India has given a green light to vaccine producers to resume the export of covid-19 vaccines. The serum institute of India is set to send one million Covishield doses to Nepal, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. The Pune-based pharma giant has also been allowed to supply bulk vaccines to AstraZeneca in the United Kingdom. This export is due to a contractual obligation with the London-based firm. Meanwhile Bharat Biotech will also provide Iran with one million doses of Covaxin.

India to resume export of COVID-19 vaccines

The UK has eased travel restrictions for fully vaccinated Indians who have received the Covishield jab. People vaccinated with Covishield in India will not be required to undergo the mandatory 10-day quarantine on arrival in the UK.

UK eases travel rules: No quarantine for Indian fully vaccinated with Covishield

Poland's envoy to India Adam Burakowski has warned of a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, and his country willing to "contribute to humanitarian aid." Remember the Polish embassy in Delhi is accredited to Afghanistan and played a key role in coordination of the evacuation in August when Taliban took over the country. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Burakowski highlighted that how Poland, "We evacuated around 1300 people from Afghanistan, Afghan nationals. These are people who worked with our mission in Afghanistan, our embassy when it was there." The envoy welcomed "decision of the govt of India to be more open for foreign nationals". Indian govt has announced that foreign tourist will be allowed from November 15th for those on chartered flights as covid situation eases. Interestingly, the Polish envoy also talked about polish artist Stefan Norblin who has decorated Indian palaces, including the Umaid Bhawan palace in Jodhpur. Stefan norblin left Poland after the country was attacked during world war 2 and in India worked for Maharajah Umaid Singh of Jodhpur. He designed the art deco murals at the famous Umaid Bhawan palace.

Polish envoy to India Adam Burakowski warns of humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

Last week, there had been reports of a minor face-off between Indian and Chinese troops. This was said to have occurred near the Yangtse in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh. There were even reports about some PLA soldiers having been detained by Indian troops. But according to what sources have told WION, the Indian ministry of defence has said conclusively that no one was detained.

Indian ministry of defence says no PLA soldier detained

The tensions at the India-China border are growing. The Chinese military is attempting fresh incursions. It is engaging in ceasefire violations. Military commanders from India and China will meet this month for the 13th time. So far, their dialogue has failed to produce any results. It looks like India now wants to pressurize china militarily for a solution.

Tensions at the India-China border continue to grow

The famous 10-day long Dasara festivitiesCommenced in this palace city on Thursday with religious fervour, amid the shadow of COVID-19 pandemic for the second consecutive year.

Celebrated as 'Nada Habba' (state festival), the festivities began with senior political leader and former Chief Minister S M Krishna and Chief Minister B Basavaraj Bommai along with other dignitaries showering flowers on the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru royals, atop the Chamundi Hill.

Krishna, who had also served as Union External Affairs Minister and Governor of Maharashtra, was chosen by the government for inaugurating the Dasara festivities.

Mysuru in-charge and Cooperation Minister S T Somashekar, Revenue Minister R Ashoka, Kannada and Culture Minister V Sunil Kumar, Religious Endowments, Wakf and Haj Minister Shashikala Jolle and Mysuru MP Pratap Simha were among others present at the inaugural.

With COVID-19 pandemic casting a shadow, the government had decided to organise the 412th Dasara festivities in a "simple" way, by and large restricting it to keep up with the traditions.

The 10-day event that every year showcases Karnataka's cultural heritage resplendent with folk art forms and attracts large crowds and tourists, has been scaled down for the second consecutive year due to COVID-19.

The Mysuru administration has restricted people at most of the events and has arranged for live telecasts.

The state government has issued guidelines for celebrating the Dasara festival at Mysuru limiting the number of participants to 500 at prominent Dasara events, such as the cultural programmes in front of Amba Vilas Palace, the famous Dasara procession (Jumbo Sawari) and Torch Light Parade.

'Jumbo Sawari' procession of caparisoned elephants carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed in a golden Howdah on Vijayadashmi or the 10th day of the festival, which marks the culmination of celebrations on October 15, has been restricted to the Amba Vilas Palace premises.

Also, the cultural events, which otherwise used to be held at more than a dozen venues, have been restricted to the palace premises.

The palace, major streets, turnarounds or circles and buildings of Mysuru will be illuminated with lights in the evening during the 10-day long festivities. At the palace too, the royal family will celebrate the festivities as per traditions.

The Navaratri celebrations at the palace include several rituals, most remarkably Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, the scion of Mysuru royal family, dressed in grand attire, conducting Khasagi durbar (private durbar) by ascending the golden throne, amid chanting of vedic hymns.

Dasara was celebrated by the rulers of the Vijayanagar empire and the tradition was inherited by the Wadiyars.

Festivities were first started in Mysuru by the Wadiyar King, Raja Wadiyar I in the year 1610.

It became a private affair of the royal family following the abolition of the privy purse in 1971 and the discontinuation of the privileges of the erstwhile rulers.

However, a low-key Dasara used to be held on the initiative of the local people until the state government stepped in and the then Chief Minister D Devaraja Urs revived the Dasara celebrations in 1975, which is being followed till date.

Terming it as his "good fortune" to be at the service of "Naada Devate" (state deity) Chamundeshwari, Chief Minister Bommai said the world renowned festivities has slightly lost its shine for two years because of COVID and expressed hope about celebrating with grandeur and religious fervour from next year with the blessings of the goddess.

"I have prayed to the goddess to remove the people of the state from all difficulties and COVID pandemic," he said.

S M Krishna, in his speech, termed youth as an asset to the nation, and stressed on the need to give them the right direction by setting the right kind of ambitions.

Recalling his long association with Mysuru, he remembered the contribution of royals for Mysuru, including pledging their jewels to construct Krishnaraja Sagar Dam across the river Cauvery, which helped the progress of the farmers of the region.

He advised the state government to think about the Mysuru Dasara package for tourism by next year, aimed at covering all the major destinations in the state, as he pointed out that Singapore is an example on how a place can progress with cleanliness and proper planning.&nbsp;

The famous 10-day long Dasara festivitiesCommenced in this palace city on Thursday with religious fervour, amid the shadow of COVID-19 pandemic for the second consecutive year.

The famous 10-day long Dasara festivitiesCommenced in this palace city on Thursday with religious fervour, amid the shadow of COVID-19 pandemic for the second consecutive year. Celebrated as 'Nada Habba' (state festival), the festivities began with senior political leader and former Chief Minister S M Krishna and Chief Minister B Basavaraj Bommai along with other dignitaries showering flowers on the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru royals, atop the Chamundi Hill. Krishna, who had also served as Union External Affairs Minister and Governor of Maharashtra, was chosen by the government for inaugurating the Dasara festivities. Mysuru in-charge and Cooperation Minister S T Somashekar, Revenue Minister R Ashoka, Kannada and Culture Minister V Sunil Kumar, Religious Endowments, Wakf and Haj Minister Shashikala Jolle and Mysuru MP Pratap Simha were among others present at the inaugural. With COVID-19 pandemic casting a shadow, the government had decided to organise the 412th Dasara festivities in a "simple" way, by and large restricting it to keep up with the traditions. The 10-day event that every year showcases Karnataka's cultural heritage resplendent with folk art forms and attracts large crowds and tourists, has been scaled down for the second consecutive year due to COVID-19. The Mysuru administration has restricted people at most of the events and has arranged for live telecasts. The state government has issued guidelines for celebrating the Dasara festival at Mysuru limiting the number of participants to 500 at prominent Dasara events, such as the cultural programmes in front of Amba Vilas Palace, the famous Dasara procession (Jumbo Sawari) and Torch Light Parade. 'Jumbo Sawari' procession of caparisoned elephants carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed in a golden Howdah on Vijayadashmi or the 10th day of the festival, which marks the culmination of celebrations on October 15, has been restricted to the Amba Vilas Palace premises. Also, the cultural events, which otherwise used to be held at more than a dozen venues, have been restricted to the palace premises. The palace, major streets, turnarounds or circles and buildings of Mysuru will be illuminated with lights in the evening during the 10-day long festivities. At the palace too, the royal family will celebrate the festivities as per traditions. The Navaratri celebrations at the palace include several rituals, most remarkably Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, the scion of Mysuru royal family, dressed in grand attire, conducting Khasagi durbar (private durbar) by ascending the golden throne, amid chanting of vedic hymns. Dasara was celebrated by the rulers of the Vijayanagar empire and the tradition was inherited by the Wadiyars. Festivities were first started in Mysuru by the Wadiyar King, Raja Wadiyar I in the year 1610. It became a private affair of the royal family following the abolition of the privy purse in 1971 and the discontinuation of the privileges of the erstwhile rulers. However, a low-key Dasara used to be held on the initiative of the local people until the state government stepped in and the then Chief Minister D Devaraja Urs revived the Dasara celebrations in 1975, which is being followed till date. Terming it as his "good fortune" to be at the service of "Naada Devate" (state deity) Chamundeshwari, Chief Minister Bommai said the world renowned festivities has slightly lost its shine for two years because of COVID and expressed hope about celebrating with grandeur and religious fervour from next year with the blessings of the goddess. "I have prayed to the goddess to remove the people of the state from all difficulties and COVID pandemic," he said. S M Krishna, in his speech, termed youth as an asset to the nation, and stressed on the need to give them the right direction by setting the right kind of ambitions. Recalling his long association with Mysuru, he remembered the contribution of royals for Mysuru, including pledging their jewels to construct Krishnaraja Sagar Dam across the river Cauvery, which helped the progress of the farmers of the region. He advised the state government to think about the Mysuru Dasara package for tourism by next year, aimed at covering all the major destinations in the state, as he pointed out that Singapore is an example on how a place can progress with cleanliness and proper planning.

Dasara festivities begin in Mysuru amid COVID-19 restrictions

United States deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman, who is in India on a two-day visit, held talks with foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday. Both leaders discussed the indo-pacific and COVID-19 pandemic during the meet.

US deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman on two-day visit to India, Afghan on agenda

Seven civilians have been killed in&nbsp;Kashmir valley in the last ten days. The Sikh leaders have decided that people of their community should not go to their workplaces till the situation normalises.&nbsp;

Two teachers were shot dead in a government school in Srinagar’s Eidgah area on Thursday.&nbsp;

Supinder Kaur, a resident of Alochi Bagh, Srinagar, and Deepak Chand, resident of Janipura, Jammu were shot from point-blank range. Both of them were severely injured and immediately taken to a nearby hospital. However, they succumbed to their injuries. &nbsp;

DGP Dilbagh Singh, DG JK police said, “The innocent people who work for the society are being killed and targeted. We are sad about the incidents. We are investigating and have managed to get a lot of clues."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-valley-on-high-alert-after-3-civilians-shot-dead-in-separate-incidents-418491">Also read | Kashmir Valley on high alert after 3 civilians shot dead in separate incidents</a>

"We will soon be able to arrest the guilty," he added.

Earlier, on Tuesday, three civilians were killed in Kashmir Valley. The famous chemist M L Bindroo, the non-local vendor Virender Paswan and taxi driver Mohd Shafi were all shot in different incidents.

These attacks have led to fear among the minority community, including pandits and sikhs.

Sikh Leader Jagmohan Singh Rana said that the community leaders have directed all the government employees of their community to not go to work until the security situation changes.&nbsp;

''A local girl has been killed today in Kashmir. We have been living here for the last 30 years and have been a part and parcel of good and bad. But if this happens with us, we won't tolerate it," the leader said.

He added, "I fear that agencies will misuse this opportunity. However, the main responsibility lies with the majority community. Those responsible should be punished. We have appealed to all the young employees to stop going for&nbsp;work. This will be our way of protesting towards the government so that they punish the culprits.'' said Jagmohan Singh Rana, Sikh Leader.

The investigation is in progress and thr police will continue to work in order to come to a conclusion.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-two-teachers-shot-dead-by-terrorists-two-days-after-three-others-were-gunned-down-418873">Also read |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Two teachers shot dead by terrorists, two days after three others were gunned down</a>

Political leaders have also condemned the incident.&nbsp;

''Jammu and Kashmir has been on the road to progress but some elements from Pakistan do not want peace and they have started targeting the minority communities, BJP leaders, and the policemen," said BJP leader Sofi Yousof.

He added, "They want to repeat the 90's here. There has been no stone-pelting, no civilian killing after the abrogation of article 370. Whoever has done this will be neutralised soon. It is also a security lapse and I have spoken to DG regarding the same.'' 
Police have launched various search operations across the valley to arrest the militants.&nbsp;

Seven civilians have been killed in Kashmir valley in the last ten days. The Sikh leaders have decided that people of their community should not go to their workplaces till the situation normalises.

Seven civilians have been killed in Kashmir valley in the last ten days. The Sikh leaders have decided that people of their community should not go to their workplaces till the situation normalises. Two teachers were shot dead in a government school in Srinagar’s Eidgah area on Thursday. Supinder Kaur, a resident of Alochi Bagh, Srinagar, and Deepak Chand, resident of Janipura, Jammu were shot from point-blank range. Both of them were severely injured and immediately taken to a nearby hospital. However, they succumbed to their injuries. DGP Dilbagh Singh, DG JK police said, “The innocent people who work for the society are being killed and targeted. We are sad about the incidents. We are investigating and have managed to get a lot of clues." Also read | Kashmir Valley on high alert after 3 civilians shot dead in separate incidents "We will soon be able to arrest the guilty," he added. Earlier, on Tuesday, three civilians were killed in Kashmir Valley. The famous chemist M L Bindroo, the non-local vendor Virender Paswan and taxi driver Mohd Shafi were all shot in different incidents. These attacks have led to fear among the minority community, including pandits and sikhs. Sikh Leader Jagmohan Singh Rana said that the community leaders have directed all the government employees of their community to not go to work until the security situation changes. ''A local girl has been killed today in Kashmir. We have been living here for the last 30 years and have been a part and parcel of good and bad. But if this happens with us, we won't tolerate it," the leader said. He added, "I fear that agencies will misuse this opportunity. However, the main responsibility lies with the majority community. Those responsible should be punished. We have appealed to all the young employees to stop going for work. This will be our way of protesting towards the government so that they punish the culprits.'' said Jagmohan Singh Rana, Sikh Leader. The investigation is in progress and thr police will continue to work in order to come to a conclusion. Also read | J&K: Two teachers shot dead by terrorists, two days after three others were gunned down Political leaders have also condemned the incident. ''Jammu and Kashmir has been on the road to progress but some elements from Pakistan do not want peace and they have started targeting the minority communities, BJP leaders, and the policemen," said BJP leader Sofi Yousof. He added, "They want to repeat the 90's here. There has been no stone-pelting, no civilian killing after the abrogation of article 370. Whoever has done this will be neutralised soon. It is also a security lapse and I have spoken to DG regarding the same.'' Police have launched various search operations across the valley to arrest the militants.

J&K: 7 civilians killed in 10 days, sikh leaders urge people to not go to work until situation normalises

India has withdrawn its men's and women's hockey teams from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games of 2022. Hockey India has cited Britain's discriminatory quarantine rules among the reasons for their withdrawal. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India-UK vaccine spat spills into hockey

This month, military commanders from India and China will meet for the 13th round of talks. Ahead of the dialogue, China has violated the ceasefire twice and attempted incursions. Palki Sharma tells you how India is responding.

Gravitas: India redirects soldiers and military assets from Pakistan to China border

UNICEF’s new ‘State of the World’s Children (SOWC)’ report has revealed that an estimated 14 per cent of India’s young people, aged 15-24 years, reported feeling depressed and uninterested. This comes against an international median of 19 per cent.

The first-ever SOWC report to focus on mental health says, "Fear. Loneliness. Grief. As the coronavirus pandemic descended on the world in 2019, these powerful emotions enveloped the lives of many millions of children, young people and families."

“In the early days especially, many experts feared they would persist, damaging the mental health of a generation. In truth, it will be years before we can really assess the impact of Covid-19 on our mental health.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/immunity-from-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-decreasing-study-418863">Also read |&nbsp;Immunity from Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine decreasing: Study</a>

The survey was carried out in 21 countries in the first half of 2021. It found that Indian youth are less willing to share their feelings of lowness.

“A median of 83 per cent of young people (15 to 24 years old) agreed it was better to deal with mental health problems by sharing experiences with others and seeking support; by contrast, only 15 per cent felt such problems were personal and should be dealt with on one’s own,” says the report.

“Among the 21 countries, India was the only exception, with 41 per cent of young people supporting the sharing option.”&nbsp;

The new revelation comes as a worry because it means that such youngsters are less likely to seek and get professional help and will, therefore, continue to suffer from undiagnosed mental health conditions.&nbsp;

The report analysed more than 13 per cent of the world’s adolescents, aged 10-19, live with a diagnosed mental disorder.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-study-finds-a-big-drop-in-covid-19-antibodies-within-four-months-of-vaccination-412998">Also read |&nbsp;Indian study finds a big drop in COVID-19 antibodies within four months of vaccination</a>

This represents 8.6 crore adolescents aged 15-19 and 8 crore adolescents aged 10-14.

The report argues that the unwillingness to talk about how these children feel rises from the social stigmatisation of mental health conditions. It also talks of instances of such stigma across the world.

It says, "Children do not learn to stigmatise mental health conditions on their own; many mirror behaviours they see in the world around them. For example, a cross-sectional study of 566 secondary school teachers in South India found that nearly 70 per cent believed that depression was weakness, not sickness, and that it was unpredictable but not dangerous."

UNICEF’s new ‘State of the World’s Children (SOWC)’ report has revealed that an estimated 14 per cent of India’s young people, aged 15-24 years, reported feeling depressed and uninterested.

UNICEF’s new ‘State of the World’s Children (SOWC)’ report has revealed that an estimated 14 per cent of India’s young people, aged 15-24 years, reported feeling depressed and uninterested. This comes against an international median of 19 per cent. The first-ever SOWC report to focus on mental health says, "Fear. Loneliness. Grief. As the coronavirus pandemic descended on the world in 2019, these powerful emotions enveloped the lives of many millions of children, young people and families." “In the early days especially, many experts feared they would persist, damaging the mental health of a generation. In truth, it will be years before we can really assess the impact of Covid-19 on our mental health.” Also read | Immunity from Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine decreasing: Study The survey was carried out in 21 countries in the first half of 2021. It found that Indian youth are less willing to share their feelings of lowness. “A median of 83 per cent of young people (15 to 24 years old) agreed it was better to deal with mental health problems by sharing experiences with others and seeking support; by contrast, only 15 per cent felt such problems were personal and should be dealt with on one’s own,” says the report. “Among the 21 countries, India was the only exception, with 41 per cent of young people supporting the sharing option.” The new revelation comes as a worry because it means that such youngsters are less likely to seek and get professional help and will, therefore, continue to suffer from undiagnosed mental health conditions. The report analysed more than 13 per cent of the world’s adolescents, aged 10-19, live with a diagnosed mental disorder. Also read | Indian study finds a big drop in COVID-19 antibodies within four months of vaccination This represents 8.6 crore adolescents aged 15-19 and 8 crore adolescents aged 10-14. The report argues that the unwillingness to talk about how these children feel rises from the social stigmatisation of mental health conditions. It also talks of instances of such stigma across the world. It says, "Children do not learn to stigmatise mental health conditions on their own; many mirror behaviours they see in the world around them. For example, a cross-sectional study of 566 secondary school teachers in South India found that nearly 70 per cent believed that depression was weakness, not sickness, and that it was unpredictable but not dangerous."

14 per cent youngsters depressed in India due to COVID-19: UNICEF

India has cornered Pakistan at the UNGA once again. Exercising the right to reply, India told the assembly that while Pakistani diplomats talk peace, PM Imran Khan glorifies Osama Bin-Laden. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Indian corners Pak at UNGA, again!

Security has been put on high alert after three civilians were shot dead by terrorists in three separate terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday.

India: Kashmir on high alert a day after three different terror attacks

Indian Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla met with in Sri Lanka PM on a crucial four-day visit. The key focus of the meeting was to boost the bilateral ties between the nations.

Indian Foreign secy Harsh Shringla meets Sri Lankan PM, talks on strengthening Bilateral ties

India has strongly slammed Pakistan at the United Nations, saying that the country is the "biggest destabilizing force in the world" which has "repeatedly indulged in cross-border terrorism." Watch this report for more details.

Indian diplomat urges UN to not allow Pakistan to abuse platform

National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NTAGI) Chairperson Dr NK Arora has said that once the COVID-19 vaccination drive for children begins in India, priority would be given to children with comorbidities however severe.

In an interview with ANI, Dr Arora said, "We are going to prioritise COVID-19 vaccination for children with severe comorbidities and comorbidities so that we immediately immunise them and rest of the children who are healthy can be immunised subsequently."

Talking about how to prioritise the vaccination for children, Dr Arora said, "We are working on that and we are trying to identify those who are at highest risk of getting the severe disease and the need for hospitalisation. Within the next couple of weeks, the list will be available in the public domain. In addition, we are also making arrangements at different parts of the country so that these children do not have to travel and within their district, the vaccine is made available."

Earlier in August, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had approved Zydus Cadila's DNA vaccine for emergency use in adults and children aged 12 years and above.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979">Also read | UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

Now, the vaccines are waiting to be introduced in the national vaccination programme.

A WHO-AIIMS joint survey in June found out that seroprevalence was 55.7 per cent in the age group below 18 years and 63.5 per cent in 18 years and above. They also highlighted that there was no statistically significant difference in prevalence between adults and children.

Dr Arora also spoke about the reopening of schools as he said, "Children are vectors. They spread the infection but they themselves do not get infected. So it is important that adults who are surrounding them - be it family members, teachers, non-teaching staff - they need to be immunised and surrounded by a ring of protection."

In addition, he stated, "Our national target is to immunise all adults. We have reached half the landmark. Once adults are immunised we have about 44 crore children below 18 years of age and we are prepared for giving immunisation to children at the same speed."

National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NTAGI) Chairperson Dr NK Arora has said that once the COVID-19 vaccination drive for children begins in India, priority would be given to children with comorbidities however severe.

National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NTAGI) Chairperson Dr NK Arora has said that once the COVID-19 vaccination drive for children begins in India, priority would be given to children with comorbidities however severe. In an interview with ANI, Dr Arora said, "We are going to prioritise COVID-19 vaccination for children with severe comorbidities and comorbidities so that we immediately immunise them and rest of the children who are healthy can be immunised subsequently." Talking about how to prioritise the vaccination for children, Dr Arora said, "We are working on that and we are trying to identify those who are at highest risk of getting the severe disease and the need for hospitalisation. Within the next couple of weeks, the list will be available in the public domain. In addition, we are also making arrangements at different parts of the country so that these children do not have to travel and within their district, the vaccine is made available." Earlier in August, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had approved Zydus Cadila's DNA vaccine for emergency use in adults and children aged 12 years and above. Also read | UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss Now, the vaccines are waiting to be introduced in the national vaccination programme. A WHO-AIIMS joint survey in June found out that seroprevalence was 55.7 per cent in the age group below 18 years and 63.5 per cent in 18 years and above. They also highlighted that there was no statistically significant difference in prevalence between adults and children. Dr Arora also spoke about the reopening of schools as he said, "Children are vectors. They spread the infection but they themselves do not get infected. So it is important that adults who are surrounding them - be it family members, teachers, non-teaching staff - they need to be immunised and surrounded by a ring of protection." In addition, he stated, "Our national target is to immunise all adults. We have reached half the landmark. Once adults are immunised we have about 44 crore children below 18 years of age and we are prepared for giving immunisation to children at the same speed."

Children with comorbidities to be prioritised for vaccination in India

At an event held to mark the 31st anniversary of reunification, the Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner said on Sunday that both Berlin and&nbsp;New Delhi are very much on the same page on issues concerning Afghanistan. The diplomat also said the two countries will see closer cooperation in this regard. &nbsp;

Lindner said, "India is a very big actor there (Afghanistan)... Involved in a lot of developmental projects and Germany has been very active (there) for the last 20 years. So, we both share pretty much the same principles." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-wants-trade-security-pact-with-india-says-foreign-secretary-liz-truss-417979" hreflang="en">UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss</a>

The envoy unveiled a symbolic painting on a large wall at the iconic Sheila Theatre in Paharganj, which depicted the friendship between India and Germany. &nbsp;

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31 years ago, GER became reunited, courageous people teared down Berlin Wall. Today, as COVID makes large celebrations still impossible, we unveiled symbolic street-art painting of IND-GER friendship on this wall in middle of Delhi. Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/delhistreetart?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@delhistreetart</a>! Happy 3rd of Oct! <a href="https://t.co/hRBZ5KM68E">pic.twitter.com/hRBZ5KM68E</a>
— Walter J. Lindner (@AmbLindnerIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbLindnerIndia/status/1444581266322427904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Economy, student exchange, green energy, environmental protection, science and technology, and artificial intelligence will be some of the key areas of the India-Germany partnership ahead, the diplomat said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-releases-new-propaganda-video-on-galwan-valley-clash-last-year-417891" hreflang="en">China releases new propaganda video on Galwan Valley clash last year</a>

Answering a query related to the India-UK row over COVID-19 vaccine certification, Lindner said, "I don't know exactly what the specifications are... Why the UK is not recognising the app from India. Weeks ago, we recognised Covishield. I myself have been vaccinated with Covishield. So, those who have been administered Covishield do not need to undergo quarantine (in Germany) or face any other restrictions." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At an event held to mark the 31st anniversary of reunification, the Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner said on Sunday that both Berlin and New Delhi are very much on the same page on issues concerning Afghanistan.

At an event held to mark the 31st anniversary of reunification, the Germany’s Ambassador to India Walter J Lindner said on Sunday that both Berlin and New Delhi are very much on the same page on issues concerning Afghanistan. The diplomat also said the two countries will see closer cooperation in this regard. Lindner said, "India is a very big actor there (Afghanistan)... Involved in a lot of developmental projects and Germany has been very active (there) for the last 20 years. So, we both share pretty much the same principles." Also Read: UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss The envoy unveiled a symbolic painting on a large wall at the iconic Sheila Theatre in Paharganj, which depicted the friendship between India and Germany. 31 years ago, GER became reunited, courageous people teared down Berlin Wall. Today, as COVID makes large celebrations still impossible, we unveiled symbolic street-art painting of IND-GER friendship on this wall in middle of Delhi. Thanks to @delhistreetart! Happy 3rd of Oct! pic.twitter.com/hRBZ5KM68E — Walter J. Lindner (@AmbLindnerIndia) October 3, 2021 × Economy, student exchange, green energy, environmental protection, science and technology, and artificial intelligence will be some of the key areas of the India-Germany partnership ahead, the diplomat said. Also Read: China releases new propaganda video on Galwan Valley clash last year Answering a query related to the India-UK row over COVID-19 vaccine certification, Lindner said, "I don't know exactly what the specifications are... Why the UK is not recognising the app from India. Weeks ago, we recognised Covishield. I myself have been vaccinated with Covishield. So, those who have been administered Covishield do not need to undergo quarantine (in Germany) or face any other restrictions." (With inputs from agencies)

India, Germany on same page over Afghanistan, says envoy Walter J Lindner

To challenge the influence of authoritarian states, the UK wants to get into agreements, covering trade and security with India and other democratic nations in Indo-Pacific region, said Britain's new Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on Sunday. &nbsp;

Until her recent promotion within UK Cabinet, Truss as international trade secretary was in-charge of talks with India on a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA). &nbsp; &nbsp;

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The foreign secretary said that she is keen to strike more deals&nbsp;in line with AUKUS, the trilateral security alliance between Australia, the UK and the US, which is widely seen as a counter-balance to China. &nbsp;

In her first major interview since taking over new role, Truss told The Sunday Times, "We want to work with our friends and allies to create more economic agreements and security agreements. AUKUS is about protecting trade routes and shipping routes specifically with Australia but I want to look at arrangements with India, with Japan and with Canada to expand that security support in the same types of areas." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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"Some countries we will be able to enter deeper security arrangements with than others. One thing I know from being Trade Secretary for two years is that the UK is hugely trusted. People know we are reliable and when we say we will do something we do it, we follow the rules," the leader added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To challenge the influence of authoritarian states, the UK wants to get into agreements, covering trade and security with India and other democratic nations in Indo-Pacific region, said Britain's new Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on Sunday.

To challenge the influence of authoritarian states, the UK wants to get into agreements, covering trade and security with India and other democratic nations in Indo-Pacific region, said Britain's new Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on Sunday. Until her recent promotion within UK Cabinet, Truss as international trade secretary was in-charge of talks with India on a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Also Read: Immigration to not solve food, fuel crises, says UK PM Boris Johnson The foreign secretary said that she is keen to strike more deals in line with AUKUS, the trilateral security alliance between Australia, the UK and the US, which is widely seen as a counter-balance to China. In her first major interview since taking over new role, Truss told The Sunday Times, "We want to work with our friends and allies to create more economic agreements and security agreements. AUKUS is about protecting trade routes and shipping routes specifically with Australia but I want to look at arrangements with India, with Japan and with Canada to expand that security support in the same types of areas." Also Read: Queen Elizabeth urges Scottish parliament to tackle climate change "Some countries we will be able to enter deeper security arrangements with than others. One thing I know from being Trade Secretary for two years is that the UK is hugely trusted. People know we are reliable and when we say we will do something we do it, we follow the rules," the leader added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK wants trade, security pact with India, says Foreign Secretary Liz Truss

India and UK are holding talks for an early resolution on the COVID travel guidelines row. Watch this report for more details.

United Kingdom in talks with India over certificate row

In response to a query, the 76th session of the UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid said, he received the two doses of Covishield vaccine manufactured in India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also said that a “large portion” of other countries around the world have also been inoculated by Covishield. &nbsp;

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The leader was responding a question that whether any Covid vaccine should be recognised and considered or only the ones validated by the World Health Organisation or any other group. &nbsp; &nbsp;

At his first press conference on Friday, Shahid said, "On vaccines, that's a very technical question you have asked me. I got Covishield from India, I’ve got the two doses. I don't know how many countries would say that Covishield is acceptable or not, but a large portion of the countries have got Covishield.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Developed by British-Swedish pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, the Covishield vaccine has been manufactured in India by Pune-based Serum Institute of India. &nbsp;

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“And I’ve survived. But let someone else, a medical person make that call, not me,” Shahid added. &nbsp;

Through grants, commercial shipments and the COVAX facility, India has exported over 66 million vaccine doses to nearly 100 countries. The home country of Shahid, Maldives was among the first nations to receive the India-made vaccines in January. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In response to a query, the 76th session of the UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid said, he received the two doses of Covishield vaccine manufactured in India.

In response to a query, the 76th session of the UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid said, he received the two doses of Covishield vaccine manufactured in India. He also said that a “large portion” of other countries around the world have also been inoculated by Covishield. Also Read: India, UK in talks for early resolution on Covid travel rules row The leader was responding a question that whether any Covid vaccine should be recognised and considered or only the ones validated by the World Health Organisation or any other group. At his first press conference on Friday, Shahid said, "On vaccines, that's a very technical question you have asked me. I got Covishield from India, I’ve got the two doses. I don't know how many countries would say that Covishield is acceptable or not, but a large portion of the countries have got Covishield.” Developed by British-Swedish pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, the Covishield vaccine has been manufactured in India by Pune-based Serum Institute of India. Also Read: India logs 24,354 Covid cases and 234 deaths in 24 hours “And I’ve survived. But let someone else, a medical person make that call, not me,” Shahid added. Through grants, commercial shipments and the COVAX facility, India has exported over 66 million vaccine doses to nearly 100 countries. The home country of Shahid, Maldives was among the first nations to receive the India-made vaccines in January. (With inputs from agencies)

'I got two doses of Covishield from India', says 76th UNGA President Abdulla Shahid

Beijing’s top envoy in New Delhi, Sun Weidong, emphasised that India should maintain “strategic autonomy” instead of joining any exclusive alliances against its neighbour. This comes in a few days after leaders of the Quad gathered in Washington for their first in-person summit.

Weidong further said that any attempts to “gang up for containing and suppressing China” would “be doomed to fail”. He did not mention the Quad alliance or any of its members.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the joint statement of Quad countries stressed on the need for an open Indo-Pacific region 'undaunted by coercion'.&nbsp;

Though China has not been named in this regard, experts have been quoted in media reports to underline hints towards China.

The joint statement was released after leaders of Quad countries (India, Australia, USA, Japan) held their first-ever in-person summit in Washington.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-joint-statement-underlines-need-for-open-indo-pacific-undaunted-by-coercion-415748">Also read |&nbsp;Quad joint statement underlines need for open Indo-Pacific 'undaunted by coercion'</a>

Quad joint statement batted for freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific.

"We stand for the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and territorial integrity of states," US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a joint statement after the talks.

Their statement made frequent mention of the leaders' insistence on rules-based behaviour in a region where China has been trying to flex its muscles.

"Together, we recommit to promoting the free, open, rules-based order, rooted in international law and undaunted by coercion, to bolster security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond," they said.

Beijing’s top envoy in New Delhi, Sun Weidong, emphasised that India should maintain “strategic autonomy” instead of joining any exclusive alliances against its neighbour.

Beijing’s top envoy in New Delhi, Sun Weidong, emphasised that India should maintain “strategic autonomy” instead of joining any exclusive alliances against its neighbour. This comes in a few days after leaders of the Quad gathered in Washington for their first in-person summit. Weidong further said that any attempts to “gang up for containing and suppressing China” would “be doomed to fail”. He did not mention the Quad alliance or any of its members. Meanwhile, the joint statement of Quad countries stressed on the need for an open Indo-Pacific region 'undaunted by coercion'. Though China has not been named in this regard, experts have been quoted in media reports to underline hints towards China. The joint statement was released after leaders of Quad countries (India, Australia, USA, Japan) held their first-ever in-person summit in Washington. Also read | Quad joint statement underlines need for open Indo-Pacific 'undaunted by coercion' Quad joint statement batted for freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific. "We stand for the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and territorial integrity of states," US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a joint statement after the talks. Their statement made frequent mention of the leaders' insistence on rules-based behaviour in a region where China has been trying to flex its muscles. "Together, we recommit to promoting the free, open, rules-based order, rooted in international law and undaunted by coercion, to bolster security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond," they said.

India should maintain 'strategic autonomy', says Beijing’s top envoy in New Delhi

A meeting between the US' and India's leaders was held recently. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan did little to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan. Anita Powell reports from the White House on how Biden is working on the relations between the two South Asian nations.

WION VOA: A new era for India-US relations

US and India push for combined training exercises. The Indian chief of defense staff General Bipin Rawat met with his US counterpart, General Mark Milley.

US and India push for combined training exercises

The QUAD security alliance has spooked China yet again, days after the first in-person summit. Beijing has once again issued a veiled threat to India. Siddhant Sibbal brings you more information on this.

Chinese envoy urges India to avoid 'Quasi alliances' and support SCO

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