Indian Oil Corp Ltd, the country's top refiner, on Wednesday reported a net loss in the March quarter, hurt by a surge in inventory losses.

The state-owned company reported a fourth-quarter net loss of 51.85 billion rupees, compared with a profit of 60.99 billion rupees a year earlier.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/in-a-first-diesel-more-costly-than-petrol-in-delhi-308154" hreflang="en">In a first, diesel more costly than petrol in Delhi</a>

Revenue from operations for the reported quarter fell 2.77% to 1.4 trillion rupees.

Inventory losses, which include finished goods, stock-in-trade and work in progress were at 56.68 billion rupees for the March quarter against a loss of 5.96 billion rupees a year ago, the refiner said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/geopolitical-risks-indias-economy-to-contract-31-in-2020-says-moodys-307884" hreflang="en">'Geopolitical risks': India's economy to contract 3.1% in 2020, says Moody's</a>

Inventory loss is booked when oil prices fall by the time a company processes oil into fuel.&nbsp;

IOC, along with unit Chennai Petroleum, controls about a third of India's five million-barrels-per-day refining capacity.&nbsp;

Indian Oil Corp Ltd, the country's top refiner, on Wednesday reported a net loss in the March quarter, hurt by a surge in inventory losses. The state-owned company reported a fourth-quarter net loss of 51.

Indian Oil Corp Ltd, the country's top refiner, on Wednesday reported a net loss in the March quarter, hurt by a surge in inventory losses. The state-owned company reported a fourth-quarter net loss of 51.85 billion rupees, compared with a profit of 60.99 billion rupees a year earlier. Also read: In a first, diesel more costly than petrol in Delhi Revenue from operations for the reported quarter fell 2.77% to 1.4 trillion rupees. Inventory losses, which include finished goods, stock-in-trade and work in progress were at 56.68 billion rupees for the March quarter against a loss of 5.96 billion rupees a year ago, the refiner said. Also read: 'Geopolitical risks': India's economy to contract 3.1% in 2020, says Moody's Inventory loss is booked when oil prices fall by the time a company processes oil into fuel. IOC, along with unit Chennai Petroleum, controls about a third of India's five million-barrels-per-day refining capacity.

Indian Oil Corp posts quarterly loss as inventory losses surge

With a record 15,968 coronavirus cases reported in the past 24 hours, the total count in India has risen to 4,56,183.

Coronavirus cases in India cross 4.56 lakh; records Highest single-day surge

Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala who is Nepalese by origin, faced flak on social media after she tweeted expressing concern over her country on Monday. 
 
"Territorial sovereignty + political sovereignty + economical sovereignty sovereign state !! Let`s mull over this!" tweeted Manisha Koirala.

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Territorial sovereignty + political sovereignty + economical sovereignty = sovereign state !! Let’s mull over this !! Gm ❤️🙏🏻
— Manisha Koirala (@mkoirala) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkoirala/status/1274909073511612417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I was simply mulling over where Nepal stands today n where it`s heading in future, on these fronts.. we kinda know the past .. not saying it`s either good or bad.. just mulling.." she wrote in a separate tweet. 
 
The tweets didn't go down well with many as Twitterati was quick to slam her statements. 
 
A user said, "Nepal is soon going to turn into China's colony." 
 
There were some who wanted her to pack her bags and leave India and called her ungrateful towards India- a country where she has established herself as an actress.

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Please pack ur bags and get out from India . Ur PM has betrayed India on China’s behalf and also gifted China Rui village. To whom you are lecturing all this . World knows ur pm is a sold person who wants to destroy our ancestral relation .
— American Hindu (@harshva66170089) <a href="https://twitter.com/harshva66170089/status/1274911311374086145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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You are right..bt don't talk in favour of Nepal when you are enjoying all the perks from India, else the door is open..we want the issue to be resolved..
— Ayandeep Halder (@AndyArsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndyArsa/status/1275060158318514176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Owing to the backlash, the actress had to share another tweet, requesting everyone not to be disrespectful. 
 
"A heartfelt request please let`s not be aggressive and disrespectful..we are in this situation together..our respective Gov`s will resolve the issue. In the meantime, we can be civil. I remain hopeful," she wrote.

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A heartfelt request please let’s not be aggressive and disrespectful..we are in this situation together..our respective Gov’s will resolve the issue. In the meantime we can be civil 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💝💝💝 I remain hopeful 🌷🌷🌷
— Manisha Koirala (@mkoirala) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkoirala/status/1274932818921967618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On June 18, Nepal's national assembly passed the controversial bill on its updated political-administrative map which includes parts of the Indian territory.

Tensions between the two countries have been brewing since then.

The New Map Amendment Bill (Coat of Arms) refers to an updated map that shows strategically important Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as territories of Nepal.

Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala who is Nepalese by origin, faced flak on social media after she tweeted expressing concern over her country on Monday. "Territorial sovereignty + political sovereignty + economical sovereignty sovereign state !

Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala who is Nepalese by origin, faced flak on social media after she tweeted expressing concern over her country on Monday. "Territorial sovereignty + political sovereignty + economical sovereignty sovereign state !! Let`s mull over this!" tweeted Manisha Koirala. Territorial sovereignty + political sovereignty + economical sovereignty = sovereign state !! Let’s mull over this !! Gm ❤️🙏🏻 — Manisha Koirala (@mkoirala) June 22, 2020 × "I was simply mulling over where Nepal stands today n where it`s heading in future, on these fronts.. we kinda know the past .. not saying it`s either good or bad.. just mulling.." she wrote in a separate tweet. The tweets didn't go down well with many as Twitterati was quick to slam her statements. A user said, "Nepal is soon going to turn into China's colony." There were some who wanted her to pack her bags and leave India and called her ungrateful towards India- a country where she has established herself as an actress. Please pack ur bags and get out from India . Ur PM has betrayed India on China’s behalf and also gifted China Rui village. To whom you are lecturing all this . World knows ur pm is a sold person who wants to destroy our ancestral relation . — American Hindu (@harshva66170089) June 22, 2020 × You are right..bt don't talk in favour of Nepal when you are enjoying all the perks from India, else the door is open..we want the issue to be resolved.. — Ayandeep Halder (@AndyArsa) June 22, 2020 × Owing to the backlash, the actress had to share another tweet, requesting everyone not to be disrespectful. "A heartfelt request please let`s not be aggressive and disrespectful..we are in this situation together..our respective Gov`s will resolve the issue. In the meantime, we can be civil. I remain hopeful," she wrote. A heartfelt request please let’s not be aggressive and disrespectful..we are in this situation together..our respective Gov’s will resolve the issue. In the meantime we can be civil 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💝💝💝 I remain hopeful 🌷🌷🌷 — Manisha Koirala (@mkoirala) June 22, 2020 × On June 18, Nepal's national assembly passed the controversial bill on its updated political-administrative map which includes parts of the Indian territory. Tensions between the two countries have been brewing since then. The New Map Amendment Bill (Coat of Arms) refers to an updated map that shows strategically important Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as territories of Nepal.

Manisha Koirala tweets about Nepal gets flak from Indians on Twitter

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is all set for a virtual meeting today with a Chinese counterpart at the RIC trilateral. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Moscow. Watch report.

India-China standoff: Russia to chair virtual summit today, S. Jaishankar to attend virtual RIC meet

After the violent clash between India and China at the Line of Actual Control, “Boycott China” became India’s mass movement against Chinese goods

Taking cue from public, Indian government begins mission boycott China

India and China are holding Corps Commander-level talks at Moldo on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control opposite Chushul to discuss the ongoing dispute in Ladakh. Watch report.

Ladakh standoff: India, China hold second round of Lt General-level talks

Talks between senior commanders of India and China have arrived at a consensus to "disengage" from all friction points in eastern Ladakh. Watch report.

India-China standoff: India, China agree to disengage from all friction points in Ladakh

After the violent clash between India and China at the Line of Actual Control, “Boycott China” became India’s mass movement against Chinese goods.

The government has fallen in line with the citizen’s sentiments by slowly attempting to corner out Chinese goods.&nbsp;For starters, the government is attempting to limit cheap imports from China, in a bid to boost domestic manufacturing of those goods.

To attain this goal, the government has sought domestic prices of similar goods that are made in India and details on domestic manufacturing capacity.

As per reports, the decision to review the situation was taken at the Prime Minister's office. A high-level meeting took place to discuss ways to promote a self-reliant India.

In the works for long

Even before the conflict had begun, India was attempting to limit such imports from China. The finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget had suggested raising duties on as many as 300 Chinese products.

So far, anti-dumping duty has been levied on 90 Chinese products, but this list could swell enormously. In December 2019, India’s commerce minister Piyush Goyal indicated the number could go up to 5,000 products.

Additionally, the Indian government is reviewing its trade pacts with other countries. To override India’s plans, China is routing its goods to India via common trade partners.

India is revisiting its trade arrangements under South Asia free trade area, the ASEAN group and bilateral pacts with individual countries.

The only trade agreement that involves both China and India is the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement, which is also under scrutiny right now.

Maharastra government fires back at China

State governments are not far behind. The Maharashtra state government has hit back at China, and has stalled three Chinese projects worth 5,000 crore Rupees.

Under the Magnetic Maharashtra initiative to get foreign investment into the state, the government had signed over 12 agreements.

While the agreements with Chinese companies have been put on hold, the other nine agreements are being processed without a hassle.

After the violent clash between India and China at the Line of Actual Control, “Boycott China” became India’s mass movement against Chinese goods. The government has fallen in line with the citizen’s sentiments by slowly attempting to corner out Chinese goods.

After the violent clash between India and China at the Line of Actual Control, “Boycott China” became India’s mass movement against Chinese goods. The government has fallen in line with the citizen’s sentiments by slowly attempting to corner out Chinese goods. For starters, the government is attempting to limit cheap imports from China, in a bid to boost domestic manufacturing of those goods. To attain this goal, the government has sought domestic prices of similar goods that are made in India and details on domestic manufacturing capacity. As per reports, the decision to review the situation was taken at the Prime Minister's office. A high-level meeting took place to discuss ways to promote a self-reliant India. In the works for long Even before the conflict had begun, India was attempting to limit such imports from China. The finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget had suggested raising duties on as many as 300 Chinese products. So far, anti-dumping duty has been levied on 90 Chinese products, but this list could swell enormously. In December 2019, India’s commerce minister Piyush Goyal indicated the number could go up to 5,000 products. Additionally, the Indian government is reviewing its trade pacts with other countries. To override India’s plans, China is routing its goods to India via common trade partners. India is revisiting its trade arrangements under South Asia free trade area, the ASEAN group and bilateral pacts with individual countries. The only trade agreement that involves both China and India is the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement, which is also under scrutiny right now. Maharastra government fires back at China State governments are not far behind. The Maharashtra state government has hit back at China, and has stalled three Chinese projects worth 5,000 crore Rupees. Under the Magnetic Maharashtra initiative to get foreign investment into the state, the government had signed over 12 agreements. While the agreements with Chinese companies have been put on hold, the other nine agreements are being processed without a hassle.

In a move that could further weaken relations with India, a key parliamentary panel in Nepal has proposed an amendment to the nation's Citizenship Act that if passed would make a foreign woman wait for seven years to get Nepalese citizenship if she marries a Nepali national.&nbsp;

Even though the proposed amendment is for all foreign citizens, several marriages between Indian and Nepalese nationals take place on a regular basis, implying to many that it is targetting India.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-government-denies-bihars-water-resource-department-from-constructing-embankment-lays-claim-over-land-307583">Nepal government denies Bihar's Water Resource Department from constructing embankment; lays claim over land</a>

Nepal's main opposition parties, Nepali Congress (NC) and the Samajbadi Party (SJP) have slammed the move, saying that such a provision could affect the 'bread and bride relations' that Kathmandu has had with New Delhi for ages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-parliamentary-committee-supports-amendment-in-citizenship-act-parliament-soon-to-start-discussion-307538">Nepal's Parliamentary Committee supports amendment in Citizenship Act, Parliament soon to start discussion</a>

Several women groups also criticised the amendment and said an all-male secretariat should not take a decision on matters which largely is related to females.

This move comes days after Kathmandu approved a Constitutional amendment, incorporating three strategically important Indian areas of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura in its territory.&nbsp;

In a move that could further weaken relations with India, a key parliamentary panel in Nepal has proposed an amendment to the nation's Citizenship Act that if passed would make a foreign woman wait for seven years to get Nepalese citizenship if she marries a Nepali national.

In a move that could further weaken relations with India, a key parliamentary panel in Nepal has proposed an amendment to the nation's Citizenship Act that if passed would make a foreign woman wait for seven years to get Nepalese citizenship if she marries a Nepali national. Even though the proposed amendment is for all foreign citizens, several marriages between Indian and Nepalese nationals take place on a regular basis, implying to many that it is targetting India. Also read | Nepal government denies Bihar's Water Resource Department from constructing embankment; lays claim over land Nepal's main opposition parties, Nepali Congress (NC) and the Samajbadi Party (SJP) have slammed the move, saying that such a provision could affect the 'bread and bride relations' that Kathmandu has had with New Delhi for ages. Also read | Nepal's Parliamentary Committee supports amendment in Citizenship Act, Parliament soon to start discussion Several women groups also criticised the amendment and said an all-male secretariat should not take a decision on matters which largely is related to females. This move comes days after Kathmandu approved a Constitutional amendment, incorporating three strategically important Indian areas of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura in its territory.

Nepal seeks amendment of Citizenship Act; 'bread-bride' ties with India at risk

Nepal has yet again contested its international border with India and this time the area of contention happens to be Nepal border with the Indian state of Bihar. Watch report.

India-Nepal ties strained: Nepal contests border with India, Lays eyes on Indian territories

Nepal parliamentary panel has proposed to amend the country's citizenship act which is likely to affect the minority Madhesi Madesy population of the country. Watch report.

India-Nepal relations worsen: After border row, Nepal's citizenship law irks India

India-China Maj Gen levels talk underway in Moldo: Focus will be de-escalation at various points

India's two major political parties, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress exchanged a heated war of words following comments made by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the India-China border crisis in Ladakh.

Singh asked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure justice for Indian soldiers who lost their lives following a violent face-off with Chinese security personnel at Galwan Valley in Ladakh last week.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/turning-50-rahul-gandhi-down-but-not-out-307119">Turning 50: Rahul Gandhi, down but not out</a>

He said that disinformation cannot replace diplomacy or decisive leadership.&nbsp;

"The prime minister must always be mindful of the implications of his words and declarations on our nation's security as also strategic and territorial interests," the former PM said in a statement.

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पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी की महत्वपूर्ण सलाह। भारत की भलाई के लिए, मैं आशा करता हूँ कि PM उनकी बात को विनम्रता से मानेंगे। <a href="https://t.co/0QTewzmcyD">pic.twitter.com/0QTewzmcyD</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1274922923413762048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Singh's comments were endorsed by his senior party member Rahul Gandhi, who in a tweet called the former PM's advice "important", adding "for the betterment of India, I hope the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) will accept it politely."

The comments were not taken down well by the BJP and its chief JP Nadda asked Congress to stop insulting the armed forces and questioning their bravery.&nbsp;

"You did this post the air strikes and surgical strikes. Please understand the true meaning of national unity, especially in such times. It`s never too late to improve," Nadda said in a tweet.&nbsp;

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Dear Dr. Singh and Congress Party, 
 
Please stop insulting our forces repeatedly, questioning their valour. You did this post the air strikes and surgical strikes. 
 
Please understand the true meaning of national unity, especially in such times. 
 
It’s never too late to improve.
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1274963217425588226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In other tweets, he also accused Congress of surrendering 43,000 kms of Indian territory to the Chinese without offering a fight and said Singh "presided over 600 incursions made by China between 2010 to 2013".

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One only wishes that Dr. Singh was as worried about Chinese designs when, as PM, he abjectly surrendered hundreds of square kilometres of India’s land to China. He presided over 600 incursions made by China between 2010 to 2013!
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1274963017751560192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dr. Manmohan Singh belongs to the same party which: 
 
Helplessly surrendered over 43,000 KM of Indian territory to the Chinese! 
 
During the UPA years saw abject strategic and territorial surrender without a fight. 
 
Time and again belittles our forces.
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1274962925262966786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congress national spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala slammed Nadda for his remarks and asked him to "stop compromising on national security and India's territorial integrity".

"This would be the biggest disservice to our armed forces and our 20 martyrs. Don't buckle down, have the strength to rise to the occasion. We`ll give the government every support," Surjewala, in a tweet, said.

India's two major political parties, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress exchanged a heated war of words following comments made by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the India-China border crisis in Ladakh.

India's two major political parties, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress exchanged a heated war of words following comments made by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the India-China border crisis in Ladakh. Singh asked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure justice for Indian soldiers who lost their lives following a violent face-off with Chinese security personnel at Galwan Valley in Ladakh last week. Also read | Turning 50: Rahul Gandhi, down but not out He said that disinformation cannot replace diplomacy or decisive leadership. "The prime minister must always be mindful of the implications of his words and declarations on our nation's security as also strategic and territorial interests," the former PM said in a statement. पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी की महत्वपूर्ण सलाह। भारत की भलाई के लिए, मैं आशा करता हूँ कि PM उनकी बात को विनम्रता से मानेंगे। pic.twitter.com/0QTewzmcyD — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 22, 2020 × Singh's comments were endorsed by his senior party member Rahul Gandhi, who in a tweet called the former PM's advice "important", adding "for the betterment of India, I hope the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) will accept it politely." The comments were not taken down well by the BJP and its chief JP Nadda asked Congress to stop insulting the armed forces and questioning their bravery. "You did this post the air strikes and surgical strikes. Please understand the true meaning of national unity, especially in such times. It`s never too late to improve," Nadda said in a tweet. Dear Dr. Singh and Congress Party, Please stop insulting our forces repeatedly, questioning their valour. You did this post the air strikes and surgical strikes. Please understand the true meaning of national unity, especially in such times. It’s never too late to improve. — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) June 22, 2020 × In other tweets, he also accused Congress of surrendering 43,000 kms of Indian territory to the Chinese without offering a fight and said Singh "presided over 600 incursions made by China between 2010 to 2013". One only wishes that Dr. Singh was as worried about Chinese designs when, as PM, he abjectly surrendered hundreds of square kilometres of India’s land to China. He presided over 600 incursions made by China between 2010 to 2013! — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) June 22, 2020 × Dr. Manmohan Singh belongs to the same party which: Helplessly surrendered over 43,000 KM of Indian territory to the Chinese! During the UPA years saw abject strategic and territorial surrender without a fight. Time and again belittles our forces. — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) June 22, 2020 × Congress national spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala slammed Nadda for his remarks and asked him to "stop compromising on national security and India's territorial integrity". "This would be the biggest disservice to our armed forces and our 20 martyrs. Don't buckle down, have the strength to rise to the occasion. We`ll give the government every support," Surjewala, in a tweet, said.

BJP, Congress exchange war of words on former PM Manmohan Singh's remarks

India celebrates International Yoga Day amid coronavirus pandemic

India's crude oil imports in May fell 22.6% from a year earlier, it's biggest drop since at least 2005, as fuel demand and refinery production was hurt by a country-wide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

India's crude oil imports in May fell 22.6% from a year earlier, it's biggest drop since at least 2005, as fuel demand and refinery production was hurt by a country-wide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. Crude oil imports fell to 14.61 million tonnes, it's lowest since 2015, Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell data showed on Friday. Oil products imports eased 0.8% to 3.57 million tonnes year-on-year, while exports rose by 5.9% to 5.75 million tonnes, gaining for a ninth straight month in May as slowing demand at home prompted companies to ship more oil overseas. The country has relaxed coronavirus-led restrictions in lower risk areas, which is expected to improve demand and scale up crude processing. The latest data bolstered those expectations with India's fuel demand jumping nearly 50% in May from the previous month, signalling a slow revival of economic activity. However, industry analysts expect a full-scale recovery to pre-COVID-19 consumption levels in India to be months away as the monsoon season approaches while manufacturing activities remain low and transportation demand takes a hit in some parts of the country. Diesel exports, which continued to account for a major share of exports, increased by nearly 33% to 2.79 million tonnes. India revised down its crude oil imports figure for April to 16.55 million tonnes- a decline of 16% year-on-year, from 17.28 million tonnes reported earlier, the data showed.

India's May crude oil imports post biggest decline since at least 2005

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal.

Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars.

It was once described as the 'yam between the two rocks', by the founder of Modern Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah. Little did he know that in 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, the yam would be squashed by one rock.

For Nepal, its alliance with China has come at a very heavy cost. Kathmandu has lost its identity, and is dancing to the tunes of China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/enough-is-enough-nepal-youth-tells-prime-minister-kp-sharma-oli-306932">Also read|&nbsp;'Enough is Enough', Nepal youth tells Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli</a>

Nepal is indulging in unprecedented provocation, and not just in map fixing. While map fixing was bad, at least that was only on paper.&nbsp;The recent developments are&nbsp;on ground, as&nbsp;Nepal has deployed troops on its border with India.

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This has never happened before.&nbsp;The Nepali army has built a helipad, and is planted tents. All of this drama is playing out in Dharchula, which is&nbsp;just 80 kilometers from the Chinese border.

While playing around with a map is one thing, deploying troops is another. The former is not okay, but the latter counts as military provocation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/map-move-why-is-nepal-provoking-india-306906">Also read|&nbsp;Map move: Why is Nepal provoking India?</a>

This is very uncommon for Nepal. This has also made it clear that Nepal and China are not just friends or allies, but Chinese government has made Mr. Oli's government as its puppet.

Earlier today, the Nepal Communist Party held a workshop along with the Chinese Communist Party. Apparently, the two sides wanted to share experiences on running the party and the government. A similar workshop was held last year, few weeks before Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal.

There are two takeaways from this so-called virtual worship. First, there is no real sharing of experiences here. These are virtual schools being runs by the CCP. Comrade Oli and his team are being coached by the CCP.&nbsp;

A line from the statement of Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachand. He is the chairperson of the Nepal Communist Party -- the ruling party in Kathmandu.

Prachand told the gathering that the relations between Nepal and China are 'nurtured on the basis of sovereign equality'. He was once viewed as India's man, trusted to counterbalance Oli.&nbsp; However, that's not the case anymore.

Another important thing to note is the the timing of this virtual meet. It comes a day after Nepal constitutionally adopted a wrong map, claiming India's territories as its own. It also comes four&nbsp;days after the Galwan skirmish

Four days after so many lives were lost, Nepal's ruling party is taking classes from the CCP.

Mr. Oli is proving to be a fast learner. The first thing he has picked up from the CCP is how to ignore the problems of his people, and that's exactly what he's doing -- turning a blind eye to the problems in Nepal.

The first problem that Nepal locals are facing is the novel coronavirus, which has made over&nbsp;9,000 people sick in Nepal.

Healthcare in Nepal is a mess. Plus, there's a humanitarian crisis, as some 25,000 Nepali citizens are stranded abroad, without jobs.

Nepal's apex court has asked the government to evacuate them. It had to step in&nbsp;to remind Mr. Oli of his duty as a Prime Minister.

Another problem is the caste-based violence. A 21-year-old Dalit man was recently killed in Nepal. There are have been over 33 cases of violence against Dalits this year. There were at least 84 cases in 2019. There are thousands on the streets&nbsp;protesting these incidents. They have caught the attention of the United Nations and the European Union.

However, Mr.&nbsp;Oli is learning from China to not to care about human rights either.

The next problem is the crippling economy, again affected by the coronavirus. There is no money coming in to Nepal, and no tourists either. Remittances are expected to slide by 14 per cent this year, as per World economic forum.

Interestingly, remittances represent more than a quarter of Nepal's economic output. Any good government would understand the gravity of this situation. But Mr. Oli's poor governance is the reason behind his failed delivery.

Now his politics depends on fanning anti-India sentiment. Ultra-nationalism is politically profitable in Nepal, but remember the law of diminishing returns, and the significance of timing.

Now is not the time to construct helipads, or move troops. And it is never a good time to burn bridges with a friendly neighbour, especially one on whom you depend so heavily.

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal. Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars.

China is not just directly engaged with India, but it is fighting proxy battles too. Case in point: Nepal. Nepal is a small Himalayan country of 26 million people, with a GDP of 19 billion dollars. It was once described as the 'yam between the two rocks', by the founder of Modern Nepal, Prithvi Narayan Shah. Little did he know that in 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, the yam would be squashed by one rock. For Nepal, its alliance with China has come at a very heavy cost. Kathmandu has lost its identity, and is dancing to the tunes of China. Also read| 'Enough is Enough', Nepal youth tells Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli Nepal is indulging in unprecedented provocation, and not just in map fixing. While map fixing was bad, at least that was only on paper. The recent developments are on ground, as Nepal has deployed troops on its border with India. This has never happened before. The Nepali army has built a helipad, and is planted tents. All of this drama is playing out in Dharchula, which is just 80 kilometers from the Chinese border. While playing around with a map is one thing, deploying troops is another. The former is not okay, but the latter counts as military provocation. Also read| Map move: Why is Nepal provoking India? This is very uncommon for Nepal. This has also made it clear that Nepal and China are not just friends or allies, but Chinese government has made Mr. Oli's government as its puppet. Earlier today, the Nepal Communist Party held a workshop along with the Chinese Communist Party. Apparently, the two sides wanted to share experiences on running the party and the government. A similar workshop was held last year, few weeks before Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal. There are two takeaways from this so-called virtual worship. First, there is no real sharing of experiences here. These are virtual schools being runs by the CCP. Comrade Oli and his team are being coached by the CCP. A line from the statement of Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachand. He is the chairperson of the Nepal Communist Party -- the ruling party in Kathmandu. Prachand told the gathering that the relations between Nepal and China are 'nurtured on the basis of sovereign equality'. He was once viewed as India's man, trusted to counterbalance Oli. However, that's not the case anymore. Another important thing to note is the the timing of this virtual meet. It comes a day after Nepal constitutionally adopted a wrong map, claiming India's territories as its own. It also comes four days after the Galwan skirmish Four days after so many lives were lost, Nepal's ruling party is taking classes from the CCP. Mr. Oli is proving to be a fast learner. The first thing he has picked up from the CCP is how to ignore the problems of his people, and that's exactly what he's doing -- turning a blind eye to the problems in Nepal. The first problem that Nepal locals are facing is the novel coronavirus, which has made over 9,000 people sick in Nepal. Healthcare in Nepal is a mess. Plus, there's a humanitarian crisis, as some 25,000 Nepali citizens are stranded abroad, without jobs. Nepal's apex court has asked the government to evacuate them. It had to step in to remind Mr. Oli of his duty as a Prime Minister. Another problem is the caste-based violence. A 21-year-old Dalit man was recently killed in Nepal. There are have been over 33 cases of violence against Dalits this year. There were at least 84 cases in 2019. There are thousands on the streets protesting these incidents. They have caught the attention of the United Nations and the European Union. However, Mr. Oli is learning from China to not to care about human rights either. The next problem is the crippling economy, again affected by the coronavirus. There is no money coming in to Nepal, and no tourists either. Remittances are expected to slide by 14 per cent this year, as per World economic forum. Interestingly, remittances represent more than a quarter of Nepal's economic output. Any good government would understand the gravity of this situation. But Mr. Oli's poor governance is the reason behind his failed delivery. Now his politics depends on fanning anti-India sentiment. Ultra-nationalism is politically profitable in Nepal, but remember the law of diminishing returns, and the significance of timing. Now is not the time to construct helipads, or move troops. And it is never a good time to burn bridges with a friendly neighbour, especially one on whom you depend so heavily.

Allies or puppets? Nepal's movement around border raises questions about its friendship with China

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

"Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-single-day-spike-in-coronavirus-cases-death-toll-crosses-12500-306984">India records highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases; death toll crosses 12,500</a>

Designed and developed by the World Bank in collaboration with the Indian authorities, the assistance seeks to optimize and scale up the Indian government's existing social protection programmes, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/look-forward-to-working-with-india-for-a-more-stable-world-us-on-unsc-election-306780">Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election</a>

"Focusing on boosting the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna, the programme will provide further benefits to low-income families to ensure that the health, social and economic shocks arising from COVID-19 do not endanger people's well-being or their contribution to the country's economic growth in the long run," it said.

The statement also said that the programme is also intended to protect frontline workers battling the pandemic, including healthcare, sanitation, and security personnel by providing them with health insurance.&nbsp;

Social assistance programmes will also be put in place for migrant workers and low-income urban households that may be unable to get aid under PMGKY, it added.

Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, who was present at the sign of the agreement, said: "President Macron and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi have been working together so that the excellent relations between our two countries translate into concrete cooperation in the fight against COVID-19."

"The Indian government's rollout of the PMGKY is a testament to its commitment to ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society are protected, and it is this commitment that France, through the French Development Agency and its partners, is determined to support."

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis. "Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI.

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis. "Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI. Also read | India records highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases; death toll crosses 12,500 Designed and developed by the World Bank in collaboration with the Indian authorities, the assistance seeks to optimize and scale up the Indian government's existing social protection programmes, it said. Also read | Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election "Focusing on boosting the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna, the programme will provide further benefits to low-income families to ensure that the health, social and economic shocks arising from COVID-19 do not endanger people's well-being or their contribution to the country's economic growth in the long run," it said. The statement also said that the programme is also intended to protect frontline workers battling the pandemic, including healthcare, sanitation, and security personnel by providing them with health insurance. Social assistance programmes will also be put in place for migrant workers and low-income urban households that may be unable to get aid under PMGKY, it added. Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, who was present at the sign of the agreement, said: "President Macron and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi have been working together so that the excellent relations between our two countries translate into concrete cooperation in the fight against COVID-19." "The Indian government's rollout of the PMGKY is a testament to its commitment to ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society are protected, and it is this commitment that France, through the French Development Agency and its partners, is determined to support."

France provides 200 million euros assistance to India for tackling COVID-19 crisis

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick &amp; thin.&nbsp;Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China. 
&nbsp; 
The development comes even has Moscow has publically reacted on the standoff at multiple levels with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov &amp; India's Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma discussing the matter.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, reactions came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the Russian ambassador to India Nikolay R. Kudashev &amp; Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin on the development hoping for de-escalation.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-the-galwan-valley-has-become-a-flashpoint-306642/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lavrov said, "It has already been announced that the military representatives of India and China have made contact, they are discussing the situation, discussing measures to de-escalate it. We welcome this".

Envoy Kudashev in a tweet said, "We welcome all steps aimed at de-escalation at the LAC, including the conversation between the two FMs, and remain optimistic."

While Russian DCM told WION, &nbsp;"We hope that the tensions will soon be de-escalated, and the sides would further maintain a constructive dialogue also keeping in mind the potential of cooperation. Russia believes it is vital for the region".

The Russian readout of deputy Russian foreign minister's talks with Indian envoy to Russia said, "the officials discussed regional security, including developments on the Line of Actual Control on the border between India and China in the Himalayas".&nbsp;

India and Russia have close ties and engage frequently including at the highest level. Both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other many times this year including on COVID-19 crisis.

Later next week, the RIC Russia-India-China foreign minister meet via video conference will take place.&nbsp;

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova announced that "On June 23, foreign ministers of Russia, India &amp; China are scheduled to meet via videoconference as part of Russia’s RIC chairmanship. They will exchange views on trends in global politics, the economy, and other areas following the COVID19 pandemic."&nbsp;

Russian envoy called the "existence" of the grouping an "undisputable reality" which is "firmly fixed on the world map". Commenting on "current stage of of the trilateral cooperation" he said, "there are no indications that it might be frozen" over current India-China stand-off.

Later this year as the chair of SCO and BRICS, Russia will host the summits of both the groupings.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan's&nbsp;Foreign Minister SM Qureshi also spoke to his Russian counterpart&nbsp;and the Russian foreign ministry readout of the talks showed that Russia did not support Pak priorities as Islamabad had been claiming during the telephone call.

India will send 75 members strong Tri-Service contingent to participate in the 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II in Moscow.

Victory Day Parade is scheduled to be held on June 24, 2020, in Moscow and the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had invited Indian contingent to take part.&nbsp;

According to the official press-release of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the mechanized column participating in the parade will consist of more than 200 vehicles with more than 20 types of military hardware showcased at the parade for the first time.

Among the new armoured vehicles will be T-90M main battle tank, Armata infantry fighting vehicle with new combat module Kinzhal, Kurganets-25 infantry fighting vehicle with Epoha combat module.

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick & thin. Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China.

Moscow has assured that it stands by India in thick & thin. Top sources told WION while it supports India, it also backs New Delhi's efforts to resolve issues with China amidst the ongoing stand-off with China. The development comes even has Moscow has publically reacted on the standoff at multiple levels with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov & India's Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma discussing the matter. On Wednesday, reactions came from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the Russian ambassador to India Nikolay R. Kudashev & Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin on the development hoping for de-escalation. Watch | Lavrov said, "It has already been announced that the military representatives of India and China have made contact, they are discussing the situation, discussing measures to de-escalate it. We welcome this". Envoy Kudashev in a tweet said, "We welcome all steps aimed at de-escalation at the LAC, including the conversation between the two FMs, and remain optimistic." While Russian DCM told WION, "We hope that the tensions will soon be de-escalated, and the sides would further maintain a constructive dialogue also keeping in mind the potential of cooperation. Russia believes it is vital for the region". The Russian readout of deputy Russian foreign minister's talks with Indian envoy to Russia said, "the officials discussed regional security, including developments on the Line of Actual Control on the border between India and China in the Himalayas". India and Russia have close ties and engage frequently including at the highest level. Both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other many times this year including on COVID-19 crisis. Later next week, the RIC Russia-India-China foreign minister meet via video conference will take place. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Zakharova announced that "On June 23, foreign ministers of Russia, India & China are scheduled to meet via videoconference as part of Russia’s RIC chairmanship. They will exchange views on trends in global politics, the economy, and other areas following the COVID19 pandemic." Russian envoy called the "existence" of the grouping an "undisputable reality" which is "firmly fixed on the world map". Commenting on "current stage of of the trilateral cooperation" he said, "there are no indications that it might be frozen" over current India-China stand-off. Later this year as the chair of SCO and BRICS, Russia will host the summits of both the groupings. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister SM Qureshi also spoke to his Russian counterpart and the Russian foreign ministry readout of the talks showed that Russia did not support Pak priorities as Islamabad had been claiming during the telephone call. India will send 75 members strong Tri-Service contingent to participate in the 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II in Moscow. Victory Day Parade is scheduled to be held on June 24, 2020, in Moscow and the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had invited Indian contingent to take part. According to the official press-release of the Russian Ministry of Defense, the mechanized column participating in the parade will consist of more than 200 vehicles with more than 20 types of military hardware showcased at the parade for the first time. Among the new armoured vehicles will be T-90M main battle tank, Armata infantry fighting vehicle with new combat module Kinzhal, Kurganets-25 infantry fighting vehicle with Epoha combat module.

Moscow assures support to India amidst stand off with China

After widespread speculation that several Indian soldiers are in Chinese custody. The Indian Army has set the record straight confirming that all soldiers involved in the Galwan valley skirmish are accounted for.

India-China standoff | No Indian soldiers missing: All injured personnel stable

A country surviving on I.M.F bailouts & China's alms has offered to help India. WION's Palki Sharma decodes if Pakistan is in any position to help others.

Gravitas: Can Imran Khan really help India?

An Indian citizen was killed in indiscriminate firing by Nepal police at the Bihar border. The Prime Minister of Nepal has repeatedly blamed India for the Wuhan virus. Is it time for India to set the record straight? WION's palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Nepal's dangerous brinkmanship against India

Pakistan, China & Nepal have become active at the border simultaneously. Are the border flare-ups a coordinated plan by China? Do the 3 neighbours pose a combined threat to India?

Gravitas: India's border bother | Pakistan, China & Nepal

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable".&nbsp;

"As we have conveyed earlier today, External Affairs Minister and the State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China had a phone conversation on recent developments in Ladakh," &nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-aware-of-india-china-face-off-white-house-306665">Donald Trump aware of India-China face-off: White House</a>

"Both sides have agreed that the overall situation should be handled in a responsible manner and that the understandings reached between Senior Commanders on 6th June should be implemented sincerely. Making exaggerated and untenable claims is contrary to this understanding."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-galwan-valley-has-become-the-flashpoint-in-india-china-conflict-once-again-306607">Why Galwan Valley has become the flashpoint in India-China conflict once again?</a>

India's response came after Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lijian Zhao on Wednesday said that sovereignty over the Galwan Valley has always belonged to China and the Indian border forces seriously violated Chinese border protocols and consensus reached on commander-level talks.&nbsp;

As many as 20 members of Indian forces were killed in a clash with Chinese troops late on Monday in Ladakh, the first in the region since 1962 during the war between both the countries.&nbsp;

The MEA on Wednesday also warned China that the Galwan Valley incident will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relations and asked Beijing to reassess its actions and take corrective steps.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable".

In a strong rebuttal to Chinese claims of having sovereignty at the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, the Indian foreign ministry on Wednesday called China's claims "exaggerated and untenable". "As we have conveyed earlier today, External Affairs Minister and the State Councillor and Foreign Minister of China had a phone conversation on recent developments in Ladakh," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. Also read | Donald Trump aware of India-China face-off: White House "Both sides have agreed that the overall situation should be handled in a responsible manner and that the understandings reached between Senior Commanders on 6th June should be implemented sincerely. Making exaggerated and untenable claims is contrary to this understanding." Also read | Why Galwan Valley has become the flashpoint in India-China conflict once again? India's response came after Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lijian Zhao on Wednesday said that sovereignty over the Galwan Valley has always belonged to China and the Indian border forces seriously violated Chinese border protocols and consensus reached on commander-level talks. As many as 20 members of Indian forces were killed in a clash with Chinese troops late on Monday in Ladakh, the first in the region since 1962 during the war between both the countries. The MEA on Wednesday also warned China that the Galwan Valley incident will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relations and asked Beijing to reassess its actions and take corrective steps.

China's claims over Galwan Valley 'exaggerated and untenable': India

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