President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday called Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and expressed his concern over the loss of life and property in the state due to rains and floods.

The governor apprised the President about rescue and relief works undertaken to mitigate people's plight, the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

As many as 129 people have died in rain-related incidents, including multiple landslides, in Maharashtra over the last two days, according to official data updated till Friday.

"President Shri Ram Nath Kovind called Maharashtra Governor Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari and expressed his concern over loss of life and property in the state due to rains and floods. The Governor apprised him about rescue and relief works undertaken to mitigate people's plight," the Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday called Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and expressed his concern over the loss of life and property in the state due to rains and floods.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday called Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and expressed his concern over the loss of life and property in the state due to rains and floods. The governor apprised the President about rescue and relief works undertaken to mitigate people's plight, the Rashtrapati Bhavan said. As many as 129 people have died in rain-related incidents, including multiple landslides, in Maharashtra over the last two days, according to official data updated till Friday. "President Shri Ram Nath Kovind called Maharashtra Governor Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari and expressed his concern over loss of life and property in the state due to rains and floods. The Governor apprised him about rescue and relief works undertaken to mitigate people's plight," the Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted.

Indian Prez calls Maharashtra governor, expresses concern over loss of life due to rains, floods

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India: Chennai troupe hosts musical concert with plants as audience

Thirty-six people have been killed in landslides caused by monsoon rains in India, authorities said Friday.

As many as 40 other people were missing after the three separate landslides on Thursday in the Raigad district of the western state of Maharashtra.

"At least 35 to 40 people are still trapped, we are trying to rescue them," a local official said, adding that "36 people have died after there were three landslides yesterday in the district caused by very heavy rainfull."

The Navy and Air Force meanwhile joined rescue efforts after the heavy rains caused floods that left thousands stranded.

Rescue efforts were being hampered by landslides blocking roads, including the main highway between Mumbai and Goa.

Water levels rose to 3.5 metres (12 feet) in areas of Chiplun, a city 250 kilometres (160 miles) from Mumbai, following 24 hours of uninterrupted rain that caused the Vashishti river to overflow, submerging roads and homes.

The Indian Navy deployed seven rescue teams equipped with rubber boats, life jackets and lifebuoys to the affected areas, along with a helicopter to airlift marooned residents. Specialist Navy divers accompanied each team.

India's meteorological department has issued red alerts for several regions in the state, indicating that heavy rainfall will continue for the next few days.

Frequent danger

Flooding and landslides are common during India's treacherous monsoon season between June and September, while also causing poorly constructed buildings and walls to collapse.

At least 34 people were killed after several homes were crushed by a collapsed wall and a landslide triggered in Mumbai, capital on Maharashtra, last weekend.

Rainwater also inundated a water purification complex, disrupting supply "in most of the parts of Mumbai", a megacity of 20 million people, civic authorities said.

Last month, 12 people were killed when a building collapsed in a Mumbai slum.

And last September, 39 people died when a three-storey apartment block collapsed in Bhiwandi near the financial capital.

Climate change is making India's monsoons stronger, according to a report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) published in April.

The report warned of potentially severe consequences for food, farming and the economy affecting nearly a fifth of the world's population.

"Since Indian society is overall affected by the monsoon in a very strong way, stronger variability produces problems for agriculture, but also for the organisation of public life," said Anders Levermann from PIK and Columbia University.&nbsp;

Last year, five of the most costly extreme weather events in the world were related to Asia's unusually rainy monsoon, according to a tally by the charity Christian Aid.

In 2013, some 6,000 people died when flash floods and landslides swept away entire villages in the Indian state of Uttarakhand as rivers swollen by monsoon rains overflowed.

Thirty-six people have been killed in landslides caused by monsoon rains in India, authorities said Friday. As many as 40 other people were missing after the three separate landslides on Thursday in the Raigad district of the western state of Maharashtra.

Thirty-six people have been killed in landslides caused by monsoon rains in India, authorities said Friday. As many as 40 other people were missing after the three separate landslides on Thursday in the Raigad district of the western state of Maharashtra. "At least 35 to 40 people are still trapped, we are trying to rescue them," a local official said, adding that "36 people have died after there were three landslides yesterday in the district caused by very heavy rainfull." The Navy and Air Force meanwhile joined rescue efforts after the heavy rains caused floods that left thousands stranded. Rescue efforts were being hampered by landslides blocking roads, including the main highway between Mumbai and Goa. Water levels rose to 3.5 metres (12 feet) in areas of Chiplun, a city 250 kilometres (160 miles) from Mumbai, following 24 hours of uninterrupted rain that caused the Vashishti river to overflow, submerging roads and homes. The Indian Navy deployed seven rescue teams equipped with rubber boats, life jackets and lifebuoys to the affected areas, along with a helicopter to airlift marooned residents. Specialist Navy divers accompanied each team. India's meteorological department has issued red alerts for several regions in the state, indicating that heavy rainfall will continue for the next few days. Frequent danger Flooding and landslides are common during India's treacherous monsoon season between June and September, while also causing poorly constructed buildings and walls to collapse. At least 34 people were killed after several homes were crushed by a collapsed wall and a landslide triggered in Mumbai, capital on Maharashtra, last weekend. Rainwater also inundated a water purification complex, disrupting supply "in most of the parts of Mumbai", a megacity of 20 million people, civic authorities said. Last month, 12 people were killed when a building collapsed in a Mumbai slum. And last September, 39 people died when a three-storey apartment block collapsed in Bhiwandi near the financial capital. Climate change is making India's monsoons stronger, according to a report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) published in April. The report warned of potentially severe consequences for food, farming and the economy affecting nearly a fifth of the world's population. "Since Indian society is overall affected by the monsoon in a very strong way, stronger variability produces problems for agriculture, but also for the organisation of public life," said Anders Levermann from PIK and Columbia University. Last year, five of the most costly extreme weather events in the world were related to Asia's unusually rainy monsoon, according to a tally by the charity Christian Aid. In 2013, some 6,000 people died when flash floods and landslides swept away entire villages in the Indian state of Uttarakhand as rivers swollen by monsoon rains overflowed.

Landslides kill 36 in India, dozens missing

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will embark on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs informed. During his visit, the Foreign Secretary will meet with his counterparts and conduct a detailed review of bilateral relations with a focus on the implementation of Roadmap 2030, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

"Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will visit the UK on July 23-24. During his visit, he will meet with his counterparts and conduct a detailed review of bilateral relations with a focus on the implementation of Roadmap 2030. He will also discuss regional, global issues," he said during a press conference here.

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"Both the countries adopted an ambitious project 2030 to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterparts to conduct a detailed review of bilateral relation between the countries," Bagchi said.

During the conference, the MEA spokesperson also informed about countries easing travel restrictions for India. "We have been taking up with foreign countries the need to ease travel restrictions of Indians. We believe this easing will be an important step, Bagchi said.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will embark on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs informed. During his visit, the Foreign Secretary will meet with his counterparts and conduct a detailed review of bilateral relations with a focus on the implementation of Roadmap 2030, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will embark on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs informed. During his visit, the Foreign Secretary will meet with his counterparts and conduct a detailed review of bilateral relations with a focus on the implementation of Roadmap 2030, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. "Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will visit the UK on July 23-24. During his visit, he will meet with his counterparts and conduct a detailed review of bilateral relations with a focus on the implementation of Roadmap 2030. He will also discuss regional, global issues," he said during a press conference here. Also read | Afghan president calls Danish Siddiqui's father and extends condolences "Both the countries adopted an ambitious project 2030 to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterparts to conduct a detailed review of bilateral relation between the countries," Bagchi said. During the conference, the MEA spokesperson also informed about countries easing travel restrictions for India. "We have been taking up with foreign countries the need to ease travel restrictions of Indians. We believe this easing will be an important step, Bagchi said.

Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla will visit UK on July 23-24

President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly and the current Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid has publicly supported India’s bid for a seat at the United Nations Security Council as a permanent member.

UNGA President-elect Abdullah Shahid supports India’s bid to the UNSC

Indian officials have nabbed multiple drug mules carrying heroin - reportedly smuggled by the Taliban. Where are these drugs headed? How did they reach India?

Gravitas: Taliban smuggling heroin via India

A 12-year-old boy who was undergoing treatment for Avian Influenza has died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. This is the first bird flu death recorded in the country since the beginning of this year.

India reports this year's first human death from bird flu

In the Maldives, vested interests seem to be whipping up anti-India sentiments. An online publication is pushing an 'India Out' campaign. The relentless attacks have created a serious security risk for Indian diplomats.

Gravitas: Who is fuelling an anti-India campaign in the Maldives?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit India next week. Blinken is expected to hold bilateral talks with external affairs minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi. Watch this report to know more.

US Secretary of State to hold talks with Indian counterpart

The England Cricket Board has declared its squad for the initial two Test matches against India. England and India will clash in the Test series from the 4th of August at the Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The hosts have named a 17-member squad for the first two matches.

Jofra Archer, recovering from an elbow injury, and Chris Woakes, experiencing a wounded heel, are as yet not match-fit to be incorporated in the squad.&nbsp;

Bowling all-rounder Ollie Robinson has gotten back to the England squad as the hosts have declared a solid 17-member squad for the initial two matches of the five-match Test series against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-team-india-seal-the-odi-series-as-deepak-chahar-shines-with-the-bat-399328" hreflang="en">Cricket: Team India seal the ODI series as Deepak Chahar shines with the bat</a>

Ollie Robinson had an incredible debut for England against New Zealand, where he got seven wickets and furthermore contributed critical runs with the bat.

Having served his suspension, Ollie Robinson will seem to be a significant party of the England bowling attack and will be vital to giving them the balance.

Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran have additionally been included in the squad after being rested against New Zealand in the two-Test series. The selectors have offered Jonny Bairstow one more chance to resuscitate his Test vocation.&nbsp;

Opener Haseeb Hameed, whose last Test was against India in 2016, was additionally named in the squad. Haseeb Hameed partook in a paramount Test debut back in 2016 against India, making scores of 31 and 82 in Rajkot. He averages a sound of 43.80 in three Tests, scoring 219 runs.&nbsp;

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England's Squad: Joe Root (captain), James Anderson, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Dom Sibley, Mark Wood.

The England Cricket Board has declared its squad for the initial two Test matches against India. England and India will clash in the Test series from the 4th of August at the Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

The England Cricket Board has declared its squad for the initial two Test matches against India. England and India will clash in the Test series from the 4th of August at the Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The hosts have named a 17-member squad for the first two matches. Jofra Archer, recovering from an elbow injury, and Chris Woakes, experiencing a wounded heel, are as yet not match-fit to be incorporated in the squad. Bowling all-rounder Ollie Robinson has gotten back to the England squad as the hosts have declared a solid 17-member squad for the initial two matches of the five-match Test series against India. ALSO READ: Cricket: Team India seal the ODI series as Deepak Chahar shines with the bat Ollie Robinson had an incredible debut for England against New Zealand, where he got seven wickets and furthermore contributed critical runs with the bat. Having served his suspension, Ollie Robinson will seem to be a significant party of the England bowling attack and will be vital to giving them the balance. Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran have additionally been included in the squad after being rested against New Zealand in the two-Test series. The selectors have offered Jonny Bairstow one more chance to resuscitate his Test vocation. Opener Haseeb Hameed, whose last Test was against India in 2016, was additionally named in the squad. Haseeb Hameed partook in a paramount Test debut back in 2016 against India, making scores of 31 and 82 in Rajkot. He averages a sound of 43.80 in three Tests, scoring 219 runs. We've named a 17-player squad for the opening two Tests of the LV= Insurance Test Series against India. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #ENGvIND 🇮🇳 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 21, 2021 × England's Squad: Joe Root (captain), James Anderson, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Dom Sibley, Mark Wood.

Cricket: Haseeb Hameed, Ollie Robinson included in England's 17-member squad against India

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has said that "growing convergence" between India and Japan on "strategic and economic issues" has the "potential to shape a multi-polar world that is more peaceful, secure and sustainable."

Both countries share close relations and had elevated ties to "Special Strategic and Global Partnership". Both countries have an annual summit-level mechanism, that alternates between the two&nbsp;countries as 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers dialogue.

Shringla said, "progress in the economic pillar of our ties has been accompanied by an increasing convergence in our strategic outlook towards the region. This is reflected in our shared vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region."

He explained, "this convergence is not only seen in bilateral exchanges but also in the increasing comfort in working with other like-minded partners through plurilateral forums, involving other partners."

India, US, Australia and Japan have a Quad grouping that had the first heads of government level meeting earlier this year virtually.&nbsp;Later this year, Washington is expected to host the first in-person meeting. 
&nbsp;

Amid the Covid crisis, the grouping had met regularly at the foreign secretary-level virtually to exchange best practices. Meanwhile,&nbsp;India, Japan, along with Australia are working on Supply Chain Resilience.

The Indian foreign secretary&nbsp;said, "COVID-19 pandemic has not only generated severe economic stresses but would have a long term impact on the geopolitical situation", and quoted PM Modi who said "the friendship between India and Japan has become more relevant to our partnership, global stability, and prosperity in this COVID pandemic era.”

Under the ongoing partnership, both now plan to work on joint projects in other&nbsp;countries which include the Russian far east and the pacific island states.

Both have a project in Kenya and Japan's connectivity projects in India's North East are being extended to Bangladesh.&nbsp;Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) stands at over Rs 1,600 crore in India's northeast with projects, many of them focused on connectivity&nbsp;in seven&nbsp;states of the region.&nbsp;

Shringla said, "India and Japan are continuing to enhance their ability to work with other partners in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. We are looking at deepening our cooperation in third countries, moving beyond India’s immediate neighbourhood to the Russian Far East and the Pacific Island States."

Japan is also a lead partner in the "connectivity pillar"&nbsp;of the Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). IPOI has 7 pillars and was launched by Indian PM Modi in 2019 at the&nbsp;East Asia Summit.&nbsp;

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has said that "growing convergence" between India and Japan on "strategic and economic issues" has the "potential to shape a multi-polar world that is more peaceful, secure and sustainable.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has said that "growing convergence" between India and Japan on "strategic and economic issues" has the "potential to shape a multi-polar world that is more peaceful, secure and sustainable." Both countries share close relations and had elevated ties to "Special Strategic and Global Partnership". Both countries have an annual summit-level mechanism, that alternates between the two countries as 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers dialogue. Shringla said, "progress in the economic pillar of our ties has been accompanied by an increasing convergence in our strategic outlook towards the region. This is reflected in our shared vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region." He explained, "this convergence is not only seen in bilateral exchanges but also in the increasing comfort in working with other like-minded partners through plurilateral forums, involving other partners." India, US, Australia and Japan have a Quad grouping that had the first heads of government level meeting earlier this year virtually. Later this year, Washington is expected to host the first in-person meeting. Amid the Covid crisis, the grouping had met regularly at the foreign secretary-level virtually to exchange best practices. Meanwhile, India, Japan, along with Australia are working on Supply Chain Resilience. The Indian foreign secretary said, "COVID-19 pandemic has not only generated severe economic stresses but would have a long term impact on the geopolitical situation", and quoted PM Modi who said "the friendship between India and Japan has become more relevant to our partnership, global stability, and prosperity in this COVID pandemic era.” Under the ongoing partnership, both now plan to work on joint projects in other countries which include the Russian far east and the pacific island states. Both have a project in Kenya and Japan's connectivity projects in India's North East are being extended to Bangladesh. Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) stands at over Rs 1,600 crore in India's northeast with projects, many of them focused on connectivity in seven states of the region. Shringla said, "India and Japan are continuing to enhance their ability to work with other partners in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. We are looking at deepening our cooperation in third countries, moving beyond India’s immediate neighbourhood to the Russian Far East and the Pacific Island States." Japan is also a lead partner in the "connectivity pillar" of the Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). IPOI has 7 pillars and was launched by Indian PM Modi in 2019 at the East Asia Summit.

India, Japan can shape multipolar world: Foreign Secretary Shringla

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action.

The stage is set and the arrangements are finished. From July 23 to August 8, 2021, top competitors from more than 200 nations will seek greatness in the greatest multi-sport event.&nbsp;

The Indian crew as well, have fired up their preparations and would expect to get their best medal haul. Up until now, India has bagged the most number of medals in the 2012 London Olympics by winning two silver and four bronze medals.&nbsp;

Throughout the entire existence of the Olympic Games, India has won an aggregate of 28 medals which involves nine gold, seven silver, and 12 bronze medals. The hockey team has been the most successful by winning 11 medals, trailed by Wrestling with five medals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-invisible-hand-behind-the-tokyo-olympics-399323" hreflang="en">The invisible hand behind the Tokyo Olympics</a>

With a look at the truth, India's populace is enormous and we have just 28 Olympic medals in our kitty up until now. To comprehend the 'why' better, we should return to the set of experiences. India started to take part in the Olympics in the year 1900. The Indian field hockey team was prevailing in the opposition, making great dread among the adversaries post the 1920s. After exceptional exhibitions particularly in Hockey, India's reality remaining in the Olympic games started to venture down.&nbsp;

India won a gold in Field Hockey in 1980 and the following time we won a medal was in 1996. You may feel that in the midst of these, what compromised with our sporting culture? There are various perspectives on this subject. Just the Government or the foundation, absence of offices isn't to be accused. Indians for quite a while believed sports to be a sporting movement. How might we deliver medalists when we urge kids just to excel in academics?

It is said that the year 1996 set apart the start of another time for India at the games. Going to the trendy, it is to be accepted that Abhinav Bindra's gold in 2008 changed the elements of sports in India. With not dismissing anybody, sports in India have encountered high points and low points and this is the ideal opportunity to move towards greatness. Individuals examine different games without simply adhering to one and this is an accomplishment in itself.&nbsp;

India delivers such countless commendable competitors consistently but then our medal tally never takes off high and sports infrastructure continues to hold the key.

India&nbsp;needs an appropriate framework for preparation and practice sessions of competitors that could make them more skillful and exceptional to manage a-list contenders. It would have been far superior if our competitors would gain admittance to a better foundation and will play the whole way across the nation to remain rehearsed.

With plans like Target Olympic Podium Scheme, Khelo India, Fit India, we are seeing the Government putting accentuation on allowing an equivalent opportunity to competitors to exhibit their ability. Our competitors have endeavored to get the due acknowledgment that they merit.

Every Olympics is challenging, Tokyo 2020 will be especially overwhelming and will test the personality of each competitor. It's difficult to get ready for an event of this extent when the world is going through such difficulties. Adjusting to the changing circumstances will be the key.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, these entanglements, going into the Olympics, the current unforeseen will be India's best chance at the Olympics than ever. While arriving at double-digits in the medal count isn't completely incomprehensible, this can be India's best chance at Tokyo 2020.

While 28 medals in the Olympics so far can't be named as spectacular, although, there has been a fast ascent in interest in Olympic games in India. Sports infrastructure has improved and with the developing spotlight on sports and fitness, there is no motivation behind why India can't improve.&nbsp;

Like clockwork, basically for a short period, the focus shifts to the Olympics and everyone applauds the Olympic medalists. Whether India penetrates the double-digit hindrance or not, we trust new whizzes rise up out of Tokyo who proceeds to direct and motivate the country.

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action.

The road to Tokyo 2020 has positively not been smooth. However, in the wake of being rescheduled because of the worldwide pandemic and postponed by nearly 12 months, the world's greatest brandishing event is at long last set to transform into action. The stage is set and the arrangements are finished. From July 23 to August 8, 2021, top competitors from more than 200 nations will seek greatness in the greatest multi-sport event. The Indian crew as well, have fired up their preparations and would expect to get their best medal haul. Up until now, India has bagged the most number of medals in the 2012 London Olympics by winning two silver and four bronze medals. Throughout the entire existence of the Olympic Games, India has won an aggregate of 28 medals which involves nine gold, seven silver, and 12 bronze medals. The hockey team has been the most successful by winning 11 medals, trailed by Wrestling with five medals. ALSO READ: The invisible hand behind the Tokyo Olympics With a look at the truth, India's populace is enormous and we have just 28 Olympic medals in our kitty up until now. To comprehend the 'why' better, we should return to the set of experiences. India started to take part in the Olympics in the year 1900. The Indian field hockey team was prevailing in the opposition, making great dread among the adversaries post the 1920s. After exceptional exhibitions particularly in Hockey, India's reality remaining in the Olympic games started to venture down. India won a gold in Field Hockey in 1980 and the following time we won a medal was in 1996. You may feel that in the midst of these, what compromised with our sporting culture? There are various perspectives on this subject. Just the Government or the foundation, absence of offices isn't to be accused. Indians for quite a while believed sports to be a sporting movement. How might we deliver medalists when we urge kids just to excel in academics? It is said that the year 1996 set apart the start of another time for India at the games. Going to the trendy, it is to be accepted that Abhinav Bindra's gold in 2008 changed the elements of sports in India. With not dismissing anybody, sports in India have encountered high points and low points and this is the ideal opportunity to move towards greatness. Individuals examine different games without simply adhering to one and this is an accomplishment in itself. India delivers such countless commendable competitors consistently but then our medal tally never takes off high and sports infrastructure continues to hold the key. India needs an appropriate framework for preparation and practice sessions of competitors that could make them more skillful and exceptional to manage a-list contenders. It would have been far superior if our competitors would gain admittance to a better foundation and will play the whole way across the nation to remain rehearsed. With plans like Target Olympic Podium Scheme, Khelo India, Fit India, we are seeing the Government putting accentuation on allowing an equivalent opportunity to competitors to exhibit their ability. Our competitors have endeavored to get the due acknowledgment that they merit. Every Olympics is challenging, Tokyo 2020 will be especially overwhelming and will test the personality of each competitor. It's difficult to get ready for an event of this extent when the world is going through such difficulties. Adjusting to the changing circumstances will be the key. Nevertheless, these entanglements, going into the Olympics, the current unforeseen will be India's best chance at the Olympics than ever. While arriving at double-digits in the medal count isn't completely incomprehensible, this can be India's best chance at Tokyo 2020. While 28 medals in the Olympics so far can't be named as spectacular, although, there has been a fast ascent in interest in Olympic games in India. Sports infrastructure has improved and with the developing spotlight on sports and fitness, there is no motivation behind why India can't improve. Like clockwork, basically for a short period, the focus shifts to the Olympics and everyone applauds the Olympic medalists. Whether India penetrates the double-digit hindrance or not, we trust new whizzes rise up out of Tokyo who proceeds to direct and motivate the country.

Tokyo Olympics: Can India breach the double-digit medal tally this year?

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology will question officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on July 28 in connection with reports about the illegal surveillance using Pegasus spyware.

Pegasus row: Parliament panel to hold meeting on data security on July 28

Indian Navy chief Admiral&nbsp;Karambir&nbsp;Singh will be visiting Russia&nbsp;next week to witness the Russian Navy Day celebrations. He is the&nbsp;third high-level Indian official to visit Russia&nbsp;this year&nbsp;after Foreign Secretary Harsh&nbsp;Shringla&nbsp;and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. Indian Navy chief has travelled to Myanmar, Bangladesh&nbsp;and&nbsp;Australia in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia will hold the main&nbsp;celebration&nbsp;of the navy day in St Petersburg on July 25. It is a national holiday in Russia and is celebrated on the last Sunday of July. Indian Navy Ship (INS) Tabar will be taking&nbsp;part&nbsp;in the celebrations of the Navy Day of Russia. The ship had sailed from India last month and reached&nbsp;Russia, after exercising with&nbsp;navies of countries,&nbsp;such as&nbsp;Greece, France and Egypt.&nbsp;

Navy chiefs of other countries,&nbsp;such as&nbsp;Iran's Navy Commander Admiral Hossein&nbsp;Khanzadi,&nbsp;will also be present in the country for the celebrations.&nbsp;

The visit by the Indian Navy chief to the country happens at a time when both countries are all set to host the maiden foreign and defence&nbsp;ministers dialogue and annual India-Russia summit-level talks.&nbsp;

Indian Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh will be visiting Russia next week to witness the Russian Navy Day celebrations. He is the third high-level Indian official to visit Russia this year after Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Indian Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh will be visiting Russia next week to witness the Russian Navy Day celebrations. He is the third high-level Indian official to visit Russia this year after Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. Indian Navy chief has travelled to Myanmar, Bangladesh and Australia in the past. Russia will hold the main celebration of the navy day in St Petersburg on July 25. It is a national holiday in Russia and is celebrated on the last Sunday of July. Indian Navy Ship (INS) Tabar will be taking part in the celebrations of the Navy Day of Russia. The ship had sailed from India last month and reached Russia, after exercising with navies of countries, such as Greece, France and Egypt. Navy chiefs of other countries, such as Iran's Navy Commander Admiral Hossein Khanzadi, will also be present in the country for the celebrations. The visit by the Indian Navy chief to the country happens at a time when both countries are all set to host the maiden foreign and defence ministers dialogue and annual India-Russia summit-level talks.

Indian Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh to visit Russia next week 

According to the data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's domestic air passenger traffic grew 47 per cent in June as compared to May.

World Business Watch: India air passenger traffic grows 47% in June

Suzuki Motor will enter the electric vehicle (EV) market by 2025 starting in its stronghold market, India. Reports say the automaker plans an all-electric compact model to be made available for around $13,600 after government subsidies are taken into account.

World Business Watch: Suzuki to enter electric vehicle market by 2025, starting with India

The Taliban is getting stronger each day. The threat to India cannot be downplayed. With hostile neighbours already intent on breaching borders, the Taliban could act as a force multiplier. On Gravitas Plus, WION's Palki Sharma tells you what India's options are.

Gravitas Plus | Taliban's Rise: The threat to India

Heavy downpours overnight have caused severe water logging in India's financial capital Mumbai. Apart from disrupting local trains and traffic, the rains have also caused a wall collapse resulting in deaths of over 15 people.

India: Heavy downpour causes water logging

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. 
 
Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris. Rescuers were also shown carrying the injured on makeshift stretchers. 
 
Within the last 24 hours authorities have so far reported 11 incidents of houses or walls collapsing in the Mumbai area, officials said. 
 
In one neighbourhood, about half a dozen shacks located at the base of a hill collapsed on top of each other, officials said. 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences in a tweet and announced aid for the victims. 
 
Several areas in the city were flooded after heavy rainfall over the last 24 hours and suburban train services were disrupted, crippling India's financial capital. 
 
Mumbai and the coast of India's industrial Maharashtra state are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next four days, the weather department said on Sunday. 
 
Torrential rain, especially during India's July-September monsoon, often triggers the collapse of buildings, especially older or illegally built structures.

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris.

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris. Rescuers were also shown carrying the injured on makeshift stretchers. Within the last 24 hours authorities have so far reported 11 incidents of houses or walls collapsing in the Mumbai area, officials said. In one neighbourhood, about half a dozen shacks located at the base of a hill collapsed on top of each other, officials said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences in a tweet and announced aid for the victims. Several areas in the city were flooded after heavy rainfall over the last 24 hours and suburban train services were disrupted, crippling India's financial capital. Mumbai and the coast of India's industrial Maharashtra state are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next four days, the weather department said on Sunday. Torrential rain, especially during India's July-September monsoon, often triggers the collapse of buildings, especially older or illegally built structures.

Landslides kill at least 25 in Mumbai after heavy rains

Hollywood filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, who is gearing up for his upcoming release&nbsp;‘Old’, has a thing for India—he was born in the country and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sir-ben-kingsley-freddie-mercury-charli-xcx-hollywood-celebs-you-didnt-know-have-indian-roots-397893"> is of Indian descent</a>.&nbsp;

 
So when the topic of him making films in his home country came, he told an entertainment portal that he would like to make ‘one film or at least a &nbsp;part of it’ in India. “It’s an interesting paradox. I feel close to India. My parents are rooted deeply in the culture, while my wife, kids and I have an American side to our lives. My mom and dad want to feed me Indian desserts and pooris every day. That’s just one of the many things that are very Indian in my everyday life. Having said that, I want to make one of my movies, or at least a part of it, in India. I hope that will happen soon,” he was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

 
While talking about his inspirations for the movies he makes—mostly from the supernatural genre—Shyamalan said that he is constantly thinking about stories and different ideas. “I spend all my time thinking about stories and being drawn to ideas. They do sometimes find me. ‘Old’ stems from a graphic novel that my daughters gave me for Father’s Day three years ago. When I read the premise about time moving fast on this beach, I thought this was a powerful engine. I always look for an unusual villain, something that’s not normal, like a guy chasing you with a knife. Even if that is the case, it’s set against time running out speedily. Of course, it can’t be just that. Also, my daughters are deep thinkers, well-read and thoughtful women. They are drawn to complex premises and they know that I read a lot. They always try to look for books for me that have these complicated things at the centre. When I think about stories, I look for something that has a thoughtful resonance, has the genre elements to hold the audience and offers a lot to think about years later,” said the director.

 
Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, ‘Old’ features Gael García Bernal, Vicky Krieps, Rufus Sewell, Abbey Lee, among others.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hollywood filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, who is gearing up for his upcoming release ‘Old’, has a thing for India—he was born in the country and is of Indian descent.

Hollywood filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, who is gearing up for his upcoming release ‘Old’, has a thing for India—he was born in the country and is of Indian descent. So when the topic of him making films in his home country came, he told an entertainment portal that he would like to make ‘one film or at least a part of it’ in India. “It’s an interesting paradox. I feel close to India. My parents are rooted deeply in the culture, while my wife, kids and I have an American side to our lives. My mom and dad want to feed me Indian desserts and pooris every day. That’s just one of the many things that are very Indian in my everyday life. Having said that, I want to make one of my movies, or at least a part of it, in India. I hope that will happen soon,” he was quoted as saying. While talking about his inspirations for the movies he makes—mostly from the supernatural genre—Shyamalan said that he is constantly thinking about stories and different ideas. “I spend all my time thinking about stories and being drawn to ideas. They do sometimes find me. ‘Old’ stems from a graphic novel that my daughters gave me for Father’s Day three years ago. When I read the premise about time moving fast on this beach, I thought this was a powerful engine. I always look for an unusual villain, something that’s not normal, like a guy chasing you with a knife. Even if that is the case, it’s set against time running out speedily. Of course, it can’t be just that. Also, my daughters are deep thinkers, well-read and thoughtful women. They are drawn to complex premises and they know that I read a lot. They always try to look for books for me that have these complicated things at the centre. When I think about stories, I look for something that has a thoughtful resonance, has the genre elements to hold the audience and offers a lot to think about years later,” said the director. Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, ‘Old’ features Gael García Bernal, Vicky Krieps, Rufus Sewell, Abbey Lee, among others.

M. Night Shyamalan: I want to make at least one of my movies in India

In the Kashmir Valley, J&K government is planning to revive river transport. Three bus boats have been brought from New Zealand to ply on river Jhelum in Srinagar.

India: Jhelum water transport set to make a comeback

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Tashkent and discussed the fast-evolving situation in Afghanistan in the face of the withdrawal of US forces from the country.

Indian EAM meets Ashraf Ghani  in Tashkent, discusses situation in Afghanistan

RBI has banned Mastercard for violating data-storage laws. When does the ban kick in? Which banks does it impact? Will it impact existing customers too? Will domestic card companies benefit from this decision? Palki Sharma answers all your questions.

Gravitas: Explained: India's Mastercard Ban

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