A group of cable operators in Nepal have now decided to lift the ban on Indian private news channels in the country. Watch report.

Ban on Indian private news channels lifted in Nepal | World News

Coronavirus in India has hit exports of costlier items including electronics and gold. The country has posted a trade surplus of 790 MN dollars in June it's first in over 18 years.

Imports down, Exports up: PM Modi pushing for import substitutes

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson says, China is committed to peace and tranquility at LAC. India and China held fourth round of talk yesterday. Today Ministry Spokesperson says, Hope India can work with China

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson says, Hope India can work with China

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday. 
 
Chief Minister K Palaniswami, in an order, has given the State's approval after ICMR sought Tamil Nadu government's permission to study the efficacy of the Bacillus Calmette- Gurin (BCG) vaccine in senior citizens at its National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT) at Chetpet here,Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-zydus-begins-human-trials-for-potential-covid-19-vaccine-313409" hreflang="en">India's Zydus begins human trials for potential COVID-19 vaccine</a> 
 
"The ICMR's tuberculosis institute is set to begin the trial very soon," he said in a statement. 
 
He hoped that vaccinating the elderly with the time tested BCG would help reduce the intensity of COVID-19, admissions at hospitals and mortality rates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-rise-to-93-lakh-death-toll-at-24309-313399" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309</a> 
 
Describing the state's approval by Palaniswami for a trial here as among measures to protect people's welfare during the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Vijayabaskar said anti-viral measures will further be stepped up. 
 
The NIRT under the ICMR is an internationally recognised institution for TB research.

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday.

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday. Chief Minister K Palaniswami, in an order, has given the State's approval after ICMR sought Tamil Nadu government's permission to study the efficacy of the Bacillus Calmette- Gurin (BCG) vaccine in senior citizens at its National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT) at Chetpet here,Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said. Also read: India's Zydus begins human trials for potential COVID-19 vaccine "The ICMR's tuberculosis institute is set to begin the trial very soon," he said in a statement. He hoped that vaccinating the elderly with the time tested BCG would help reduce the intensity of COVID-19, admissions at hospitals and mortality rates. Also read: Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309 Describing the state's approval by Palaniswami for a trial here as among measures to protect people's welfare during the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Vijayabaskar said anti-viral measures will further be stepped up. The NIRT under the ICMR is an internationally recognised institution for TB research.

Tamil Nadu govt gives consent to BCG trial at ICMR's Chennai institute

India is set to make the Public Distribution System location independent to ensure that no one, especially the inter-state migrants, is left behind, NITI Aayog CEO has said, citing the 'One Nation, One Card' initiative being implemented by the government as a transformative solution in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing the special event on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Acceleration Actions on the margins of 2020 High-Level Political Forum on Tuesday, Amitabh Kant said collective action through international cooperation is more relevant and important than ever before in these truly unprecedented times.

He told the session that the "One Nation, One Card' initiative is an example of a recent transformative solution by India presently being implemented as a response to the pandemic.

"The first half of 2020 has underscored the importance of responsive and adaptive policy making, more than ever before. When challenges are dynamic and unprecedented, peer learning and knowledge exchange are of utmost significance. We are deeply committed to foster this spirit and accelerate progress on the SDG targets by not only focusing on the recovery but by building back better for long term transformation," Kant said.

The "One Nation, One Card' initiative ensures right-based access to food supplies and covers over 800 million people at cost as low as 3-5 cents. He added that this is operationalised through beneficiary cards issued by the sub-national governments.

"By leveraging the technological capacity meticulously built over the last few years, India is all set to roll out interoperability in making access to the Public Distribution System location independent," Kant said adding that it is a "momentous step to ensure that no one is left behind, especially the inter-state migrants."

The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the power of collectivised problem solving, he said.

Under the "One Nation-One Ration Card' initiative, eligible beneficiaries would be able to avail their entitled foodgrains under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) from any Fair Price Shop in the country using the same ration card. The Food Ministry aims to implement this facility across the country by March 2021.

Kant added that "invigorated and renewed synergy" between the government and the private sector has resulted in over 400,000 PPEs and 220,000 N-95 masks being manufactured in India, every day.

"In February this year, we were producing none. This aligns closely with our flagship 'Make in India' approach, through which we aim at becoming a globally competitive manufacturing hub," he said.

Meanwhile, India on Monday presented its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the High-Level Political Forum.

India's VNR report titled "Decade of Action: Taking SDGs from Global to Local' highlights not only the country's progress on the SDGs, but also captures the inclusive and participatory process followed in its preparation.

Kant told the session that India is aggressively expanding its renewable energy programme, increasing the renewable energy capacity by 75 per cent since 2014 and aiming to achieve the ambitious target of 450 GW by 2030.

"We have made the global pledge, as part of our Nationally Determined Contributions, to have 40 per cent of cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources," he said, adding that India's renewable energy sector has become a prime destination for global investors, with a potential to attract 10 billion dollars of annual investments.

In the global Ease of Doing Business rankings, India has jumped 79 places in the past five years: from 142 in 2014 to 62 in 2019.

"Our structural reforms in taxation, FDI regime, and insolvency and bankruptcy have contributed to this improvement," he said.

Emphasising that 21st century challenges need 21st century solutions, Kant said the role of innovation is critical in designing solutions for SDG acceleration and building back better. Today, India is home to the third largest start-up ecosystem in the world, with the third largest number of unicorns.

"We firmly believe that these disruptions in the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem will accelerate our pace of achieving the SDGs," he said.

He also pointed out that the government's Aspirational Districts Programme aims at accelerating transformative socio-economic improvement in 112 districts of the country with relatively greater development challenges.

By improving the lives of over 165 million citizens in these districts in terms of health, education, basic infrastructure, agriculture and water, and financial inclusion and skill development, the initiative highlights the efficacy of the cooperative and competitive federalism approach to development, he said.

"Sharing SDG acceleration actions and successes will be incomplete without discussing SDG localisation in India. Fostering sub-national peer-learning and competitiveness is the approach we took when we released the world's first government-led sub-national SDG Index in 2018," he said.

Kant said the SDG India Index and Dashboard, which annually ranks Indian States based on their SDG performance, has reshaped the SDG framework adoption and localisation discourse in the country. It has resulted in sub-national entities instituting monitoring systems and preparing development strategies aligned to the goals of the 2030 Agenda, which are customised to the local and hyper-local context.

India is set to make the Public Distribution System location independent to ensure that no one, especially the inter-state migrants, is left behind, NITI Aayog CEO has said, citing the 'One Nation, One Card' initiative being implemented by the government as a transformative solution in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India is set to make the Public Distribution System location independent to ensure that no one, especially the inter-state migrants, is left behind, NITI Aayog CEO has said, citing the 'One Nation, One Card' initiative being implemented by the government as a transformative solution in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the special event on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Acceleration Actions on the margins of 2020 High-Level Political Forum on Tuesday, Amitabh Kant said collective action through international cooperation is more relevant and important than ever before in these truly unprecedented times. He told the session that the "One Nation, One Card' initiative is an example of a recent transformative solution by India presently being implemented as a response to the pandemic. "The first half of 2020 has underscored the importance of responsive and adaptive policy making, more than ever before. When challenges are dynamic and unprecedented, peer learning and knowledge exchange are of utmost significance. We are deeply committed to foster this spirit and accelerate progress on the SDG targets by not only focusing on the recovery but by building back better for long term transformation," Kant said. The "One Nation, One Card' initiative ensures right-based access to food supplies and covers over 800 million people at cost as low as 3-5 cents. He added that this is operationalised through beneficiary cards issued by the sub-national governments. "By leveraging the technological capacity meticulously built over the last few years, India is all set to roll out interoperability in making access to the Public Distribution System location independent," Kant said adding that it is a "momentous step to ensure that no one is left behind, especially the inter-state migrants." The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the power of collectivised problem solving, he said. Under the "One Nation-One Ration Card' initiative, eligible beneficiaries would be able to avail their entitled foodgrains under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) from any Fair Price Shop in the country using the same ration card. The Food Ministry aims to implement this facility across the country by March 2021. Kant added that "invigorated and renewed synergy" between the government and the private sector has resulted in over 400,000 PPEs and 220,000 N-95 masks being manufactured in India, every day. "In February this year, we were producing none. This aligns closely with our flagship 'Make in India' approach, through which we aim at becoming a globally competitive manufacturing hub," he said. Meanwhile, India on Monday presented its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the High-Level Political Forum. India's VNR report titled "Decade of Action: Taking SDGs from Global to Local' highlights not only the country's progress on the SDGs, but also captures the inclusive and participatory process followed in its preparation. Kant told the session that India is aggressively expanding its renewable energy programme, increasing the renewable energy capacity by 75 per cent since 2014 and aiming to achieve the ambitious target of 450 GW by 2030. "We have made the global pledge, as part of our Nationally Determined Contributions, to have 40 per cent of cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources," he said, adding that India's renewable energy sector has become a prime destination for global investors, with a potential to attract 10 billion dollars of annual investments. In the global Ease of Doing Business rankings, India has jumped 79 places in the past five years: from 142 in 2014 to 62 in 2019. "Our structural reforms in taxation, FDI regime, and insolvency and bankruptcy have contributed to this improvement," he said. Emphasising that 21st century challenges need 21st century solutions, Kant said the role of innovation is critical in designing solutions for SDG acceleration and building back better. Today, India is home to the third largest start-up ecosystem in the world, with the third largest number of unicorns. "We firmly believe that these disruptions in the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem will accelerate our pace of achieving the SDGs," he said. He also pointed out that the government's Aspirational Districts Programme aims at accelerating transformative socio-economic improvement in 112 districts of the country with relatively greater development challenges. By improving the lives of over 165 million citizens in these districts in terms of health, education, basic infrastructure, agriculture and water, and financial inclusion and skill development, the initiative highlights the efficacy of the cooperative and competitive federalism approach to development, he said. "Sharing SDG acceleration actions and successes will be incomplete without discussing SDG localisation in India. Fostering sub-national peer-learning and competitiveness is the approach we took when we released the world's first government-led sub-national SDG Index in 2018," he said. Kant said the SDG India Index and Dashboard, which annually ranks Indian States based on their SDG performance, has reshaped the SDG framework adoption and localisation discourse in the country. It has resulted in sub-national entities instituting monitoring systems and preparing development strategies aligned to the goals of the 2030 Agenda, which are customised to the local and hyper-local context.

India set to make PDS location independent: NITI Aayog CEO at UN forum

Hagia Sophia was born as a church, then converted into a mosque, a pride of the Ottoman Empire, and later declared into a museum.

In modern times, it was considered a symbol of Turkish secularism.&nbsp;

However, now it is witnessing yet another transformation as it has once again been declared a mosque.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-voices-distress-over-turkeys-hagia-sophia-conversion-to-mosque-312751#:~:text=Pope%20Francis%20said%20Sunday%20he,distressed%2C%22%20the%20pope%20said.">Pope Francis voices distress over Turkey's Hagia Sophia conversion to mosque</a>

On July 24, this monument will open its doors to worshippers as Friday prayers will be held inside this structure.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-president-erdogan-rejects-criticism-over-hagia-sophias-conversion-to-mosque-312589">Turkish President Erdogan rejects criticism over Hagia Sophia's conversion to mosque</a>

This decision has shaken the foundations of Turkey's secular credentials and the world is openly speaking up against it.&nbsp;

However, India has opted to remain silent. This report will tell you why New Delhi needs to take a stand and object to the conversion of the structure as a mosque.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hagia-sophia-conversion-why-india-must-take-a-stand-313101/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Three days ago, Turkey's highest administrative court, unanimously revoked a 1934 cabinet decision, which made the Hagia Sophia a museum.&nbsp;

Later, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree, ordering the conversion of this museum into a mosque.&nbsp;

As the news spread, there was condemnation from many parts of the world, with UNESCO, European Union, Russian Orthodox Church marking their protest.&nbsp;

UNESCO called this decision "regrettable" and a committee of this UN body said they were not informed about this decision. &nbsp;

It now wants Ankara to start a dialogue immediately, otherwise, preservation of this heritage site will be subject to a review.&nbsp;

This suggests that Hagia Sophia may lose its status as a World Heritage Site.&nbsp;

The European Union has also expressed disappointment with its foreign policy chief saying, "The ruling by the Turkish Council of State to overturn Turkey's landmark decisions and Erdogan's decision to place the monument under the management of the religious affairs presidency is regrettable".&nbsp;

Religious bodies are also speaking up like the Russian Orthodox Church, which expressed its "dismay" over Erdogan's decision.&nbsp;

"The concern of millions of Christians has not been heard. The court ruling shows that all calls for the need for extreme delicacy in this matter were ignored," it said.&nbsp;

Even Pope in his short message expressed his disappointment over the decision.&nbsp;

Countries such as the US, France, Russia, Cyprus and Greece have slammed the decision.&nbsp;

The list however doesn't include India.&nbsp;

On the contrary, The Turkish president has never missed an opportunity to criticise India, questioning its secular credentials.&nbsp;

And now when the world is speaking on the undermining of secularism in Turkey, why shouldn't India also join them?

Here are some recent examples of Turkey's approach towards India.

A few months ago, there were communal riots in New Delhi, where people from both communities were killed.&nbsp;

However, for Erdogan, it was the "massacre" of Muslims.&nbsp;

"A country which will fail to make global peace a possibility. A country which calls itself strong because of its large population, but is not," were his words on India.&nbsp;

Erdogan's activism on Kashmir is much-talked and written about.

In the same month of February, the Turkish president travelled to Pakistan and justified Islamabad's cross-border terrorism in Kashmir while addressed a joint session of the Pakistan Parliament.&nbsp;

He also said India is making Kashmiris suffer.&nbsp;

On both these occasions, the Indian foreign ministry came down heavily on the Turkish president.

"These remarks reflect neither an understanding of history nor the conduct of diplomacy...They distort events of the past to advance a narrow-minded view of the present," New Delhi said.&nbsp;

The remarks made by Indian foreign ministry are relevant now too in the context of Hagia Sophia controversy.&nbsp;

The decision to convert this monument into a mosque is "distorting of the past".&nbsp;

Erdogan indeed is advancing a "narrow-minded view of the present".&nbsp;

This is a new shift in Turkey's politics from being secular in nature to an authoritarian Islamic region.&nbsp;

This leaves Erdogan no moral right to point fingers at others.

And India must not remain silent on this issue and a statement or two may go a long way in setting the record straight.&nbsp;

Hagia Sophia was born as a church, then converted into a mosque, a pride of the Ottoman Empire, and later declared into a museum. In modern times, it was considered a symbol of Turkish secularism.

Hagia Sophia was born as a church, then converted into a mosque, a pride of the Ottoman Empire, and later declared into a museum. In modern times, it was considered a symbol of Turkish secularism. However, now it is witnessing yet another transformation as it has once again been declared a mosque. Also read | Pope Francis voices distress over Turkey's Hagia Sophia conversion to mosque On July 24, this monument will open its doors to worshippers as Friday prayers will be held inside this structure. Also read | Turkish President Erdogan rejects criticism over Hagia Sophia's conversion to mosque This decision has shaken the foundations of Turkey's secular credentials and the world is openly speaking up against it. However, India has opted to remain silent. This report will tell you why New Delhi needs to take a stand and object to the conversion of the structure as a mosque. Three days ago, Turkey's highest administrative court, unanimously revoked a 1934 cabinet decision, which made the Hagia Sophia a museum. Later, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree, ordering the conversion of this museum into a mosque. As the news spread, there was condemnation from many parts of the world, with UNESCO, European Union, Russian Orthodox Church marking their protest. UNESCO called this decision "regrettable" and a committee of this UN body said they were not informed about this decision. It now wants Ankara to start a dialogue immediately, otherwise, preservation of this heritage site will be subject to a review. This suggests that Hagia Sophia may lose its status as a World Heritage Site. The European Union has also expressed disappointment with its foreign policy chief saying, "The ruling by the Turkish Council of State to overturn Turkey's landmark decisions and Erdogan's decision to place the monument under the management of the religious affairs presidency is regrettable". Religious bodies are also speaking up like the Russian Orthodox Church, which expressed its "dismay" over Erdogan's decision. "The concern of millions of Christians has not been heard. The court ruling shows that all calls for the need for extreme delicacy in this matter were ignored," it said. Even Pope in his short message expressed his disappointment over the decision. Countries such as the US, France, Russia, Cyprus and Greece have slammed the decision. The list however doesn't include India. On the contrary, The Turkish president has never missed an opportunity to criticise India, questioning its secular credentials. And now when the world is speaking on the undermining of secularism in Turkey, why shouldn't India also join them? Here are some recent examples of Turkey's approach towards India. A few months ago, there were communal riots in New Delhi, where people from both communities were killed. However, for Erdogan, it was the "massacre" of Muslims. "A country which will fail to make global peace a possibility. A country which calls itself strong because of its large population, but is not," were his words on India. Erdogan's activism on Kashmir is much-talked and written about. In the same month of February, the Turkish president travelled to Pakistan and justified Islamabad's cross-border terrorism in Kashmir while addressed a joint session of the Pakistan Parliament. He also said India is making Kashmiris suffer. On both these occasions, the Indian foreign ministry came down heavily on the Turkish president. "These remarks reflect neither an understanding of history nor the conduct of diplomacy...They distort events of the past to advance a narrow-minded view of the present," New Delhi said. The remarks made by Indian foreign ministry are relevant now too in the context of Hagia Sophia controversy. The decision to convert this monument into a mosque is "distorting of the past". Erdogan indeed is advancing a "narrow-minded view of the present". This is a new shift in Turkey's politics from being secular in nature to an authoritarian Islamic region. This leaves Erdogan no moral right to point fingers at others. And India must not remain silent on this issue and a statement or two may go a long way in setting the record straight.

Why India should not remain silent on Hagia Sophia's decision

India on Tuesday crosses 9 Lakh cases of Coronavirus with Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Delhi still being as the hotspots. Though the recovery rate of the nation reaches to around 70%.

India crosses 900,000 COVID-19 cases; Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi continue to remain hotspots

In India, the gold business has been hit by coronavirus pandemic but investment in export gold has seen a massive increase. On the other hand, domestic sales of jewellery exports are not doing great. Watch report. About Channel: WION -The World is One News, examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim to empower people to explore their world. With our Global headquarters in New Delhi, we bring you news on the hour, by the hour. We deliver information that is not biased. We are journalists who are neutral to the core and non-partisan when it comes to the politics of the world. People are tired of biased reportage and we stand for a globalised united world. So for us the World is truly One. Please keep discussions on this channel clean and respectful and refrain from using racist or sexist slurs as well as personal insults. Subscribe to our channel at https://goo.gl/JfY3NI Check out our website: http://www.wionews.com Connect with us on our social media handles: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WIONews Twitter: https://twitter.com/WIONews Follow us on Google News for latest updates Zee News:- https://bit.ly/2Ac5G60 Zee Bussiness:- https://bit.ly/36vI2xa DNA India:- https://bit.ly/2ZDuLRY WION: https://bit.ly/3gnDb5J Zee News Apps : https://bit.ly/ZeeNewsApps

India's jewellery exports plunge: Lockdown affects sales and production

China might be pulling its troops back from the border. But, it continues to spend big on border projects. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China is speeding up the construction of roads near the border.

Gravitas: India vs China | The race to build more roads at the border

A 2018 census to map and work on preserving tiger population in India has made it to the Guinness Book of World Records. Now, this effort is officially the world’s largest wildlife survey being conducted on cameras.

According to data from the All India Tiger Estimation from 2018, around 2,967 tigers exist in India, which amounts to a whopping 75 per cent of the global tiger population.&nbsp;This data was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Global Tiger Day in 2019, which is celebrated to raise awareness about tiger conservation every year on July 29.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tigers-lions-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-new-york-zoo-294346" hreflang="en">Tigers, lions test positive for COVID-19 in New York zoo</a>

The achievement was acknowledged by the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar, who tweeted, "The All India Tiger Estimation is now in the Guinness World Records for being the largest camera trap wildlife survey, a great moment indeed and a shining example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)."

Attainment through resolve

Calling it the achievement based on “sankalp se sidhi” (translates into “attainment through resolve”), the minister claimed that this was attained under the leadership of Modi, whereby the country was able to double the number of tigers way before the target. To be exact, the numbers came to fruition four years before the envisaged plan.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Under the leadership of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, India fulfilled its resolve to double tiger numbers 4 years before the target through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SankalpSeSiddhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SankalpSeSiddhi</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/GWR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GWR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ChnPkCEzUG">pic.twitter.com/ChnPkCEzUG</a>
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1281755194020130819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The website of the Guinness World Records said, "The fourth iteration of the survey - conducted in 2018-19 - was the most comprehensive to date, in terms of both resource and data amassed. Camera traps (outdoor photographic devices fitted with motion sensors that start recording when an animal passes by) were placed in 26,838 locations across 141 different sites and surveyed an effective area of 121,337 square kilometres (46,848 square miles)."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/social-distancing-for-tigers-indian-zoo-takes-measure-over-coronavirus-fears-292338" hreflang="en">Social distancing for tigers? Indian zoo takes measure over coronavirus fears</a>

According to Guinness, the cameras have taken 34,000,000+ pictures of animals in their natural habitats. Through these images, 2,461 unique tigers were identified. "In total, the camera traps captured 34,858,623 photographs of wildlife (76,651 of which were tigers and 51,777 were leopards; the remainder were other native fauna). From these photographs, 2,461 individual tigers (excluding cubs) were identified using stripe-pattern-recognition software."

The conservation project aimed at tigers began as early as 1973, under the name “Project Tiger”, and was heralded by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

A 2018 census to map and work on preserving tiger population in India has made it to the Guinness Book of World Records. Now, this effort is officially the world’s largest wildlife survey being conducted on cameras.

A 2018 census to map and work on preserving tiger population in India has made it to the Guinness Book of World Records. Now, this effort is officially the world’s largest wildlife survey being conducted on cameras. According to data from the All India Tiger Estimation from 2018, around 2,967 tigers exist in India, which amounts to a whopping 75 per cent of the global tiger population. This data was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Global Tiger Day in 2019, which is celebrated to raise awareness about tiger conservation every year on July 29. Also read: Tigers, lions test positive for COVID-19 in New York zoo The achievement was acknowledged by the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar, who tweeted, "The All India Tiger Estimation is now in the Guinness World Records for being the largest camera trap wildlife survey, a great moment indeed and a shining example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)." Attainment through resolve Calling it the achievement based on “sankalp se sidhi” (translates into “attainment through resolve”), the minister claimed that this was attained under the leadership of Modi, whereby the country was able to double the number of tigers way before the target. To be exact, the numbers came to fruition four years before the envisaged plan. Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi, India fulfilled its resolve to double tiger numbers 4 years before the target through #SankalpSeSiddhi. @GWR @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/ChnPkCEzUG — Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) July 11, 2020 × The website of the Guinness World Records said, "The fourth iteration of the survey - conducted in 2018-19 - was the most comprehensive to date, in terms of both resource and data amassed. Camera traps (outdoor photographic devices fitted with motion sensors that start recording when an animal passes by) were placed in 26,838 locations across 141 different sites and surveyed an effective area of 121,337 square kilometres (46,848 square miles)." Also read: Social distancing for tigers? Indian zoo takes measure over coronavirus fears According to Guinness, the cameras have taken 34,000,000+ pictures of animals in their natural habitats. Through these images, 2,461 unique tigers were identified. "In total, the camera traps captured 34,858,623 photographs of wildlife (76,651 of which were tigers and 51,777 were leopards; the remainder were other native fauna). From these photographs, 2,461 individual tigers (excluding cubs) were identified using stripe-pattern-recognition software." The conservation project aimed at tigers began as early as 1973, under the name “Project Tiger”, and was heralded by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

India's tiger census from 2018 is now a Guinness world record!

The novel coronavirus continues to batter the nation and COVID-19 cases are shattering new records every single day. The nation is re-locking as the cases surge. Watch report.

India re-locks as COVID-19 cases surge: Authorities buckle up to fight against coronavirus

India and Canada are closely cooperating on the issue of Khalistani terrorism and separatism even as fringe elements in the latter have been proactive. The cooperation includes sharing classified information on Khalistanis, given the full support Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI has been extending to the terrorist organisation.

India and Canada already have a Framework for Cooperation on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism agreed in February of 2018.

This year Khalistanis have been active especially after&nbsp;they plan to hold the so-called "referendum". Canada with the second&nbsp;largest number of Sikh Population after India has been a ground for ISI backed Khalistanis to get support from the diaspora.

According to Canada's Global News two&nbsp;Canadian Sikhs--Bhagat Singh Brar and Parvkar Singh Dulai have been on the country's no-fly list since 2017 over both being trying to engage in act of terrorism in India. In fact, documents which have been seen by Global News shows Brar working with Pakistan's ISI for a specific attack in 2017.

The document as quoted by Global News says, Brar was involved in “promoting extremism, including the radicalisation of youth, with the aim of achieving Khalistan independence; and attack planning and facilitation, including weapons procurement, to conduct attacks in India"

This comes even as Indian mission in Canada lodged a strong protest with Canadian TV authority --the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission over Montreal based PTN24 channel broadcasting anti-India commentary and glorification of terrorism.

The developments come even as India has acted on Khalistani social media handles and blocking 40 websites of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) which is an unlawful organization under the UAPA,1967.

New Delhi also blacklisted nine&nbsp;Khalistanis in five&nbsp;countries including Canada for being "involved in various acts of terrorism from across the border and from foreign soil" and "trying to revive militancy in Punjab through their anti-national activities and through their support to and involvement in the Khalistan Movement", the home ministry in a statement said a few weeks ago. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canada based Chief of “Khalistan Tiger Force” was among those who have been banned. 
&nbsp;

India and Canada are closely cooperating on the issue of Khalistani terrorism and separatism even as fringe elements in the latter have been proactive. The cooperation includes sharing classified information on Khalistanis, given the full support Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI has been extending to the terrorist organisation.

India and Canada are closely cooperating on the issue of Khalistani terrorism and separatism even as fringe elements in the latter have been proactive. The cooperation includes sharing classified information on Khalistanis, given the full support Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI has been extending to the terrorist organisation. India and Canada already have a Framework for Cooperation on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism agreed in February of 2018. This year Khalistanis have been active especially after they plan to hold the so-called "referendum". Canada with the second largest number of Sikh Population after India has been a ground for ISI backed Khalistanis to get support from the diaspora. According to Canada's Global News two Canadian Sikhs--Bhagat Singh Brar and Parvkar Singh Dulai have been on the country's no-fly list since 2017 over both being trying to engage in act of terrorism in India. In fact, documents which have been seen by Global News shows Brar working with Pakistan's ISI for a specific attack in 2017. The document as quoted by Global News says, Brar was involved in “promoting extremism, including the radicalisation of youth, with the aim of achieving Khalistan independence; and attack planning and facilitation, including weapons procurement, to conduct attacks in India" This comes even as Indian mission in Canada lodged a strong protest with Canadian TV authority --the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission over Montreal based PTN24 channel broadcasting anti-India commentary and glorification of terrorism. The developments come even as India has acted on Khalistani social media handles and blocking 40 websites of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) which is an unlawful organization under the UAPA,1967. New Delhi also blacklisted nine Khalistanis in five countries including Canada for being "involved in various acts of terrorism from across the border and from foreign soil" and "trying to revive militancy in Punjab through their anti-national activities and through their support to and involvement in the Khalistan Movement", the home ministry in a statement said a few weeks ago. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canada based Chief of “Khalistan Tiger Force” was among those who have been banned.

Khalistani terror: India, Canada closely cooperating

Foxconn plans to invest up to $1 billion to expand a factory in southern India where the Taiwanese contract manufacturer assembles Apple iPhones, two sources said.

Sources: Apple supplier Foxconn plans to invest up to $1 billion in India

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday spoke at India Global Week 2020. Watch this video to know what he said.

S. Jaishankar speaks at India Global Week 2020: Post pandemic world will be difficult

Highlighting on his government's priority to save lives from coronavirus and disasters,&nbsp;Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli assured the people on Friday that he will commit himself to protect "national and territorial integrity" in a televised address.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The prime minister's address came at a time when relations between India and Nepal are at a&nbsp;low following Kathmandu's decision to incorporate three Indian territories in its political map.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/land-of-myths-and-hypocrisy-nepal-turns-blind-eye-towards-own-mistakes-312370">Land of myths and hypocrisy: Nepal turns blind eye towards own mistakes</a>

"I will assure all that I will make every effort to consolidate national unity, protect democratic republic, and uplift national pride," he said, reported news agency PTI.

"I will also commit myself to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. My all efforts are directed towards saving the lives of the people and their property during the time of disaster."&nbsp;

As many as 22 people have been killed in multiple landslides in Kaski, Lamjung and Rukum districts in the Nepal's western region.

He added the government will not "deviate" from its duty to protect people from disaster and hunger.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, a crucial meeting to decide the fate of PM Oli was postponed for the fourth time over the situation of floods in the country.&nbsp;

The meeting of the Nepal Communist Party's 45-member powerful Standing Committee was supposed to be held&nbsp;amidst calls for his resignation over his anti-India remarks and style of operating.&nbsp;

Nepal's cable television operators on Thursday evening banned Indian news channels for "objectionable" reporting on the country's PM, except the public broadcaster Doordarshan.&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Highlighting on his government's priority to save lives from coronavirus and disasters, Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli assured the people on Friday that he will commit himself to protect "national and territorial integrity" in a televised address.

Highlighting on his government's priority to save lives from coronavirus and disasters, Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli assured the people on Friday that he will commit himself to protect "national and territorial integrity" in a televised address. Watch | The prime minister's address came at a time when relations between India and Nepal are at a low following Kathmandu's decision to incorporate three Indian territories in its political map. Also read | Land of myths and hypocrisy: Nepal turns blind eye towards own mistakes "I will assure all that I will make every effort to consolidate national unity, protect democratic republic, and uplift national pride," he said, reported news agency PTI. "I will also commit myself to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. My all efforts are directed towards saving the lives of the people and their property during the time of disaster." As many as 22 people have been killed in multiple landslides in Kaski, Lamjung and Rukum districts in the Nepal's western region. He added the government will not "deviate" from its duty to protect people from disaster and hunger. Earlier on Friday, a crucial meeting to decide the fate of PM Oli was postponed for the fourth time over the situation of floods in the country. The meeting of the Nepal Communist Party's 45-member powerful Standing Committee was supposed to be held amidst calls for his resignation over his anti-India remarks and style of operating. Nepal's cable television operators on Thursday evening banned Indian news channels for "objectionable" reporting on the country's PM, except the public broadcaster Doordarshan.

Nepali PM Oli vows to protect 'national, territorial integrity' in televised address

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.

Firing on the border outpost in Kotha area started around 10.30 pm on Friday, drawing effective retaliation by the Border Security Force guarding the IB, they said.

The officials said the exchange of fire between the two sides continued till 4.15 am but there was no report of any casualty or damage on the Indian side.

However, it caused panic among the border residents who were forced to spend the night in underground bunkers, the officials said.

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday.

Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked firing that continued overnight along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday. Firing on the border outpost in Kotha area started around 10.30 pm on Friday, drawing effective retaliation by the Border Security Force guarding the IB, they said. The officials said the exchange of fire between the two sides continued till 4.15 am but there was no report of any casualty or damage on the Indian side. However, it caused panic among the border residents who were forced to spend the night in underground bunkers, the officials said.

Pakistan violates ceasefire along IB in J-K's Kathua

Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has said that if tensions between India & China escalate, The Trump Administration may not back India. Watch some excerpts from an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

Exclusive: The John Bolton Interview

Chinese Envoy to India has released a reconciliatory message when it comes to a relationship of India-China. Watch the report to know what he said.

Chinese Envoy to India | COVID-19 is a common enemy | India-China ties

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful.&nbsp;

The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-chinas-bad-loan-crisis-lead-to-the-collapse-of-its-economy-312044">Will China's bad loan crisis lead to the collapse of its economy?</a>

The all-powerful generals of Myanmar&nbsp;have spoken out about their discontent over China forcing BRI projects on them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-debt-trap-increases-amid-budget-deficit-bri-roadblock-312031">China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock</a>&nbsp;

This is about the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, something similar to CPEC between Beijing and Islamabad.&nbsp;

This project gives China access to the Bay of Bengal and the eastern part of the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

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Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually.&nbsp;

Naypyidaw has now sought New Delhi's help to expedite infrastructure projects with India.&nbsp;

Both nations are working on a transit transportation project that passes through the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram.&nbsp;

The project will open up sea routes and a highway transport system. It will link a seaport in the Indian city of Kolkata to Rakhine and the Chin states in Myanmar.&nbsp;

These projects have angered the dragon and now Beijing is playing dirty.&nbsp;

Reports say Beijing is training rebel groups that could target Indian interests in Myanmar.&nbsp;

WION told you this earlier too.&nbsp;

Naypyidaw has accused Beijing of arming the Arakan Army and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, the rebel groups that operate in the Rakhine state.&nbsp;

Last year, a report had claimed that the armies of India and Myanmar prevented an attack on a transport project. The perpetrator was apparently of the Arakan Army.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that China has been accused of supporting armed groups with weapons and funds in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group.&nbsp;

This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks.

These include payments in&nbsp;a state-owned bank&nbsp;in China and the accounts were suspended after news agency Reuters reported about it.&nbsp;

Earlier also, China has backed insurgent groups, including fuelling United Wa State Army, Myanmar's largest armed ethnic group.&nbsp;

A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme.&nbsp;

That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million.&nbsp;

So, Myanmar is wary of Chinese investments and this is the reason why projects backed by India are getting a push.&nbsp;

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful. The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing.

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful. The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing. Also read | Will China's bad loan crisis lead to the collapse of its economy? The all-powerful generals of Myanmar have spoken out about their discontent over China forcing BRI projects on them. Also read | China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock This is about the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, something similar to CPEC between Beijing and Islamabad. This project gives China access to the Bay of Bengal and the eastern part of the Indian Ocean. × Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China. Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually. Naypyidaw has now sought New Delhi's help to expedite infrastructure projects with India. Both nations are working on a transit transportation project that passes through the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram. The project will open up sea routes and a highway transport system. It will link a seaport in the Indian city of Kolkata to Rakhine and the Chin states in Myanmar. These projects have angered the dragon and now Beijing is playing dirty. Reports say Beijing is training rebel groups that could target Indian interests in Myanmar. WION told you this earlier too. Naypyidaw has accused Beijing of arming the Arakan Army and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, the rebel groups that operate in the Rakhine state. Last year, a report had claimed that the armies of India and Myanmar prevented an attack on a transport project. The perpetrator was apparently of the Arakan Army. This is not the first time that China has been accused of supporting armed groups with weapons and funds in Myanmar. Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group. This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks. These include payments in a state-owned bank in China and the accounts were suspended after news agency Reuters reported about it. Earlier also, China has backed insurgent groups, including fuelling United Wa State Army, Myanmar's largest armed ethnic group. A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme. That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million. So, Myanmar is wary of Chinese investments and this is the reason why projects backed by India are getting a push.

As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India

Amid heightened tensions with India, Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except the public service broadcaster Doordarshan.

Nepal government bans Indian news channels

As concerns grow over Kuwait expat bill that could&nbsp;force out lakhs of Indian workers from the country, India has discussed the matter with the country highlighting the "well regarded" role of Indians.

MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in his weekly presser said," We are closely following the developments in Kuwait. &nbsp;This matter has been discussed between FMs of India and Kuwait. We share excellent bilateral ties which are deeply rooted in people to people linkages."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-expat-quota-bill-in-kuwait-could-force-out-nearly-800000-indians-311168">New expat quota bill in Kuwait could force out nearly 800,000 Indians</a>

"The Indian community in Kuwait is well-regarded in Kuwait and elsewhere in the Gulf region and their contributions are well recognised. We have shared our expectations that Kuwait’s decision will take into account."

The Kuwait expat draft law calls to introduce a quota for expats in the country so as to reduce the percentage of foreigners in the country, now more than locals in the country. The law stood the test of constitutionality a few days ago in the Kuwaiti Parliament. &nbsp;

Indians form the largest expatriate community in Kuwait with over the presence of one million Indian community members. The law aims to put a quota of 15 per cent&nbsp;for Indian expats in the country with respect to the overall population.

The bill, once passed by the Parliament will not only force many Indians out from the west Asian country but will also impact remittances. The worst-impacted will be the southern state of Kerala, from where a lot of people live in Kuwait.

The development comes even as COVID has had a major impact on economies of west Asian countries due to the collapse in crude oil prices. &nbsp;These countries have been trying to reorient the economies.

Recently foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla said Gulf is feeling the impact as cost of energy comes down, as a result, Indians coming back but India sees this "as a temporary phenomenon" as production picks up "they will require the expertise of our expats".

Gulf countries while are not keen on any foreigners coming now amidst COVID-19, are keen to have Indian healthcare workers deal with the ongoing global pandemic.&nbsp;

As concerns grow over Kuwait expat bill that could force out lakhs of Indian workers from the country, India has discussed the matter with the country highlighting the "well regarded" role of Indians.

As concerns grow over Kuwait expat bill that could force out lakhs of Indian workers from the country, India has discussed the matter with the country highlighting the "well regarded" role of Indians. MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in his weekly presser said," We are closely following the developments in Kuwait. This matter has been discussed between FMs of India and Kuwait. We share excellent bilateral ties which are deeply rooted in people to people linkages." Also read | New expat quota bill in Kuwait could force out nearly 800,000 Indians "The Indian community in Kuwait is well-regarded in Kuwait and elsewhere in the Gulf region and their contributions are well recognised. We have shared our expectations that Kuwait’s decision will take into account." The Kuwait expat draft law calls to introduce a quota for expats in the country so as to reduce the percentage of foreigners in the country, now more than locals in the country. The law stood the test of constitutionality a few days ago in the Kuwaiti Parliament. Indians form the largest expatriate community in Kuwait with over the presence of one million Indian community members. The law aims to put a quota of 15 per cent for Indian expats in the country with respect to the overall population. The bill, once passed by the Parliament will not only force many Indians out from the west Asian country but will also impact remittances. The worst-impacted will be the southern state of Kerala, from where a lot of people live in Kuwait. The development comes even as COVID has had a major impact on economies of west Asian countries due to the collapse in crude oil prices. These countries have been trying to reorient the economies. Recently foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla said Gulf is feeling the impact as cost of energy comes down, as a result, Indians coming back but India sees this "as a temporary phenomenon" as production picks up "they will require the expertise of our expats". Gulf countries while are not keen on any foreigners coming now amidst COVID-19, are keen to have Indian healthcare workers deal with the ongoing global pandemic.

Kuwait expat quota Bill: New Delhi shares its expectations, highlights role of Indian community

Amid heightened tensions with India, Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except the public service broadcaster Doordarshan.

Nepali cable operators told news agency ANI that the signals of Indian news channels have been taken off from the country.

A Nepali government spokesperson said that they are exploring legal, political, and diplomatic options to curb the "misinformation" being spread about Nepal by the Indian media.&nbsp;

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The news coming from Indian media against our PM and government after publication of new Map is condemnable. We completely reject their fabricated &amp; fake reports. We urge them to respect Nepali government &amp; people's unified position on our sovereignty &amp; national independence.
— Rajan Bhattarai (@Rajanktm) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rajanktm/status/1281165533040111616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Rajan Bhattarai, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister of Nepal tweeted that the news against Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli by Indian media and New Delhi after Kathmandu issuing new map is "condemnable".&nbsp;

"We completely reject their fabricated and fake reports. We urge them to respect Nepali government and people's unified position on our sovereignty and national independence," he added in the tweet.&nbsp;

Reportedly, news channels from China and Pakistan are being broadcast, but New Delhi has been sidelined.&nbsp;

The tensions between both Asian neighbours rose after Kathmandu approved a new map which included three Indian territories in their region.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid heightened tensions with India, Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except the public service broadcaster Doordarshan. Nepali cable operators told news agency ANI that the signals of Indian news channels have been taken off from the country.

Amid heightened tensions with India, Nepal has banned all Indian news channels, except the public service broadcaster Doordarshan. Nepali cable operators told news agency ANI that the signals of Indian news channels have been taken off from the country. A Nepali government spokesperson said that they are exploring legal, political, and diplomatic options to curb the "misinformation" being spread about Nepal by the Indian media. The news coming from Indian media against our PM and government after publication of new Map is condemnable. We completely reject their fabricated & fake reports. We urge them to respect Nepali government & people's unified position on our sovereignty & national independence. — Rajan Bhattarai (@Rajanktm) July 9, 2020 × Earlier, Rajan Bhattarai, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister of Nepal tweeted that the news against Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli by Indian media and New Delhi after Kathmandu issuing new map is "condemnable". "We completely reject their fabricated and fake reports. We urge them to respect Nepali government and people's unified position on our sovereignty and national independence," he added in the tweet. Reportedly, news channels from China and Pakistan are being broadcast, but New Delhi has been sidelined. The tensions between both Asian neighbours rose after Kathmandu approved a new map which included three Indian territories in their region.

Nepal bans Indian news channels; only Doordarshan remains on-air

WION has learned that Chinese troops have now pulled back from two points at Pangong Tso.WION's Palki Sharma brings you an update on the India-China standoff.

Gravitas: India-China standoff | Chinese troops pull back from 2 points at Pangong Tso

In major signs of tensions easing at LAC the disengagement between India and China has been completed from the hot springs at the Galwan valley in Ladakh. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: PLA pulling back from finger area, India-China begins disengagement process

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