India’s 10 Happiest States in 2025 - Is Yours on the List?

Introduction 

Himachal Pradesh

Mizoram

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Punjab

Gujarat

Sikkim

Puducherry

Arunachal Pradesh

Kerala

Meghalaya

 India is a diverse nation with a population of people from different walks of life. Therefore, people and their happiness also differ across the country.  Here’s a list of the top 10 happiness states in India.


US Presidential Election 2024: The United States will hold its presidential elections on Tuesday (Nov 5). Republican candidate Donald Trump will go up against Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in a crucial election that will shape the country's leadership for the next four years.

As of two days before the election, the New York Times national average shows Harris slightly ahead with 49 per cent compared to Trump’s 48 per cent. A recent poll from The New York Times and Siena College highlights that Harris is gaining ground in North Carolina and Georgia, while Trump has closed the gap in Pennsylvania and is still leading in Arizona.

Both candidates need 270 electoral votes to win. Trump’s strategy requires him to secure victories in important states in both the Rust Belt and the Sun Belt, including Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and North Carolina. According to polling averages, Trump's best chance to reach 270 electoral votes involves winning Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, assuming he holds onto all the states he won in 2020. Currently, Trump is ahead by two points in Georgia and leads North Carolina by a narrow margin, while Harris is slightly ahead in Pennsylvania.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-trump-and-harris-to-make-final-contrasting-pitches-in-key-battleground-states-day-before-polls-773208">US Elections: Trump and Harris to make final contrasting pitches in key battleground states day before polls</a>

<h2>What is a Swing State?</h2>

A swing state is one that can significantly impact the outcome of the presidential election, where both major parties have similar support. Swing states can change from one election to another due to factors like demographics and voter turnout. For instance, Georgia became a swing state after President Joe Biden’s unexpected win there in 2020 and the election of Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock in 2022.

Both Trump and Harris are focusing heavily on these swing states, making them central to their campaigns as Election Day approaches.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-us-elections-can-celebrities-really-swing-it-for-harris-or-trump-773198">US Elections: Can celebrities really swing it for Harris or Trump?</a>

<h2>Key Swing States for 2024</h2>

The following seven states are considered crucial for deciding the next president: Arizona, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada and Pennsylvania.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

US Presidential Election 2024: The United States will hold its presidential elections on Tuesday (Nov 5). Republican candidate Donald Trump will go up against Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in a crucial election that will shape the country's leadership for the next four years.

US Presidential Election 2024: The United States will hold its presidential elections on Tuesday (Nov 5). Republican candidate Donald Trump will go up against Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in a crucial election that will shape the country's leadership for the next four years. As of two days before the election, the New York Times national average shows Harris slightly ahead with 49 per cent compared to Trump’s 48 per cent. A recent poll from The New York Times and Siena College highlights that Harris is gaining ground in North Carolina and Georgia, while Trump has closed the gap in Pennsylvania and is still leading in Arizona. Both candidates need 270 electoral votes to win. Trump’s strategy requires him to secure victories in important states in both the Rust Belt and the Sun Belt, including Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and North Carolina. According to polling averages, Trump's best chance to reach 270 electoral votes involves winning Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, assuming he holds onto all the states he won in 2020. Currently, Trump is ahead by two points in Georgia and leads North Carolina by a narrow margin, while Harris is slightly ahead in Pennsylvania. Also read | US Elections: Trump and Harris to make final contrasting pitches in key battleground states day before polls What is a Swing State? A swing state is one that can significantly impact the outcome of the presidential election, where both major parties have similar support. Swing states can change from one election to another due to factors like demographics and voter turnout. For instance, Georgia became a swing state after President Joe Biden’s unexpected win there in 2020 and the election of Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock in 2022. Both Trump and Harris are focusing heavily on these swing states, making them central to their campaigns as Election Day approaches. Also read | US Elections: Can celebrities really swing it for Harris or Trump? Key Swing States for 2024 The following seven states are considered crucial for deciding the next president: Arizona, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada and Pennsylvania. (With inputs from agencies)

US Elections 2024: Key states for Trump to secure victory in the presidential poll

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 3: A total of 94 constituencies from 12 states will go to polls in the third phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 on May 7. The process of filing nominations for these began on April 12, and the last date to file nominations in Phase 3 was April 19.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 3: A total of 94 constituencies from 12 states will go to polls in the third phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 on May 7. The process of filing nominations for these began on April 12, and the last date to file nominations in Phase 3 was April 19. Gujarat's all 26 constituencies, two constituencies of Goa, and 14 constituencies of Karnataka will vote in the third phase of the general elections in India on May 7. Madhya Pradesh's Betul constituency will also vote in the third phase. The polling date was shifted from the second to the third phase due to the demise of BSP's candidate. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 3: States And Constituencies Going To Polls In Third Phase Here's the full list of states and constituencies that will vote in the third phase of polling: Assam Lok Sabha Election: Dhubri, Kokrajhar, Barpeta, Guwahati Bihar Lok Sabha Election: Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Araria, Madhepura, Khagaria Chhattisgarh Elections: Sarguja, Raigarh, Janjgir-Champa, Korba, Bilaspur, Durg, Raipur Goa Lok Sabha Election: North Goa, South Goa Gujarat Lok Sabha Elections: Kachchh, Banaskantha, Patan, Mahesana, Sabarkantha, Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad East, Ahmedabad West, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Anand, Kheda, Panchmahal, Dahod, Vadodara, Chhota Udaipur, Bharuch, Bardoli, Surat, Navsari, Valsad Karnataka Lok Sabha Elections: Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davangere, Shimoga Madhya Pradesh Elections: Bhind, Bhopal, Guna, Gwalior, Morena, Rajgarh, Sagar, Vidisha, Betul Maharashtra Elections: Baramati, Raigad, Osmanabad, Latur (SC), Solapur (SC), Madha, Sangli, Satara, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, Kolhapur, Hatkanangle Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections: Sambhal, Hathras, Agra (SC), Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Etah, Budaun, Aonla, Bareilly West Bengal Elections: Maldaha Uttar, Maldaha Dakshin, Jangipur, Murshidabad Dadra and Nagar Haveli/Daman and Diu: Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu Jammu and Kashmir: Anantnag-Rajouri ALSO READ | Congress blames BJP's Smriti Irani for vandalising their vehicles in Amethi Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Third Phase: Key Candidates The bigwigs in the fray for Lok Sabha Elections 2024's third phase are Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi, Dimple Yadav, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Supriya Sule, Digvijay Singh, BY Raghvendra and KS Eshwarappa. Amit Shah will aim for a second term in the Gandhinagar constituency, dominated by the BJP since 1989. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party's Dimple Yadav is contesting for the Mainpuri Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh, where she faces BJP candidate Jaiveer Singh. It will be a unique Pawar vs Pawar scenario in Baramati as Supriya Sule, NCP leader Sharad Pawar's daughter, and Sunetra Pawar, wife of Ajit Pawar, who recently switched to BJP-led NDA, contest in the elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 3: List of states and constituencies going to polls; Check key candidates

Heatwave conditions and scorching heat affected several states across India on Sunday with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in many places. However, the India Meteorological Department has predicted some relief from the harsh weather in some eastern states and parts of southern peninsular India this week.

Heatwave conditions and scorching heat affected several states across India on Sunday with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in many places. However, the India Meteorological Department has predicted some relief from the harsh weather in some eastern states and parts of southern peninsular India this week. IMD reported that severe heatwave conditions persisted in Gangetic West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Jharkhand. The maximum temperatures recorded were four to seven degrees Celsius above normal in these places. Furthermore, the weather department has issued an orange alert due to the heat in most districts of Karnataka, several of which are going to polls on Tuesday. Temperatures reached 42 to 44 degrees Celsius in the past few days in Karnataka's districts. The weather agency has also issued an orange alert for 13 districts in Telangana till Monday. The maximum temperature recorded in Hyderabad was nearly 44 degrees Celsius, IMD reported. ALSO READ | After India's capital city, several schools in Ahmedabad receive bomb threats In Odisha, the maximum temperature in almost all districts was nearly 44 degrees Celsius on Sunday. Meanwhile, the national capital, Delhi, recorded a temperature of 41.1 degrees Celsius on Sunday, which was two notches above normal and the highest temperature recorded so far. However, in the northeastern state of Assam, rain lashed in several parts, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. IMD has forecasted thunderstorms and strong winds in a few regions across Assam between May 6 and May 7. All educational institutions in Manipur will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday due to the intense rainfall. Heavy rain with hailstorms struck several parts of Manipur on Sunday, damaging houses and vehicles. Most states in northeast India might receive heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand might receive light to moderate rainfall between May 6 and May 9. ALSO READ |Manipur rains: Schools, colleges closed for two days as heavy showers hit Indian state Telangana might also receive rainfall and thunderstorms between May 6 and May 8. (With inputs from agencies)

India Weather Updates: Rainfall likely in THESE states after severe heatwave conditions

As the summer season has fully arrived in India, many Indian states are facing severe heat wave conditions, with many places recording temperatures as high as 45.

As the summer season has fully arrived in India, many Indian states are facing severe heat wave conditions, with many places recording temperatures as high as 45.6 degrees Celsius. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), as heatwave grips the country, there is no sign of relief for most states. On Monday, the weather department said eastern and southern regions of India will witness heatwaves for another five days. Many places in Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand will experience 'heatwave' to 'severe heatwave' conditions until May 2, said IMD. It added that parts of Rayalaseema, interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh might also experience heatwaves until May 3; Telangana from April 29 to May 1, Konkan on April 29 and the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh from April 29 to 30. On Monday, the maximum temperatures could range between 42 to 45 degrees Celsius in some regions of Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, 40 to 42 degrees Celsius in many parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, coastal parts of Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Telangana, parts of Vidarbha, Marathwada, central Maharastra, Saurashtra and Kutch, IMD reported. The temperatures are four to eight degrees Celsius above normal in many parts of Gangetic West Bengal, parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, and isolated parts of Odisha. ALSO READ | Heavy rains lash Jammu and Kashmir, highways closed for traffic While Odisha has been experiencing heat wave since April 15, the harsh weather struck Gangetic West Bengal on April 17. The weather office has also predicted hot and humid weather in West Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura on April 29, Telangana on May 2, Konkan and Goa from April 30 to May 1, and Kerala and coastal Karnataka until May 3. Many Indian cities are also experiencing higher night temperatures because of the urban heat-island effect. At the start of April, IMD forecasted a harsh and arid summer over most parts of the country in April-June. This heat wave might last for ten to 20 days. A cyclonic circulation over east Afghanistan and another over northwest Rajasthan may cause scattered rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh on April 29. Moreover, there are chances of hailstorms over Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and heavy rainfall in Jammu, Kashmir and Muzaffarabad. Assam's cyclonic circulation may cause rainfall or snowfall in Arunachal Pradesh. Rainfall is expected in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during April 29 and May 3. Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning & gusty winds is likely over Sikkim until Wednesday and over Arunachal Pradesh for the next six days. (With inputs from agencies)

India Weather: No relief from heatwave for THESE states; Check full forecast

In the second phase of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, 89 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories are voting on Friday (April 26). However, parts of some states might face a heatwave, affecting voter turnout.

In the second phase of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, 89 constituencies across 13 states and Union Territories are voting on Friday (April 26). However, parts of some states might face a heatwave, affecting voter turnout. During the first phase, 102 Lok Sabha seats across 21 states and Union Territories votes on April 19. A dip of 4.4 per cent was recorded in these seats, as the voter turnout was 65.5 per cent this year, down from 69.9 per cent in general elections 2019. The extreme heat is being speculated to be the reason behind the decline in voter count. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Constituencies Going To Polls In Second Phase Here's the list of Lok Sabha constituencies that will vote in the second phase of the general elections 2024: Assam: Karimganj, Silchar, Mangaldoi, Nawgong, Kaliabor Bihar: Kishanganj, Katihar, Purnea, Bhagalpur Chhattisgarh: Rajnandgaon, Mahasamund, Kanker Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu Karnataka: Udupi Chikamagalur, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, Chitradurga, Tumkur, Mandya, Mysore, Chamarajanagar, Bangalore Rural, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South, Chikballapur, Kolar Kerala: Kasaragod, Kannur, Vatakara, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Ponnani, Palakkad, Alathur, Thrissur, Chalakudy, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Mavelikkara, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, Attingal, Thiruvananthapuram Manipur: Outer Manipur Madhya Pradesh: Tikamgarh, Damoh, Khajuraho, Satna, Rewa, Narmadapuram, Betul Maharashtra: Buldhana, Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Yavatmal Washim, Hingoli, Nanded, Parbhani Rajasthan: Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, Ajmer, Pali, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jalore, Udaipur, Banswara, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Kota, Jhalawar-Baran Tripura: Tripura East Uttar Pradesh: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Mathura West Bengal: Darjeeling, Raiganj, Balurghat ALSO READ | 'Four more years, pause': Biden reads instructions from teleprompter in latest speech gaffe Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 2: Will heatwave affect voter turnout? IMD has issued a heatwave warning for parts of four states going to polls in the second phase - West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Konkan, Goa, Coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, and Mahe will have hot and humid temperatures. IMD states, "Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions likely to prevail in some pockets over Gangetic West Bengal and in isolated pockets over Odisha; heatwave conditions in isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Rayalaseema, Telangana and interior Karnataka." Dr Naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD, told NDTV that the weather office issued a red alert for West Bengal for the next three days. "Temperatures in Bihar will exceed 40 degrees Celsius. A heatwave is expected in eastern Uttar Pradesh after 24 hours and in western Uttar Pradesh after two days. The temperature will remain hot and humid in Kerala too," he said. As per the IMD, Gujarat, central Maharashtra, and north Karnataka are the most vulnerable to heatwaves, followed by Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. On Monday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) formed a task force consisting of officials from the IMD, the poll body, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to assess the impact of heatwave and humidity five days before each phase of polling. According to a press release by the ECI, the poll body has asked the health ministry to issue "necessary instructions to health authorities in states to prepare for and extend assistance in case of heatwave conditions affecting election operations." (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Heatwave warning issued in many states going to polls in second phase

The Cauvery River, which flows through the southern Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, has been a focal point of one of the most contentious water disputes. This long-standing conflict, known as the Cauvery water dispute, has its roots in historical agreements and differing demands.&nbsp;

The Cauvery River, often referred to as the "Ganges of the South," is a vital water resource for the southern states.&nbsp;Its waters are used primarily for irrigation, providing sustenance to millions of farmers.&nbsp;

The dispute dates back to the colonial era when the British government established agreements to allocate the river's waters among the princely states of Mysore and Madras presidency (now Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, respectively).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-report-shows-how-indians-struggle-to-control-their-blood-pressure-639723">WHO report shows how Indians struggle to control their Blood Pressure</a>

These pacts, known as the 1892 and 1924 agreements, laid the foundation for the dispute that would continue for over a century.

<h2>1892 agreement</h2>

The 1892 Agreement between&nbsp;the then State of Mysore and&nbsp;Madras was on taking up new irrigation works across the rivers.&nbsp;

But this agreement was not as significant as the one in 1924, which went on to become the real origin of the dispute.&nbsp;

<h2>1924 agreement&nbsp;</h2>

In 1910, Mysore proposed constructing the Kanambadi dam on the Cauvery River. Around the same time, Madras also proposed an irrigation project on the same river. Madras raised objections to the second phase of the Kanambadi project, prompting the Indian government's intervention.

Initially, the government hoped that the two states could reach a mutual agreement, but when this proved unattainable, a Court of Arbitration, led by Sir Henry Griffin, was appointed to address the issue.&nbsp;

Under Griffin's oversight, an agreement was crafted on February 18, 1924, which was intended to remain in effect for the next 50 years.

Comprising 10 clauses, the 1924 agreement stipulated that, for at least the subsequent five decades, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry would receive 75 per cent of the Cauvery water allocation, while 23 percent would be allocated to Mysore, with the remainder flowing into Kerala or what was then known as Travancore.

<h2>Post India's independence</h2>

After state reorganisation in 1956, Tamil Nadu received 75 per cent of Cauvery water and expanded its irrigated areas.&nbsp;But the issues persisted.&nbsp;

Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) was constituted in 1990 to adjudicate the water sharing issue. The tribunal's final order was issued in 2007.

As per this, 30 tmc (thousand million cubic feet) was alloted to Kerala, 270 tmc to Karnataka, 419 tmc to Tamil Nadu, and 7 tmc to Puducherry.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-govt-ensures-swift-action-after-photos-of-bodies-of-two-missing-students-go-viral-639684">Manipur govt ensures 'swift action' after photos of bodies of two missing students go viral</a>

On February 16, 2018, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous judgment which led to a decrease in Karnataka’s annual water releases from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC. It also reduced Tamil Nadu's share of water.&nbsp;

On the court’s direction, the Centre on June 1, 2018, established the Cauvery Water Management Authority to implement the judgement.

On August 14, the Tamil Nadu government approached the Supreme Court, requesting its intervention in compelling Karnataka to immediately release 24,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water from its reservoirs.

Tamil Nadu urged the Court to instruct Karnataka to adhere to the release of 36.76 TMC of water, as mandated for September 2023 by the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) in 2007.

Karnataka contended that lower rainfall in the Cauvery catchment area, encompassing regions in Kerala, had led to inadequate inflow into its reservoirs.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah explained that historically, whenever there was excess water in the reservoirs, Karnataka willingly supplied it to Tamil Nadu. However, this year, unfavourable conditions have left Karnataka unable to do so.

Once the matter reached the court, the Supreme Court declined to intervene with the orders of the Cauvery Water Management Authority and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/78th-unga-meet-eam-s-jaishankar-to-address-unga-meet-amid-mounting-india-canada-diplomatic-tensions-639734">78th UNGA Meet: EAM S Jaishankar to address UNGA meet amid mounting India-Canada diplomatic tensions</a>

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These orders had directed Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu.

On September 18, the Cauvery Water Management Authority reiterated the requirement for Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of water to Tamil Nadu for a duration of 15 days, upholding the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's previous order issued on September 12.

<h2>What are the contentions?&nbsp;</h2>

The Karnataka government contends that since the 1924 agreement had a 50-year expiration date, its terms should not be applicable to today's water distribution.

Karnataka also argues that at the time the agreement was reached, Tamil Nadu was a British province, and Karnataka was a princely state, which may have limited its ability to assert its interests effectively.

Conversely, Tamil Nadu asserts that altering the fundamental nature of 1924 agreement would be detrimental to both regions.

Tamil Nadu claims that when the agreement was originally negotiated, it was understood that its clauses would be reviewed after 50 years, rather than entirely overhauled.

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The Cauvery River, which flows through the southern Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, has been a focal point of one of the most contentious water disputes.

The Cauvery River, which flows through the southern Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, has been a focal point of one of the most contentious water disputes. This long-standing conflict, known as the Cauvery water dispute, has its roots in historical agreements and differing demands. The Cauvery River, often referred to as the "Ganges of the South," is a vital water resource for the southern states. Its waters are used primarily for irrigation, providing sustenance to millions of farmers. The dispute dates back to the colonial era when the British government established agreements to allocate the river's waters among the princely states of Mysore and Madras presidency (now Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, respectively). Also Read | WHO report shows how Indians struggle to control their Blood Pressure These pacts, known as the 1892 and 1924 agreements, laid the foundation for the dispute that would continue for over a century. 1892 agreement The 1892 Agreement between the then State of Mysore and Madras was on taking up new irrigation works across the rivers. But this agreement was not as significant as the one in 1924, which went on to become the real origin of the dispute. 1924 agreement In 1910, Mysore proposed constructing the Kanambadi dam on the Cauvery River. Around the same time, Madras also proposed an irrigation project on the same river. Madras raised objections to the second phase of the Kanambadi project, prompting the Indian government's intervention. Initially, the government hoped that the two states could reach a mutual agreement, but when this proved unattainable, a Court of Arbitration, led by Sir Henry Griffin, was appointed to address the issue. Under Griffin's oversight, an agreement was crafted on February 18, 1924, which was intended to remain in effect for the next 50 years. Comprising 10 clauses, the 1924 agreement stipulated that, for at least the subsequent five decades, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry would receive 75 per cent of the Cauvery water allocation, while 23 percent would be allocated to Mysore, with the remainder flowing into Kerala or what was then known as Travancore. Post India's independence After state reorganisation in 1956, Tamil Nadu received 75 per cent of Cauvery water and expanded its irrigated areas. But the issues persisted. Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) was constituted in 1990 to adjudicate the water sharing issue. The tribunal's final order was issued in 2007. As per this, 30 tmc (thousand million cubic feet) was alloted to Kerala, 270 tmc to Karnataka, 419 tmc to Tamil Nadu, and 7 tmc to Puducherry. Also Read | Manipur govt ensures 'swift action' after photos of bodies of two missing students go viral On February 16, 2018, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous judgment which led to a decrease in Karnataka’s annual water releases from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC. It also reduced Tamil Nadu's share of water. On the court’s direction, the Centre on June 1, 2018, established the Cauvery Water Management Authority to implement the judgement. On August 14, the Tamil Nadu government approached the Supreme Court, requesting its intervention in compelling Karnataka to immediately release 24,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water from its reservoirs. Tamil Nadu urged the Court to instruct Karnataka to adhere to the release of 36.76 TMC of water, as mandated for September 2023 by the final award of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) in 2007. Karnataka contended that lower rainfall in the Cauvery catchment area, encompassing regions in Kerala, had led to inadequate inflow into its reservoirs. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah explained that historically, whenever there was excess water in the reservoirs, Karnataka willingly supplied it to Tamil Nadu. However, this year, unfavourable conditions have left Karnataka unable to do so. Once the matter reached the court, the Supreme Court declined to intervene with the orders of the Cauvery Water Management Authority and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee. Watch | 78th UNGA Meet: EAM S Jaishankar to address UNGA meet amid mounting India-Canada diplomatic tensions × These orders had directed Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu. On September 18, the Cauvery Water Management Authority reiterated the requirement for Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of water to Tamil Nadu for a duration of 15 days, upholding the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's previous order issued on September 12. What are the contentions? The Karnataka government contends that since the 1924 agreement had a 50-year expiration date, its terms should not be applicable to today's water distribution. Karnataka also argues that at the time the agreement was reached, Tamil Nadu was a British province, and Karnataka was a princely state, which may have limited its ability to assert its interests effectively. Conversely, Tamil Nadu asserts that altering the fundamental nature of 1924 agreement would be detrimental to both regions. Tamil Nadu claims that when the agreement was originally negotiated, it was understood that its clauses would be reviewed after 50 years, rather than entirely overhauled. 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. ×

Explained: What is Cauvery water dispute between Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka?

Several states of the United States issued an alert after one person died and 16 others were infected by West Nile virus which is spreading in New York City. 
 
The virus is found in the five boroughs of the Big Apple: Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx and Manhattan. 
 
State officials identified more mosquito pools infected with the virus this year in comparison to the five-year average. 
 
As of Friday, 16 cases of West Nile virus were reported across the five boroughs, and the maximum number of cases were found in Queens, reported the Health Department of the city.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-deadly-nipah-virus-strikes-india-symptoms-and-more-heres-all-you-need-to-know-636432">Explained | Deadly Nipah virus strikes India; symptoms, and more, here's all you need to know</a>

On Friday (September 15), the first death was reported due to the virus in Bergen County, New Jersey. 
 
Out of the eight cases of West Nile virus so far reported in the states, six people were hospitalised, stated the New Jersey Health Department. 
 
In 2022, the officials reported 20 cases of the virus in New Jersey, out of which four proved to be fatal. 
 
On the other hand, New York City reported 46 cases last year, out of which two became fatal. Fortunately, no cases of the virus have been reported so far in New York.

<h2>What causes West Nile virus and how to protect oneself?</h2>

As per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the West Nile virus has become the primary cause for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in the US, as most of the cases were reported during the summer and fall. 
 
As per data, roughly one in five people developed symptoms after they were infected with the virus. Additionally, one in around 150 people develop symptoms of severe illness like fever, muscle weakness, headache, altered mental status and paralysis.

WATCH |&nbsp;Nipah Virus: Indian govt scrambles to contain spread | Live Discussion

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The virus which originated in 1937 got its name from Uganda's West Nile district where it was first found and isolated. The virus is usually spread by mosquitoes which become infected after feeding on infected birds that are often carriers of the disease. 
 
The virus is related genetically to the Japanese encephalitis family of viruses. Till now, no human vaccine has been invented for the virus.

As per health officials, people have to avoid mosquito bites to protect themselves from the virus. 
 
Also, the population of mosquitoes can be reduced by preventing stagnant pools of water in swimming pools, gutters and buckets.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Several states of the United States issued an alert after one person died and 16 others were infected by West Nile virus which is spreading in New York City. The virus is found in the five boroughs of the Big Apple: Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx and Manhattan.

Several states of the United States issued an alert after one person died and 16 others were infected by West Nile virus which is spreading in New York City. The virus is found in the five boroughs of the Big Apple: Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx and Manhattan. State officials identified more mosquito pools infected with the virus this year in comparison to the five-year average. As of Friday, 16 cases of West Nile virus were reported across the five boroughs, and the maximum number of cases were found in Queens, reported the Health Department of the city. ALSO READ | Explained | Deadly Nipah virus strikes India; symptoms, and more, here's all you need to know On Friday (September 15), the first death was reported due to the virus in Bergen County, New Jersey. Out of the eight cases of West Nile virus so far reported in the states, six people were hospitalised, stated the New Jersey Health Department. In 2022, the officials reported 20 cases of the virus in New Jersey, out of which four proved to be fatal. On the other hand, New York City reported 46 cases last year, out of which two became fatal. Fortunately, no cases of the virus have been reported so far in New York. What causes West Nile virus and how to protect oneself? As per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the West Nile virus has become the primary cause for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in the US, as most of the cases were reported during the summer and fall. As per data, roughly one in five people developed symptoms after they were infected with the virus. Additionally, one in around 150 people develop symptoms of severe illness like fever, muscle weakness, headache, altered mental status and paralysis. WATCH | Nipah Virus: Indian govt scrambles to contain spread | Live Discussion The virus which originated in 1937 got its name from Uganda's West Nile district where it was first found and isolated. The virus is usually spread by mosquitoes which become infected after feeding on infected birds that are often carriers of the disease. The virus is related genetically to the Japanese encephalitis family of viruses. Till now, no human vaccine has been invented for the virus. As per health officials, people have to avoid mosquito bites to protect themselves from the virus. Also, the population of mosquitoes can be reduced by preventing stagnant pools of water in swimming pools, gutters and buckets. (With inputs 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

US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death

The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur&nbsp;and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue.&nbsp;

"We have received seven responses from state governments. Rajasthan has taken a position that they have examined and opposed it, while the rest say that this needs an expansive debate," said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to the court.

Various religions and underlined Acts, which fall under the Constitution, were quoted by the opposing states to support their stand against same-sex marriage.

The Rajasthan government, opposing same-sex marriage's legalisation, said that people's sentiments were against homosexual marriages.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/urban-elite-concept-indian-govt-opposes-same-sex-marriage-as-sc-to-begin-hearing-583259">‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing</a>

The provisions regarding marriage in Muslim Law, &nbsp;Special Marriage Act and Hindu Marriage Act were quoted by the government to justify its stand.

“Section 5 of the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) states the essential conditions of marriage. These provisions make it clear that any matrimonial ceremony between a bride and a groom shall be valid only if the age of the groom is not less than 21 years and the age of the bride is not less than 18 years,” the state government said.&nbsp;

“In the Act, marriage between two persons of the opposite sex is considered valid, and the minimum age of separation has been fixed for them. Thus, marriage is a sacrament in Hinduism,” it further added.

“Son born from heterosexual marriages liberates 21 generations from sin - 10 from past generations and 10 from future generations - including self. Therefore, matrimonial belief in Hinduism is connected to the birth of a son. Marriage in Muslim law is considered a contract between man and woman," the government argued.

“Nikah (marriage) in Muslim law has three components 1. A willing couple 2. Witness, and 3. Mehr. The concepts of "mehr" and "iddat" also resolve that even in Muslim law, marriages are valid only between two persons of the opposite sex, where mehr is seen as a gift from the groom to the bride as a token of respect,” it said in its reply.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Asssam government said, “It may be said that even across cross-sections of societies, the legal understanding of marriage has been that of an agreement/contract between two persons of opposite genders."&nbsp;

WATCH | Central government files affidavit against same-sex marriage

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“Marriage, divorce and ancillary subjects so related, fall under entry 5 of the Concurrent list of the Constitution and hence it is also in the domain of the state legislature in a manner that it is in the domain of Union Parliament,” it further stated.

Meanwhile, the apex court earlier stated that Indian laws permit a person to adopt a child irrespective of his/her marital status as it asserted that the law does recognise situations which may not fit in the category of an “ideal family”, where couples have their own biological children.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in its submission, argued that the idea of gender may be “fluid” and may not be restricted to mothers and motherhood.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;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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The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue.

The Indian government on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that replies were sent by seven states on the issue of same-sex marriage issue. The idea was opposed by Congress-led Rajasthan and states like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur and Sikkim demanded more time to examine the issue. "We have received seven responses from state governments. Rajasthan has taken a position that they have examined and opposed it, while the rest say that this needs an expansive debate," said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to the court. Various religions and underlined Acts, which fall under the Constitution, were quoted by the opposing states to support their stand against same-sex marriage. The Rajasthan government, opposing same-sex marriage's legalisation, said that people's sentiments were against homosexual marriages. ALSO READ | ‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing The provisions regarding marriage in Muslim Law, Special Marriage Act and Hindu Marriage Act were quoted by the government to justify its stand. “Section 5 of the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) states the essential conditions of marriage. These provisions make it clear that any matrimonial ceremony between a bride and a groom shall be valid only if the age of the groom is not less than 21 years and the age of the bride is not less than 18 years,” the state government said. “In the Act, marriage between two persons of the opposite sex is considered valid, and the minimum age of separation has been fixed for them. Thus, marriage is a sacrament in Hinduism,” it further added. “Son born from heterosexual marriages liberates 21 generations from sin - 10 from past generations and 10 from future generations - including self. Therefore, matrimonial belief in Hinduism is connected to the birth of a son. Marriage in Muslim law is considered a contract between man and woman," the government argued. “Nikah (marriage) in Muslim law has three components 1. A willing couple 2. Witness, and 3. Mehr. The concepts of "mehr" and "iddat" also resolve that even in Muslim law, marriages are valid only between two persons of the opposite sex, where mehr is seen as a gift from the groom to the bride as a token of respect,” it said in its reply. Meanwhile, the Asssam government said, “It may be said that even across cross-sections of societies, the legal understanding of marriage has been that of an agreement/contract between two persons of opposite genders." WATCH | Central government files affidavit against same-sex marriage “Marriage, divorce and ancillary subjects so related, fall under entry 5 of the Concurrent list of the Constitution and hence it is also in the domain of the state legislature in a manner that it is in the domain of Union Parliament,” it further stated. Meanwhile, the apex court earlier stated that Indian laws permit a person to adopt a child irrespective of his/her marital status as it asserted that the law does recognise situations which may not fit in the category of an “ideal family”, where couples have their own biological children. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in its submission, argued that the idea of gender may be “fluid” and may not be restricted to mothers and motherhood. 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

India: Rajasthan stands against same-sex marriage, 6 states demand time to examine matter

Across the US, many anti-homeless laws are being passed due to a reduction in funds for social services which has become an issue of concern among advocates of homeless people.&nbsp;In the state of Missouri, a new law came into effect on January 1 which states that sleeping on state property is an act of criminal offence. For the homeless, sleeping under highways or in public parks can result in fines of up to $750 or imprisonment of 15 days.

The law was criticised by the advocates of homeless people who claimed that it targets the homeless populations of Missouri unfairly. Missouri’s governor Mike Parson signed the law last June.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-proposes-up-to-332-per-cent-hike-for-h1-b-other-visa-fees-549726">US proposes up to 332 per cent hike for H1-B, other visa fees</a>

“We are absolutely hearing that law enforcement is using this new law that’s coming as reason to displace people already,” said non-profit Empower Missouri's advocacy director Sarah Owsley to St Louis Public Radio, days before the officials brought the law into effect.&nbsp;

The Republican-backed measure, which included the appointment of mental health director Valerie Huhn by Parson, was opposed by many people, stated the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

“When people experiencing homelessness have criminal justice histories, it is difficult to find housing,” Huhn had written to the governor’s budget office in a May 2022 letter, referring to the criminal consequences of the law.&nbsp;

After the law came into effect, the authorities decreased funds for homeless services in Missouri and made changes to other funding streams.

“We’re going to see less money into the homeless services community over this length of time. And so that’s very concerning, we’re already an extremely underfunded resource,” Owsley said.&nbsp;

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: United States has approved world's first vaccine for honeybees

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The local municipalities and cities in the US have also sanctioned measures which affect homeless individuals, through forced hospitalisation or criminal consequences.

Authorities have faced backlash after officials made attempts to remove homeless encampments or put a limit to where homeless people can set up their camps.

The Los Angeles city council in August voted for banning homeless encampments within 500 feet of daycares and schools, an extension of the anti-camping law of the city which has empowered police to remove encampments.&nbsp;

People Assisting the Homeless spokesperson Tyler Renner said, “Enforcement of anti-camping ordinances ... only displaces people and makes it harder for trained outreach staff to establish trust again."&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Across the US, many anti-homeless laws are being passed due to a reduction in funds for social services which has become an issue of concern among advocates of homeless people.

Across the US, many anti-homeless laws are being passed due to a reduction in funds for social services which has become an issue of concern among advocates of homeless people. In the state of Missouri, a new law came into effect on January 1 which states that sleeping on state property is an act of criminal offence. For the homeless, sleeping under highways or in public parks can result in fines of up to $750 or imprisonment of 15 days. The law was criticised by the advocates of homeless people who claimed that it targets the homeless populations of Missouri unfairly. Missouri’s governor Mike Parson signed the law last June. ALSO READ| US proposes up to 332 per cent hike for H1-B, other visa fees “We are absolutely hearing that law enforcement is using this new law that’s coming as reason to displace people already,” said non-profit Empower Missouri's advocacy director Sarah Owsley to St Louis Public Radio, days before the officials brought the law into effect. The Republican-backed measure, which included the appointment of mental health director Valerie Huhn by Parson, was opposed by many people, stated the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “When people experiencing homelessness have criminal justice histories, it is difficult to find housing,” Huhn had written to the governor’s budget office in a May 2022 letter, referring to the criminal consequences of the law. After the law came into effect, the authorities decreased funds for homeless services in Missouri and made changes to other funding streams. “We’re going to see less money into the homeless services community over this length of time. And so that’s very concerning, we’re already an extremely underfunded resource,” Owsley said. WATCH| WION Climate Tracker: United States has approved world's first vaccine for honeybees The local municipalities and cities in the US have also sanctioned measures which affect homeless individuals, through forced hospitalisation or criminal consequences. Authorities have faced backlash after officials made attempts to remove homeless encampments or put a limit to where homeless people can set up their camps. The Los Angeles city council in August voted for banning homeless encampments within 500 feet of daycares and schools, an extension of the anti-camping law of the city which has empowered police to remove encampments. People Assisting the Homeless spokesperson Tyler Renner said, “Enforcement of anti-camping ordinances ... only displaces people and makes it harder for trained outreach staff to establish trust again." (With inputs from agencies)

US states pass numerous anti-homeless laws, activists raise concerns

75 years since Independence, India today comprises of 29 states and 8 Union Territories. Before the 1947 partition, India had around 565 princely states.

India@75: How states were formed

India@75: How states

Voting has started in Indian states of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Goa on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The polling is being carried out for 55 Assembly seats in UP and 40 seats in Goa. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marvellous-accomplishment-in-2022s-maiden-mission-isro-puts-three-satellites-into-orbit-successfully-453091" hreflang="en">Marvellous accomplishment: In 2022's maiden mission, ISRO puts three satellites into orbit successfully</a>

It is the second phase of the Assembly elections in UP and is being held in nine districts. In this phase, around 586 candidates are in the fray. The elections are being conducted for seats spread across Bareilly, Moradabad, Sambhal, Saharanpur, Bijnor, Amroha, Budaun, Rampur and Shahjahanpur. &nbsp;

Polling is being done in seven phases in Uttar Pradesh. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Brahmdev Ram Tripathi said all the necessary arrangements have been made to ensure free, fair, transparent and Covid-safe polling. &nbsp;

In Goa, 301 candidates are contesting polls, the officials said. For the convenience of female voters, over 100 'all-women' polling booths have been set up in the state. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/industrialist-rahul-bajaj-cremated-with-full-state-honours-in-pune-453073" hreflang="en">Industrialist Rahul Bajaj cremated with full state honours in Pune</a>

The voting began at 7 am and will end at 6 pm. In the coastal state, the elections are being held in a single phase, the officials said. Around 11 lakh people are eligible to cast votes in the state. &nbsp;

The results of the elections will be declared on March 10. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Voting has started in Indian states of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Goa on Monday. The polling is being carried out for 55 Assembly seats in UP and 40 seats in Goa. Also Read: Marvellous accomplishment: In 2022's maiden mission, ISRO puts three satellites into orbit successfully It is the second phase of the Assembly elections in UP and is being held in nine districts.

Voting has started in Indian states of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Goa on Monday. The polling is being carried out for 55 Assembly seats in UP and 40 seats in Goa. Also Read: Marvellous accomplishment: In 2022's maiden mission, ISRO puts three satellites into orbit successfully It is the second phase of the Assembly elections in UP and is being held in nine districts. In this phase, around 586 candidates are in the fray. The elections are being conducted for seats spread across Bareilly, Moradabad, Sambhal, Saharanpur, Bijnor, Amroha, Budaun, Rampur and Shahjahanpur. Polling is being done in seven phases in Uttar Pradesh. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Brahmdev Ram Tripathi said all the necessary arrangements have been made to ensure free, fair, transparent and Covid-safe polling. In Goa, 301 candidates are contesting polls, the officials said. For the convenience of female voters, over 100 'all-women' polling booths have been set up in the state. Also Read: Industrialist Rahul Bajaj cremated with full state honours in Pune The voting began at 7 am and will end at 6 pm. In the coastal state, the elections are being held in a single phase, the officials said. Around 11 lakh people are eligible to cast votes in the state. The results of the elections will be declared on March 10. (With inputs from agencies)

UP, Goa Assembly Polls 2022: Polling underway in two Indian states; 55 seats in UP, 40 in Goa up for grabs

With the omicron variant depleting school staffs as it sweeps across the country, some states are resorting to increasingly creative measures to find the substitute teachers needed to keep schools open, in one case even calling on the National Guard.

State workers can now serve as substitute teachers in some hard-hit districts, while other states are loosening rules to speed up the hiring of substitutes or draw retirees back into the classroom.

In New Mexico, where new cases have more than tripled over the past two weeks, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has asked the National Guard and state workers to fill in as substitute teachers.

“Our kids, our teachers and our parents deserve as much stability as we can provide during this time of uncertainty,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said in a statement Wednesday, “and the state stands ready to help keep kids in the classroom.”

Under New Mexico’s initiative, National Guard members and state workers must become licensed as substitute teachers or child care workers and fulfill the usual requirements for substitute teachers, such as background checks and a teaching workshop.

In recent weeks, about 60 school districts and charter schools in New Mexico have moved to remote learning, and 75 child care centers have partially or completely closed because of staffing shortages, state officials said.

Keeping schools open during the omicron wave has become a fiercely debated issue nationally, especially among parents. President Joe Biden was asked about school closings at a White House news conference on Wednesday, and he was quick to point out that most schools were open.

“Let’s put it in perspective: 95%, as high as 98%, of the schools in America are open, functioning and capable of doing the job,” Biden said, adding that he encouraged states and school districts to use funding to keep schools open.

According to Burbio, a data company that has tracked how schools are responding to the pandemic, for the past five schools days an average of 3,631 of the 98,000 public schools have been disrupted each day, a relatively low figure.

Whitney Holland, president of the American Federation of Teachers in New Mexico, said Wednesday that the teacher staffing shortage was a “nationwide crisis.”

“I think ‘dire’ is an appropriate word,” Holland said, adding that she supported Grisham’s initiative to keep schools open for students.

“As long as there’s a positive adult that they can build connections with — whether it’s a National Guard member or a state employee or a substitute — and we’re keeping our schools open, that’s our top priority,” she said.

In Oklahoma, Gov. Kevin Stitt issued an executive order on Tuesday which allows state agencies to let their workers serve as substitute teachers without affecting their regular job, pay or benefits.

“I’ve said from the beginning that our students deserve an in-person education and our schools need to stay open,” Stitt said. “The state has a responsibility to do what we can to help make that happen.”

In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order last week that loosened rules for substitute teachers, citing the omicron surge. Set to run through March, the order speeds up hiring for qualified short-term substitutes, lets current substitutes have their assignments extended, and makes it easier for retired teachers to return.

Teachers are not the only school employees in short supply. Last year in Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker activated the National Guard to help with a shortage in bus drivers. And in North Carolina, legislators gave districts federal funding to cover signing bonuses to help ease a shortage of cafeteria workers.

With the omicron variant depleting school staffs as it sweeps across the country, some states are resorting to increasingly creative measures to find the substitute teachers needed to keep schools open, in one case even calling on the National Guard.

With the omicron variant depleting school staffs as it sweeps across the country, some states are resorting to increasingly creative measures to find the substitute teachers needed to keep schools open, in one case even calling on the National Guard. State workers can now serve as substitute teachers in some hard-hit districts, while other states are loosening rules to speed up the hiring of substitutes or draw retirees back into the classroom. In New Mexico, where new cases have more than tripled over the past two weeks, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has asked the National Guard and state workers to fill in as substitute teachers. “Our kids, our teachers and our parents deserve as much stability as we can provide during this time of uncertainty,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said in a statement Wednesday, “and the state stands ready to help keep kids in the classroom.” Under New Mexico’s initiative, National Guard members and state workers must become licensed as substitute teachers or child care workers and fulfill the usual requirements for substitute teachers, such as background checks and a teaching workshop. In recent weeks, about 60 school districts and charter schools in New Mexico have moved to remote learning, and 75 child care centers have partially or completely closed because of staffing shortages, state officials said. Keeping schools open during the omicron wave has become a fiercely debated issue nationally, especially among parents. President Joe Biden was asked about school closings at a White House news conference on Wednesday, and he was quick to point out that most schools were open. “Let’s put it in perspective: 95%, as high as 98%, of the schools in America are open, functioning and capable of doing the job,” Biden said, adding that he encouraged states and school districts to use funding to keep schools open. According to Burbio, a data company that has tracked how schools are responding to the pandemic, for the past five schools days an average of 3,631 of the 98,000 public schools have been disrupted each day, a relatively low figure. Whitney Holland, president of the American Federation of Teachers in New Mexico, said Wednesday that the teacher staffing shortage was a “nationwide crisis.” “I think ‘dire’ is an appropriate word,” Holland said, adding that she supported Grisham’s initiative to keep schools open for students. “As long as there’s a positive adult that they can build connections with — whether it’s a National Guard member or a state employee or a substitute — and we’re keeping our schools open, that’s our top priority,” she said. In Oklahoma, Gov. Kevin Stitt issued an executive order on Tuesday which allows state agencies to let their workers serve as substitute teachers without affecting their regular job, pay or benefits. “I’ve said from the beginning that our students deserve an in-person education and our schools need to stay open,” Stitt said. “The state has a responsibility to do what we can to help make that happen.” In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order last week that loosened rules for substitute teachers, citing the omicron surge. Set to run through March, the order speeds up hiring for qualified short-term substitutes, lets current substitutes have their assignments extended, and makes it easier for retired teachers to return. Teachers are not the only school employees in short supply. Last year in Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker activated the National Guard to help with a shortage in bus drivers. And in North Carolina, legislators gave districts federal funding to cover signing bonuses to help ease a shortage of cafeteria workers.

States taking desperate measures to avoid closing schools

Nowadays, Tesla CEO Elon Musk seems to be in high demand in India. The billionaire&nbsp;has been invited by some Indian states to come up with different kinds of units for its electric cars in their respective areas.

Till now, two states, namely, Maharashtra and Telangana, have made the offer. &nbsp;

On Sunday, Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Jayant Patil asked Musk to set up manufacturing in the state for its products. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-covid-19-peaking-in-india-nation-logs-271202-new-cases-positivity-rate-at-1628-445138" hreflang="en">Is COVID-19 peaking in India? Nation logs 2,71,202 new cases, positivity rate at 16.28%</a>

In a tweet to Musk, Patil said, "Maharashtra is one of the most progressive states in India. We will provide you all the necessary help to get you established in India. We invite you to establish your manufacturing plant in state." &nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>, Maharashtra is one of the most progressive states in India. We will provide you all the necessary help from Maharashtra for you to get established in India. We invite you to establish your manufacturing plant in Maharashtra. <a href="https://t.co/w8sSZTpUpb">https://t.co/w8sSZTpUpb</a>
— Jayant Patil- जयंत पाटील (@Jayant_R_Patil) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jayant_R_Patil/status/1482565319764099077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Telangana Industry and Commerce Minister K T Rama Rao had also invited the CEO to come up with shop in his state. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hey Elon, I am the Industry &amp; Commerce Minister of Telangana state in India 
 
Will be happy to partner Tesla in working through the challenges to set shop in India/Telangana 
 
Our state is a champion in sustainability initiatives &amp; a top notch business destination in India <a href="https://t.co/hVpMZyjEIr">https://t.co/hVpMZyjEIr</a>
— KTR (@KTRTRS) <a href="https://twitter.com/KTRTRS/status/1482054155573534720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rama Rao said on Twitter, "Hey Elon, I am the Industry and Commerce Minister of Telangana state in India. Will be happy to partner with Tesla in working through the challenges to set shop in India/Telangana. Our state is a champion in sustainability initiatives and a top-notch business destination in India." &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I invite <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>, Punjab Model will create Ludhiana as hub for Electric Vehicles &amp; Battery industry with time bound single window clearance for investment that brings new technology to Punjab, create green jobs, walking path of environment preservation &amp; sustainable development <a href="https://t.co/kXDMhcdVi6">https://t.co/kXDMhcdVi6</a>
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp/status/1482652632111992833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Senior ministers from Punjab and West Bengal have also extended invitations to Musk.&nbsp;

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Drop here, we in West Bengal have best infra &amp; our leader <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> has got the vision. 
 
Bengal means Business … <a href="https://t.co/CXtx4Oq7y5">https://t.co/CXtx4Oq7y5</a>
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The invites were triggered after the billionaire informed that the carmaker is facing numerous challenges for launching its car in India. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-promote-culture-of-start-ups-january-16-to-be-celebrated-as-national-start-up-day-says-pm-modi-445103" hreflang="en">To promote culture of start-ups, January 16 to be celebrated as 'National Start-up Day,' says PM Modi</a>

"Still working through a lot of challenges with the government," Musk had said on social microblogging site. &nbsp;

This came as a user had tweeted, "Yo @elonmusk any further update as to when Tesla will launch in India? They’re pretty awesome and deserve to be in every corner of the world!" &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Nowadays, Tesla CEO Elon Musk seems to be in high demand in India. The billionaire has been invited by some Indian states to come up with different kinds of units for its electric cars in their respective areas.

Nowadays, Tesla CEO Elon Musk seems to be in high demand in India. The billionaire has been invited by some Indian states to come up with different kinds of units for its electric cars in their respective areas. Till now, two states, namely, Maharashtra and Telangana, have made the offer. On Sunday, Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Jayant Patil asked Musk to set up manufacturing in the state for its products. Also Read: Is COVID-19 peaking in India? Nation logs 2,71,202 new cases, positivity rate at 16.28% In a tweet to Musk, Patil said, "Maharashtra is one of the most progressive states in India. We will provide you all the necessary help to get you established in India. We invite you to establish your manufacturing plant in state." .@elonmusk, Maharashtra is one of the most progressive states in India. We will provide you all the necessary help from Maharashtra for you to get established in India. We invite you to establish your manufacturing plant in Maharashtra. https://t.co/w8sSZTpUpb — Jayant Patil- जयंत पाटील (@Jayant_R_Patil) January 16, 2022 × Earlier, Telangana Industry and Commerce Minister K T Rama Rao had also invited the CEO to come up with shop in his state. Hey Elon, I am the Industry & Commerce Minister of Telangana state in India Will be happy to partner Tesla in working through the challenges to set shop in India/Telangana Our state is a champion in sustainability initiatives & a top notch business destination in India https://t.co/hVpMZyjEIr — KTR (@KTRTRS) January 14, 2022 × Rama Rao said on Twitter, "Hey Elon, I am the Industry and Commerce Minister of Telangana state in India. Will be happy to partner with Tesla in working through the challenges to set shop in India/Telangana. Our state is a champion in sustainability initiatives and a top-notch business destination in India." I invite @elonmusk, Punjab Model will create Ludhiana as hub for Electric Vehicles & Battery industry with time bound single window clearance for investment that brings new technology to Punjab, create green jobs, walking path of environment preservation & sustainable development https://t.co/kXDMhcdVi6 — Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 16, 2022 × Senior ministers from Punjab and West Bengal have also extended invitations to Musk. Drop here, we in West Bengal have best infra & our leader @MamataOfficial has got the vision. Bengal means Business … https://t.co/CXtx4Oq7y5 — Md Ghulam Rabbani (রাব্বানী) (@GhulamRabbani_) January 15, 2022 × The invites were triggered after the billionaire informed that the carmaker is facing numerous challenges for launching its car in India. Also Read: To promote culture of start-ups, January 16 to be celebrated as 'National Start-up Day,' says PM Modi "Still working through a lot of challenges with the government," Musk had said on social microblogging site. This came as a user had tweeted, "Yo @elonmusk any further update as to when Tesla will launch in India? They’re pretty awesome and deserve to be in every corner of the world!" (With inputs from agencies)

Indian states invite Tesla CEO Elon Musk to set up units for its electric cars

United Nations member states agreed on Tuesday to a budget of some $6 billion for the world body's 12 peacekeeping missions for the next year, diplomats said, narrowly averting a possible shutdown of the operations.

The 193-member UN&nbsp;General Assembly budget committee agreed to the peacekeeping budget for the year through June 30, 2022. It will be formally adopted by the General Assembly on Wednesday.

Top UN&nbsp;officials said on Monday that UN&nbsp;peacekeeping missions, most of which are in Africa and the Middle East, had been advised to start putting contingency plans in place in case a new budget was not adopted by June 30.

Some diplomats said changes to negotiating procedures, issues with logistics and tough talk pitting China against Western countries had threatened to delay an agreement.

"Our chronic inability to respect deadlines puts the entire peacekeeping architecture in unprecedented jeopardy," European Union diplomat Thibault Camelli told the budget committee on Tuesday. "Going forward, and for the future negotiations, we owe it ... to the women and men in the field who carry out the peacekeeping mandates to finish our work in a timely fashion."

Catherine Pollard, the UN&nbsp;head of management strategy, policy and compliance, told reporters on Monday that if the June 30 deadline was missed then Secretary-General Antonio Guterres could only spend money to safeguard UN&nbsp;assets and ensure the protection of the staff and the peacekeepers.

The United States is largest assessed contributor to the peacekeeping budget, responsible for about 28%, followed by China with 15.2% and Japan with 8.5%.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations member states agreed on Tuesday to a budget of some $6 billion for the world body's 12 peacekeeping missions for the next year, diplomats said, narrowly averting a possible shutdown of the operations.

United Nations member states agreed on Tuesday to a budget of some $6 billion for the world body's 12 peacekeeping missions for the next year, diplomats said, narrowly averting a possible shutdown of the operations. The 193-member UN General Assembly budget committee agreed to the peacekeeping budget for the year through June 30, 2022. It will be formally adopted by the General Assembly on Wednesday. Top UN officials said on Monday that UN peacekeeping missions, most of which are in Africa and the Middle East, had been advised to start putting contingency plans in place in case a new budget was not adopted by June 30. Some diplomats said changes to negotiating procedures, issues with logistics and tough talk pitting China against Western countries had threatened to delay an agreement. "Our chronic inability to respect deadlines puts the entire peacekeeping architecture in unprecedented jeopardy," European Union diplomat Thibault Camelli told the budget committee on Tuesday. "Going forward, and for the future negotiations, we owe it ... to the women and men in the field who carry out the peacekeeping mandates to finish our work in a timely fashion." Catherine Pollard, the UN head of management strategy, policy and compliance, told reporters on Monday that if the June 30 deadline was missed then Secretary-General Antonio Guterres could only spend money to safeguard UN assets and ensure the protection of the staff and the peacekeepers. The United States is largest assessed contributor to the peacekeeping budget, responsible for about 28%, followed by China with 15.2% and Japan with 8.5%. (With inputs from agencies)

UN member states agree to $6 billion peacekeeping budget, averting shutdown

A group of state attorneys general may file a lawsuit against Alphabet Inc's Google as early as next week, accusing the search and advertising giant of violating antitrust law in running its mobile app store, a report said citing sources familiar with the matter.

The anticipated lawsuit follows complaints from app developers about Google's management of its Play Store for Android devices, according to a source. The lawsuit has been in the works since last year and has already been delayed, but seems close again, the sources said as per Reuters report. 
 
The investigation by the state attorneys general is being led by Utah, Tennessee, North Carolina and New York. It is unclear how many states will participate. 
 
Two sources said the case is likely to be filed in federal court in Northern California, where related cases are being heard. These include a lawsuit that video game maker Epic Games Inc filed against Google last year, accusing it of having anticompetitive app store rules. It is expected to go to trial in 2022. 
 
There also are two proposed class-action lawsuits over the Play store before the same judge. If the states want to participate in depositions and other pre-trial activities, they would have to file fairly soon, one source said. 
 
Apple Inc and Epic are awaiting the verdict in a similar California lawsuit after a trial that ended last month. 
 
A Google spokesperson defended their app store as open. 
 
"Android is the only major operating system that allows people to download apps from multiple app stores. In fact, most Android devices ship with two or more app stores preinstalled. They can also install additional app stores or apps directly from their browser if they choose," the spokesperson said. 
 
Google was originally seen as more open in how it ran its app store than Apple but has tightened rules recently and increased enforcement of those rules. 
 
The lawsuit is expected to focus on Google's requirement that some apps use the company's payment tools to sell subscriptions and content and pay Google as much as 30% of sales, according to two sources. 
 
App makers like music streaming service Spotify Technology SA and dating services giant Match Group, which owns the Tinder app, have long accused both Google, as well as Apple, of being anti-competitive in demanding mandatory revenue sharing. 
 
This latest lawsuit is being planned at a time of unusually vigorous debate over whether federal antitrust enforcement is too lax. Many people, including Senator Amy Klobuchar who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust panel, have pressed for tougher enforcement. 
 
Google already faces a federal lawsuit brought by the Justice Department last year and related antitrust cases brought by two separate groups of attorneys general. One is led by Texas and focused on advertising while the other targets Google's alleged efforts to extend its dominance in search to newer markets, like voice assistants. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A group of state attorneys general may file a lawsuit against Alphabet Inc's Google as early as next week, accusing the search and advertising giant of violating antitrust law in running its mobile app store, a report said citing sources familiar with the matter.

A group of state attorneys general may file a lawsuit against Alphabet Inc's Google as early as next week, accusing the search and advertising giant of violating antitrust law in running its mobile app store, a report said citing sources familiar with the matter. The anticipated lawsuit follows complaints from app developers about Google's management of its Play Store for Android devices, according to a source. The lawsuit has been in the works since last year and has already been delayed, but seems close again, the sources said as per Reuters report. The investigation by the state attorneys general is being led by Utah, Tennessee, North Carolina and New York. It is unclear how many states will participate. Two sources said the case is likely to be filed in federal court in Northern California, where related cases are being heard. These include a lawsuit that video game maker Epic Games Inc filed against Google last year, accusing it of having anticompetitive app store rules. It is expected to go to trial in 2022. There also are two proposed class-action lawsuits over the Play store before the same judge. If the states want to participate in depositions and other pre-trial activities, they would have to file fairly soon, one source said. Apple Inc and Epic are awaiting the verdict in a similar California lawsuit after a trial that ended last month. A Google spokesperson defended their app store as open. "Android is the only major operating system that allows people to download apps from multiple app stores. In fact, most Android devices ship with two or more app stores preinstalled. They can also install additional app stores or apps directly from their browser if they choose," the spokesperson said. Google was originally seen as more open in how it ran its app store than Apple but has tightened rules recently and increased enforcement of those rules. The lawsuit is expected to focus on Google's requirement that some apps use the company's payment tools to sell subscriptions and content and pay Google as much as 30% of sales, according to two sources. App makers like music streaming service Spotify Technology SA and dating services giant Match Group, which owns the Tinder app, have long accused both Google, as well as Apple, of being anti-competitive in demanding mandatory revenue sharing. This latest lawsuit is being planned at a time of unusually vigorous debate over whether federal antitrust enforcement is too lax. Many people, including Senator Amy Klobuchar who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee's antitrust panel, have pressed for tougher enforcement. Google already faces a federal lawsuit brought by the Justice Department last year and related antitrust cases brought by two separate groups of attorneys general. One is led by Texas and focused on advertising while the other targets Google's alleged efforts to extend its dominance in search to newer markets, like voice assistants. (With inputs from agencies)

Google likely to soon face antitrust claims over Play store from US states: Report

1,65,00,572&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and union territories, the Union health ministry said on Saturday.

So far, over 240 million doses have been provided to the states and UTs, it said in a statement. The total consumption, including wastage, stands at 22,65,08,508 doses, according to data available at 8 am on Saturday, the ministry said.

"1,65,00,572&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states/UTs to be administered," it said. So far, 24,30,09,080 vaccine doses have been provided free of cost to the states and UTs by the government of India and through the direct state procurement category, it said.

1,65,00,572 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and union territories, the Union health ministry said on Saturday. So far, over 240 million doses have been provided to the states and UTs, it said in a statement.

1,65,00,572 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and union territories, the Union health ministry said on Saturday. So far, over 240 million doses have been provided to the states and UTs, it said in a statement. The total consumption, including wastage, stands at 22,65,08,508 doses, according to data available at 8 am on Saturday, the ministry said. "1,65,00,572 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states/UTs to be administered," it said. So far, 24,30,09,080 vaccine doses have been provided free of cost to the states and UTs by the government of India and through the direct state procurement category, it said.

States, UTs have 1,65,00,572 COVID-19 vaccine doses: Centre

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country is 19,49,51,603 on Saturday, the Health Ministry said.&nbsp;

In a statement, it said 6,82,398 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose on Saturday, and cumulatively 99,79,676 across 37 states/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive.&nbsp;

Bihar, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have administered more than 10 lakh beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years for their first dose of Covid vaccine, it said.&nbsp;

The ministry said the total of 19,49,51,603 include 97,52,422 Healthcare Workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose and 67,00,147 HCWs, who have taken the second dose.&nbsp;

It also includes 1,49,47,941 Frontline Workers (FLWs) (first dose), 83,22,058 FLWs (second dose), and 99,79,676 for 18-44 years of age group (first dose). 6,06,73,244 for over 45 years old to 60 years old (first dose), 97,84,465 for over 45 years old to 60 years old (second dose), 5,65,49,096 for above 60 years (first dose) and 1,82,42,554 for above 60 years (second dose).&nbsp;

As on Day-127 of the vaccination drive (May 22), a total of 15,52,126 vaccine doses were given. As many as 13,80,232 beneficiaries were vaccinated for first dose and 1,71,894 beneficiaries received their second doses, as per the provisional report till 8 pm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country is 19,49,51,603 on Saturday, the Health Ministry said. In a statement, it said 6,82,398 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose on Saturday, and cumulatively 99,79,676 across 37 states/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country is 19,49,51,603 on Saturday, the Health Ministry said. In a statement, it said 6,82,398 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose on Saturday, and cumulatively 99,79,676 across 37 states/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Bihar, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have administered more than 10 lakh beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years for their first dose of Covid vaccine, it said. The ministry said the total of 19,49,51,603 include 97,52,422 Healthcare Workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose and 67,00,147 HCWs, who have taken the second dose. It also includes 1,49,47,941 Frontline Workers (FLWs) (first dose), 83,22,058 FLWs (second dose), and 99,79,676 for 18-44 years of age group (first dose). 6,06,73,244 for over 45 years old to 60 years old (first dose), 97,84,465 for over 45 years old to 60 years old (second dose), 5,65,49,096 for above 60 years (first dose) and 1,82,42,554 for above 60 years (second dose). As on Day-127 of the vaccination drive (May 22), a total of 15,52,126 vaccine doses were given. As many as 13,80,232 beneficiaries were vaccinated for first dose and 1,71,894 beneficiaries received their second doses, as per the provisional report till 8 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

19,49,51,603 vaccine doses administered till now: Centre 

Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Thursday that the United States was no longer interested in buying Greenland, scuttling for good a quixotic 2019 proposal by the Trump administration to annex the self-governing Danish territory.

“I can confirm that’s correct,” Blinken said during an appearance in Greenland with Danish officials and the premier of Greenland, Mute Egede, in response to a reporter who asked him to “definitively say that the United States does not seek to buy Greenland.” Earlier in the day, the secretary of state toured the territory and met privately with the premier to discuss “bilateral trade and investment.”

Blinken’s brief remarks closed the book on a bizarre episode in U.S. foreign policy. The Wall Street Journal had first reported in August 2019 that President Donald Trump had repeatedly asked aides to pursue a purchase of Greenland, in part to exploit the territory’s abundant natural resources. Trump’s advisers were highly sceptical of the idea but agreed to investigate the matter.

News of Trump’s interest in annexing Greenland quickly became the butt of jokes online while receiving a cold reception both from residents of the semiautonomous territory and among Danish leadership, who took umbrage at the then-president’s suggestion that the territory could be bought as, essentially, “a large real estate deal.”

“Greenland is not for sale,” Mette Frederiksen, the prime minister of Denmark, told a Danish newspaper at the time. “Greenland is not Danish. Greenland belongs to Greenland. I strongly hope that this is not meant seriously.”

Trump, angered at the Danish response to his idea, abruptly cancelled a diplomatic visit to Denmark and described Frederiksen as “nasty,” sparking an international incident.

“All they had to do is say, ‘No, we’d rather not do that or ‘We’d rather not talk about it,’” Trump said to reporters on the day he cancelled the trip. “Don’t say, ‘What an absurd idea that is.’”

Pele Broberg, Greenland’s foreign minister, alluded to the diplomatic rupture during his appearance with Blinken on Thursday.

“We will underscore this is not considered a real estate deal,” Broberg said of talks with U.S. officials, quoting Trump. “Secretary Blinken has made it very clear that he is here for the people living in the Arctic, for the people living in Greenland.”

Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Thursday that the United States was no longer interested in buying Greenland, scuttling for good a quixotic 2019 proposal by the Trump administration to annex the self-governing Danish territory.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Thursday that the United States was no longer interested in buying Greenland, scuttling for good a quixotic 2019 proposal by the Trump administration to annex the self-governing Danish territory. “I can confirm that’s correct,” Blinken said during an appearance in Greenland with Danish officials and the premier of Greenland, Mute Egede, in response to a reporter who asked him to “definitively say that the United States does not seek to buy Greenland.” Earlier in the day, the secretary of state toured the territory and met privately with the premier to discuss “bilateral trade and investment.” Blinken’s brief remarks closed the book on a bizarre episode in U.S. foreign policy. The Wall Street Journal had first reported in August 2019 that President Donald Trump had repeatedly asked aides to pursue a purchase of Greenland, in part to exploit the territory’s abundant natural resources. Trump’s advisers were highly sceptical of the idea but agreed to investigate the matter. News of Trump’s interest in annexing Greenland quickly became the butt of jokes online while receiving a cold reception both from residents of the semiautonomous territory and among Danish leadership, who took umbrage at the then-president’s suggestion that the territory could be bought as, essentially, “a large real estate deal.” “Greenland is not for sale,” Mette Frederiksen, the prime minister of Denmark, told a Danish newspaper at the time. “Greenland is not Danish. Greenland belongs to Greenland. I strongly hope that this is not meant seriously.” Trump, angered at the Danish response to his idea, abruptly cancelled a diplomatic visit to Denmark and described Frederiksen as “nasty,” sparking an international incident. “All they had to do is say, ‘No, we’d rather not do that or ‘We’d rather not talk about it,’” Trump said to reporters on the day he cancelled the trip. “Don’t say, ‘What an absurd idea that is.’” Pele Broberg, Greenland’s foreign minister, alluded to the diplomatic rupture during his appearance with Blinken on Thursday. “We will underscore this is not considered a real estate deal,” Broberg said of talks with U.S. officials, quoting Trump. “Secretary Blinken has made it very clear that he is here for the people living in the Arctic, for the people living in Greenland.”

Secretary of state confirms the US does not want to buy Greenland

Around 1,84,41,478 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and UTs, while 50,95,640 doses are in the pipeline and will be received by them within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. &nbsp;

The Centre has so far provided more than 20,28,09,250 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost, it said. &nbsp;

Of this, the total consumption, calculated based on average up to May 14, including wastages, is 18,43,67,772 doses, according to data available at 7 pm on Saturday. &nbsp;

"More than 1,84,41,478 Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. States with negative balance are showing more consumption (including wastage) than vaccine supplied as they have not reconciled the vaccine they have supplied to Armed Forces," the ministry said. &nbsp;

It said 50,95,640 vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by states and UTs within the next three days.&nbsp;

Vaccination forms an integral component of the comprehensive strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including test, track, treat and Covid appropriate behaviour). &nbsp;

The Centre has been supporting the nationwide vaccination drive by providing Covid vaccines free of cost to states and UTs, in addition to several efforts to ramp up its production and supply, the ministry stated. &nbsp;

Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination has started from May 1 as part of which the government has opened up inoculation for all aged above 18. &nbsp;

Under the Strategy, every month 50 per cent of the total Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) cleared vaccine doses of any manufacturer would be procured by the Centre. It would continue to make these doses available to state governments free of cost as was being done earlier.

Around 1,84,41,478 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and UTs, while 50,95,640 doses are in the pipeline and will be received by them within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

Around 1,84,41,478 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and UTs, while 50,95,640 doses are in the pipeline and will be received by them within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The Centre has so far provided more than 20,28,09,250 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost, it said. Of this, the total consumption, calculated based on average up to May 14, including wastages, is 18,43,67,772 doses, according to data available at 7 pm on Saturday. "More than 1,84,41,478 Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. States with negative balance are showing more consumption (including wastage) than vaccine supplied as they have not reconciled the vaccine they have supplied to Armed Forces," the ministry said. It said 50,95,640 vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by states and UTs within the next three days. Vaccination forms an integral component of the comprehensive strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including test, track, treat and Covid appropriate behaviour). The Centre has been supporting the nationwide vaccination drive by providing Covid vaccines free of cost to states and UTs, in addition to several efforts to ramp up its production and supply, the ministry stated. Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination has started from May 1 as part of which the government has opened up inoculation for all aged above 18. Under the Strategy, every month 50 per cent of the total Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) cleared vaccine doses of any manufacturer would be procured by the Centre. It would continue to make these doses available to state governments free of cost as was being done earlier.

States to receive 50,95,640 COVID-19 vaccine doses in next three days: Centre 

Minister of State for Finance Anurag Singh Thakur on Sunday said the government has provided 175.6 million COVID-19 vaccine doses so far to states and union territories for inoculation of people of all age groups and 4.6 million doses will be supplied to them in the next three days.&nbsp;

Thakur's remarks came in response to senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to use Rs 350 billion allocated in the Union Budget to ensure free vaccine for all citizens instead of the current system of multiple pricing for various users.&nbsp;

Pune-based Serum Institute of India is supplying Covishield to the Centre for Rs 150 a dose while to states for Rs 300 a dose. Private Hospitals are getting it at double the state's price at Rs 600. &nbsp;

Whereas, Covaxin manufacturer Bharat Biotech has priced its vaccine at Rs 150 a dose for the Centre, Rs 600 a dose for state governments and Rs 1,200 a dose for private hospitals.&nbsp;

Both anti-COVID vaccines are administered in two doses. &nbsp;

Calling for free inoculation, leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Kharge in his letter said the Parliament had allocated Rs 350,000 million in the Union budget to ensure free vaccines for all. &nbsp;

He also urged the prime minister to immediately convene an all-party meeting to collectively forge a holistic blueprint to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;

Dispelling claims of vaccine shortage in states, Thakur said 7.2 million doses are still available with states and union territories. &nbsp;

On further supply of vaccines, he said that "0.15 million doses of Sputnik V have already reached India and RDIF has also tied up with local Indian companies for bulk production." &nbsp;

In a series of tweets, the minister highlighted various measures taken by the government to increase supply of medicine and liquid medical oxygen, add more beds and distribute foreign aid to various states to fight the pandemic. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Minister of State for Finance Anurag Singh Thakur on Sunday said the government has provided 175.6 million COVID-19 vaccine doses so far to states and union territories for inoculation of people of all age groups and 4.

Minister of State for Finance Anurag Singh Thakur on Sunday said the government has provided 175.6 million COVID-19 vaccine doses so far to states and union territories for inoculation of people of all age groups and 4.6 million doses will be supplied to them in the next three days. Thakur's remarks came in response to senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to use Rs 350 billion allocated in the Union Budget to ensure free vaccine for all citizens instead of the current system of multiple pricing for various users. Pune-based Serum Institute of India is supplying Covishield to the Centre for Rs 150 a dose while to states for Rs 300 a dose. Private Hospitals are getting it at double the state's price at Rs 600. Whereas, Covaxin manufacturer Bharat Biotech has priced its vaccine at Rs 150 a dose for the Centre, Rs 600 a dose for state governments and Rs 1,200 a dose for private hospitals. Both anti-COVID vaccines are administered in two doses. Calling for free inoculation, leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Kharge in his letter said the Parliament had allocated Rs 350,000 million in the Union budget to ensure free vaccines for all. He also urged the prime minister to immediately convene an all-party meeting to collectively forge a holistic blueprint to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Dispelling claims of vaccine shortage in states, Thakur said 7.2 million doses are still available with states and union territories. On further supply of vaccines, he said that "0.15 million doses of Sputnik V have already reached India and RDIF has also tied up with local Indian companies for bulk production." In a series of tweets, the minister highlighted various measures taken by the government to increase supply of medicine and liquid medical oxygen, add more beds and distribute foreign aid to various states to fight the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

175.6 million free vaccine doses provided to states: MoS Anurag Thakur 

China has urged United Nations member states not to attend an event planned next week by Germany, the United States and Britain on the repression of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in Xinjiang, according to a note seen by Reuters on Friday. &nbsp;

"It is a politically-motivated event," China's UN mission wrote in the note, dated Thursday. "We request your mission NOT to participate in this anti-China event."&nbsp;

China charged that the organisers of the event, which also include several other European states along with Australia and Canada, use "human rights issues as a political tool to interfere in China's internal affairs like Xinjiang, to create division and turbulence and disrupt China's development."&nbsp;

"They are obsessed with provoking confrontation with China," the note said, adding that "the provocative event can only lead to more confrontation." &nbsp;

The Chinese mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

The ambassadors of the United States, Germany and Britain are due to address the virtual UN event on Wednesday, along with Human Rights Watch Executive Director Ken Roth and Amnesty International Secretary General Agnes Callamard.&nbsp;

The aim of the event is to "discuss how the UN system, member states and civil society can support and advocate for the human rights of members of ethnic Turkic communities in Xinjiang," according to an invitation.&nbsp;

Western states and rights groups have accused authorities in Xinjiang of detaining and torturing Uyghurs in camps, which the United States has described as genocide. In January, Washington banned the import of cotton and tomato products from Xinjiang over allegations of forced labour.&nbsp;

Beijing denies the accusations and describes the camps as vocational training centers to combat religious extremism.&nbsp;

"Beijing has been trying for years to bully governments into silence but that strategy has failed miserably, as more and states step forward to voice horror and revulsion at China's crimes against Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims," Human Rights Watch UN director Louis Charbonneau said on Friday.&nbsp;

China has urged United Nations member states not to attend an event planned next week by Germany, the United States and Britain on the repression of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in Xinjiang, according to a note seen by Reuters on Friday.

China has urged United Nations member states not to attend an event planned next week by Germany, the United States and Britain on the repression of Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in Xinjiang, according to a note seen by Reuters on Friday. "It is a politically-motivated event," China's UN mission wrote in the note, dated Thursday. "We request your mission NOT to participate in this anti-China event." China charged that the organisers of the event, which also include several other European states along with Australia and Canada, use "human rights issues as a political tool to interfere in China's internal affairs like Xinjiang, to create division and turbulence and disrupt China's development." "They are obsessed with provoking confrontation with China," the note said, adding that "the provocative event can only lead to more confrontation." The Chinese mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The ambassadors of the United States, Germany and Britain are due to address the virtual UN event on Wednesday, along with Human Rights Watch Executive Director Ken Roth and Amnesty International Secretary General Agnes Callamard. The aim of the event is to "discuss how the UN system, member states and civil society can support and advocate for the human rights of members of ethnic Turkic communities in Xinjiang," according to an invitation. Western states and rights groups have accused authorities in Xinjiang of detaining and torturing Uyghurs in camps, which the United States has described as genocide. In January, Washington banned the import of cotton and tomato products from Xinjiang over allegations of forced labour. Beijing denies the accusations and describes the camps as vocational training centers to combat religious extremism. "Beijing has been trying for years to bully governments into silence but that strategy has failed miserably, as more and states step forward to voice horror and revulsion at China's crimes against Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims," Human Rights Watch UN director Louis Charbonneau said on Friday.

China urges UN states not to attend Xinjiang event next week 

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Government of India has so far provided 16,54,93,410 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost. Of this, the total consumption including wastages is 15,76,32,631 doses.&nbsp;

Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination started on Saturday. Registration for the new eligible population groups has commenced since April 28. Potential beneficiaries can either register directly on CoWIN portal or through the Aarogya Setu app. &nbsp;

"More than 78,60,779 COVID vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered.&nbsp;

"Furthermore, more than 56,20,670 vaccine doses will be received in addition by them within the next three days," the ministry said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The Government of India has so far provided 16,54,93,410 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost. Of this, the total consumption including wastages is 15,76,32,631 doses. Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination started on Saturday. Registration for the new eligible population groups has commenced since April 28. Potential beneficiaries can either register directly on CoWIN portal or through the Aarogya Setu app. "More than 78,60,779 COVID vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. "Furthermore, more than 56,20,670 vaccine doses will be received in addition by them within the next three days," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses still available with states: Centre 

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