India will be sending Sri Lanka rice as part of the US$ 1 billion credit facility that was extended by New Delhi in March. The facility was signed during the visit of Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa to India last month. The facility is being used to supply essential commodities to the beleaguered country, starting with rice in next few days. &nbsp;

On Saturday, Indian envoy to Colombo Gopal Baglay handed over 40,000 MT of diesel to Sri Lanka's energy minister Gamini Lokuge under Indian assistance through Line of Credit of $500 million. India had offered $500 million line of credit to Sri Lanka for purchase of petroleum products in January. The pact for credit agreement was later signed in February between India's Exim bank and Sri Lankan government. This is the fourth consignment under the fuel Line of Credit, with previous deliveries on March 16, March 20 and March 23. In last 50 days, India has sent 200,000 MT of diesel to the country. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-weekend-curfew-sri-lanka-imposes-nationwide-social-media-blackout-shows-network-data-467827" hreflang="en">Amid weekend curfew, Sri Lanka imposes nationwide social media blackout, shows network data</a>

All in all, India has extended two key credit lines, the $1 billion for essential commodities, and $500 million to buy petroleum products. The Indian mission in Sri Lanka in a statement said, "In view of the urgent nature of Sri Lanka’s requirement, India worked overtime to expeditiously finalise and start implementing both the lines of credit, within weeks." &nbsp;

Since January, India has provided $2.4 billion financial assistance to the island country as it faces economic crisis. This included, a credit swap of US$ 400 million and deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over US$ 515 million. The country is witnessing economic crisis, prompting the government to impose an emergency. Currently, the country is witnessing a 36-hour curfew, that will come to an end on Monday. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;National Curfew declared in Sri Lanka as protests over economic failure continues

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/national-curfew-declared-in-sri-lanka-as-protests-over-economic-failure-continues-467694/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Last week, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar was on a visit to Sri Lanka for the Bimstec summit. The visit saw, EAM meeting the top leadership of the country, including the president, prime minister and holding talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart. During his various meetings, he assured India’s continued support in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery process and also virtually inaugurated the Jaffna cultural centre built with Indian support.

India will be sending Sri Lanka rice as part of the US$ 1 billion credit facility that was extended by New Delhi in March. The facility was signed during the visit of Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa to India last month.

India will be sending Sri Lanka rice as part of the US$ 1 billion credit facility that was extended by New Delhi in March. The facility was signed during the visit of Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa to India last month. The facility is being used to supply essential commodities to the beleaguered country, starting with rice in next few days. On Saturday, Indian envoy to Colombo Gopal Baglay handed over 40,000 MT of diesel to Sri Lanka's energy minister Gamini Lokuge under Indian assistance through Line of Credit of $500 million. India had offered $500 million line of credit to Sri Lanka for purchase of petroleum products in January. The pact for credit agreement was later signed in February between India's Exim bank and Sri Lankan government. This is the fourth consignment under the fuel Line of Credit, with previous deliveries on March 16, March 20 and March 23. In last 50 days, India has sent 200,000 MT of diesel to the country. Also Read: Amid weekend curfew, Sri Lanka imposes nationwide social media blackout, shows network data All in all, India has extended two key credit lines, the $1 billion for essential commodities, and $500 million to buy petroleum products. The Indian mission in Sri Lanka in a statement said, "In view of the urgent nature of Sri Lanka’s requirement, India worked overtime to expeditiously finalise and start implementing both the lines of credit, within weeks." Since January, India has provided $2.4 billion financial assistance to the island country as it faces economic crisis. This included, a credit swap of US$ 400 million and deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over US$ 515 million. The country is witnessing economic crisis, prompting the government to impose an emergency. Currently, the country is witnessing a 36-hour curfew, that will come to an end on Monday. Watch: National Curfew declared in Sri Lanka as protests over economic failure continues × Last week, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar was on a visit to Sri Lanka for the Bimstec summit. The visit saw, EAM meeting the top leadership of the country, including the president, prime minister and holding talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart. During his various meetings, he assured India’s continued support in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery process and also virtually inaugurated the Jaffna cultural centre built with Indian support.

Amid economic crisis, India to send rice to Sri Lanka as part of credit facility  

India's exports touched a record high of $418 billion in 2021-22, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday. 
 
"In March, India's exports touched around $40 billion which is itself a record as we have never bagged such a huge amount from exports in a month ever before," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-vaccine-covaxin-supply-through-un-procurement-agencies-suspended-by-who-467944">Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO &nbsp;</a> 
 
Addressing a media briefing here, Goyal said that during 2021-22, $30 billion export was recorded on a monthly basis, and this was despite the second and third wave of Coronavirus pandemic hitting the country hard. 
 
The engineering goods exports hit a record $111 billion, of which about $16 billion worth goods were shipped to the US&nbsp;alone. 
 
"Our MSME sector, farmers, everybody together took India to new heights successfully," Goyal said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gudi Padwa: India's financial capital Mumbai welcomes New Year 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gudi-padwa-indias-financial-capital-mumbai-welcomes-new-year-467796/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mentioning about 'RRR'&nbsp;film, the Union Minister said it has been learnt that the film has done the highest-ever business of Rs 750 crore in the history of Indian cinema. 
 
Goyal said that similarly, Indian economy is also ready to break all records and the country has the capability to achieve impossible targets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-economic-crisis-india-to-send-rice-to-sri-lanka-as-part-of-credit-facility-467868">Amid economic crisis, India to send rice to Sri Lanka as part of credit facility &nbsp;</a> 
 
"The growth has occurred in sectors that has smaller enterprises and involves the agriculture sector. I congratulate the farmers for raising the agricultural produce. Wheat exports have grown from 2 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to 21.55 lakh tonnes last year and to over 70 lakh tonnes in 2021-22," the Commerce Minister said. 
 
Similar growth has been recorded in jute products, textiles, leather, gems and jewellery and other labour intensive sectors. 
 
"We will continue to work hard to enhance the capacity of MSMEs and farm sector to raise exports and create jobs," he added.

India's exports touched a record high of $418 billion in 2021-22, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday. "In March, India's exports touched around $40 billion which is itself a record as we have never bagged such a huge amount from exports in a month ever before," he added.

India's exports touched a record high of $418 billion in 2021-22, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday. "In March, India's exports touched around $40 billion which is itself a record as we have never bagged such a huge amount from exports in a month ever before," he added. Also read | Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO Addressing a media briefing here, Goyal said that during 2021-22, $30 billion export was recorded on a monthly basis, and this was despite the second and third wave of Coronavirus pandemic hitting the country hard. The engineering goods exports hit a record $111 billion, of which about $16 billion worth goods were shipped to the US alone. "Our MSME sector, farmers, everybody together took India to new heights successfully," Goyal said. Watch | Gudi Padwa: India's financial capital Mumbai welcomes New Year Mentioning about 'RRR' film, the Union Minister said it has been learnt that the film has done the highest-ever business of Rs 750 crore in the history of Indian cinema. Goyal said that similarly, Indian economy is also ready to break all records and the country has the capability to achieve impossible targets. Also read | Amid economic crisis, India to send rice to Sri Lanka as part of credit facility "The growth has occurred in sectors that has smaller enterprises and involves the agriculture sector. I congratulate the farmers for raising the agricultural produce. Wheat exports have grown from 2 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to 21.55 lakh tonnes last year and to over 70 lakh tonnes in 2021-22," the Commerce Minister said. Similar growth has been recorded in jute products, textiles, leather, gems and jewellery and other labour intensive sectors. "We will continue to work hard to enhance the capacity of MSMEs and farm sector to raise exports and create jobs," he added.

India's export touches record $418 billion in 2021-22, says Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

&nbsp;President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday said that connectivity with the Central Asian countries remain a key priority for India, which is a member of both the International North-South Transport Corridor, and the Ashgabat Agreement. 
 
Addressing the young diplomats of Turkmenistan at the Institute of International Relations in Ashgabat, he said: "We have taken steps to operationalise the Chabahar port in Iran which can provide a secure, viable and unhindered access to the sea for the Central Asian countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-vaccine-covaxin-supply-through-un-procurement-agencies-suspended-by-who-467944">Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO&nbsp;</a> 
 
"While expanding connectivity, it is important to ensure that connectivity initiatives are consultative, transparent and participatory, with respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. India stands ready to cooperate, invest and build connectivity in the region." 
 
Kovind stressed that India's foreign policy has been constantly evolving since its Independence. 
 
"India's emergence as one of the major economies of the world and the relevance of India's technological capabilities has shaped key global negotiations. India's partnerships with countries of the Global South have grown substantially while its relations with major powers have deepened further," he said. 
 
He emphasised that one of the key pillars of India's foreign policy in recent years have been the 'Neighbourhood First'&nbsp;policy. 
 
"While 'Indo-Pacific'&nbsp;is a recent addition to the geopolitical lexicon, India's engagement with the Indo-Pacific region goes back several centuries. The dynamism and vitality of the region makes it a global economic centre. We stand for an open, balanced, rules-based and stable international trade regime in the Indo-Pacific," Kovind said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia praises India's neutrality on Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-praises-indias-neutrality-on-ukraine-467544/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the President, one of the focus areas of Indian foreign policy in the last few years have been the revitalisation of its historical ties with the Central Asian countries, which are a part of our "extended neighbourhood". 
 
"As developing countries, India and Central Asian countries share common perspectives and similar approaches. We face common challenges such as terrorism, extremism, radicalisation, drug trafficking etc. India has also strategic relations with most of the Central Asian countries," he said. 
 
On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the President said that India's position on this issue have been steadfast and consistent. 
 
"We have emphasised that the current global order is anchored in international law, the UN Charter, and respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. We are deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situation. We have called for immediate cessation of violence and hostilities and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We have also provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-economic-crisis-india-to-send-rice-to-sri-lanka-as-part-of-credit-facility-467868">Amid economic crisis, India to send rice to Sri Lanka as part of credit facility &nbsp;</a> 
 
About how the UN remains the most universal and representative international organisation, he said: "At the core of India`s call for reformed multilateralism lies the reform of the UN Security Council, to reflect the contemporary realities. In this context, India values the support of Turkmenistan for our permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council." 
 
Kovind said that as Turkmenistan marches ahead in the 'Era of people with Arkadag', India, as a longstanding friend, stands ready to partner with it to realise the collective dreams of the people. He expressed hope that his visit to Turkmenistan would impart a new momentum to further promote partnership between the two countries. 
 
He also inaugurated an `India Corner` at the Institute of International Relations on the occasion. The `India Corner` is envisioned to create interest in India amongst the students of the Institute in organising India related activities.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday said that connectivity with the Central Asian countries remain a key priority for India, which is a member of both the International North-South Transport Corridor, and the Ashgabat Agreement.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday said that connectivity with the Central Asian countries remain a key priority for India, which is a member of both the International North-South Transport Corridor, and the Ashgabat Agreement. Addressing the young diplomats of Turkmenistan at the Institute of International Relations in Ashgabat, he said: "We have taken steps to operationalise the Chabahar port in Iran which can provide a secure, viable and unhindered access to the sea for the Central Asian countries. Also read | Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO "While expanding connectivity, it is important to ensure that connectivity initiatives are consultative, transparent and participatory, with respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. India stands ready to cooperate, invest and build connectivity in the region." Kovind stressed that India's foreign policy has been constantly evolving since its Independence. "India's emergence as one of the major economies of the world and the relevance of India's technological capabilities has shaped key global negotiations. India's partnerships with countries of the Global South have grown substantially while its relations with major powers have deepened further," he said. He emphasised that one of the key pillars of India's foreign policy in recent years have been the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. "While 'Indo-Pacific' is a recent addition to the geopolitical lexicon, India's engagement with the Indo-Pacific region goes back several centuries. The dynamism and vitality of the region makes it a global economic centre. We stand for an open, balanced, rules-based and stable international trade regime in the Indo-Pacific," Kovind said. Watch | Gravitas: Russia praises India's neutrality on Ukraine According to the President, one of the focus areas of Indian foreign policy in the last few years have been the revitalisation of its historical ties with the Central Asian countries, which are a part of our "extended neighbourhood". "As developing countries, India and Central Asian countries share common perspectives and similar approaches. We face common challenges such as terrorism, extremism, radicalisation, drug trafficking etc. India has also strategic relations with most of the Central Asian countries," he said. On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the President said that India's position on this issue have been steadfast and consistent. "We have emphasised that the current global order is anchored in international law, the UN Charter, and respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. We are deeply concerned about the worsening humanitarian situation. We have called for immediate cessation of violence and hostilities and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We have also provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine," he said. Also read | Amid economic crisis, India to send rice to Sri Lanka as part of credit facility About how the UN remains the most universal and representative international organisation, he said: "At the core of India`s call for reformed multilateralism lies the reform of the UN Security Council, to reflect the contemporary realities. In this context, India values the support of Turkmenistan for our permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council." Kovind said that as Turkmenistan marches ahead in the 'Era of people with Arkadag', India, as a longstanding friend, stands ready to partner with it to realise the collective dreams of the people. He expressed hope that his visit to Turkmenistan would impart a new momentum to further promote partnership between the two countries. He also inaugurated an `India Corner` at the Institute of International Relations on the occasion. The `India Corner` is envisioned to create interest in India amongst the students of the Institute in organising India related activities.

Connectivity with Central Asia key priority for India: President Ram Nath Kovind

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba along with his wife Arzu Deuba and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple and offered prayers on Sunday, following their visit to Kaal Bhairav temple and Kashi Vishwanath temple.

Deuba arrived in India on Friday on a three-day visit. It is his first such visit abroad after assuming office in July 2021. Today on the last day of his official visit he came to Varanasi to offer prayers at the Kaal Bhairav temple, Kashi Vishwanath temple and Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple.

After offering puja at the Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple, Adityanath, Nepalese PM and his wife were felicitated with `shawl` by the priest of the temple.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-india-agree-on-expansion-of-power-corporation-467707">Nepal, India agree on expansion of power cooperation</a>

Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Temple in the holy city of Varanasi which stood as a symbol of India-Nepal unity is attracting scores of tourists and pilgrims after the development of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is also known as Nepali Mandir.

Earlier in the day, Deuba along with his wife offered prayers at Kaal Bhairav temple and Kashi Vishwanath temple and offered prayers.

At Kaal Bhairav temple, Nepalese PM was welcomed as per the Indian ritual, with conch, damru and "bel patra" garland while at Kashi Vishwanath temple, Deuba was welcomed by applying `tilak`.

The streets of Varanasi were all decked up with Deuba`s posters and hoardings to greet him. Children could be seen standing with the national flags of both countries (India and Nepal).

Watch |&nbsp;Nepal PM Deuba is on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties after Oli's shake up

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-pm-deuba-is-on-a-3-day-visit-to-india-to-strengthen-ties-after-olis-shake-up-467573/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was already in Varanasi before the Nepal Prime Minister`s arrival.

A day earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Deuba met and held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

The two Prime Ministers jointly launched multiple projects which are likely to boost connectivity between the two countries while they expressed hope that the key initiatives being taken by them would take India-Nepal relations to new heights.

Both PMs first inaugurated a 35-km long cross-border rail link from Jayanagar in Bihar to Kurtha in Nepal and also a passenger train service built under India`s Grant Assistance in a joint address at Hyderabad House. Deuba is on a three-day India visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-nepal-boundary-issue-must-be-addressed-through-dialogue-not-politicisation-foreign-secretary-shringla-467684">Indo-Nepal boundary issue must be addressed through dialogue, not politicisation: Foreign Secretary Shringla</a>

Deuba met Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda at the party headquarters on Friday and discussed strengthening the ties between the Nepali Congress and the BJP.

After meeting BJP President, Nepal PM met the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla in Delhi.The Nepal PM was also accompanied by Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka, Energy and Water Resources Minister Pampha Bhusal and Health Minister Mahendra Rai Yadav during the meeting.&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba along with his wife Arzu Deuba and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple and offered prayers on Sunday, following their visit to Kaal Bhairav temple and Kashi Vishwanath temple.

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba along with his wife Arzu Deuba and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple and offered prayers on Sunday, following their visit to Kaal Bhairav temple and Kashi Vishwanath temple. Deuba arrived in India on Friday on a three-day visit. It is his first such visit abroad after assuming office in July 2021. Today on the last day of his official visit he came to Varanasi to offer prayers at the Kaal Bhairav temple, Kashi Vishwanath temple and Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple. After offering puja at the Samrajeswar Pashupatinath temple, Adityanath, Nepalese PM and his wife were felicitated with `shawl` by the priest of the temple. Also read | Nepal, India agree on expansion of power cooperation Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Temple in the holy city of Varanasi which stood as a symbol of India-Nepal unity is attracting scores of tourists and pilgrims after the development of Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is also known as Nepali Mandir. Earlier in the day, Deuba along with his wife offered prayers at Kaal Bhairav temple and Kashi Vishwanath temple and offered prayers. At Kaal Bhairav temple, Nepalese PM was welcomed as per the Indian ritual, with conch, damru and "bel patra" garland while at Kashi Vishwanath temple, Deuba was welcomed by applying `tilak`. The streets of Varanasi were all decked up with Deuba`s posters and hoardings to greet him. Children could be seen standing with the national flags of both countries (India and Nepal). Watch | Nepal PM Deuba is on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties after Oli's shake up Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was already in Varanasi before the Nepal Prime Minister`s arrival. A day earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Deuba met and held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The two Prime Ministers jointly launched multiple projects which are likely to boost connectivity between the two countries while they expressed hope that the key initiatives being taken by them would take India-Nepal relations to new heights. Both PMs first inaugurated a 35-km long cross-border rail link from Jayanagar in Bihar to Kurtha in Nepal and also a passenger train service built under India`s Grant Assistance in a joint address at Hyderabad House. Deuba is on a three-day India visit. Also read | Indo-Nepal boundary issue must be addressed through dialogue, not politicisation: Foreign Secretary Shringla Deuba met Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda at the party headquarters on Friday and discussed strengthening the ties between the Nepali Congress and the BJP. After meeting BJP President, Nepal PM met the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla in Delhi.The Nepal PM was also accompanied by Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka, Energy and Water Resources Minister Pampha Bhusal and Health Minister Mahendra Rai Yadav during the meeting.

Nepal Prime Minister offers prayer at Pashupatinath temple in Varanasi

Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba is currently in New Delhi on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties. This comes after Former PM Oli's shake-up of ties.

Nepal PM Deuba meets Indian PM Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi

India and Australia have signed a key trade agreement. India is going to benefit from labour-intensive industries. Long-awaited free trade agreement to be signed.

India-Australia sign key trade agreement: Long-awaited free trade agreement to be signed

Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba is currently in New Delhi on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties after Former PM Oli's shake-up of ties.

Push to India-Nepal ties: Nepal PM Deuba in New Delhi to bolster ties with India

Experts say South Asian bodies are suffering because of the British Raj. The repeated famines have reportedly made Indians, Bangladeshis and Pakistanis more susceptible to diabetes. Palki Sharma tells you how our body is still paying the price for the Raj's discriminatory policies.

Gravitas: Colonialism is still taking a toll on your body

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Nepal Prime Minister visits India, oil prices slump & more

Nepal PM Deuba is on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties after Oli's shake up

Amid western sanctions, Russia is pushing for bilateral trade in roubles and rupees. How does the rupee-rouble deal work? Why is India wary despite Russia offering massive discounts? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: How does the Rupee-Rouble system work?

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov 'appreciated' India's neutrality in talks with S Jaishankar. Lavrov also pushed for a rupee-rouble trade system, terming Western payment systems as unreliable. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Russia praises India's neutrality on Ukraine

India PM Modi and Nepal PM Deuba held high-level talks on the expansion of cooperation in railways and energy sector.

India PM Modi and Nepal PM Deuba vow to expand cooperation ties

Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba is currently in New Delhi on a 3-day visit to India to strengthen ties. This comes after Former PM Oli's shake-up of ties. PM Deuba met with PM Modi and both leaders held a joint briefing.

Nepal PM Deuba holds a joint briefing with Indian PM Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi

India has decided to reduce the number of disturbed areas under AFSPA. Why has the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act been so controversial? What does New Delhi's decision mean for the North-East? Listen in to Palki Sharma.

Gravitas: India reduces disturbed areas under AFSPA

Top diplomats from Russia and Britain arrived in New Delhi to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. Both sides are hoping to bring India into their camp. How will India respond? Can neutral New Delhi open a new communication channel? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Ukraine diplomacy shifts to India

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the meeting lasted for 40 minutes. Russian FM said that the west is linking all international issues to Ukraine. WION's Siddhant Sibbal brings you more perspective.

'Russian President Putin sends his regards to PM Narendra Modi,' says Sergei Lavrov

India has emerged as a strong voice of developing nations on climate change issues that can neither be suppressed not ignored, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav asserted in Parliament.

India, a voice for developing nations on climate change

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday.

Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch.

Scotland`s Russell Knox opened with a 65 to lead the US$.8.6 million PGA Tour event.The 34-year-old Lahiri is attempting to win a career-first title in the U.S. after coming agonisingly close at the TOUR`s flagship tournament at TPC Sawgrass, and victory on Sunday would also secure a spot in next week`s Masters Tournament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bruno-fernandes-signs-new-contract-extension-with-manchester-united-till-2026-467469" hreflang="en">Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026</a>

"Today was about trying to find the same kind of rhythm to my routine, rhythm to how I was swinging the club. The body still feels a bit rusty. When I started, it was a bit cold and there was a bit of moisture on the surface and I was trying to get a good feel and speed of the greens," said Anirban Lahiri.

"I definitely wanted to get back into my rhythm after being away and battling an infection I picked up from my daughter. I was laid off in bed for a few days and didn`t play that much golf but I didn`t really hit a lot of bad shots."

Starting from the 10th, Lahiri navigated his opening 10 holes with two bogeys against a lone birdie before his putter started to find its range.

He rolled in a nine-footer on the second, a 23-footer on the fifth and then nailed three successive birdies from nine, 18 and 30 feet respectively to close out his round in style.

"On the back nine, I found the speed of the greens. I`ve played this course quite a bit and I understand the nature of this course. You try to just put yourself in good positions and places where you can make aggressive swings and aggressive putts. If you can do that, you can make a couple of birdies. The putter got a little warmer and it was a nice bonus on the last to get along the one which feels really good," said Lahiri, who finished solo fifth at TPC San Antonio last season.

Despite the high of his stellar finish at THE PLAYERS, Lahiri intends to keep his foot on the pedal in a bid to regain his place amongst golf`s elite. He was ranked as high as 33rd on the Official World Golf Ranking in 2015 and featured in the Presidents Cup twice for the International Team.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-becomes-first-wicketkeeper-to-reach-impressive-t20-milestone-467442" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone</a>

"THE PLAYERS Championship was fantastic and it`s in the past now. It`s time to move on and try to be in the present which was pretty much what I did. I`m just trying to do the same, stay in the present, stay in the now, do what I need to do, what I need to feel, what I need to work on. I`m just trying to get back to that and it`s nice to see my golf responding," said Lahiri.

South Korea`s Si Woo Kim and C.T. Pan of Chinese Taipei got off to good starts at the Valero Texas Open with matching 69s. Despite missing six greens in regulation, Pan, who is a one-time TOUR winner, kept the bogeys off his card while Kim posted five birdies against two bogeys.

Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama, who will defend his Masters` title next week, opened with a 74 in what is his first appearance since withdrawing from THE PLAYERS Championship due to a back injury.<o:p></o:p>

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday. Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch.

India`s Anirban Lahiri overcame a sluggish start to fire a solid 4-under 68 and lie three strokes off the early first-round lead at the Texas Open on Thursday. Lahiri, who finished runner-up at THE PLAYERS Championship three weeks ago, was 1-over through 10 holes at TPC San Antonio before powering home with five birdies, thanks largely to a putter which warmed up down the stretch. Scotland`s Russell Knox opened with a 65 to lead the US$.8.6 million PGA Tour event.The 34-year-old Lahiri is attempting to win a career-first title in the U.S. after coming agonisingly close at the TOUR`s flagship tournament at TPC Sawgrass, and victory on Sunday would also secure a spot in next week`s Masters Tournament. Also read | Bruno Fernandes signs new contract extension with Manchester United till 2026 "Today was about trying to find the same kind of rhythm to my routine, rhythm to how I was swinging the club. The body still feels a bit rusty. When I started, it was a bit cold and there was a bit of moisture on the surface and I was trying to get a good feel and speed of the greens," said Anirban Lahiri. "I definitely wanted to get back into my rhythm after being away and battling an infection I picked up from my daughter. I was laid off in bed for a few days and didn`t play that much golf but I didn`t really hit a lot of bad shots." Starting from the 10th, Lahiri navigated his opening 10 holes with two bogeys against a lone birdie before his putter started to find its range. He rolled in a nine-footer on the second, a 23-footer on the fifth and then nailed three successive birdies from nine, 18 and 30 feet respectively to close out his round in style. "On the back nine, I found the speed of the greens. I`ve played this course quite a bit and I understand the nature of this course. You try to just put yourself in good positions and places where you can make aggressive swings and aggressive putts. If you can do that, you can make a couple of birdies. The putter got a little warmer and it was a nice bonus on the last to get along the one which feels really good," said Lahiri, who finished solo fifth at TPC San Antonio last season. Despite the high of his stellar finish at THE PLAYERS, Lahiri intends to keep his foot on the pedal in a bid to regain his place amongst golf`s elite. He was ranked as high as 33rd on the Official World Golf Ranking in 2015 and featured in the Presidents Cup twice for the International Team. Also read | IPL 2022: Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone "THE PLAYERS Championship was fantastic and it`s in the past now. It`s time to move on and try to be in the present which was pretty much what I did. I`m just trying to do the same, stay in the present, stay in the now, do what I need to do, what I need to feel, what I need to work on. I`m just trying to get back to that and it`s nice to see my golf responding," said Lahiri. South Korea`s Si Woo Kim and C.T. Pan of Chinese Taipei got off to good starts at the Valero Texas Open with matching 69s. Despite missing six greens in regulation, Pan, who is a one-time TOUR winner, kept the bogeys off his card while Kim posted five birdies against two bogeys. Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama, who will defend his Masters` title next week, opened with a 74 in what is his first appearance since withdrawing from THE PLAYERS Championship due to a back injury.

India''s Anirban Lahiri fires solid 68 for strong start at Texas Open

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held bilateral talks with Russian FM Sergei Lavrov. Russian foreign minister said that the west is linking all international issues to Ukraine. WION's Siddhant Sibbal brings you more perspective.

'West linking all issues to Ukraine,' says Russian FM Sergei Lavrov

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar held bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. Russian FM said that the ties between India and Russia were "very sustainable" during many "difficult times" in the past and that he did not have the slightest of doubts about continued cooperation. WION's Siddhant Sibbal brings you more perspective.

Russian foreign minister meets Indian EAM S Jaishankar

Russian FM Sergei Lavrov is in India amid Ukraine-Russia conflict. In a recent update on Lavrov's visit, Russian foreign minister will meet Indian prime minister Narendra Modi. To get you more details, watch this report by WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

Tug-of-war diplomacy: Russian FM Sergei Lavrov to meet Indian PM Narendra Modi

13 million barrels of Russian oil have been imported by India since February. Recently, the US has issued a warning against rising oil imports and is ready to enforce more sanctions against Russia.

US warns against rising oil imports, New Delhi continues to buy Russian oil

Russia has turned to India for support amid global isolation. However, US warned India against expecting help from Russia.

Russian FM Sergei Lavrov to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

india

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news