India and China are holding the seventh round of Corps Commander-level meet on Monday in Chushul in eastern Ladakh, amidst the continuing stalemate along the LAC.

India & China holding 7th level military talks in Chushul

Amidst the continuing stalemate along the LAC in Ladakh, the seventh round of Corps Commander-level meet are scheduled to be held on Monday in Chushul in eastern Ladakh.

LAC Standoff: 7th level military talks to be held in Chushul

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday.

Analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast that retail inflation would rise to 6.88% in September, compared to 6.69% in the previous month.

(More details awaited)

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday.

India's annual retail inflation picked up in September to 7.34% from a year ago as food prices surged ahead of the festival season, government data showed on Monday. Analysts in a Reuters poll had forecast that retail inflation would rise to 6.88% in September, compared to 6.69% in the previous month. (More details awaited)

India's September inflation picks up to 7.34%

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country.

Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.05 million, second only to the US which has recorded 7.67 million infections.

Experts say that the true number may be much higher, with testing rates in the vast country of 1.3 billion people -- home to some of the planet's most crowded cities -- much lower than in many other countries.

This is borne out by a string of studies measuring antibodies to the virus among the Indian population that have indicated infection rates could be several times higher than officially recorded.

India's death toll of 108,334 as of Sunday is also lower than in the US and other countries with higher caseloads.

The United States has recorded 214,000 deaths while Brazil, with two million fewer infections than India, has lost nearly 150,000 lives so far.

Possible factors for this include India's relatively young population, immunity thanks to other diseases -- and under-reporting.

The rise in infections in India comes as the government continues to lift restrictions to boost an economy battered by a severe lockdown imposed in March.

On Thursday, cinemas are set to re-open -- albeit at 50 percent capacity -- and experts fear the upcoming festival season when large crowds gather for public celebrations will exacerbate the situation.

Anticipating a fresh surge in cases, the government has issued strict guidelines and capped the number of revellers for the two main Hindu festivals of Dussehra on October 25 and Diwali next month.

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a mass awareness campaign, encouraging the public to wear masks, practise hand hygiene and maintain physical distance.

"Our collective efforts have helped saved many lives. We have&nbsp;to continue the momentum and protect our citizens from the virus," Modi tweeted.

- 'Underlying anxiety' -

The virus initially hit major metropolises such as Mumbai and New Delhi, but has since spread to almost every corner of the huge country, including the remote Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Recently, the daily number of new cases has fallen from a peak of almost 100,000 in mid-September to around 60,000-70,000.

But Preeti Kumar of the Delhi-based Public Health Foundation of India said it was too early to assume India has passed the peak.

"What the epidemic has taught us is caution. These declines (in numbers) are real but depend on many factors such as testing, type of testing, intervention efficacy etcetera," Kumar told AFP.

Many Indians are worried too.

"Despite the government's efforts to take things back to normal, it doesn't feel that way because there is an underlying anxiety that I may be the next to become a part of the virus statistics," said Anamika Prasad, 23, a university student.

Jayprakash Shukla, 66, a retired government official, said he was worried about cases going up "hugely and beyond control".

"When I go out, I see many people without masks," he said.

"Maybe they are fed up of wearing masks but if people don't change their ways, it is going to be calamitous for our country."

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country. Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.

India's coronavirus cases surged past seven million on Sunday, taking it ever closer to overtaking the United States as the world's most infected country. Health ministry data showed a rise of almost 75,000 cases on Sunday, taking the total to 7.05 million, second only to the US which has recorded 7.67 million infections. Experts say that the true number may be much higher, with testing rates in the vast country of 1.3 billion people -- home to some of the planet's most crowded cities -- much lower than in many other countries. This is borne out by a string of studies measuring antibodies to the virus among the Indian population that have indicated infection rates could be several times higher than officially recorded. India's death toll of 108,334 as of Sunday is also lower than in the US and other countries with higher caseloads. The United States has recorded 214,000 deaths while Brazil, with two million fewer infections than India, has lost nearly 150,000 lives so far. Possible factors for this include India's relatively young population, immunity thanks to other diseases -- and under-reporting. The rise in infections in India comes as the government continues to lift restrictions to boost an economy battered by a severe lockdown imposed in March. On Thursday, cinemas are set to re-open -- albeit at 50 percent capacity -- and experts fear the upcoming festival season when large crowds gather for public celebrations will exacerbate the situation. Anticipating a fresh surge in cases, the government has issued strict guidelines and capped the number of revellers for the two main Hindu festivals of Dussehra on October 25 and Diwali next month. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a mass awareness campaign, encouraging the public to wear masks, practise hand hygiene and maintain physical distance. "Our collective efforts have helped saved many lives. We have to continue the momentum and protect our citizens from the virus," Modi tweeted. - 'Underlying anxiety' - The virus initially hit major metropolises such as Mumbai and New Delhi, but has since spread to almost every corner of the huge country, including the remote Andaman and Nicobar islands. Recently, the daily number of new cases has fallen from a peak of almost 100,000 in mid-September to around 60,000-70,000. But Preeti Kumar of the Delhi-based Public Health Foundation of India said it was too early to assume India has passed the peak. "What the epidemic has taught us is caution. These declines (in numbers) are real but depend on many factors such as testing, type of testing, intervention efficacy etcetera," Kumar told AFP. Many Indians are worried too. "Despite the government's efforts to take things back to normal, it doesn't feel that way because there is an underlying anxiety that I may be the next to become a part of the virus statistics," said Anamika Prasad, 23, a university student. Jayprakash Shukla, 66, a retired government official, said he was worried about cases going up "hugely and beyond control". "When I go out, I see many people without masks," he said. "Maybe they are fed up of wearing masks but if people don't change their ways, it is going to be calamitous for our country."

India coronavirus cases cross 7 million

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has recently warned Delhi is likely to report around 15,000 Covid-19 cases daily in winter.

India: COVID-19 cases top 7 million mark | India Top news | Corona news

The Indian Air Force on Saturday displayed its aerial might by carrying out sorties in the Leh-Ladakh region near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). India’s preparedness to protect its territory and uphold its territorial integrity was marked by sorties by C-17 Globemaster, Ilyushin-76 and Antonio-32 transport, along with the Apache and Chinook heavy-lift choppers.

India-China standoff: MiG 29, Chinook part of the operation in Ladakh

Inching closer to overtake the united states, India's coronavirus cases have now surged past the 7 million mark. In the last 24-hours, India has recorded 74,383 cases. Watch report,

Coronavirus pandemic: India COVID-19 cases cross 7 million mark

India is collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-3 trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidate even as New Delhi has sent 7 consignments of essential medicines to the country since March 2020 amid the pandemic.&nbsp;

The consignments of essential anti-COVID-19 medicines include Paracetamol, Cetrizine, Hydroxychloroquine. Other than medicines, India has also sent medical equipment such as PPE kits, N95 masks, RT-PCR test kits, X-ray machine to Bhutan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-peace-negotiator-abdullah-abdullah-meets-pm-modi-briefs-about-intra-afghan-talks-in-doha-333416">Afghan peace negotiator Abdullah Abdullah meets PM Modi; briefs about intra-Afghan talks in Doha</a>

In fact, on Thursday, Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj handed over portable digital X-ray machines to Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji and will be used in conducting critical health services in southern. the border town of Phuentsholing.

The Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "India’s gesture to continue delivery of essential medical supplies is a reflection of the special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades."

Bhutan's FM in a tweet said, "I would like to thank Government of India for the continued support".

Both countries have also started an air transport bubble for the movement of people between the countries. Druk Air, which is the flag carrier of Bhutan, operated the first flight from Paro to Bagdogra in West Bengal on October 1

Bhutan's envoy to India, Maj. Gen. Vetsop Namgyel speaking to WION said, "The India Bhutan air transport bubble arrangement enables citizens of our two close neighbours working and residing in each other's country to travel to and fro by air. It is a good interim measure before regular commercial flights can resume. "

India already has a transport air bubble with Afghanistan and Maldives. The Maldives was the first country in South Asia with which India established transport air bubble.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India is collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-3 trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidate even as New Delhi has sent 7 consignments of essential medicines to the country since March 2020 amid the pandemic.

India is collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-3 trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidate even as New Delhi has sent 7 consignments of essential medicines to the country since March 2020 amid the pandemic. The consignments of essential anti-COVID-19 medicines include Paracetamol, Cetrizine, Hydroxychloroquine. Other than medicines, India has also sent medical equipment such as PPE kits, N95 masks, RT-PCR test kits, X-ray machine to Bhutan. Also read | Afghan peace negotiator Abdullah Abdullah meets PM Modi; briefs about intra-Afghan talks in Doha In fact, on Thursday, Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj handed over portable digital X-ray machines to Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji and will be used in conducting critical health services in southern. the border town of Phuentsholing. The Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "India’s gesture to continue delivery of essential medical supplies is a reflection of the special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades." Bhutan's FM in a tweet said, "I would like to thank Government of India for the continued support". Both countries have also started an air transport bubble for the movement of people between the countries. Druk Air, which is the flag carrier of Bhutan, operated the first flight from Paro to Bagdogra in West Bengal on October 1 Bhutan's envoy to India, Maj. Gen. Vetsop Namgyel speaking to WION said, "The India Bhutan air transport bubble arrangement enables citizens of our two close neighbours working and residing in each other's country to travel to and fro by air. It is a good interim measure before regular commercial flights can resume. " India already has a transport air bubble with Afghanistan and Maldives. The Maldives was the first country in South Asia with which India established transport air bubble.

India-Bhutan collaborate on Phase-3 trials of Covid-19 vaccine

Global companies are decoupling from China. India has extended incentives worth more than $6 billion to 16 companies for smartphone production facilities. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more about India's bid to become a global hub for smartphones.

Made in India smartphones: A $143 billion plan | Gravitas

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The government said it will not allow any type of garba event in the state during Navratri, starting from October 17, and also released a set of guidelines for the festive season, which usually sees large gatherings, a fertile ground for COVID-19 spread.&nbsp;

For the upcoming festivals, the BJP government released standard operating procedures (SOPs) which stress on COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by citizens to curb the infection.

No big, medium or small scale garba event will be allowed in the state during the nine-day festival, the government said.

Garba is a popular folk dance of Gujarat and is performed with passion and fervour during the Navratri festival.

The government, however, will allow collective prayers to Goddess Durga where number of people should not be more than 200, it said in a release.

The time limit of prayers will beof one hour, but nobody can perform garba at such gatherings, it said. 
Prior permission of government authorities has been made mandatory for organisation of community prayer programmes during Navratri.

At prayer gatherings, COVID-19-related norms such as social distancing, covering of face with masks and use of sanitisers will be mandatory, the release said.

The government said citizens above 65, children below 10 years, pregnant women and people with comorbidities should avoid participating in any public programme during the festivals.

Navratri is one of the most popular festivals of Gujarat and is called the longest dance festival of the world. Revellers dance to the tune of traditional music and songs for nine nights.

The government said event such as burning of effigies of Ravana, Ramlila yatras, rallies, melas (congregations), exhibitions would not be allowed during the festive season (from Navratri to Diwali).

It advised people to celebrate festivals like Dussehra, Durga puja, Diwali, Gujarati New Year, Bhai dooj and Sharad Poornima at their homes with their families.

In the SOPs, the government said up to 100 people can attend functions such as marriage and the same number will be allowed at funerals.

During any event, the organisers will have to do floor marking with minimum distance of 6 feet, it said. 
Thermal scanners are compulsory at Navratri community prayers and other events, the release said.

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic. The government said it will not allow any type of garba event in the state during Navratri, starting from October 17, and also released a set of guidelines for the festive season, which usually sees large gatherings, a fertile ground for COVID-19 spread. For the upcoming festivals, the BJP government released standard operating procedures (SOPs) which stress on COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by citizens to curb the infection. No big, medium or small scale garba event will be allowed in the state during the nine-day festival, the government said. Garba is a popular folk dance of Gujarat and is performed with passion and fervour during the Navratri festival. The government, however, will allow collective prayers to Goddess Durga where number of people should not be more than 200, it said in a release. The time limit of prayers will beof one hour, but nobody can perform garba at such gatherings, it said. Prior permission of government authorities has been made mandatory for organisation of community prayer programmes during Navratri. At prayer gatherings, COVID-19-related norms such as social distancing, covering of face with masks and use of sanitisers will be mandatory, the release said. The government said citizens above 65, children below 10 years, pregnant women and people with comorbidities should avoid participating in any public programme during the festivals. Navratri is one of the most popular festivals of Gujarat and is called the longest dance festival of the world. Revellers dance to the tune of traditional music and songs for nine nights. The government said event such as burning of effigies of Ravana, Ramlila yatras, rallies, melas (congregations), exhibitions would not be allowed during the festive season (from Navratri to Diwali). It advised people to celebrate festivals like Dussehra, Durga puja, Diwali, Gujarati New Year, Bhai dooj and Sharad Poornima at their homes with their families. In the SOPs, the government said up to 100 people can attend functions such as marriage and the same number will be allowed at funerals. During any event, the organisers will have to do floor marking with minimum distance of 6 feet, it said. Thermal scanners are compulsory at Navratri community prayers and other events, the release said.

No garba in Gujarat this Navratri due to coronavirus

India has refused to allow large scale trials of Russia's alleged COVID vaccine named Sputnik-V in the country. The vaccine to be tested first in a smaller trial.

Your Story: India refuses to allow large scale trials of Russia's alleged COVID vaccine Sputnik-V

Google is facing a new antitrust case in India in which the US tech giant is alleged to have abused its Android operating system's position in the smart television market. Watch report.

Google faces new antitrust case in India over abuse in smart TVs market

India has briefed envoys of Nordic and Baltic countries in Delhi on the current situation with China,&nbsp;as the&nbsp;Line of Actual Control remains tense&nbsp;due to Chinese presence.&nbsp;India, China ties have gone southward since May after the Chinese side tried to change the "patrolling pattern" at LAC, followed by Galwan incident in June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers.

During the meeting that happened on Monday, Secretary (Economic Relation) Rahul Chhabra and Secretary (West) Vikas Swarup were present, with the key focus on&nbsp;the further development of economic ties.

Nordic countries consist of countries of Northern Europe -- Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden while Baltic countries consist of countries bordering Baltic sea--Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.&nbsp;

In 2018, the first India-Nordic summit happened in Sweden, with plans underway to host the 2nd India Nordic summit in Denmark. Vice&nbsp;President had visited all 3 Baltic countries in 2019 as part of New Delhi's reach out.

Ministry of the external affair has been meeting envoys of various groupings, and in the past, a meet with ASEAN envoy happened.&nbsp;

India has briefed envoys of Nordic and Baltic countries in Delhi on the current situation with China, as the Line of Actual Control remains tense due to Chinese presence.

India has briefed envoys of Nordic and Baltic countries in Delhi on the current situation with China, as the Line of Actual Control remains tense due to Chinese presence. India, China ties have gone southward since May after the Chinese side tried to change the "patrolling pattern" at LAC, followed by Galwan incident in June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. During the meeting that happened on Monday, Secretary (Economic Relation) Rahul Chhabra and Secretary (West) Vikas Swarup were present, with the key focus on the further development of economic ties. Nordic countries consist of countries of Northern Europe -- Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden while Baltic countries consist of countries bordering Baltic sea--Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. In 2018, the first India-Nordic summit happened in Sweden, with plans underway to host the 2nd India Nordic summit in Denmark. Vice President had visited all 3 Baltic countries in 2019 as part of New Delhi's reach out. Ministry of the external affair has been meeting envoys of various groupings, and in the past, a meet with ASEAN envoy happened.

India briefs envoys of Nordic & Baltic countries on LAC situation with China

The Quad has been around for 13 years. The aim of the alliance is to contain China's growing aggression. But, the Quad has been shy of saying it out aloud. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the Quad must move beyond being a symbolic alliance.

Gravitas: Will 2020 be a turning point for the Quad?

Foreign Ministers of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met in Tokyo today. This Quad meeting was seen as an effort to cement the alliance. Can the Quad rise up to take on China? WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the Quad must not play safe now.

Quad Meeting in Tokyo: Can the alliance go beyond words? | Gravitas

All the noise around the QUAD meeting, yet the members could not stitch together a joint statement, not even to condemn their common adversary-China. WION's Palki Sharma asks- What is holding back India, U.S, Japan, and Australia?

Gravitas: Is the QUAD a lost opportunity?

China says India and the US broke WTO rules by banning apps like TikTok & WeChat. Reportedly, China raised its objections at a closed-door meeting at WTO. Is China trying to bend the WTO to its will? WION'sPalki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is China trying to bend the World Trade Organisation to its will?

India & Japan has signed an ambitious agreement that provides cooperation in 5G technology, artificial intelligence, and an array of other critical areas.

WION Dispatch: India & Japan finalise pact for cooperation in 5G tech

India can prove to be an excellent base for the defence and aerospace industry, for provision of repair, overhaul, maintenance and servicing facilities, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday. 
 
The minister said that India can also become a centre for regional distribution and services. 
 
Addressing the Ambassadors` Round Table Conference on Aero India 2021 through video conference, Rajnath said Aero India since inception has carved out a place for itself and has become a leading international event in the area of showcasing the capabilities of Indian defence and aerospace industry. 
 
Aero India 2021, the 13th edition of the biennial air show and aviation exhibition is scheduled to be held from 3-7 February 2021 in Bengaluru. 
 
"India has one of the largest defence industrial eco-systems in Asia and we aspire to build further on our strengths," the minister said. 
 
He also said that the private sector and public-private partnerships through joint ventures and foreign direct investment have also boosted the national efforts in building the domestic defence and aerospace industry. 
 
"Aero India provides an ideal platform for businesses, decision-makers and policymakers to interact to address common concerns and contribute to global defence and aerospace ecosystems and position India as a defence manufacturing hub," he said. 
 
With numerous business events and large number of participants, Aero India will provide the intellectuals and industry new meeting grounds for developing military industrial enterprise, the minister said. "India has one of the world`s largest technically qualified manpower and we do claim to be a force to reckon with in the field of Information Technology," he said. 
 
The minister said that it would provide an excellent opportunity for leading companies worldwide to enter into partnerships with established Indian companies for repair, overhaul, maintenance and other services. 
 
He also talked about numerous government reforms which have been announced for ease of business. "It has been endeavour of our government to constantly undertake policy initiatives to attract investments in defence and aerospace industry," he said. 
 
He also highlighted that a new category of Buy global - manufacture in India has been further introduced in Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. "The new category incorporates manufacture of the equipment or (Maintenance Repair and Overall) facility for equipment, through foreign company`s subsidiary in India," the minister said. 
 
He highlighted that from design to production, Indian government is trying to make the country one of the leading countries of the world in the defence, aerospace and naval shipbuilding sectors with active participation of public and private sector. 
 
"For fulfilling the twin objectives of self-reliance and exports Ministry of Defence (MoD) has formulated a draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020 (DPEPP 2020)," he stressed. 
 
He pointed that India will be strictly adhering to all the requisite protocols to tackle Covid-19. "In view of the ongoing pandemic, it has been decided that emphasis will be laid on contactless experience to all exhibitors and visitors," the minister pointed. 
 
He said that Aero India will provide great opportunities for a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership between the defence and aerospace industries of the world and India. 
 
"We need to remove impediments coming in the way of our natural alliance in a purposeful and progressive manner and join hands to make this world a more secure, peaceful and prosperous place," the minister said.

India can prove to be an excellent base for the defence and aerospace industry, for provision of repair, overhaul, maintenance and servicing facilities, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday.

India can prove to be an excellent base for the defence and aerospace industry, for provision of repair, overhaul, maintenance and servicing facilities, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday. The minister said that India can also become a centre for regional distribution and services. Addressing the Ambassadors` Round Table Conference on Aero India 2021 through video conference, Rajnath said Aero India since inception has carved out a place for itself and has become a leading international event in the area of showcasing the capabilities of Indian defence and aerospace industry. Aero India 2021, the 13th edition of the biennial air show and aviation exhibition is scheduled to be held from 3-7 February 2021 in Bengaluru. "India has one of the largest defence industrial eco-systems in Asia and we aspire to build further on our strengths," the minister said. He also said that the private sector and public-private partnerships through joint ventures and foreign direct investment have also boosted the national efforts in building the domestic defence and aerospace industry. "Aero India provides an ideal platform for businesses, decision-makers and policymakers to interact to address common concerns and contribute to global defence and aerospace ecosystems and position India as a defence manufacturing hub," he said. With numerous business events and large number of participants, Aero India will provide the intellectuals and industry new meeting grounds for developing military industrial enterprise, the minister said. "India has one of the world`s largest technically qualified manpower and we do claim to be a force to reckon with in the field of Information Technology," he said. The minister said that it would provide an excellent opportunity for leading companies worldwide to enter into partnerships with established Indian companies for repair, overhaul, maintenance and other services. He also talked about numerous government reforms which have been announced for ease of business. "It has been endeavour of our government to constantly undertake policy initiatives to attract investments in defence and aerospace industry," he said. He also highlighted that a new category of Buy global - manufacture in India has been further introduced in Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. "The new category incorporates manufacture of the equipment or (Maintenance Repair and Overall) facility for equipment, through foreign company`s subsidiary in India," the minister said. He highlighted that from design to production, Indian government is trying to make the country one of the leading countries of the world in the defence, aerospace and naval shipbuilding sectors with active participation of public and private sector. "For fulfilling the twin objectives of self-reliance and exports Ministry of Defence (MoD) has formulated a draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020 (DPEPP 2020)," he stressed. He pointed that India will be strictly adhering to all the requisite protocols to tackle Covid-19. "In view of the ongoing pandemic, it has been decided that emphasis will be laid on contactless experience to all exhibitors and visitors," the minister pointed. He said that Aero India will provide great opportunities for a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership between the defence and aerospace industries of the world and India. "We need to remove impediments coming in the way of our natural alliance in a purposeful and progressive manner and join hands to make this world a more secure, peaceful and prosperous place," the minister said.

India can become base for defence industry: Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh

Two days mountain biking festival recently held in Ladakh, India's Himalayan Territory. This festival invited both professional & amateur riders.

Two days mountain biking festival recently held in Ladakh, India's Himalayan Territory

The Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled against the legality of the Shaheen Bagh protest, saying public spaces cannot be occupied indefinitely by protesters.

Shaheen Bagh Case: Public Places, Roads Can't be Occupied Indefinitely, Says Supreme Court

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan.

However, in the past, the group has been shy of openly declaring its intentions.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-the-quad-a-lost-opportunity-333008/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-is-an-idea-whose-time-has-come-but-ideas-need-implementation-333013">Quad is an idea whose time has come. But ideas need implementation</a>

The group met for the first time in 2017 and a few years before this these countries had joined hands for ad hoc relief operations after the 2004 tsunami.&nbsp;

The prime ministers of India, Japan, Australia met with the then US Vice President Dick Cheney.&nbsp;

The first 'Quad' summit happened on the sidelines of the ASEAN Forum.

Since then, the idea of the alliance has been around, made news, but fallen short of taking any substantive action.&nbsp;

A decade later, though, the alliance was resurrected in 2017 and the members of 'Quad' had a working-level meeting.&nbsp;

And now, amid the pandemic, the foreign ministers have met in Tokyo, which reflects a clear sense of purpose, an urgency to take a harder stand against China.&nbsp;

America is not mincing words on China and Australia has named the Asian giant as a threat in its strategic assessment.&nbsp;

Australia's department of defence has said that China is engaged in active pursuit of "greater influence in the Indo-Pacific".&nbsp;

India has already locked in a border standoff with China and since May, New Delhi has imposed curbs on Beijing's investments.

More than 100 Chinese apps have been banned in India.&nbsp;

And, Japan's territorial disputes in the East China Sea have flared up again.&nbsp;

Japan was the country that proposed this alliance and now it has become the host for the meeting of the group's foreign ministers.

<h2>What will the 'Quad' do?</h2>

The US wants the alliance to have a clear military dimension.&nbsp;

Reports suggest Washington is considering inviting air forces of the group's allies for training at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam

The Guam base is a key US military facility in the Pacific and may also be China's first target if hostilities escalate between the two countries.&nbsp;

Last month, the Chinese Air Force released a propaganda video that simulated an attack on the base. But eagle-eyed fact-checkers were quick to point out how Chinese stole clips from Hollywood movies to make this fake video.&nbsp;

In recent months, China has made its intentions clear. It is indulging in more fights and staking a claim on more territories.&nbsp;

The time is right for all the four nations to move beyond being a symbolic alliance.&nbsp;

It must set out clear objectives and each ally must commit to tangible contributions.&nbsp;

They could start by naming China as the common enemy first.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan.

Four countries have one agenda to stop China's efforts to dominate the Indo-Pacific. China's expansionism threat is not new and neither the 'Quad' or the Quadrilateral alliance between India, Australia, United States and Japan. However, in the past, the group has been shy of openly declaring its intentions. Watch | Also read | Quad is an idea whose time has come. But ideas need implementation The group met for the first time in 2017 and a few years before this these countries had joined hands for ad hoc relief operations after the 2004 tsunami. The prime ministers of India, Japan, Australia met with the then US Vice President Dick Cheney. The first 'Quad' summit happened on the sidelines of the ASEAN Forum. Since then, the idea of the alliance has been around, made news, but fallen short of taking any substantive action. A decade later, though, the alliance was resurrected in 2017 and the members of 'Quad' had a working-level meeting. And now, amid the pandemic, the foreign ministers have met in Tokyo, which reflects a clear sense of purpose, an urgency to take a harder stand against China. America is not mincing words on China and Australia has named the Asian giant as a threat in its strategic assessment. Australia's department of defence has said that China is engaged in active pursuit of "greater influence in the Indo-Pacific". India has already locked in a border standoff with China and since May, New Delhi has imposed curbs on Beijing's investments. More than 100 Chinese apps have been banned in India. And, Japan's territorial disputes in the East China Sea have flared up again. Japan was the country that proposed this alliance and now it has become the host for the meeting of the group's foreign ministers. What will the 'Quad' do? The US wants the alliance to have a clear military dimension. Reports suggest Washington is considering inviting air forces of the group's allies for training at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam The Guam base is a key US military facility in the Pacific and may also be China's first target if hostilities escalate between the two countries. Last month, the Chinese Air Force released a propaganda video that simulated an attack on the base. But eagle-eyed fact-checkers were quick to point out how Chinese stole clips from Hollywood movies to make this fake video. In recent months, China has made its intentions clear. It is indulging in more fights and staking a claim on more territories. The time is right for all the four nations to move beyond being a symbolic alliance. It must set out clear objectives and each ally must commit to tangible contributions. They could start by naming China as the common enemy first.

Quad: A potential force to counter China needs to move beyond symbolism

India has assured Myanmar it would give the country priority on coronavirus vaccine and speed up infrastructure projects in the country during the visit of Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's two-day visit.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "It was also agreed that the cooperation to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic will be deepened. The FC indicated India’s willingness to prioritise Myanmar in sharing vaccines as and when these become available."

Earlier on Monday, Army Chief and the foreign secretary presented 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Myanmar's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a "symbol" of India’s commitment to assist Myanmar in its fight against the pandemic.&nbsp;

The Myanmar foreign ministry mentioned about both countries discussing "possibility of joint production of COVID-19 vaccine".

On the infrastructure front, operationalisation of the Sittwe Port in the early part of 2021 was a key point of discussion. Remember, this was discussed during last week's virtual India Myanmar Foreign Office Consultations also.

The MEA release on the outcome of the visit explained: "Both sides also discussed progress in the ongoing Indian-assisted infrastructure projects such as the Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project."

Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar.

The release added that both sides "exchanged views on an early initiation of work on fresh initiatives such as the up-gradation of Yamethin Women's Police Academy, Basic Technical Training School and measures to provide long term sustainability to projects such as the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology."

Other than that, India has announced a grant of $2 million for the construction of the border haat bridge at Byanyu/Sarsichauk in Myanmar's Chin State which will provide increased economic connectivity between Mizoram and Myanmar. A quota of 1.5 lakh tonnes of Urad for import from Myanmar till 31 March 2021 was also announced.&nbsp;

During the meet, the army chief and the FS called on State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the Commander in Chief of Defense Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Army Chief also met Vice Senior General Soe Win, Deputy Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Armed Services and FS met U Soe Han, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar.

India has assured Myanmar it would give the country priority on coronavirus vaccine and speed up infrastructure projects in the country during the visit of Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's two-day visit.

India has assured Myanmar it would give the country priority on coronavirus vaccine and speed up infrastructure projects in the country during the visit of Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's two-day visit. A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "It was also agreed that the cooperation to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic will be deepened. The FC indicated India’s willingness to prioritise Myanmar in sharing vaccines as and when these become available." Earlier on Monday, Army Chief and the foreign secretary presented 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Myanmar's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a "symbol" of India’s commitment to assist Myanmar in its fight against the pandemic. The Myanmar foreign ministry mentioned about both countries discussing "possibility of joint production of COVID-19 vaccine". On the infrastructure front, operationalisation of the Sittwe Port in the early part of 2021 was a key point of discussion. Remember, this was discussed during last week's virtual India Myanmar Foreign Office Consultations also. The MEA release on the outcome of the visit explained: "Both sides also discussed progress in the ongoing Indian-assisted infrastructure projects such as the Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project." Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar. The release added that both sides "exchanged views on an early initiation of work on fresh initiatives such as the up-gradation of Yamethin Women's Police Academy, Basic Technical Training School and measures to provide long term sustainability to projects such as the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology." Other than that, India has announced a grant of $2 million for the construction of the border haat bridge at Byanyu/Sarsichauk in Myanmar's Chin State which will provide increased economic connectivity between Mizoram and Myanmar. A quota of 1.5 lakh tonnes of Urad for import from Myanmar till 31 March 2021 was also announced. During the meet, the army chief and the FS called on State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the Commander in Chief of Defense Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Army Chief also met Vice Senior General Soe Win, Deputy Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Armed Services and FS met U Soe Han, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar.

India assures Myanmar Covid vaccine, speeding up infra projects

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