The Indian Army honours its brave soldiers on January 15 and also gives gallantry awards and Sena medals. It was on this day that Field Marshal KM Cariappa took over command of the Army in 1949. Field Marshal KM Cariappa took over command from General Sir Francis Butcher who was the last British commander-in-chief of India. The Indian Army is one of the largest in the world with seven commands. The Indian Army has fought in every conflict since 1947. Indian Army soldiers had also fought in World War-I and World War-II.

What you need to know about Army Day

After getting slightly better recently due to rain, the&nbsp;air quality index (AQI) of India’s capital has again slipped to the “poor” category. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Delhi’s AQI was 226 at 7 am. The minimum temperature of the city is also highly likely to dip by 7 degrees Celsius. On Monday, the average 24-hour AQI was 151. &nbsp;

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The AQI between zero and 50 is considered “good”, 51 and 100 “satisfactory”, 101 and 200 “moderate”, 201 and 300 “poor”, 301 and 400 “very poor” and 401 and 500 “severe”. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, the maximum temperature was expected to reach 19 degrees Celsius. A moderate fog will also be witnessed. On Monday, the maximum temperature was 18.1 degrees Celsius and the minimum was 9.6 degrees Celsius. &nbsp;

The AQI remained in the “satisfactory” category on Monday due to rain that caused wet deposition of pollutants, said the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). &nbsp;

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For the next three days, a gradual increase in maximum temperature could be witnessed due to cloud-free conditions. The speed of wind was also likely to be moderate leading to enhanced ventilation, it added. &nbsp;

“AQI is likely to degrade to ‘Moderate’ on 11th and 12th (Tuesday and Wednesday) due to moderate ventilation and absence of wet deposition of pollutants,” it added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After getting slightly better recently due to rain, the air quality index (AQI) of India’s capital has again slipped to the “poor” category. On Tuesday, Delhi’s AQI was 226 at 7 am.

After getting slightly better recently due to rain, the air quality index (AQI) of India’s capital has again slipped to the “poor” category. On Tuesday, Delhi’s AQI was 226 at 7 am. The minimum temperature of the city is also highly likely to dip by 7 degrees Celsius. On Monday, the average 24-hour AQI was 151. Also Read: In a thumbs-up to agricultural trade, India to allow imports of US pork, say officials The AQI between zero and 50 is considered “good”, 51 and 100 “satisfactory”, 101 and 200 “moderate”, 201 and 300 “poor”, 301 and 400 “very poor” and 401 and 500 “severe”. On Tuesday, the maximum temperature was expected to reach 19 degrees Celsius. A moderate fog will also be witnessed. On Monday, the maximum temperature was 18.1 degrees Celsius and the minimum was 9.6 degrees Celsius. The AQI remained in the “satisfactory” category on Monday due to rain that caused wet deposition of pollutants, said the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). Also Read: India reports over 1,68,000 COVID-19 cases, 277 deaths in 24 hours For the next three days, a gradual increase in maximum temperature could be witnessed due to cloud-free conditions. The speed of wind was also likely to be moderate leading to enhanced ventilation, it added. “AQI is likely to degrade to ‘Moderate’ on 11th and 12th (Tuesday and Wednesday) due to moderate ventilation and absence of wet deposition of pollutants,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

After getting slightly better, Indian capital’s AQI again slips to 'poor' category

A resident of India’s state of Kerala, Shafi Vikraman, has claimed to have obtained over 145 certificates of courses offered by various universities in 16 countries virtually during the Covid-induced lockdown. &nbsp;

Vikraman, who lives in Thiruvananthapuram, told ANI, that he spent over 20 hours daily to earn these certificates during the lockdown. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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"Lockdown was a situation where people were not able to move out, I utilised that time at maxim level," Vikraman said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b229cb2f-8ca7-42ac-ab7f-6c088e17ddcc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/CO2.jpg" />

Vikraman, while talking about his experience, said that some courses he found were quite tough at the initial stage but when he started completing them one after another, he realised that he can go way further. &nbsp;

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"To complete these courses, either you have to be academically brilliant or to be smart enough, everyone cannot do this," Vikraman explained. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"People have to pay for these courses as well, but I was lucky, that I did not pay any cost. If it would have not been free of cost, it was sure that I would have not completed these courses because we can't afford that many fees," Vikraman added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A resident of India’s state of Kerala, Shafi Vikraman, has claimed to have obtained over 145 certificates of courses offered by various universities in 16 countries virtually during the Covid-induced lockdown.

A resident of India’s state of Kerala, Shafi Vikraman, has claimed to have obtained over 145 certificates of courses offered by various universities in 16 countries virtually during the Covid-induced lockdown. Vikraman, who lives in Thiruvananthapuram, told ANI, that he spent over 20 hours daily to earn these certificates during the lockdown. Also Read: India reports over 1,41,900 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours "Lockdown was a situation where people were not able to move out, I utilised that time at maxim level," Vikraman said. Vikraman, while talking about his experience, said that some courses he found were quite tough at the initial stage but when he started completing them one after another, he realised that he can go way further. Also Read: For first time in India, J&K Police to get American assault rifles and pistols "To complete these courses, either you have to be academically brilliant or to be smart enough, everyone cannot do this," Vikraman explained. "People have to pay for these courses as well, but I was lucky, that I did not pay any cost. If it would have not been free of cost, it was sure that I would have not completed these courses because we can't afford that many fees," Vikraman added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man claims to get over 145 educational certificates during Covid lockdown

In yet another high-profile Covid positive case, Arvind Kejriwal, who is chief minister of India’s state of Delhi, confirmed on Tuesday that he has contracted coronavirus.&nbsp;The leader has also isolated himself at home. &nbsp;

Not just this, the CM has asked people, who came in contact with him in last few days, to go into quarantine and get tested. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-33750-new-covid-cases-in-24-hours-as-omicron-tally-reaches-1700-441908" hreflang="en">India records 33,750 new Covid cases in 24 hrs as Omicron tally reaches 1,700</a>

On Twitter, Kejriwal said, "I have tested positive for Covid. Mild symptoms. Have isolated myself at home. Those who came in touch wid (with) me in last few days, kindly isolate urself (yourself) and get urself tested." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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On Monday, India recorded 33,750 fresh cases of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours.&nbsp;Covid tally of the country had spiked to 3,49,22,882.

And around 1,700 cases of Omicron variant were detected in the country till Monday.&nbsp;

The active cases had also risen to 1,45,582, as per the Union health ministry's data updated on the day. &nbsp;

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Around 639 patients of Omicron had either recovered or migrated. The new variant of coronavirus has come up in 23 states and union territories so far. &nbsp;

With 123 more fatalities, the death toll climbed to 4,81,893, the data updated at 8 am showed. Of the new fatalities, 78 had come from Kerala and nine from Maharashtra. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In yet another high-profile Covid positive case, Arvind Kejriwal, who is chief minister of India’s state of Delhi, confirmed on Tuesday that he has contracted coronavirus.

In yet another high-profile Covid positive case, Arvind Kejriwal, who is chief minister of India’s state of Delhi, confirmed on Tuesday that he has contracted coronavirus. The leader has also isolated himself at home. Not just this, the CM has asked people, who came in contact with him in last few days, to go into quarantine and get tested. Also Read: India records 33,750 new Covid cases in 24 hrs as Omicron tally reaches 1,700 On Twitter, Kejriwal said, "I have tested positive for Covid. Mild symptoms. Have isolated myself at home. Those who came in touch wid (with) me in last few days, kindly isolate urself (yourself) and get urself tested." I have tested positive for Covid. Mild symptoms. Have isolated myself at home. Those who came in touch wid me in last few days, kindly isolate urself and get urself tested — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 4, 2022 × On Monday, India recorded 33,750 fresh cases of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours. Covid tally of the country had spiked to 3,49,22,882. And around 1,700 cases of Omicron variant were detected in the country till Monday. The active cases had also risen to 1,45,582, as per the Union health ministry's data updated on the day. Also Read: Vaccination for 15-18 age group in India starts amid COVID-19 surge Around 639 patients of Omicron had either recovered or migrated. The new variant of coronavirus has come up in 23 states and union territories so far. With 123 more fatalities, the death toll climbed to 4,81,893, the data updated at 8 am showed. Of the new fatalities, 78 had come from Kerala and nine from Maharashtra. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian state’s chief minister Arvind Kejriwal contracts Covid, isolates self at home

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. &nbsp;

One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.43 per cent, as per data provided by the health department of the city. &nbsp;

This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of new variant, Omicron. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Around 180 cases were recorded on Friday. The positivity rate had also increased to 0.29 per cent at that time, said figures shared by the officials. &nbsp;

The death toll of the coronavirus has reached 25,104 in Delhi. &nbsp;

It is the highest rise since June 13 when around 255 cases had come with a positivity rate of 0.35 per cent. On that day, 23 deaths were also recorded. &nbsp;

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On Saturday, the number of cumulative cases was 14,43,062. In Delhi, more than 14.17 lakh patients have recovered from coronavirus. &nbsp;

In December, six deaths have been reported till now. &nbsp;

A total of 57,295 tests, 52,444 RT-PCR tests and 4,851 rapid antigen tests, were conducted a day ago, as per the latest bulletin. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.

In the highest single-day spike since June 13, Indian capital, Delhi, has registered 249 new Covid cases on Saturday. One death was also reported. The positivity rate has increased to 0.43 per cent, as per data provided by the health department of the city. This comes as several countries have been witnessing a massive rise in the number of coronavirus cases after the emergence of new variant, Omicron. Also Read: As Omicron variant torments healthcare, UK looks to hire foreign workers by relaxing visa rules Around 180 cases were recorded on Friday. The positivity rate had also increased to 0.29 per cent at that time, said figures shared by the officials. The death toll of the coronavirus has reached 25,104 in Delhi. It is the highest rise since June 13 when around 255 cases had come with a positivity rate of 0.35 per cent. On that day, 23 deaths were also recorded. Also Read: 415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases On Saturday, the number of cumulative cases was 14,43,062. In Delhi, more than 14.17 lakh patients have recovered from coronavirus. In December, six deaths have been reported till now. A total of 57,295 tests, 52,444 RT-PCR tests and 4,851 rapid antigen tests, were conducted a day ago, as per the latest bulletin. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13

In a string of inaugurations in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for 594-km Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur district on Saturday. &nbsp;

The six-lane expressway will stretch from Bijauli village in Meerut to Judapur Dandu village in Prayagraj. &nbsp;

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The expressway, which can be expanded to eight lanes, will be built at a cost of over Rs 362,300 million. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The state-of-the-art highway will pass through Meerut, Hapur, Amroha, Sambhal, Bulandshahr, Budaun, Unnao, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh and Prayagraj districts of the state. &nbsp;

After the work gets completed, it will become the longest expressway in the state of Uttar Pradesh as it will connect the western regions with the eastern ones. &nbsp;

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What is special about this highway is that it will also have a 3.5-km-long air strip, which will prove beneficial in assisting emergency take-off and landing for Indian Air Force planes for security operations. It will be constructed on the expressway in Shahjahanpur. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Not just this, an industrial corridor has also been proposed to be built along the expressway. It will give immense boost to the socio-economic development of the area. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a string of inaugurations in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for 594-km Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur district on Saturday.

In a string of inaugurations in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for 594-km Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur district on Saturday. The six-lane expressway will stretch from Bijauli village in Meerut to Judapur Dandu village in Prayagraj. Also Read: Studying UK's Omicron trend, experts warn India could see 1.4 million daily Covid cases The expressway, which can be expanded to eight lanes, will be built at a cost of over Rs 362,300 million. The state-of-the-art highway will pass through Meerut, Hapur, Amroha, Sambhal, Bulandshahr, Budaun, Unnao, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh and Prayagraj districts of the state. After the work gets completed, it will become the longest expressway in the state of Uttar Pradesh as it will connect the western regions with the eastern ones. Also Read: Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave What is special about this highway is that it will also have a 3.5-km-long air strip, which will prove beneficial in assisting emergency take-off and landing for Indian Air Force planes for security operations. It will be constructed on the expressway in Shahjahanpur. Not just this, an industrial corridor has also been proposed to be built along the expressway. It will give immense boost to the socio-economic development of the area. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays foundation stone for 594-km Ganga Expressway

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. &nbsp;

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Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. &nbsp;

Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". &nbsp;

"Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. &nbsp;

A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. &nbsp;

Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22.

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. Also Read: 101 cases of Omicron variant detected in India so far, says health department official Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". "Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. Also Read: Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant: 12 new cases surface in Indian capital

In what can be called a rare sighting, Indian forest department officials in the state of Bihar rescued a barn owl on Wednesday. &nbsp;

The animal, which is generally native to the US, the UK and other parts of Europe, was found in Supaul district of the state. It is very rarely seen in the Indian subcontinent. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Supaul District Forest Officer (DFO) Sunil Kumar Sharan said that he received information about a barn owl from Daparakha village, which falls under Triveniganj police station area. &nbsp;

“The rare bird was spotted in the house of a resident, identified as Rahul Kumar in Daparakha village. The owl was spotted when some crows were pecking it. He rescued the owl and put it in a cage until we arrived in the village,” Sharan said. &nbsp;

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“The owl is under observation. It is a rare bird having huge demand in international market. It is generally found in countries with low temperature. This is the ideal time in which the bird can stay in north India,” the district forest officer said. &nbsp;

“We have intimated senior wildlife officials of Patna. We will take action on the basis of their direction,” Sharan added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a rare sighting, Indian forest department officials in the state of Bihar rescued a barn owl on Wednesday. The animal, which is generally native to the US, the UK and other parts of Europe, was found in Supaul district of the state.

In what can be called a rare sighting, Indian forest department officials in the state of Bihar rescued a barn owl on Wednesday. The animal, which is generally native to the US, the UK and other parts of Europe, was found in Supaul district of the state. It is very rarely seen in the Indian subcontinent. Also Read: Under presumption of ‘kittens’, Indian farmer rescues leopard cubs Supaul District Forest Officer (DFO) Sunil Kumar Sharan said that he received information about a barn owl from Daparakha village, which falls under Triveniganj police station area. “The rare bird was spotted in the house of a resident, identified as Rahul Kumar in Daparakha village. The owl was spotted when some crows were pecking it. He rescued the owl and put it in a cage until we arrived in the village,” Sharan said. Also Read: Indian PM gets highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know “The owl is under observation. It is a rare bird having huge demand in international market. It is generally found in countries with low temperature. This is the ideal time in which the bird can stay in north India,” the district forest officer said. “We have intimated senior wildlife officials of Patna. We will take action on the basis of their direction,” Sharan added. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare sighting: Barn owl shows up in Indian state, gets rescued

A farmer in Indian state of Madhya Pradesh was in for a huge shock when he rescued some leopard cubs while assuming them to be ‘kittens’. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As a good samaritan and doing his bit for society and animals, the farmer at Bajrikheda village of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh brought the cubs to his home to take care of them, a report by Live Hindustan said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The farmer, who had found the animals at his farm land, made concerted efforts to feed and take care of them. Not just this, the farmer also gave them bath and spent time with them without any suspicion of them being leopard cubs. &nbsp;

All went good for a few days until the farmer was shocked on one fine day after the animals started growling. This raised suspicion in the mind of the farmer that are these kittens or cubs of any other animal. &nbsp;

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So, the farmer discussed the matter with the neighbours first and then went to the forest department, who confirmed the suspicion that these were leopard cubs and not kittens. The animals were finally handed over to the forest officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A farmer in Indian state of Madhya Pradesh was in for a huge shock when he rescued some leopard cubs while assuming them to be ‘kittens’. As a good samaritan and doing his bit for society and animals, the farmer at Bajrikheda village of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh brought the cubs to his home to take care of them, a report by Live Hindustan said.

A farmer in Indian state of Madhya Pradesh was in for a huge shock when he rescued some leopard cubs while assuming them to be ‘kittens’. As a good samaritan and doing his bit for society and animals, the farmer at Bajrikheda village of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh brought the cubs to his home to take care of them, a report by Live Hindustan said. Also Read: 'Shameful' rape remark in India's state assembly draws ire The farmer, who had found the animals at his farm land, made concerted efforts to feed and take care of them. Not just this, the farmer also gave them bath and spent time with them without any suspicion of them being leopard cubs. All went good for a few days until the farmer was shocked on one fine day after the animals started growling. This raised suspicion in the mind of the farmer that are these kittens or cubs of any other animal. Also Read: Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know So, the farmer discussed the matter with the neighbours first and then went to the forest department, who confirmed the suspicion that these were leopard cubs and not kittens. The animals were finally handed over to the forest officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Under presumption of ‘kittens’, Indian farmer rescues leopard cubs

When you can get a pizza in 30 minutes why should you wait for three days to identify a case of Omicron variant. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Well, now no one will have to as a team of Indian researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi have developed a mechanism to detect Omicron variant of Covid in just 90 minutes, a report by PTI said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The researchers have actually come up with an RT-PCR based assay for the detection of the new variant, said officials. &nbsp;

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At present, it takes over three days to detect Omicron variant worldwide as it is done using next-generation sequencing-based methods. &nbsp;

The rapid screening assay has been developed by Kusuma School of Biological Sciences of the institute. The application of the patent has also been filed. It is also in the process of holding discussions with potential industry partners. &nbsp;

A senior IIT Delhi official said, "The assay is based on detecting specific mutations, which are present in the Omicron variant and absent in other currently circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

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“Primer sets targeting these unique mutations in the S gene were designed for the specific amplification of either the Omicron variant or other currently circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 and tested using real time PCR," added the official. &nbsp;

"Using synthetic DNA fragments, the assays were optimised to distinguish the wild-type from the Omicron variant in a dynamic range,” the official further said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

When you can get a pizza in 30 minutes why should you wait for three days to identify a case of Omicron variant. Well, now no one will have to as a team of Indian researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi have developed a mechanism to detect Omicron variant of Covid in just 90 minutes, a report by PTI said.

When you can get a pizza in 30 minutes why should you wait for three days to identify a case of Omicron variant. Well, now no one will have to as a team of Indian researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi have developed a mechanism to detect Omicron variant of Covid in just 90 minutes, a report by PTI said. The researchers have actually come up with an RT-PCR based assay for the detection of the new variant, said officials. Also Read: First case of Omicron variant gets confirmed in mainland China, say reports At present, it takes over three days to detect Omicron variant worldwide as it is done using next-generation sequencing-based methods. The rapid screening assay has been developed by Kusuma School of Biological Sciences of the institute. The application of the patent has also been filed. It is also in the process of holding discussions with potential industry partners. A senior IIT Delhi official said, "The assay is based on detecting specific mutations, which are present in the Omicron variant and absent in other currently circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2.” Also Read: Now, South Korea to test facial recognition tech to track Covid-19 cases “Primer sets targeting these unique mutations in the S gene were designed for the specific amplification of either the Omicron variant or other currently circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 and tested using real time PCR," added the official. "Using synthetic DNA fragments, the assays were optimised to distinguish the wild-type from the Omicron variant in a dynamic range,” the official further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian researchers develop test to detect Omicron variant in just 90 min

In a speech at the inauguration of the first phase of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked Mahadev Lord Shiv on Monday. &nbsp;

The prime minister said there is only one government in Kashi and it is of Lord Shiv. Modi said, “Nothing happens without Shiv's blessings.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashi-vishwanath-corridor-inauguration-pm-offers-prayers-honours-sanitation-workers-436479" hreflang="en">Kashi Vishwanath Corridor inauguration: PM offers prayers, honours sanitation workers</a>

The PM talked about Kashi’s significance in the history. “For years, Kashi has stood tall even after facing the test of time. Kashi has seen several ups and downs in history. It also faced several tyrants in history like Aurangzeb,” said Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The leader also talked in the local lingo at the event. “History is being created today. The Vishwanath Temple is a reflection of culture,” added Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kashi Vishwanath Dham will spread over five lakh square feet and connect the temple premises to the Ganga river and also provide several facilities to devotees. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-2022-foreign-destinations-uae-germany-denmark-indonesia-russia-japan-sri-lanka-rwanda-436344" hreflang="en">PM Modi's 2022 foreign destinations: UAE, Germany, Denmark, Indonesia, Russia, Japan, Sri Lanka &amp; Rwanda</a>

“Temples that disappeared were reestablished here. The ancient and present are intermingling today,” added the PM. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Modi also urged people to make a commitment to 'swachhta', 'srijan' and 'aatmanirbhar' India.&nbsp;

“The inauguration of Kashi Vishwanath Dham will give decisive direction to India and&nbsp;herald bright future,” said PM Modi.&nbsp;

On arriving in Kashi, the leader paid obeisance at Kaal Bhairav Temple and also took dip in Ganga. &nbsp;

BJP President J P Nadda, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and a large number of saints from the country also attended the event. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a speech at the inauguration of the first phase of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked Mahadev Lord Shiv on Monday. The prime minister said there is only one government in Kashi and it is of Lord Shiv.

In a speech at the inauguration of the first phase of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked Mahadev Lord Shiv on Monday. The prime minister said there is only one government in Kashi and it is of Lord Shiv. Modi said, “Nothing happens without Shiv's blessings.” Also Read: Kashi Vishwanath Corridor inauguration: PM offers prayers, honours sanitation workers The PM talked about Kashi’s significance in the history. “For years, Kashi has stood tall even after facing the test of time. Kashi has seen several ups and downs in history. It also faced several tyrants in history like Aurangzeb,” said Modi. The leader also talked in the local lingo at the event. “History is being created today. The Vishwanath Temple is a reflection of culture,” added Modi. Kashi Vishwanath Dham will spread over five lakh square feet and connect the temple premises to the Ganga river and also provide several facilities to devotees. Also Read: PM Modi's 2022 foreign destinations: UAE, Germany, Denmark, Indonesia, Russia, Japan, Sri Lanka & Rwanda “Temples that disappeared were reestablished here. The ancient and present are intermingling today,” added the PM. Modi also urged people to make a commitment to 'swachhta', 'srijan' and 'aatmanirbhar' India. “The inauguration of Kashi Vishwanath Dham will give decisive direction to India and herald bright future,” said PM Modi. On arriving in Kashi, the leader paid obeisance at Kaal Bhairav Temple and also took dip in Ganga. BJP President J P Nadda, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and a large number of saints from the country also attended the event. (With inputs from agencies)

Kashi Vishwanath Corridor inauguration: Indian PM Modi invokes Mahadev Lord Shiva in Varanasi

In order to give respite to over 29 lakh farmers from irrigation woes, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday unveiled Saryu Canal National Project in India’s state of Uttar Pradesh. &nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the crowd as he arrives at the inauguration event of Saryu Nahar National Project in Balrampur. <a href="https://t.co/V2xBzJ6zZr">pic.twitter.com/V2xBzJ6zZr</a>
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The project, which will provide water for irrigation to over 14 lakh hectares of land, has come up at a cost of over Rs 9,800 crore. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-variant-in-india-section-144-imposed-in-mumbai-second-confirmed-case-in-delhi-436012" hreflang="en">Omicron variant in India: Section 144 imposed in Mumbai; second confirmed case in Delhi</a>

More than Rs 4,600 crore was given for the project in the last four years. &nbsp;

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Doctors are working hard to save the life of Group Captain Varun Singh. I pray to Maa Pateshwari to save his life. The nations stands with his family. The country also stands with the families who lost those brave soldiers: PM Narendra Modi in Balrampur <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNaduChopperCrash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNaduChopperCrash</a> <a href="https://t.co/j78chCjMf2">pic.twitter.com/j78chCjMf2</a>
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At the inauguration ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Union Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were also present. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Balrampur: PM remembers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CDSGeneralBipinRawat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CDSGeneralBipinRawat</a> &amp; others who lost their lives in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNaduChopperCrash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNaduChopperCrash</a>. He says, "...I express condolences to all brave warriors who died in Dec 8 crash...India is mourning but despite being in pain India won't stop or be at a standstill.." <a href="https://t.co/H0r21hv6c2">pic.twitter.com/H0r21hv6c2</a>
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To ensure optimum usage of water resources, the Saryu canal project also includes interlinking of five rivers, such as Saryu, Rapti, Ghaghara, Banganga and Rohini, of the region. &nbsp;

India's prime minister also remembered CDS General Bipin Rawat who died in a helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu this week.&nbsp;

"I express condolences to all brave warriors who died in the December&nbsp;8 crash. India is mourning but despite being in pain India won't stop or be at a standstill," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-send-humanitarian-aid-to-afghanistan-on-saturday-435949" hreflang="en">India to send humanitarian aid to Afghanistan on Saturday</a>

According to an official statement, the work on the project had begun in 1978. Due to lack of budgetary support, interdepartmental coordination and adequate monitoring, the project got delayed and was not completed even after four decades. &nbsp;

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We launched projects of Rs 10,000cr on Dec 7 &amp;had inaugurated 9 medical colleges in Siddharthnagar &amp; 1 international airport in Kushinagar. Saryu Nahar National Project was approved in 1972, the year I was born. I grew up but it never got completed:CM Yogi Adityanath in Balrampur <a href="https://t.co/uzZGOIlyfH">pic.twitter.com/uzZGOIlyfH</a>
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The project was brought under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana in 2016 to complete it in a time-bound manner. It was completed in only about four years due to the renewed focus, it said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In order to give respite to over 29 lakh farmers from irrigation woes, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday unveiled Saryu Canal National Project in India’s state of Uttar Pradesh.

In order to give respite to over 29 lakh farmers from irrigation woes, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday unveiled Saryu Canal National Project in India’s state of Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the crowd as he arrives at the inauguration event of Saryu Nahar National Project in Balrampur. pic.twitter.com/V2xBzJ6zZr — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 11, 2021 × The project, which will provide water for irrigation to over 14 lakh hectares of land, has come up at a cost of over Rs 9,800 crore. Also Read | Omicron variant in India: Section 144 imposed in Mumbai; second confirmed case in Delhi More than Rs 4,600 crore was given for the project in the last four years. Doctors are working hard to save the life of Group Captain Varun Singh. I pray to Maa Pateshwari to save his life. The nations stands with his family. The country also stands with the families who lost those brave soldiers: PM Narendra Modi in Balrampur #TamilNaduChopperCrash pic.twitter.com/j78chCjMf2 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 11, 2021 × At the inauguration ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Union Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were also present. #WATCH | Balrampur: PM remembers #CDSGeneralBipinRawat & others who lost their lives in #TamilNaduChopperCrash. He says, "...I express condolences to all brave warriors who died in Dec 8 crash...India is mourning but despite being in pain India won't stop or be at a standstill.." pic.twitter.com/H0r21hv6c2 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 11, 2021 × To ensure optimum usage of water resources, the Saryu canal project also includes interlinking of five rivers, such as Saryu, Rapti, Ghaghara, Banganga and Rohini, of the region. India's prime minister also remembered CDS General Bipin Rawat who died in a helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu this week. "I express condolences to all brave warriors who died in the December 8 crash. India is mourning but despite being in pain India won't stop or be at a standstill," he said. Also Read: India to send humanitarian aid to Afghanistan on Saturday According to an official statement, the work on the project had begun in 1978. Due to lack of budgetary support, interdepartmental coordination and adequate monitoring, the project got delayed and was not completed even after four decades. We launched projects of Rs 10,000cr on Dec 7 &had inaugurated 9 medical colleges in Siddharthnagar & 1 international airport in Kushinagar. Saryu Nahar National Project was approved in 1972, the year I was born. I grew up but it never got completed:CM Yogi Adityanath in Balrampur pic.twitter.com/uzZGOIlyfH — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 11, 2021 × The project was brought under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana in 2016 to complete it in a time-bound manner. It was completed in only about four years due to the renewed focus, it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi unveils Saryu canal project; remembers General Bipin Rawat

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians.&nbsp;The deity was among yogini, female religious figures, which went missing between 1979 and 1982.

According to a report by the Guardian, the sculpture, which has been found in an English country garden, will be given to the High Commission of India in London.

An expert in the field of recovering stolen and missing art Christopher Marinello is to be thanked for the recovery. “This piece is considered a god, not just a sculpture," he said.

It has been reported that one of the world's largest auctioneers, Sotheby's offered the statue for sale in 1988. Also, in 1997, the statue was one among the looted antiquities which were&nbsp;featured in the former journalist Peter Watson’s book, titled "Sotheby’s: Inside Story."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-is-in-the-bin-british-artist-banksys-half-shredded-picture-sells-for-record-25-million-420854">Also read |&nbsp;'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million</a>

He secretly filmed Indian dealers who claimed that they had supplied a lot of objects which were sold at Sotheby’s in London.

The auctioneer received a lot of criticism from experts. Earlier as well, the auctioneer had faced serious allegations for encouraging the looting of ancient Indian religious sites.

Another expert, Vijay Kumar said, "It’s such a unique sculpture. It’s been a dream to find her. I was actually beginning to lose hope.”

Elaborating on the same, Kumar further said, "Sotheby’s, as I understand, pulled this from their auction, though that is still unclear. What was shocking was that they did not reveal the consignor or turn over the details to the Metropolitan police, even during the investigations in 1998, when Watson broke the story."

He said what shocked him the most is that it could remain in the UK for over 20 years after being listed as stolen.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians.

Several years ago, an important statue of a goddess was stolen from an Indian village Lokhari. The stolen statue of an 8th-century goat-headed deity has now been found as an answer to the prayer of millions of Indians. The deity was among yogini, female religious figures, which went missing between 1979 and 1982. According to a report by the Guardian, the sculpture, which has been found in an English country garden, will be given to the High Commission of India in London. An expert in the field of recovering stolen and missing art Christopher Marinello is to be thanked for the recovery. “This piece is considered a god, not just a sculpture," he said. It has been reported that one of the world's largest auctioneers, Sotheby's offered the statue for sale in 1988. Also, in 1997, the statue was one among the looted antiquities which were featured in the former journalist Peter Watson’s book, titled "Sotheby’s: Inside Story." Also read | 'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million He secretly filmed Indian dealers who claimed that they had supplied a lot of objects which were sold at Sotheby’s in London. The auctioneer received a lot of criticism from experts. Earlier as well, the auctioneer had faced serious allegations for encouraging the looting of ancient Indian religious sites. Another expert, Vijay Kumar said, "It’s such a unique sculpture. It’s been a dream to find her. I was actually beginning to lose hope.” Elaborating on the same, Kumar further said, "Sotheby’s, as I understand, pulled this from their auction, though that is still unclear. What was shocking was that they did not reveal the consignor or turn over the details to the Metropolitan police, even during the investigations in 1998, when Watson broke the story." He said what shocked him the most is that it could remain in the UK for over 20 years after being listed as stolen. (With inputs from agencies)

Stolen 8th-century Indian goat-headed deity found in England; soon to be returned to India

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxygen-on-moons-surface-may-keep-billions-alive-for-100000-years-428560" hreflang="en">Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years &nbsp;</a>

Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astronomers-identify-moons-small-chunk-tracking-earths-orbit-around-sun-428748" hreflang="en">Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun</a>

“Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover.

The Indian and Japanese space agencies are planning a joint mission to the Moon, that is meant to explore the Polar region. The mission, which will be known as Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX), will feature an Indian lunar lander and a Japanese rover. Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) revealed this and Japan’s future mission plans, at the Sydney Dialogue, an initiative by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Also Read: Oxygen on Moon's surface may keep billions alive for 100,000 years Speaking of International cooperation, Dr Yamakawa said that the International Space Station was a great example, as it had ensured the continuous presence of humankind in space for more than two decades. On the need for greater collaboration between Quad countries (US-Japan-Australia-India), he added that the future lunar exploration had to be a joint effort, as there existed the possibility of having a manned space station in the vicinity of the moon, which can enable sustained exploration in the region and also on the lunar surface. The Japanese Space agency head emphasised on the need for multi-national missions to Mars that would be led by Quad countries, owing to the high costs of manned missions. Referring to the successful Hayabusa 2 mission, he threw light on how Japan had developed the capability to land rovers on an asteroid, remain there, collect samples and return them back to earth. Hayabusa 2 spacecraft arrived on asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, deployed rovers and landers to collect samples and then delivered it to earth on December 6, 2020 as the spacecraft swooped by earth and dropped a landing capsule containing the samples. On Japan’s planned Mars mission, he said that the country saw the future of Mars exploration as a mix of unmanned robotic and manned. Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission aims to study Mars’ moons Phobos and Deimos, while also collecting a sample from Phobos and returning it to Earth. Also Read: Astronomers identify moon’s small chunk tracking Earth’s orbit around Sun “Multilateral international cooperation is ideal and realistic than going alone, each one can contribute in the field of their technical expertise and share the cost” he urged the heads of Quad Country Space bodies. This announcement on the LUPEX mission with India comes at a time when many countries are teaming up with America for the Artemis programme that aims to get humans back to the moon, establish a long-term human presence and enable further exploration. This plan is also a precursor to the mission to send astronauts to Mars. India, however, has not made any announcements pertaining to any collaboration with the Artemis mission.

Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official

In a veiled dig at China, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that "some irresponsible nations" with narrow partisan interests and hegemonic tendencies have come up with wrong definitions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). &nbsp;

Singh also added that it is a matter of concern that UNCLOS is being repeatedly weakened by arbitrary interpretation of its definition by some countries. The remarks came at the commissioning of Indian Navy's destroyer Visakhapatnam. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-features-of-indian-navys-visakhapatnam-destroyer-430798">Key features of Indian Navy's Visakhapatnam destroyer</a>

Packed with numerous missiles and anti-submarine rockets, indigenously-built stealth guided missile destroyer Visakhapatnam was commissioned. The top naval commanders were also present on the occasion. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The new ship is equipped with lethal weapons and sensors, which include medium and short-range guns, anti-submarine rockets, supersonic surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles and advanced electronic warfare and communication suits, the officials said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ship is a shining example of self-reliance, said Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-wife-of-indian-army-martyr-joins-army-daughter-calls-her-best-mother-in-the-world-430801" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Wife of Indian Army martyr joins army; daughter calls her 'best mother in the world'</a>

The defence minister also said that as a responsible maritime stakeholder, India has been supporting consensus-based principles and a peaceful, open and rules-based stable maritime order. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India also looks to ensure that Indo-Pacific has freedom of navigation, free trade and universal values where interests of all stakeholders are protected, the minister added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a veiled dig at China, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that "some irresponsible nations" with narrow partisan interests and hegemonic tendencies have come up with wrong definitions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In a veiled dig at China, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that "some irresponsible nations" with narrow partisan interests and hegemonic tendencies have come up with wrong definitions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Singh also added that it is a matter of concern that UNCLOS is being repeatedly weakened by arbitrary interpretation of its definition by some countries. The remarks came at the commissioning of Indian Navy's destroyer Visakhapatnam. Also Read: Key features of Indian Navy's Visakhapatnam destroyer Packed with numerous missiles and anti-submarine rockets, indigenously-built stealth guided missile destroyer Visakhapatnam was commissioned. The top naval commanders were also present on the occasion. The new ship is equipped with lethal weapons and sensors, which include medium and short-range guns, anti-submarine rockets, supersonic surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles and advanced electronic warfare and communication suits, the officials said. The ship is a shining example of self-reliance, said Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff. Also Read | Exclusive: Wife of Indian Army martyr joins army; daughter calls her 'best mother in the world' The defence minister also said that as a responsible maritime stakeholder, India has been supporting consensus-based principles and a peaceful, open and rules-based stable maritime order. India also looks to ensure that Indo-Pacific has freedom of navigation, free trade and universal values where interests of all stakeholders are protected, the minister added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian defence minister takes a veiled dig at China as new destroyer gets commissioned

In an address to the nation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the government has decided to repeal the three farm laws. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Several farmers had been protesting against these laws for a long time. The leader also appealed these farmers to return home. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-sc-sets-aside-lower-courts-ruling-that-skin-to-skin-contact-is-essential-for-sexual-offence-case-430241" hreflang="en">India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case</a>

On the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Modi said in the address that the laws were meant to benefit the farmers and also apologised to people of the country as the government could not convince a section of farmers. &nbsp;

He said that the government had clear heart and clean conscience. &nbsp;

Watch | India: 'Three contentious farm laws to be repealed,' PM Narendra Modi's big address&nbsp;to nation

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"There may have been some shortcoming in our efforts due to which we could not explain the truth, as clear as the light of the diya, to some of our farmer brothers," Modi said. &nbsp;

As it is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, it is not the time to blame anyone, Modi added. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/paytm-indias-largest-ipo-tanks-on-debut-what-really-happened-430292" hreflang="en">Paytm: India's largest IPO tanks on debut - what really happened?</a>

"I have come to tell you that we have decided to repeal the three farm laws. In the upcoming Parliament session starting at the end of this month, we will complete the constitutional process to repeal the three farm laws," the leader said. &nbsp;

"I would request all my protesting farmer friends, today is the auspicious day of Guru Purab, return home, to your fields and family and make a new beginning, let us move forward afresh," the PM said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an address to the nation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the government has decided to repeal the three farm laws. Several farmers had been protesting against these laws for a long time.

In an address to the nation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the government has decided to repeal the three farm laws. Several farmers had been protesting against these laws for a long time. The leader also appealed these farmers to return home. Also Read: India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case On the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Modi said in the address that the laws were meant to benefit the farmers and also apologised to people of the country as the government could not convince a section of farmers. He said that the government had clear heart and clean conscience. Watch | India: 'Three contentious farm laws to be repealed,' PM Narendra Modi's big address to nation × "There may have been some shortcoming in our efforts due to which we could not explain the truth, as clear as the light of the diya, to some of our farmer brothers," Modi said. As it is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, it is not the time to blame anyone, Modi added. Also Read | Paytm: India's largest IPO tanks on debut - what really happened? "I have come to tell you that we have decided to repeal the three farm laws. In the upcoming Parliament session starting at the end of this month, we will complete the constitutional process to repeal the three farm laws," the leader said. "I would request all my protesting farmer friends, today is the auspicious day of Guru Purab, return home, to your fields and family and make a new beginning, let us move forward afresh," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi repeals three controversial farm laws, asks protesting farmers to return home

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday. &nbsp;

The Kartarpur corridor links Pakistan’s Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, which is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India’s Gurdaspur district of Punjab state. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-pm-modi-arrives-in-air-forces-c-130j-super-hercules-plane-to-inaugurate-highway-429722" hreflang="en">India’s PM Modi arrives in Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane to inaugurate highway</a>

The decision reflects the Indian government's immense reverence for Guru Nanak Dev and the Sikh community, said Shah. &nbsp;

"In a major decision, that will benefit large numbers of Sikh pilgrims, PM @Narendramodi govt has decided to re-open the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from tomorrow, November 17. This decision reflects the immense reverence of Modi government towards Guru Nanak Dev and our Sikh community," Shah said in a tweet. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-allows-quarantine-free-entry-of-vaccinated-foreign-nationals-from-99-countries-429678" hreflang="en">India allows quarantine-free entry of vaccinated foreign nationals from 99 countries</a>

The nation is all set to celebrate the Prakash Utsav of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev on November 19, the home minister said. &nbsp;

The leader was also confident that this move will further "boost the joy and happiness across the country". &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday.

With Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev in mind, the Indian government has finally decided to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib corridor from Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday. The Kartarpur corridor links Pakistan’s Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, which is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India’s Gurdaspur district of Punjab state. Also Read: India’s PM Modi arrives in Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules plane to inaugurate highway The decision reflects the Indian government's immense reverence for Guru Nanak Dev and the Sikh community, said Shah. "In a major decision, that will benefit large numbers of Sikh pilgrims, PM @Narendramodi govt has decided to re-open the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from tomorrow, November 17. This decision reflects the immense reverence of Modi government towards Guru Nanak Dev and our Sikh community," Shah said in a tweet. Also Read: India allows quarantine-free entry of vaccinated foreign nationals from 99 countries The nation is all set to celebrate the Prakash Utsav of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev on November 19, the home minister said. The leader was also confident that this move will further "boost the joy and happiness across the country". (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt to reopen Kartarpur corridor tomorrow, says Union Home Minister Amit Shah

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The director general of ICCR Dinesh K Patnaik held meetings with spiritual organisations in the country last week to evolve a strategy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, he said, "Spirituality as soft power has not been used by the government. A lot of spiritual organisations in India have centers abroad. The idea is to work with organisations, which are already in the field and government organisations like ministry of Ayush, ICCR, MEA, Ministry of health, etc to work together to share the great treasure we have with rest of the world." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-situation-very-serious-in-new-delhi-says-indias-cji-nv-ramana-428954" hreflang="en">Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana</a>

Founded in 1950, ICCR is an autonomous body under the ministry of external affairs. Its main function is to work towards the spread of Indian culture. Last week, ICCR organised a programme for foreign diplomats based in India on spirituality traditions. The programme was a full house. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ICCR DG explained, "ICCR's job is to take Indian culture abroad. Spirituality, yoga, Indic traditions and other traditions of India is a large part of our culture. ICCR is trying to make spirituality and yogic tradition a part of our soft power." &nbsp;

One of the major initiatives to spread Indian tradition was Indian PM Modi's proposal at the United Nations to celebrate June 21 as Yoga Day. He gave the proposal during his first address at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-bimal-patel-elected-to-uns-international-law-commission-for-5-yr-term-428919" hreflang="en">India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term</a>

Since then, the celebrations on Yoga Day have grown in size. Indian missions have been engaged in spread of yoga, including yoga certification programmes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dinesh Patnaik highlighted, "Spirituality is where mind and matter get&nbsp;together. There are many spiritual organisations, which spread spirituality across the world. Especially at a time like this, our spirituality, our age-old traditions give us a wonderful opportunity to give solace to the world." &nbsp;

Rishikesh is one of the key locations in India, which have seen a lot of foreign visitors. In fact, spirituality is one of the biggest searches on Google.&nbsp;

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts.

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts. The director general of ICCR Dinesh K Patnaik held meetings with spiritual organisations in the country last week to evolve a strategy. Speaking to WION, he said, "Spirituality as soft power has not been used by the government. A lot of spiritual organisations in India have centers abroad. The idea is to work with organisations, which are already in the field and government organisations like ministry of Ayush, ICCR, MEA, Ministry of health, etc to work together to share the great treasure we have with rest of the world." Also Read: Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana Founded in 1950, ICCR is an autonomous body under the ministry of external affairs. Its main function is to work towards the spread of Indian culture. Last week, ICCR organised a programme for foreign diplomats based in India on spirituality traditions. The programme was a full house. ICCR DG explained, "ICCR's job is to take Indian culture abroad. Spirituality, yoga, Indic traditions and other traditions of India is a large part of our culture. ICCR is trying to make spirituality and yogic tradition a part of our soft power." One of the major initiatives to spread Indian tradition was Indian PM Modi's proposal at the United Nations to celebrate June 21 as Yoga Day. He gave the proposal during his first address at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. Also Read: India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term Since then, the celebrations on Yoga Day have grown in size. Indian missions have been engaged in spread of yoga, including yoga certification programmes. Dinesh Patnaik highlighted, "Spirituality is where mind and matter get together. There are many spiritual organisations, which spread spirituality across the world. Especially at a time like this, our spirituality, our age-old traditions give us a wonderful opportunity to give solace to the world." Rishikesh is one of the key locations in India, which have seen a lot of foreign visitors. In fact, spirituality is one of the biggest searches on Google.

Indian government's ICCR working to spread 'spirituality as soft power'

According to the Indian Railways (South Western Railways), a mishap took place in the wee hours of Friday as the Kannur-Bengaluru express train was travelling through Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Dharmapuri district. &nbsp;

At around 3:50 am, boulders suddenly fell on the moving train, thus damaging seven coaches -B1, B2, S6, S7, S8, S9 and S10. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/srinagar-3-terrorists-killed-in-two-encounters-in-24-hours-in-the-valley-428613" hreflang="en">Srinagar: 3 terrorists killed in two encounters in 24 hours in the valley</a>

A Railway team comprising of senior staff and doctors visited the spot, which was between Toppur and Sivadi, within an hour of the accident, said, all 2,348 passengers on-board were safe and that no casualty or injury was reported.

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All 2348 pasngrs safe, after 7 coaches of kannur-bengaluru xprs derailed while passing via Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu, owing to boulders falling on moving train 
 
Train coaches are upright, but wheels appear to be dislodged from track 
 
Rlys taking all pax to Blr via bus<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/railway?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#railway</a> <a href="https://t.co/7WhZ1cBweD">pic.twitter.com/7WhZ1cBweD</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1459010984232636425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The pictures of the spot show the train on the tracks, however, a side-view reveals that the bottom portion of several coaches, including the wheels and the other parts have been damaged. While the coaches appear to be on the tracks, at some portions, the wheels appear to be dislodged from the tracks. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-speeding-bus-crashes-into-toll-booth-in-indias-gujarat-injures-15-428527" hreflang="en">Watch: Speeding bus crashes into toll booth in India’s Gujarat, injures 15</a>

The train comprising of 20 coaches had departed from Kannur, Kerala at 6:05 pm on Thursday. Following the accident and the inspection by officials, different portions of the train have been moved to nearby stations, from where the railways have arranged buses to Bengaluru. &nbsp;

The passengers were provided with water and light refreshment at the spot, said the railways. They added that a help desk has been setup at Hosur (04344-222603), Bengaluru (080-22156554) and Dharmapuri (04342-232111).&nbsp;

According to the Indian Railways (South Western Railways), a mishap took place in the wee hours of Friday as the Kannur-Bengaluru express train was travelling through Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Dharmapuri district.

According to the Indian Railways (South Western Railways), a mishap took place in the wee hours of Friday as the Kannur-Bengaluru express train was travelling through Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Dharmapuri district. At around 3:50 am, boulders suddenly fell on the moving train, thus damaging seven coaches -B1, B2, S6, S7, S8, S9 and S10. Also Read | Srinagar: 3 terrorists killed in two encounters in 24 hours in the valley A Railway team comprising of senior staff and doctors visited the spot, which was between Toppur and Sivadi, within an hour of the accident, said, all 2,348 passengers on-board were safe and that no casualty or injury was reported. All 2348 pasngrs safe, after 7 coaches of kannur-bengaluru xprs derailed while passing via Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu, owing to boulders falling on moving train Train coaches are upright, but wheels appear to be dislodged from track Rlys taking all pax to Blr via bus#railway pic.twitter.com/7WhZ1cBweD — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) November 12, 2021 × The pictures of the spot show the train on the tracks, however, a side-view reveals that the bottom portion of several coaches, including the wheels and the other parts have been damaged. While the coaches appear to be on the tracks, at some portions, the wheels appear to be dislodged from the tracks. Also Read | Watch: Speeding bus crashes into toll booth in India’s Gujarat, injures 15 The train comprising of 20 coaches had departed from Kannur, Kerala at 6:05 pm on Thursday. Following the accident and the inspection by officials, different portions of the train have been moved to nearby stations, from where the railways have arranged buses to Bengaluru. The passengers were provided with water and light refreshment at the spot, said the railways. They added that a help desk has been setup at Hosur (04344-222603), Bengaluru (080-22156554) and Dharmapuri (04342-232111).

Passengers safe after boulders fall on Indian train damaging coaches

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, &nbsp;Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26.

Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtra's Environment Minister, received the award on behalf of the state.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event in Glasgow, he said, "We strongly believe that it is high time we put in collective efforts and meaningful actions to work on this global issue that sees no borders of geography, race, nationality or gender. We are truly delighted to have been recognised by the Under2 Coalition for our heartfelt ongoing contribution towards climate action."

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This morning, in my keynote address at the <a href="https://twitter.com/ClimateGroup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ClimateGroup</a>’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Under2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Under2</a> General Assembly, I highlighted the urgent need for states and sub-national governments to collectively &amp; immediately act on climate change. <a href="https://t.co/ubPUzXCxMS">pic.twitter.com/ubPUzXCxMS</a>
— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) <a href="https://twitter.com/AUThackeray/status/1457412397321228289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"This state wants to lead the way in India to tackle climate change. The Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) is a passionate wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, and he has given us the opportunity to dream of a better future, a greener future. We have started with a movement called Majhi Vasundhara, which means My Planet. We are focussing on the traditional five elements of nature."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/glasgow-protests-protesters-perform-a-zombie-die-in-over-200-events-planned-worldwide-427579">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide</a>

The award highlighted how the state government had succeeded in creating a culture of climate action in Maharashtra, which happens to be India's most industrialised state with a 720 km long vulnerable coastline.

Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to work on how to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius.

At the halfway stage of the COP26 negotiations, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal.&nbsp;

The countries have also pledged to foreign fossil fuel funding, and slashing methane.

With just 1.1C of warming so far, communities across the world are already facing ever more intense fire and drought, displacement and economic ruin wrought by global heating.

Also, a major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels.

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26.

Maharashtra has won the Inspiring Regional Leadership Award from Under2 Coalition for Climate Action. By winning this award, Maharashtra became the only Indian state to win an award at COP26. Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtra's Environment Minister, received the award on behalf of the state. Speaking at the event in Glasgow, he said, "We strongly believe that it is high time we put in collective efforts and meaningful actions to work on this global issue that sees no borders of geography, race, nationality or gender. We are truly delighted to have been recognised by the Under2 Coalition for our heartfelt ongoing contribution towards climate action." This morning, in my keynote address at the @ClimateGroup’s #Under2 General Assembly, I highlighted the urgent need for states and sub-national governments to collectively & immediately act on climate change. pic.twitter.com/ubPUzXCxMS — Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) November 7, 2021 × "This state wants to lead the way in India to tackle climate change. The Chief Minister (Uddhav Thackeray) is a passionate wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, and he has given us the opportunity to dream of a better future, a greener future. We have started with a movement called Majhi Vasundhara, which means My Planet. We are focussing on the traditional five elements of nature." Also read | Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide The award highlighted how the state government had succeeded in creating a culture of climate action in Maharashtra, which happens to be India's most industrialised state with a 720 km long vulnerable coastline. Delegates from nearly 200 countries are in Glasgow to work on how to meet the Paris Agreement goals of limiting temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius. At the halfway stage of the COP26 negotiations, some countries have upgraded their existing pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while there have been separate deals on phasing out coal. The countries have also pledged to foreign fossil fuel funding, and slashing methane. With just 1.1C of warming so far, communities across the world are already facing ever more intense fire and drought, displacement and economic ruin wrought by global heating. Also, a major assessment last week showed global CO2 emissions were set to rebound in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels.

Maharashtra becomes only Indian state to win award at COP26

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt. This meant the the PM’s movement between hotel and venue were coordinated according to leader’s other engagements. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/palestines-pm-seeks-indias-support-at-international-forums-427083" hreflang="en">Palestine's PM seeks India's support at international forums</a>

The Indian delegation was also in Indian PM's hotel. This may sound easy, but when a country is hosting mega summits, hotel space and bookings are impossible to get. Especially with thousands of journalists, delegations, activists also descending to the particular city. This is especially cumbersome in a post-Covid crisis world where protocols need to be followed. Remember, many countries had their delegation divide into several hotels across Rome and Glasgow during last week's key summits. &nbsp;

Interestingly, hosts had also provided flexibility in order to accommodate India’s other bilateral engagements. Indian Prime Minister had over 15 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of G20 and COP26 summit.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-in-kedarnath-modi-offers-prayers-unveils-adi-shankaracharya-statue-426909" hreflang="en">PM in Kedarnath: Modi offers prayers, unveils Adi Shankaracharya statue</a>

This included meetings with Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi, French President Emmanuel Macron, outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel in Rome and the new Prime Minister of Nepal Sher Bahadur Deuba, Israel PM Naftali Bennett, UK PM Boris Johnson at Glasgow. He also met Indian community members in a Covid complaint protocol in Italy and Glasgow. &nbsp;

This year's G20 summit is happening in-person since 2019. Last year's summit was virtual for the first time due to Covid crisis since the group came into being since the 2008. India will be hosting the summit in 2023, which will be the first time, the country hosts the summit.&nbsp;

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt.

Mega summits are always a logistics nightmare, and when heads of state of over a dozen countries are coming, it is a challenge in every sense. Even amidst challenge, hosts Italy and UK for the G20 and Glasgow COP26 climate summit gave "special protocol consideration" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian delegation, it is learnt. This meant the the PM’s movement between hotel and venue were coordinated according to leader’s other engagements. Also Read: Palestine's PM seeks India's support at international forums The Indian delegation was also in Indian PM's hotel. This may sound easy, but when a country is hosting mega summits, hotel space and bookings are impossible to get. Especially with thousands of journalists, delegations, activists also descending to the particular city. This is especially cumbersome in a post-Covid crisis world where protocols need to be followed. Remember, many countries had their delegation divide into several hotels across Rome and Glasgow during last week's key summits. Interestingly, hosts had also provided flexibility in order to accommodate India’s other bilateral engagements. Indian Prime Minister had over 15 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of G20 and COP26 summit. Also Read | PM in Kedarnath: Modi offers prayers, unveils Adi Shankaracharya statue This included meetings with Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi, French President Emmanuel Macron, outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel in Rome and the new Prime Minister of Nepal Sher Bahadur Deuba, Israel PM Naftali Bennett, UK PM Boris Johnson at Glasgow. He also met Indian community members in a Covid complaint protocol in Italy and Glasgow. This year's G20 summit is happening in-person since 2019. Last year's summit was virtual for the first time due to Covid crisis since the group came into being since the 2008. India will be hosting the summit in 2023, which will be the first time, the country hosts the summit.

G20, COP26 saw special protocol for Indian PM Modi

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi added that the country will be able to achieve goals only if people stay united. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Be it land, water, air or space, India's capabilities and resolve are now unprecedented on every front, the leader said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-rome-modi-pitches-one-earth-one-health-vision-says-ready-to-produce-5-billion-covid-vaccines-425443">India ready to produce 5 billion Covid vaccines: PM Modi at G20 Summit</a>

"Sardar Patel always wanted India to be capable, inclusive, sensitive, alert, humble and developed. He always prioritised national interest," the leader said. &nbsp;

Getting inspiration from him, the country is today becoming fully capable of meeting both external and internal challenges, the PM said. &nbsp;

“Today the nation is paying tribute to Sardar Patel, who gave his life for 'Ek Bharat, shreshth Bharat'. Sardar Patel lives not only in history but also the hearts of all Indians,” added&nbsp;Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-attend-supply-chain-resilience-event-hosted-by-us-president-joe-biden-in-rome-425458" hreflang="en">Modi to attend ‘Supply Chain Resilience’ event hosted by US Biden in Rome</a>

The country has been freed of many decades-old unwanted laws in seven years, he noted. &nbsp;

“Ideals that cherish national unity have been given new heights. Be it J&amp;K, Northeast or any village in the Himalayas, today all are on the path of progress. The development of modern infrastructure in the country is reducing the gap between geographical and historic distances,” said Modi. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge.

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge. Modi added that the country will be able to achieve goals only if people stay united. Be it land, water, air or space, India's capabilities and resolve are now unprecedented on every front, the leader said. Also Read | India ready to produce 5 billion Covid vaccines: PM Modi at G20 Summit "Sardar Patel always wanted India to be capable, inclusive, sensitive, alert, humble and developed. He always prioritised national interest," the leader said. Getting inspiration from him, the country is today becoming fully capable of meeting both external and internal challenges, the PM said. “Today the nation is paying tribute to Sardar Patel, who gave his life for 'Ek Bharat, shreshth Bharat'. Sardar Patel lives not only in history but also the hearts of all Indians,” added Modi. Also Read: Modi to attend ‘Supply Chain Resilience’ event hosted by US Biden in Rome The country has been freed of many decades-old unwanted laws in seven years, he noted. “Ideals that cherish national unity have been given new heights. Be it J&K, Northeast or any village in the Himalayas, today all are on the path of progress. The development of modern infrastructure in the country is reducing the gap between geographical and historic distances,” said Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. &nbsp;

On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-capable-of-meeting-any-challenge-says-pm-modi-on-vallabhai-patels-birth-anniversary-425481" hreflang="en">India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary</a>

Entering the Pakistani airspace from Bahawalpur, Prime Minister Modi's plane Boeing 777, 300ER, K7066 passed through Turbat and Panjgur. It reached Italy via Iran and Turkey, reported The Express Tribune. &nbsp;

According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sources, Indian authorities requested Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to use the airspace for the special flight of the prime minister. Pakistan accepted the request and allowed Modi to fly through its airspace. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gifts-silver-candle-stand-book-on-indias-commitment-on-environment-to-pope-francis-425422" hreflang="en">PM Modi gifts silver candle stand, book on India's commitment on environment to Pope Francis</a>

On Friday, Modi arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit, where the heads of world's 20 biggest economies have gathered in Rome. The leaders are focusing on Covid, economy and climate issues. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The report quoted the CAA spokesperson as saying that the prime minister's plane will use airspace of Pakistan again on its way back to India after the climate summit in Glasgow. &nbsp;

Earlier, a commercial aircraft of India had also used Pakistani airspace after obtaining permission, the newspaper said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday.

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday. Also Read: India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary Entering the Pakistani airspace from Bahawalpur, Prime Minister Modi's plane Boeing 777, 300ER, K7066 passed through Turbat and Panjgur. It reached Italy via Iran and Turkey, reported The Express Tribune. According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sources, Indian authorities requested Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to use the airspace for the special flight of the prime minister. Pakistan accepted the request and allowed Modi to fly through its airspace. Also Read: PM Modi gifts silver candle stand, book on India's commitment on environment to Pope Francis On Friday, Modi arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit, where the heads of world's 20 biggest economies have gathered in Rome. The leaders are focusing on Covid, economy and climate issues. The report quoted the CAA spokesperson as saying that the prime minister's plane will use airspace of Pakistan again on its way back to India after the climate summit in Glasgow. Earlier, a commercial aircraft of India had also used Pakistani airspace after obtaining permission, the newspaper said. (With inputs from agencies)

En route to Italy for G20 Summit, Indian PM Modi’s flight flew over Pakistani airspace

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR&nbsp;is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries.

"I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights.

"I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-administer-next-billion-vaccines-in-next-3-4-months-vaccine-panel-head-422967">India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head</a>

"If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields.

The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday.

It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision.

Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it.

Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin.

He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day.

"If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop.

"I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back. Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries. "I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights. "I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine. Also Read | India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head "If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields. The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday. It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision. Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it. Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin. He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day. "If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop. "I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together. &nbsp;

This is Shah’s first visit after the Centre had revoked the erstwhile state's special status and bifurcated it into union territories on August 5, 2019. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-in-jk-for-first-visit-since-abrogation-of-article-370-meets-slain-cops-family-423383" hreflang="en">Amit Shah in J&amp;K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family</a>

In the rally in Bhagwati Nagar area, the home minister said no one will now be able to create any hurdle in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

Addressing the rally, he said Rs 12,000 crore worth of investment has already come to the union territory and the government aims to look at a total of Rs 51,000 crore by the 2022 end. &nbsp;

If the youth join the development of Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists will fail in their sinister plans, he asserted. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-to-visit-italy-and-uk-next-week-423350" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi to visit Italy and UK next week</a>

The home minister said the government looks to ensure that no civilian gets killed in violence and terrorism is wiped out from the state. &nbsp;

In and around the venue, police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in complete strength. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together.

At a public rally in Jammu and Kashmir during his three-day visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that the time for sidelining the people of Jammu has come to an end, and now both Kashmir and Jammu will be developed together. This is Shah’s first visit after the Centre had revoked the erstwhile state's special status and bifurcated it into union territories on August 5, 2019. Also Read: Amit Shah in J&K for first visit since abrogation of Article 370; meets slain cop's family In the rally in Bhagwati Nagar area, the home minister said no one will now be able to create any hurdle in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the rally, he said Rs 12,000 crore worth of investment has already come to the union territory and the government aims to look at a total of Rs 51,000 crore by the 2022 end. If the youth join the development of Jammu and Kashmir, terrorists will fail in their sinister plans, he asserted. Also Read: Indian PM Modi to visit Italy and UK next week The home minister said the government looks to ensure that no civilian gets killed in violence and terrorism is wiped out from the state. In and around the venue, police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in complete strength. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, both Kashmir, Jammu will get developed together, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah at rally

Mortal remains of Indian fisherman Rajkiran were repatriated on Saturday noon by the Sri Lankan Navy, by handing it over to an Indian fishing boat, near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) that separates both nations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The mortal remains were taken to the Kottaipattinam fishing hamlet in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukottai district. However, two other fishermen, who accompanied Rajkiran, on the same boat, continue to remain in Lankan custody. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Fishing communities in Ramanathapuram and Pudukottai districts of Tamil Nadu held a protest condemning the Indian and Tamil Nadu governments for allegedly not protecting fishermen. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-jammu-and-kashmir-turns-into-fortress-ahead-of-home-minister-amit-shahs-3-day-visit-423216" hreflang="en">India’s Jammu and Kashmir turns into fortress ahead of home minister Amit Shah’s 3-day visit</a>

They also angrily raised doubts over actions of Chief Minister MK Stalin, who had only offered Rs 10 lakh in compensation for the bereaved family, a meagre sum in comparison to the Rs 1 crore that Stalin used to demand, when he was an opposition leader. They also urged the Tamil Nadu and Indian Government to promulgate a law to protect fishermen. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Rajkiran, Xavier and Suganthiran left from their respective homes in the Kottaipattinam fishing hamlet in Southern Tamil Nadu, on Monday. On the same day, the fishing boat they were sailing in, ended up getting sunk near the Delft island (between India and Sri Lanka) owing to what the Sri Lankan Navy calls “a collision”, with their navy craft. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The fishing community from Ramanathapuram and Pudukottai districts in Tamil Nadu have been calling it a “deliberate action of colliding and sinking the Indian fishing boat”. They allege that the latest incident bears total resemblance to an incident from January this year - where a Lankan Navy Boat had allegedly crashed into an Indian fishing vessel, thus leading to the capture and torture and death of its four crew members. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a87a415-5840-4bd1-b480-bdebfbbefc99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fisherman%202.jpg" />

“The boat capsized because of them (Lankan forces), this was not an unexpected incident like they have been projecting. Their navy has radars and a collision like this can’t happen - they have chased the boat and it ended up like this. Sri Lanka is responsible,” complained Prabhakaran, a fisherman, who is said to have been traveling on another boat, that was near to the ill-fated one. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Regarding this incident, the Sri Lankan Navy has maintained that “the Indian vessel was poaching in Sri Lankan waters, across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), on Monday”. They added that the collision occurred when the Lankan Navy craft was chasing away Indian fishing boats. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“One of the Indian fishing trawlers, with aggressive manoeuvres, in resistance to the chasing away action, was on an attempt to evade from the scene, making it collide with SLN craft in operation. In the process, it ultimately descended having lost its stability as well as due to the rough sea condition,” read the Lankan Navy statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-11-of-17-missing-trekkers-found-dead-as-iafs-rescue-op-continues-423219" hreflang="en">Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues</a>&nbsp;

The issue between fishermen in Tamil Nadu and the Lankan Navy has been a long-standing and thorny one. It is often alleged that Indian fishermen deliberately head to Lankan waters and indulge in bottom trawling, an unsustainable fishing practice that affects the ecology and marine life in the long-term. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sri Lanka maintains that arrests of foreign fishermen are being done to protect the livelihood of their own fishing community. Recently, Lankan fishermen from the northern part of the island country had protested, demanding their government to act against Indian fishermen, who were trespassing into their waters. They made attempts to pressure the Indian and Sri Lankan authorities to act against those involved in illegal fishing. &nbsp;

According to India’s National Traditional Fishermen Federation, the latest incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy is seen as deliberate retribution for another recent untoward incident, which involved an Indian boat. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A few weeks back, a large Indian fishing trawler from Tamil Nadu had collided with and sunk&nbsp;a smaller Lankan fishing boat. While the Lankan boat was fully damaged and lost, the fishermen survived and returned to the shore. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is believed that, had the Indian Government or Tamil Nadu government taken some action against the errant Indian boat and offered compensation to the Lankan fishermen, things would have been amicably resolved. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian fishermen believe that holding talks between them and their Sri Lankan counterparts would help resolve some of the misunderstandings that are based on the recent collision and alleged trespass.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mortal remains of Indian fisherman Rajkiran were repatriated on Saturday noon by the Sri Lankan Navy, by handing it over to an Indian fishing boat, near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) that separates both nations.

Mortal remains of Indian fisherman Rajkiran were repatriated on Saturday noon by the Sri Lankan Navy, by handing it over to an Indian fishing boat, near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) that separates both nations. The mortal remains were taken to the Kottaipattinam fishing hamlet in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukottai district. However, two other fishermen, who accompanied Rajkiran, on the same boat, continue to remain in Lankan custody. Fishing communities in Ramanathapuram and Pudukottai districts of Tamil Nadu held a protest condemning the Indian and Tamil Nadu governments for allegedly not protecting fishermen. Also Read: India’s Jammu and Kashmir turns into fortress ahead of home minister Amit Shah’s 3-day visit They also angrily raised doubts over actions of Chief Minister MK Stalin, who had only offered Rs 10 lakh in compensation for the bereaved family, a meagre sum in comparison to the Rs 1 crore that Stalin used to demand, when he was an opposition leader. They also urged the Tamil Nadu and Indian Government to promulgate a law to protect fishermen. Rajkiran, Xavier and Suganthiran left from their respective homes in the Kottaipattinam fishing hamlet in Southern Tamil Nadu, on Monday. On the same day, the fishing boat they were sailing in, ended up getting sunk near the Delft island (between India and Sri Lanka) owing to what the Sri Lankan Navy calls “a collision”, with their navy craft. The fishing community from Ramanathapuram and Pudukottai districts in Tamil Nadu have been calling it a “deliberate action of colliding and sinking the Indian fishing boat”. They allege that the latest incident bears total resemblance to an incident from January this year - where a Lankan Navy Boat had allegedly crashed into an Indian fishing vessel, thus leading to the capture and torture and death of its four crew members. “The boat capsized because of them (Lankan forces), this was not an unexpected incident like they have been projecting. Their navy has radars and a collision like this can’t happen - they have chased the boat and it ended up like this. Sri Lanka is responsible,” complained Prabhakaran, a fisherman, who is said to have been traveling on another boat, that was near to the ill-fated one. Regarding this incident, the Sri Lankan Navy has maintained that “the Indian vessel was poaching in Sri Lankan waters, across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), on Monday”. They added that the collision occurred when the Lankan Navy craft was chasing away Indian fishing boats. “One of the Indian fishing trawlers, with aggressive manoeuvres, in resistance to the chasing away action, was on an attempt to evade from the scene, making it collide with SLN craft in operation. In the process, it ultimately descended having lost its stability as well as due to the rough sea condition,” read the Lankan Navy statement. Also Read | Uttarakhand: 11 of 17 missing trekkers found dead as IAF’s rescue op continues The issue between fishermen in Tamil Nadu and the Lankan Navy has been a long-standing and thorny one. It is often alleged that Indian fishermen deliberately head to Lankan waters and indulge in bottom trawling, an unsustainable fishing practice that affects the ecology and marine life in the long-term. Sri Lanka maintains that arrests of foreign fishermen are being done to protect the livelihood of their own fishing community. Recently, Lankan fishermen from the northern part of the island country had protested, demanding their government to act against Indian fishermen, who were trespassing into their waters. They made attempts to pressure the Indian and Sri Lankan authorities to act against those involved in illegal fishing. According to India’s National Traditional Fishermen Federation, the latest incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy is seen as deliberate retribution for another recent untoward incident, which involved an Indian boat. A few weeks back, a large Indian fishing trawler from Tamil Nadu had collided with and sunk a smaller Lankan fishing boat. While the Lankan boat was fully damaged and lost, the fishermen survived and returned to the shore. It is believed that, had the Indian Government or Tamil Nadu government taken some action against the errant Indian boat and offered compensation to the Lankan fishermen, things would have been amicably resolved. Indian fishermen believe that holding talks between them and their Sri Lankan counterparts would help resolve some of the misunderstandings that are based on the recent collision and alleged trespass.

Indian fisherman’s mortal remains returned by Lankan Navy; 2 still in custody  

Describing a well-planned conspiracy on the country's business sovereignty by foreign-funded companies like Amazon and Flipkart since 2016 to poison the e-commerce business, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAT) told Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal that American lawmakers have announced to present a bill whereas in India not only the government but all the political parties, responsible government agencies are silent which has generated lot of anger and resentment among the traders of the country.

 
CAIT said this attitude gives enough strength to the possibility that Amazon and other foreign companies have the protection of some people within the government administration for allowing it to violate the law at the cost of gross neglect of the domestic trading community.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeff-bezos-shares-an-old-article-predicting-amazons-failure-elon-musk-replies-419819">Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies</a>

It has announced to take out a Rath Yatra from November 15 in all the states of the country, protesting against the abuse of dominance and other malpractices continued by Amazon and other foreign funded companies in India.

CAIT said that citing evidence in a news story recently published in the media, it was clearly stated that Amazon copies the products of Indian small manufacturers and involved a rigging in the search and selling the copied products at much lower prices thereby killing the entrepreneurial skills and potential of the country, which also contravene the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'&nbsp;agenda of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"But it is very surprising that till date no government department or ministry has taken any cognizance of it and despite complaining no action has been taken, what is to be understood from this?" CAIT asked.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-amazon-and-google-employees-ask-their-companies-to-end-military-contract-with-israel-420595">Hundreds of Amazon and Google employees ask their companies to end military contract with Israel</a>

CAIT said that Senator Elizabeth Warren of the US Senate, taking cognizance of this issue, said that "either one can become an umpire or a player, but Amazon but you can't be both at the same time. Amazon takes advantage of its power to tilt the playing field and crush small businesses. It's a long time to break them up".

Going a step further, Democrat Senator Amy Kloboucher and Republican Senator Chuck Grassley have announced to bring a bill in the US Senate against the business policy of Amazon and other tech companies, which was supported by Senators of both the US parties Democrat and Republic. Prominent among them are Senators Dick Durbin, Lindsey Graham, Richard Blumenthal, John Kennedy, Cory Booker, Cynthia Lummis, Mazie Hirono, Mark Warner and Josh Hawley.

CAIT said Amazon's misdeeds of predatory pricing and destroying competition are being strongly opposed in its home nation US whereas in India there is a mysterious silence among government, all political parties, government departments and all State Governments.

This reinforces the apprehension that somewhere the nefarious influence of Amazon is working and therefore it is continuing its violation of rules business practices at its free will. If it is not so, then why no concrete actions have been taken against Amazon and other companies for flouting the Law and the rules and that too despite making several complaints.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-makes-an-attempt-to-stop-the-illegal-sale-of-amazon-rainforest-419379">Facebook makes an attempt to stop the illegal sale of Amazon rainforest</a>

"Are the laws of India weak or there is a lack of will&nbsp;Silence of the entire political spectrum of India has irked the traders," CAIT said.

CAIT said as per the decision taken by the prominent business leaders of the country in a meeting held in Varanasi on October 1st, the CAIT will run "Bharat Vyapar Kranti Rath Yatra" in all the states of the country from November 15.

The Rath Yatra will begin from Lucknow and will go to all the districts of Uttar Pradesh and will create public opinion among traders and other people about mal-practices of companies like Amazon and subsequent inaction of the Government.

The Rath Yatra will demand the government to punish these companies immediately. Along with this, similar chariot processions will also take place in other states.

Describing a well-planned conspiracy on the country's business sovereignty by foreign-funded companies like Amazon and Flipkart since 2016 to poison the e-commerce business, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAT) told Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal that American lawmakers have announced to present a bill whereas in India not only the government but all the political parties, responsible government agencies are silent which has generated lot of anger and resentment among the traders of the country.

Describing a well-planned conspiracy on the country's business sovereignty by foreign-funded companies like Amazon and Flipkart since 2016 to poison the e-commerce business, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAT) told Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal that American lawmakers have announced to present a bill whereas in India not only the government but all the political parties, responsible government agencies are silent which has generated lot of anger and resentment among the traders of the country. CAIT said this attitude gives enough strength to the possibility that Amazon and other foreign companies have the protection of some people within the government administration for allowing it to violate the law at the cost of gross neglect of the domestic trading community. Also Read | Jeff Bezos shares an old article predicting Amazon's failure, Elon Musk replies It has announced to take out a Rath Yatra from November 15 in all the states of the country, protesting against the abuse of dominance and other malpractices continued by Amazon and other foreign funded companies in India. CAIT said that citing evidence in a news story recently published in the media, it was clearly stated that Amazon copies the products of Indian small manufacturers and involved a rigging in the search and selling the copied products at much lower prices thereby killing the entrepreneurial skills and potential of the country, which also contravene the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' agenda of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "But it is very surprising that till date no government department or ministry has taken any cognizance of it and despite complaining no action has been taken, what is to be understood from this?" CAIT asked. Also Read | Hundreds of Amazon and Google employees ask their companies to end military contract with Israel CAIT said that Senator Elizabeth Warren of the US Senate, taking cognizance of this issue, said that "either one can become an umpire or a player, but Amazon but you can't be both at the same time. Amazon takes advantage of its power to tilt the playing field and crush small businesses. It's a long time to break them up". Going a step further, Democrat Senator Amy Kloboucher and Republican Senator Chuck Grassley have announced to bring a bill in the US Senate against the business policy of Amazon and other tech companies, which was supported by Senators of both the US parties Democrat and Republic. Prominent among them are Senators Dick Durbin, Lindsey Graham, Richard Blumenthal, John Kennedy, Cory Booker, Cynthia Lummis, Mazie Hirono, Mark Warner and Josh Hawley. CAIT said Amazon's misdeeds of predatory pricing and destroying competition are being strongly opposed in its home nation US whereas in India there is a mysterious silence among government, all political parties, government departments and all State Governments. This reinforces the apprehension that somewhere the nefarious influence of Amazon is working and therefore it is continuing its violation of rules business practices at its free will. If it is not so, then why no concrete actions have been taken against Amazon and other companies for flouting the Law and the rules and that too despite making several complaints. Also Read | Facebook makes an attempt to stop the illegal sale of Amazon rainforest "Are the laws of India weak or there is a lack of will Silence of the entire political spectrum of India has irked the traders," CAIT said. CAIT said as per the decision taken by the prominent business leaders of the country in a meeting held in Varanasi on October 1st, the CAIT will run "Bharat Vyapar Kranti Rath Yatra" in all the states of the country from November 15. The Rath Yatra will begin from Lucknow and will go to all the districts of Uttar Pradesh and will create public opinion among traders and other people about mal-practices of companies like Amazon and subsequent inaction of the Government. The Rath Yatra will demand the government to punish these companies immediately. Along with this, similar chariot processions will also take place in other states.

US lawmakers protest more intensely than Indians over Amazon's rigging in India: CAIT

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day.

Also Read |&nbsp;Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh

Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday.

On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing.

But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO.

Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday.

Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area.

Also Read |&nbsp;'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces

"After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district.

"The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said.

They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known. Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day. Also Read | Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday. On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing. But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO. Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday. Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area. Also Read | 'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces "After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district. "The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said. They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

Anti-terror operation in India's Jammu and Kashmir enters 5th day

With an aim to ensure power plants have enough feedstock to generate electricity, the central government pressed all resources at its command on Sunday. The move comes as states from Delhi to Andhra Pradesh have sent warnings of a developing power crisis due to coal shortage. &nbsp;

Union Power Minister R K Singh reviewed coal stock at all thermal power plants. He also oversaw situation in the units that supply power to distribution companies in the national capital. &nbsp;

The Ministry of Coal said, "Ample coal is available in the country to meet the demand, and any fear of disruption in power supply is entirely misplaced." &nbsp;

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Although the country has produced record coal this year, incessant rains in areas, where coal is produced, hit its movement from mines to power generation units. It has adversely impacted power generation units in many states, such as Rajasthan, Delhi, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. &nbsp;

Due to a spurt in energy prices, the power plants, which used imported coal to generate power, have either curtailed operations or have shut down. &nbsp;

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In a statement, the power ministry said the total despatch of coal from all sources (Coal India Limited, Singareni Collieries Company, Captive Coal Mines and imported coal) on October 9 was 1.92 million tonnes (19.2 lakh tonnes) against the total consumption was 1.87 million tonnes (18.7 lakh tonnes). &nbsp;

"Coal despatch have exceeded the consumption, thereby indicating shift to gradual building up of coal stock," the statement said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With an aim to ensure power plants have enough feedstock to generate electricity, the central government pressed all resources at its command on Sunday. The move comes as states from Delhi to Andhra Pradesh have sent warnings of a developing power crisis due to coal shortage.

With an aim to ensure power plants have enough feedstock to generate electricity, the central government pressed all resources at its command on Sunday. The move comes as states from Delhi to Andhra Pradesh have sent warnings of a developing power crisis due to coal shortage. Union Power Minister R K Singh reviewed coal stock at all thermal power plants. He also oversaw situation in the units that supply power to distribution companies in the national capital. The Ministry of Coal said, "Ample coal is available in the country to meet the demand, and any fear of disruption in power supply is entirely misplaced." Also Read: India, China commander-level talks begin amid tensions along LAC Although the country has produced record coal this year, incessant rains in areas, where coal is produced, hit its movement from mines to power generation units. It has adversely impacted power generation units in many states, such as Rajasthan, Delhi, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. Due to a spurt in energy prices, the power plants, which used imported coal to generate power, have either curtailed operations or have shut down. Also Read: More than 100 Afghan nationals fly to Kabul from India via Iran on free will In a statement, the power ministry said the total despatch of coal from all sources (Coal India Limited, Singareni Collieries Company, Captive Coal Mines and imported coal) on October 9 was 1.92 million tonnes (19.2 lakh tonnes) against the total consumption was 1.87 million tonnes (18.7 lakh tonnes). "Coal despatch have exceeded the consumption, thereby indicating shift to gradual building up of coal stock," the statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

To avert power crisis, Indian govt scrambles all resources as coal shortage looms

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. &nbsp;

Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. 
 
Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. 
 
Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. <a href="https://t.co/n7pNmL1d7K">pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439614842843717637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/a-day-after-bitter-power-tussle-indias-northern-punjab-state-gets-new-cm-414241" hreflang="en">A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM</a>

The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 19, 2021 × The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” Watch: × In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." Also Read: A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian external affairs minister meets Serbian foreign minister, holds talks

In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The wide-ranging talks also covered bilateral issues. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The two leaders discussed ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." &nbsp;

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A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH <a href="https://twitter.com/FaisalbinFarhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Faisalbinfarhan</a>. 
 
Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. 
 
Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/0cYq6I5VUU">pic.twitter.com/0cYq6I5VUU</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439513708238049283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp;

On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-as-chair-of-united-nations-security-council-creates-record-of-sorts-414157" hreflang="en">India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts</a>

The Saudi foreign minister’s visit has come at a time when India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan after its takeover by the Taliban. &nbsp;

Afghanistan was a major area of focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.

In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The wide-ranging talks also covered bilateral issues. The two leaders discussed ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Watch: × The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. pic.twitter.com/0cYq6I5VUU — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 19, 2021 × The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read: India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts The Saudi foreign minister’s visit has come at a time when India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan after its takeover by the Taliban. Afghanistan was a major area of focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian EAM meets Saudi foreign minister, discusses regional, bilateral issues

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