Suzuki Motor Corp forecast operating profit to fall by a quarter to 160 billion yen ($1.5 billion) in the year to March as sales, including in its key Indian market, shrink amid the coronavirus pandemic.

World Business Watch: Suzuki Expects annual profit to shrink by 25% as India sales slump

Indian General Bipin Rawat warns China that India will not accept shifting the LAC during 8th round of top military talks between India & China.

We will not accept any shift in LAC: Indian General Bipin Rawat

Activity in India’s dominant services industry, expanded for the first time in eight months in October as demand surged.

India's services activity grows in October after months of contraction

Army chief Gen MM Naravane on Wednesday reached Nepal for a three-day visit that is majorly aimed at improving New Delhi-Kathmandu ties that have hit a low in recent months over a number of issues.

Indian Army Chief General Naravane meets Nepalese counterpart

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that high wind speed has helped keep the situation in the city and nearby regions from deteriorating, though the city continues to choke.

New Delhi's air quality touches 'severe' levels

In a clear message to China, just ahead of talks to resolve border issue, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday that India is facing challenges on its borders and will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
 
"India is a peace-loving country and that peace can only be ensured through the ability to deter war," Singh said while speaking at a webinar celebrating the Diamond Jubilee to mark 60 years of the National Defence College in Delhi. 
 
The webinar theme was on `India`s National Security - The Decade Ahead` and it started with a keynote address by Rajnath Singh. 
 
The Minister said: "We believe that differences should not become disputes. We attach importance to the peaceful resolution of differences through dialogue. India is determined to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of unilateralism and aggression, no matter what the sacrifice." 
 
India and China are engaged in border dispute for the last seven months in Eastern Ladakh. Despite several rounds of talks between the two countries, the dispute remains unresolved. 
 
Talking about India`s relations with friendly counties he said: "We have enhanced the scope and quality of our relations with Saudi Arabia, UAE and Oman in the West and with Indonesia, Vietnam and South Korea in the East." 
 
He also mentioned that it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s special interest in reaching out to partner countries in West Asia, South East and East Asia. 
 
"India`s strategic partnership with the US is stronger than ever before," Singh said. 
 
Talking about India`s ally Russia, Singh said: "India also has a strong, traditional and deep-rooted relations with Russia. Our two countries have weathered many a challenge in the past through our close understanding and appreciation of each other`s concerns and interests." 
 
He said working with like minded countries, India has achieved substantial success to not only expose Pakistan`s regressive policies, but also make it is increasingly difficult to continue with its previous business as usual approach. 
 
"With the exception of Pakistan, given its agenda of fuelling terrorism, India has improved its relations with all neighbours. We have invested heavily to help and support our friends to forge a relationship of mutual-respect and mutual-interest," he added. 
 
From now on more officers from neighbouring counties will be trained at India`s prestigious strategic leadership institution the National Defence College (NDC) as New Delhi increases its engagement with neighbours to the counter growing influence of China. 
 
Five new friendly countries -- Tajikistan, Indonesia, Maldives, Uzbekistan and Philippines -- will now be able to send its officers to India for annual training in national and international security related fields.

In a clear message to China, just ahead of talks to resolve border issue, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday that India is facing challenges on its borders and will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a clear message to China, just ahead of talks to resolve border issue, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday that India is facing challenges on its borders and will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. "India is a peace-loving country and that peace can only be ensured through the ability to deter war," Singh said while speaking at a webinar celebrating the Diamond Jubilee to mark 60 years of the National Defence College in Delhi. The webinar theme was on `India`s National Security - The Decade Ahead` and it started with a keynote address by Rajnath Singh. The Minister said: "We believe that differences should not become disputes. We attach importance to the peaceful resolution of differences through dialogue. India is determined to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of unilateralism and aggression, no matter what the sacrifice." India and China are engaged in border dispute for the last seven months in Eastern Ladakh. Despite several rounds of talks between the two countries, the dispute remains unresolved. Talking about India`s relations with friendly counties he said: "We have enhanced the scope and quality of our relations with Saudi Arabia, UAE and Oman in the West and with Indonesia, Vietnam and South Korea in the East." He also mentioned that it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s special interest in reaching out to partner countries in West Asia, South East and East Asia. "India`s strategic partnership with the US is stronger than ever before," Singh said. Talking about India`s ally Russia, Singh said: "India also has a strong, traditional and deep-rooted relations with Russia. Our two countries have weathered many a challenge in the past through our close understanding and appreciation of each other`s concerns and interests." He said working with like minded countries, India has achieved substantial success to not only expose Pakistan`s regressive policies, but also make it is increasingly difficult to continue with its previous business as usual approach. "With the exception of Pakistan, given its agenda of fuelling terrorism, India has improved its relations with all neighbours. We have invested heavily to help and support our friends to forge a relationship of mutual-respect and mutual-interest," he added. From now on more officers from neighbouring counties will be trained at India`s prestigious strategic leadership institution the National Defence College (NDC) as New Delhi increases its engagement with neighbours to the counter growing influence of China. Five new friendly countries -- Tajikistan, Indonesia, Maldives, Uzbekistan and Philippines -- will now be able to send its officers to India for annual training in national and international security related fields.

India faces challenges on borders, will defend territorial integrity: Rajnath Singh

India's COVID-19 caseload went past 83 lakh, while the number of recoveries surged to 76.56 lakh, pushing the national recovery rate to over 92 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday.

With 46,253 fresh infections, the total number of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 83,13,876, while the death toll rose to 1,23,611 after 514 more fatalities were reported, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-less-than-550000-coronavirus-active-cases-recovery-rate-stands-near-92-340136">India: Less than 550,000 coronavirus active cases; recovery rate stands near 92%</a>

A total of 76,56,478 people have recuperated from the infection so far, pushing the national recovery rate to 92.09 per cent, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.49 per cent.

The number of active cases of COVID-19 remained below six lakh for the sixth consecutive day.

There are 5,33,787 active cases in the country as on date which comprise 6.42 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

The COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7,30 lakh&nbsp;on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28,70 lakh on October 11 and crossed 80 lakh on October 29.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 11,29,98,959 samples have been tested for COVID-19 in the country so far, with 12,09,609 samples being tested on Tuesday.

The 514 new fatalities include 120 from Maharashtra, 58 from Chhattisgarh, 56 from West Bengal, 48 from Delhi, 31 Tamil Nadu and 26 each from Karnataka and Kerala.

Total 1,23,611 deaths reported so far in the country include 44,248 from Maharashtra followed by 11,247 from Karnataka, 11,214 from Tamil Nadu, 7,089 from Uttar Pradesh, 7,013? from West Bengal, 6,734 from Andhra Pradesh, 6,652 from Delhi, 4,245 from Punjab and 3,731 from Gujarat. 
&nbsp;

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India's COVID-19 caseload went past 83 lakh, while the number of recoveries surged to 76.56 lakh, pushing the national recovery rate to over 92 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday.

India's COVID-19 caseload went past 83 lakh, while the number of recoveries surged to 76.56 lakh, pushing the national recovery rate to over 92 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday. With 46,253 fresh infections, the total number of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 83,13,876, while the death toll rose to 1,23,611 after 514 more fatalities were reported, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also read | India: Less than 550,000 coronavirus active cases; recovery rate stands near 92% A total of 76,56,478 people have recuperated from the infection so far, pushing the national recovery rate to 92.09 per cent, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.49 per cent. The number of active cases of COVID-19 remained below six lakh for the sixth consecutive day. There are 5,33,787 active cases in the country as on date which comprise 6.42 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7,30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28,70 lakh on October 11 and crossed 80 lakh on October 29. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 11,29,98,959 samples have been tested for COVID-19 in the country so far, with 12,09,609 samples being tested on Tuesday. The 514 new fatalities include 120 from Maharashtra, 58 from Chhattisgarh, 56 from West Bengal, 48 from Delhi, 31 Tamil Nadu and 26 each from Karnataka and Kerala. Total 1,23,611 deaths reported so far in the country include 44,248 from Maharashtra followed by 11,247 from Karnataka, 11,214 from Tamil Nadu, 7,089 from Uttar Pradesh, 7,013? from West Bengal, 6,734 from Andhra Pradesh, 6,652 from Delhi, 4,245 from Punjab and 3,731 from Gujarat. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India's COVID-19 tally races past 8.3 million, national recovery rate reaches 92.09%

India, the United States, Japan and Australia began their largest joint naval exercises in over a decade on Tuesday (November 03), seen as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region.

What will US poll results mean for India? | US Presidential Election 2020

32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region.&nbsp;

On the intervening night of 2nd and 3rd November 1988 around 200 to 300 armed mercenaries landed in the country's capital capturing key installations. The then President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had requested for help from New Delhi and the then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.&nbsp;

Indian Army's para brigade brought on IL 76 immediately brought things under control in the Indian ocean Island but it was the mid-ocean chase and rescue that was the most challenging part of the operation. The mercenaries, led by the leader&nbsp;Abdulla Luthufee&nbsp;fled on vessel MV Progress light along with hostages including a Maldivian govt minister.&nbsp; Indian navy ship--training ship Tir and Frigate Godavari were diverted to the country.The commanding officer of Godavari was the CTF-- Commander Task Force.&nbsp;

Other than them,&nbsp;Indian Navy ships Betwa, Rajput, Ranjit, Gomati, Trishul, Nilgiri, Kumbhir, Cheetah and fleet tanker Deepak were also sailed towards the Maldives. 24x7 maritime reconnaissance aircraft (MR) air-patrols commenced.

Soon after midnight of 5/6th November, MV Progress light was given a final warning but no heed was paid by the fleeing mercenaries. The 4 inch, 57 mm and 30 mm guns of Godavari and Betwa then raked the vessel, causing a massive fire. A Naval boarding party brought the hostages to INS Godavari and apprehended the mercenaries. MV Progress light sank on 7th November, 56 miles south west of Colombo.

New Delhi was closely monitoring the situation and at the war room at a message reached the Prime Minister that read: "ALL HOSTAGES RESCUED. MERCENARIES CAPTURED" bringing a sigh of relief to many in both the countries. On 8th November, recused hostages were handed over to President Gayoom in a formal ceremony.&nbsp;

The developments had a global impact, with TIME magazine cover of 3rd April 1989 featuring INS Godavari with a caption "Super India--The Next Military power". Leaders of the US and UK had also lauded New Delhi's role.

One of the impact of the development was close alignment on the security understanding between Indian and Maldives. India has been helping in capacity and capability development of the Maldivian armed forces and since then thousands of Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) personnel have been trained in India.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to know, the present Chief of Defence Force of MNDF, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, is a graduate of DSSC, Wellington (Tamil Nadu), while his predecessors were graduates of NDC, New Delhi.&nbsp;

The invasion by mercenaries on 3 November 1988 also prompted the Maldives to enhance their maritime surveillance capabilities. For this Indian Government provided MNDF with ships, vehicles, helicopters, coastal radars, arms, ammunition and earlier this year, a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft.

To remember the event in the country's history, every 3 November MNDF personnel mark Nasruge Dhuvas or ‘Victory Day’ and remember their fallen comrades at a special memorial where an RPG--rocket-propelled grenade was fired by the mercenaries breaching the MNDF HQ in Bandaara Koshi, Male in 1988.

32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region.

32 years ago, this week, India launched an Operation Cactus to help the Maldives as the country faced its biggest challenge - a coup launched by mercenaries. The operation forever etched in the India Maldives history of close cooperation shows how Indian Navy played a significant role, especially when it comes to security and stability of the Indian Ocean region. On the intervening night of 2nd and 3rd November 1988 around 200 to 300 armed mercenaries landed in the country's capital capturing key installations. The then President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had requested for help from New Delhi and the then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Indian Army's para brigade brought on IL 76 immediately brought things under control in the Indian ocean Island but it was the mid-ocean chase and rescue that was the most challenging part of the operation. The mercenaries, led by the leader Abdulla Luthufee fled on vessel MV Progress light along with hostages including a Maldivian govt minister. Indian navy ship--training ship Tir and Frigate Godavari were diverted to the country.The commanding officer of Godavari was the CTF-- Commander Task Force. Other than them, Indian Navy ships Betwa, Rajput, Ranjit, Gomati, Trishul, Nilgiri, Kumbhir, Cheetah and fleet tanker Deepak were also sailed towards the Maldives. 24x7 maritime reconnaissance aircraft (MR) air-patrols commenced. Soon after midnight of 5/6th November, MV Progress light was given a final warning but no heed was paid by the fleeing mercenaries. The 4 inch, 57 mm and 30 mm guns of Godavari and Betwa then raked the vessel, causing a massive fire. A Naval boarding party brought the hostages to INS Godavari and apprehended the mercenaries. MV Progress light sank on 7th November, 56 miles south west of Colombo. New Delhi was closely monitoring the situation and at the war room at a message reached the Prime Minister that read: "ALL HOSTAGES RESCUED. MERCENARIES CAPTURED" bringing a sigh of relief to many in both the countries. On 8th November, recused hostages were handed over to President Gayoom in a formal ceremony. The developments had a global impact, with TIME magazine cover of 3rd April 1989 featuring INS Godavari with a caption "Super India--The Next Military power". Leaders of the US and UK had also lauded New Delhi's role. One of the impact of the development was close alignment on the security understanding between Indian and Maldives. India has been helping in capacity and capability development of the Maldivian armed forces and since then thousands of Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) personnel have been trained in India. It will be interesting to know, the present Chief of Defence Force of MNDF, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, is a graduate of DSSC, Wellington (Tamil Nadu), while his predecessors were graduates of NDC, New Delhi. The invasion by mercenaries on 3 November 1988 also prompted the Maldives to enhance their maritime surveillance capabilities. For this Indian Government provided MNDF with ships, vehicles, helicopters, coastal radars, arms, ammunition and earlier this year, a Dornier maritime surveillance aircraft. To remember the event in the country's history, every 3 November MNDF personnel mark Nasruge Dhuvas or ‘Victory Day’ and remember their fallen comrades at a special memorial where an RPG--rocket-propelled grenade was fired by the mercenaries breaching the MNDF HQ in Bandaara Koshi, Male in 1988.

Operation Cactus: How India helped the Maldives in November, 1988

India has a sixth of the world's population and a sixth of the reported cases. However, it accounts for only 10% of the world's deaths from the virus, and its case fatality rate or CFR.

Coronavirus: India's fatality rate remains the lowest in the world

A recent democracy report by the Swedish V-Dem Institute -- which deplores and regrets the decline in democracy globally -- has primarily warned that India “is on the verge of losing its status as a democracy". One of the factors reponsible for this decline -- and not collapse, the report mentions, is severe shrinking of civil society."

Some intellectual trespassing between political philosophy and the social sciences have, to this end, helped entrepreneur and author Atul Khanna decipher the singlemost reason behind this -- the old form bureaucracy, which stands to break the backbone of Indian polity.

In an exclusive conversation with wionews.com, Atul Khanna spoke about how he fostered the idea of a new India in his book 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha | 600 million bright and young; free and trapped', and his passion for rebuilding the country.

"We are being governed with unsharpened, old tools. The direction of change in the 21st century is uniquely programmed in a way that we should be champions, and not victims. These tools are making the 600 million odd people hungry, under-performing, and victims. We are giving premiums to 60-year-old people who are more interested in getting their pensions and playing safe. We have to get the rid of the 'ambassador car' (read: an old-fashioned model of car). India is a leadership-obsessed country, and we have to realise that we are just changing the driver of the car from time to time but the car will keep functioning the way it has always," Khanna told wionews.com.

The author of the book further said, "My book is about all this. It is about the governance of the country, and not about the political system. My book also has solutions in its later half. It gives structural solutions to India's problems.

"'Between Me and You' is in three parts -- 'what needs to change' makes the first part. The second is about assuming the change howsoever dramatic and revolutionary it may seem. 'What this changes would mean' makes for the third part."

The title 'Between Me and You' sounds somewhat a fictional account, but Khanna begs to differ.

He told wionews.com: "Rather than writing a boring civic lesson on how a system should function, I wanted to draw a larger audience. So the style of the book became its title."

So what are the tools that India needs to get rid of or adopt in order to pave its way back to development?

Khanna said, "First and foremost... We have to have a transferable vote. We also need a mixed model of voting where the elected leader comes via a transferable vote -- so that there are no political cartels. And the leader is elected by the people directly.

"In India, parties, unlike in other nations, are not governed by the Constitution. So nobody comes to know who get the ticket and why."

Notably, with the Single Transferable Vote, the strength of the parties matches the strength of their support in the country, and representatives have a strong local link.

Under the system, areas elect a small team of representatives, such as four or five. These representatives reflect the diversity of opinions in the area.

On election day, voters number a list of candidates. Their favourite as number one, their second favourite number two, and so on. Voters can put numbers next to as many or as few candidates as they like. Parties will often stand more than one candidate in each area.

The numbers tell the people counting to move your vote if your favourite candidate has enough votes already or stands no chance of winning.

To get elected, a candidate needs a set amount of votes, known as the quota. The people counting the votes work out the quota based on the number of vacancies and the number of votes cast.

Each voter has one vote. Once the counting has finished, any candidate who has more number ones than the quota is elected. But, rather than ignore extra votes a candidate received after the amount they need to win, these votes move to each voter’s second favourite candidate.

If no one reaches the quota, then the people counting the vote remove the least popular candidate. People who voted for them have their votes moved to their second favourite candidate. This process continues until every vacancy is filled.

With the implementation of such system in India, the cartelisation of district votes, Khanna said, would go away. This would also kill dynasty politics, he added.

Khanna, however, said he is not against the son or the daughter succeeding the parent in politics. But, he said, "it should not happen in a system which is loaded in their favour."

In his book, Atul Khanna has also mentioned about the vice of rote learning. He told wionews.com: "You cannot decide if or not a person is eligible for a profession based on a two-hour long exam. Their should be an aptitude test as well. These exams thrive on scarcity -- of skills and talent.

"People often say to me I am a dreamer. Because these things sound so dreamy and far-fetched. But these ought to be done anyway."

They do. In all honesty. But the author has an interesting take on this.

Khanna said, "Would you rather have seed that take a long time to grow into a tree? Or a soil without any seeds?

"There is a complete lack of societal ideas in the society, particularly in India. And I am striving to bring them on through my book. I don't know if I'll be able to see it in my lifetime. But I'll strive so that somebody sees in their lifetime."

BUREAUCRACY -- THE BIGGEST HURDLE

Khanna further summarised his entire book in one simple sentence -- "it's the bureaucracy that is standing in the way of people getting jobs, not any government."

"Look at the larger picture, the government has to fight elections every five years. What do these bureaucrats do? Bureaucracy is blocking the growth of the nation," he added.

The author then went ahead to explain in detail the 'better' half of the title of his book 'Flight to Societal Moksha'. He said, "Personal 'moksha' (read: salvation) has made people too selfish. The point I have stressed in my book is what we need to do to achieve 'societal moksha'; what we need to do to make the society better.

"Mediocrity finishes you. The larger vision of the society has changed to security. People want life-long incomes, life-long security. But nobody thinks about entrepreneurship. Social equity and rewards for entrepreneurship are totally missing from India."

"We have to work doubly, triply hard now so that we survive as a democracy. Being called a developing nation is a self-certificate. We have to save ourselves from being the laughing stock. We have to work, and entrepreneurship, and better opportunities to create it, is the only way," Atul Khanna added.

So what is so different about his book 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha'?

"In my book, not only have I written about the problems, but also solutions. I have clearly said that the politicians are not bad; it's the political system that makes them that is the culprit. I have also written about the structural changes that need to be made for the 'societal moksha'. My books mentions what needs to be done; why and how. And also, who needs to do it," the author said.

Printed in black and white pages, the 300-page 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha' was published in 2018 by Bloomsbury Publishing. It serves as a detailed analytical account of the Constitution. Author Atul Khanna also provides a set of suggestions to improve and upgrade the Constitution.

'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha | 600 million bright and young; free and trapped' is available on amazon.in.

A recent democracy report by the Swedish V-Dem Institute -- which deplores and regrets the decline in democracy globally -- has primarily warned that India “is on the verge of losing its status as a democracy".

A recent democracy report by the Swedish V-Dem Institute -- which deplores and regrets the decline in democracy globally -- has primarily warned that India “is on the verge of losing its status as a democracy". One of the factors reponsible for this decline -- and not collapse, the report mentions, is severe shrinking of civil society." Some intellectual trespassing between political philosophy and the social sciences have, to this end, helped entrepreneur and author Atul Khanna decipher the singlemost reason behind this -- the old form bureaucracy, which stands to break the backbone of Indian polity. In an exclusive conversation with wionews.com, Atul Khanna spoke about how he fostered the idea of a new India in his book 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha | 600 million bright and young; free and trapped', and his passion for rebuilding the country. "We are being governed with unsharpened, old tools. The direction of change in the 21st century is uniquely programmed in a way that we should be champions, and not victims. These tools are making the 600 million odd people hungry, under-performing, and victims. We are giving premiums to 60-year-old people who are more interested in getting their pensions and playing safe. We have to get the rid of the 'ambassador car' (read: an old-fashioned model of car). India is a leadership-obsessed country, and we have to realise that we are just changing the driver of the car from time to time but the car will keep functioning the way it has always," Khanna told wionews.com. The author of the book further said, "My book is about all this. It is about the governance of the country, and not about the political system. My book also has solutions in its later half. It gives structural solutions to India's problems. "'Between Me and You' is in three parts -- 'what needs to change' makes the first part. The second is about assuming the change howsoever dramatic and revolutionary it may seem. 'What this changes would mean' makes for the third part." The title 'Between Me and You' sounds somewhat a fictional account, but Khanna begs to differ. He told wionews.com: "Rather than writing a boring civic lesson on how a system should function, I wanted to draw a larger audience. So the style of the book became its title." So what are the tools that India needs to get rid of or adopt in order to pave its way back to development? Khanna said, "First and foremost... We have to have a transferable vote. We also need a mixed model of voting where the elected leader comes via a transferable vote -- so that there are no political cartels. And the leader is elected by the people directly. "In India, parties, unlike in other nations, are not governed by the Constitution. So nobody comes to know who get the ticket and why." Notably, with the Single Transferable Vote, the strength of the parties matches the strength of their support in the country, and representatives have a strong local link. Under the system, areas elect a small team of representatives, such as four or five. These representatives reflect the diversity of opinions in the area. On election day, voters number a list of candidates. Their favourite as number one, their second favourite number two, and so on. Voters can put numbers next to as many or as few candidates as they like. Parties will often stand more than one candidate in each area. The numbers tell the people counting to move your vote if your favourite candidate has enough votes already or stands no chance of winning. To get elected, a candidate needs a set amount of votes, known as the quota. The people counting the votes work out the quota based on the number of vacancies and the number of votes cast. Each voter has one vote. Once the counting has finished, any candidate who has more number ones than the quota is elected. But, rather than ignore extra votes a candidate received after the amount they need to win, these votes move to each voter’s second favourite candidate. If no one reaches the quota, then the people counting the vote remove the least popular candidate. People who voted for them have their votes moved to their second favourite candidate. This process continues until every vacancy is filled. With the implementation of such system in India, the cartelisation of district votes, Khanna said, would go away. This would also kill dynasty politics, he added. Khanna, however, said he is not against the son or the daughter succeeding the parent in politics. But, he said, "it should not happen in a system which is loaded in their favour." In his book, Atul Khanna has also mentioned about the vice of rote learning. He told wionews.com: "You cannot decide if or not a person is eligible for a profession based on a two-hour long exam. Their should be an aptitude test as well. These exams thrive on scarcity -- of skills and talent. "People often say to me I am a dreamer. Because these things sound so dreamy and far-fetched. But these ought to be done anyway." They do. In all honesty. But the author has an interesting take on this. Khanna said, "Would you rather have seed that take a long time to grow into a tree? Or a soil without any seeds? "There is a complete lack of societal ideas in the society, particularly in India. And I am striving to bring them on through my book. I don't know if I'll be able to see it in my lifetime. But I'll strive so that somebody sees in their lifetime." BUREAUCRACY -- THE BIGGEST HURDLE Khanna further summarised his entire book in one simple sentence -- "it's the bureaucracy that is standing in the way of people getting jobs, not any government." "Look at the larger picture, the government has to fight elections every five years. What do these bureaucrats do? Bureaucracy is blocking the growth of the nation," he added. The author then went ahead to explain in detail the 'better' half of the title of his book 'Flight to Societal Moksha'. He said, "Personal 'moksha' (read: salvation) has made people too selfish. The point I have stressed in my book is what we need to do to achieve 'societal moksha'; what we need to do to make the society better. "Mediocrity finishes you. The larger vision of the society has changed to security. People want life-long incomes, life-long security. But nobody thinks about entrepreneurship. Social equity and rewards for entrepreneurship are totally missing from India." "We have to work doubly, triply hard now so that we survive as a democracy. Being called a developing nation is a self-certificate. We have to save ourselves from being the laughing stock. We have to work, and entrepreneurship, and better opportunities to create it, is the only way," Atul Khanna added. So what is so different about his book 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha'? "In my book, not only have I written about the problems, but also solutions. I have clearly said that the politicians are not bad; it's the political system that makes them that is the culprit. I have also written about the structural changes that need to be made for the 'societal moksha'. My books mentions what needs to be done; why and how. And also, who needs to do it," the author said. Printed in black and white pages, the 300-page 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha' was published in 2018 by Bloomsbury Publishing. It serves as a detailed analytical account of the Constitution. Author Atul Khanna also provides a set of suggestions to improve and upgrade the Constitution. 'Between You and Me: Flight to Societal Moksha | 600 million bright and young; free and trapped' is available on amazon.in.

'Between You and Me' author Atul Khanna speaks about bureaucracy in India, 'societal moksha'

India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-38310-new-covid-19-cases-total-tally-surges-to-826-million-340019">India reports 38,310 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.26 million</a>

As many as 7,603,121 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, taking the recovery rate to about 92 per cent, the ministry said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India continues to see a declining trend as daily coronavirus cases reduced to less than 40,000 on Tuesday, bringing the total tally to 8.2 million.&nbsp;

The death toll stands at 123,097 with 490 new Covid-19 fatalities in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

India is the second-worst coronavirus-hit country in terms of total cases and third-worst in terms of the overall death toll.

After recording a peak of about 90,000-95000 cases in September, for the past few weeks, India is witnessing a consistent declining trend of Covid-19 daily cases, but experts fear with the arrival of winters and festival season could lead to a surge in the cases.&nbsp;

The US continues to be the worst-hit Covid-19 country as more than 231,000 people have lost their lives due to the virus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday. The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries.

India's active coronavirus cases have fallen under 550,000 now and are now only 6.55 per cent of the total infections, the health ministry said on Tuesday. The health ministry said the drop in active cases is supplemented by an exponential increase in recoveries. Also read | India reports 38,310 new COVID-19 cases; total tally surges to 8.26 million As many as 7,603,121 people have recuperated from the deadly virus, taking the recovery rate to about 92 per cent, the ministry said. Meanwhile, India continues to see a declining trend as daily coronavirus cases reduced to less than 40,000 on Tuesday, bringing the total tally to 8.2 million. The death toll stands at 123,097 with 490 new Covid-19 fatalities in the last 24 hours. India is the second-worst coronavirus-hit country in terms of total cases and third-worst in terms of the overall death toll. After recording a peak of about 90,000-95000 cases in September, for the past few weeks, India is witnessing a consistent declining trend of Covid-19 daily cases, but experts fear with the arrival of winters and festival season could lead to a surge in the cases. The US continues to be the worst-hit Covid-19 country as more than 231,000 people have lost their lives due to the virus.

India: Less than 550,000 coronavirus active cases; recovery rate stands near 92%

India confirmed 48,648 new novel coronavirus cases on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 8,088,851, while the active caseload declined below 600,000.&nbsp;

As per the latest updates by the health ministry, 563 new deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours, causing the death toll climb to 121,090.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-vaccine-production-delivery-capacity-to-help-all-humanity-in-fighting-covid-19-mea-338838">India's vaccine production, delivery capacity to help all humanity in fighting COVID-19: MEA</a>

On Monday, India's Covid-19 recovery rate also surpassed 91 per cent as a total of 73,73,375 people have recuperated from the deadly virus so far.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxfords-covid-19-vaccine-will-be-ready-by-december-serum-institute-ceo-adar-poonawalla-338684">Oxford's COVID-19 vaccine will be ready by December: Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla</a>

India has the second-highest coronavirus caseload, but in recent weeks, the daily coronavirus figures are on a decline.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the coronavirus situation in the US once again has started to escalate as the country recorded more than 90,000 cases in the last 24 hours, highest-ever since the pandemic began, according to a tally by John Hopkins University.&nbsp;

The US has about 9 million cases, the highest globally and is followed by India and Brazil.&nbsp;

The country has also seen the most number of Covid-19 deaths, 228,625 and Brazil and India are next on the list with 159,000 and 121,090 deaths respectively.&nbsp;

A special report by United Nations biodiversity panel has said future pandemics will happen more often and far deadlier than Covid-19 if there is not a fundamental shift on how humans treat nature.&nbsp;

India confirmed 48,648 new novel coronavirus cases on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 8,088,851, while the active caseload declined below 600,000. As per the latest updates by the health ministry, 563 new deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours, causing the death toll climb to 121,090.

India confirmed 48,648 new novel coronavirus cases on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 8,088,851, while the active caseload declined below 600,000. As per the latest updates by the health ministry, 563 new deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours, causing the death toll climb to 121,090. Also read | India's vaccine production, delivery capacity to help all humanity in fighting COVID-19: MEA On Monday, India's Covid-19 recovery rate also surpassed 91 per cent as a total of 73,73,375 people have recuperated from the deadly virus so far. Also read | Oxford's COVID-19 vaccine will be ready by December: Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla India has the second-highest coronavirus caseload, but in recent weeks, the daily coronavirus figures are on a decline. Meanwhile, the coronavirus situation in the US once again has started to escalate as the country recorded more than 90,000 cases in the last 24 hours, highest-ever since the pandemic began, according to a tally by John Hopkins University. The US has about 9 million cases, the highest globally and is followed by India and Brazil. The country has also seen the most number of Covid-19 deaths, 228,625 and Brazil and India are next on the list with 159,000 and 121,090 deaths respectively. A special report by United Nations biodiversity panel has said future pandemics will happen more often and far deadlier than Covid-19 if there is not a fundamental shift on how humans treat nature.

Coronavirus: India records over 48,000 cases; death toll climbs to 121,090

2 major confessions have been made in Pakistan's parliament. 1 - Pakistan orchestrated the 2019 Pulwama attack 2 - Pakistan released Wg. Cdr. Abhinandan under Indian pressure WION's Palki Sharma deconstructs the confessions & their impact on Imran Khan's political future.

Gravitas: Pakistan admits to Pulwama attack

India has extended unprecedented support to Emmanuel Macron in his war on terrorism. What explains the support? Is it public opinion or strategic interest? Why are Islamic leaders still provoking? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: India supports Emmanuel Macron

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence. Keshubhai Patel passed away a few days ago. The PM gave a floral tribute to the departed leader and spent some time with Patel's kin and consoled the family.

"Modiji recalled his long association with Keshubhai and asked us about his last moments, a family member told reporters after the PM left Patel's residence.

Modi had on Thursday paid rich tributes to Patel, saying he had mentored many BJP workers, including him.

Modi had remembered Patel through a series and tweets and shared some old photographs with the former Gujarat CM.

"Our beloved and respected Keshubhai has passed away. I am deeply pained and saddened. He was an outstanding leader who cared for every section of society. 
"His life was devoted towards the progress of Gujarat and the empowerment of every Gujarati," Modi tweeted on Thursday.

After meeting Patel's kin in Gandhinagar, the Prime Minister visited the grieving kin of Gujarati cinema superstar Naresh Kanodia and his music composer-brother Mahesh Kanodia, both of whom died recently, at their residence in the state capital.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stood-with-france-four-times-in-last-two-days-339024">India stood with France four times in last two days</a>

Naresh Kanodia (77) died on October 27 at a hospital while undergoing treatment for coronavirus, just two days after his elder brother Mahesh (83) died due to age-related ailments.

Both brothers were associated with the BJP. While Naresh Kanodia was a former MLA, Mahesh Kanodia had served as a BJP MP.

Modi paid floral tributes to the famous duo and spent some time with their family members, including Naresh Kanodias son Hitu Kanodia, a sitting BJP MLA.

"Modiji fondly remembered my father and uncle. He told us that both the brothers loved each other immensely and now they have became immortal."

"He also regretted not coming earlier to meet them," Hitu Kanodia told reporters.

This is Modi's first visit to his home state after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

Later in the day, PM Modi inaugurated 'Ekta Mall' a special store constructed near the Statue of Unity. In Ekta Mall, tourists can buy handloom and handicraft products from different states under one roof. PM Modi spent considerable amount of time at stall selling traditional items from Jammu and Kashmir and the north-east region.

The mall, developed on the theme of Unity in Handicraft &amp; Handloom Diversity, is spread across 35,000 square feet near the 182-metre tall Statue of Unity at Kevadiya in Gujarat's Narmada district. The imposing monument, dedicated to Sardar Patel, has emerged as a popular tourist site in Gujarat. Modi, accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, later visited different emporia in the Mall.

The Mall, a two-storey air-conditioned store, houses 20 different emporia representing the handloom and handicraft traditions of various states, said a government release. The Mall houses emporia of Garvi Gurjari, Purbashree, Kairali, Mrugnayani, Pumpuhar, Gangotri and Kaveri, among others.

(With agency inputs)

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence.

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence. Keshubhai Patel passed away a few days ago. The PM gave a floral tribute to the departed leader and spent some time with Patel's kin and consoled the family. "Modiji recalled his long association with Keshubhai and asked us about his last moments, a family member told reporters after the PM left Patel's residence. Modi had on Thursday paid rich tributes to Patel, saying he had mentored many BJP workers, including him. Modi had remembered Patel through a series and tweets and shared some old photographs with the former Gujarat CM. "Our beloved and respected Keshubhai has passed away. I am deeply pained and saddened. He was an outstanding leader who cared for every section of society. "His life was devoted towards the progress of Gujarat and the empowerment of every Gujarati," Modi tweeted on Thursday. After meeting Patel's kin in Gandhinagar, the Prime Minister visited the grieving kin of Gujarati cinema superstar Naresh Kanodia and his music composer-brother Mahesh Kanodia, both of whom died recently, at their residence in the state capital. Also Read | India stood with France four times in last two days Naresh Kanodia (77) died on October 27 at a hospital while undergoing treatment for coronavirus, just two days after his elder brother Mahesh (83) died due to age-related ailments. Both brothers were associated with the BJP. While Naresh Kanodia was a former MLA, Mahesh Kanodia had served as a BJP MP. Modi paid floral tributes to the famous duo and spent some time with their family members, including Naresh Kanodias son Hitu Kanodia, a sitting BJP MLA. "Modiji fondly remembered my father and uncle. He told us that both the brothers loved each other immensely and now they have became immortal." "He also regretted not coming earlier to meet them," Hitu Kanodia told reporters. This is Modi's first visit to his home state after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Later in the day, PM Modi inaugurated 'Ekta Mall' a special store constructed near the Statue of Unity. In Ekta Mall, tourists can buy handloom and handicraft products from different states under one roof. PM Modi spent considerable amount of time at stall selling traditional items from Jammu and Kashmir and the north-east region. The mall, developed on the theme of Unity in Handicraft & Handloom Diversity, is spread across 35,000 square feet near the 182-metre tall Statue of Unity at Kevadiya in Gujarat's Narmada district. The imposing monument, dedicated to Sardar Patel, has emerged as a popular tourist site in Gujarat. Modi, accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, later visited different emporia in the Mall. The Mall, a two-storey air-conditioned store, houses 20 different emporia representing the handloom and handicraft traditions of various states, said a government release. The Mall houses emporia of Garvi Gurjari, Purbashree, Kairali, Mrugnayani, Pumpuhar, Gangotri and Kaveri, among others. (With agency inputs)

PM Modi pays tribute to Keshubhai Patel, spends time with departed leader's family in Gujarat

Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday.&nbsp;

The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area. The situation is getting worrisome as Ankara plans to conduct a seismic survey in the region.

A tweet by Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias said, "In a video conference with India FM Dr S Jaishankar. Strengthening Greek, India relations &amp; developments in Eastern Mediterranean &amp; South Asia in focus."

Delhi's ties with Turkey are not at their best -- given the support by Turkish President Recep Erdogan to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Erdogan had also raked the Kashmir issue at the United Nations.

During the virtual meet, the two ministers undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties, underpinned by long-standing historical and friendly relations as well as commonality of views on major international issues of the day, a minister of external affairs release said.&nbsp;

They also "discussed a wide range of regional and multilateral issues" especially in the context of India’s upcoming membership of the UNSC, the release added.&nbsp;

Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday. The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area.

Greece has briefed India about the current situation in the eastern Mediterranean. The foreign ministers of India and Greece met virtually on Thursday. The situation has been tensed in the eastern Mediterranean as Greece and Turkey have been embroiled in a dispute over energy exploration rights and maritime boundaries in the area. The situation is getting worrisome as Ankara plans to conduct a seismic survey in the region. A tweet by Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias said, "In a video conference with India FM Dr S Jaishankar. Strengthening Greek, India relations & developments in Eastern Mediterranean & South Asia in focus." Delhi's ties with Turkey are not at their best -- given the support by Turkish President Recep Erdogan to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Erdogan had also raked the Kashmir issue at the United Nations. During the virtual meet, the two ministers undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties, underpinned by long-standing historical and friendly relations as well as commonality of views on major international issues of the day, a minister of external affairs release said. They also "discussed a wide range of regional and multilateral issues" especially in the context of India’s upcoming membership of the UNSC, the release added.

Greece briefs India about situation in eastern Mediterranean

Former India Air Force, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said that India was prepared to get back Wing commander Abhinandan at any cost. Wg Cdr Abhinandan was captured by Pakistan during a dogfight & was released on March 1, 2019.

WION Dispatch: Ex-IAF chief: India was prepared to get back Wg Cdr Abhinandan at any cost

In a development that shows the closeness between India and France, New Delhi has come in full support for the French President Emmanuel Macron who is facing uncharitable remarks particularly after by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

India comes in full support for French President Macron

The Centre has paved the way for people from outside Jammu and Kashmir to buy land in the union territory by amending several laws, over a year after the nullification of Articles 370 and 35A of the Constitution.

India: Now anyone can buy land in Jammu and Kashmir

Japan is holding a drill with American soldiers. The US is supplying Taiwan with advanced weapons. Australia will join India, Japan and the US for the Malabar Exercise next month. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how US & its allies are building an Asian NATO.

Gravitas: How the United States is building the Asian NATO

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021.

Chief Executive Officer Erez Israeli said enrolment to the mid-stage trial of the Sputnik-V vaccine will start in the next few weeks and the trial was likely to end by December.

"(Phase 3 trial) can be over as fast as the end of March, but it could go into April or May," Israeli said on a post-earnings press briefing, adding the timeline will depend on the Phase 2 trial results and further approvals from authorities.

With 8 million COVID-19 infections and second only to the United States, India is pinning its hopes on a vaccine to stem the spread of the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/russias-sputnik-v-vaccine-against-covid-19-will-be-tested-on-100-indian-volunteers-337375" hreflang="en">Russia's Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 will be tested on 100 Indian volunteers</a>

The ongoing festive season and a state assembly election are seen by healthcare experts as adding to the challenges in containing the outbreak.

The Hyderabad-based company had received renewed approval for late-stage clinical trials in India of the Sputnik-V vaccine earlier this month, after initially signing a deal with the Russian Direct Investment Fund in September.

The company expects to enrol 100 participants for the mid-stage trial and 1,500 people for the late-stage.

Shares of the company closed 2.9% lower at 4,951 rupees in a weak Mumbai market after Dr Reddy's reported a 30.3% fall in consolidated net profit after tax from a year earlier. Net sales, however, jumped to 47.77 billion rupees from 39.98 billion rupees a year ago.

The drugmaker, which last week isolated all its data centre services as a preventive measure following a cyberattack, said it was a ransomware attack, but was yet to ascertain if any personal information was accessed.

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021.

Drugmaker Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd on Wednesday rolled out a preliminary timeline for the India trials of Russia's coronavirus vaccine candidate, with the late-stage expected to be completed by as early as March 2021. Chief Executive Officer Erez Israeli said enrolment to the mid-stage trial of the Sputnik-V vaccine will start in the next few weeks and the trial was likely to end by December. "(Phase 3 trial) can be over as fast as the end of March, but it could go into April or May," Israeli said on a post-earnings press briefing, adding the timeline will depend on the Phase 2 trial results and further approvals from authorities. With 8 million COVID-19 infections and second only to the United States, India is pinning its hopes on a vaccine to stem the spread of the pandemic. Also read: Russia's Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 will be tested on 100 Indian volunteers The ongoing festive season and a state assembly election are seen by healthcare experts as adding to the challenges in containing the outbreak. The Hyderabad-based company had received renewed approval for late-stage clinical trials in India of the Sputnik-V vaccine earlier this month, after initially signing a deal with the Russian Direct Investment Fund in September. The company expects to enrol 100 participants for the mid-stage trial and 1,500 people for the late-stage. Shares of the company closed 2.9% lower at 4,951 rupees in a weak Mumbai market after Dr Reddy's reported a 30.3% fall in consolidated net profit after tax from a year earlier. Net sales, however, jumped to 47.77 billion rupees from 39.98 billion rupees a year ago. The drugmaker, which last week isolated all its data centre services as a preventive measure following a cyberattack, said it was a ransomware attack, but was yet to ascertain if any personal information was accessed.

India trials of Russian Sputnik-V vaccine may end as early as March: Dr Reddy's

India and the US are expanding their defence partnership to tackle China's military aggression. A key military pact was inked in Delhi today. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how the Basic Exchange & Cooperation Agreement (BECA) helps India in the ongoing border standoff with China.

Gravitas: India-China standoff: How Indo-US military pact helps Indian forces

India and the US are expanding their defence partnership to tackle China's military aggression. A key military pact was inked in Delhi today. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the Basic Exchange & Cooperation Agreement (BECA) helps India in the ongoing border standoff with China.

Gravitas: India- China standoff: How Indo-US military pact helps Indian forces

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