Officials from the Central government are deliberating the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar as a measure to counter the surge of illegal migrants and insurgents, Indian media reports said. The FMR policy, in operation along the 1,643-km-long India-Myanmar border, has become a point of contention due to its alleged misuse, leading to concerns about "illegal immigration, drug, and arms trafficking."

Local residents and the Manipur government have voiced grievances, prompting the Central government to consider revisiting the policy.

<h2>Background of the Free Movement Regime</h2>

Initiated in 2018 as part of India's Act East policy, the FMR permits individuals residing within a 16 km radius on either side of the India-Myanmar border, belonging to hill tribes and citizens of either India or Myanmar, to travel across the border without a visa. The policy aims to foster cross-border interactions while allowing a stay of up to two weeks per visit.

But now, there's a proposal to terminate the FMR. The government aims to replace it with a comprehensive fencing project, expected to be completed in the next four-and-a-half years, reported the news agency ANI.

Individuals entering the border region will be required to obtain a visa, signaling a shift from the current visa-free movement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-rules-may-be-notified-much-before-lok-sabha-elections-report-676226">Also read |&nbsp;CAA rules can be notified ‘much before’ Lok Sabha elections: Report</a>

Officials as quoted by ANI, said that the primary objectives are to curb the misuse of the FMR, exploited by insurgent groups for attacks on the Indian side before escaping to Myanmar, and to stem the inflow of illegal immigrants involved in various illicit activities, including drug and gold smuggling.

The process of tendering for an advanced smart fencing system covering 300 km of the India-Myanmar border is underway, with implementation set to commence shortly, according to reports. The smart fencing system is expected to enhance border security and contribute to the government's overall objectives.

Allegations point to an influx of Myanmar's tribal population into India, particularly Manipur and Mizoram, following the military coup in Myanmar on February 1, 2021. It is alleged that a considerable number of individuals sought refuge in India and engaged in unlawful activities, notably drug smuggling.

In September 2023, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh appealed to terminate the FMR, citing concerns that insurgents exploit the regime for their activities.

Manipur shares a porous border of approximately 390 km with Myanmar, with only about 10 km currently fenced.

Also watch |&nbsp;What India has to gain &amp; lose if Sheikh Hasina retains power in Bangladesh

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Similarly, Mizoram has witnessed an influx of anti-Junta rebels, with government estimates suggesting thousands of refugees settling in various parts of the state. 
 
Mizoram shares a porous border spanning 510 kilometres&nbsp;with Myanmar.

Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland also share extensive borders with Myanmar, emphasising the broader implications of the proposed termination of the FMR. 
 
Arunachal Pradesh has a 520-kilometre border, while Nagaland's border with Myanmar spans 215 km.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials from the Central government are deliberating the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar as a measure to counter the surge of illegal migrants and insurgents, Indian media reports said.

Officials from the Central government are deliberating the termination of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar as a measure to counter the surge of illegal migrants and insurgents, Indian media reports said. The FMR policy, in operation along the 1,643-km-long India-Myanmar border, has become a point of contention due to its alleged misuse, leading to concerns about "illegal immigration, drug, and arms trafficking." Local residents and the Manipur government have voiced grievances, prompting the Central government to consider revisiting the policy. Background of the Free Movement Regime Initiated in 2018 as part of India's Act East policy, the FMR permits individuals residing within a 16 km radius on either side of the India-Myanmar border, belonging to hill tribes and citizens of either India or Myanmar, to travel across the border without a visa. The policy aims to foster cross-border interactions while allowing a stay of up to two weeks per visit. But now, there's a proposal to terminate the FMR. The government aims to replace it with a comprehensive fencing project, expected to be completed in the next four-and-a-half years, reported the news agency ANI. Individuals entering the border region will be required to obtain a visa, signaling a shift from the current visa-free movement. Also read | CAA rules can be notified ‘much before’ Lok Sabha elections: Report Officials as quoted by ANI, said that the primary objectives are to curb the misuse of the FMR, exploited by insurgent groups for attacks on the Indian side before escaping to Myanmar, and to stem the inflow of illegal immigrants involved in various illicit activities, including drug and gold smuggling. The process of tendering for an advanced smart fencing system covering 300 km of the India-Myanmar border is underway, with implementation set to commence shortly, according to reports. The smart fencing system is expected to enhance border security and contribute to the government's overall objectives. Allegations point to an influx of Myanmar's tribal population into India, particularly Manipur and Mizoram, following the military coup in Myanmar on February 1, 2021. It is alleged that a considerable number of individuals sought refuge in India and engaged in unlawful activities, notably drug smuggling. In September 2023, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh appealed to terminate the FMR, citing concerns that insurgents exploit the regime for their activities. Manipur shares a porous border of approximately 390 km with Myanmar, with only about 10 km currently fenced. Also watch | What India has to gain & lose if Sheikh Hasina retains power in Bangladesh Similarly, Mizoram has witnessed an influx of anti-Junta rebels, with government estimates suggesting thousands of refugees settling in various parts of the state. Mizoram shares a porous border spanning 510 kilometres with Myanmar. Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland also share extensive borders with Myanmar, emphasising the broader implications of the proposed termination of the FMR. Arunachal Pradesh has a 520-kilometre border, while Nagaland's border with Myanmar spans 215 km. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt plans to end Free Movement Regime along international border with Myanmar

Is the Junta losing ground in Myanmar? Myanmar's Junta is battling unprecedented opposition alliance & struggling to recruit people amid poor equipment issues. Watch to get more insights!

India may end free movement regime near Myanmar border

Myanmar's Junta battles unprecedented opposition alliance

Pro-democratic fighters have launched their offensive against Myanmar's junta. They have taken a vow to end Myanmar's 'Dictatorship'

'Drop Bombs' retaking Myanmar sky

Myanmar's military has called in air strikes and naval bombardments against an ethnic minority armed group on an island hosting a planned billion-dollar China-backed deep sea port, the group and local media said.

Clashes have rocked Rakhine state since last month after the Arakan Army (AA) launched attacks on security forces, ending a shaky ceasefire that had largely held since the military seized power in a coup in 2021.

The attacks in the western state opened another front for the military as it battles the so-called "Three Brotherhood Alliance" alliance of ethnic minority fighters, which includes the AA, in the north of the country.

On Tuesday a naval vessel bombarded Ramree town on Ramree island, the alliance said on its Telegram channel.

During fighting with the AA in the area on Monday, junta forces called in air strikes and fired from naval ships, the alliance said. 
Local media reported civilians had been killed and wounded in the firing on Ramree town.

The AA said it had seized "military equipment" following the clash on Monday, without giving details.

Ramree island is home to a planned China-backed deep sea port that when completed will serve as gateway for Beijing to the Indian Ocean.

The planned port near Kyaukphyu, around 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Ramree town, is the centrepiece of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) project -- a key thread in China's global Belt and Road vision.

Construction on the port and a nearby special economic zone has been stalled amid on-off unrest in Rakhine state. 
AFP has contacted China's embassy in Yangon for comment.&nbsp;

Clashes between the AA and the military roiled the region in 2019, and in 2017 the military launched a crackdown on the Rohingya minority that is now the subject of a United Nations genocide court case.

Local media reported this week that authorities had banned all fishing and transport boats from the waters around Kyaukphyu until February next year.&nbsp;

Last week the AA said it had seized three military bases in neighbouring Chin state near the border with Bangladesh.

More than 110,000 people have been displaced by the recent clashes in Chin and Rakhine states, the United Nations said last week.

The AA has for years fought a war for the autonomy of the state's ethnic Rakhine population in their home near the Bangladesh border.

Clashes between the AA and the military in 2019 displaced more than 200,000 people across Rakhine state, home to around one million people.

Myanmar's military has called in air strikes and naval bombardments against an ethnic minority armed group on an island hosting a planned billion-dollar China-backed deep sea port, the group and local media said.

Myanmar's military has called in air strikes and naval bombardments against an ethnic minority armed group on an island hosting a planned billion-dollar China-backed deep sea port, the group and local media said. Clashes have rocked Rakhine state since last month after the Arakan Army (AA) launched attacks on security forces, ending a shaky ceasefire that had largely held since the military seized power in a coup in 2021. The attacks in the western state opened another front for the military as it battles the so-called "Three Brotherhood Alliance" alliance of ethnic minority fighters, which includes the AA, in the north of the country. On Tuesday a naval vessel bombarded Ramree town on Ramree island, the alliance said on its Telegram channel. During fighting with the AA in the area on Monday, junta forces called in air strikes and fired from naval ships, the alliance said. Local media reported civilians had been killed and wounded in the firing on Ramree town. The AA said it had seized "military equipment" following the clash on Monday, without giving details. Ramree island is home to a planned China-backed deep sea port that when completed will serve as gateway for Beijing to the Indian Ocean. The planned port near Kyaukphyu, around 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Ramree town, is the centrepiece of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) project -- a key thread in China's global Belt and Road vision. Construction on the port and a nearby special economic zone has been stalled amid on-off unrest in Rakhine state. AFP has contacted China's embassy in Yangon for comment. Clashes between the AA and the military roiled the region in 2019, and in 2017 the military launched a crackdown on the Rohingya minority that is now the subject of a United Nations genocide court case. Local media reported this week that authorities had banned all fishing and transport boats from the waters around Kyaukphyu until February next year. Last week the AA said it had seized three military bases in neighbouring Chin state near the border with Bangladesh. More than 110,000 people have been displaced by the recent clashes in Chin and Rakhine states, the United Nations said last week. The AA has for years fought a war for the autonomy of the state's ethnic Rakhine population in their home near the Bangladesh border. Clashes between the AA and the military in 2019 displaced more than 200,000 people across Rakhine state, home to around one million people.

More clashes in Myanmar's Rakhine state

Representatives from Myanmar's ruling military have held talks, facilitated by China, with three armed rebel groups leading an anti-junta offensive, state media reported a junta spokesperson as saying on Monday.

China hopes parties in Myanmar will implement agreements, brokers peace talks | World News | WION

Coup in Myanmar: China mediates temporary ceasefire in Myanmar conflict | World News | WION

Myanmar military meets rebel groups with China's help - junta spokesperson

Reversing a steady decline that was seen in the Opium cultivation between 2014 and 2020, the illicit crop growing has surged in Myanmar since the military seized the power in 2021 and this is according to the United Nations in its annual Opium survey for 2022.

Myanmar: Opium cultivation surges, 65% rise in opium yield in 2 years

Myanmar has risen to become the world’s largest producer of opium in 2023, surpassing the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan which had launched a crackdown on poppy cultivation in 2021 after the civilian government collapsed.

Myanmar produced an estimated 1,080 metric tonnes of opium this year, as per the data released by the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Meanwhile, Afghanistan saw a massive drop in opium production by 95 per cent to just 330 tonnes.

The production saw a drastic fall after the Islamist rulers imposed a blanket ban on&nbsp;opium trade in April last year.

<h2>Myanmar’s “opiate economy”</h2>

Thanks to the rising instability in Myanmar, the country’s illegal economy has expanded over the past few years, with the opiate economy rising to the estimated value of between $1bn and $2.4bn – the equivalent of 1.7% to 4.1% of the country’s 2022 GDP.

Last year, an estimated 790 metric tonnes of opium was produced in Myanmar, the UN said.

According to the report, high inflation and poor access to markets and state infrastructure are believed to have driven more and more farmers to shift to opium cultivation.

Watch:&nbsp;Myanmar military meets rebel groups with China's help - junta spokesperson

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The UNODC said poppy cultivation in Myanmar was becoming more sophisticated, with increased investment and better practices – including improved irrigation and possible use of fertilisers – pushing up crop yields.

<h2>Opium cultivation: Afghanistan vs Myanmar</h2>

After the Taliban's commitment to eradicating illegal drug production, Afghanistan witnessed a drastic decline in poppy cultivation between 2022 and 2023. Poppy crops, constituting nearly a third of the country's agricultural value last year, saw the cultivation area diminish from 233,000 hectares in late 2022 to a mere 10,800 in 2023.

Meanwhile, in Myanmar, Shan state, primarily responsible for cultivation, experienced heightened conflict as ethnic minority armed groups launched an offensive against the junta and its allies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lawyer-makes-shocking-claim-says-state-of-assam-originally-part-of-myanmar-not-india-667886">Also read:&nbsp;Indian lawyer makes shocking claim, says state of Assam originally `part of Myanmar, not India`</a>

Covering nearly a quarter of Myanmar's land mass, Shan State is characterised by ravines and jungle-clad hills. This region, controlled by various ethnic armed organizations boasting substantial forces, is identified by the UN as the primary source of methamphetamine in Southeast Asia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar has risen to become the world’s largest producer of opium in 2023, surpassing the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan which had launched a crackdown on poppy cultivation in 2021 after the civilian government collapsed.

Myanmar has risen to become the world’s largest producer of opium in 2023, surpassing the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan which had launched a crackdown on poppy cultivation in 2021 after the civilian government collapsed. Myanmar produced an estimated 1,080 metric tonnes of opium this year, as per the data released by the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Meanwhile, Afghanistan saw a massive drop in opium production by 95 per cent to just 330 tonnes. The production saw a drastic fall after the Islamist rulers imposed a blanket ban on opium trade in April last year. Myanmar’s “opiate economy” Thanks to the rising instability in Myanmar, the country’s illegal economy has expanded over the past few years, with the opiate economy rising to the estimated value of between $1bn and $2.4bn – the equivalent of 1.7% to 4.1% of the country’s 2022 GDP. Last year, an estimated 790 metric tonnes of opium was produced in Myanmar, the UN said. According to the report, high inflation and poor access to markets and state infrastructure are believed to have driven more and more farmers to shift to opium cultivation. Watch: Myanmar military meets rebel groups with China's help - junta spokesperson × The UNODC said poppy cultivation in Myanmar was becoming more sophisticated, with increased investment and better practices – including improved irrigation and possible use of fertilisers – pushing up crop yields. Opium cultivation: Afghanistan vs Myanmar After the Taliban's commitment to eradicating illegal drug production, Afghanistan witnessed a drastic decline in poppy cultivation between 2022 and 2023. Poppy crops, constituting nearly a third of the country's agricultural value last year, saw the cultivation area diminish from 233,000 hectares in late 2022 to a mere 10,800 in 2023. Meanwhile, in Myanmar, Shan state, primarily responsible for cultivation, experienced heightened conflict as ethnic minority armed groups launched an offensive against the junta and its allies. Also read: Indian lawyer makes shocking claim, says state of Assam originally `part of Myanmar, not India` Covering nearly a quarter of Myanmar's land mass, Shan State is characterised by ravines and jungle-clad hills. This region, controlled by various ethnic armed organizations boasting substantial forces, is identified by the UN as the primary source of methamphetamine in Southeast Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar surpasses Afghanistan to become world’s largest opium producer following Taliban’s crackdown

In a shocking claim, Indian senior advocate Kapil Sibal said that Assam originally belonged to Myanmar and not India. 
 
The statement was made by the lawyer during the court proceedings which aimed at addressing multiple petitions which challenged the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act of 1955. 
 
This section, which is important for the implementation of the Assam Accord, permits specific foreign migrants who got entry between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, to apply for citizenship of India. 
 
After the proceedings, the Union Government was directed by the Supreme Court to provide detailed data on the illegal migrants who entered into Assam and the northeastern states after March 25, 1971. 
 
The directive was part of the comprehensive review process related to contentious Section 6A, which is a provision that led to heated debates among different groups within Assam.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a>

During the court proceeding, senior advocate Kapil Sibal – who was representing the respondents – emphasised how complex it is to trace population movements in Assam while highlighting how it was earlier part of Myanmar and later came under British governance. 
 
"Migration of people and populations is embedded in history and cannot be mapped. If you look at the history of Assam, you'll realise that it is impossible to figure out who came when," Sibal said, during the hearing. 
 
"Assam was originally a part of Myanmar. It was way back in 1824 after the British conquered part of the territory that a treaty was entered into by which Assam was handed over to the British. You can imagine the kind of movement of people that might have taken place in the context of the then British Empire," he added.

<h2>CM Himanta refutes Sibal's claims</h2>

The argument of Kapil Sibal was refuted by the Assam government which stated that it was not historically true that Assam was part of Myanmar. 
 
Assam government spokesperson Pijush Hazarika said that at no point in history, Assam was part of Myanmar.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi addresses nation following poll win, says 'people rejected negativity' | India News | WION

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"From the time of Mahabharat and before, we have firmly been an integral part of Bharatvarsh," said the government spokesperson, as Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also called the comment by Sibal incorrect. 
 
"Those who do not know should not speak. Never was Assam a part of Myanmar. People from Myanmar came and clashed with the Assam people. For a brief period -- for a month-- Assam became like an occupation. This is the extent of Assam and Myanmar relations. I never came across any data claiming that Assam was with Myanmar...I should not comment on what is said in the Supreme Court. A lawyer says anything as part of an argument,” said Himanta.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking claim, Indian senior advocate Kapil Sibal said that Assam originally belonged to Myanmar and not India. The statement was made by the lawyer during the court proceedings which aimed at addressing multiple petitions which challenged the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act of 1955.

In a shocking claim, Indian senior advocate Kapil Sibal said that Assam originally belonged to Myanmar and not India. The statement was made by the lawyer during the court proceedings which aimed at addressing multiple petitions which challenged the validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act of 1955. This section, which is important for the implementation of the Assam Accord, permits specific foreign migrants who got entry between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, to apply for citizenship of India. After the proceedings, the Union Government was directed by the Supreme Court to provide detailed data on the illegal migrants who entered into Assam and the northeastern states after March 25, 1971. The directive was part of the comprehensive review process related to contentious Section 6A, which is a provision that led to heated debates among different groups within Assam. Also read: Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years During the court proceeding, senior advocate Kapil Sibal – who was representing the respondents – emphasised how complex it is to trace population movements in Assam while highlighting how it was earlier part of Myanmar and later came under British governance. "Migration of people and populations is embedded in history and cannot be mapped. If you look at the history of Assam, you'll realise that it is impossible to figure out who came when," Sibal said, during the hearing. "Assam was originally a part of Myanmar. It was way back in 1824 after the British conquered part of the territory that a treaty was entered into by which Assam was handed over to the British. You can imagine the kind of movement of people that might have taken place in the context of the then British Empire," he added. CM Himanta refutes Sibal's claims The argument of Kapil Sibal was refuted by the Assam government which stated that it was not historically true that Assam was part of Myanmar. Assam government spokesperson Pijush Hazarika said that at no point in history, Assam was part of Myanmar. Watch: PM Modi addresses nation following poll win, says 'people rejected negativity' | India News | WION "From the time of Mahabharat and before, we have firmly been an integral part of Bharatvarsh," said the government spokesperson, as Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also called the comment by Sibal incorrect. "Those who do not know should not speak. Never was Assam a part of Myanmar. People from Myanmar came and clashed with the Assam people. For a brief period -- for a month-- Assam became like an occupation. This is the extent of Assam and Myanmar relations. I never came across any data claiming that Assam was with Myanmar...I should not comment on what is said in the Supreme Court. A lawyer says anything as part of an argument,” said Himanta. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian lawyer makes shocking claim, says state of Assam originally 'part of Myanmar, not India'

A dozen bamboo sticks, two ropes, a tarpaulin sheet. What can you do with them?

If you’re a Rohingya refugee family in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee camp, you would be expected to combine the three to put a roof over your head.

For years now that’s been the ground reality, and a grim one at that, for Rohingyas, a Muslim ethnic minority group who have lived for centuries in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar, seeking refuge in neighbouring Bangladesh after being uprooted.

Since the threat of genocide has hung over them like the proverbial sword of Damocles, the Rohingya have been forced to disperse, and have fled Myanmar over the past few years, calling Cox’s Bazar home. It’s a place filled with the displaced. A dreary and forlorn people, for whom the hopes and dreams of a better future away from their homeland - Myanmar, formerly Burma - continue to linger.

Rohingya camps have been set up in both hilly and plain terrain. The world has labelled them the 'boat people' for their instinctive and, rather, fundamental call to row away from their homeland against the tide when the military took over their livelihood, tossing aside their basic human right to freedom.

Food, clothing, shelter, otherwise assumed people’s basic needs, have now become a luxury. A hearty meal on good days is rice and dal (lentil soup), a refugee says, and now with the lack of funds their sustenance hinges on rice and salt.

Speaking to WION, Sajjad Hussain (name changed) says, there is enough to be disheartened about, but he is hopeful of building a community that can survive in the world. “My people are smart, but lack basics that can bring them at par with the world,” he says with optimism.

<h2>Freedom on crutches</h2>

In a state of dire hand-to-mouth existence, an inhabitant remembers days when he had enough for himself. “I belonged to a well-to-do family when I was in my homeland - Burma. After the military rule, things began to go downhill,” said the 25-year-old.

His family faced hardships even when it came to visiting relatives. Freedom of movement looked like a far-fetched dream. “We needed written approval to step out of our area,” Hussain said of his dark days on the land he once called home.

After making desperate attempts to lead a normal life, he along with many others, fled Myanmar in 2017 to reach Cox’s Bazar in the hope of a better life. Little did he envision himself as a refugee.

<h2>The refugee workforce</h2>

Amid the constant struggle to live, finding a job was an uphill task. “People exploited us, paid us meagre salaries, but got enough and more work out of us,” he says.

Today, the only kind of employment one can manage to obtain is volunteer work. Needless to say, there was always going to be a disparity in payment, a point brought to our attention by a volunteer.

While a citizen gets paid 40,000 taka (local currency), a refugee working in a similar capacity is paid just 3,000 taka.

With years of experience, Hussain has now started negotiating for his rights as an employee and wants to at least be compensated for the amount of work he does.

<h2>Misery in sickness and health:</h2>

“For reporting any illness, the prescription always contains one medicine, paracetamol,” he adds. “I won’t lie, pregnant women get good medical support, but there is no aid for life-threatening ailments.”

<h2>‘I’m a scammer, they say’</h2>

“We have not interacted with people from developed countries,” says Hussain, who looks at the internet as a boon which allows him access to the world in order to seek aid for refugees currently living in and around his camp.

“My way of communication may not be as polished and people look at me as a scammer when I try to raise funds for our refugee families. Nobody will know what the life of a refugee is, it is not a place to be.”

<h2>Latching on to food during floods</h2>

Food is gold.

Monsoon brings tales of despair for camp inhabitants who are put up in low-lying areas. Episodes of incessant rains are not a rarity, and a refugee's instinct makes him run to save foodgrains. "We run to save our rice bags when we see water filling up."

<h2>Daydreamers</h2>

'How many countries have you visited?' I ask.

"We have not seen a world, we all have dreams and aspirations. I feel like travelling and seeing places, but if things go on like this that day probably will never come."

Talking about dreams, Hussain added, "We refugees are a business and a lucrative one. They say we are not here to travel or see places. We must be prepared to be tossed when the world decides to toss us around. We are the world’s football.”

We live cramped up in our shelter, we struggle with our basic needs every day. "Life in prison is better than the one am living currently," he adds.

<h2>A constant search for a safe haven</h2>

The specter of danger lingers constantly over the refugees. Capsizing of boats during migration has claimed many lives and isn't a thing of the past. Refugee families have seen children being thrown into the fire, and their women are not safe. "Our women were raped in front of their brothers and fathers, their genitals were mutilated. Our children were thrown into fire, we have seen this cruelty in front of our eyes."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-a-matter-of-time-israeli-forces-close-in-on-hamas-co-founder-founders-yahya-sinwar-667119">‘Only a matter of time’: Israeli forces close in on Hamas co-founder founders Yahya Sinwar</a>

Having gone through pain, shaken mentally by the atrocities unfolding around each passing day, the hopeful refugee says, "We try to keep sane and live on as a community with whatever we have.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bereft-of-food-and-water-400-rohingya-refugees-adrift-in-andaman-sea-for-two-weeks-un-666677">Bereft of food and water, 400 Rohingya refugees adrift in Andaman Sea for two weeks: UN</a>

A refugee is constantly thinking and hoping for a better future, Hussain says.

Being dubbed the ‘boat people’ might sound harsh, but Hussain has made his peace with the phrase as he knows and understands everybody is ready to pick up and leave for any place at any time if it could promise a better life.

While the Rohingya live in the shadows of uncertainty and dream of a better life, they fully know and understand that a return to their homeland might not be how their fairytale ends.

A dozen bamboo sticks, two ropes, a tarpaulin sheet. What can you do with them? If you’re a Rohingya refugee family in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee camp, you would be expected to combine the three to put a roof over your head.

A dozen bamboo sticks, two ropes, a tarpaulin sheet. What can you do with them? If you’re a Rohingya refugee family in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee camp, you would be expected to combine the three to put a roof over your head. For years now that’s been the ground reality, and a grim one at that, for Rohingyas, a Muslim ethnic minority group who have lived for centuries in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar, seeking refuge in neighbouring Bangladesh after being uprooted. Since the threat of genocide has hung over them like the proverbial sword of Damocles, the Rohingya have been forced to disperse, and have fled Myanmar over the past few years, calling Cox’s Bazar home. It’s a place filled with the displaced. A dreary and forlorn people, for whom the hopes and dreams of a better future away from their homeland - Myanmar, formerly Burma - continue to linger. Rohingya camps have been set up in both hilly and plain terrain. The world has labelled them the 'boat people' for their instinctive and, rather, fundamental call to row away from their homeland against the tide when the military took over their livelihood, tossing aside their basic human right to freedom. Food, clothing, shelter, otherwise assumed people’s basic needs, have now become a luxury. A hearty meal on good days is rice and dal (lentil soup), a refugee says, and now with the lack of funds their sustenance hinges on rice and salt. Speaking to WION, Sajjad Hussain (name changed) says, there is enough to be disheartened about, but he is hopeful of building a community that can survive in the world. “My people are smart, but lack basics that can bring them at par with the world,” he says with optimism. Freedom on crutches In a state of dire hand-to-mouth existence, an inhabitant remembers days when he had enough for himself. “I belonged to a well-to-do family when I was in my homeland - Burma. After the military rule, things began to go downhill,” said the 25-year-old. His family faced hardships even when it came to visiting relatives. Freedom of movement looked like a far-fetched dream. “We needed written approval to step out of our area,” Hussain said of his dark days on the land he once called home. After making desperate attempts to lead a normal life, he along with many others, fled Myanmar in 2017 to reach Cox’s Bazar in the hope of a better life. Little did he envision himself as a refugee. The refugee workforce Amid the constant struggle to live, finding a job was an uphill task. “People exploited us, paid us meagre salaries, but got enough and more work out of us,” he says. Today, the only kind of employment one can manage to obtain is volunteer work. Needless to say, there was always going to be a disparity in payment, a point brought to our attention by a volunteer. While a citizen gets paid 40,000 taka (local currency), a refugee working in a similar capacity is paid just 3,000 taka. With years of experience, Hussain has now started negotiating for his rights as an employee and wants to at least be compensated for the amount of work he does. Misery in sickness and health: “For reporting any illness, the prescription always contains one medicine, paracetamol,” he adds. “I won’t lie, pregnant women get good medical support, but there is no aid for life-threatening ailments.” ‘I’m a scammer, they say’ “We have not interacted with people from developed countries,” says Hussain, who looks at the internet as a boon which allows him access to the world in order to seek aid for refugees currently living in and around his camp. “My way of communication may not be as polished and people look at me as a scammer when I try to raise funds for our refugee families. Nobody will know what the life of a refugee is, it is not a place to be.” Latching on to food during floods Food is gold. Monsoon brings tales of despair for camp inhabitants who are put up in low-lying areas. Episodes of incessant rains are not a rarity, and a refugee's instinct makes him run to save foodgrains. "We run to save our rice bags when we see water filling up." Daydreamers 'How many countries have you visited?' I ask. "We have not seen a world, we all have dreams and aspirations. I feel like travelling and seeing places, but if things go on like this that day probably will never come." Talking about dreams, Hussain added, "We refugees are a business and a lucrative one. They say we are not here to travel or see places. We must be prepared to be tossed when the world decides to toss us around. We are the world’s football.” We live cramped up in our shelter, we struggle with our basic needs every day. "Life in prison is better than the one am living currently," he adds. A constant search for a safe haven The specter of danger lingers constantly over the refugees. Capsizing of boats during migration has claimed many lives and isn't a thing of the past. Refugee families have seen children being thrown into the fire, and their women are not safe. "Our women were raped in front of their brothers and fathers, their genitals were mutilated. Our children were thrown into fire, we have seen this cruelty in front of our eyes." Also read | ‘Only a matter of time’: Israeli forces close in on Hamas co-founder founders Yahya Sinwar Having gone through pain, shaken mentally by the atrocities unfolding around each passing day, the hopeful refugee says, "We try to keep sane and live on as a community with whatever we have.” Also read | Bereft of food and water, 400 Rohingya refugees adrift in Andaman Sea for two weeks: UN A refugee is constantly thinking and hoping for a better future, Hussain says. Being dubbed the ‘boat people’ might sound harsh, but Hussain has made his peace with the phrase as he knows and understands everybody is ready to pick up and leave for any place at any time if it could promise a better life. While the Rohingya live in the shadows of uncertainty and dream of a better life, they fully know and understand that a return to their homeland might not be how their fairytale ends.

'We are nothing but a lucrative business,' a Rohingya refugee's life amid chaos

Myanmar's pro-democracy fighters have intensified their fight against the country's military. The People's Defense Force groups or the PDFs are now pushing to capture the first state capital from the junta.

Myanmar military falling back on almost every front; turning point in struggle to oust Army leaders

Myanmar military falling back on almost every front; armed forces losing ground

In the southeast Asian nation of Myanmar, the ruling Junta is facing its biggest military challenge since seizing power in a 2021 coup. An alliance of three Myanmar ethnic minority groups, called the Brotherhood alliance, has waged a coordinated offensive since the 27th of October. The offensive, named by rebels as Operation 1027, signifying the date on which it began, has made inroads into the Junta-controlled areas in the northern Shan state, Kayah state in the east and Rakhine state in the west. Over 100 military outposts have been overrun, trade routes to neighbouring China have been cut off and more than 330,000 people have been displaced since the offensive was launched. The Myanmar army, so far, has failed to mount a serious counter-offensive on the ground, primarily relying on air and artillery strikes. Almost 200 civilians, including children, have been killed in these clashes. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Over 330,000 people displaced since operation 1027 launched

The Indian government has greenlit four new air routes connecting northeastern states to international destinations under the flagship regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik), which translates to "Let the common citizens of the country fly."&nbsp;

This government initiative promotes regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable and accessible to a larger population, especially in remote regions.

This has marked a historic first for the region. The routes include connections from Assam to Thailand and Bangladesh, Manipur to Myanmar, and Tripura to Bangladesh.

<h2>Subsidised fare&nbsp;</h2>

Scheduled to become operational within a few weeks, the airfares on these routes—Guwahati-Bangkok, Guwahati-Dhaka, Imphal-Mandalay, and Agartala-Chittagong—will be subsidised under the UDAN scheme.&nbsp;

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Anil Kumar Gupta, Executive Director of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), during the 11th International Tourism Mart in Shillong, reportedly said that the new routes were proposed based on demands from the concerned states and are aimed to promote tourism from neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

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The official also reportedly said that four more routes linking the northeast to neighbouring countries are in the pipeline.&nbsp;

Two of these routes, Guwahati-Dhaka and Agartala-Chittagong, are under 500 km and are expected to cost travelers under Rs 4,000 once operational.

<h5>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/assembly-elections-results-celebrations-begin-as-cong-takes-massive-lead-in-telangana-665707">Assembly Elections Results: Celebrations begin as Cong takes massive lead in Telangana</a></h5>

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UDAN scheme, launched on April 27, 2017, initially capped airfares for journeys under 500 km at Rs 2,500 for 40 seats on a flight. Now, officials indicate&nbsp;that airlines can charge up to Rs 3,800 for the same.

Introduced in 2022, 'International UDAN,' improves air connectivity from specific states to selected international destinations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has greenlit four new air routes connecting northeastern states to international destinations under the flagship regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik), which translates to "Let the common citizens of the country fly.

The Indian government has greenlit four new air routes connecting northeastern states to international destinations under the flagship regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik), which translates to "Let the common citizens of the country fly." This government initiative promotes regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable and accessible to a larger population, especially in remote regions. This has marked a historic first for the region. The routes include connections from Assam to Thailand and Bangladesh, Manipur to Myanmar, and Tripura to Bangladesh. Subsidised fare Scheduled to become operational within a few weeks, the airfares on these routes—Guwahati-Bangkok, Guwahati-Dhaka, Imphal-Mandalay, and Agartala-Chittagong—will be subsidised under the UDAN scheme. Also Read | Cyclone Michaung: PM Modi speaks to Andhra CM, takes stock of preparations Anil Kumar Gupta, Executive Director of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), during the 11th International Tourism Mart in Shillong, reportedly said that the new routes were proposed based on demands from the concerned states and are aimed to promote tourism from neighbouring countries. Also Read | Telangana election results 2023: BRS concedes defeat, extends congratulations to Congress The official also reportedly said that four more routes linking the northeast to neighbouring countries are in the pipeline. Two of these routes, Guwahati-Dhaka and Agartala-Chittagong, are under 500 km and are expected to cost travelers under Rs 4,000 once operational. Watch | Assembly Elections Results: Celebrations begin as Cong takes massive lead in Telangana × UDAN scheme, launched on April 27, 2017, initially capped airfares for journeys under 500 km at Rs 2,500 for 40 seats on a flight. Now, officials indicate that airlines can charge up to Rs 3,800 for the same. Introduced in 2022, 'International UDAN,' improves air connectivity from specific states to selected international destinations. (With inputs from agencies)

India greenlights new air routes connecting northeastern states to International destinations

Myanmar rebel groups mounting nationwide offensive against junta

Myanmar pro-democracy fighters in a battered pickup truck drive past abandoned and bombed-out houses in the eastern city of&nbsp;Loikaw, on their way to the front lines of the battle to capture their first state capital from the junta.

"Our soldiers are from&nbsp;Loikaw&nbsp;township and it's the main reason we are motivated. We all are doing our best with the hope of going back to our homes,"&nbsp;said Lin Lin, their leader.

He belongs to one of the dozens of "People's Defence Force" groups (PDFs) that sprung up across Myanmar to fight the military's 2021 coup and are now determined to capture&nbsp;Loikaw&nbsp; and deal a blow to the country's rulers.

PDFs and allied ethnic minority groups have been battling the Myanmar army for weeks in and around&nbsp;Loikaw, a city nestled in lush hills and home to around 50,000 people in eastern Kayah state.

Thousands of residents have already fled air attacks, artillery bombardments and urban battles, PDF&nbsp;fighters said.

Earlier this week, the streets were silent apart from the sounds of sporadic artillery fire.

"At the moment the military is on the defensive," said Lin Lin.

The junta is reeling from an offensive by three ethnic minority groups along the rugged northern border with China that has captured several towns and blocked vital trade routes.

This offensive, dubbed "Operation 1027" after the date it was launched five weeks ago, is the biggest challenge faced by Myanmar's army since it seized power.

Soon after clashes erupted in northern Shan state, other PDF groups opened new fronts in several other states, including Kayah.

Inside&nbsp;Loikaw, footage obtained by AFP shows abandoned houses and shops and streets pockmarked by explosions.

Buildings have been damaged by artillery shells and on some street corners positions fortified with sandbags can be seen.

The military was holed up in the city police station and other buildings, Khun Bedu, the chairman of the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF), one of the groups fighting in&nbsp;Loikaw, told AFP.

With ground troops pinned down, the military was relying on its air and artillery strikes to support its troops, Khun Bedu said.

The military "called in airstrikes on us in many places in the town last night", he told AFP on Friday. "We will continue to fight."&nbsp;

The KNDF posted footage two weeks ago that it said showed its fighters receiving the surrender of junta troops who had been holed up in the city's university.&nbsp;

The KNDF and allied fighters have also made several attempts to seize&nbsp;Loikaw's main prison, which have been beaten back, according to the KNDF and the military.&nbsp;

<h2>Still 'under control '</h2>

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said on Wednesday the weeks-long assault on&nbsp;Loikaw&nbsp;had shown "excessive strength".&nbsp;

But he maintained the&nbsp;Loikaw&nbsp;region was "under control".

The United Nations said it evacuated most of its staff from&nbsp;Loikaw&nbsp;last month due to "aerial bombardment of the town and active fighting" in its streets.

In the north, the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) have since seized dozens of military outposts.

More than 500,000 people have been displaced across Myanmar since the launch of "Operation 1027", according to the UN.

Around 70 per cent of&nbsp;Loikaw's population is thought to have fled in recent weeks, with PDF groups claiming the military had blocked roads and tried to prevent civilians from fleeing the city.

Pro-democracy fighters say they are battling on, spurred by the prize of seizing a state capital in what would be a major victory in their fight against the junta.

But some are worried about the cost to their fighters, and to the city itself.

"The military have lost many soldiers and they are weak right now," said Lin Lin.&nbsp;

"We are only afraid of their air strikes."

Myanmar pro-democracy fighters in a battered pickup truck drive past abandoned and bombed-out houses in the eastern city of Loikaw, on their way to the front lines of the battle to capture their first state capital from the junta.

Myanmar pro-democracy fighters in a battered pickup truck drive past abandoned and bombed-out houses in the eastern city of Loikaw, on their way to the front lines of the battle to capture their first state capital from the junta. "Our soldiers are from Loikaw township and it's the main reason we are motivated. We all are doing our best with the hope of going back to our homes," said Lin Lin, their leader. He belongs to one of the dozens of "People's Defence Force" groups (PDFs) that sprung up across Myanmar to fight the military's 2021 coup and are now determined to capture Loikaw and deal a blow to the country's rulers. PDFs and allied ethnic minority groups have been battling the Myanmar army for weeks in and around Loikaw, a city nestled in lush hills and home to around 50,000 people in eastern Kayah state. Thousands of residents have already fled air attacks, artillery bombardments and urban battles, PDF fighters said. Earlier this week, the streets were silent apart from the sounds of sporadic artillery fire. "At the moment the military is on the defensive," said Lin Lin. The junta is reeling from an offensive by three ethnic minority groups along the rugged northern border with China that has captured several towns and blocked vital trade routes. This offensive, dubbed "Operation 1027" after the date it was launched five weeks ago, is the biggest challenge faced by Myanmar's army since it seized power. Soon after clashes erupted in northern Shan state, other PDF groups opened new fronts in several other states, including Kayah. Inside Loikaw, footage obtained by AFP shows abandoned houses and shops and streets pockmarked by explosions. Buildings have been damaged by artillery shells and on some street corners positions fortified with sandbags can be seen. The military was holed up in the city police station and other buildings, Khun Bedu, the chairman of the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF), one of the groups fighting in Loikaw, told AFP. With ground troops pinned down, the military was relying on its air and artillery strikes to support its troops, Khun Bedu said. The military "called in airstrikes on us in many places in the town last night", he told AFP on Friday. "We will continue to fight." The KNDF posted footage two weeks ago that it said showed its fighters receiving the surrender of junta troops who had been holed up in the city's university. The KNDF and allied fighters have also made several attempts to seize Loikaw's main prison, which have been beaten back, according to the KNDF and the military. Still 'under control ' Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said on Wednesday the weeks-long assault on Loikaw had shown "excessive strength". But he maintained the Loikaw region was "under control". The United Nations said it evacuated most of its staff from Loikaw last month due to "aerial bombardment of the town and active fighting" in its streets. In the north, the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) have since seized dozens of military outposts. More than 500,000 people have been displaced across Myanmar since the launch of "Operation 1027", according to the UN. Around 70 per cent of Loikaw's population is thought to have fled in recent weeks, with PDF groups claiming the military had blocked roads and tried to prevent civilians from fleeing the city. Pro-democracy fighters say they are battling on, spurred by the prize of seizing a state capital in what would be a major victory in their fight against the junta. But some are worried about the cost to their fighters, and to the city itself. "The military have lost many soldiers and they are weak right now," said Lin Lin. "We are only afraid of their air strikes."

Myanmar pro-democracy fighters battle to take state capital

Three Chinese navy ships have arrived in Myanmar on a goodwill visit as part of renewed Chinese defence engagement amid Chinese concern about a surge of fighting between Myanmar junta forces and insurgents near the Chinese border.

The guided-missile destroyer Zibo and the guided-missile frigate Jingzhou were escorted by a Myanmar frigate to docks in Myanmar's main city of Yangon on Monday, China's People's Liberation Navy (PLAN) said in a statement.

The 700-strong force, on a four-day visit, is being led by Senior Captain Sun Bo and includes a Chinese resupply ship, the Qiandaohu, the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported.

The Chinese task force would "conduct naval security exercises" with Myanmar, it reported.

The Chinese vessels are part of the Chinese Navy's 44th fleet which has conducted anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia since 2008. The 44th fleet was sighted in the United Arab Emirates this month.

China's military has stepped up defence engagement in Southeast Asia this year after the lifting of zero-COVID restrictions in late 2022.

This month, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies conducted their 35th joint patrol in Beibu Gulf since 2005, while Chinese troops held a border defence exchange with armed forces from Laos.

The Chinese naval visit comes as Myanmar junta forces are battling ethnic minority insurgents near the border with China, raising concerns in China, which has called for peace.

Chinese troops have been conducting live-fire drills on their side of the border since Saturday so that People's Liberation Army (PLA) forces are "ready for any emergency", the PLA Daily reported.

The drills, due to end on Tuesday, are in line with an annual training plan but the PLA Daily said the conflict in Myanmar had inflicted casualties and was "complicating the security situation".

Three Chinese navy ships have arrived in Myanmar on a goodwill visit as part of renewed Chinese defence engagement amid Chinese concern about a surge of fighting between Myanmar junta forces and insurgents near the Chinese border.

Three Chinese navy ships have arrived in Myanmar on a goodwill visit as part of renewed Chinese defence engagement amid Chinese concern about a surge of fighting between Myanmar junta forces and insurgents near the Chinese border. The guided-missile destroyer Zibo and the guided-missile frigate Jingzhou were escorted by a Myanmar frigate to docks in Myanmar's main city of Yangon on Monday, China's People's Liberation Navy (PLAN) said in a statement. The 700-strong force, on a four-day visit, is being led by Senior Captain Sun Bo and includes a Chinese resupply ship, the Qiandaohu, the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported. The Chinese task force would "conduct naval security exercises" with Myanmar, it reported. The Chinese vessels are part of the Chinese Navy's 44th fleet which has conducted anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia since 2008. The 44th fleet was sighted in the United Arab Emirates this month. China's military has stepped up defence engagement in Southeast Asia this year after the lifting of zero-COVID restrictions in late 2022. This month, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies conducted their 35th joint patrol in Beibu Gulf since 2005, while Chinese troops held a border defence exchange with armed forces from Laos. The Chinese naval visit comes as Myanmar junta forces are battling ethnic minority insurgents near the border with China, raising concerns in China, which has called for peace. Chinese troops have been conducting live-fire drills on their side of the border since Saturday so that People's Liberation Army (PLA) forces are "ready for any emergency", the PLA Daily reported. The drills, due to end on Tuesday, are in line with an annual training plan but the PLA Daily said the conflict in Myanmar had inflicted casualties and was "complicating the security situation".

Chinese navy ships visit Myanmar amid heightened security tensions

An ethnic minority armed group in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;has seized control&nbsp;from the country's ruling junta of a lucrative border crossing to China, local media and a security source said Sunday.

Clashes have raged across&nbsp;Myanmar's northern Shan state, close to the Chinese border, after an armed alliance of three ethnic minority groups launched an offensive against the military in October.

The groups have seized dozens of military positions and a town important for trade with China, choking commerce routes for the cash-strapped junta.

An offensive by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) -- one of the three allied groups -- captured the Kyin San Kyawt border gate, a local media outlet affiliated with the group said.

"MNDAA also reported they seized one more border trade gate, which is called Kyin San Kyawt, in Mongko area, Muse district this morning," the Kokang news reported Sunday.

It added that the alliance -- including the Arakan Army (AA) and Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) -- had taken&nbsp;other positions in the border trade zone after the assault began on Friday.

MNDAA had raised its flag at the border trade zone at Kyin San Kyawt, a security source told AFP.

The gate was re-opened in 2022 after the pandemic, and is a major trading point along the&nbsp;Myanmar-China border.

Earlier in the week, junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told state media that roughly 120 trucks, parked near the border crossing, had gone up in flames and blamed armed groups.

The uptick in fighting has battered&nbsp;Myanmar's already struggling economy, damaging vital cross-border commerce and denying the military much-needed taxes and foreign exchange.

Local reports say goods that pass through the Kyin San Kyawt crossing include machinery, electrical appliances, agricultural tractors and consumer items.

An ethnic minority armed group in Myanmar has seized control from the country's ruling junta of a lucrative border crossing to China, local media and a security source said Sunday.

An ethnic minority armed group in Myanmar has seized control from the country's ruling junta of a lucrative border crossing to China, local media and a security source said Sunday. Clashes have raged across Myanmar's northern Shan state, close to the Chinese border, after an armed alliance of three ethnic minority groups launched an offensive against the military in October. The groups have seized dozens of military positions and a town important for trade with China, choking commerce routes for the cash-strapped junta. An offensive by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) -- one of the three allied groups -- captured the Kyin San Kyawt border gate, a local media outlet affiliated with the group said. "MNDAA also reported they seized one more border trade gate, which is called Kyin San Kyawt, in Mongko area, Muse district this morning," the Kokang news reported Sunday. It added that the alliance -- including the Arakan Army (AA) and Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) -- had taken other positions in the border trade zone after the assault began on Friday. MNDAA had raised its flag at the border trade zone at Kyin San Kyawt, a security source told AFP. The gate was re-opened in 2022 after the pandemic, and is a major trading point along the Myanmar-China border. Earlier in the week, junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told state media that roughly 120 trucks, parked near the border crossing, had gone up in flames and blamed armed groups. The uptick in fighting has battered Myanmar's already struggling economy, damaging vital cross-border commerce and denying the military much-needed taxes and foreign exchange. Local reports say goods that pass through the Kyin San Kyawt crossing include machinery, electrical appliances, agricultural tractors and consumer items.

Myanmar armed group seizes China-Myanmar border crossing

China's military is gearing up for "combat training activities" along its border with Myanmar starting Saturday, following a recent incident where a convoy of trucks carrying goods into Myanmar was engulfed in flames.

Myanmar state media labeled the incident as an insurgent attack, contributing to heightened security concerns in China.

This comes at a crucial time when Chinese and Myanmar officials engaged in talks in Myanmar's capital to address concerns about border stability.&nbsp;

"About 120 out of 258 vehicles carrying household goods, consumer goods, clothes, and building materials were destroyed by fire," the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reportedly said.&nbsp;

Spokesperson for insurgents Li Kyar Win rubbished the allegations and said that it won't carry out acts that would be detrimental to the interests of the people of Myanmar.&nbsp;

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The Southern Theatre Command, one of China's People's Liberation Army's five commands, reportedly stated on WeChat that the training would assess the "rapid maneuverability, border sealing, and fire strike capabilities of theatre troops."

However, the announcement did not provide specific details regarding the timing or the number of troops involved.

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<h2>Junta says ties with China friendly&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

According to military junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun, Myanmar was informed about the drills.

He said that Chinese troops intended to "maintain stability and peace" near the border without interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs. Zaw Min Tun reassured that the military ties between China and Myanmar are strong, and both countries have friendly ties.

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The convoy fire occurred in the town of Muse against the backdrop of Myanmar's military facing challenges in maintaining control over several towns and military outposts.

The country is grappling with a significant and coordinated offensive, resulting in the displacement of over 2 million people, as reported by the United Nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

China's military is gearing up for "combat training activities" along its border with Myanmar starting Saturday, following a recent incident where a convoy of trucks carrying goods into Myanmar was engulfed in flames.

China's military is gearing up for "combat training activities" along its border with Myanmar starting Saturday, following a recent incident where a convoy of trucks carrying goods into Myanmar was engulfed in flames. Myanmar state media labeled the incident as an insurgent attack, contributing to heightened security concerns in China. This comes at a crucial time when Chinese and Myanmar officials engaged in talks in Myanmar's capital to address concerns about border stability. "About 120 out of 258 vehicles carrying household goods, consumer goods, clothes, and building materials were destroyed by fire," the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reportedly said. Spokesperson for insurgents Li Kyar Win rubbished the allegations and said that it won't carry out acts that would be detrimental to the interests of the people of Myanmar. Also Read | Explained: How China bolsters Pakistan's terror infrastructure as world remembers 26/11 victims The Southern Theatre Command, one of China's People's Liberation Army's five commands, reportedly stated on WeChat that the training would assess the "rapid maneuverability, border sealing, and fire strike capabilities of theatre troops." However, the announcement did not provide specific details regarding the timing or the number of troops involved. Also Read | Ukraine claims Russia launched 'record number' of drones against Kyiv since war started Junta says ties with China friendly According to military junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun, Myanmar was informed about the drills. He said that Chinese troops intended to "maintain stability and peace" near the border without interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs. Zaw Min Tun reassured that the military ties between China and Myanmar are strong, and both countries have friendly ties. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Hamas expected to free more hostages today × The convoy fire occurred in the town of Muse against the backdrop of Myanmar's military facing challenges in maintaining control over several towns and military outposts. The country is grappling with a significant and coordinated offensive, resulting in the displacement of over 2 million people, as reported by the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies)

China holds training drills near Myanmar border after its convoy goes up in flames

Three boats carrying over 500 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Indonesia's westernmost province, according to a UN agency. This marked the most recent group of Rohingya refugees in Indonesia who have undertaken a sea journey to escape Myanmar this year.

At least 500 Rohingyas arrive in Indonesia: UN refugee agency

Fresh clashes have erupted in South Asia's Myanmar. As per the UN, renewed fighting this week between Myanmar's military and an ethnic minority armed group has displaced more than 26,000 people in the country's Western Rakhine State.

UN: Clashes in Myanmar displaces 26,000 people

The United Nations said on Friday (Nov 18) that more than 26,000 people were displaced in Myanmar's Rakhine state as the war between the military junta and ethnic groups rages on.

The United Nations said on Friday (Nov 18) that more than 26,000 people were displaced in Myanmar's Rakhine state as the war between the military junta and ethnic groups rages on. In an update, the United Nations Office of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) said that fresh clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military "resulted in the displacement of 26,175 people" across Rakhine, the news agency AFP reported. On Monday, AA fighters launched attacks on security personnel in Rakhine and neighbouring Chin state, ending a ceasefire and opening another front as the military battled opponents in the north and the east. The UNOCHA said that at least 11 people had been killed in military shelling of AA positions since Monday. The UN agency also said that virtually all roads and waterways connecting Rakhine townships had been blocked, and most humanitarian activities in affected townships had been suspended. Over 100 detained by junta since renewed clashes Over 100 people were reportedly detained by the junta since the renewed clashes. Also read: Over 5,000 Myanmar refugees including soldiers flee to India's Mizoram for refuge amid border clashes Since late October, AA fighters in alliance with the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) seized towns and blocked vital trade routes to Myanmar's northern neighbour. The civil war has also spread to Myanmar's western and eastern borders. According to analysts, this is the biggest military challenge to the junta since 2021, when it ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi. UN urges humane treatment of captured soldiers The UN said on Friday that soldiers captured amid the ongoing civil war should be treated humanely. "Individual soldiers are not collectively responsible for crimes and human rights violations that have been committed by the military," UN rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva. "It is essential that all those captured are treated humanely," he added. "Amidst rapidly changing circumstances on the ground, it is imperative that all parties strictly respect international human rights law and international humanitarian law, particularly to protect civilians," the UN official further said and pointed out that he was particularly alarmed by renewed fighting between the military and AA in Rakhine. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar civil war: UN says fresh clashes in Rakhine displaced over 26,000

Nearly a dozen civilians were reportedly killed in Myanmar's Mandalay region's Madaya township on Thursday (Nov 17), about 270 km north of capital Naypyidaw, Radio Free Asia reported, as part of the latest flashpoint of violence in the South Asian country's ongoing civil war.&nbsp;

The publication reported the 10 victims were aged between 30 and 50. They were reportedly tied up and shot by a column of 70 soldiers passing by a tea shop in the Madaya township of Mandalay region along the Mandalay-Mogoke highway.&nbsp;

"These men, including the shop owner, were tied with their hands behind their backs before they were killed," a local resident was quoted as saying by Radio Free Asia on the condition of anonymity.

<h2>Myanmar civil war: How were the men killed?</h2>

According to local defence forces cited by the publication, the mobilisation of junta troops occurred at around 6 am on Thursday. The mobilisation occurred to reinforce soldiers at an outpost near the border of Madaya and Singu townships.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyi-moved-to-house-arrest-amidst-ongoing-myanmar-crisis-619978">Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi moved from jail to house arrest amidst ongoing crisis</a>

Less than a kilometre from a conflict area, the military column arrived at the tea shop from where hundreds of the residents had fled the fighting between junta troops and separatists owing allegiance to the People's Defense Force or PDF group.&nbsp;

The identity of those killed could not be ascertained because the junta soldiers confiscated the mobile phones of men at the tea shop, Radio Free Asia report added while citing the resident.

Also watch |&nbsp;Myanmar rebel groups take control of a border post with India, capture several towns | WION

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The representatives of Myanmar's junta are yet to react to the report.

Besides, on Thursday, 10 civilians were killed when two junta airstrikes in southern Chin state hit residences.

"The victims included an entire family and some children," a resident was quoted as saying by the Radio Free Asia.&nbsp;

"The attack occurred without any battle."

Myanmar remains under military rule since February 2021 when a coup ousted the democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly a dozen civilians were reportedly killed in Myanmar's Mandalay region's Madaya township on Thursday (Nov 17), about 270 km north of capital Naypyidaw, Radio Free Asia reported, as part of the latest flashpoint of violence in the South Asian country's ongoing civil war.

Nearly a dozen civilians were reportedly killed in Myanmar's Mandalay region's Madaya township on Thursday (Nov 17), about 270 km north of capital Naypyidaw, Radio Free Asia reported, as part of the latest flashpoint of violence in the South Asian country's ongoing civil war. The publication reported the 10 victims were aged between 30 and 50. They were reportedly tied up and shot by a column of 70 soldiers passing by a tea shop in the Madaya township of Mandalay region along the Mandalay-Mogoke highway. "These men, including the shop owner, were tied with their hands behind their backs before they were killed," a local resident was quoted as saying by Radio Free Asia on the condition of anonymity. Myanmar civil war: How were the men killed? According to local defence forces cited by the publication, the mobilisation of junta troops occurred at around 6 am on Thursday. The mobilisation occurred to reinforce soldiers at an outpost near the border of Madaya and Singu townships. Also read | Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi moved from jail to house arrest amidst ongoing crisis Less than a kilometre from a conflict area, the military column arrived at the tea shop from where hundreds of the residents had fled the fighting between junta troops and separatists owing allegiance to the People's Defense Force or PDF group. The identity of those killed could not be ascertained because the junta soldiers confiscated the mobile phones of men at the tea shop, Radio Free Asia report added while citing the resident. Also watch | Myanmar rebel groups take control of a border post with India, capture several towns | WION × The representatives of Myanmar's junta are yet to react to the report. Besides, on Thursday, 10 civilians were killed when two junta airstrikes in southern Chin state hit residences. "The victims included an entire family and some children," a resident was quoted as saying by the Radio Free Asia. "The attack occurred without any battle." Myanmar remains under military rule since February 2021 when a coup ousted the democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar civil war: 10 men shot dead by junta troops in Mandalay region, report says

US President Joe Biden spoke on workers' rights and hailed the 'substantial' progress on Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. In Myanmar, a dozen civilians were shot dead in yet another Civil War flashpoint.&nbsp;Besides, YouTubers must disclose the use of Artificial Intelligence, according to the platform's new rules.&nbsp;

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United States President Joe Biden said on Thursday (November 16) that he would continue work towards a Pacific trade pact even though his efforts and vision for regional deal to counter China didn't go through.

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The US government on Thursday (November 16) concluded the main arguments in the antitrust case against Alphabet-owned Google. This has concluded the evidentiary phase of the case in which Google finds itself accused of breaking antitrust law in order to lead the market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-civil-war-12-men-shot-dad-by-junta-troops-in-mandalay-region-report-says-659562">Myanmar civil war: 10&nbsp;men shot dad by junta troops in Mandalay region, report says</a>

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Nearly a dozen civilians were reportedly killed in Myanmar's Mandalay region's Madaya township on Thursday (Nov 17), about 270 km north of the capital Naypyidaw, Radio Free Asia reported as part of the latest flashpoint of the violence during South Asian country's ongoing civil war.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden spoke on workers' rights and hailed the 'substantial' progress on Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. In Myanmar, a dozen civilians were shot dead in yet another Civil War flashpoint.

US President Joe Biden spoke on workers' rights and hailed the 'substantial' progress on Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. In Myanmar, a dozen civilians were shot dead in yet another Civil War flashpoint. Besides, YouTubers must disclose the use of Artificial Intelligence, according to the platform's new rules. Click here to read more: APEC summit: Biden speaks on workers' rights, 'substantial' progress on IPEF United States President Joe Biden said on Thursday (November 16) that he would continue work towards a Pacific trade pact even though his efforts and vision for regional deal to counter China didn't go through. YouTube creators must disclose the use of AI × US concludes main arguments against Google in antitrust case The US government on Thursday (November 16) concluded the main arguments in the antitrust case against Alphabet-owned Google. This has concluded the evidentiary phase of the case in which Google finds itself accused of breaking antitrust law in order to lead the market. Myanmar civil war: 10 men shot dad by junta troops in Mandalay region, report says Nearly a dozen civilians were reportedly killed in Myanmar's Mandalay region's Madaya township on Thursday (Nov 17), about 270 km north of the capital Naypyidaw, Radio Free Asia reported as part of the latest flashpoint of the violence during South Asian country's ongoing civil war.

Morning brief: About Dozen people shot dead amid Myanmar's civil war, Biden hails IPEF progress, and more

Myanmar's military rulers are facing their biggest test since they seized power in 2021 coup, after three ethnic minority forces launched a coordinated offensive capturing some towns and military posts.

Myanmar rebel groups take control of a border post with India, 200,000 people displaced

Myanmar rebel groups take control of a border post with India, capture several towns | WION

Amid intense clashes between the Chin Defence Force guerrillas and the Myanmar military near the Indo-Myanmar international border, approximately 5,000 refugees,&nbsp;including 39 army personnel, have reportedly sought refuge in northeast Indian state Mizoram’s Champhai area since Sunday night (Nov 12).

The border town of Zokhawthar in India, situated just a few kilometres from the conflict epicentre in Rikhawdar, Myanmar, has become a focal point for the cross-border movement. The Tiau River is the only separation between the two towns.

On Monday (Nov 13), Manipur DGP Anil Shukla confirmed one refugee's death, with around 20 Myanmar nationals hospitalised in Mizoram. These individuals had sustained injuries in Myanmar and crossed the border for medical treatment. By Monday evening, 20 injured people were admitted to the Champhai district hospital, and an additional eight were referred to hospitals in Aizawl.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pakistan-navies-hold-drills-days-after-russias-historic-andaman-exercise-658056">Also read |&nbsp;China, Pakistan navies hold drills days after Russia-Myanmar exercise in Andaman Sea</a>

<h2>Ongoing crisis and gunfire</h2>

Despite ongoing efforts, the situation remains volatile, with reported gunfire as late as 6 pm on Monday, according to Robert Zoremtluaga, the chairman of the Local Refugee Relief Committee, who spoke to the Indian Express.

“Everyone from the two villages of Rikhawdar and Khawmami has come to the Indian side. So, the movement of people has stopped for now… Three people who have been injured in Indian territory are people who crossed over to Zokhawthar earlier. One of them has died. He had been living on the Indian side since last year,” he told the Indian Express.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Myanmar junta loses control of strategic town on China border

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Prior to this recent surge in refugee numbers, Mizoram was already hosting over 30,000 Chin refugees from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup.

Additionally, the state had accommodated more than 12,000 displaced people from the Kuki-Zomi community due to ethnic tensions in Manipur. The Mizos, Chins, and Kuki-Zomi communities share a common ethnicity, further intertwining the complex refugee situation in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid intense clashes between the Chin Defence Force guerrillas and the Myanmar military near the Indo-Myanmar international border, approximately 5,000 refugees, including 39 army personnel, have reportedly sought refuge in northeast Indian state Mizoram’s Champhai area since Sunday night (Nov 12).

Amid intense clashes between the Chin Defence Force guerrillas and the Myanmar military near the Indo-Myanmar international border, approximately 5,000 refugees, including 39 army personnel, have reportedly sought refuge in northeast Indian state Mizoram’s Champhai area since Sunday night (Nov 12). The border town of Zokhawthar in India, situated just a few kilometres from the conflict epicentre in Rikhawdar, Myanmar, has become a focal point for the cross-border movement. The Tiau River is the only separation between the two towns. On Monday (Nov 13), Manipur DGP Anil Shukla confirmed one refugee's death, with around 20 Myanmar nationals hospitalised in Mizoram. These individuals had sustained injuries in Myanmar and crossed the border for medical treatment. By Monday evening, 20 injured people were admitted to the Champhai district hospital, and an additional eight were referred to hospitals in Aizawl. Also read | China, Pakistan navies hold drills days after Russia-Myanmar exercise in Andaman Sea Ongoing crisis and gunfire Despite ongoing efforts, the situation remains volatile, with reported gunfire as late as 6 pm on Monday, according to Robert Zoremtluaga, the chairman of the Local Refugee Relief Committee, who spoke to the Indian Express. “Everyone from the two villages of Rikhawdar and Khawmami has come to the Indian side. So, the movement of people has stopped for now… Three people who have been injured in Indian territory are people who crossed over to Zokhawthar earlier. One of them has died. He had been living on the Indian side since last year,” he told the Indian Express. Also watch | Myanmar junta loses control of strategic town on China border Prior to this recent surge in refugee numbers, Mizoram was already hosting over 30,000 Chin refugees from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup. Additionally, the state had accommodated more than 12,000 displaced people from the Kuki-Zomi community due to ethnic tensions in Manipur. The Mizos, Chins, and Kuki-Zomi communities share a common ethnicity, further intertwining the complex refugee situation in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 5,000 Myanmar refugees including soldiers flee to India's Mizoram for refuge amid border clashes

Almost 50,000 people have been displaced by fighting in northern Myanmar after an alliance of ethnic armed groups launched an offensive against the military two weeks ago, the United Nations said Friday.&nbsp;

Fighting has raged for two weeks across northern Shan state near the Chinese border, in what analysts say poses the biggest military challenge to the junta since it seized power in 2021.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Arakan Army (AA) say they have seized dozens of military outposts and blocked vital trade routes to China.

"As of 9 November, almost 50,000 people in northern Shan were forced into displacement," the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) said in an update.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-armed-rebellion-puts-country-at-risk-of-breaking-apart-says-junta-backed-president-656919">Myanmar: Armed rebellion puts country at risk of breaking apart, says junta-backed president</a>

Outside Shan state's Lashio township -- home to the military's northeastern command -- internet and phone services were disrupted, hindering humanitarian responses to the fighting, UNOCHA said.

Restrictions on transport and availability of cash were hindering efforts by local humanitarian groups to give out aid, it said.&nbsp;

A further 40,000 people have been displaced by clashes between the military and its opponents in the neighbouring Sagaing region and Kachin state since early November, UNOCHA said.&nbsp;

The military has made little comment on the surprise offensive, but earlier this week the junta-appointed president warned the country could end up "split into various parts" if the military was unable to "manage" the fighting.

The remoteness of the rugged, jungle-clad region -- home to pipelines that supply oil and gas to China -- and patchy communications make it difficult to verify casualty numbers.&nbsp;

Beijing, a major junta ally and arms supplier, on Tuesday confirmed there had been Chinese casualties as a result of the clashes in Myanmar.

A foreign ministry spokesperson did not say whether the Chinese were killed or wounded, nor where precisely the incident had taken place.&nbsp;

<h2>Communications blackout</h2>

Myanmar's borderlands are home to more than a dozen ethnic armed groups, some of which have fought the military for decades over autonomy and control of lucrative resources.

Some have trained and equipped newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDF) that have sprung up since the coup to fight the military's bloody crackdown on dissent.

Earlier this week, several PDF groups claimed to have seized the town of Kawlin in Sagaing region, home to mostly ethnic-majority Bamar and a traditional recruiting ground for the military.

AFP was unable to reach residents in the area, where internet and phone lines are largely cut.

Sagaing, which borders Shan and Kachin states, has become a hotspot of resistance to junta rule.

Dozens of PDF groups are active across Sagaing, where the military is accused of burning villages and massacring inhabitants.&nbsp;

Almost 50,000 people have been displaced by fighting in northern Myanmar after an alliance of ethnic armed groups launched an offensive against the military two weeks ago, the United Nations said Friday.

Almost 50,000 people have been displaced by fighting in northern Myanmar after an alliance of ethnic armed groups launched an offensive against the military two weeks ago, the United Nations said Friday. Fighting has raged for two weeks across northern Shan state near the Chinese border, in what analysts say poses the biggest military challenge to the junta since it seized power in 2021. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Arakan Army (AA) say they have seized dozens of military outposts and blocked vital trade routes to China. "As of 9 November, almost 50,000 people in northern Shan were forced into displacement," the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) said in an update. Also read | Myanmar: Armed rebellion puts country at risk of breaking apart, says junta-backed president Outside Shan state's Lashio township -- home to the military's northeastern command -- internet and phone services were disrupted, hindering humanitarian responses to the fighting, UNOCHA said. Restrictions on transport and availability of cash were hindering efforts by local humanitarian groups to give out aid, it said. A further 40,000 people have been displaced by clashes between the military and its opponents in the neighbouring Sagaing region and Kachin state since early November, UNOCHA said. The military has made little comment on the surprise offensive, but earlier this week the junta-appointed president warned the country could end up "split into various parts" if the military was unable to "manage" the fighting. The remoteness of the rugged, jungle-clad region -- home to pipelines that supply oil and gas to China -- and patchy communications make it difficult to verify casualty numbers. Beijing, a major junta ally and arms supplier, on Tuesday confirmed there had been Chinese casualties as a result of the clashes in Myanmar. A foreign ministry spokesperson did not say whether the Chinese were killed or wounded, nor where precisely the incident had taken place. Communications blackout Myanmar's borderlands are home to more than a dozen ethnic armed groups, some of which have fought the military for decades over autonomy and control of lucrative resources. Some have trained and equipped newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDF) that have sprung up since the coup to fight the military's bloody crackdown on dissent. Earlier this week, several PDF groups claimed to have seized the town of Kawlin in Sagaing region, home to mostly ethnic-majority Bamar and a traditional recruiting ground for the military. AFP was unable to reach residents in the area, where internet and phone lines are largely cut. Sagaing, which borders Shan and Kachin states, has become a hotspot of resistance to junta rule. Dozens of PDF groups are active across Sagaing, where the military is accused of burning villages and massacring inhabitants.

Northern Myanmar fighting displaces almost 50,000 civilians: UN

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