The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak. And a disappointing reality has come to fore, according to which poaching incidents in certain South Asian countries rose during the lockdown period.

The poaching cases jumped sharply in India, Nepal and Pakistan, and Bangladesh was the only exception that saw a decline in illegal hunting of animals in the lockdown period, reports DW.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ministers-hit-with-virus-as-pm-imran-refuses-to-impose-strict-lockdown-311219">Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown</a>

The report says Pakistan and Nepal confirmed a rise in the poaching of birds and endangered species from April to May this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-violence-pose-serious-challenges-to-afghan-peace-process-ghani-311350">Taliban violence pose 'serious challenges' to Afghan peace process: Ghani</a>

Local forest officials in Baluchistan province said the poaching of birds had shot up as the area was an important resting point for migratory birds returning to Siberia from India.&nbsp;

In Nepal, six musk deer were found dead in the Sangarmatha National Park, in what is seen as one of the worst poaching incidents.&nbsp;

Various regions in India reported a spike in poaching cases and wild animals, leopards, desert antelopes, and rhinos were targetted, the report added.&nbsp;

A one-horned rhino was shot down in the Kaziranga National Park, in northeastern India.

Despite the government's efforts to curb poaching activities, these remain an attractive business for hunters and officials believe since economic activities have taken a hit due to lockdown restrictions, illegal hunting is on a rise.&nbsp;

Poaching also poses health risks to humans, causing diseases from wild animals.&nbsp;

"There is a risk of zoonotic diseases spreading through these animals, especially the ones being used for meat. The more you tamper with nature, the more chances there are of spreading diseases," Latika Nath, author and wildlife conservationist, said.&nbsp;

The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak.

The South Asian region is battling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus and no positive trends have emerged so far. Several countries under this region were or are still under strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak. And a disappointing reality has come to fore, according to which poaching incidents in certain South Asian countries rose during the lockdown period. The poaching cases jumped sharply in India, Nepal and Pakistan, and Bangladesh was the only exception that saw a decline in illegal hunting of animals in the lockdown period, reports DW. Also read | Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown The report says Pakistan and Nepal confirmed a rise in the poaching of birds and endangered species from April to May this year. Also read | Taliban violence pose 'serious challenges' to Afghan peace process: Ghani Local forest officials in Baluchistan province said the poaching of birds had shot up as the area was an important resting point for migratory birds returning to Siberia from India. In Nepal, six musk deer were found dead in the Sangarmatha National Park, in what is seen as one of the worst poaching incidents. Various regions in India reported a spike in poaching cases and wild animals, leopards, desert antelopes, and rhinos were targetted, the report added. A one-horned rhino was shot down in the Kaziranga National Park, in northeastern India. Despite the government's efforts to curb poaching activities, these remain an attractive business for hunters and officials believe since economic activities have taken a hit due to lockdown restrictions, illegal hunting is on a rise. Poaching also poses health risks to humans, causing diseases from wild animals. "There is a risk of zoonotic diseases spreading through these animals, especially the ones being used for meat. The more you tamper with nature, the more chances there are of spreading diseases," Latika Nath, author and wildlife conservationist, said.

South Asian countries report rise in poaching cases during coronavirus lockdowns

Amid a spurt in coronavirus cases, the government on Thursday said India has not yet reached the community transmission stage of COVID-19 and asserted that there have been localised outbreaks in some geographical areas.

The Centre's assertion came on a day India registered a record single-day surge of 24,879 COVID-19 cases, taking the caseload to 7,67,296.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-the-highest-single-day-spike-of-over-24000-cases-311834">India reports the highest single-day spike of over 24000 cases</a>

The death toll climbed to 21,129 with 487 new fatalities, the updated data at 8 am showed.

Asked if India has entered the community transmission phase, Rajesh Bhushan, Officer on Special Duty in the Union Health ministry said, "Even today, the health minister (Harsh Vardhan) clearly said after the GoM that India has not reached the stage of community transmission. In some geographical areas, there have been localised outbreaks.

"We should not forget that in our country, 49 districts alone account for 80 per cent of COVID-19 cases. In a country of more than 733 districts, if 49 districts account for 80 per cent cases, then it is not justified to talk about community transmission," he said at a press briefing.

Wherever there are active cases, if the prescribed protocol is followed, in three days close contacts of active cases can be traced and tracked, he said.

"So in such a situation in which you can trace and track close contacts of active cases, talking about community transmission is not justified," Bhushan asserted.

He said India's COVID-19 cases and deaths per million population are amongst the lowest in the world.

On an average, India is testing more than 2.6 lakh samples per day for COVID-19, an ICMR official said at the briefing, asserting that testing has been ramped up in the country in a big way.

COVID-19 recovered cases are 1.75 times that of active cases, Bhushan said.

People over 60 years account for 53 per cent of India's COVID-19 deaths, he said.

Asked about a WHO spokesperson saying that there are indications that the virus may be airborne, Bhushan said, "We are keeping abreast with the information coming out of WHO headquarters on this particular aspect, but you would all appreciate and realise that even during the initial stages of the outbreak, we and the PM had repeatedly emphasised 'do-gaz doori' (Two-metre distance).

"So this concept protects you from small droplets that may remain suspended in air for longer period of time." 
It is an evolving and dynamic situation, he added.&nbsp;

Amid a spurt in coronavirus cases, the government on Thursday said India has not yet reached the community transmission stage of COVID-19 and asserted that there have been localised outbreaks in some geographical areas.

Amid a spurt in coronavirus cases, the government on Thursday said India has not yet reached the community transmission stage of COVID-19 and asserted that there have been localised outbreaks in some geographical areas. The Centre's assertion came on a day India registered a record single-day surge of 24,879 COVID-19 cases, taking the caseload to 7,67,296. Also read | India reports the highest single-day spike of over 24000 cases The death toll climbed to 21,129 with 487 new fatalities, the updated data at 8 am showed. Asked if India has entered the community transmission phase, Rajesh Bhushan, Officer on Special Duty in the Union Health ministry said, "Even today, the health minister (Harsh Vardhan) clearly said after the GoM that India has not reached the stage of community transmission. In some geographical areas, there have been localised outbreaks. "We should not forget that in our country, 49 districts alone account for 80 per cent of COVID-19 cases. In a country of more than 733 districts, if 49 districts account for 80 per cent cases, then it is not justified to talk about community transmission," he said at a press briefing. Wherever there are active cases, if the prescribed protocol is followed, in three days close contacts of active cases can be traced and tracked, he said. "So in such a situation in which you can trace and track close contacts of active cases, talking about community transmission is not justified," Bhushan asserted. He said India's COVID-19 cases and deaths per million population are amongst the lowest in the world. On an average, India is testing more than 2.6 lakh samples per day for COVID-19, an ICMR official said at the briefing, asserting that testing has been ramped up in the country in a big way. COVID-19 recovered cases are 1.75 times that of active cases, Bhushan said. People over 60 years account for 53 per cent of India's COVID-19 deaths, he said. Asked about a WHO spokesperson saying that there are indications that the virus may be airborne, Bhushan said, "We are keeping abreast with the information coming out of WHO headquarters on this particular aspect, but you would all appreciate and realise that even during the initial stages of the outbreak, we and the PM had repeatedly emphasised 'do-gaz doori' (Two-metre distance). "So this concept protects you from small droplets that may remain suspended in air for longer period of time." It is an evolving and dynamic situation, he added.

India not reached stage of coronavirus community transmission: Health ministry

Indian police have arrested 12 LG Polymers officials, including its South Korean chief executive, an officer said on Wednesday, two months after a gas leak at the company's south India chemical plant killed 12.

The arrests were made under a case of culpable homicide filed against the company's South Korean parent, LG Chem Ltd, when the leak occurred in May, police commissioner Rajiv Kumar Meena said.

"A total of twelve members including the CEO and two directors were arrested on Tuesday evening," Meena, the top officer in the port city of Visakhapatnam where the plant is located, said.

Among those arrested were two directors, one of whom was a South Korean, Meena said. 
Toxic styrene gas leaked from the chemical plant in the early hours of May 7, choking many people who were sleeping.

This week, a government-appointed committee recommended that the plant be shifted away from human habitation and called for action against the top employees. It said LG Chem had been negligent and warning systems were not working.

The company did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment.

Meena said three government officials had also been suspended for negligence.

Indian police have arrested 12 LG Polymers officials, including its South Korean chief executive, an officer said on Wednesday, two months after a gas leak at the company's south India chemical plant killed 12.

Indian police have arrested 12 LG Polymers officials, including its South Korean chief executive, an officer said on Wednesday, two months after a gas leak at the company's south India chemical plant killed 12. The arrests were made under a case of culpable homicide filed against the company's South Korean parent, LG Chem Ltd, when the leak occurred in May, police commissioner Rajiv Kumar Meena said. "A total of twelve members including the CEO and two directors were arrested on Tuesday evening," Meena, the top officer in the port city of Visakhapatnam where the plant is located, said. Among those arrested were two directors, one of whom was a South Korean, Meena said. Toxic styrene gas leaked from the chemical plant in the early hours of May 7, choking many people who were sleeping. This week, a government-appointed committee recommended that the plant be shifted away from human habitation and called for action against the top employees. It said LG Chem had been negligent and warning systems were not working. The company did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. Meena said three government officials had also been suspended for negligence.

India arrests South Korean CEO, 11 others for gas leak at LG Polymers

Missing TikTok? Here are the top 6 alternatives in India!

Highlighting how Pakistan continues to support terror amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India has said that Pakistan must introspect upon why it is universally acknowledged the international epicenter of terrorism and the best safe haven for terrorists.

WION Dispatch: India lists out Pakistani role in terror attacks | Slams Pak at UN

India's decision to ramp up its border infrastructure has unsettled China. A new report has claimed that India's spending on LAC roads has tripled in the last four years. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more about India's strategy to protect the borders.

Gravitas: Ladakh standoff, Inside India's border strategy

More than 60 days after the standoff began, Chinese troops have begun stepping back. A complete withdrawal is still work in progress. For 70 years, India and China have failed to clearly define the line of actual control. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what India needs to do to permanently settle the situation at the border.

Gravitas: India-China standoff, Chinese troops step back

In Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a strong message against China's 'expansionism'. With his visit, the Prime Minister has signaled that he is willing to take a more hands on approach to tackle the China challenge. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how PM Modi has made the fight against China a personal one.

Gravitas: Modi in Ladakh | Prime Minister makes clash a personal battle

WION's website - wionews.com has been blocked on the Chinese internet. WION has reported relentlessly on the attempts by Chinese officials to cover up the outbreak of the Coronavirus in the early days. In response, Chinese diplomats have blocked WION and a Chinese firm targeted WION's reportage. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more about China's uneasy relationship with the free press.

Gravitas: China blocks access to WION website after India bans 59 Chinese apps

The India-China standoff is not yet over. New Delhi's China's challenge is expected to be a long-drawn battle. The decision to ban Chinese apps is being seen as the beginning of India's retaliation. WION's Palki Sharma tells you what options does India has in its playbook to counter the dragon.

Gravitas: Here is how India can counter the dragon

China's attempt to spin the story of the Ladakh standoff in its favour has boomeranged. WION's palki Sharma tells you how a broadcast from the Chinese State Television could actually help India.

Gravitas: Ladakh standoff | China's propaganda boomerangs

2 years ago, Dalai Lama's event was cancelled in New Delhi. But amid the India-China standoff in Ladakh, Indian leaders extended birthday greetings to the Dalai Lama. Is India taking a new approach towards Tibet?

Gravitas: Is India taking a new approach towards Tibet?

the road transport and highways ministry has increased four-fold the allocation for maintenance of border roads managed by the Border Road Organisation (BRO) from Rs 30 crore to Rs 120 crore for this year.

Is China worried by India's push to build border infrastructure?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it.

According to local authorities, Sarith Kumar, a former PRO at the consulate and one Swapna Suresh, working with Kerala govt IT Company were involved in the gold smuggling racket.&nbsp;A major political row has broken in Kerala after customs seized the diplomatic baggage containing gold worth crores a few days ago.&nbsp;

A statement by the UAE mission in Delhi said, "The authorities have stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. We remain committed to cooperating with Indian authorities in getting to the root of the crime."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-gold-smuggling-ias-officer-m-sivasankar-removed-from-it-secretary-post-311388" hreflang="en">Kerala gold smuggling: IAS officer M Sivasankar removed from IT secretary post</a>

The mission pointed out that the, "employee in question was fired for misconduct long preceding this incident. At this time, it appears that this individual exploited his knowledge of the mission’s channels to engage in criminal activity."

The UAE Embassy has also "utterly condemned&nbsp;the attempted misuse of diplomatic channels by an individual engaged in smuggling activity".

Swapna Suresh&nbsp;was working as a manager at the Kerala State Information technology infrastructure limited company and was hired by IAS official M Sivasankar. Sivasankar, principal secretary to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has been now removed and has been replaced by Mir Muhammad Ali. The opposition in the state is now seeking a wider probe into the matter.&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched an investigation into the Kerala smuggling case to find out who was trying to smuggle gold to India under its consulate's name in the southern state and had sent the cargo addressed to it. According to local authorities, Sarith Kumar, a former PRO at the consulate and one Swapna Suresh, working with Kerala govt IT Company were involved in the gold smuggling racket. A major political row has broken in Kerala after customs seized the diplomatic baggage containing gold worth crores a few days ago. A statement by the UAE mission in Delhi said, "The authorities have stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. We remain committed to cooperating with Indian authorities in getting to the root of the crime." Also read: Kerala gold smuggling: IAS officer M Sivasankar removed from IT secretary post The mission pointed out that the, "employee in question was fired for misconduct long preceding this incident. At this time, it appears that this individual exploited his knowledge of the mission’s channels to engage in criminal activity." The UAE Embassy has also "utterly condemned the attempted misuse of diplomatic channels by an individual engaged in smuggling activity". Swapna Suresh was working as a manager at the Kerala State Information technology infrastructure limited company and was hired by IAS official M Sivasankar. Sivasankar, principal secretary to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has been now removed and has been replaced by Mir Muhammad Ali. The opposition in the state is now seeking a wider probe into the matter.

Kerala smuggling case: UAE launches investigation; says culprits won't be spared

The number of coronavirus cases in India has now crossed the 7 lakh mark with 22,252 new cases. Watch report.

India surge in COVID-19 cases: 467 deaths in last 24-hrs, COVID-19 death toll at 20,160

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre and Maharashtra government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking to declare the services rendered by lawyers as "essential services" amid the coronavirus lockdown. 
 
A division bench of Justice AA Sayed and Justice MS Karnik asked the State and Central government to file their affidavits on the matter within a period of two weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-15-lakh-people-quarantined-in-mumbai-after-coronavirus-contact-tracing-bmc-311379" hreflang="en">Over 15 lakh people quarantined in Mumbai after coronavirus contact-tracing: BMC</a> 
 
The PIL, filed by a group of three lawyers advocates Chirag Chanani, Sumit Khanna, and Vinay Kumar, sought to declare the services rendered by lawyers as "essential services" to enable them to travel by local trains. 
 
The plea asked why the authorities concerned had not included lawyers in the list of essential service categories, which have been permitted to travel by local train for performing their duties, despite legal service being considered to be essential services.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-mumbai-overtakes-china-in-covid-19-deaths-and-cases-311330" hreflang="en">Now, Mumbai overtakes China in COVID-19 deaths and cases</a> 
 
Advocate Shyam Dewani, representing the three lawyers, submitted before the high court that the practicing lawyers are residing in suburban localities of Mumbai city but having their places of work in South Mumbai. 
 
"So in connection with attending their offices and various courts in Mumbai city, they are required to travel a lot, however, they are being restricted from commuting by local train, as the legal services rendered by lawyers are not considered as essential services by the circular issued by the Divisional Railway Managers office," the plea said. 
 
It said that there is no reason to deprive them of using local trains when they are required to do the same to attend the courts and render their services in assisting the cause of justice. 
 
The plea said that the petitioners do not have the facilities of private vehicles and now that physical working of courts, etc have started, they are not in a position to effectively render assistance to the cause of justice. 
 
"Due to a lack of infrastructure, matters in the subordinate courts are being taken up through physical appearances, and for that purpose members of the judiciary and staff of courts are permitted to travel through local trains but most of the lawyers practicing in those courts, do not have facilities at their command to travel and earn their livelihood," the plea said.&nbsp;

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre and Maharashtra government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking to declare the services rendered by lawyers as "essential services" amid the coronavirus lockdown.

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre and Maharashtra government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking to declare the services rendered by lawyers as "essential services" amid the coronavirus lockdown. A division bench of Justice AA Sayed and Justice MS Karnik asked the State and Central government to file their affidavits on the matter within a period of two weeks. Also read: Over 15 lakh people quarantined in Mumbai after coronavirus contact-tracing: BMC The PIL, filed by a group of three lawyers advocates Chirag Chanani, Sumit Khanna, and Vinay Kumar, sought to declare the services rendered by lawyers as "essential services" to enable them to travel by local trains. The plea asked why the authorities concerned had not included lawyers in the list of essential service categories, which have been permitted to travel by local train for performing their duties, despite legal service being considered to be essential services. Also read: Now, Mumbai overtakes China in COVID-19 deaths and cases Advocate Shyam Dewani, representing the three lawyers, submitted before the high court that the practicing lawyers are residing in suburban localities of Mumbai city but having their places of work in South Mumbai. "So in connection with attending their offices and various courts in Mumbai city, they are required to travel a lot, however, they are being restricted from commuting by local train, as the legal services rendered by lawyers are not considered as essential services by the circular issued by the Divisional Railway Managers office," the plea said. It said that there is no reason to deprive them of using local trains when they are required to do the same to attend the courts and render their services in assisting the cause of justice. The plea said that the petitioners do not have the facilities of private vehicles and now that physical working of courts, etc have started, they are not in a position to effectively render assistance to the cause of justice. "Due to a lack of infrastructure, matters in the subordinate courts are being taken up through physical appearances, and for that purpose members of the judiciary and staff of courts are permitted to travel through local trains but most of the lawyers practicing in those courts, do not have facilities at their command to travel and earn their livelihood," the plea said.

Bombay HC seeks centre's response to PIL seeking inclusion of lawyers in essential services

The border standoff between India and China happened more than a month ago. Dubbed as the “bloodiest” standoff in the longest time, it had stirred up new tensions between the countries, before both mutually agreed to disengage on Monday.

India had recently begun work on improving its border infrastructure. As part of this, India built new roads, highways, and bridges. This was done for the Indian forces to be more watchful of the neighbour.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/india-china-standoff-galwan-pullback-after-nsa-dovals-two-hour-phone-call-with-chinese-foreign-minister-311064" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: Galwan pullback after NSA Doval's two-hour phone call with Chinese foreign minister</a>

Over the last four years, India’s spending on the roads being constructed along the Line of Actual Control has tripled. Even after the standoff, the work has continued.

The Darbuk Shayok Daulat Beg Oldie road could have allegedly been the key factor that led to the brawl between both the sides. The road runs parallel to the LAC, and India has spent almost 20 years building the road - an all weather path, which connects to Leh.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ladakh-standoff-inside-indias-border-strategy-311236/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Why is China worried? 

The DSDBO highway provides the Indian military access to a section of the Tibet Xijiang highway that passes through Aksai Chin. India has been building feeder roads along this highway, one of which branches off towards the Galwan Valley, where the conflict happened.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/india-china-standoff-pm-narendra-modis-ladakh-visit-gives-a-clear-message-to-beijing-310522" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing</a>

Under the Modi government, India’s spending on LAC roads has tripled. rom Rs 4,600 crores in 2016 to almost Rs 12 thousand crores in 2020. The money has gone towards building more roads, bridges and tunnels.

The DSDBO road is essential for India’s armed forces, as it connects Leh to Daulat Beg Oldi, which is a historic campsite and a military base, and has the world’s highest airstrip.

Additionally, India had created a military outpost, which is manned by soldiers from the Army and the Paramilitary Indo-Tibetan Border Force, which carry out patrolling across the LAC.

The border standoff between India and China happened more than a month ago. Dubbed as the “bloodiest” standoff in the longest time, it had stirred up new tensions between the countries, before both mutually agreed to disengage on Monday.

The border standoff between India and China happened more than a month ago. Dubbed as the “bloodiest” standoff in the longest time, it had stirred up new tensions between the countries, before both mutually agreed to disengage on Monday. India had recently begun work on improving its border infrastructure. As part of this, India built new roads, highways, and bridges. This was done for the Indian forces to be more watchful of the neighbour. Also read: India-China standoff: Galwan pullback after NSA Doval's two-hour phone call with Chinese foreign minister Over the last four years, India’s spending on the roads being constructed along the Line of Actual Control has tripled. Even after the standoff, the work has continued. The Darbuk Shayok Daulat Beg Oldie road could have allegedly been the key factor that led to the brawl between both the sides. The road runs parallel to the LAC, and India has spent almost 20 years building the road - an all weather path, which connects to Leh. Why is China worried? The DSDBO highway provides the Indian military access to a section of the Tibet Xijiang highway that passes through Aksai Chin. India has been building feeder roads along this highway, one of which branches off towards the Galwan Valley, where the conflict happened. Also read: India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing Under the Modi government, India’s spending on LAC roads has tripled. rom Rs 4,600 crores in 2016 to almost Rs 12 thousand crores in 2020. The money has gone towards building more roads, bridges and tunnels. The DSDBO road is essential for India’s armed forces, as it connects Leh to Daulat Beg Oldi, which is a historic campsite and a military base, and has the world’s highest airstrip. Additionally, India had created a military outpost, which is manned by soldiers from the Army and the Paramilitary Indo-Tibetan Border Force, which carry out patrolling across the LAC.

What triggered the India-China standoff, and why is Beijing irked?

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill.

The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youll-be-punished-if-you-dont-wear-a-mask-in-kuwait-and-qatar-299295">You'll be punished if you don't wear a mask in Kuwait and Qatar</a>

The draft of the bill said Indians, country's largest foreign community, must not exceed 15 per cent of Kuwait's population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-bharat-operation-177-indians-brought-back-from-kuwait">Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait</a>

The bill that will now be sent to an expert committee to study the legislation, if approved will impact 800,000 Indians who currently reside in the Gulf country.&nbsp;

&nbsp;At least 1.45 million Indians currently reside in Kuwait.&nbsp;

It has also called for bringing down the number of Egyptians residing in the country to 10 per cent, Times of India reported.

After India, Egypt is the second-largest expat community in Kuwait.&nbsp;

Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, last month, said the nation would reduce expat numbers to 30 per cent of the country's population, which is presently 70 per cent, impacting 2.5 million people.

Already, Kuwaiti MPs have asked the government to replace all expat jobs in the government sector&nbsp;within one year.&nbsp;

In June, Kuwait announced the ban on expatriates working in state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and its subsidiaries for the year 2020-21.

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill. The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business.

As many as 800,000 Indians could be forced to leave Kuwait after the country's National Assembly has approved the draft expat quota bill. The National Assembly's legal and legislative committee who approved the draft said the bill "is in line with the Kuwaiti constitution and laws", reported Gulf Business. Also read | You'll be punished if you don't wear a mask in Kuwait and Qatar The draft of the bill said Indians, country's largest foreign community, must not exceed 15 per cent of Kuwait's population. Also read | Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait The bill that will now be sent to an expert committee to study the legislation, if approved will impact 800,000 Indians who currently reside in the Gulf country. At least 1.45 million Indians currently reside in Kuwait. It has also called for bringing down the number of Egyptians residing in the country to 10 per cent, Times of India reported. After India, Egypt is the second-largest expat community in Kuwait. Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, last month, said the nation would reduce expat numbers to 30 per cent of the country's population, which is presently 70 per cent, impacting 2.5 million people. Already, Kuwaiti MPs have asked the government to replace all expat jobs in the government sector within one year. In June, Kuwait announced the ban on expatriates working in state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and its subsidiaries for the year 2020-21.

Kuwait nods draft bill that will push 800,000 Indians out of the country

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory.

The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries' contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-triggered-the-india-china-standoff-and-why-is-beijing-irked-311176" hreflang="en">What triggered the India-China standoff, and why is Beijing irked?</a>

"Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash.

India's industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment.

The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns.

The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review.

One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-disengagement-begins-at-three-flashpoints-311179" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: Disengagement begins at three flashpoints</a>

Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy &amp; Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India.&nbsp;

"Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said.

Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance's TikTok and Tencent's&nbsp;WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses' expansion plans for the South Asian market.

Chinese companies' existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The Indian government is reviewing around 50 investment proposals involving Chinese companies under a new screening policy, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Under new rules announced by India in April, all investments by entities based in neighbouring countries need to be approved by the Indian government, whether for new or additional funding. China is the biggest of these investors and the rules drew criticism from Chinese investors and Beijing, which called the policy discriminatory. The new investment rules were aimed at curbing opportunistic takeovers during the coronavirus outbreak. However, industry executives say a deterioration in bilateral relations since a clash along the countries' contested border last month, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, could further delay approvals. Also read: What triggered the India-China standoff, and why is Beijing irked? "Various clearances are required. We are being a bit more cautious as one would imagine," said a senior Indian government official in New Delhi, when asked about the impact on investment applications since the border clash. India's industries department under the commerce ministry, which drafted the new policy, did not respond to a request for comment. The sources declined to name the companies whose investments are pending approvals, due to confidentiality concerns. The official, and two other sources, said about 40-50 applications involving funding from Chinese investors have been filed since the rule change and are currently under review. One of the sources said that multiple Indian government agencies, including the Indian consulates in China, have been communicating with investors and their representatives to seek clarifications on the proposals. Also read: India-China standoff: Disengagement begins at three flashpoints Alok Sonker, a partner at Indian law firm Krishnamurthy & Co, said at least 10 Chinese clients had sought his advice in recent weeks for investing in India, but were waiting for more clarity on the policy outlook in India. "Uncertainty in timelines for the investment approval is dissuading parties, both Indian and Chinese, from proceeding with business as usual," Sonker said. Last week India banned 59, mostly Chinese, mobile apps including Bytedance's TikTok and Tencent's WeChat, in its strongest move yet targeting China in the online space since the border crisis erupted last month. The move has potentially dented big Chinese businesses' expansion plans for the South Asian market. Chinese companies' existing and planned investments in India stand at more than $26 billion, research group Brookings said in March.

India reviewing around 50 investment proposals from Chinese firms

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday in a letter to Union Higher Education Secretary permitted conduct of exams by universities and institutions. 
 
The examinations are to be conducted in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved by the Health Ministry to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/many-states-have-lower-coronavirus-rate-than-national-average-of-673-says-government-311088" hreflang="en">Many states have lower coronavirus rate than national average of 6.73%, says government</a> 
 
A MHA release on Monday said that the ministry has written a letter to the Union Higher Education Secretary regarding conduct of examinations by universities. 
 
"Ministry of Home Affairs, in a letter to Union Higher Education Secretary, today permitted conduct of examinations by Universities and Institutions. The final term examinations are to be compulsorily conducted as per the UGC guidelines on examinations and academic calendar for the universities and as per the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved by the Union Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare," the release said.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday in a letter to Union Higher Education Secretary permitted conduct of exams by universities and institutions. The examinations are to be conducted in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved by the Health Ministry to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday in a letter to Union Higher Education Secretary permitted conduct of exams by universities and institutions. The examinations are to be conducted in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved by the Health Ministry to contain the spread of COVID-19. Also read: Many states have lower coronavirus rate than national average of 6.73%, says government A MHA release on Monday said that the ministry has written a letter to the Union Higher Education Secretary regarding conduct of examinations by universities. "Ministry of Home Affairs, in a letter to Union Higher Education Secretary, today permitted conduct of examinations by Universities and Institutions. The final term examinations are to be compulsorily conducted as per the UGC guidelines on examinations and academic calendar for the universities and as per the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare," the release said.

Home Ministry allows universities, institutions to conduct exams; final year exam compulsory

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister and State Councilor Wang Yi. The main focus was on the full and enduring restoration of peace and order and to work together to avoid such incidents in the future. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: India-China border tensions, India-China to work together on peace

India is seeking to amend the Disabilities Act to improve ease of doing business in the the country.&nbsp;The law, passed as “Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act” in December 2016 and gave pilot rights to the disabled across the country.

Under Section 92 of this act, any person who “intentionally insults or intimidates with intent to humiliate a person with disability in any place within public view” may be “punishable with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to five years and with fine”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/apple-proposes-new-emojis-to-represent-people-with-disabilities-126312" hreflang="en">Apple proposes new emojis to represent people with disabilities</a>

In June 2020, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reached out to over seven NGOs with a letter titled “Decriminalisation of Minor Offences For Improving Business Sentiment And Unclogging Court Processes – Amendment in RPwD Act, 2016”. A while later, the letter appeared on the Ministry’s website, with a cap of 10 days to receive feedback.

According to the letter, the government intends to do away with the criminalisation of “minor offences”.&nbsp; The letter said, “decriminalisation of minor offences is one of the thrust areas of the government. The risk of imprisonment for actions or omissions that aren’t necessarily fraudulent or the outcome of malafide intent is a big hurdle in attracting investments. The ensuing uncertainty in legal processes and the time taken for resolution in the courts hurts ease of doing business. Criminal penalties including imprisonment for minor offences act as deterrents, and this is perceived as one of the major reasons impacting business sentiment and hindering investments both from domestic and foreign investors.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/india-lok-sabha-passes-rights-of-persons-with-disabilities-bill-10233" hreflang="en">India: Lok Sabha passes Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill</a>

In essence, the government wants to make amendments solely taking into account the ease of doing business, and to invite foreign investment, amid the Make In India and Go Local trends that have picked up steam after the Indo-China brawl at the border.

The proposed Section 95A of the Act would effectively allow Chief or State Commissioners to withdraw cases after the approval of the defender, or the aggrieved.

The move has drawn ire from disability activist groups, 125 of whom have written to the Ministry expressing disapproval.

India is seeking to amend the Disabilities Act to improve ease of doing business in the the country. The law, passed as “Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act” in December 2016 and gave pilot rights to the disabled across the country.

India is seeking to amend the Disabilities Act to improve ease of doing business in the the country. The law, passed as “Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act” in December 2016 and gave pilot rights to the disabled across the country. Under Section 92 of this act, any person who “intentionally insults or intimidates with intent to humiliate a person with disability in any place within public view” may be “punishable with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to five years and with fine”. Also read: Apple proposes new emojis to represent people with disabilities In June 2020, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reached out to over seven NGOs with a letter titled “Decriminalisation of Minor Offences For Improving Business Sentiment And Unclogging Court Processes – Amendment in RPwD Act, 2016”. A while later, the letter appeared on the Ministry’s website, with a cap of 10 days to receive feedback. According to the letter, the government intends to do away with the criminalisation of “minor offences”. The letter said, “decriminalisation of minor offences is one of the thrust areas of the government. The risk of imprisonment for actions or omissions that aren’t necessarily fraudulent or the outcome of malafide intent is a big hurdle in attracting investments. The ensuing uncertainty in legal processes and the time taken for resolution in the courts hurts ease of doing business. Criminal penalties including imprisonment for minor offences act as deterrents, and this is perceived as one of the major reasons impacting business sentiment and hindering investments both from domestic and foreign investors.” Also read: India: Lok Sabha passes Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill In essence, the government wants to make amendments solely taking into account the ease of doing business, and to invite foreign investment, amid the Make In India and Go Local trends that have picked up steam after the Indo-China brawl at the border. The proposed Section 95A of the Act would effectively allow Chief or State Commissioners to withdraw cases after the approval of the defender, or the aggrieved. The move has drawn ire from disability activist groups, 125 of whom have written to the Ministry expressing disapproval.

Indian government to amend Disabilities Act citing hindrance in ease of doing business

India-China standoff: India's NSA held talks with Chinese FM

India surpasses Russia in COVID-19 cases and becomes the third most affected country in the world. India reported over 23,000 new coronavirus infections on Sunday. The total number of cases in India has now reached 6.97 lakh.

India steeps past Russia in COVID cases; Becomes third most affected country

india

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news