The Indian government has announced the price for the Astra Zeneca vaccine little more than $3 per dose. How much the other countries are paying for the same vaccine?

What are countries paying for the Covid-19 vaccine?

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana.&nbsp;

The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-lab-grown-chicken-nugget-debuts-in-singapore-351667">Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore</a>

The victim, who was also the owner of the rooster, died due to loss of blood before he could reach a hospital in the Karimnagar district earlier this week, local police officer B. Jeevan told news agency 
AFP.

The cop also said that the owner was among the 16 people who organised the cockfight in the village of Lothunur.&nbsp;

"We are searching for the other 15 people involved in organising the illegal fight," the police officer said.

The rooster was briefly held at a local police station before being sent to a poultry farm.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-afghanistans-iconic-chicken-street-fades-peace-brings-new-hope-347017">As Afghanistan's iconic chicken street fades, peace brings new hope</a>

The other people involved could face charges of manslaughter, illegal betting, and organising the cockfight.&nbsp;

Such fights are banned but are common in rural parts of the country in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha.&nbsp;

Knives or blades up to three-inch are fitted into a bird's legs for the bight as people bet for the match.&nbsp;

Thousands of roosters die in these battles, still, large gatherings participate to witness the event.&nbsp;

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana. The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday.

A man died after a chicken tied with a knife engaged in an illegal cockfight accidentally cut into his groin in the southern Indian state of Telangana. The knife was attached to the rooster's leg for the cockfight and as it tried to escape, the man's groin was accidentally hit, police said on Saturday. Also read | Now, lab-grown chicken nugget debuts in Singapore The victim, who was also the owner of the rooster, died due to loss of blood before he could reach a hospital in the Karimnagar district earlier this week, local police officer B. Jeevan told news agency AFP. The cop also said that the owner was among the 16 people who organised the cockfight in the village of Lothunur. "We are searching for the other 15 people involved in organising the illegal fight," the police officer said. The rooster was briefly held at a local police station before being sent to a poultry farm. Also read | As Afghanistan's iconic chicken street fades, peace brings new hope The other people involved could face charges of manslaughter, illegal betting, and organising the cockfight. Such fights are banned but are common in rural parts of the country in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha. Knives or blades up to three-inch are fitted into a bird's legs for the bight as people bet for the match. Thousands of roosters die in these battles, still, large gatherings participate to witness the event.

Owner dies after bird attached with knife hits him during cockfight

#GravitasPlus with Palki Sharma Upadhyay | This #NationalScienceDay, should India rethink its approach to teaching science? Make it about passion not compulsion. Research, not rote learning. Focus on Innovation in order to be truly #Atmanirbhar.

Gravitas Plus: Is India prioritising rote learning over research?

Ahead of 2nd anniversary of the Balakot Airstrike, India & Pakistan issued a joint statement promising to observe all agreements on ceasefire at LoC. Can Islamabad be trusted to keep the promise? Here's what WION's Palki Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Decoding India-Pakistan ceasefire pact

Discovering Odisha - India's Best Kept Secret

Discovering Odisha - India's Best Kept Secret ✓ Temple architecture ✓ Buddhist sites ✓ Heritage palaces ✓ Stunning beaches ✓ Nature and ecotourism ✓ Wildlife and biodiversity ✓ Delectable cuisine Odisha offers many delights to the discerning traveler. Discover India's best-kept secret with us on WION.

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence &amp; the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.&nbsp;

India's comments come after the UN High commissioner raked protest by farmers, Jammu &amp; Kashmir during her oral statement during the ongoing session of the human rights council criticising New Delhi.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unhrc-calls-for-probe-into-sri-lankas-conflict-366312/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During an India statement, the Permanent Representative of India in Geneva Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey said, "The unprovoked violence on our Republic Day in the name of farmers’ rights, apparently, left her unmoved. Her indifference to terrorism is, of course, not new. Objectivity and impartiality have to be the hallmarks of any Human Rights assessment."

Pointing, "We are sorry to see that the High Commissioner’s oral update is lacking in both"

In the past as well there has been a number of run-ins between the Indian govt &amp; the UN high commissioner, especially on her silence on the issue of cross-border terror.

Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey during Friday's statement yet again reminded that "she appeared as oblivious of the enormous efforts made by my Government to address the challenges, as indeed of many of the factors driving these challenges."

Importantly, India during its statement mentioned the farm laws and situation in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

On farm laws, the envoy said, "the purpose of enacting three farm Acts is to enable farmers to realise better price for their products and enhance their income" and the Indian govt has "shown utmost respect" for protests by farmers and has "remained engaged in dialogue" with them to address their concerns.

On Jammu and Kashmir, he highlighted the rationale of "constitutional changes" of August 2019 of removal of special status which has "given impetus to socio-economic development, ended decades of discrimination". The union territory recently saw the District Development Council (DDC) elections.

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi. India's comments come after the UN High commissioner raked protest by farmers, Jammu & Kashmir during her oral statement during the ongoing session of the human rights council criticising New Delhi. Watch | During an India statement, the Permanent Representative of India in Geneva Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey said, "The unprovoked violence on our Republic Day in the name of farmers’ rights, apparently, left her unmoved. Her indifference to terrorism is, of course, not new. Objectivity and impartiality have to be the hallmarks of any Human Rights assessment." Pointing, "We are sorry to see that the High Commissioner’s oral update is lacking in both" In the past as well there has been a number of run-ins between the Indian govt & the UN high commissioner, especially on her silence on the issue of cross-border terror. Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey during Friday's statement yet again reminded that "she appeared as oblivious of the enormous efforts made by my Government to address the challenges, as indeed of many of the factors driving these challenges." Importantly, India during its statement mentioned the farm laws and situation in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. On farm laws, the envoy said, "the purpose of enacting three farm Acts is to enable farmers to realise better price for their products and enhance their income" and the Indian govt has "shown utmost respect" for protests by farmers and has "remained engaged in dialogue" with them to address their concerns. On Jammu and Kashmir, he highlighted the rationale of "constitutional changes" of August 2019 of removal of special status which has "given impetus to socio-economic development, ended decades of discrimination". The union territory recently saw the District Development Council (DDC) elections.

India questions UN High Commissioner's silence on terror, Red Fort violence

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on red fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.

India questions UN High Commissioner's silence on terror, red fort violence

Pressure politics, if used wisely, can be a powerful tool. The best example is Sri Lanka. In April last year, the country introduced a new rule. All coronavirus victims would be cremated and no burials.&nbsp;

There was no scientific explanation for it. A few Buddhist monks claimed burying the victims would contaminate the ground and the government agreed. A classic case of appeasement politics but they probably didn't anticipate the backlash. Rights groups and community leaders were appalled.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sri-lanka-faces-scrutiny-at-unhrc-366303/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The organisation of Islamic cooperation expressed concern that Muslims on the island were being denied dignity in death. In December, 19 bodies were forcefully cremated, including that of a baby.&nbsp;

The world community turned on Colombo. The Lankan Government had backed itself into a corner. Now, the order has been revoked and there are no more forced cremations. Muslims are free to bury their relatives. The pressure campaign worked but there's more to this story than activism.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is facing a stern test at the UN Human Rights Council. There's a new resolution doing the rounds that slams the country for its dismal reconciliation efforts.&nbsp;

It's been 12 years since the civil war ended. The Tamils are still awaiting justice. Far from punishing the war criminals, the government is rewarding them. Several former generals accused of war crimes have been appointed to government jobs to avoid being indicted at the UN, Sri Lanka needs help. It needs to gather enough votes to kill the resolution by reversing the burial ban, Colombo is wooing Islamic nations. Many of whom have a seat at the council. So while the global outcry definitely helped political convenience too played a part. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Here's another reason why we can't call this a change of heart. The Lankan government is considering a controversial law, one that would ban burqas in public. The cabinet has been consulted and with their permission, this proposal could make its way to the Parliament.&nbsp;

It's one step forward and two steps back. Sri Lanka's justification for the burqa ban is a time-tested one.&nbsp;

This has become the norm under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Stigmatisation has been used as a state policy while the government drums up anti-minority sentiments.&nbsp;

It seems oblivious to real issues like China's expanding debt trap and Sri Lanka's finances are in a shambles. The treasury is almost drained. Sri Lanka's solution is to borrow from China. The country is seeking $ 2.2 billion dollars from Chinese banks.&nbsp;

Borrowing from China is never a good idea as it invariably ends with Beijing taking over strategic assets. Sri Lanka should know this because it's happened to them already.&nbsp;

The Hambantota fiasco where China holds a 99-year lease on the strategic port and if reports are true, there is an option to extend it by another 99 years. Colombo wants to renegotiate the deal but Beijing isn't interested. Every time, there is a new project in Sri Lanka. Chinese companies are first-off the block as they secure contracts with exorbitant bids and set up strategic Chinese presence all over the island. This is exactly what's happening in northern Sri Lanka. Three islands are being developed as clean energy hubs. The contracts have been given to Chinese firms but here's where it gets interesting.&nbsp;

These islands are just 48 kilometres from mainland India. How convenient that China's strategic and economic interests converge so seamlessly! Right now, Sri Lanka finds itself in a vulnerable spot. It needs diplomatic backing at the United Nations and financial support to keep the country running.&nbsp;

It's not an ideal situation for any sovereign nation but then again, that's where misplaced priorities get you. &nbsp;

Pressure politics, if used wisely, can be a powerful tool. The best example is Sri Lanka. In April last year, the country introduced a new rule. All coronavirus victims would be cremated and no burials.

Pressure politics, if used wisely, can be a powerful tool. The best example is Sri Lanka. In April last year, the country introduced a new rule. All coronavirus victims would be cremated and no burials. There was no scientific explanation for it. A few Buddhist monks claimed burying the victims would contaminate the ground and the government agreed. A classic case of appeasement politics but they probably didn't anticipate the backlash. Rights groups and community leaders were appalled. The organisation of Islamic cooperation expressed concern that Muslims on the island were being denied dignity in death. In December, 19 bodies were forcefully cremated, including that of a baby. The world community turned on Colombo. The Lankan Government had backed itself into a corner. Now, the order has been revoked and there are no more forced cremations. Muslims are free to bury their relatives. The pressure campaign worked but there's more to this story than activism. Sri Lanka is facing a stern test at the UN Human Rights Council. There's a new resolution doing the rounds that slams the country for its dismal reconciliation efforts. It's been 12 years since the civil war ended. The Tamils are still awaiting justice. Far from punishing the war criminals, the government is rewarding them. Several former generals accused of war crimes have been appointed to government jobs to avoid being indicted at the UN, Sri Lanka needs help. It needs to gather enough votes to kill the resolution by reversing the burial ban, Colombo is wooing Islamic nations. Many of whom have a seat at the council. So while the global outcry definitely helped political convenience too played a part. Here's another reason why we can't call this a change of heart. The Lankan government is considering a controversial law, one that would ban burqas in public. The cabinet has been consulted and with their permission, this proposal could make its way to the Parliament. It's one step forward and two steps back. Sri Lanka's justification for the burqa ban is a time-tested one. This has become the norm under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Stigmatisation has been used as a state policy while the government drums up anti-minority sentiments. It seems oblivious to real issues like China's expanding debt trap and Sri Lanka's finances are in a shambles. The treasury is almost drained. Sri Lanka's solution is to borrow from China. The country is seeking $ 2.2 billion dollars from Chinese banks. Borrowing from China is never a good idea as it invariably ends with Beijing taking over strategic assets. Sri Lanka should know this because it's happened to them already. The Hambantota fiasco where China holds a 99-year lease on the strategic port and if reports are true, there is an option to extend it by another 99 years. Colombo wants to renegotiate the deal but Beijing isn't interested. Every time, there is a new project in Sri Lanka. Chinese companies are first-off the block as they secure contracts with exorbitant bids and set up strategic Chinese presence all over the island. This is exactly what's happening in northern Sri Lanka. Three islands are being developed as clean energy hubs. The contracts have been given to Chinese firms but here's where it gets interesting. These islands are just 48 kilometres from mainland India. How convenient that China's strategic and economic interests converge so seamlessly! Right now, Sri Lanka finds itself in a vulnerable spot. It needs diplomatic backing at the United Nations and financial support to keep the country running. It's not an ideal situation for any sovereign nation but then again, that's where misplaced priorities get you.

Sri Lanka sailing in troubled waters

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later.&nbsp;

Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January.

Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Additional Secretary at India's Ministry of Shipping said, "Recently, we sent two mobile harbour cranes to the Chabahar port. In March, two more cranes will be sent. They are ready to be loaded to the ship near Venice. Two more will reach by June end.

"There are plans to procure more rail-mounted gantry cranes/rail-mounted cranes, for which bidding is going on, and this infrastructure is presently sufficient for the operation of the port. As it picks up for products, cargos going to Afghanistan and beyond, we will add more infrastructure."

India will host Maritime India Summit from March 2 to 4. The summit will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Ministers from Afghanistan, Armenia, Iran, Russia and Uzbekistan will participate. More than 1 lakh registrations have taken place for the summit.&nbsp;

Bandyopadhyay said, "Chabahar has been a very ambitious project of the country. We have sent consignments of wheat and pesticides as required by Afghanistan."

At present, there are eight cranes at the port and four lifters.&nbsp;

Chabahar is key to India's westwards connectivity -- providing connectivity to Afghanistan and beyond.&nbsp;

Chabahar is also key to the International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and reduces the distance between the location by 40 per cent and cost by 30 per cent.

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later. Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January.

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later. Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January. Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Additional Secretary at India's Ministry of Shipping said, "Recently, we sent two mobile harbour cranes to the Chabahar port. In March, two more cranes will be sent. They are ready to be loaded to the ship near Venice. Two more will reach by June end. "There are plans to procure more rail-mounted gantry cranes/rail-mounted cranes, for which bidding is going on, and this infrastructure is presently sufficient for the operation of the port. As it picks up for products, cargos going to Afghanistan and beyond, we will add more infrastructure." India will host Maritime India Summit from March 2 to 4. The summit will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Ministers from Afghanistan, Armenia, Iran, Russia and Uzbekistan will participate. More than 1 lakh registrations have taken place for the summit. Bandyopadhyay said, "Chabahar has been a very ambitious project of the country. We have sent consignments of wheat and pesticides as required by Afghanistan." At present, there are eight cranes at the port and four lifters. Chabahar is key to India's westwards connectivity -- providing connectivity to Afghanistan and beyond. Chabahar is also key to the International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and reduces the distance between the location by 40 per cent and cost by 30 per cent.

India to send four more cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June

The dream run could soon be over for Tech Giants in India. New Delhi has unveiled a new set of guidelines to rein in online platforms. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the big takeaways.

Gravitas: India's new social Media guidelines

Sri Lanka is facing global scrutiny over Human Rights violations & war crimes. Colombo is looking for support at UNHRC, New Delhi faces the dilemma of picking a side. Should India back Sri Lanka? Watch this report by WION's Palki Sharma before drawing any conclusion.

Gravitas: Sri Lanka faces scrutiny at UNHRC

Practice what you preach', this is India's message to Turkey. Ankara at the behest of Islamabad raised the Kashmir issue once again at UNHRC. But this time India pulled no punches & responded without mincing any words. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: India puts Turkey in its place on Kashmir

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar. &nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ethiopian envoy Tizita Mulugeta to India, said, "Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to Indian side" regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment".&nbsp;

The Tigray crisis has been making global headlines after worsening the situation in that part of Ethiopia. The development comes after clashes broken between the Ethiopian government forces and the local Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Tigray is a region in the northern part of Ethiopia and shares borders with Eritrea, Sudan.&nbsp;

The envoy also spoke on India's outreach amid the Covid pandemic. She said, "Always whenever there have been any kinds of difficulties, India has been there to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia." Adding, "We know India is the hub of pharma" and it has the "capacity to support many countries and we have seen them supporting neighbouring and African countries."&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India-Ethiopia ties?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: First of all, when we see the relationship between these two countries, we have to see that the relationship has been there for a long period of time and is historical. It started in the first century BC, and Indians went to Ethiopia to sell different kinds of items including silk, spices and they used to get ivory and gold from Ethiopia. So, this relationship is historic, and the trade relationship has grown very well, and we started our diplomatic ties in 1948, just immediately after India got its independence. So, from then onwards we have got a very profound kind of relationship, especially one that focuses on capacity building. When we have seen a capacity building with a lot of Indian professors and teachers going to Ethiopia to teach in Ethiopian high schools and universities. This means Indians were playing a very good role in producing generation in Ethiopia, which is the base for development and growth also. This relationship has grown into trade and investment relation, especially for last 15 years number of Indian investors have been growing in Ethiopia. Trade relations, I can say we have good trade ties, so generally social, political, diplomatic, we have profound relation. We are working to develop this relationship into strategic relationship.&nbsp;

WION: Key outcome of Ethiopian FM's India visit?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: Basically, we have been waiting for this visit for a long time, it means something for us. During the visit, bilateral issues were discussed especially the Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to the Indian side, the Indian government regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray, and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment. Ethiopian government explained to its Indian counterpart, how much access is open to providing humanitarian assistance to the needy over there and how much the Ethiopian govt is ready to respect the human rights, of the Tigrayan people, and also the refugees, especially Eritrean refugees in the Tigrayan region. Beyond that, it was an opportunity to explain regarding border conflict between Ethiopia and Sudan. Ethiopian government explained that the position is to amicably solve this problem based on negotiation. We managed to sign different agreements, especially, visa wavier agreements for diplomats and also agreements on education between two different institutions. It will help us to go further to the next level and develop a relationship into a strategic relationship.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in Africa?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: When we talk about Indian Involvement in Africa, it is not recent history. It has been like a long period of time. We could find a lot of Indian Diaspora in any part of the Africa that has been there for a long period of time, in addition to that, Indians have been playing a very big role in the national movement of independence. So, I can say, relationship between India and Africa is very profound, and India and Africa have worked a lot for the development of capacity in African countries, and the trade and investment relationship has also grown very well. So, they share a lot of commonalities especially in UN reforms and the International agenda. So far, Indians playing a very good role in entering Africa and making their presence better than the previous ones. India and Africa share lot of development trajectories. There is a lot, Africa can learn and a lot Africa can get from India especially in terms of adaptable technologies, because we really share many things, for instance, both Indian and African societies based on agriculture. We can learn how India is trying to get to a high level in terms of the economy and many levels. We can learn from Indian democracy, governance. I can say so far role of India is really, it means a lot. We can refer to three India-Africa summits, that has been there for last 15 years. All these summits have seen different development issues as agenda. Current PM Modi has given priority to presence of India in Africa, taking this into consideration, I can say India could be one of the great partners of Africa and for African development.&nbsp;

WION: How has been covid cooperation between India and Ethiopia?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: Always whenever there has been any kind of difficulties India has been there, to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia. So, when covid pandemic came last year, India was one of the first country that sent different kinds of medical equipment to Ethiopia. We are really grateful to that. Our PM has spoken to PM Modi, they have talked a lot on how to cooperate in terms of covid and other related issues. We know India is the hub of pharma and it has capacity to support many countries and we have seen they are supporting neighboring and African countries. We are studying on how to get support from India and my government will consider on how to benefit from this relation.&nbsp;

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar.

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ethiopian envoy Tizita Mulugeta to India, said, "Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to Indian side" regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment". The Tigray crisis has been making global headlines after worsening the situation in that part of Ethiopia. The development comes after clashes broken between the Ethiopian government forces and the local Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Tigray is a region in the northern part of Ethiopia and shares borders with Eritrea, Sudan. The envoy also spoke on India's outreach amid the Covid pandemic. She said, "Always whenever there have been any kinds of difficulties, India has been there to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia." Adding, "We know India is the hub of pharma" and it has the "capacity to support many countries and we have seen them supporting neighbouring and African countries." WION: How do you see India-Ethiopia ties? Tizita Mulugeta: First of all, when we see the relationship between these two countries, we have to see that the relationship has been there for a long period of time and is historical. It started in the first century BC, and Indians went to Ethiopia to sell different kinds of items including silk, spices and they used to get ivory and gold from Ethiopia. So, this relationship is historic, and the trade relationship has grown very well, and we started our diplomatic ties in 1948, just immediately after India got its independence. So, from then onwards we have got a very profound kind of relationship, especially one that focuses on capacity building. When we have seen a capacity building with a lot of Indian professors and teachers going to Ethiopia to teach in Ethiopian high schools and universities. This means Indians were playing a very good role in producing generation in Ethiopia, which is the base for development and growth also. This relationship has grown into trade and investment relation, especially for last 15 years number of Indian investors have been growing in Ethiopia. Trade relations, I can say we have good trade ties, so generally social, political, diplomatic, we have profound relation. We are working to develop this relationship into strategic relationship. WION: Key outcome of Ethiopian FM's India visit? Tizita Mulugeta: Basically, we have been waiting for this visit for a long time, it means something for us. During the visit, bilateral issues were discussed especially the Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to the Indian side, the Indian government regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray, and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment. Ethiopian government explained to its Indian counterpart, how much access is open to providing humanitarian assistance to the needy over there and how much the Ethiopian govt is ready to respect the human rights, of the Tigrayan people, and also the refugees, especially Eritrean refugees in the Tigrayan region. Beyond that, it was an opportunity to explain regarding border conflict between Ethiopia and Sudan. Ethiopian government explained that the position is to amicably solve this problem based on negotiation. We managed to sign different agreements, especially, visa wavier agreements for diplomats and also agreements on education between two different institutions. It will help us to go further to the next level and develop a relationship into a strategic relationship. WION: How do you see India's role in Africa? Tizita Mulugeta: When we talk about Indian Involvement in Africa, it is not recent history. It has been like a long period of time. We could find a lot of Indian Diaspora in any part of the Africa that has been there for a long period of time, in addition to that, Indians have been playing a very big role in the national movement of independence. So, I can say, relationship between India and Africa is very profound, and India and Africa have worked a lot for the development of capacity in African countries, and the trade and investment relationship has also grown very well. So, they share a lot of commonalities especially in UN reforms and the International agenda. So far, Indians playing a very good role in entering Africa and making their presence better than the previous ones. India and Africa share lot of development trajectories. There is a lot, Africa can learn and a lot Africa can get from India especially in terms of adaptable technologies, because we really share many things, for instance, both Indian and African societies based on agriculture. We can learn how India is trying to get to a high level in terms of the economy and many levels. We can learn from Indian democracy, governance. I can say so far role of India is really, it means a lot. We can refer to three India-Africa summits, that has been there for last 15 years. All these summits have seen different development issues as agenda. Current PM Modi has given priority to presence of India in Africa, taking this into consideration, I can say India could be one of the great partners of Africa and for African development. WION: How has been covid cooperation between India and Ethiopia? Tizita Mulugeta: Always whenever there has been any kind of difficulties India has been there, to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia. So, when covid pandemic came last year, India was one of the first country that sent different kinds of medical equipment to Ethiopia. We are really grateful to that. Our PM has spoken to PM Modi, they have talked a lot on how to cooperate in terms of covid and other related issues. We know India is the hub of pharma and it has capacity to support many countries and we have seen they are supporting neighboring and African countries. We are studying on how to get support from India and my government will consider on how to benefit from this relation.

Ethiopia briefs India about Tigray, says humanitarian aid being delivered

National Statistical Office of India has released the GDP growth estimates for Quarter 3 in the Financial year. The GDP growth is now projected at 0.4%.

News Alert: India's GDP number for financial year 2021 year out

The Indian Govt plans to vaccinate more than 270 million people in the 2nd phase of the inoculation drive. The nation of more than 1.3 billion is undertaking what may be the world’s largest vaccination push.

India: Govt plans to vaccinate 270 mn people in phase 2

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation.&nbsp;

The proposal for waiver was given by India and South Africa jointly last year. It, however, faces stiff opposition from western countries, including the EU.

The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines."

Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale."

The development comes ahead of the European Council meeting on Thursday and the crucial decision to be made by all Member States at the WTO General Council on March 1-2.

The European Parliament is made up of 705 members elected in the 27 member states of the enlarged European Union. The MEPs, who have backed the declaration, include Kathleen Van Brempt, Anna Cavazzini, Benoît Lutgen, Philippe Lamberts, and Marie Arena etc.

Calling for "constructive dialogue" with partner countries, the declaration highlighted that the action will "enable local production capacities (for covid vaccine) and increase their access to COVID-19 treatments."

It reminded COVID-19 medical products are "global public goods" and the statements by the European Commission, which is the executive branch of the European Union have not "translated into actionable realities."

The WTO met on Tuesday to discuss the proposal and with consensus yet to be achieved.

The LDC group (least developed countries) -- consisting of 35 members -- have come out in support of the proposal.

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation.

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation. The proposal for waiver was given by India and South Africa jointly last year. It, however, faces stiff opposition from western countries, including the EU. The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines." Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale." The development comes ahead of the European Council meeting on Thursday and the crucial decision to be made by all Member States at the WTO General Council on March 1-2. The European Parliament is made up of 705 members elected in the 27 member states of the enlarged European Union. The MEPs, who have backed the declaration, include Kathleen Van Brempt, Anna Cavazzini, Benoît Lutgen, Philippe Lamberts, and Marie Arena etc. Calling for "constructive dialogue" with partner countries, the declaration highlighted that the action will "enable local production capacities (for covid vaccine) and increase their access to COVID-19 treatments." It reminded COVID-19 medical products are "global public goods" and the statements by the European Commission, which is the executive branch of the European Union have not "translated into actionable realities." The WTO met on Tuesday to discuss the proposal and with consensus yet to be achieved. The LDC group (least developed countries) -- consisting of 35 members -- have come out in support of the proposal.

More than 100 EU parliamentarians back India-South Africa proposal for Covid vaccine IPR waiver

India has announced sweeping guidelines for its social media in a move to stands up to big tech. WION brings you more.

WION Fineprint: India unveil tougher rules for social media

The dream run of tech giants in India could soon be over as the government has unveiled a new set of guidelines. Content will now be regulated. Dispute resolution will be swift and trouble-makers will not be protected. This is India's playbook to rein in big tech. It's a template that you will probably see more and more countries adopt.&nbsp;

The battles lines have been drawn after more than a decade of unchecked expansion. The walls are closing in on tech giants. The latest blow was dealt by India. New guidelines have been introduced. These tough ones will rein in the likes of Facebook and Twitter. Three months from now, the new digital regime will take effect.&nbsp;

it will make the Indian state, a stakeholder in content regulation. The full draft is yet to be released but a few provisions stand out.&nbsp;

First, the removal of objectionable content and complaints will have to be registered in 24 hours. Following which, there is a 15-day deadline for redressal but if the content is highly provocative or hurtful as it must be taken down in 24 hours.&nbsp;

These complaints will be compiled by a grievance officer, who must reside in India. All social media companies will have to produce a monthly compliance report. How many complaints were registered? In how many cases action was taken?&nbsp;

They can't protect the trouble-makers as well. If an Indian court or the government wants to trace content on social media, the companies will have to take names. Where did the objectionable content emerge? Which accounts amplified it? Information that they have always denied. Big tech does not have a fixed yardstick. In Europe and the US, they often submit to government scrutiny.&nbsp;

Elsewhere, they run riot, stealing private data and fuelling propaganda.&nbsp;

Ravi Shankar Prasad, law minister, India said, "Every social media platforms are welcome in India, but, with utmost respect, I would like to say that there shouldn't be double standards. If an attack is there on Capitol Hill in Congress, then social media supports the police action but if there's an aggressive attack on the Red Fort, the symbol of India's freedom where our Prime Minister hoists the National Flag, you have double standards. this is plainly unacceptable."&nbsp;

There are new rules for streaming services as well. They will be overseen by a self-regulatory body headed by a retired supreme court or high court judge.&nbsp;

The content will no longer be one size fits all. There will be five categories based on age, such as universal, aged 7+, 13+, 16+ and adult. There will be an exhaustive age verification process for adult content. &nbsp;

These guidelines are in a way unprecedented in most parts of the world. Social media is internet's wilderness, a land beyond laws. For years, tech giants have fought against checks but now the movement has gone global. Compliance is the only option. Facebook's reaction to the new guidelines says it all. "We have always been clear as a company that we welcome regulations that set guidelines for addressing today’s toughest challenges on the internet," it said.&nbsp;

India's new guidelines could become a global playbook. One thing's for sure, tech giants are no more the darlings of the internet but the question is can they avoid becoming its scourge?&nbsp;

The dream run of tech giants in India could soon be over as the government has unveiled a new set of guidelines. Content will now be regulated. Dispute resolution will be swift and trouble-makers will not be protected.

The dream run of tech giants in India could soon be over as the government has unveiled a new set of guidelines. Content will now be regulated. Dispute resolution will be swift and trouble-makers will not be protected. This is India's playbook to rein in big tech. It's a template that you will probably see more and more countries adopt. The battles lines have been drawn after more than a decade of unchecked expansion. The walls are closing in on tech giants. The latest blow was dealt by India. New guidelines have been introduced. These tough ones will rein in the likes of Facebook and Twitter. Three months from now, the new digital regime will take effect. it will make the Indian state, a stakeholder in content regulation. The full draft is yet to be released but a few provisions stand out. First, the removal of objectionable content and complaints will have to be registered in 24 hours. Following which, there is a 15-day deadline for redressal but if the content is highly provocative or hurtful as it must be taken down in 24 hours. These complaints will be compiled by a grievance officer, who must reside in India. All social media companies will have to produce a monthly compliance report. How many complaints were registered? In how many cases action was taken? They can't protect the trouble-makers as well. If an Indian court or the government wants to trace content on social media, the companies will have to take names. Where did the objectionable content emerge? Which accounts amplified it? Information that they have always denied. Big tech does not have a fixed yardstick. In Europe and the US, they often submit to government scrutiny. Elsewhere, they run riot, stealing private data and fuelling propaganda. Ravi Shankar Prasad, law minister, India said, "Every social media platforms are welcome in India, but, with utmost respect, I would like to say that there shouldn't be double standards. If an attack is there on Capitol Hill in Congress, then social media supports the police action but if there's an aggressive attack on the Red Fort, the symbol of India's freedom where our Prime Minister hoists the National Flag, you have double standards. this is plainly unacceptable." There are new rules for streaming services as well. They will be overseen by a self-regulatory body headed by a retired supreme court or high court judge. The content will no longer be one size fits all. There will be five categories based on age, such as universal, aged 7+, 13+, 16+ and adult. There will be an exhaustive age verification process for adult content. These guidelines are in a way unprecedented in most parts of the world. Social media is internet's wilderness, a land beyond laws. For years, tech giants have fought against checks but now the movement has gone global. Compliance is the only option. Facebook's reaction to the new guidelines says it all. "We have always been clear as a company that we welcome regulations that set guidelines for addressing today’s toughest challenges on the internet," it said. India's new guidelines could become a global playbook. One thing's for sure, tech giants are no more the darlings of the internet but the question is can they avoid becoming its scourge?

India's new guidelines could become a global playbook 

The impact of global warming across the world is increasingly evident over these passing years. In India's Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar has witnessed extremes of cold and heat in a span of less than a month time. WION brings you a report.

WION Fineprint: Jammu & Kashmir feel the effects of extreme climate change

India and Pakistan have issued a joint statement to cease all firing along the Line of Control. This move is effective from midnight 24/25 February.

WION Dispatch: India-Pakistan decide to ceasefire along LoC

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020.&nbsp;

In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-10th-round-of-military-talks-last-for-nearly-16-hours-365248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian government promptly retaliated by banning hundreds of Chinese apps.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-relationship-with-china-is-one-of-strong-competition-365698">White House says relationship with China is one of 'strong competition'</a>

However, the bilateral trade between both nations in 2020 stood at $77.7 billion.&nbsp;

Even though this number is lower than the last year's $85.5 billion, but it still was enough for China to retain its numero uno position, according to the provisional data from the Indian commerce ministry.

Total imports from China into India stood at $58.7 billion, which exceeded the combined purchases from the US and UAE, its second and third-biggest trade partners.

"Imports from China are cheap and available quickly in sufficient amounts. Imports from several other sources are not as cost-effective, and as easily available, as they are from China," National University of Singapore economist Amitendu Palit was quoted as saying by BBC.

Meanwhile, militaries of both the countries completed the pullback of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.&nbsp;

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020. In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations.

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020. In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations. Watch | The Indian government promptly retaliated by banning hundreds of Chinese apps. Also read | White House says relationship with China is one of 'strong competition' However, the bilateral trade between both nations in 2020 stood at $77.7 billion. Even though this number is lower than the last year's $85.5 billion, but it still was enough for China to retain its numero uno position, according to the provisional data from the Indian commerce ministry. Total imports from China into India stood at $58.7 billion, which exceeded the combined purchases from the US and UAE, its second and third-biggest trade partners. "Imports from China are cheap and available quickly in sufficient amounts. Imports from several other sources are not as cost-effective, and as easily available, as they are from China," National University of Singapore economist Amitendu Palit was quoted as saying by BBC. Meanwhile, militaries of both the countries completed the pullback of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.

Despite strained ties, China returns as India's top trading partner

India was the fastest to administer 6 million shots. The second-fastest to complete 10 million vaccinations. But, less than 1% of India has been fully vaccinated so far. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why India must involve the private sector in its vaccination drive.

Gravitas: Is India going slow with Wuhan vaccine shots?

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