandemic whereas in China, 82&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults made a digital payment in 2022, including over 100 million adults (11 per cent) who did so for the first time after the start of pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>4.&nbsp;</strong>Government, private employers and financial providers could help expand financial access and usage among the unbanked by lowering barriers and improving infrastructure. This report indicates new opportunities to drive financial inclusion by increasing account ownership among the unbanked and expanding the use of financial among those who already have account - in particular by leveraging digital payments.</p>

<p><strong>5.&nbsp;</strong>Adults in developing countries are more likely to worry about finances than adults in high-income countries. Concerns around medical expenses are highest in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where 64 per cent&nbsp;of adults are very worried and the lowest in East Asia and the Pacific, where 38&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults are very worried.​​​</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>

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After great anticipation, the World Bank recently released 'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment.

After great anticipation, the World Bank recently released 'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment. In its Global Findex Database 2021, the World Bank highlighted that account ownership worldwide increased by 50 per cent to reach 76 per cent of the global adult population. Recent growth in account ownership has been widespread across dozens of developing economies and most of the newly account opened in India and China. This report indicates that "74 per cent of men had an account in developing countries whereas women are six points behind, accounts for 68 per cent". According to the report, gaps in rural areas exist but this report couldn't quantity the urban-rural gap. However in developing countries like India and Bangladesh, there is virtually no difference in account ownership between adults in urban and rural areas. Here are the major insights from the report: 1. Receiving payment directly into bank account is a gateway for using other financial services such as relying on an account to save and borrow. 83 per cent of adult in developing nation who received digital payment also made a digital payment, up from 79 per cent in 2017. 2. Mobile money has become enabler of financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially for women. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to all 11 economies in which a larger share of adults-only had mobile money account rather that a normal bank account. The spread of mobile money has created better opportunities to serve women, poor people and other groups who have been traditionally excluded from formal financial services. According to the report, around three out of four mobile owners in Sub-Saharan Africa used their mobile money account to make or receive at least one payment that was not person-to-person. 3. COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed growth in the use of digital payments. In developing countries in 2021, 18 per cent of adults paid utility bills directly from an account. About one third of these paid bills online for the first time. In India, more than 80 million adults made their first digital payment to merchant during pandemic whereas in China, 82 per cent of adults made a digital payment in 2022, including over 100 million adults (11 per cent) who did so for the first time after the start of pandemic. 4. Government, private employers and financial providers could help expand financial access and usage among the unbanked by lowering barriers and improving infrastructure. This report indicates new opportunities to drive financial inclusion by increasing account ownership among the unbanked and expanding the use of financial among those who already have account - in particular by leveraging digital payments. 5. Adults in developing countries are more likely to worry about finances than adults in high-income countries. Concerns around medical expenses are highest in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where 64 per cent of adults are very worried and the lowest in East Asia and the Pacific, where 38 per cent of adults are very worried. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pandemic catalysed growth in use of digital payments: Report

Millions of Hindu devotees converged in the Indian city of Puri city to participate in the Jagannath Rath Yatra. It is a chariot celebration of Lord Jagannath and is being held for the first time in person since the pandemic.

Millions throng for first in-person Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra since pandemic

A Kashmiri Taekwondo player is going to represent India at the international level. Bilal Ahmad has been training since his school days.

Kashmiri Taekwondo player to represent India

<p>After the fall of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray posted a picture on Instagram where he has been quite active. He posted a picture of the former chief minster Uddhav Thackeray, also his father with the caption “Always important to follow the right footsteps." Aaditya praised his supporters and claimed that the actual power came from their support and constant blessing.</p>

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<p>Aaditya posted on Father’s Day, a picture of him as a child on Uddhav’s lap in his post before the political turmoil. The caption read, “Happy Father's Day to my constant inspiration and strength!”</p>

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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-assembly-rahul-narwekar-elected-as-the-new-speaker-shinde-govt-to-face-floor-test-july-4-494024">Maharashtra Assembly: Rahul Narwekar elected as the new speaker, Shinde govt to face floor test July 4</a></strong></p>

<p>During Shinde’s rebellion, Aaditya revealed that Uddhav Thackeray offered Eknath Shine the chief minster’s post but at that time he broke down in tears. However, a month later, he instigated this dissidence in cooperation with the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;End to political drama in Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde becomes Maharashtra's next CM</strong></p>

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<p>The mutiny against Uddhav Thackeray led to the collapse of Maha Vikas Aghadi’s administration, a coalition of Sena, NCP and the Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/once-an-auto-driver-eknath-shinde-is-now-the-man-of-the-moment-in-indian-politics-493329">India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment</a></strong></p>

<p>After Uddhav Thackeray, BJP leader Eknath Shinde became the chief minster and the former CM of the state Devendra Fadnavis took oath as vice chief minister. On July 4, the current chief minister Shinde will have to prove his majority in the state’s assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although, the new speaker for the state’s assembly has been chosen. Rahul Narwekar has appointed as the speaker with 164 votes in favour.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the fall of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray posted a picture on Instagram where he has been quite active. He posted a picture of the former chief minster Uddhav Thackeray, also his father with the caption “Always important to follow the right footsteps.

After the fall of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray posted a picture on Instagram where he has been quite active. He posted a picture of the former chief minster Uddhav Thackeray, also his father with the caption “Always important to follow the right footsteps." Aaditya praised his supporters and claimed that the actual power came from their support and constant blessing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aaditya Thackeray (@adityathackeray) × Aaditya posted on Father’s Day, a picture of him as a child on Uddhav’s lap in his post before the political turmoil. The caption read, “Happy Father's Day to my constant inspiration and strength!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aaditya Thackeray (@adityathackeray) × Also read | Maharashtra Assembly: Rahul Narwekar elected as the new speaker, Shinde govt to face floor test July 4 During Shinde’s rebellion, Aaditya revealed that Uddhav Thackeray offered Eknath Shine the chief minster’s post but at that time he broke down in tears. However, a month later, he instigated this dissidence in cooperation with the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP). Watch | End to political drama in Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde becomes Maharashtra's next CM The mutiny against Uddhav Thackeray led to the collapse of Maha Vikas Aghadi’s administration, a coalition of Sena, NCP and the Congress. Also read | India: Ex-auto driver to Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde is man of moment After Uddhav Thackeray, BJP leader Eknath Shinde became the chief minster and the former CM of the state Devendra Fadnavis took oath as vice chief minister. On July 4, the current chief minister Shinde will have to prove his majority in the state’s assembly. Although, the new speaker for the state’s assembly has been chosen. Rahul Narwekar has appointed as the speaker with 164 votes in favour. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharastra politics: Aditya Thackeray’s first Instagram post after dad Uddhav quits as CMs

In a humanitarian effort to help crisis-hit Afghanistan, India has sent 2,500 tonnes of wheat from the Attari-Wagah border. This is the 15th wheat consignment sent from India.

India sends 2500 tonnes of wheat as aid to Afghanistan

<p>Singapore-based IGSS ventures signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu Government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, for setting up a semiconductor park in the Southern Indian state. As per the MoU, the Singaporean firm will invest Rs.25,600crores, over the next five years to establish a high-tech semiconductor park. This project is estimated to provide direct employment to 1,500 persons and indirect employment to 25,000 persons involved in circuit design, vendors selling secondary products, testing semiconductors etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a statement from the Tamil Nadu Government, IGSS Ventures will launch its semiconductor fab named ‘Project Suria’. The firm has also applied for the Central Government's Rs 76,000-crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for semiconductor manufacturing in India. This project is expected to come up at a facility that spans 300acres and the location for the same is being worked out, said State Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu.</p>

<p>The Minister added that over the last year, the State government has signed MoUs to the tune of Rs 94,975 crore with 132 companies to generate 2.26 lakh jobs.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/long-queues-missing-baggage-halted-travel-plans-aviation-chaos-in-uk-us-and-europe-494030">Long queues, missing baggage, halted travel plans: Aviation chaos in UK, US and Europe</a></p>

<p>While this prospective facility will be the first of its kind in the Southern Indian state, it also gains significance given the ongoing global shortage of electronic chips, which has caused delays and a significant impact on the production of electronics, automobiles and several products across categories.</p>

<p>The company website describes them thus, "IGSS Ventures is a technology investment holding company focused on addressing today’s most challenging, high-impact problems. As a ‘one-stop’ semiconductor solutions hub, we enable the development and commercialising of disruptive hybrid semiconductor technologies that go beyond Moore’s Law".&nbsp;</p>

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Singapore-based IGSS ventures signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu Government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, for setting up a semiconductor park in the Southern Indian state.

Singapore-based IGSS ventures signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu Government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, for setting up a semiconductor park in the Southern Indian state. As per the MoU, the Singaporean firm will invest Rs.25,600crores, over the next five years to establish a high-tech semiconductor park. This project is estimated to provide direct employment to 1,500 persons and indirect employment to 25,000 persons involved in circuit design, vendors selling secondary products, testing semiconductors etc. According to a statement from the Tamil Nadu Government, IGSS Ventures will launch its semiconductor fab named ‘Project Suria’. The firm has also applied for the Central Government's Rs 76,000-crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for semiconductor manufacturing in India. This project is expected to come up at a facility that spans 300acres and the location for the same is being worked out, said State Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu. The Minister added that over the last year, the State government has signed MoUs to the tune of Rs 94,975 crore with 132 companies to generate 2.26 lakh jobs. Also Read: Long queues, missing baggage, halted travel plans: Aviation chaos in UK, US and Europe While this prospective facility will be the first of its kind in the Southern Indian state, it also gains significance given the ongoing global shortage of electronic chips, which has caused delays and a significant impact on the production of electronics, automobiles and several products across categories. The company website describes them thus, "IGSS Ventures is a technology investment holding company focused on addressing today’s most challenging, high-impact problems. As a ‘one-stop’ semiconductor solutions hub, we enable the development and commercialising of disruptive hybrid semiconductor technologies that go beyond Moore’s Law". 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: Singaporean firm inks MoU with TN Govt to establish semiconductor park at $3.5bn

<p class="MsoNormal">The four-day old Shiv Sena-BJP government will be put to a floor test on July 4 during the special two-day session of the Legislative Assembly beginning on Sunday (July 3). The election for Speaker of the House began 11 am. The two probable candidates were Rajan Salvi, Sena MLA and supporter of Uddhav Thackeray, a joint candidate of the Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress and first-time BJP legislator Rahul Narwekar. Narwekar received a total of 164 votes in favour and 107 against. The BJP member took the charge as the Speaker of Maharashtra Assembly chanting, “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji", "Jai Sri Ram", "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "Vande Mataram.”</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">During the count, Samajwadi Party MLAs Abu Amzi and Raees Shaikh remained seated. Not just this, Farukh Anwar from AIMIM, two MLAs from SP and one MLA from AIMIM chose not to participate in the assembly.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BJP’s Rahul Narwekar is the new Speaker of Maharashtra Assembly. Registers a comfortable win.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow’s floor test should be a smooth sail too…</p>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1543480817363607552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My brother and friend BJP's Rahul Narwekar wins Speaker Election in Maharashtra Assembly with massive mandate<br />
<br />
Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Maharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mieknathshinde?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mieknathshinde</a> ji <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> ji for this victory<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/C4qNIPNmK3">pic.twitter.com/C4qNIPNmK3</a></p>
— Shehzad Jai Hind (@Shehzad_Ind) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shehzad_Ind/status/1543479473898541056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journey-towards-ones-decline-raj-thackeray-posts-sarcastic-tweet-after-uddhavs-resignation-493252">'...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A day after Thackeray’s resignation as the chief minister of the state, Eknath Shinde and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis met with governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and asserted their right to form the state government. However, during a joint press conference held in Mumbai on Thursday (June 30), who earlier served as the chief minister of the state from 2014-2019, declared that he will leave the administration but later took the oath to serve as the Deputy CM of the state.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;End to political drama in Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde becomes Maharashtra's next CM</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The 2019 assembly elections were contested jointly by BJP and shiv Sena, however the disagreements emerged over the position of chief minister.&nbsp;</div>

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<p class="MsoNormal"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><o:p></o:p></p>


The four-day old Shiv Sena-BJP government will be put to a floor test on July 4 during the special two-day session of the Legislative Assembly beginning on Sunday (July 3).

The four-day old Shiv Sena-BJP government will be put to a floor test on July 4 during the special two-day session of the Legislative Assembly beginning on Sunday (July 3). The election for Speaker of the House began 11 am. The two probable candidates were Rajan Salvi, Sena MLA and supporter of Uddhav Thackeray, a joint candidate of the Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress and first-time BJP legislator Rahul Narwekar. Narwekar received a total of 164 votes in favour and 107 against. The BJP member took the charge as the Speaker of Maharashtra Assembly chanting, “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji", "Jai Sri Ram", "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "Vande Mataram.” During the count, Samajwadi Party MLAs Abu Amzi and Raees Shaikh remained seated. Not just this, Farukh Anwar from AIMIM, two MLAs from SP and one MLA from AIMIM chose not to participate in the assembly. BJP’s Rahul Narwekar is the new Speaker of Maharashtra Assembly. Registers a comfortable win. Tomorrow’s floor test should be a smooth sail too… — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 3, 2022 × My brother and friend BJP's Rahul Narwekar wins Speaker Election in Maharashtra Assembly with massive mandate Congratulations to @BJP4Maharashtra @mieknathshinde ji @Dev_Fadnavis ji for this victory #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/C4qNIPNmK3 — Shehzad Jai Hind (@Shehzad_Ind) July 3, 2022 × Also read | '...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation A day after Thackeray’s resignation as the chief minister of the state, Eknath Shinde and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis met with governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and asserted their right to form the state government. However, during a joint press conference held in Mumbai on Thursday (June 30), who earlier served as the chief minister of the state from 2014-2019, declared that he will leave the administration but later took the oath to serve as the Deputy CM of the state. Watch | End to political drama in Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde becomes Maharashtra's next CM The 2019 assembly elections were contested jointly by BJP and shiv Sena, however the disagreements emerged over the position of chief minister. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra Assembly: Rahul Narwekar elected as the new speaker, Shinde govt to face floor test July 4

India has raised its basic import duty on gold to 12.5% from 7.5%, as the world's second biggest consumer of the precious metal tries to dampen demand and bring down the trade deficit.

Plunging local currency pushes India to raise taxes on gold, oil

Fourteen people were killed and several others are feared trapped in the rubble of an under-construction railway site at Indian state Manipur's Noney district which was hit by a massive landslide.

WION Climate Tracker: Massive landslide in Northeast India leaves at least 14 dead

<p>Toyota Motor Corp on Friday unveiled its first mass market hybrid car for India, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), charting a new course for the Japanese automaker in one of the world's fastest growing car markets.</p>

<p>The Urban Cruiser Hyryder SUV, the first car to be built by Toyota as part of a global alliance with Suzuki Motor Corp, will compete with Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Motor Corp in a segment that accounts for a large portion of auto sales in India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/toyota-subaru-shares-drop-on-recalls-of-their-first-ev-models-491242">Toyota, Subaru shares drop on recalls of their first EV models</a></strong></p>

<p>The new model will be an "ultimate game changer" for the company in India's electrified auto space, Vikram Kirloskar, vice chairman of local unit Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said at a launch event in New Delhi.</p>

<p>It also reinforces Toyota's decision to take the hybrid route in developing markets like India, where it says infrastructure is not ready for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and much of the electricity is generated using coal or other fossil fuels.</p>

<p>While green investors have criticised the carmaker for slowness in moving its product line-up to all-electric vehicles, Toyota remains steadfast that hybrids make more sense in markets where it needs to offer a variety of choices depending on the energy mix and local needs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Toyota recalls its first mass-produced EVs less than 2 months after the launch</strong></p>

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<p>India wants carmakers to build more electric models but the uptake for such vehicles so far has been slow, and only Tata Motors builds them locally. India's biggest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, has said it will not launch an all-electric vehicle before 2025.</p>

<p>In India, Toyota offers a strong hybrid powertrain in its premium models like the Camry sedan and the Vellfire. This is the first time it will offer the technology in a mass segment car where only gasoline and diesel models are currently sold.</p>

<p>The new SUV is expected to be 40% to 50% more fuel efficient than a comparable gasoline-powered car and reduce carbon emissions by 30%, Toyota said. About 90% of the car's parts are sourced from local suppliers - a move that will help it price the car competitively when it goes on sale later this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/general-motors-calls-off-plan-to-sell-india-car-plant-to-chinas-great-wall-493561">General Motors calls off plan to sell India car plant to China's Great Wall</a></strong></p>

<p>Toyota's bigger challenge on pricing, however, will come due to the high taxes that the Indian government levies on hybrid cars of between 28% and 43% versus 5% on all-electric cars.</p>

<p>The SUV, to be manufactured at a Toyota plant in southern Karnataka state, will be sold in India and other global markets including Africa. Suzuki will also take the SUV from Toyota's operation in southern India and sell it under its own label.</p>

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Toyota Motor Corp on Friday unveiled its first mass market hybrid car for India, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), charting a new course for the Japanese automaker in one of the world's fastest growing car markets.

Toyota Motor Corp on Friday unveiled its first mass market hybrid car for India, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), charting a new course for the Japanese automaker in one of the world's fastest growing car markets. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder SUV, the first car to be built by Toyota as part of a global alliance with Suzuki Motor Corp, will compete with Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Motor Corp in a segment that accounts for a large portion of auto sales in India. Also read | Toyota, Subaru shares drop on recalls of their first EV models The new model will be an "ultimate game changer" for the company in India's electrified auto space, Vikram Kirloskar, vice chairman of local unit Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said at a launch event in New Delhi. It also reinforces Toyota's decision to take the hybrid route in developing markets like India, where it says infrastructure is not ready for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and much of the electricity is generated using coal or other fossil fuels. While green investors have criticised the carmaker for slowness in moving its product line-up to all-electric vehicles, Toyota remains steadfast that hybrids make more sense in markets where it needs to offer a variety of choices depending on the energy mix and local needs. Watch | Toyota recalls its first mass-produced EVs less than 2 months after the launch India wants carmakers to build more electric models but the uptake for such vehicles so far has been slow, and only Tata Motors builds them locally. India's biggest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, has said it will not launch an all-electric vehicle before 2025. In India, Toyota offers a strong hybrid powertrain in its premium models like the Camry sedan and the Vellfire. This is the first time it will offer the technology in a mass segment car where only gasoline and diesel models are currently sold. The new SUV is expected to be 40% to 50% more fuel efficient than a comparable gasoline-powered car and reduce carbon emissions by 30%, Toyota said. About 90% of the car's parts are sourced from local suppliers - a move that will help it price the car competitively when it goes on sale later this year. Also read | General Motors calls off plan to sell India car plant to China's Great Wall Toyota's bigger challenge on pricing, however, will come due to the high taxes that the Indian government levies on hybrid cars of between 28% and 43% versus 5% on all-electric cars. The SUV, to be manufactured at a Toyota plant in southern Karnataka state, will be sold in India and other global markets including Africa. Suzuki will also take the SUV from Toyota's operation in southern India and sell it under its own label. 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.

Toyota charts new course in India with its first mass market hybrid car

<p>The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi. Kumar joined the party last year in September. He held his first press conference as a member of the party to discuss the Agnipath military recruitment programmes. He criticised the programme and claimed that poor persons who want to join the Indian armed services would be affected, reported by Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>Kumar earlier took part in the demonstrations Congress held against the programme. He was one of the 20 party leaders that spoke to the media about the programme on June 26 across the country. He even gave a press conference in Patna.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-nupur-sharma-single-hiddenly-responsible-for-unfortunate-incidents-indian-sc-on-prophet-row-493486">BJP's Nupur Sharma ‘single-handedly’ responsible for unfortunate incidents: Indian SC on Prophet row</a></strong></p>

<p>A functionary who wished to remain unnamed, “Emphasis is more on Hindi and bilingual speakers of Hindi and English as our political message cannot spread long enough by only using English.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Udaipur beheading linked to Pakistani extremist group</strong></p>

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<p>According to many people with the knowledge of the situation, Kumar who is renowned for his command over Hindi, is expected to gain more notoriety as a result for the party beginning to emphasise on Hindi communications while battling with the Bhartiya Janta Party in the north Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/journey-towards-ones-decline-raj-thackeray-posts-sarcastic-tweet-after-uddhavs-resignation-493252">'...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation</a></strong></p>

<p>Kumar claimed that the government does not comprehend the suffering or the annoyance of unemployed youngsters. He further added, “Why is Prime Minister Narendra Modi silent on the issue? The government talked about 'one rank, one pension', but has come up with a scheme of 'no rank, no pension'. The scheme is neither in favour of the country nor good for army job aspirants,” PTI reported.</p>

<p>The Congress party is all set for new group of spokespersons with gender and geographical balance probably be youngsters.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi.

The Indian National Congress (INC) is poised to name former Jawaharlal Nehru University student leader Kanhaiya Kumar as a national spokesperson, as part of the reshuffle of its communications staff and concentration on Hindi. Kumar joined the party last year in September. He held his first press conference as a member of the party to discuss the Agnipath military recruitment programmes. He criticised the programme and claimed that poor persons who want to join the Indian armed services would be affected, reported by Hindustan Times. Kumar earlier took part in the demonstrations Congress held against the programme. He was one of the 20 party leaders that spoke to the media about the programme on June 26 across the country. He even gave a press conference in Patna. Also read | BJP's Nupur Sharma ‘single-handedly’ responsible for unfortunate incidents: Indian SC on Prophet row A functionary who wished to remain unnamed, “Emphasis is more on Hindi and bilingual speakers of Hindi and English as our political message cannot spread long enough by only using English.” Watch | Gravitas: Udaipur beheading linked to Pakistani extremist group According to many people with the knowledge of the situation, Kumar who is renowned for his command over Hindi, is expected to gain more notoriety as a result for the party beginning to emphasise on Hindi communications while battling with the Bhartiya Janta Party in the north Delhi. Also read | '...journey towards one's decline': Raj Thackeray posts sarcastic tweet after Uddhav's resignation Kumar claimed that the government does not comprehend the suffering or the annoyance of unemployed youngsters. He further added, “Why is Prime Minister Narendra Modi silent on the issue? The government talked about 'one rank, one pension', but has come up with a scheme of 'no rank, no pension'. The scheme is neither in favour of the country nor good for army job aspirants,” PTI reported. The Congress party is all set for new group of spokespersons with gender and geographical balance probably be youngsters. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress may choose Kanhaiya Kumar as national spokesperson amid focus on Hindi

India: At least 14 dead, several trapped in Manipur landslide, rescue operation underway

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Thursday successfully launched three Singaporean satellites in a commercial mission of the New Space India Limited. PSLV-C53 took off from Sriharikota and injected the three satellites into precise orbits.

India: ISRO successfully launches PSLV-C53 with 3 Singapore satellites

A drone captured the havoc caused by a massive landslide in the Indian state of Manipur. The landslides have claimed at least 14 lives so far while 60 are feared to be trapped.

Watch: Drone footage of the destruction caused by a massive landslide in the Indian state of Manipur

India's richest state Maharashtra has a new Chief Minister. Eknath Shinde has been sworn in as the Western Indian State's new Chief Minister. The swearing-in comes after days of political turmoil in Maharashtra. Just yesterday, Uddhav Thackeray stepped down from the Chief Minister's post, this was after the country's Supreme Court refused to stay the floor test.

End to political drama in Maharashtra: Leader of Shiv Sena rebels Eknath Shinde becomes CM

<p>The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday (June 30) said that the monsoon will likely arrive in all of India by July 6 despite having yet to reach several areas in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The weather agency said that the monsoon moved into practically all of northwest India including the national capital, which claimed that it had now entered a decent phase. Conditions were favourable as monsoon passed through Deesa, Jaipur, Rohtak, Pathankot, Jammu on its way to the southern part of the country, reported by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The long-range forecast from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorological predicts above range rainfall through July 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weather-update-monsoon-2022-arrives-in-india-know-about-monsoon-in-your-city-489952">Weather update: Monsoon 2022 arrives in India, know about monsoon in your city</a></strong></p>

<p>At lower tropospheric levels, an east-west trough stretched from Punjab to the northeastern Bay of Bengal. As a result, lower tropospheric levels of moist winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal were over the country’s norther regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's Northeast hit by Monsoon floods: 1.8 mn stranded in Assam</strong></p>

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<p>IMD’s RWFC tweeted predicting moderate rain in isolated portions of South-West Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">01/07/2022: 12:25 IST; Light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of isolated places of New Delhi, South-West Delhi, South Delhi, South-East Delhi, East Delhi ,NCR ( Gurugram, Manesar) Charkhi Dadri, Mattanhail, Jhajjar, Loharu, Farukhnagar, Kosali,</p>
— RWFC New Delhi (@RWFC_ND) <a href="https://twitter.com/RWFC_ND/status/1542764716816482305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The monsoon which occurs from the month of June to September and brings rain is frequently referred to as the India economy’s vital part. Nearly 40 per cent of the country’s net sown are lacks access to irrigation, while half of the population depends on the income from agriculture. The rain most not only be abundant but should also be equally distributed across the states for a good agricultural result.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-expected-in-telangana-by-june-5-reports-meteorological-centre-483661">Monsoon expected in Telangana by June 5, reports Meteorological Centre</a></strong></p>

<p>Strong monsoons will boost domestic production of a number of goods and commodities which will keep inflation in control. The summer growing crops like rice, sugar, cotton, lentils and edible oils delayed by millions of farmers until the rainy season.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday (June 30) said that the monsoon will likely arrive in all of India by July 6 despite having yet to reach several areas in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday (June 30) said that the monsoon will likely arrive in all of India by July 6 despite having yet to reach several areas in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The weather agency said that the monsoon moved into practically all of northwest India including the national capital, which claimed that it had now entered a decent phase. Conditions were favourable as monsoon passed through Deesa, Jaipur, Rohtak, Pathankot, Jammu on its way to the southern part of the country, reported by Hindustan Times. The long-range forecast from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorological predicts above range rainfall through July 7. Also read | Weather update: Monsoon 2022 arrives in India, know about monsoon in your city At lower tropospheric levels, an east-west trough stretched from Punjab to the northeastern Bay of Bengal. As a result, lower tropospheric levels of moist winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal were over the country’s norther regions. Watch | India's Northeast hit by Monsoon floods: 1.8 mn stranded in Assam IMD’s RWFC tweeted predicting moderate rain in isolated portions of South-West Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan. 01/07/2022: 12:25 IST; Light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of isolated places of New Delhi, South-West Delhi, South Delhi, South-East Delhi, East Delhi ,NCR ( Gurugram, Manesar) Charkhi Dadri, Mattanhail, Jhajjar, Loharu, Farukhnagar, Kosali, — RWFC New Delhi (@RWFC_ND) July 1, 2022 × The monsoon which occurs from the month of June to September and brings rain is frequently referred to as the India economy’s vital part. Nearly 40 per cent of the country’s net sown are lacks access to irrigation, while half of the population depends on the income from agriculture. The rain most not only be abundant but should also be equally distributed across the states for a good agricultural result. Also read | Monsoon expected in Telangana by June 5, reports Meteorological Centre Strong monsoons will boost domestic production of a number of goods and commodities which will keep inflation in control. The summer growing crops like rice, sugar, cotton, lentils and edible oils delayed by millions of farmers until the rainy season. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

IMD predicts monsoon to arrive in all of India by July 6

Asian economies including India and China are reeling under a power crisis. Gas imports meant for Asia are being scooped up by Europe at higher costs. How is Asia coping with this crisis? How will it affect the green pivot? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Asian economies crippled by power crisis

<p>India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said that nations "cannot take unilateral decision in a maritime domain", comments that will resonate in the larger Indo-Pacific region where China is seen attempting to do that, especially in the South China sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the first meeting of the Multiagency Maritime Security Group, NSA explained, "concept of sovereignty (in the maritime domain) is in a calibrated fashion where territorial waters are completely sovereign territory, but as we go to contagious zone, EEZ and further, further demarcation of rights and duties that we have as a nation, what we can do and cannot do".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On disputes, he said, while "disputes and settlement in land border are bilateral in the nation and are decided between two parties across the table," but when "we come to maritime, it's multilateral in construct, laws of seas which are not bilateral, UNCLOS. A nation cannot take a unilateral decision in a maritime domain, the process is complex".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting was chaired by the National Maritime Security Coordinator Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar (Retd), who assumed charge as the country's first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) on 16th February this year. The group has members from key Central Ministries, Agencies and Security Forces dealing with maritime affairs and State Maritime Security Coordinators representing all 13 coastal States and UTs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Highlighting that India has "very deep strategic interest &amp; geo political interest", NSA said, "seas are areas of rivalry, adversities" and in the Indian Ocean region "India has a unique maritime advantage, it is the largest central state in Indian ocean region. Its central geography places a very important role, its 1300 plus islands, economic potential, trade route pass through our area"</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean region has one of the busiest global trade routes, with energy flows going from West Asia to East Asia. 95% of Indian trade by volume is maritime and routed via 12 major and over 200 non-major ports. Over 90% of Indian hydrocarbon requirements are met through seaborne imports and offshore production. Increasingly, worries of illegal fishing, piracy and human trafficking have emerged. Since the 9/11 terror attack in Mumbai over 10 years ago, counter-terror is another focus area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On India's outreach to neighbouring countries, he said, India's "seven important neighbours are critical to our maritime construct, their problem impact us and we also have an important role to play with them". India is part of the Colombo security dialogue and under the Indian Ocean Rim Association has been trying to form a consensus over issues in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his remarks, emphasising the salience of maritime security in an increasingly complex and challenging landscape, the NSA underscored the need for seamless coordination. In a major decision to reform coordination of maritime security affairs at the apex level, in November last year, the Cabinet had approved the creation of the post of NMSC, under the NSA, at the National Security Council Secretariat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He particularly pointed out, "India's time will come. We as a nation need to be strong, coastal security and maritime will play an important role in this".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last few years, the Indian Government has given special attention to the maritime domain with initiatives like SAGAR initiative in 2015, the announcement of India's Indo-Pacific Policy in 2018 as well as growing focus on the blue economy.&nbsp;</p>

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India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said that nations "cannot take unilateral decision in a maritime domain", comments that will resonate in the larger Indo-Pacific region where China is seen attempting to do that, especially in the South China sea.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said that nations "cannot take unilateral decision in a maritime domain", comments that will resonate in the larger Indo-Pacific region where China is seen attempting to do that, especially in the South China sea. Speaking at the first meeting of the Multiagency Maritime Security Group, NSA explained, "concept of sovereignty (in the maritime domain) is in a calibrated fashion where territorial waters are completely sovereign territory, but as we go to contagious zone, EEZ and further, further demarcation of rights and duties that we have as a nation, what we can do and cannot do". On disputes, he said, while "disputes and settlement in land border are bilateral in the nation and are decided between two parties across the table," but when "we come to maritime, it's multilateral in construct, laws of seas which are not bilateral, UNCLOS. A nation cannot take a unilateral decision in a maritime domain, the process is complex". The meeting was chaired by the National Maritime Security Coordinator Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar (Retd), who assumed charge as the country's first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) on 16th February this year. The group has members from key Central Ministries, Agencies and Security Forces dealing with maritime affairs and State Maritime Security Coordinators representing all 13 coastal States and UTs. Highlighting that India has "very deep strategic interest & geo political interest", NSA said, "seas are areas of rivalry, adversities" and in the Indian Ocean region "India has a unique maritime advantage, it is the largest central state in Indian ocean region. Its central geography places a very important role, its 1300 plus islands, economic potential, trade route pass through our area" The Indian Ocean region has one of the busiest global trade routes, with energy flows going from West Asia to East Asia. 95% of Indian trade by volume is maritime and routed via 12 major and over 200 non-major ports. Over 90% of Indian hydrocarbon requirements are met through seaborne imports and offshore production. Increasingly, worries of illegal fishing, piracy and human trafficking have emerged. Since the 9/11 terror attack in Mumbai over 10 years ago, counter-terror is another focus area. On India's outreach to neighbouring countries, he said, India's "seven important neighbours are critical to our maritime construct, their problem impact us and we also have an important role to play with them". India is part of the Colombo security dialogue and under the Indian Ocean Rim Association has been trying to form a consensus over issues in the region. In his remarks, emphasising the salience of maritime security in an increasingly complex and challenging landscape, the NSA underscored the need for seamless coordination. In a major decision to reform coordination of maritime security affairs at the apex level, in November last year, the Cabinet had approved the creation of the post of NMSC, under the NSA, at the National Security Council Secretariat. He particularly pointed out, "India's time will come. We as a nation need to be strong, coastal security and maritime will play an important role in this". In the last few years, the Indian Government has given special attention to the maritime domain with initiatives like SAGAR initiative in 2015, the announcement of India's Indo-Pacific Policy in 2018 as well as growing focus on the blue economy. 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.

Nations cannot take unilateral decisions in maritime domain, says NSA Ajit Doval

In India, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray has stepped down from his post. Uddhav Thackeray's resignation coming after days of political crisis in the state.

India: Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray resigns ahead of floor test

In India, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray has stepped down from his post. Uddhav Thackeray's resignation coming after days of political crisis in the state. Earlier today, the Supreme Court of India had rejected Uddhav government's plea and had refused to stay the floor test in the state assembly

Political crisis in India's Maharashtra escalates | CM Thackeray resigns ahead of floor test

In an effort to deal with items of low utility and high impact on the environment, India has decided to ban all single use plastic items from July 1. Some identified items will be banned by year-end.

India to implement single-use plastic ban from July 1

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