Remember, Oscar Wilde's famous quote 'Life imitates art far more than art imitates life'. Life is indeed a reflection of art, a conscious ongoing work to find expression through varied art forms. And what is life anyway? Where do we find it? Maybe while driving cars on roads, walking on pathways, sitting across a lake or sipping tea on a stall amid a bustling city. And what connects them? Perhaps, love which binds them all, dwelling amid humanity in myriad ways, simply unacknowledged. And what does a city full of life and love create? Turn the dusty pages of history, and every time what will emerge is Art.

India's capital, Delhi, has been a safe haven for artists for ages. What the city has produced through time is a plethora of poetry, paintings, books, dance and music. The city dwellers have been always seen dancing and swinging to the musical tunes of the artists.

Is the darkness engulfing the spotlight?

Sadly, the reality seems to have altered its way for the buskers of the city who struggle to showcase their art forms and are held responsible for creating menace in public places.

Buskers, who sing their original songs and dance in their own ways on streets accumulating love and applause from onlookers, have been victims of harassment and misconduct more often. A recent video of a busker being harassed by a police officer and being asked to empty the space went viral after it was shared by Bollywood actor Rajesh Tailang. The video not only brought the law enforcer's unruly behaviour in limelight but also highlighted the blurred laws regarding busking in India, home to the world's biggest entertainment industries.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-no-sing-a-song-for-delhi-cops-police-shoo-away-a-musician-in-connaught-place-550114">WATCH| No sing a song for Delhi cops! Police shoo away a musician in Connaught Place</a>

When WION reached out to viral busker artist Anshul Riaji, who goes by the name 'Fakira', to understand how the event unfolded in F-block of Delhi's Connaught Place, he narrated, "As you can see in the video, I was singing and the audience had gathered to listen to me. I close my eyes when I perform, and I did not listen to the cop when he called me and didn't see him approaching me. And suddenly, he stopped me from playing the guitar, forcibly closed my guitar bag and asked me to leave. This is so inhuman. His words are still pinching me."

He lamented how the incident will remain etched in his heart like a scar throughout his life.

Humanity, respect, corner – is that too much to ask for??&nbsp;

This is not the first time such incidents of indecent and cruel behaviour against buskers have come in limelight. Another busker Varun Dagar had earlier shared videos of physical assault by police personnel in Delhi's Connaught Place. The video caught attention on social media and went viral as people called out the police officials to behave properly with the artists.

Talking to WION about how the video helped them survive in a better condition, Varun said, "When the incident happened and the video went viral, things changed. Before that, the police used to confiscate our personal belongings. However, after the viral video, they stopped such cruel acts. If my video had not gone viral, Anshul would have met a similar fate that day. However, at least our personal stuff is safe now. "

"Still, it feels oddly humiliating when the police suddenly interrupt us in between our act. The faces are known to us, as they keep coming regularly. A lot of times, I was taken to the police station for performing on the streets. They even call us "beggars" who are simply trying to beg and make easy money by dancing and singing. This is because of a lack of education and understanding among people about what we are doing," Varun sighed hopelessly.

He again dares to speak, "I have been harassed multiple times, mishandled. I have been hurt. I have cried. Not everything can be shared...I fear what if they don't allow me to perform if I reveal it all?"

Such mistreatment of buskers has stoked people to raise a crucial question, 'What do they seek from the city?' The viral busker Anshul says nothing but maybe a silent corner in Delhi's Connaught Place to perform and let the world see the art that hides within the soul.

WATCH| WION Fineprint | British artist burns paintings on camera

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-british-artist-burns-paintings-on-camera-524888/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The road ahead..... darker or brighter?

It is not just police officials who misbehave and demean such artists. Buskers have faced harassment at the hand of people themselves, who mock them, throw insulting words and laugh at their art. The number of such miscreants has indeed been very less compared to those people who have supported and revelled in the rhythm of buskers.

"Before 8:30 at night, we are likely to encounter people who tease us and mistreat us, for our art. They lack an understanding of what we are creating They try to demotivate us and start dancing in the middle of our performance. It is important that we relay the message that buskers are not beggars and that people give whatever they want purely out of love and not as a beg," Varun says, as he wonders if eyes that gawk at him as if he is a beggar would ever change their viewpoint.

Speaking to WION about the plight of street artists, actor Adil Hussain said, "In India, the culture of busking is looked down upon because most of the street performers are from the lower economic run. We are a nation of performers, still, they have been facing mistreatment right from the beginning of independence because the governments never came up with a policy which would enable or make people aware of the art forms present in all the street performances. So, we failed to educate people to respect that kind of art."

"Anyways, art always gets the backseat in government policies. Only when we have to present something to foreign dignitaries, do we call performers, make them dance and forget them. That's what has been the general practise of consecutive governments since Independence," he adds.

Mistreatment, penury and debarment, artists have been always forced to walk through rough roads and not even cry or wail when pain seems to seep inside their hearts. Who should be held guilty? Why is art still the 'forbidden fruit' of our society? Perhaps, it is the lack of education, which builds the core of a human personality, that has given birth to such closed eyes and closed minds.

"So, there is anyways very low awareness about the importance of art in society and especially in India, though we come with the amazing richness of different and all kinds of art forms since the education system has completely wiped off any artistic practice from the childhood, so people think that is unimportant things that people do," the actor said.

WATCH| Art from marine rubbish – what these artists are making out of ropes, nets, plastic

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Cementing the broken path&nbsp;

The question that honks the minds of art lovers and connoisseurs is how do we stop this misbehaviour? What should be done to make Delhi a better place for buskers?

"Buskers need to define and similarly the art of busking. Busking is all about originality. The art should be licensed but the art must be defined, only those performing original art should be included as buskers," Varun demands.

Talking about the steps needed to improve the life of buskers, Adil emphasises how consumerism has been propagated in society and humans have turned into mere consumers.

"The administration is okay with shopkeepers, hawkers and street sellers selling things on the street, so we are propagating consumerism. Imagine we have been reduced to the mere consumer, which is propagated, but an artistic activity which will console your soul and uplift your spirit is not being given an equal opportunity like the sellers are given," the actor explains.

"I think this should be taken up seriously by the government. So, the government should come up with a policy that buskers and artists and street performers should be treated with the utmost respect and should be given space to perform. They should be licensed but the procedure of license should be simple and not a complicated one," he further adds.

Whether buskers will get a defined license in future or not remain unknown, but what we can understand is that this is the society we live in and so do they, if not encourage them, we can allow them to breathe the way they want. 
&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Remember, Oscar Wilde's famous quote 'Life imitates art far more than art imitates life'. Life is indeed a reflection of art, a conscious ongoing work to find expression through varied art forms.

Remember, Oscar Wilde's famous quote 'Life imitates art far more than art imitates life'. Life is indeed a reflection of art, a conscious ongoing work to find expression through varied art forms. And what is life anyway? Where do we find it? Maybe while driving cars on roads, walking on pathways, sitting across a lake or sipping tea on a stall amid a bustling city. And what connects them? Perhaps, love which binds them all, dwelling amid humanity in myriad ways, simply unacknowledged. And what does a city full of life and love create? Turn the dusty pages of history, and every time what will emerge is Art. India's capital, Delhi, has been a safe haven for artists for ages. What the city has produced through time is a plethora of poetry, paintings, books, dance and music. The city dwellers have been always seen dancing and swinging to the musical tunes of the artists. Is the darkness engulfing the spotlight? Sadly, the reality seems to have altered its way for the buskers of the city who struggle to showcase their art forms and are held responsible for creating menace in public places. Buskers, who sing their original songs and dance in their own ways on streets accumulating love and applause from onlookers, have been victims of harassment and misconduct more often. A recent video of a busker being harassed by a police officer and being asked to empty the space went viral after it was shared by Bollywood actor Rajesh Tailang. The video not only brought the law enforcer's unruly behaviour in limelight but also highlighted the blurred laws regarding busking in India, home to the world's biggest entertainment industries. ALSO READ| WATCH| No sing a song for Delhi cops! Police shoo away a musician in Connaught Place When WION reached out to viral busker artist Anshul Riaji, who goes by the name 'Fakira', to understand how the event unfolded in F-block of Delhi's Connaught Place, he narrated, "As you can see in the video, I was singing and the audience had gathered to listen to me. I close my eyes when I perform, and I did not listen to the cop when he called me and didn't see him approaching me. And suddenly, he stopped me from playing the guitar, forcibly closed my guitar bag and asked me to leave. This is so inhuman. His words are still pinching me." He lamented how the incident will remain etched in his heart like a scar throughout his life. Humanity, respect, corner – is that too much to ask for?? This is not the first time such incidents of indecent and cruel behaviour against buskers have come in limelight. Another busker Varun Dagar had earlier shared videos of physical assault by police personnel in Delhi's Connaught Place. The video caught attention on social media and went viral as people called out the police officials to behave properly with the artists. Talking to WION about how the video helped them survive in a better condition, Varun said, "When the incident happened and the video went viral, things changed. Before that, the police used to confiscate our personal belongings. However, after the viral video, they stopped such cruel acts. If my video had not gone viral, Anshul would have met a similar fate that day. However, at least our personal stuff is safe now. " "Still, it feels oddly humiliating when the police suddenly interrupt us in between our act. The faces are known to us, as they keep coming regularly. A lot of times, I was taken to the police station for performing on the streets. They even call us "beggars" who are simply trying to beg and make easy money by dancing and singing. This is because of a lack of education and understanding among people about what we are doing," Varun sighed hopelessly. He again dares to speak, "I have been harassed multiple times, mishandled. I have been hurt. I have cried. Not everything can be shared...I fear what if they don't allow me to perform if I reveal it all?" Such mistreatment of buskers has stoked people to raise a crucial question, 'What do they seek from the city?' The viral busker Anshul says nothing but maybe a silent corner in Delhi's Connaught Place to perform and let the world see the art that hides within the soul. WATCH| WION Fineprint | British artist burns paintings on camera The road ahead..... darker or brighter? It is not just police officials who misbehave and demean such artists. Buskers have faced harassment at the hand of people themselves, who mock them, throw insulting words and laugh at their art. The number of such miscreants has indeed been very less compared to those people who have supported and revelled in the rhythm of buskers. "Before 8:30 at night, we are likely to encounter people who tease us and mistreat us, for our art. They lack an understanding of what we are creating They try to demotivate us and start dancing in the middle of our performance. It is important that we relay the message that buskers are not beggars and that people give whatever they want purely out of love and not as a beg," Varun says, as he wonders if eyes that gawk at him as if he is a beggar would ever change their viewpoint. Speaking to WION about the plight of street artists, actor Adil Hussain said, "In India, the culture of busking is looked down upon because most of the street performers are from the lower economic run. We are a nation of performers, still, they have been facing mistreatment right from the beginning of independence because the governments never came up with a policy which would enable or make people aware of the art forms present in all the street performances. So, we failed to educate people to respect that kind of art." "Anyways, art always gets the backseat in government policies. Only when we have to present something to foreign dignitaries, do we call performers, make them dance and forget them. That's what has been the general practise of consecutive governments since Independence," he adds. Mistreatment, penury and debarment, artists have been always forced to walk through rough roads and not even cry or wail when pain seems to seep inside their hearts. Who should be held guilty? Why is art still the 'forbidden fruit' of our society? Perhaps, it is the lack of education, which builds the core of a human personality, that has given birth to such closed eyes and closed minds. "So, there is anyways very low awareness about the importance of art in society and especially in India, though we come with the amazing richness of different and all kinds of art forms since the education system has completely wiped off any artistic practice from the childhood, so people think that is unimportant things that people do," the actor said. WATCH| Art from marine rubbish – what these artists are making out of ropes, nets, plastic Cementing the broken path The question that honks the minds of art lovers and connoisseurs is how do we stop this misbehaviour? What should be done to make Delhi a better place for buskers? "Buskers need to define and similarly the art of busking. Busking is all about originality. The art should be licensed but the art must be defined, only those performing original art should be included as buskers," Varun demands. Talking about the steps needed to improve the life of buskers, Adil emphasises how consumerism has been propagated in society and humans have turned into mere consumers. "The administration is okay with shopkeepers, hawkers and street sellers selling things on the street, so we are propagating consumerism. Imagine we have been reduced to the mere consumer, which is propagated, but an artistic activity which will console your soul and uplift your spirit is not being given an equal opportunity like the sellers are given," the actor explains. "I think this should be taken up seriously by the government. So, the government should come up with a policy that buskers and artists and street performers should be treated with the utmost respect and should be given space to perform. They should be licensed but the procedure of license should be simple and not a complicated one," he further adds. Whether buskers will get a defined license in future or not remain unknown, but what we can understand is that this is the society we live in and so do they, if not encourage them, we can allow them to breathe the way they want. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

City, life and love| Can Delhi, the capital of art fiestas, lend its corners to its buskers?

India Open 2023:&nbsp;India Open (Badminton) 2023 is all set to kick off on Tuesday, 17 January in the capital city of India, New Delhi. The tournament is one of the most significant tournaments in India as this time it got to hold a Super 750 status. Super 750 is one of the six levels in which the BWF World Tour is divided, this will be the first time that India will hold a tournament in this level category.&nbsp;Top badminton players like World No. 2 Viktor Axelsen, Akane Yamaguchi, and Lee Zii Jia will compete with each other at the tournament. From India, PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy, Lakshya Sen and Saina Nehwal will grace the tournament with their stellar game.

All the tournament matches will be held at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi and are organised by the Badminton Association of India with sanction from the Badminton World Federation. This is the second tournament of the 2023 BWF World Tour and is also part of the India Open championships. The India Open has been held in the country since 2008.&nbsp;

<h2>When is the India Open 2023 tournament?</h2>

The India Open will start on Tuesday, 17 January and will be played till 22 January 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>Where is the India Open 2023 tournament?</h2>

The India Open 2023 tournament will be held in New Delhi, India at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall.&nbsp;

<h2>How and where to watch the India Open 2023 LIVE tournament?</h2>

Fans can watch the live telecast of the 2023 Indian Open on EuroSport India. Fans can also watch&nbsp;India open 2023 live streaming on BWF official YouTube channel.

<h2>What time will the India Open 2023 tournament begin?&nbsp;</h2>

All the matches in various categories- Men's singles, Women's singles, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles will begin on 17 January 2023 at 10:00 am IST.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Who won the India&nbsp;Open in 2022?</h2>

Following will be the defending champions this year at India Open&nbsp;in various categories:&nbsp;

Men’s singles –&nbsp;Lakshya Sen (India) 
Women’s singles –&nbsp;Busanan Ongbamrungphan (Thailand) 
Men’s doubles –&nbsp;Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty (India) 
Women’s doubles –&nbsp;Benyapa Aimsaard/Nuntakarn Aimsaard (Thailand) 
Mixed doubles –&nbsp; Terry Hee/Tan Wei Han (Indonesia)

&nbsp;

India Open 2023: India Open (Badminton) 2023 is all set to kick off on Tuesday, 17 January in the capital city of India, New Delhi. The tournament is one of the most significant tournaments in India as this time it got to hold a Super 750 status.

India Open 2023: India Open (Badminton) 2023 is all set to kick off on Tuesday, 17 January in the capital city of India, New Delhi. The tournament is one of the most significant tournaments in India as this time it got to hold a Super 750 status. Super 750 is one of the six levels in which the BWF World Tour is divided, this will be the first time that India will hold a tournament in this level category. Top badminton players like World No. 2 Viktor Axelsen, Akane Yamaguchi, and Lee Zii Jia will compete with each other at the tournament. From India, PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy, Lakshya Sen and Saina Nehwal will grace the tournament with their stellar game. All the tournament matches will be held at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi and are organised by the Badminton Association of India with sanction from the Badminton World Federation. This is the second tournament of the 2023 BWF World Tour and is also part of the India Open championships. The India Open has been held in the country since 2008. When is the India Open 2023 tournament? The India Open will start on Tuesday, 17 January and will be played till 22 January 2023. Where is the India Open 2023 tournament? The India Open 2023 tournament will be held in New Delhi, India at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall. How and where to watch the India Open 2023 LIVE tournament? Fans can watch the live telecast of the 2023 Indian Open on EuroSport India. Fans can also watch India open 2023 live streaming on BWF official YouTube channel. What time will the India Open 2023 tournament begin? All the matches in various categories- Men's singles, Women's singles, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles will begin on 17 January 2023 at 10:00 am IST. Who won the India Open in 2022? Following will be the defending champions this year at India Open in various categories: Men’s singles – Lakshya Sen (India) Women’s singles – Busanan Ongbamrungphan (Thailand) Men’s doubles – Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty (India) Women’s doubles – Benyapa Aimsaard/Nuntakarn Aimsaard (Thailand) Mixed doubles – Terry Hee/Tan Wei Han (Indonesia)

India Open Badminton 2023 Live streaming: How to watch India Open 2023 live streaming in your country, India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022. The country will host over 200 meetings, addressing 32 different sectors, during the period between December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023.&nbsp;

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The G-20 Summit in India in 2023 will reflect the spirit of वसुधैव कुटुंबकम…One Earth, One Family, One Future! <a href="https://t.co/FVEPBOTKev">pic.twitter.com/FVEPBOTKev</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1589958522091229184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The first G20 sherpa meet under the Indian presidency will take place between December 4th to December 7th, 2022 in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan state in North India.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whats-g20-all-about-what-does-it-do-how-does-it-work-424950">What's G20 all about? What does it do, how does it work?</a>

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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the logo and website for India’s G-20 presidency. Modi said that thousands of people shared their ideas and suggestions for the G20 logo and theme. He said that the G20 presidency offers India an opportunity to contribute to the global agenda.

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The symbol of the lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope. <a href="https://t.co/HTceHGsbFu">pic.twitter.com/HTceHGsbFu</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1589941956637261825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“India's G20 presidency is coming at a time of crisis and chaos in the world. The world is going through the aftereffects of disruptive once-in-a-century pandemic, conflicts and lot of economic uncertainty,” he said. “The symbol of lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope in these times. No matter how adverse the circumstances, the lotus still blooms.”

“In Indian culture, both the goddesses of knowledge and prosperity are seated on a lotus. This is what the world needs the most today. Shared knowledge that helps us overcome our circumstances and shared prosperity that reaches the last person at the last mile. This is why the earth is placed on lotus too. The seven petals on the lotus in the logo are also significant. It represents the seven continents. Seven is also the number of notes in the universal language of music. In music, when the seven notes come together, they create perfect harmony,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;

Italy and Indonesia, along with India, are part of the G20 troika: past, present, and incoming presidencies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced his state visit to Indonesia next week, while unveiling the theme, logo, and website for New Delhi G20 summit.&nbsp;

The Group of Twenty countries represents nearly 90 per cent of the global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade), and two-thirds of the world’s population. India has been a member of the G20 since its inception in 1999. Its other 19 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022. The country will host over 200 meetings, addressing 32 different sectors, during the period between December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023. The G-20 Summit in India in 2023 will reflect the spirit of वसुधैव कुटुंबकम…One Earth, One Family, One Future! pic.twitter.com/FVEPBOTKev — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 8, 2022 × The first G20 sherpa meet under the Indian presidency will take place between December 4th to December 7th, 2022 in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan state in North India. WATCH | What's G20 all about? What does it do, how does it work? × India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the logo and website for India’s G-20 presidency. Modi said that thousands of people shared their ideas and suggestions for the G20 logo and theme. He said that the G20 presidency offers India an opportunity to contribute to the global agenda. The symbol of the lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope. pic.twitter.com/HTceHGsbFu — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 8, 2022 × “India's G20 presidency is coming at a time of crisis and chaos in the world. The world is going through the aftereffects of disruptive once-in-a-century pandemic, conflicts and lot of economic uncertainty,” he said. “The symbol of lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope in these times. No matter how adverse the circumstances, the lotus still blooms.” “In Indian culture, both the goddesses of knowledge and prosperity are seated on a lotus. This is what the world needs the most today. Shared knowledge that helps us overcome our circumstances and shared prosperity that reaches the last person at the last mile. This is why the earth is placed on lotus too. The seven petals on the lotus in the logo are also significant. It represents the seven continents. Seven is also the number of notes in the universal language of music. In music, when the seven notes come together, they create perfect harmony,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. Italy and Indonesia, along with India, are part of the G20 troika: past, present, and incoming presidencies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced his state visit to Indonesia next week, while unveiling the theme, logo, and website for New Delhi G20 summit. The Group of Twenty countries represents nearly 90 per cent of the global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade), and two-thirds of the world’s population. India has been a member of the G20 since its inception in 1999. Its other 19 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Shared knowledge and prosperity’: India’s PM Modi unveils theme, logo for New Delhi G20 summit

While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average.

The relative humidity at 8.30 am was recorded at 65 per cent and 49 per cent in the evening, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

The weather office had forecast clear skies during the day, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 31 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, the city's air quality on the morning after Diwali stood in the 'very poor' category with its Air Quality Index (AQI) being recorded at 326 at 9.15 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. It dropped to 312 at 4.10 pm.

An 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'.

Delhi's AQI had slipped into the 'very poor' category on Monday itself amid increased stubble burning, bursting of firecrackers in many areas and moderately unfavourable meteorological conditions which allowed accumulation of pollutants.

The maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 31.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, whereas the minimum stood at 14.5 degrees Celsius, two notches down.

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While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average.

While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average. The relative humidity at 8.30 am was recorded at 65 per cent and 49 per cent in the evening, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) data. The weather office had forecast clear skies during the day, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 31 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the city's air quality on the morning after Diwali stood in the 'very poor' category with its Air Quality Index (AQI) being recorded at 326 at 9.15 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. It dropped to 312 at 4.10 pm. An 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'. Delhi's AQI had slipped into the 'very poor' category on Monday itself amid increased stubble burning, bursting of firecrackers in many areas and moderately unfavourable meteorological conditions which allowed accumulation of pollutants. The maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 31.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, whereas the minimum stood at 14.5 degrees Celsius, two notches down. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Delhi's max temperature settles at 30.7 deg C, AQI 'very poor'

India is all set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) national coordinators' meeting next week in Delhi. The meet will take place from October 17-18 and will be the first such national coordinator meet under the Indian presidency. New Delhi took over the presidency of the nine-member grouping earlier this year at the Samarkand SCO summit.&nbsp;

National coordinator, basically the role "Sherpas" play in G20 meetings decide on the issues that will be taken up in the grouping. India's national coordinator for SCO is Yojna Patel, an IFS of 2000 batch. The meet takes place in a hybrid mode, with the Pakistani delegation also attending it. During the course of the event, the focus will also be on agenda under the Indian presidency of the grouping.&nbsp;

India will be holding the SCO foreign, defence, national security advisers and summit-level meeting of the grouping next year. This month India also hosted anti-terror SCO drills in Haryana and the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) council meet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-sco-summit-2022-we-are-supporting-innovation-in-every-sector-516867">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: SCO Summit 2022: 'We are supporting innovation in every sector'</a>

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The grouping, which came into being in 2001 has nine countries as its members viz. Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Iran and the four central Asian countries viz. Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan. Iran became the latest member of the grouping this year and will attend the summit as a full-fledged member next year at the India SCO summit.&nbsp;

India, along with Pakistan became a member of the grouping in 2017. Geographically, economically and population wise, it is one of the largest groupings on the planet, extending from Vladivostok to Chabahar and from St Petersburg to Chennai.

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India is all set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) national coordinators' meeting next week in Delhi. The meet will take place from October 17-18 and will be the first such national coordinator meet under the Indian presidency.

India is all set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) national coordinators' meeting next week in Delhi. The meet will take place from October 17-18 and will be the first such national coordinator meet under the Indian presidency. New Delhi took over the presidency of the nine-member grouping earlier this year at the Samarkand SCO summit. National coordinator, basically the role "Sherpas" play in G20 meetings decide on the issues that will be taken up in the grouping. India's national coordinator for SCO is Yojna Patel, an IFS of 2000 batch. The meet takes place in a hybrid mode, with the Pakistani delegation also attending it. During the course of the event, the focus will also be on agenda under the Indian presidency of the grouping. India will be holding the SCO foreign, defence, national security advisers and summit-level meeting of the grouping next year. This month India also hosted anti-terror SCO drills in Haryana and the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) council meet. WATCH | WION Dispatch: SCO Summit 2022: 'We are supporting innovation in every sector' × The grouping, which came into being in 2001 has nine countries as its members viz. Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Iran and the four central Asian countries viz. Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan. Iran became the latest member of the grouping this year and will attend the summit as a full-fledged member next year at the India SCO summit. India, along with Pakistan became a member of the grouping in 2017. Geographically, economically and population wise, it is one of the largest groupings on the planet, extending from Vladivostok to Chabahar and from St Petersburg to Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India to host SCO national coordinators’ meet next week

USA's attempt to kick start the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) may have been dealt an early blow as India walked out of the trade talks. Reportedly, in a statement released after two days of negotiations in Los Angeles, the US side released a statement explaining India's position.

USA's attempt to kick start the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) may have been dealt an early blow as India walked out of the trade talks. Reportedly, in a statement released after two days of negotiations in Los Angeles, the US side released a statement explaining India's position. “India is not now in the ‘trade pillar’. However, minister (Piyush) Goyal and I have been talking and we have our bilateral and trade policy forum. I should be meeting him by the end of this year. We would cover the same issues in that bilateral channel,” said US trade representative Katherine Tai. Stating that doors remained open for New Delhi to join the economic side of the platform, Tai further added, “That question you should pose to minister Goyal. I wouldn’t characterise it as opting out, India is not in the trade pillar right now.” It is pertinent to note that Joe Biden launched the IPEF initiative in May earlier this year. IPEF is an attempt by Washington to bring together Asian countries to counter China's influence in the region. India, Australia, Brunei, Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the US are the 14 members of the grouping. Read more: PM Modi to be present at the launch of President Biden's Indo-Pacific Economic framework IPEF features four main focus areas viz. supply chain resiliency, connected economy, clean energy transformation (clean energy, decarbonisation, and infrastructure), and fair economy (anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and tax). While India will be part of three out of the four pillars i.e supply chain, clean economy, and fair economy, it has refrained from joining the connected economy. And this is not the first time that New Delhi has opted out of joining an economic arrangement in a new grouping, In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government took the rather bold approach of not joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) WATCH | India rejects calls to join Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India pulls out of trade talks with US led Indo-Pacific group

India's new parliament building is under construction in New Delhi, which is a part of India's Central Vista Research Project. The existing parliament house is just opposite the new building. The proposals for building a new parliament started in 2010 after concerns were raised&nbsp;regarding the building's stability. The present parliament house was built in the colonial era,&nbsp;designed by British architects&nbsp;Herbert Baker and Sir Edwin Lutyens. It took six years to build. According to the central vista government's site, the construction of the new building has till now used&nbsp;24,605 mt steel,&nbsp;57,225 mt cement, and 8,431 cubic meters of fly ash. The government has also given information&nbsp;about the interior of the building, which would have the three national symbols as their main themes, peacock, lotus, and the banyan tree. It is triangular in shape and will be four-storeyed.&nbsp;It will open in the later winter of this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Which Company builds&nbsp;the new parliament building?</h2>

The new parliament building is constructed by Tata Projects Limited. It won the bid to build the new parliament in September 2020 for&nbsp;₹862 crores. The construction started in December 2020. The architect in charge is Bimal Patel&nbsp;and according to him the building will have a lifespan of over 150 years and it will also be earthquake resistant. Seats would also have larger spacing in between and be comfortable.&nbsp;

<h2>Seating Capacity of the new parliament building</h2>

The new parliament building will have a seating capacity of&nbsp;1,224. It has&nbsp;384 seats in the Rajya Sabha and 888 seats in the Lok Sabha chamber. It is also made techno-friendly and screens will be installed on the tables for each MP so that they can vote with its help and also can request for speaking and raising a point in the house. The seats would also have enough gaping unlike the ones in the old parliament building.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the new parliament building design based on?</h2>

The design of the Parliament building will showcase the culture and spirit of India so that people can associate them with it better. Yoga, Vedas, folk, and Sufi culture will also be included in the design. Lok Sabha is based on the peacock design, which is India's national bird. The Rajya Sabha will be designed on the lotus theme, which is India's national flower and the Central Lounge will be based on&nbsp;banyan tree design. The interior walls of the new building would have shlokas written on them. It will be crowned by the National Emblem.&nbsp;

<h2>Ashok Symbol in the new parliament building</h2>

The Ashok Symbol would be placed on top of the new parliament building. It weighs&nbsp;around 9,500 kilograms and is&nbsp;6.5 meters high, while the supporting structure weighs around 6,500 kgs. It is made of bronze and took over 100 people to be built. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the National Emblem on July 11. It is three-dimensional and has gone through many different stages of preparations and trials to be built completely.

<h2>Why opposition is criticizing PM Modi?</h2>

Opposition parties including Congress,&nbsp;CPI(M), and AIMIM are criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that the inauguration of the National Emblem has violated the constitution as according to the constitution there should be a separation of power between the Executive and the Legislature. Some are even saying that why PM Modi conducted a pooja before the inauguration and not called priests of other religions. Congress said that the "change is visible now", while Aam Admi Party also criticized the government saying that if someone is changing the national symbol, they should be called "anti-national".&nbsp;But, BJP has dismissed the criticism that they are receiving from the opposition

The new parliament building will be completed by the end of this year. The modern and techno-friendly designs of the building with more comfortable seating arrangements will be beneficial for the MPs.&nbsp;People all over the country are excited to see the final structure of the building.&nbsp;

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India's new parliament building is under construction in New Delhi, which is a part of India's Central Vista Research Project. The existing parliament house is just opposite the new building.

India's new parliament building is under construction in New Delhi, which is a part of India's Central Vista Research Project. The existing parliament house is just opposite the new building. The proposals for building a new parliament started in 2010 after concerns were raised regarding the building's stability. The present parliament house was built in the colonial era, designed by British architects Herbert Baker and Sir Edwin Lutyens. It took six years to build. According to the central vista government's site, the construction of the new building has till now used 24,605 mt steel, 57,225 mt cement, and 8,431 cubic meters of fly ash. The government has also given information about the interior of the building, which would have the three national symbols as their main themes, peacock, lotus, and the banyan tree. It is triangular in shape and will be four-storeyed. It will open in the later winter of this year. Which Company builds the new parliament building? The new parliament building is constructed by Tata Projects Limited. It won the bid to build the new parliament in September 2020 for ₹862 crores. The construction started in December 2020. The architect in charge is Bimal Patel and according to him the building will have a lifespan of over 150 years and it will also be earthquake resistant. Seats would also have larger spacing in between and be comfortable. Seating Capacity of the new parliament building The new parliament building will have a seating capacity of 1,224. It has 384 seats in the Rajya Sabha and 888 seats in the Lok Sabha chamber. It is also made techno-friendly and screens will be installed on the tables for each MP so that they can vote with its help and also can request for speaking and raising a point in the house. The seats would also have enough gaping unlike the ones in the old parliament building. What is the new parliament building design based on? The design of the Parliament building will showcase the culture and spirit of India so that people can associate them with it better. Yoga, Vedas, folk, and Sufi culture will also be included in the design. Lok Sabha is based on the peacock design, which is India's national bird. The Rajya Sabha will be designed on the lotus theme, which is India's national flower and the Central Lounge will be based on banyan tree design. The interior walls of the new building would have shlokas written on them. It will be crowned by the National Emblem. Ashok Symbol in the new parliament building The Ashok Symbol would be placed on top of the new parliament building. It weighs around 9,500 kilograms and is 6.5 meters high, while the supporting structure weighs around 6,500 kgs. It is made of bronze and took over 100 people to be built. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the National Emblem on July 11. It is three-dimensional and has gone through many different stages of preparations and trials to be built completely. Why opposition is criticizing PM Modi? Opposition parties including Congress, CPI(M), and AIMIM are criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that the inauguration of the National Emblem has violated the constitution as according to the constitution there should be a separation of power between the Executive and the Legislature. Some are even saying that why PM Modi conducted a pooja before the inauguration and not called priests of other religions. Congress said that the "change is visible now", while Aam Admi Party also criticized the government saying that if someone is changing the national symbol, they should be called "anti-national". But, BJP has dismissed the criticism that they are receiving from the opposition The new parliament building will be completed by the end of this year. The modern and techno-friendly designs of the building with more comfortable seating arrangements will be beneficial for the MPs. People all over the country are excited to see the final structure of the building. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Do you know about the new Indian parliament building? Check these amazing facts

India experienced not just more heat this summer, but more air pollution too. A new analysis reveals that India's national capital New Delhi saw a rise in air pollution during summers in 2022 compared to 2021 with the city's particulate matter levels significantly breaching the permissible limits, a new analysis said on Wednesday. According to the new analysis by NCAP Tracker, an initiative by environment organizations Climate Trends and Respirer Living Sciences, &nbsp;PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels in New Delhi this year were five times higher than the levels permitted by India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) across the four summer months of March, April, May and June.

The NCAP Tracker, designed to track India's progress in achieving the 2024 clean air targets set under the country's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), took a look at air pollution in 10 Indian cities - New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Agra, Chandigarh, Chennai, Jodhpur, Lucknow and Patna. The analysis showed that all these cities except Chennai recorded higher than permissible PM 2.5 levels in March 2022 and all cities breached permissible limits for PM 10 levels.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/once-prosperous-sri-lankans-will-now-cook-with-firewood-economic-mismanagement-is-the-reason-494957">&nbsp;Once prosperous, Sri Lankans will now cook with firewood, as economic mismanagement hits hard</a>

In April, levels improved only in Kolkata and it joined Chennai in the cities which did not breach safety limits for PM 2.5, it said, adding that Chennai was also the only city with PM 10 levels within safe limits during April, it said. As per the analysis, similar trends continued in May when only Chennai, Bengaluru and Kolkata saw PM 2.5 levels within safe limits and no city met the safety standard for PM 10 levels. The report said that with some parts of the country receiving rains in June 2022, five Indian cities – Agra, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai saw their PM 2.5 levels improve and within the CPCB safety limits.

As per India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), annual average permissible limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10 are 40 ug/m3 and 60 ug/m3 respectively. The World Health Organization's safe limits are lower at 5 ug/m3 and 15 ug/m3 respectively. The analysis also found that among the 10 cities, another pollutant, &nbsp;Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), breached annual safety limits of 40 ug/m3 in the cities of Patna and Delhi during March and April this year and in Chandigarh from April to June. As per CPCB, the annual average permissible limit for NO2 is 40 ug/m3 and as per WHO it is 10 ug/m3.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/udaipur-terror-attack-how-my-hometown-turned-into-a-curfew-zone-494414">Udaipur terror attack: How my hometown turned into a curfew zone &nbsp;</a>

"This year, the country was reeling under multiple heatwaves from as early as March with record-breaking temperatures all across. March was the warmest in 121 years and the country recorded an average maximum temperature of 33.1 degrees Celsius, an all-time-high and 1.86 degrees Celsius above normal levels. Similar trends continued in the following months," it said. The Indian pollution watchdog CPCB and WHO have also given 24-hour safe limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10. While CPCB's 24-hour safe limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10 are 60 ug/m3 and 100 ug/m3 respectively, the WHO's 24-hour safe limits are lower at 15 ug/m3 and 45 ug/m3 for the two pollutants, respectively.

The analysis said that the average PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels for each day show that several Indian cities have continuous streaks of highly polluted days. "In April 2022, New Delhi did not have a single day when PM 2.5 met the CPCB’s 24-hour safe limit of 60 ug/m3. Similarly, a coastal city like Mumbai had only nine days when PM 2.5 concentration didn’t breach the safe limits. "Such prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution can have an impact on human health," it said.

India launched the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) on 10th January 2019 to address air pollution in 102 cities, to which 20 more cities were added later in the year. These 122 cities are called non-attainment cities. 
&nbsp;

India experienced not just more heat this summer, but more air pollution too. A new analysis reveals that India's national capital New Delhi saw a rise in air pollution during summers in 2022 compared to 2021 with the city's particulate matter levels significantly breaching the permissible limits, a new analysis said on Wednesday.

India experienced not just more heat this summer, but more air pollution too. A new analysis reveals that India's national capital New Delhi saw a rise in air pollution during summers in 2022 compared to 2021 with the city's particulate matter levels significantly breaching the permissible limits, a new analysis said on Wednesday. According to the new analysis by NCAP Tracker, an initiative by environment organizations Climate Trends and Respirer Living Sciences, PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels in New Delhi this year were five times higher than the levels permitted by India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) across the four summer months of March, April, May and June. The NCAP Tracker, designed to track India's progress in achieving the 2024 clean air targets set under the country's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), took a look at air pollution in 10 Indian cities - New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Agra, Chandigarh, Chennai, Jodhpur, Lucknow and Patna. The analysis showed that all these cities except Chennai recorded higher than permissible PM 2.5 levels in March 2022 and all cities breached permissible limits for PM 10 levels. Also Read: Once prosperous, Sri Lankans will now cook with firewood, as economic mismanagement hits hard In April, levels improved only in Kolkata and it joined Chennai in the cities which did not breach safety limits for PM 2.5, it said, adding that Chennai was also the only city with PM 10 levels within safe limits during April, it said. As per the analysis, similar trends continued in May when only Chennai, Bengaluru and Kolkata saw PM 2.5 levels within safe limits and no city met the safety standard for PM 10 levels. The report said that with some parts of the country receiving rains in June 2022, five Indian cities – Agra, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai saw their PM 2.5 levels improve and within the CPCB safety limits. As per India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), annual average permissible limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10 are 40 ug/m3 and 60 ug/m3 respectively. The World Health Organization's safe limits are lower at 5 ug/m3 and 15 ug/m3 respectively. The analysis also found that among the 10 cities, another pollutant, Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), breached annual safety limits of 40 ug/m3 in the cities of Patna and Delhi during March and April this year and in Chandigarh from April to June. As per CPCB, the annual average permissible limit for NO2 is 40 ug/m3 and as per WHO it is 10 ug/m3. Also Read: Udaipur terror attack: How my hometown turned into a curfew zone "This year, the country was reeling under multiple heatwaves from as early as March with record-breaking temperatures all across. March was the warmest in 121 years and the country recorded an average maximum temperature of 33.1 degrees Celsius, an all-time-high and 1.86 degrees Celsius above normal levels. Similar trends continued in the following months," it said. The Indian pollution watchdog CPCB and WHO have also given 24-hour safe limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10. While CPCB's 24-hour safe limits for PM 2.5 and PM 10 are 60 ug/m3 and 100 ug/m3 respectively, the WHO's 24-hour safe limits are lower at 15 ug/m3 and 45 ug/m3 for the two pollutants, respectively. The analysis said that the average PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels for each day show that several Indian cities have continuous streaks of highly polluted days. "In April 2022, New Delhi did not have a single day when PM 2.5 met the CPCB’s 24-hour safe limit of 60 ug/m3. Similarly, a coastal city like Mumbai had only nine days when PM 2.5 concentration didn’t breach the safe limits. "Such prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution can have an impact on human health," it said. India launched the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) on 10th January 2019 to address air pollution in 102 cities, to which 20 more cities were added later in the year. These 122 cities are called non-attainment cities.

New Delhi's air pollutants five times higher than permissible limit: Analysis

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant &amp; Co. couldn't&nbsp;help India achieve a world record of most successive T20I wins (13) courtesy of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen's fifties in a run-fest in New Delhi, India.&nbsp;

Being asked to bat first, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, openers Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad took their chances and were lucky enough initially -- being rewarded for their positive intent -- as they put on a 57-run opening stand.&nbsp;

Against the run of play, Ruturaj fell but Ishan continued and hammered the bowlers whereas No. 3 batter Shreyas Iyer took on Tabraiz Shamsi. While Ishan fell for a 48-ball 76, and Iyer followed suit, Pant and Hardik Pandya's cameos (12-ball 31*) took India to 211-4, the highest T20I score at the venue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-can-lead-team-india-in-future-harbhajan-singh-lavishes-praise-on-hardik-pandyas-leadership-486603">'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership</a>

In reply, South Africa started with some good strokes before skipper Temba Bavuma fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Quinton de Kock got a start whereas pinch-hitter Dwaine Pretorius went hard from his end as SA remained in the hunt.&nbsp;

Harshal Patel's change of pace completely outfoxed Pretorius (13-ball 29) as the onus&nbsp;quickly fell on in-form finisher David Miller. He was assisted by Rassie van der Dussen (75 not out), who wasn't at his best, but stood firm with Miller to keep Proteas alive.&nbsp;

Miller (unbeaten 64) got more than he could have asked for from Rassie, who was struggling in the middle, as the latter came to his own and smashed Harshal Patel in the 17th over, accumulating 22 runs (all in boundaries). From thereon, there was no looking back for the Proteas who rode on Miller-Rassie's unbroken 131-run fourth-wicket stand. The Harshal over sealed the deal for the visitors and&nbsp;they also&nbsp;prevented India from achieving a world record with the most successive T20I victories. In addition, Bavuma &amp; Co.&nbsp;recorded their highest successful run-chase ever.

Thus, the trio of Afghanistan, Romania and India&nbsp;enjoyed a&nbsp;12-match&nbsp;winning streak, however, the latter couldn't create history on Thursday evening.

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant & Co.

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant & Co. couldn't help India achieve a world record of most successive T20I wins (13) courtesy of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen's fifties in a run-fest in New Delhi, India. Being asked to bat first, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, openers Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad took their chances and were lucky enough initially -- being rewarded for their positive intent -- as they put on a 57-run opening stand. Against the run of play, Ruturaj fell but Ishan continued and hammered the bowlers whereas No. 3 batter Shreyas Iyer took on Tabraiz Shamsi. While Ishan fell for a 48-ball 76, and Iyer followed suit, Pant and Hardik Pandya's cameos (12-ball 31*) took India to 211-4, the highest T20I score at the venue. ALSO READ | 'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership In reply, South Africa started with some good strokes before skipper Temba Bavuma fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Quinton de Kock got a start whereas pinch-hitter Dwaine Pretorius went hard from his end as SA remained in the hunt. Harshal Patel's change of pace completely outfoxed Pretorius (13-ball 29) as the onus quickly fell on in-form finisher David Miller. He was assisted by Rassie van der Dussen (75 not out), who wasn't at his best, but stood firm with Miller to keep Proteas alive. Miller (unbeaten 64) got more than he could have asked for from Rassie, who was struggling in the middle, as the latter came to his own and smashed Harshal Patel in the 17th over, accumulating 22 runs (all in boundaries). From thereon, there was no looking back for the Proteas who rode on Miller-Rassie's unbroken 131-run fourth-wicket stand. The Harshal over sealed the deal for the visitors and they also prevented India from achieving a world record with the most successive T20I victories. In addition, Bavuma & Co. recorded their highest successful run-chase ever. Thus, the trio of Afghanistan, Romania and India enjoyed a 12-match winning streak, however, the latter couldn't create history on Thursday evening.

1st T20I: David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen prevent India from achieving world record, SA win by 7 wickets

A major fire broke&nbsp;out in a crockery and carpet factory in Indian capital New Delhi. The factory&nbsp;is located in north Delhi's Hamidpur area.&nbsp;

Fire department officials told PTI that information about the fire was received at 6.45 pm.&nbsp;

As many as 23 fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the fire.

As per the Divisional Officer, Delhi Fire Service, SK Dua, the NOC was not taken from the concerned department while establishing the factory.

"23 fire tenders are engaged in the dousing operation. It`s a godown of different things. They have not taken NOC from the fire department nor do they have any system to douse the fire. No casualties have been reported so far," Dua said. He was quoted by ANI.

There was no immediate report of any casualty.

Earlier in the day, a fire broke out near Shah Masjid, Batla House in the Jamia Nagar area of the national capital on Thursday.

More than seven fire tenders rushed to the spot to douse the blaze and a total of 20 people have been rescued so far, according to Delhi Fire Service.

Three more fire incidents were reported on Wednesday.

The first fire incident took place in the Ministry of Home Affairs in the North block post-Tuesday midnight.&nbsp;

In the second incident of the day, at least 10 cars were gutted in a massive fire that broke out at an electric motor parking in Delhi`s Jamia Nagar on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

The third fire incident took place in the electric meter panel in the basement of a building in Delhi`s Lajpat Nagar area, informed the officials on Wednesday.

(With input from agencies)

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A major fire broke out in a crockery and carpet factory in Indian capital New Delhi. The factory is located in north Delhi's Hamidpur area. Fire department officials told PTI that information about the fire was received at 6.

A major fire broke out in a crockery and carpet factory in Indian capital New Delhi. The factory is located in north Delhi's Hamidpur area. Fire department officials told PTI that information about the fire was received at 6.45 pm. As many as 23 fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the fire. As per the Divisional Officer, Delhi Fire Service, SK Dua, the NOC was not taken from the concerned department while establishing the factory. "23 fire tenders are engaged in the dousing operation. It`s a godown of different things. They have not taken NOC from the fire department nor do they have any system to douse the fire. No casualties have been reported so far," Dua said. He was quoted by ANI. There was no immediate report of any casualty. Earlier in the day, a fire broke out near Shah Masjid, Batla House in the Jamia Nagar area of the national capital on Thursday. More than seven fire tenders rushed to the spot to douse the blaze and a total of 20 people have been rescued so far, according to Delhi Fire Service. Three more fire incidents were reported on Wednesday. The first fire incident took place in the Ministry of Home Affairs in the North block post-Tuesday midnight. In the second incident of the day, at least 10 cars were gutted in a massive fire that broke out at an electric motor parking in Delhi`s Jamia Nagar on Wednesday morning. The third fire incident took place in the electric meter panel in the basement of a building in Delhi`s Lajpat Nagar area, informed the officials on Wednesday. (With input from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Huge fire breaks out at Delhi factory, 23 fire tenders present

A major blast at a chemical factory in northern Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur claimed 12 lives and injured 20 after a boiler exploded. The officials have found traces of gunpowder and suspect that it may have caused the explosion.

The incident took place at an industrial facility in Dhaulana, around 60 kilometres from the capital New Delhi, on Saturday around 3 pm. There were around 30 people in the affected area.

Residents of Dhaulana said that the blast was so intense that they felt “earthquake-like tremors”. Some of the factories located in the vicinity were damaged. It took three hours for fire tenders to douse the blaze.

Superintendent of Police of Hapur Deepak Bhuker said a probe has been launched to determine the cause of the incident.

"The factory was given the licence to manufacture electronic items. And now, it is a matter of probe what exactly was going on here. This is a sad incident. Forensic teams have reached here and are collecting samples," District Magistrate of Hapur Medha Roopam was quoted as saying by PTI news agency.

"Our efforts are to ensure that the injured persons get the best medical treatment. Some of them have been referred to Safdarjung Hospital," she added.

Other factories in the area will be inspected, the district magistrate said, adding that action would also be taken against officials concerned if it was found in the probe that the incident took place due to their laxity.

The factory is located adjacent to a CNG pump. Rescue and relief measures were taken up at the site, according to officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kid-complains-of-rashes-in-uttar-pradesh-samples-sent-for-monkeypox-testing-485058" hreflang="en">Kid complains of rashes in Uttar Pradesh; samples sent for monkeypox testing</a>

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives.

"The accident in the chemical factory of Hapur, Uttar Pradesh is heart-wrenching. I express my condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this. The state government is actively involved in providing treatment to the injured and all possible help," Modi tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A major blast at a chemical factory in northern Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur claimed 12 lives and injured 20 after a boiler exploded. The officials have found traces of gunpowder and suspect that it may have caused the explosion.

A major blast at a chemical factory in northern Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur claimed 12 lives and injured 20 after a boiler exploded. The officials have found traces of gunpowder and suspect that it may have caused the explosion. The incident took place at an industrial facility in Dhaulana, around 60 kilometres from the capital New Delhi, on Saturday around 3 pm. There were around 30 people in the affected area. Residents of Dhaulana said that the blast was so intense that they felt “earthquake-like tremors”. Some of the factories located in the vicinity were damaged. It took three hours for fire tenders to douse the blaze. Superintendent of Police of Hapur Deepak Bhuker said a probe has been launched to determine the cause of the incident. "The factory was given the licence to manufacture electronic items. And now, it is a matter of probe what exactly was going on here. This is a sad incident. Forensic teams have reached here and are collecting samples," District Magistrate of Hapur Medha Roopam was quoted as saying by PTI news agency. "Our efforts are to ensure that the injured persons get the best medical treatment. Some of them have been referred to Safdarjung Hospital," she added. Other factories in the area will be inspected, the district magistrate said, adding that action would also be taken against officials concerned if it was found in the probe that the incident took place due to their laxity. The factory is located adjacent to a CNG pump. Rescue and relief measures were taken up at the site, according to officials. Also read | Kid complains of rashes in Uttar Pradesh; samples sent for monkeypox testing President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives. "The accident in the chemical factory of Hapur, Uttar Pradesh is heart-wrenching. I express my condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this. The state government is actively involved in providing treatment to the injured and all possible help," Modi tweeted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: 12 dead, 20 injured after chemical factory blast near capital New Delhi

Key talks between India and Pakistan over Indus water treaty have started in New Delhi on Monday. Pakistan side is led by its Indus Water Commissioner Mehr Ali Shah while India is being represented by its water commissioner AK Pal. The Pakistani delegation had crossed over from Wagah- Attari border on Sunday. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION, Pakistan Indus water commissioner said, "The talks are a part of treaty obligation&nbsp;that we have to fulfill under Indus water treaty. It is a continuous process. So, it should continue, but in a meaningful manner. In this way, we can resolve issues bilaterally. It also depends on the Indian side on how they respond." &nbsp;

This is the second Pakistani delegation to visit India in last few weeks. Earlier this month, a Pakistani delegation visited New Delhi for Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) Regional Anti-Terror Structure (RATS) meet. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-member-pak-delegation-to-reach-india-over-the-weekend-for-indus-water-talks-482704" hreflang="en">3-member Pak delegation to reach India over the weekend for Indus water talks</a>

The two-day talks will see both sides talking about water sharing, advance information on flood waters and other related issues.&nbsp;Earlier this year, in March, Indian delegation had visited Islamabad for the talks. It was led by the then Indus water commissioner PK Saxena. &nbsp;

During the March Indus Water Commission meet, Indian side underscored that all its projects are fully compliant with the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty and provided technical details in support of the position. Both sides also discussed the issue of the Fazilka drain and Pakistan assured that all necessary actions will continue to be taken to ensure the free flow of Fazilka drain into the river Sutlej. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indus water talks between Pakistan and India begins today in New Delhi

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Under the Indus water treaty of 1960, waters of three eastern rivers - Sutlej, Beas&nbsp;and Ravi is allocated to India for unrestricted use while the waters of three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab goes to Pakistan. Additionally, New Delhi has the right to generate hydroelectricity through the run of the river projects on the&nbsp;three western rivers, subject to specific criteria for design. Pakistan can under the treaty raise objections on the design of Indian hydroelectric projects on western rivers. In the past, several issues have been resolved. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Key talks between India and Pakistan over Indus water treaty have started in New Delhi on Monday. Pakistan side is led by its Indus Water Commissioner Mehr Ali Shah while India is being represented by its water commissioner AK Pal.

Key talks between India and Pakistan over Indus water treaty have started in New Delhi on Monday. Pakistan side is led by its Indus Water Commissioner Mehr Ali Shah while India is being represented by its water commissioner AK Pal. The Pakistani delegation had crossed over from Wagah- Attari border on Sunday. Speaking exclusively to WION, Pakistan Indus water commissioner said, "The talks are a part of treaty obligation that we have to fulfill under Indus water treaty. It is a continuous process. So, it should continue, but in a meaningful manner. In this way, we can resolve issues bilaterally. It also depends on the Indian side on how they respond." This is the second Pakistani delegation to visit India in last few weeks. Earlier this month, a Pakistani delegation visited New Delhi for Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) Regional Anti-Terror Structure (RATS) meet. Also Read: 3-member Pak delegation to reach India over the weekend for Indus water talks The two-day talks will see both sides talking about water sharing, advance information on flood waters and other related issues. Earlier this year, in March, Indian delegation had visited Islamabad for the talks. It was led by the then Indus water commissioner PK Saxena. During the March Indus Water Commission meet, Indian side underscored that all its projects are fully compliant with the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty and provided technical details in support of the position. Both sides also discussed the issue of the Fazilka drain and Pakistan assured that all necessary actions will continue to be taken to ensure the free flow of Fazilka drain into the river Sutlej. Watch: Indus water talks between Pakistan and India begins today in New Delhi × Under the Indus water treaty of 1960, waters of three eastern rivers - Sutlej, Beas and Ravi is allocated to India for unrestricted use while the waters of three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab goes to Pakistan. Additionally, New Delhi has the right to generate hydroelectricity through the run of the river projects on the three western rivers, subject to specific criteria for design. Pakistan can under the treaty raise objections on the design of Indian hydroelectric projects on western rivers. In the past, several issues have been resolved. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indus water talks between India, Pakistan begin in New Delhi

A fire broke out at a plastic factory in Narela area in north Delhi on Saturday, a fire department official said.

The official said that they received a call about the fire incident at 9.10 p.m. in the factory at H 1373, DSIDC, Narela, in north Delhi after which as many as 20 fire tenders were immediately pressed into the service.

As the firemen reached the spot, they found that the blaze was of medium category following which 5 more fire engines were deployed.

Delhi Fire Service chief Atul Garg confirmed to IANS that there have been no injuries or casualties in the incident. However, there was certainly a massive loss of property.

The cause of fire is yet to be ascertained.

Massive flames engulfed the whole building while thick plumes of smoke was billowing out of the top floor.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police (outer north) Brijendra Kumar Yadav said that the factory is owned by one Rahul Jain and at the time of incident, the factory was closed.

"In this factory, tarpaulin is manufactured for which plastic dana is used a raw material," the DCP said, adding no one is reported to have been trapped inside.

As per latest reports, 25 fire tenders are at the spot and one `sky lift` fire tender has also reached at 12.05 a.m.

"Fire is now under control," DCP Yadav added.

Notably, the incident comes just a day after 27 people were charred to death in a major fire incident at Delhi`s Mundka.

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A fire broke out at a plastic factory in Narela area in north Delhi on Saturday, a fire department official said. The official said that they received a call about the fire incident at 9.

A fire broke out at a plastic factory in Narela area in north Delhi on Saturday, a fire department official said. The official said that they received a call about the fire incident at 9.10 p.m. in the factory at H 1373, DSIDC, Narela, in north Delhi after which as many as 20 fire tenders were immediately pressed into the service. As the firemen reached the spot, they found that the blaze was of medium category following which 5 more fire engines were deployed. Delhi Fire Service chief Atul Garg confirmed to IANS that there have been no injuries or casualties in the incident. However, there was certainly a massive loss of property. The cause of fire is yet to be ascertained. Massive flames engulfed the whole building while thick plumes of smoke was billowing out of the top floor. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police (outer north) Brijendra Kumar Yadav said that the factory is owned by one Rahul Jain and at the time of incident, the factory was closed. "In this factory, tarpaulin is manufactured for which plastic dana is used a raw material," the DCP said, adding no one is reported to have been trapped inside. As per latest reports, 25 fire tenders are at the spot and one `sky lift` fire tender has also reached at 12.05 a.m. "Fire is now under control," DCP Yadav added. Notably, the incident comes just a day after 27 people were charred to death in a major fire incident at Delhi`s Mundka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fire guts tarpaulin manufacturing factory in Delhi's Narela, no injuries

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany. In response to question of WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Flasbarth said, "All our partners, for sure including India can trust that will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation.".&nbsp;

State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth was on a 2-day India visit from Thursday to Friday (April 21-22). During the visit he called on Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and held talks with officials from India's environment, power, renewable and coal ministry. His visit comes ahead of PM Modi's visit to Germany in the first week of May.

WION: How has been your India visit?

Jochen Flasbarth: I am not starting at zero. Lot of collaboration and contact with my Indian counterpart in the past. Therefore, it was very easy. we are very frank and very focused on solution. On energy, climate, sustainable development, (we) had fruitful discussion.&nbsp;

WION: Your visit precedes the visit of PM Modi to Germany next week. How significant is your visit in the light of that?

Jochen Flasbarth: I don't want to overestimate my visit to Delhi but to get good results we need to talk between the ministries, different areas of common interest and politics and Ofcourse green transition, climate and energy transition but also sustainable development, areas I know are close to your prime minister and same for German Chancellor and I hope, my talks with colleagues will be helpful.

WION: How will two countries engage, now that a new government is in Germany?. PM Modi and Ms Merkel were close. Can you talk a little bit on how new German establishment will have the talks?&nbsp;

Jochen Flasbarth: All our partners, for sure including India can trust that we will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation. I think, there was a very driven govt in Germany in the past with regard to our partners and it will be even more in the case of new govt. It is absolute internationally committed and it's multilateral and it knows where our friends and partners are sitting, and one place is New Delhi.

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany.

State Secretary of the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth has said that Berlin sees a friend in New Delhi and is very hopeful about upcoming visit of PM Modi to Germany. In response to question of WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Flasbarth said, "All our partners, for sure including India can trust that will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation.". State Secretary Jochen Flasbarth was on a 2-day India visit from Thursday to Friday (April 21-22). During the visit he called on Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla and held talks with officials from India's environment, power, renewable and coal ministry. His visit comes ahead of PM Modi's visit to Germany in the first week of May. WION: How has been your India visit? Jochen Flasbarth: I am not starting at zero. Lot of collaboration and contact with my Indian counterpart in the past. Therefore, it was very easy. we are very frank and very focused on solution. On energy, climate, sustainable development, (we) had fruitful discussion. WION: Your visit precedes the visit of PM Modi to Germany next week. How significant is your visit in the light of that? Jochen Flasbarth: I don't want to overestimate my visit to Delhi but to get good results we need to talk between the ministries, different areas of common interest and politics and Ofcourse green transition, climate and energy transition but also sustainable development, areas I know are close to your prime minister and same for German Chancellor and I hope, my talks with colleagues will be helpful. WION: How will two countries engage, now that a new government is in Germany?. PM Modi and Ms Merkel were close. Can you talk a little bit on how new German establishment will have the talks? Jochen Flasbarth: All our partners, for sure including India can trust that we will continue with a very intense bilateral and multilateral cooperation. I think, there was a very driven govt in Germany in the past with regard to our partners and it will be even more in the case of new govt. It is absolute internationally committed and it's multilateral and it knows where our friends and partners are sitting, and one place is New Delhi.

Berlin sees a friend in Delhi, says German government official Flasbarth 

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit.

This is the first visit of Mexico's FM to India&nbsp;during which he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday evening.

A release from India's Ministry Of External Affairs said, "Two Ministers will undertake a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and will also discuss international issues of mutual interest.”

In Delhi, the FM will be meeting Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath.

ISRO and the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) signed a pact in October 2014 on ‘Space Cooperation for Peaceful Purposes’.

Three officials from AEM participated in the training on “Forest Fire Monitoring through Space Technologies” at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, in August 2019 under the pact.

Pharma and healthcare, including the joint production of vaccines, is another key issue of bilateral cooperation. Several Indian pharma companies have a presence present in the North American country.

The bilateral trade between the two countries had crossed the $10 billion mark in 2021 despite the pandemic.

Both countries are also non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council with regular consultations between the two on various issues at the high table.

Recently, Mexico and France co-sponsored resolution at the United Nations General Assembly on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution was adopted by the assembly.&nbsp;

Jaishankar had visited Mexico last year and participated in the commemorative event of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence. PM Modi had visited the country in 2016.

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit.

Eying for close cooperation in space and pharma sectors, Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón will reach India on Wednesday for a three-day India visit. This is the first visit of Mexico's FM to India during which he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday evening. A release from India's Ministry Of External Affairs said, "Two Ministers will undertake a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and will also discuss international issues of mutual interest.” In Delhi, the FM will be meeting Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath. ISRO and the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) signed a pact in October 2014 on ‘Space Cooperation for Peaceful Purposes’. Three officials from AEM participated in the training on “Forest Fire Monitoring through Space Technologies” at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, in August 2019 under the pact. Pharma and healthcare, including the joint production of vaccines, is another key issue of bilateral cooperation. Several Indian pharma companies have a presence present in the North American country. The bilateral trade between the two countries had crossed the $10 billion mark in 2021 despite the pandemic. Both countries are also non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council with regular consultations between the two on various issues at the high table. Recently, Mexico and France co-sponsored resolution at the United Nations General Assembly on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution was adopted by the assembly. Jaishankar had visited Mexico last year and participated in the commemorative event of the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican Independence. PM Modi had visited the country in 2016.

Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday

After finishing his surprise visit to Afghanistan, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi landed in India’s capital New Delhi&nbsp;on Thursday night.

According to sources, the Chinese foreign minister is likely to meet India's National Security Advisor&nbsp; Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar tomorrow (Friday).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrives in India. He is likely to meet NSA Ajit Doval and EAM Dr S Jaishankar tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/hU2G52CCa5">pic.twitter.com/hU2G52CCa5</a>
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The visit comes in the backdrop of tense border relations that engulfed in 2020 at the northern Galwan Valley, where a tussle between Chinese and Indian troops resulted in 20 casualties from the Indian Army side.

While several reports indicated that Chine lost around 42 soldiers in the clash.

The minister’s visit comes just a day after India called out Wang Yi for making references about Kashmir in his opening speech at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Islamabad.

"On Kashmir, we have heard again today the calls of many of our Islamic friends. And China shares the same hope," he had said.

Earlier in the day, he arrived in Kabul, a week before Beijing hosts a meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours to see how they can help the country following its takeover by the hardline Islamist group.

"Chinese Foreign Minister arrives in Kabul for talks with Islamic Emirate leaders," said&nbsp;Ahmad Yasir, a top Taliban government official.

According to a Xinhua report on Thursday, minister Wang met with Pakistani Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday where the two discussed Afghanistan among a range of issues.

On the Afghanistan issue, Wang called for wisdom of the East to promote dialogue and communication to solve it, instead of resorting to pressure or sanctions, the state-media reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

After finishing his surprise visit to Afghanistan, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi landed in India’s capital New Delhi on Thursday night. According to sources, the Chinese foreign minister is likely to meet India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar tomorrow (Friday).

After finishing his surprise visit to Afghanistan, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi landed in India’s capital New Delhi on Thursday night. According to sources, the Chinese foreign minister is likely to meet India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar tomorrow (Friday). #WATCH | Delhi: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrives in India. He is likely to meet NSA Ajit Doval and EAM Dr S Jaishankar tomorrow pic.twitter.com/hU2G52CCa5 — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2022 × The visit comes in the backdrop of tense border relations that engulfed in 2020 at the northern Galwan Valley, where a tussle between Chinese and Indian troops resulted in 20 casualties from the Indian Army side. While several reports indicated that Chine lost around 42 soldiers in the clash. The minister’s visit comes just a day after India called out Wang Yi for making references about Kashmir in his opening speech at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Islamabad. "On Kashmir, we have heard again today the calls of many of our Islamic friends. And China shares the same hope," he had said. Earlier in the day, he arrived in Kabul, a week before Beijing hosts a meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours to see how they can help the country following its takeover by the hardline Islamist group. "Chinese Foreign Minister arrives in Kabul for talks with Islamic Emirate leaders," said Ahmad Yasir, a top Taliban government official. According to a Xinhua report on Thursday, minister Wang met with Pakistani Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday where the two discussed Afghanistan among a range of issues. On the Afghanistan issue, Wang called for wisdom of the East to promote dialogue and communication to solve it, instead of resorting to pressure or sanctions, the state-media reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese foreign minister lands in New Delhi, likely to meet Doval, Jaishankar

In a diplomatic earthquake, German Navy chief VAdm Kay-Achim Schönbach stepped down on Saturday after his comments in New Delhi which called for rapprochement with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine can't become a NATO member.

In a diplomatic earthquake, German Navy chief VAdm Kay-Achim Schönbach stepped down on Saturday after his comments in New Delhi which called for rapprochement with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine can't become a NATO member. His comments went against the present narrative coming from Europe amid the deteriorating situation in Eastern Europe and buildup by Russian troops at the border with Ukraine. Speaking at think tank IDSA on Friday, he said, "Does Russia really wants small and tiny strip of Ukraine soil, integrate the country. No, this is nonsense. Putin is probably putting pressure because he knows he can do it, and he splits EU opinion. What he really wants is respect. " Ahead of stepping down, he called his comments in Delhi a "mistake". Meanwhile, the Twitter bio of the German Navy chief official handle has been updated to "currently vacant" & the picture of VAdm Kay-Achim Schönbach has been removed. Unbedacht, fehleingeschätzt in der Situation, hätte ich das so nicht tun dürfen. Da gibt es nichts zu deuteln, das war ein klarer Fehler. @BMVg_Bundeswehr #deutschemarine https://t.co/rJhoKqGYUy — chiefdeunavy (@chiefdeunavy) January 22, 2022 × The German Defence Ministry was quick to disown the comments. German newspaper BILD, quoting the German Defence Ministry said, "In terms of content and choice of words, the statements in no way correspond to the position of the Defense ministry. Admiral Schönbach is given the opportunity to make a statement to the Inspector General" Unbedacht, fehleingeschätzt in der Situation, hätte ich das so nicht tun dürfen. Da gibt es nichts zu deuteln, das war ein klarer Fehler. @BMVg_Bundeswehr #deutschemarine https://t.co/rJhoKqGYUy — chiefdeunavy (@chiefdeunavy) January 22, 2022 × And not just in Berlin, the fallout off comments were seen on Ukraine's capital Kyiv. Ukraine's foreign ministry summoned the German envoy to the country over Navy Chief's remarks. In his Delhi comments, the German Navy chief explained that good ties are needed with Russia to rein in China and Crimea being lost now. He explained, "Even we India, Germany we need Russia, We need Russia against China...Having this big country, even if it's not a democracy, as a bilateral partner, giving them a chance. It's easy and keeps Russia away from China because China needs resources of Russia". Russia doesn't want NATO to reach its borders, with countries like Ukraine joining it. It wants "security guarantees" from the west and NATO that Ukraine doesn't join the security block. The number of talks this month between Russia and the US hasn't yielded any results. The comments in Delhi come even as the German navy chief visit was aimed to show Berlin's increased engagement in the Indo Pacific but ended up with his resignation. The visit of the German Navy chief also coincides with the visit of German frigate “Bayern” making a port call in Mumbai, as part of its seven-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

German Navy chief steps down after his New Delhi comments on Putin, Ukraine

Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected.&nbsp;

During his virtual address on Sunday (January 9), he urged people to not panic and follow the necessary measures, such as wearing face masks, regular sanitisation, social distancing, etc.&nbsp;

He expressed his concerns over the rising Covid cases in the Indian capital and said that he is constantly monitoring the situation and also said that on Sunday the city is likely to report 22,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-greets-indian-diaspora-on-pravasi-bharatiya-diwas-know-its-history-and-significance-443304">PM Narendra Modi greets Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Know its history and significance</a>

"Rising COVID-19 cases is a matter of concern but there is no need to panic. Very few people are getting hospitalised. Wearing mask is very important. There will be no lockdown if you continue to wear mask. There is no plan to impose lockdown as of now," Kejriwal said in a virtual press conference.

The CM said that he along with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and the Centre are keeping a close eye on the Covid situation. "Our attempt is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected," Kejriwal said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covids-rise-continues-india-records-159632-fresh-cases-327-deaths-in-24-hours-443293">Covid’s rise continues: India records 1,59,632 fresh cases, 327 deaths in 24 hours &nbsp;</a>

Kejriwal's health

Kejriwal also informed that he has recovered from the Covid infection and is now at common people's service. "After recovering from Corona, I am back at your service," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

New Delhi CM, who is a member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor had informed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, he had said that he has mild symptoms and is isolated at home.

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Addressing an important press conference on COVID-19 situation in Delhi | LIVE <a href="https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM">https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1480064578050355201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected.

Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected. During his virtual address on Sunday (January 9), he urged people to not panic and follow the necessary measures, such as wearing face masks, regular sanitisation, social distancing, etc. He expressed his concerns over the rising Covid cases in the Indian capital and said that he is constantly monitoring the situation and also said that on Sunday the city is likely to report 22,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours. ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi greets Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Know its history and significance "Rising COVID-19 cases is a matter of concern but there is no need to panic. Very few people are getting hospitalised. Wearing mask is very important. There will be no lockdown if you continue to wear mask. There is no plan to impose lockdown as of now," Kejriwal said in a virtual press conference. The CM said that he along with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and the Centre are keeping a close eye on the Covid situation. "Our attempt is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected," Kejriwal said. ALSO READ | Covid’s rise continues: India records 1,59,632 fresh cases, 327 deaths in 24 hours Kejriwal's health Kejriwal also informed that he has recovered from the Covid infection and is now at common people's service. "After recovering from Corona, I am back at your service," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. New Delhi CM, who is a member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor had informed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, he had said that he has mild symptoms and is isolated at home. Addressing an important press conference on COVID-19 situation in Delhi | LIVE https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 9, 2022 ×

New Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says 'no plan to impose lockdown' in Indian capital, urges people to not panic

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases. Moreover, the positivity rate in the city moved up to 0.68 per cent which is the highest since the last six months.&nbsp;

On June 2, the positivity rate was 0.78 per cent. The total cases in Delhi increased to 14,43,683 with a cumulative positivity rate of 4.45 per cent. Active cases are 1,289 in the city. The total discharges from this virus stood at 14,17,288 including 144 fresh discharges.&nbsp;

However, the city reported one new fatality from this virus thereby increasing the death toll to 25106. Moreover, the case fatality rate is at 1.74 per cent. Further, 32,116 beneficiaries were vaccinated in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative COVID-19 vaccinations administered in the city are 2,55,89,731.&nbsp;

Moreover, to prevent the spread of the virus, there are as many as 310 total Containment Zones as on date.As Delhi continues to witness a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, a night curfew has been imposed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government in the national capital from Monday.The curfew will be imposed from 11 pm to 5 am

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases.

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases. Moreover, the positivity rate in the city moved up to 0.68 per cent which is the highest since the last six months. On June 2, the positivity rate was 0.78 per cent. The total cases in Delhi increased to 14,43,683 with a cumulative positivity rate of 4.45 per cent. Active cases are 1,289 in the city. The total discharges from this virus stood at 14,17,288 including 144 fresh discharges. However, the city reported one new fatality from this virus thereby increasing the death toll to 25106. Moreover, the case fatality rate is at 1.74 per cent. Further, 32,116 beneficiaries were vaccinated in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative COVID-19 vaccinations administered in the city are 2,55,89,731. Moreover, to prevent the spread of the virus, there are as many as 310 total Containment Zones as on date.As Delhi continues to witness a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, a night curfew has been imposed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government in the national capital from Monday.The curfew will be imposed from 11 pm to 5 am

Delhi reports 331 new COVID-19 cases, highest single day spike in last 6 months

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-more-women-than-men-for-the-first-time-finds-government-survey-431969" hreflang="en">India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey</a>

The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. &nbsp;

In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reopen-schools-offices-on-nov-29-as-air-quality-improves-marginally-431699" hreflang="en">Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally</a>

On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. Also Read: India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." Also Read: Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. "Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement.

Gopal Rai also said that only CNG and electric vehicles, barring those engaged in essential services, will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 27.

The ban on the entry of vehicles operating on other fuels will remain till December 3, he said.

Rai urged government staff to use public transport.

"We hired private CNG buses recently. We have decided to use them to ferry employees from government residential colonies such as Gulabi Bagh and Nimri Colony," he said.

The government will also start a shuttle bus service from the Delhi Secretariat to ITO and Indraprastha metro stations for its employees.

"The air quality has improved over the last three days. The city's AQI is similar to pre-Diwali days," he said.

Schools and other institutes have been shut since November 15 due to ‘severe’ air pollution levels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/red-dots-over-delhi-nasa-shares-satellite-images-of-dangerous-pollution-levels-in-indian-capital-430548">Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital</a>

The Directorate of Education had earlier announced that schools, colleges as well as government offices will remain closed till further orders, adding that online education will continue in the meantime.

After nearly 19 months of closure due to the pandemic, Delhi schools reopened for all classes from November 1. But the city government on November 13 ordered the closure of all educational institutions and announced several others measures to combat air pollution and minimise its health effects.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-in-very-poor-category-says-pollution-board-430816">Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category, says pollution board</a>

The ban on construction and demolition activities was lifted on Monday in view of an improvement in the air quality and inconvenience caused to workers.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Delhi's air quality slipped into the "very poor" category on Wednesday as low temperatures and slow surface winds allowed the accumulation of pollutants.

Strong winds on Sunday and Monday had led to an improvement in the air quality.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said slow local surface winds will reduce dispersion of pollutants over the next three days, leading to deterioration in air quality.

A slight improvement is likely from November 27 with an increase in local surface wind speed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement.

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement. Gopal Rai also said that only CNG and electric vehicles, barring those engaged in essential services, will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 27. The ban on the entry of vehicles operating on other fuels will remain till December 3, he said. Rai urged government staff to use public transport. "We hired private CNG buses recently. We have decided to use them to ferry employees from government residential colonies such as Gulabi Bagh and Nimri Colony," he said. The government will also start a shuttle bus service from the Delhi Secretariat to ITO and Indraprastha metro stations for its employees. "The air quality has improved over the last three days. The city's AQI is similar to pre-Diwali days," he said. Schools and other institutes have been shut since November 15 due to ‘severe’ air pollution levels. Also read | Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital The Directorate of Education had earlier announced that schools, colleges as well as government offices will remain closed till further orders, adding that online education will continue in the meantime. After nearly 19 months of closure due to the pandemic, Delhi schools reopened for all classes from November 1. But the city government on November 13 ordered the closure of all educational institutions and announced several others measures to combat air pollution and minimise its health effects. Also read | Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category, says pollution board The ban on construction and demolition activities was lifted on Monday in view of an improvement in the air quality and inconvenience caused to workers. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality slipped into the "very poor" category on Wednesday as low temperatures and slow surface winds allowed the accumulation of pollutants. Strong winds on Sunday and Monday had led to an improvement in the air quality. The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said slow local surface winds will reduce dispersion of pollutants over the next three days, leading to deterioration in air quality. A slight improvement is likely from November 27 with an increase in local surface wind speed. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally

Nasa&nbsp;has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution.&nbsp;

Delhi has been coping with&nbsp;air pollution since the start of November month this year. In previous years also, the capital region of India faced similar consequences of stubble burning. The Indian capital is consistently ranked the world's worst capital for air quality.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-predicts-extremely-heavy-rains-for-chennai-adjoining-districts-430228">IMD predicts extremely heavy rains for Chennai, adjoining districts</a>

Last week, the levels of PM2.5 pollutants reached more than 30 times the maximum daily limit recommended by the global health governing body, World Health Organization (WHO). PM2.5 pollutants are the microparticles most harmful to human health and can enter the bloodstream through the lungs.&nbsp;

Now, the imagery Nasa&nbsp;has published, which is dated November 11, shows large plumes of smoke and heightened fire activity as detected by the satellites in northwestern India as farmers burn off excess paddy straw after the rice harvest.&nbsp;

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Smoke from crop fires in northern India blanketed Delhi and contributed to soaring levels of air pollution. <a href="https://t.co/Pe30imj6xV">https://t.co/Pe30imj6xV</a> <a href="https://t.co/RyNEmVcbXx">pic.twitter.com/RyNEmVcbXx</a>
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(Image source:&nbsp;earthobservatory.nasa.gov)

"On November 11, 2021, the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi NPP satellite acquired this natural-color image of a river of smoke streaming from fires in Punjab and Haryana toward Delhi, one of India's most populous cities," Nasa&nbsp;said in its report.

"Looking at the size of the plume on November 11 and the population density in this area, I would say that a conservative estimate is that at least 22 million people were affected by smoke on this one day," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at Nasa's Marshall Space Flight Center.

Authorities in the Indian capital took necessary steps to curb the pollution levels as they ordered six of the 11 coal power plants in Delhi's vicinity to close down until further notice.&nbsp;

Schools have also been shut indefinitely so that children do not come in contact with harmful smoke. The authorities have barred trucks except those carrying essential goods from entering the capital until next week and told civil servants to work from home.&nbsp;

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Nasa has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution.

Nasa has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution. Delhi has been coping with air pollution since the start of November month this year. In previous years also, the capital region of India faced similar consequences of stubble burning. The Indian capital is consistently ranked the world's worst capital for air quality. ALSO READ | IMD predicts extremely heavy rains for Chennai, adjoining districts Last week, the levels of PM2.5 pollutants reached more than 30 times the maximum daily limit recommended by the global health governing body, World Health Organization (WHO). PM2.5 pollutants are the microparticles most harmful to human health and can enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Now, the imagery Nasa has published, which is dated November 11, shows large plumes of smoke and heightened fire activity as detected by the satellites in northwestern India as farmers burn off excess paddy straw after the rice harvest. Smoke from crop fires in northern India blanketed Delhi and contributed to soaring levels of air pollution. https://t.co/Pe30imj6xV pic.twitter.com/RyNEmVcbXx — NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) November 18, 2021 × (Image source: earthobservatory.nasa.gov) "On November 11, 2021, the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi NPP satellite acquired this natural-color image of a river of smoke streaming from fires in Punjab and Haryana toward Delhi, one of India's most populous cities," Nasa said in its report. "Looking at the size of the plume on November 11 and the population density in this area, I would say that a conservative estimate is that at least 22 million people were affected by smoke on this one day," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at Nasa's Marshall Space Flight Center. Authorities in the Indian capital took necessary steps to curb the pollution levels as they ordered six of the 11 coal power plants in Delhi's vicinity to close down until further notice. Schools have also been shut indefinitely so that children do not come in contact with harmful smoke. The authorities have barred trucks except those carrying essential goods from entering the capital until next week and told civil servants to work from home. ×

Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India. However, he stressed that the lockdown was possible only when it is implemented in Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR)

The NCR comes under the jurisdiction of various states around Delhi.

"We've told Supreme Court that we're ready for a lockdown...possible only when there's lockdown in NCR regions too. We're ready to take all measures with Centre, States; will follow whatever SC directs. Joint-action plan is needed," said Gopal Rai. He was quoted by ANI.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central government to call for an "emergency meeting" on November 16 with Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh and sought an action plan to curb the air pollution in Delhi-NCR.

A Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant concluded that the major culprits of air pollution in the national capital are construction activities, industries, power plants, and vehicular transportation apart from stubble burning in some areas.

Posting the matter for hearing on November 17, the top court asked Haryana and Punjab governments to persuade the farmers to stop the stubble burning for a week. Following the Supreme Court`s suggestion, schools in Delhi and Haryana have been closed and all construction activities have also been suspended.

Delhi`s air quality on Monday witnessed marginal improvement as the air quality in the capital city reached the lower end of `very poor` category with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 318 (overall), according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India.

Delhi state government on Monday, said that it was ready for a lockdown to tackle air pollution in the city. Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the government had conveyed this to the Supreme Court of India. However, he stressed that the lockdown was possible only when it is implemented in Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) The NCR comes under the jurisdiction of various states around Delhi. "We've told Supreme Court that we're ready for a lockdown...possible only when there's lockdown in NCR regions too. We're ready to take all measures with Centre, States; will follow whatever SC directs. Joint-action plan is needed," said Gopal Rai. He was quoted by ANI. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central government to call for an "emergency meeting" on November 16 with Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh and sought an action plan to curb the air pollution in Delhi-NCR. A Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant concluded that the major culprits of air pollution in the national capital are construction activities, industries, power plants, and vehicular transportation apart from stubble burning in some areas. Posting the matter for hearing on November 17, the top court asked Haryana and Punjab governments to persuade the farmers to stop the stubble burning for a week. Following the Supreme Court`s suggestion, schools in Delhi and Haryana have been closed and all construction activities have also been suspended. Delhi`s air quality on Monday witnessed marginal improvement as the air quality in the capital city reached the lower end of `very poor` category with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 318 (overall), according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research. (With inputs from agencies)

Ready for lockdown to curb air pollution, Delhi govt tells Supreme Court

Calling the situation 'very serious', the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Saturday asked the central government to come up with an emergency plan to tackle toxic air quality and dangerous smog conditions in the capital. &nbsp;

The Central Pollution Control Board of the country on Friday ordered states and local bodies to be in "complete readiness" for emergency measures to tackle worsening smog conditions in New Delhi. &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>

NV Ramana, CJI, said, "We have been forced to wear masks at home also, the situation is very serious." The top judge sought clarity on the measures initiated by the government so far. &nbsp;

Ramana said, "Delhi air quality will become severe and increase in surface wind may help .. another two to three days, it will increase further. Take an emergency decision." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-ndrf-personnel-rescue-nearly-500-persons-from-in-and-around-chennai-rescue-ops-continue-428862" hreflang="en">Watch: NDRF personnel rescue nearly 500 persons from in and around Chennai, rescue ops continue</a>

As per the Central Pollution Control Board data on Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in and around capital city hit 470 to 490 on a scale of 500. The smog has reduced visibility greatly. &nbsp;

Ramana added the government should consider a two-day lockdown to protect citizens from the rising toxicity and inform the court on Monday about the emergency steps taken to improve air quality. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Calling the situation 'very serious', the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Saturday asked the central government to come up with an emergency plan to tackle toxic air quality and dangerous smog conditions in the capital.

Calling the situation 'very serious', the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Saturday asked the central government to come up with an emergency plan to tackle toxic air quality and dangerous smog conditions in the capital. The Central Pollution Control Board of the country on Friday ordered states and local bodies to be in "complete readiness" for emergency measures to tackle worsening smog conditions in New Delhi. Also Read: India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term NV Ramana, CJI, said, "We have been forced to wear masks at home also, the situation is very serious." The top judge sought clarity on the measures initiated by the government so far. Ramana said, "Delhi air quality will become severe and increase in surface wind may help .. another two to three days, it will increase further. Take an emergency decision." Also Read | Watch: NDRF personnel rescue nearly 500 persons from in and around Chennai, rescue ops continue As per the Central Pollution Control Board data on Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in and around capital city hit 470 to 490 on a scale of 500. The smog has reduced visibility greatly. Ramana added the government should consider a two-day lockdown to protect citizens from the rising toxicity and inform the court on Monday about the emergency steps taken to improve air quality. (With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana

Residents of Delhi are having to take precaution to shield themselves from extreme air pollution. Many students stayed at home rather than returning to schools.

New Delhi has the worst air quality of any capital city but even by its standards the past few days have been extraordinarily bad.

Although authorities eased restrictions on schools imposed when the COVID-19 pandemic first struck India in March last year, many parents decided against sending their children back.

"The pollution in Delhi is hazardous. We as parents are afraid of sending our children to school," parent Kamlesh Sharma wrote on Twitter.

For air to be deemed safe, the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has a scale of 500, should be below 50. In New Delhi on Monday evening it was 392, well into hazardous territory. That was a marginal improvement on the 451 registered last week as moderate winds helped disperse some of the pollution.

While some schools had resumed classes for higher grades, pupils aged 14 and below were allowed back for the first time on Monday as part of a staggered re-opening.

But many schools reported attendance below 40% on the first day back due to parents fears over the hazardous air and the coronavirus risks.

"After COVID, pollution has emerged a major threat for public health particularly for children and senior citizens," Ashok Agarwal, national president, All India Parents Association, said, expressing frustration with the lack of enforcement and political will to improve Delhi's air.

Many supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party opposed a blanket ban on fire-crackers while blaming the opposition-ruled state governments of Delhi and Punjab for worsening pollution.

Environmentalists said both federal and state governments were reluctant to take tough steps because they feared loss of support among their voters.

In a letter to the federal and state authorities, the Central Pollution Control Board Chairman Tanmay Kumar regretted that they were not "taking sufficient measures to control pollution" and asked them to curb all air polluting activities.

Exposure to pollution was causing more harm than the use of tobacco or of smoking, Randeep Guleria, director, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, told India Today TV channel.

"If you have higher levels of air pollution then the chances of having more severe COVID and dying from it goes up," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Residents of Delhi are having to take precaution to shield themselves from extreme air pollution. Many students stayed at home rather than returning to schools. New Delhi has the worst air quality of any capital city but even by its standards the past few days have been extraordinarily bad.

Residents of Delhi are having to take precaution to shield themselves from extreme air pollution. Many students stayed at home rather than returning to schools. New Delhi has the worst air quality of any capital city but even by its standards the past few days have been extraordinarily bad. Although authorities eased restrictions on schools imposed when the COVID-19 pandemic first struck India in March last year, many parents decided against sending their children back. "The pollution in Delhi is hazardous. We as parents are afraid of sending our children to school," parent Kamlesh Sharma wrote on Twitter. For air to be deemed safe, the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has a scale of 500, should be below 50. In New Delhi on Monday evening it was 392, well into hazardous territory. That was a marginal improvement on the 451 registered last week as moderate winds helped disperse some of the pollution. While some schools had resumed classes for higher grades, pupils aged 14 and below were allowed back for the first time on Monday as part of a staggered re-opening. But many schools reported attendance below 40% on the first day back due to parents fears over the hazardous air and the coronavirus risks. "After COVID, pollution has emerged a major threat for public health particularly for children and senior citizens," Ashok Agarwal, national president, All India Parents Association, said, expressing frustration with the lack of enforcement and political will to improve Delhi's air. Many supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party opposed a blanket ban on fire-crackers while blaming the opposition-ruled state governments of Delhi and Punjab for worsening pollution. Environmentalists said both federal and state governments were reluctant to take tough steps because they feared loss of support among their voters. In a letter to the federal and state authorities, the Central Pollution Control Board Chairman Tanmay Kumar regretted that they were not "taking sufficient measures to control pollution" and asked them to curb all air polluting activities. Exposure to pollution was causing more harm than the use of tobacco or of smoking, Randeep Guleria, director, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, told India Today TV channel. "If you have higher levels of air pollution then the chances of having more severe COVID and dying from it goes up," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

New Delhi reels under pollution, students stay home

Delhi government employees and teachers not having at least one shot of COVID-19 vaccine will not be allowed to attend their offices and workplaces from October 16, according to a Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order on Friday.

All such unvaccinated Delhi government employees, including teachers and frontline workers, will be treated as "on leave" till they get the jab, the order stated.

The heads of departments concerned will verify vaccinated employees through Aarogya Setu app or vaccination certificate, it stated.

The order, issued by Delhi Chief Secretary and DDMA executive committee chairperson Vijay Dev, stated that the central government "may consider issuing similar directions in respect of its employees working in Delhi."

The DDMA, in its meeting on September 29, had decided to ensure 100 per cent vaccination of all government employees, frontline workers, healthcare workers as well as teachers and other staff members in schools/colleges.

These categories of persons have frequent interaction with the general public and vulnerable section of the society, stated the order.

All government employees working in departments/autonomous bodies/ PSUs/local bodies/educational institutions under Government of NCT of Delhi, including frontline workers, healthcare workers as well as teachers and other staff working in schools/colleges should get vaccinated (at least first dose) by October 15, said the order.

"The aforesaid government employees/ frontline workers/healthcare workers / teachers and other staff working in schools abd colleges, who do not get vaccinated (at least first dose) by October 15 shall not be allowed to attend their respective offices/ health care institutions/ educational institutions with effect from October 16, till they have obtained the first dose vaccination," it said.

Delhi government employees and teachers not having at least one shot of COVID-19 vaccine will not be allowed to attend their offices and workplaces from October 16, according to a Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order on Friday.

Delhi government employees and teachers not having at least one shot of COVID-19 vaccine will not be allowed to attend their offices and workplaces from October 16, according to a Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order on Friday. All such unvaccinated Delhi government employees, including teachers and frontline workers, will be treated as "on leave" till they get the jab, the order stated. The heads of departments concerned will verify vaccinated employees through Aarogya Setu app or vaccination certificate, it stated. The order, issued by Delhi Chief Secretary and DDMA executive committee chairperson Vijay Dev, stated that the central government "may consider issuing similar directions in respect of its employees working in Delhi." The DDMA, in its meeting on September 29, had decided to ensure 100 per cent vaccination of all government employees, frontline workers, healthcare workers as well as teachers and other staff members in schools/colleges. These categories of persons have frequent interaction with the general public and vulnerable section of the society, stated the order. All government employees working in departments/autonomous bodies/ PSUs/local bodies/educational institutions under Government of NCT of Delhi, including frontline workers, healthcare workers as well as teachers and other staff working in schools/colleges should get vaccinated (at least first dose) by October 15, said the order. "The aforesaid government employees/ frontline workers/healthcare workers / teachers and other staff working in schools abd colleges, who do not get vaccinated (at least first dose) by October 15 shall not be allowed to attend their respective offices/ health care institutions/ educational institutions with effect from October 16, till they have obtained the first dose vaccination," it said.

Unvaccinated Delhi govt employees will not be allowed to attend office from October 16: DDMA

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday.

Jitender Gogi, the now-dead gangster, was being produced in court. Two out of three attackers were dressed as lawyers. All of them were killed by the police in retaliatory fire. As per media reports, three other people have been injured which includes a woman lawyer. The incident at a court in Delhi's Rohini area was partially caught on camera.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Visuals of the shootout at Delhi's Rohini court today 
 
As per Delhi Police, assailants opened fire at gangster Jitender Mann 'Gogi', who has died. Three attackers have also been shot dead by police. <a href="https://t.co/dYgRjQGW7J">pic.twitter.com/dYgRjQGW7J</a>
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The gangster Jitender Gogi was killed by the attackers who reportedly belonged to rival 'Tillu' gang. News agency IANS has quoted sources as saying that the incident took place in court no 207.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-salon-ordered-to-pay-rs-20-million-as-damages-for-a-traumatic-haircut-415551">Indian salon ordered to pay Rs 20 million as damages for a 'traumatic' haircut</a>

Gogi was arrested in April this year by special cell of the police. He is a known criminal&nbsp;who has been involved in numerous crimes for many years.

He was also involved in killing of a 22-year-old singer in north Indian state of Haryana. She was gunned down in 2017.

On&nbsp;the incident at Rohini court, a Delhi Police spokesperson said a police team took swift action and launched counter firing.

Two of the assailants were in lawyers' attire and attacked the undertrial&nbsp;Gogi. "Both assailants died along with Gogi," the spokesperson said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scomosas-australian-pm-scott-morrison-nicknamed-indian-fried-snack-after-himself-415320">'Scomosas': Australian PM Scott Morrison nicknamed Indian fried snack after himself</a>

"They killed Gogi and the cops shot them dead," sources said adding that the judge was present in the court at the time of the incident. A woman lawyer was also injured during the firing.

Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana also confirmed that the attackers have been neutralised.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday.

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday. Jitender Gogi, the now-dead gangster, was being produced in court. Two out of three attackers were dressed as lawyers. All of them were killed by the police in retaliatory fire. As per media reports, three other people have been injured which includes a woman lawyer. The incident at a court in Delhi's Rohini area was partially caught on camera. #WATCH | Visuals of the shootout at Delhi's Rohini court today As per Delhi Police, assailants opened fire at gangster Jitender Mann 'Gogi', who has died. Three attackers have also been shot dead by police. pic.twitter.com/dYgRjQGW7J — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2021 × The gangster Jitender Gogi was killed by the attackers who reportedly belonged to rival 'Tillu' gang. News agency IANS has quoted sources as saying that the incident took place in court no 207. Also Read | Indian salon ordered to pay Rs 20 million as damages for a 'traumatic' haircut Gogi was arrested in April this year by special cell of the police. He is a known criminal who has been involved in numerous crimes for many years. He was also involved in killing of a 22-year-old singer in north Indian state of Haryana. She was gunned down in 2017. On the incident at Rohini court, a Delhi Police spokesperson said a police team took swift action and launched counter firing. Two of the assailants were in lawyers' attire and attacked the undertrial Gogi. "Both assailants died along with Gogi," the spokesperson said. Also Read | 'Scomosas': Australian PM Scott Morrison nicknamed Indian fried snack after himself "They killed Gogi and the cops shot them dead," sources said adding that the judge was present in the court at the time of the incident. A woman lawyer was also injured during the firing. Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana also confirmed that the attackers have been neutralised. (With inputs from agencies)

Straight from a crime film: Attackers dressed as lawyers kill Indian gangster inside courtroom

Heavy rains delayed flights and disrupted traffic in India`s capital New Delhi on Saturday, inundating several places including the forecourt of Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Delhi has received a 46-year high 1.0 metre (3.3 feet) of rain this monsoon season, said the Indian Meteorological Department. The season runs until the end of the month.

Vistara, SpiceJet Ltd, IndiGo and other airlines issued travel advisories, asking passengers to check the status of their flights.

"Due to waterlogging on account of heavy rains in Delhi, traffic congestion is expected. Customers travelling are advised to allow more time for their journey to the airport," Vistara tweeted.

Airport authorities later tweeted that they had drained the water "and the issue has been resolved".

Social media users posted videos of waterlogging of streets and the airport, as well as stranded busses.

The rain caused major traffic disruption and severe flooding in low-lying areas of the city, said the weather department, suggesting people stay indoors. It has issued an orange alert, indicating authorities should be prepared to take action.

It predicted thunderstorm with "heavy to very heavy intensity rain" in Delhi and neighbouring areas, that could case partial damage to vulnerable structures, plantations and standing crops, among others.

The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted information to commuters about the stretches hit by rains and suggesting alternative routes.

Heavy rains delayed flights and disrupted traffic in India`s capital New Delhi on Saturday, inundating several places including the forecourt of Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Heavy rains delayed flights and disrupted traffic in India`s capital New Delhi on Saturday, inundating several places including the forecourt of Indira Gandhi International Airport. Delhi has received a 46-year high 1.0 metre (3.3 feet) of rain this monsoon season, said the Indian Meteorological Department. The season runs until the end of the month. Vistara, SpiceJet Ltd, IndiGo and other airlines issued travel advisories, asking passengers to check the status of their flights. "Due to waterlogging on account of heavy rains in Delhi, traffic congestion is expected. Customers travelling are advised to allow more time for their journey to the airport," Vistara tweeted. Airport authorities later tweeted that they had drained the water "and the issue has been resolved". Social media users posted videos of waterlogging of streets and the airport, as well as stranded busses. The rain caused major traffic disruption and severe flooding in low-lying areas of the city, said the weather department, suggesting people stay indoors. It has issued an orange alert, indicating authorities should be prepared to take action. It predicted thunderstorm with "heavy to very heavy intensity rain" in Delhi and neighbouring areas, that could case partial damage to vulnerable structures, plantations and standing crops, among others. The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted information to commuters about the stretches hit by rains and suggesting alternative routes.

Heavy rains delay flights in Delhi, snarl traffic

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises.

"The DDMA extended the curfew on the movement of individuals except for essential activities in Delhi till 5 am on June 7 (Monday) or further orders whichever is earlier. Operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises in approved industrial areas and construction activities within their worksites shall be allowed outside the containment zones during the curfew period," reads the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order.&nbsp;

On Friday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced that the national capital will begin to unlock from Monday and said that construction activities and factories will be reopened from May 31.

"In the meeting chaired by the Lieutenant Governor with Delhi Disaster Management Authority over unlocking process, it has been decided that construction activities and factories will be reopened from Monday keeping the daily wage workers in mind," he said.

Kejriwal urged people to follow the COVID-appropriate behaviour and stated that Delhi may have to opt for lockdown if there is an increase in the COVID cases again.The national capital has been under a lockdown since April 19 in view of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic.

Delhi recorded 956 fresh COVID cases and 122 deaths on Saturday, according to the health department of the union territory. The daily new case numbers on Saturday have been the lowest over the last two month

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises.

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises. "The DDMA extended the curfew on the movement of individuals except for essential activities in Delhi till 5 am on June 7 (Monday) or further orders whichever is earlier. Operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises in approved industrial areas and construction activities within their worksites shall be allowed outside the containment zones during the curfew period," reads the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order. On Friday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced that the national capital will begin to unlock from Monday and said that construction activities and factories will be reopened from May 31. "In the meeting chaired by the Lieutenant Governor with Delhi Disaster Management Authority over unlocking process, it has been decided that construction activities and factories will be reopened from Monday keeping the daily wage workers in mind," he said. Kejriwal urged people to follow the COVID-appropriate behaviour and stated that Delhi may have to opt for lockdown if there is an increase in the COVID cases again.The national capital has been under a lockdown since April 19 in view of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic. Delhi recorded 956 fresh COVID cases and 122 deaths on Saturday, according to the health department of the union territory. The daily new case numbers on Saturday have been the lowest over the last two month

Delhi extends COVID curbs till June 7

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted a thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity intermittent rain and gusty winds over parts of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana during the next two hours.&nbsp;

"Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity intermittent rain and gusty winds with speed of 30-50 km per hour would occur over and adjoining areas of isolated places of West Delhi, South West Delhi, Kaithal, Rohtak, Bhiwani, Jhajjar (Haryana) Shikarpur, Pahasu, Bulandshahar, Etah, Jalesar, Sikandra Rao, Hathras, Iglas, Aligarh, Khair, Gabhana, Atrauli, Jattari, Khurja, Agra (U.P.) during next 2 hours," IMD tweeted.

Hail storm/ precipitation is likely over and nearby Noida during next 1 hour, the IMD said in another tweet.&nbsp;

The meteorological department also predicted no heatwave conditions are likely over any part of the country during the next 4-5 days. Earlier on Thursday, Delhi witnessed light spells of rain along with thunderstorm bringing some respite to the people from soaring temperatures.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted a thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity intermittent rain and gusty winds over parts of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana during the next two hours.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted a thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity intermittent rain and gusty winds over parts of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana during the next two hours. "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity intermittent rain and gusty winds with speed of 30-50 km per hour would occur over and adjoining areas of isolated places of West Delhi, South West Delhi, Kaithal, Rohtak, Bhiwani, Jhajjar (Haryana) Shikarpur, Pahasu, Bulandshahar, Etah, Jalesar, Sikandra Rao, Hathras, Iglas, Aligarh, Khair, Gabhana, Atrauli, Jattari, Khurja, Agra (U.P.) during next 2 hours," IMD tweeted. Hail storm/ precipitation is likely over and nearby Noida during next 1 hour, the IMD said in another tweet. The meteorological department also predicted no heatwave conditions are likely over any part of the country during the next 4-5 days. Earlier on Thursday, Delhi witnessed light spells of rain along with thunderstorm bringing some respite to the people from soaring temperatures.

IMD predicts thunderstorm, light rain over parts of Delhi, UP, Haryana today

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The 101 hospitals where 60 per cent beds will be reserved for Covid patients include leading names such as St Stephens Hospital, Max East/West Block, Batra Hospital, HAHC Hospital, BLK Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Max SS Hospital, Patparganj; Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla, Indian Spinal Injury Centre, Vasant Kunj, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Shanti Mukand Hospital, Fortis SS Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Shree Agrasain International Hospital, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, among others.

This mobilisation gives an additional 5689 Covid ward beds to the Delhi government to handle the new wave of Covid cases.

It will mobilise 633 ICU beds from 82 hospitals where 60 per cent ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients.

Another 765 ICU beds will be mobilised from 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The Delhi government said in an order that the bed capacity dedicated for Covid needs to reach the November, 2020 levels.

At present, occupancy of Covid ICU beds has reached 100 per cent in almost all large private hospitals and more than 85 per cent in 57 out of 115 private hospitals. Similarly, the occupancy of Covid beds has reached 85 per cent in 32 out of 115 hospitals and 100 per cent in all large hospitals.

Designating 14 large private hospitals as fully-Covid will give the Delhi government 1135 ICU beds and 3202 ward beds.

So, in all 8891 Covid beds are being added and 2533 ICU beds are being added in the Delhi government order.

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment.

The Delhi government has notified 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients, 82 private hospitals with 60 per cent reservation and 101 private hospitals where 60 per cent ward beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment. The 101 hospitals where 60 per cent beds will be reserved for Covid patients include leading names such as St Stephens Hospital, Max East/West Block, Batra Hospital, HAHC Hospital, BLK Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Max SS Hospital, Patparganj; Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla, Indian Spinal Injury Centre, Vasant Kunj, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, Shanti Mukand Hospital, Fortis SS Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Shree Agrasain International Hospital, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, among others. This mobilisation gives an additional 5689 Covid ward beds to the Delhi government to handle the new wave of Covid cases. It will mobilise 633 ICU beds from 82 hospitals where 60 per cent ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid patients. Another 765 ICU beds will be mobilised from 19 private hospitals where 80 per cent of ICU beds are to be reserved for Covid treatment. The Delhi government said in an order that the bed capacity dedicated for Covid needs to reach the November, 2020 levels. At present, occupancy of Covid ICU beds has reached 100 per cent in almost all large private hospitals and more than 85 per cent in 57 out of 115 private hospitals. Similarly, the occupancy of Covid beds has reached 85 per cent in 32 out of 115 hospitals and 100 per cent in all large hospitals. Designating 14 large private hospitals as fully-Covid will give the Delhi government 1135 ICU beds and 3202 ward beds. So, in all 8891 Covid beds are being added and 2533 ICU beds are being added in the Delhi government order.

Delhi gets more than 11,000 beds in private hospitals to tackle fresh Covid wave

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