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Showing posts with label India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label India. Show all posts

NIGERIAN ARMY EXPLORES MUTUAL COLLABORATION WITH INDIAN MILITARY

NIGERIAN ARMY EXPLORES MUTUAL COLLABORATION WITH INDIAN MILITARY


The Nigerian Army (NA) has expressed its readiness for effective collaboration with her Indian counterpart on capacity development. The bilateral collaboration would be in the areas of military training, health, technology among others. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya made this known when he received in audience, a delegation from Defence Scoping of India at Army Headquarters, today Thursday 16, 2021.


Lieutenant General Yahaya noted that India has enormous potentials that the NA could explore in support of its training and operations. He further stated that Nigeria and India have historical ties that are mutually beneficial. While commending the delegation for the visit, he reiterated

that the collaboration would facilitate information sharing and exchange of experiences in military development.


He noted that the NA could further develop the capacity of its medical personnel and enhance technological capacity in aid of military operations.







The leader of the delegation, Lieutenant General Vinod Khandare (rtd), who is the Military Adviser to National Council of India, stated that he was at Army Headquarters to explore frontiers for effective collaboration between both countries. He assured the COAS of India's desire to continually assist and cooperate with the NA in the areas of training, human capacity development and other viable areas.


The Military Adviser to National Council of India, said the visit would equally enhance the historical ties between the two countries. He added that the envisaged areas of training would sharpen the skills of NA personnel.


Lt Gen Khandare assured that the Government of India will continue to support the NA in providing the necessary skills that would enhance troops' capacity in ongoing military operations.


ONYEMA NWACHUKWU

Brigadier General

Director Army Public Relations

16 September 2021


The Nigerian Army (NA) has expressed its readiness for effective collaboration with her Indian counterpart on capacity development. The bilateral collaboration would be in the areas of military training, health, technology among others. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya made this known when he received in audience, a delegation from Defence Scoping of India at Army Headquarters, today Thursday 16, 2021.


Lieutenant General Yahaya noted that India has enormous potentials that the NA could explore in support of its training and operations. He further stated that Nigeria and India have historical ties that are mutually beneficial. While commending the delegation for the visit, he reiterated

that the collaboration would facilitate information sharing and exchange of experiences in military development.


He noted that the NA could further develop the capacity of its medical personnel and enhance technological capacity in aid of military operations.







The leader of the delegation, Lieutenant General Vinod Khandare (rtd), who is the Military Adviser to National Council of India, stated that he was at Army Headquarters to explore frontiers for effective collaboration between both countries. He assured the COAS of India's desire to continually assist and cooperate with the NA in the areas of training, human capacity development and other viable areas.


The Military Adviser to National Council of India, said the visit would equally enhance the historical ties between the two countries. He added that the envisaged areas of training would sharpen the skills of NA personnel.


Lt Gen Khandare assured that the Government of India will continue to support the NA in providing the necessary skills that would enhance troops' capacity in ongoing military operations.


ONYEMA NWACHUKWU

Brigadier General

Director Army Public Relations

16 September 2021

India, China Set for 7th Round of Military Talks Over Ladakh Border Dispute

India, China Set for 7th Round of Military Talks Over Ladakh Border Dispute





India and China will hold on Monday the seventh round of negotiations between their military commanders for the disengagement of troops along the so-called Line of Actual Control (LAC) that demarcates their territories across the Himalayas in the Ladakh region.

The talks are scheduled to begin at noon local time (06:30 GMT) in the Chushul village on the Chinese side of the LAC.

As reported by Indian media, New Delhi during the talks will seek complete demilitarisation of East Ladakh, proposing that Beijing be the first to reduce the number of troops in the region, withdrawing troops specifically from the northern and southern banks of Lake Pangong.

China, in turn, is reportedly expected to suggest that India withdraw troops first from the southern bank of Pangong.
Since the 1962 war between India and China, the two lack a duly demarcated borderline in the Himalayas. As a consequence, the area has since frequented seeing hassles between the military of both sides.

Following a deadly escalation in the Pangong vicinity in May, India and China boosted their military presence in the disputed region. The latest clash took place in early September, with the sides blaming the initiation of the firing on each other.

India and China have launched consultations on the highest military level to try to settle the long-standing border disagreements. The sixth round of talks took place in late September.


Source: (Sputnik) 






India and China will hold on Monday the seventh round of negotiations between their military commanders for the disengagement of troops along the so-called Line of Actual Control (LAC) that demarcates their territories across the Himalayas in the Ladakh region.

The talks are scheduled to begin at noon local time (06:30 GMT) in the Chushul village on the Chinese side of the LAC.

As reported by Indian media, New Delhi during the talks will seek complete demilitarisation of East Ladakh, proposing that Beijing be the first to reduce the number of troops in the region, withdrawing troops specifically from the northern and southern banks of Lake Pangong.

China, in turn, is reportedly expected to suggest that India withdraw troops first from the southern bank of Pangong.
Since the 1962 war between India and China, the two lack a duly demarcated borderline in the Himalayas. As a consequence, the area has since frequented seeing hassles between the military of both sides.

Following a deadly escalation in the Pangong vicinity in May, India and China boosted their military presence in the disputed region. The latest clash took place in early September, with the sides blaming the initiation of the firing on each other.

India and China have launched consultations on the highest military level to try to settle the long-standing border disagreements. The sixth round of talks took place in late September.


Source: (Sputnik) 


Sputnik: India on high alert as defense chief says China and Pakistan are coordinating against them

Sputnik: India on high alert as defense chief says China and Pakistan are coordinating against them

India’s Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat

India has put its security agencies and forces on high alert after a skirmish with the Chinese military on the evening of August 29th and New Delhi’s claim that Pakistan is allegedly trying to take advantage of the situation to infiltrate the Ladakh region, Sputnik reported.


According to the Sputnik report citing a senior official from the Indian security forces, the Pakistan is capable of taking advantage of the issue going on between India and China. 

“We have taken adequate precautionary measures to ensure that Pakistan does not succeed in their mission to enter the valley. "

"There have been situations where Pakistan has been involved in a proxy war against us (India). It was learnt that the terrorists are trying to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir to carry out attacks as the focus is completely on China”, the official from the Indian security forces told Sputnik.

On Thursday, India’s Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat also stated the Indian troops are well prepared to face a coordinated threat from Pakistan and China as Beijing continues to lend support to Islamabad in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Rawat has warned Pakistan against trying to take advantage, while stating it may suffer heavy losses for any misadventure.

India and China have been involved in several face-offs at multiple junctions across the LAC since May. While following the recent clashes in Chushul, the two sides have been engaged in commander-level talks to advance the settlement of the bilateral border dispute rather than armed provocations aimed at a unilateral change of the status quo.

Source: Sputnik
India’s Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat

India has put its security agencies and forces on high alert after a skirmish with the Chinese military on the evening of August 29th and New Delhi’s claim that Pakistan is allegedly trying to take advantage of the situation to infiltrate the Ladakh region, Sputnik reported.


According to the Sputnik report citing a senior official from the Indian security forces, the Pakistan is capable of taking advantage of the issue going on between India and China. 

“We have taken adequate precautionary measures to ensure that Pakistan does not succeed in their mission to enter the valley. "

"There have been situations where Pakistan has been involved in a proxy war against us (India). It was learnt that the terrorists are trying to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir to carry out attacks as the focus is completely on China”, the official from the Indian security forces told Sputnik.

On Thursday, India’s Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat also stated the Indian troops are well prepared to face a coordinated threat from Pakistan and China as Beijing continues to lend support to Islamabad in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Rawat has warned Pakistan against trying to take advantage, while stating it may suffer heavy losses for any misadventure.

India and China have been involved in several face-offs at multiple junctions across the LAC since May. While following the recent clashes in Chushul, the two sides have been engaged in commander-level talks to advance the settlement of the bilateral border dispute rather than armed provocations aimed at a unilateral change of the status quo.

Source: Sputnik

COVID-19: India reports highest daily Virus death toll

COVID-19: India reports highest daily Virus death toll

In Asia, India reported 1,092 new fatalities from COVID-19 on Wednesday, its highest single-day total, AFP reported.

The country has the fourth-most deaths in the world and the third-most cases, with over 2.7 million — including more than 64,000 new infections reported in the last 24 hours.

According to the report, the actual numbers, like elsewhere in the world, are thought to be far higher due to limited testing. Four of India’s 28 states now account for 63 percent of total fatalities and 54.6 percent of the caseload. The western state of Maharashtra and the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are the country’s worst-hit regions.

Meanwhile, the Indian resort state of Goa is cracking down on travelers throwing illegal, drug-fueled parties as coronavirus cases climb in the tourist hotspot, a government minister said Tuesday.

The coastal region has long been a magnet for backpackers and other travelers drawn to its scenic beaches and easygoing vibe, but the pandemic has meant that large get-togethers are now banned.

Lots of bars and restaurants are also unable to operate after many workers fled the state for their home villages when India imposed a strict lockdown in late March.

The partying has not stopped, however -- including in private villas, stone quarries and at secret locations in the jungle involving thousands of dollars’ worth of drugs, according to local media.

Goa’s Tourism Minister Manohar Azgaonkar warned revelers on Tuesday that the good times are over.

These parties are happening illegally... police are looking into it”, he told AFP.

“We are asking people to be vigilant and if they come to know about any such case, they should inform the police,” he added.

“There are guest houses and villas that are operating illegally,” he said, accusing owners of renting out their homes to visitors without informing the authorities.

In a recent case, police busted an underground rave at a private villa on Saturday, seizing drugs worth 900,000 rupees ($12,000) and arresting 23 people, including foreign nationals, according to a report in the Hindustan Times newspaper.

“All aspects of the party are being investigated. Where did the drugs come from? How did they arrange the party, who arranged it,” said Shobhit Saxena, police narcotics superintendent.

The police have “zero tolerance for such cases and gives priority to public health and safety especially in these times”, he told AFP.

Foreign tourists cannot travel to India but Goa is home to a substantial number of foreign residents including many Russians, Israelis and Britons.


In Asia, India reported 1,092 new fatalities from COVID-19 on Wednesday, its highest single-day total, AFP reported.

The country has the fourth-most deaths in the world and the third-most cases, with over 2.7 million — including more than 64,000 new infections reported in the last 24 hours.

According to the report, the actual numbers, like elsewhere in the world, are thought to be far higher due to limited testing. Four of India’s 28 states now account for 63 percent of total fatalities and 54.6 percent of the caseload. The western state of Maharashtra and the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are the country’s worst-hit regions.

Meanwhile, the Indian resort state of Goa is cracking down on travelers throwing illegal, drug-fueled parties as coronavirus cases climb in the tourist hotspot, a government minister said Tuesday.

The coastal region has long been a magnet for backpackers and other travelers drawn to its scenic beaches and easygoing vibe, but the pandemic has meant that large get-togethers are now banned.

Lots of bars and restaurants are also unable to operate after many workers fled the state for their home villages when India imposed a strict lockdown in late March.

The partying has not stopped, however -- including in private villas, stone quarries and at secret locations in the jungle involving thousands of dollars’ worth of drugs, according to local media.

Goa’s Tourism Minister Manohar Azgaonkar warned revelers on Tuesday that the good times are over.

These parties are happening illegally... police are looking into it”, he told AFP.

“We are asking people to be vigilant and if they come to know about any such case, they should inform the police,” he added.

“There are guest houses and villas that are operating illegally,” he said, accusing owners of renting out their homes to visitors without informing the authorities.

In a recent case, police busted an underground rave at a private villa on Saturday, seizing drugs worth 900,000 rupees ($12,000) and arresting 23 people, including foreign nationals, according to a report in the Hindustan Times newspaper.

“All aspects of the party are being investigated. Where did the drugs come from? How did they arrange the party, who arranged it,” said Shobhit Saxena, police narcotics superintendent.

The police have “zero tolerance for such cases and gives priority to public health and safety especially in these times”, he told AFP.

Foreign tourists cannot travel to India but Goa is home to a substantial number of foreign residents including many Russians, Israelis and Britons.


Indian Modi warns China over border tensions

Indian Modi warns China over border tensions

AFP: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a new warning to China over deadly border tensions on Saturday, using his most important speech of the year to promise to build a stronger military.

With talks on easing a military build-up in their Himalayan border region at a stalemate, Modi told an Independence Day ceremony that India's sovereignty was "supreme" and that relations with neighbours depended on security and trust.

Attendance at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi for the speech was cut by more than half to 4,000 people, all of whom sat two metres (six feet) apart because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Hindu nationalist prime minister mentioned confrontations with Pakistan and China on their disputed borders, but without naming either country.

"Anyone who has cast an eye on the country's sovereignty, the country's army has answered them in their own language," he said.

"India's integrity is supreme for us. What we can do, what our soldiers can do -- everyone saw that in Ladakh," referring to a border clash with Chinese troops in the Ladakh region of the Himalayas on June 15.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the clash, which saw the two sides fighting with batons, stones and bare fists.

China has also acknowledged that it suffered casualties but without giving numbers.

The two sides have blamed each other for the fighting and tens of thousands of Indian and Chinese troops, who also fought a border war in 1962, have since been sent to the region.

Modi has insisted that no land was lost in the battle but military experts have used satellite images to counter that Chinese troops occupy frontier territory that India had claimed for decades.

India has in turn used economic weapons against China. It has banned at least 59 apps, including the major video-sharing platform TikTok, and taken other measures to freeze Chinese firms out of contracts and block its imports.

Modi said that relations with neighbours are now linked to "security, progress and trust".


"A neighbour isn't just someone who shares our geography but those who share our hearts. Where the relationship is respected, it becomes warmer," he said.

The 1.4-million-strong military would be built up, he added.

"India is just as committed to its security and strengthening its army as the attempts it has made for peace and harmony," he said, stressing efforts to make India "self-reliant" in defence production.

Modi also said that his priority was getting India out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

India is expected to pass 50,000 deaths in the coming days and three million cases within a week. It has the fastest-growing caseload in the world and is now only behind Brazil and the United States in terms of total case numbers.

With the economy expected to shrink this year, Modi reaffirmed an election promise to spend 1.3 trillion dollars on 7,000 infrastructure projects "to get us out of the pandemic situation".

bb/tw/jah

AFP: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a new warning to China over deadly border tensions on Saturday, using his most important speech of the year to promise to build a stronger military.

With talks on easing a military build-up in their Himalayan border region at a stalemate, Modi told an Independence Day ceremony that India's sovereignty was "supreme" and that relations with neighbours depended on security and trust.

Attendance at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi for the speech was cut by more than half to 4,000 people, all of whom sat two metres (six feet) apart because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Hindu nationalist prime minister mentioned confrontations with Pakistan and China on their disputed borders, but without naming either country.

"Anyone who has cast an eye on the country's sovereignty, the country's army has answered them in their own language," he said.

"India's integrity is supreme for us. What we can do, what our soldiers can do -- everyone saw that in Ladakh," referring to a border clash with Chinese troops in the Ladakh region of the Himalayas on June 15.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the clash, which saw the two sides fighting with batons, stones and bare fists.

China has also acknowledged that it suffered casualties but without giving numbers.

The two sides have blamed each other for the fighting and tens of thousands of Indian and Chinese troops, who also fought a border war in 1962, have since been sent to the region.

Modi has insisted that no land was lost in the battle but military experts have used satellite images to counter that Chinese troops occupy frontier territory that India had claimed for decades.

India has in turn used economic weapons against China. It has banned at least 59 apps, including the major video-sharing platform TikTok, and taken other measures to freeze Chinese firms out of contracts and block its imports.

Modi said that relations with neighbours are now linked to "security, progress and trust".


"A neighbour isn't just someone who shares our geography but those who share our hearts. Where the relationship is respected, it becomes warmer," he said.

The 1.4-million-strong military would be built up, he added.

"India is just as committed to its security and strengthening its army as the attempts it has made for peace and harmony," he said, stressing efforts to make India "self-reliant" in defence production.

Modi also said that his priority was getting India out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

India is expected to pass 50,000 deaths in the coming days and three million cases within a week. It has the fastest-growing caseload in the world and is now only behind Brazil and the United States in terms of total case numbers.

With the economy expected to shrink this year, Modi reaffirmed an election promise to spend 1.3 trillion dollars on 7,000 infrastructure projects "to get us out of the pandemic situation".

bb/tw/jah

India seeks to counter China sway in Maldives with bridge project

India seeks to counter China sway in Maldives with bridge project

Profile Picture
AFP: India on Thursday pledged $500 million to build bridges and causeways in the Maldives, as New Delhi seeks to counter growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives borrowed billions of dollars from Beijing and hired Chinese firms for infrastructure projects under previous President Abdulla Yameen.

This stoked concerns in India and the West that China was saddling countries in Asia and beyond with unsustainable debts while expanding its sphere of influence.

Under the new Maldives government, India has sought to regain influence in the archipelago nation of 340,000 people and 1,192 islands located on major East-West shipping lanes.

The new investment announced takes India's total pledged outlay to over $2 billion since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came to power, India's foreign ministry said.

Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said the new money was part of a financial package to build bridges and causeways linking the capital Male to three neighbouring islets.

"Once completed, the project will be the single largest infrastructure project in the Maldives," Shahid said in a statement.

In total, they will also be more than three times longer than the $200-million "China-Maldives Friendship Bridge" completed under Yameen with Chinese loans which has since been re-named.

It was not clear how long the new project would take.

Shahid also said his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in their talks Thursday had pledged $250 million to meet urgent needs and support efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The virus has infected over 5,300 people and claimed 21 lives in the Maldives, where its crucial tourism industry took a battering.

"There has been a reset in our relations," an Indian diplomat said after the bilateral talks via video conference.

"In the last one-and-a-half years, President Solih and his government have acted on its 'India First' policy in right earnest. In line with its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, India has worked proactively to deepen its ties with the Maldives."

aj/stu/je

Profile Picture
AFP: India on Thursday pledged $500 million to build bridges and causeways in the Maldives, as New Delhi seeks to counter growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives borrowed billions of dollars from Beijing and hired Chinese firms for infrastructure projects under previous President Abdulla Yameen.

This stoked concerns in India and the West that China was saddling countries in Asia and beyond with unsustainable debts while expanding its sphere of influence.

Under the new Maldives government, India has sought to regain influence in the archipelago nation of 340,000 people and 1,192 islands located on major East-West shipping lanes.

The new investment announced takes India's total pledged outlay to over $2 billion since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came to power, India's foreign ministry said.

Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said the new money was part of a financial package to build bridges and causeways linking the capital Male to three neighbouring islets.

"Once completed, the project will be the single largest infrastructure project in the Maldives," Shahid said in a statement.

In total, they will also be more than three times longer than the $200-million "China-Maldives Friendship Bridge" completed under Yameen with Chinese loans which has since been re-named.

It was not clear how long the new project would take.

Shahid also said his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in their talks Thursday had pledged $250 million to meet urgent needs and support efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The virus has infected over 5,300 people and claimed 21 lives in the Maldives, where its crucial tourism industry took a battering.

"There has been a reset in our relations," an Indian diplomat said after the bilateral talks via video conference.

"In the last one-and-a-half years, President Solih and his government have acted on its 'India First' policy in right earnest. In line with its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, India has worked proactively to deepen its ties with the Maldives."

aj/stu/je

Deadly lightning strikes plaguing India claim over 147 lives in 10 days, situation expected to worsen

Deadly lightning strikes plaguing India claim over 147 lives in 10 days, situation expected to worsen

More than 147 people have been reportedly killed by deadly lightning strikes in India's northeastern state of Bihar in the past 10 days, according to RT.

The severe monsoon weather intensifying and exposing farmers to fatal bolts from the blue. Authorities reportedly recorded some 26 lightning-related deaths last Thursday, followed by 15 on Friday, and 21 on Saturday. 

A further 40 people have been injured as weather conditions favourable for farming prove to be a deadly, double-edged sword for local communities. 

At least 253 more people have lost their lives to lightning strikes and 49 have been injured in the past one and half months with 90% of the deaths recorded in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, according to data from the National Disaster Management Authority.

The death toll from lightning strikes in the area since the beginning of March has climbed to over 215 people. More extreme bouts of lightning are expected in the coming days, the Indian Meteorological Department has warned.

This year's lightning strike death toll so far has already greatly surpassed previous years, as roughly 170 people were killed by lightning strikes in Bihar in 2019 during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September.

State authorities developed and released a smartphone app that helps predict periods of increased lightning strikes, thereby warning the local populace. However, as Bihar is the country's poorest state, many farmers and laborers do not own smartphones.

“Because of good rainfall this year in June, farmers are out in the field farming. Paddy field water also attracts electricity and farmers on the field act as conductors of electricity from the thunderstorm,” explained Sunitha Devi, member of the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ thunderstorm working group.

Bihar agrometeorologist Abdus Sattar said the increased strikes were caused by large-scale instability in the atmosphere prompted by increased moisture in the air courtesy of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD).

The IOD is a natural phenomenon, also known as the Indian Niño, in which sea surface temperatures shift greatly in the eastern and western parts of the ocean, with dramatic impacts on weather. Events such as the Australian drought and subsequent bushfires earlier in 2020, the Jakarta floods, and even the massive infestation of locusts across east Africa and the Indian subcontinent have all been exacerbated by the IOD.
More than 147 people have been reportedly killed by deadly lightning strikes in India's northeastern state of Bihar in the past 10 days, according to RT.

The severe monsoon weather intensifying and exposing farmers to fatal bolts from the blue. Authorities reportedly recorded some 26 lightning-related deaths last Thursday, followed by 15 on Friday, and 21 on Saturday. 

A further 40 people have been injured as weather conditions favourable for farming prove to be a deadly, double-edged sword for local communities. 

At least 253 more people have lost their lives to lightning strikes and 49 have been injured in the past one and half months with 90% of the deaths recorded in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, according to data from the National Disaster Management Authority.

The death toll from lightning strikes in the area since the beginning of March has climbed to over 215 people. More extreme bouts of lightning are expected in the coming days, the Indian Meteorological Department has warned.

This year's lightning strike death toll so far has already greatly surpassed previous years, as roughly 170 people were killed by lightning strikes in Bihar in 2019 during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September.

State authorities developed and released a smartphone app that helps predict periods of increased lightning strikes, thereby warning the local populace. However, as Bihar is the country's poorest state, many farmers and laborers do not own smartphones.

“Because of good rainfall this year in June, farmers are out in the field farming. Paddy field water also attracts electricity and farmers on the field act as conductors of electricity from the thunderstorm,” explained Sunitha Devi, member of the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ thunderstorm working group.

Bihar agrometeorologist Abdus Sattar said the increased strikes were caused by large-scale instability in the atmosphere prompted by increased moisture in the air courtesy of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD).

The IOD is a natural phenomenon, also known as the Indian Niño, in which sea surface temperatures shift greatly in the eastern and western parts of the ocean, with dramatic impacts on weather. Events such as the Australian drought and subsequent bushfires earlier in 2020, the Jakarta floods, and even the massive infestation of locusts across east Africa and the Indian subcontinent have all been exacerbated by the IOD.

WHO halts hydroxychloroquine, HIV drugs in COVID trials

WHO halts hydroxychloroquine, HIV drugs in COVID trials

Coronavirus cases keep rising in Eurasia 
WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases


The WHO said that it was discontinuing its trials of the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine and combination HIV drug lopinavir/ritonavir in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 after they failed to reduce mortality.

"These interim trial results show that hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir produce little or no reduction in the mortality of hospitalised COVID-19 patients when compared to standard of care. Solidarity trial investigators will interrupt the trials with immediate effect," the WHO said in a statement, referring to large multi-country trials that the agency is leading.

The UN agency said that the decision, taken on the recommendation of the trial's international steering committee, does not affect other studies where the drugs are used for non-hospitalised patients or as a prophylaxis.


In Azerbaijan, health officials reported that the total number of cases to date rose to 19,801 with 534 new additions in the past 24 hours.

The tally of recoveries neared 11,300 and the death toll climbed to 241.

Health authorities in Belarus announced that they observed 273 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to over 63,000. While more than 50,000 people have recovered in the country, fatalities totalled 418.

As for Moldova, officials stated that official cases topped 17,650 with 227 new additions in the last 24 hours. 

The death toll stands at 580 in the country, where more than 2,500 health personnel have contracted the virus.

The WHO has reported a record increase in global coronavirus cases, with the total rising by 212,326 in 24 hours.

The biggest increases were from the United States, Brazil and India. The previous WHO record for new cases was 189,077 on June 28.

Deaths remained steady at about 5,000 a day.

Coronavirus cases keep rising in Eurasia 
WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases


The WHO said that it was discontinuing its trials of the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine and combination HIV drug lopinavir/ritonavir in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 after they failed to reduce mortality.

"These interim trial results show that hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir produce little or no reduction in the mortality of hospitalised COVID-19 patients when compared to standard of care. Solidarity trial investigators will interrupt the trials with immediate effect," the WHO said in a statement, referring to large multi-country trials that the agency is leading.

The UN agency said that the decision, taken on the recommendation of the trial's international steering committee, does not affect other studies where the drugs are used for non-hospitalised patients or as a prophylaxis.


In Azerbaijan, health officials reported that the total number of cases to date rose to 19,801 with 534 new additions in the past 24 hours.

The tally of recoveries neared 11,300 and the death toll climbed to 241.

Health authorities in Belarus announced that they observed 273 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to over 63,000. While more than 50,000 people have recovered in the country, fatalities totalled 418.

As for Moldova, officials stated that official cases topped 17,650 with 227 new additions in the last 24 hours. 

The death toll stands at 580 in the country, where more than 2,500 health personnel have contracted the virus.

The WHO has reported a record increase in global coronavirus cases, with the total rising by 212,326 in 24 hours.

The biggest increases were from the United States, Brazil and India. The previous WHO record for new cases was 189,077 on June 28.

Deaths remained steady at about 5,000 a day.

China responds to Indian Prime Minister’s visit to disputed border

China responds to Indian Prime Minister’s visit to disputed border

Responding to the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the border area between the two countries, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that no party should participate in measures leading to an escalation of tension.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stressed on Friday that China and India should work to enhance coordination to support peace in their border region.


Modi visited today the Ladakh region in the northern Himalayas after weeks of tension between the Indian and Chinese forces over the disputed borders there, which led to deadly clashes between the two countries.

The media released photos of Modi in military uniform while meeting with army chiefs in the border area.

India and China shared the blame for the clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15, when 20 Indian soldiers were killed and at least 76 others were injured.

While China has not disclosed the number of losses inflicted on its troops, the Indian Prime Minister is under pressure to respond to what India considers Chinese incursions.



Source: RT
Responding to the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the border area between the two countries, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that no party should participate in measures leading to an escalation of tension.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stressed on Friday that China and India should work to enhance coordination to support peace in their border region.


Modi visited today the Ladakh region in the northern Himalayas after weeks of tension between the Indian and Chinese forces over the disputed borders there, which led to deadly clashes between the two countries.

The media released photos of Modi in military uniform while meeting with army chiefs in the border area.

India and China shared the blame for the clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15, when 20 Indian soldiers were killed and at least 76 others were injured.

While China has not disclosed the number of losses inflicted on its troops, the Indian Prime Minister is under pressure to respond to what India considers Chinese incursions.



Source: RT

India deployed a quick-reaction air defense system to the Ladakh region along disputed border with China

India deployed a quick-reaction air defense system to the Ladakh region along disputed border with China

India in the past week has deployed a quick-reaction air defense system to the Ladakh region, as both super powers continue to beef up their forces along the disputed border. 

Tensions between the two Asian countries are at a decade-long-high following a number of deadly clashes along the disputed border region that separates both countries.

The Indian armed forces  deployed their advanced very quick-reaction surface-to-air missile defence systems in the Eastern Ladakh sector amid heightened Chinese fighter aircraft and helicopter activities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
According to ANI report, government sources said: “As part of the ongoing build-up in the sector, the air defense systems of both Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the sector to prevent any misadventure by the Chinese Air Force fighter jets or the People’s Liberation Army choppers there.”

Also Sputnik News reports citing sources from the Indian government confirmed that the situation remains tense along the Line of Actual Control, as they have deployed their Sukhoi-30 fighter jets and strategic bombers to the area to protect their territories.

On June 15th, the Indian and Chinese troops clashed near Galwan Lake, resulting in one of the deadliest border battles in years with the Indian Ministry of Defense reporting 20 casualties and 76 injuries, while the Chinese side did not report their casualty toll.

India in the past week has deployed a quick-reaction air defense system to the Ladakh region, as both super powers continue to beef up their forces along the disputed border. 

Tensions between the two Asian countries are at a decade-long-high following a number of deadly clashes along the disputed border region that separates both countries.

The Indian armed forces  deployed their advanced very quick-reaction surface-to-air missile defence systems in the Eastern Ladakh sector amid heightened Chinese fighter aircraft and helicopter activities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
According to ANI report, government sources said: “As part of the ongoing build-up in the sector, the air defense systems of both Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the sector to prevent any misadventure by the Chinese Air Force fighter jets or the People’s Liberation Army choppers there.”

Also Sputnik News reports citing sources from the Indian government confirmed that the situation remains tense along the Line of Actual Control, as they have deployed their Sukhoi-30 fighter jets and strategic bombers to the area to protect their territories.

On June 15th, the Indian and Chinese troops clashed near Galwan Lake, resulting in one of the deadliest border battles in years with the Indian Ministry of Defense reporting 20 casualties and 76 injuries, while the Chinese side did not report their casualty toll.

Himalayan border Clashes: China, India agreed to reduce tensions

Himalayan border Clashes: China, India agreed to reduce tensions

The two Asian Giants, China and India have agreed to reduce tensions a week after clashes on their disputed Himalayan border left 20 Indian troops dead in brutal hand-to-hand fighting, AFP reported.

The latest confrontation has been recorded as the deadliest in 45 years. After talks between the top regional military commanders held on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said both sides "agreed to take necessary measures to promote a cooling of the situation".

"The holding of this meeting shows that both sides want to deal with their disagreement, manage the situation and de-escalate the situation through dialogue and consultations," Zhao told a news conference on Tuesday.

The two sides "exchanged frank and in-depth views" and "agreed to maintain dialogue and jointly committed to promoting peace and tranquillity in the border areas", Zhao added.

Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in a standoff since early May at several points in the Galwan Valley, a disputed Himalayan area along the 3,500-km (2,200-mile) Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between the world's two most populous countries, most of which remains undemarcated.

Indian media reports, quoting sources in the Indian army, also said the two nations held hours-long talks on Monday and reached at a "mutual consensus to disengage" along the LAC.





"Corps Commander level talks between India-China yesterday were held at Moldo in cordial, positive and constructive atmosphere," the statement said, according to the ANI news agency.

"There was mutual consensus to disengage. Modalities for disengagement from all friction areas in Eastern Ladakh were discussed and will be taken forward by both sides."

The Press Trust of India said the meeting was between Lieutenant General Harinder Singh, commander of the 14 Corps, and Major General Liu Lin, commander of the Tibet Military District.

China has yet to officially declare its casualties in the combat. Global Times earlier said there had been Chinese casualties, but did not elaborate.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian described recent media reports of 40 Chinese casualties in the conflict as "fake news".

An Indian government minister had said on Sunday that China lost at least 40 soldiers in the clash.

The call to ease India-China tensions came as Indian, Chinese and Russian foreign ministers hold a virtual meeting on Tuesday.
The two Asian Giants, China and India have agreed to reduce tensions a week after clashes on their disputed Himalayan border left 20 Indian troops dead in brutal hand-to-hand fighting, AFP reported.

The latest confrontation has been recorded as the deadliest in 45 years. After talks between the top regional military commanders held on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said both sides "agreed to take necessary measures to promote a cooling of the situation".

"The holding of this meeting shows that both sides want to deal with their disagreement, manage the situation and de-escalate the situation through dialogue and consultations," Zhao told a news conference on Tuesday.

The two sides "exchanged frank and in-depth views" and "agreed to maintain dialogue and jointly committed to promoting peace and tranquillity in the border areas", Zhao added.

Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in a standoff since early May at several points in the Galwan Valley, a disputed Himalayan area along the 3,500-km (2,200-mile) Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between the world's two most populous countries, most of which remains undemarcated.

Indian media reports, quoting sources in the Indian army, also said the two nations held hours-long talks on Monday and reached at a "mutual consensus to disengage" along the LAC.





"Corps Commander level talks between India-China yesterday were held at Moldo in cordial, positive and constructive atmosphere," the statement said, according to the ANI news agency.

"There was mutual consensus to disengage. Modalities for disengagement from all friction areas in Eastern Ladakh were discussed and will be taken forward by both sides."

The Press Trust of India said the meeting was between Lieutenant General Harinder Singh, commander of the 14 Corps, and Major General Liu Lin, commander of the Tibet Military District.

China has yet to officially declare its casualties in the combat. Global Times earlier said there had been Chinese casualties, but did not elaborate.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian described recent media reports of 40 Chinese casualties in the conflict as "fake news".

An Indian government minister had said on Sunday that China lost at least 40 soldiers in the clash.

The call to ease India-China tensions came as Indian, Chinese and Russian foreign ministers hold a virtual meeting on Tuesday.

Video: Indian army deploys troops to disputed border after battle with Chinese military

Video: Indian army deploys troops to disputed border after battle with Chinese military

The Indian army mass deployed troops to the Ladakh region this week after one of the deadliest battles with the Chinese military since the 1967 conflict. 

 According to RT Video posted on Wednesday, the Indian army deployed these troops to the Ladakh region amid a large-scale military exercise by the Chinese forces near the disputed border.

 A large number of Indian troops heading to the Ladakh region, despite claims by both Beijing and New Delhi about deescalating the tensions along the border.
 

 On Monday, the Indian and Chinese armies clashed along the disputed border region, resulting in several casualties, including 20 killed on the Indian side. The Chinese Ministry of Defense has yet to confirm their losses; however, the New Delhi-based Ani News Agency alleged that more than 40 Chinese soldiers were killed.
The Indian army mass deployed troops to the Ladakh region this week after one of the deadliest battles with the Chinese military since the 1967 conflict. 

 According to RT Video posted on Wednesday, the Indian army deployed these troops to the Ladakh region amid a large-scale military exercise by the Chinese forces near the disputed border.

 A large number of Indian troops heading to the Ladakh region, despite claims by both Beijing and New Delhi about deescalating the tensions along the border.
 

 On Monday, the Indian and Chinese armies clashed along the disputed border region, resulting in several casualties, including 20 killed on the Indian side. The Chinese Ministry of Defense has yet to confirm their losses; however, the New Delhi-based Ani News Agency alleged that more than 40 Chinese soldiers were killed.

US hopes for 'peaceful resolution' after India-China clash

US hopes for 'peaceful resolution' after India-China clash

Border clashes broke out because Chinese soldiers pushed Indian troops: New Delhi

Border clashes broke out because Chinese soldiers pushed Indian troops: New Delhi

Over the last two days, troops from India and China have been involved in several stand-offs leaving soldiers injured on both sides. 

According to the Indian defence ministry, the first clash took place near Naku La in North Sikkim while the second one took place Nallah in Ladakh.

Reacting to the consecutive clashes, the Chinese foreign ministry on Monday claimed that their troops remained committed to upholding peace and stability in the border region. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the two Asian giants should manage and handle their differences.

“As to the China-India border issue, our position is clear and consistent. Our troops there are committed to uphold peace and stability. This serves the common interests of our two countries and two peoples. We hope India will work with China to uphold peace and tranquillity in the border regions with concrete actions,” Lijian said.

However, sources in the Indian defence ministry claimed that the physical altercation erupted after the Chinese pushed Indian soldiers aggressively near the the Pangong Tso lake.

The Indian side said that the issue was resolved at the local commander level. India and China have been involved in several face-offs over the years as the 2,400 mile boundary between the two countries is loosely marked.

“The short and temporary face offs are resolved as per the established protocols at the local level between the troops,” the official said.

As per the government data, Chinese troops have transgressed into Indian Territory as many as 752 times in the last two years.

In North Sikkim where the two sides were involved in a scuffle, the Indian Armed forces have lost two helicopters since 7 May, which indicates increased movement by Indian side as well.

In the Ladakh sector, defence sources confirmed that two Chinese helicopters also arrived on their side of the Line of Actual Control after an Indian helicopter visited near Pangong Tso lake on 5 May.

In 2017, troops from both countries were involved in a two- and-a-half month long standoff after the Indian army objected to road construction by the Chinese in Doklam region, a tri-junction at the border that separates India, Bhutan, and China.

A stalemate in relations was created and the situation normalised only after both sides agreed to disengage in August 2018.

Border standoffs between Indian and Chinese troops occur at regular intervals at different parts along the Line of Actual Control between the two nations, a loosely demarcated line between India and China.



Source: Sputnik
Over the last two days, troops from India and China have been involved in several stand-offs leaving soldiers injured on both sides. 

According to the Indian defence ministry, the first clash took place near Naku La in North Sikkim while the second one took place Nallah in Ladakh.

Reacting to the consecutive clashes, the Chinese foreign ministry on Monday claimed that their troops remained committed to upholding peace and stability in the border region. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the two Asian giants should manage and handle their differences.

“As to the China-India border issue, our position is clear and consistent. Our troops there are committed to uphold peace and stability. This serves the common interests of our two countries and two peoples. We hope India will work with China to uphold peace and tranquillity in the border regions with concrete actions,” Lijian said.

However, sources in the Indian defence ministry claimed that the physical altercation erupted after the Chinese pushed Indian soldiers aggressively near the the Pangong Tso lake.

The Indian side said that the issue was resolved at the local commander level. India and China have been involved in several face-offs over the years as the 2,400 mile boundary between the two countries is loosely marked.

“The short and temporary face offs are resolved as per the established protocols at the local level between the troops,” the official said.

As per the government data, Chinese troops have transgressed into Indian Territory as many as 752 times in the last two years.

In North Sikkim where the two sides were involved in a scuffle, the Indian Armed forces have lost two helicopters since 7 May, which indicates increased movement by Indian side as well.

In the Ladakh sector, defence sources confirmed that two Chinese helicopters also arrived on their side of the Line of Actual Control after an Indian helicopter visited near Pangong Tso lake on 5 May.

In 2017, troops from both countries were involved in a two- and-a-half month long standoff after the Indian army objected to road construction by the Chinese in Doklam region, a tri-junction at the border that separates India, Bhutan, and China.

A stalemate in relations was created and the situation normalised only after both sides agreed to disengage in August 2018.

Border standoffs between Indian and Chinese troops occur at regular intervals at different parts along the Line of Actual Control between the two nations, a loosely demarcated line between India and China.



Source: Sputnik

How Indian and Chinese forces involved in fierce clashes along border region

How Indian and Chinese forces involved in fierce clashes along border region

The Indian Armed Forces launched an attack against the Chinese border guards this past weekend, injuring a number of military personnel in the process. According to a number of reports, the Indian Armed Forces launched their attack at the Naku La Pass in the Sikkim region, prompting the Chinese border guards to respond with a missile strike of their own.


According to the Times of India, at least 150 troops were involved in this fierce standoff between the two military powers. The Chinese military reportedly sustained seven casualties, while the Indian forces suffered four, along with the destruction of one of its vehicles.

This is the first standoff between the Chinese and Indian armed forces since 2017. The 2017 standoff between the Indian and Chinese forces lasted 73 days.

“Given the presence of nuclear weapons in arsenal of both China and India,” the Russian publication Avia.Pro said, “a full-blown military conflict could well have flared up, which was largely avoided thanks to emergency negotiations, although the reasons why the Indian military invaded China-controlled territory and began to attack the Chinese military are still unknown.”

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line-of-Control, the de-facto border between the two most populated countries in the world.

The dispute is over China’s control of Arunachal Pradesh, which India contests is their territory.
The Indian Armed Forces launched an attack against the Chinese border guards this past weekend, injuring a number of military personnel in the process. According to a number of reports, the Indian Armed Forces launched their attack at the Naku La Pass in the Sikkim region, prompting the Chinese border guards to respond with a missile strike of their own.


According to the Times of India, at least 150 troops were involved in this fierce standoff between the two military powers. The Chinese military reportedly sustained seven casualties, while the Indian forces suffered four, along with the destruction of one of its vehicles.

This is the first standoff between the Chinese and Indian armed forces since 2017. The 2017 standoff between the Indian and Chinese forces lasted 73 days.

“Given the presence of nuclear weapons in arsenal of both China and India,” the Russian publication Avia.Pro said, “a full-blown military conflict could well have flared up, which was largely avoided thanks to emergency negotiations, although the reasons why the Indian military invaded China-controlled territory and began to attack the Chinese military are still unknown.”

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line-of-Control, the de-facto border between the two most populated countries in the world.

The dispute is over China’s control of Arunachal Pradesh, which India contests is their territory.

India eases Covid-19 lockdown, allowing some shops to reopen on limited basis as Modi preaches virtues of ‘self-reliance’

India eases Covid-19 lockdown, allowing some shops to reopen on limited basis as Modi preaches virtues of ‘self-reliance’

New Delhi has given the green light for small shops across India to open their doors under certain conditions, as the country begins to relax far-reaching lockdown measures brought to stop the spread of Covid-19.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order late on Friday night granting permission to “non-essential” shop owners to get back to work starting on Saturday, asking only that they continue to abide by social distancing guidelines and don masks and gloves in public to limit transmission of the lethal virus.

“All registered shops under the Shops and Establishment Act ...including shops in residential complexes, neighborhoods and standalone shops [are] exempted from lockdown restrictions,” the ministry said in its order, adding that businesses must allow only half of their employees to return to work, and that the relaxed rules would not apply in “hotspots” or “containment zones” hit especially hard by Covid-19.


Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs
✔@PIBHomeAffairs
#COVID19 update
All registered shops regd under Shops & Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood & standalone shops exempted from #lockdown restrictions.

Prohibited: Shops in single & multi brand malls



Malls and shopping complexes remain closed, however, presumably due to the greater infection risk associated with larger numbers of people gathering in one enclosed space.

The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the country’s lockdown earlier this month, arguing the measures were working but had not yet halted the outbreak and setting a new expiration date for early May. The PM did note that the restrictions could be eased in some areas after showing a declining infection rate, and with the Health Ministry reporting that 15 districts across the country had not confirmed a single new case over the last 28 days, some regions appear to have met that criteria.

As India seems to be faring rather well in comparison to other densely populated nations in terms of stopping the spread of the deadly disease, Modi has argued that the most important lesson India has learned from the crisis is that it must always rely only on its own people and resources.


[The pandemic] has taught us that we have to be self-reliant and self-sufficient. It has taught us that we should not look for solutions outside the country. This is the biggest lesson we have learned.

India has confirmed 24,447 coronavirus infections – 1,752 on Friday alone – and 780 deaths in its epidemic, according to data gathered by Johns Hopkins University, with Maharashtra continuing to be the worst-hit state, counting some 6,817 cases. According to government statistics, the country’s mortality rate hovers somewhere around 3 percent, below the world average, while health officials say India could flatten its ‘curve’ of new cases by May 3, the day its lockdown is set to lift.



Source
New Delhi has given the green light for small shops across India to open their doors under certain conditions, as the country begins to relax far-reaching lockdown measures brought to stop the spread of Covid-19.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order late on Friday night granting permission to “non-essential” shop owners to get back to work starting on Saturday, asking only that they continue to abide by social distancing guidelines and don masks and gloves in public to limit transmission of the lethal virus.

“All registered shops under the Shops and Establishment Act ...including shops in residential complexes, neighborhoods and standalone shops [are] exempted from lockdown restrictions,” the ministry said in its order, adding that businesses must allow only half of their employees to return to work, and that the relaxed rules would not apply in “hotspots” or “containment zones” hit especially hard by Covid-19.


Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs
✔@PIBHomeAffairs
#COVID19 update
All registered shops regd under Shops & Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood & standalone shops exempted from #lockdown restrictions.

Prohibited: Shops in single & multi brand malls



Malls and shopping complexes remain closed, however, presumably due to the greater infection risk associated with larger numbers of people gathering in one enclosed space.

The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the country’s lockdown earlier this month, arguing the measures were working but had not yet halted the outbreak and setting a new expiration date for early May. The PM did note that the restrictions could be eased in some areas after showing a declining infection rate, and with the Health Ministry reporting that 15 districts across the country had not confirmed a single new case over the last 28 days, some regions appear to have met that criteria.

As India seems to be faring rather well in comparison to other densely populated nations in terms of stopping the spread of the deadly disease, Modi has argued that the most important lesson India has learned from the crisis is that it must always rely only on its own people and resources.


[The pandemic] has taught us that we have to be self-reliant and self-sufficient. It has taught us that we should not look for solutions outside the country. This is the biggest lesson we have learned.

India has confirmed 24,447 coronavirus infections – 1,752 on Friday alone – and 780 deaths in its epidemic, according to data gathered by Johns Hopkins University, with Maharashtra continuing to be the worst-hit state, counting some 6,817 cases. According to government statistics, the country’s mortality rate hovers somewhere around 3 percent, below the world average, while health officials say India could flatten its ‘curve’ of new cases by May 3, the day its lockdown is set to lift.



Source

COVID-19 lockdown: 'CATastrophe' averted as India court rules in favour of owner of three Cats

COVID-19 lockdown: 'CATastrophe' averted as India court rules in favour of owner of three Cats

A court in India's Kerala state said Tuesday it wanted to avoid "a CATastrophe" by allowing a man to break a coronavirus lockdown to buy food for his furry felines.
The pun was included in a ruling by Kerala's High Court on a petition brought by N. Prakash, a Kochi-based owner of three cats, who said he was denied a pass by police to leave his home.

Prakash told the court he was a vegetarian and the cats, as carnivores, couldn't do without a special brand of biscuits.

The lockdown was imposed from March 25 for 21 days, with residents permitted to leave their homes only for essential services such as buying groceries and medicine.

Citing India's animal protection laws and the government's inclusion of animal feed as essential items permitted under the lockdown, the judges ruled in favour of Prakash and said he should be allowed to buy the biscuits.

"We have been called upon to respond to the desperate purrs of three felines," Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar wrote in his judgement.

"We might observe, in a lighter vein, that while we are happy to have come to the aid of the felines in this case, we are also certain that our directions will help avert a 'CATastrophe' in the petitioner's home."


A court in India's Kerala state said Tuesday it wanted to avoid "a CATastrophe" by allowing a man to break a coronavirus lockdown to buy food for his furry felines.
The pun was included in a ruling by Kerala's High Court on a petition brought by N. Prakash, a Kochi-based owner of three cats, who said he was denied a pass by police to leave his home.

Prakash told the court he was a vegetarian and the cats, as carnivores, couldn't do without a special brand of biscuits.

The lockdown was imposed from March 25 for 21 days, with residents permitted to leave their homes only for essential services such as buying groceries and medicine.

Citing India's animal protection laws and the government's inclusion of animal feed as essential items permitted under the lockdown, the judges ruled in favour of Prakash and said he should be allowed to buy the biscuits.

"We have been called upon to respond to the desperate purrs of three felines," Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar wrote in his judgement.

"We might observe, in a lighter vein, that while we are happy to have come to the aid of the felines in this case, we are also certain that our directions will help avert a 'CATastrophe' in the petitioner's home."


Indian Army decides to purchase 400 more T-90S battle tanks — Russian military official

Indian Army decides to purchase 400 more T-90S battle tanks — Russian military official

The Indian Army made a decision for an additional purchase of 400 Russian T-90S battle tanks, which India is already manufacturing under a license, Head of Russia’s Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation Dmitry Shugayev said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV channel on Monday, Tass reported.

"The Indian armed forces made a decision to increase the purchase of T-90S tanks, which they are already producing under a license agreement," Shugayev stated.

"Last year, we signed an additional license agreement to extend the previous license deal until 2028, for 400 more tanks," he added.

The T-90S Bhishma is the main battle tank for the Indian Army. According to the Military Balance 2019 handbook published by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), over 1,025 T-90S tanks are operational in the Indian Army at present.

T-90S Tanks

The T-90S is the export version of the T-90 main battle tank. It features powerful armament, a modern fire control system, reliable armor protection and high maneuverability. The T-90S is designated to fight tanks, self-propelled guns and other armored targets any time of day or night in various climatic conditions.
The Indian Army made a decision for an additional purchase of 400 Russian T-90S battle tanks, which India is already manufacturing under a license, Head of Russia’s Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation Dmitry Shugayev said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 TV channel on Monday, Tass reported.

"The Indian armed forces made a decision to increase the purchase of T-90S tanks, which they are already producing under a license agreement," Shugayev stated.

"Last year, we signed an additional license agreement to extend the previous license deal until 2028, for 400 more tanks," he added.

The T-90S Bhishma is the main battle tank for the Indian Army. According to the Military Balance 2019 handbook published by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), over 1,025 T-90S tanks are operational in the Indian Army at present.

T-90S Tanks

The T-90S is the export version of the T-90 main battle tank. It features powerful armament, a modern fire control system, reliable armor protection and high maneuverability. The T-90S is designated to fight tanks, self-propelled guns and other armored targets any time of day or night in various climatic conditions.

India likely to buy additional batch of Russian MiG-29 fighter jets — official

India likely to buy additional batch of Russian MiG-29 fighter jets — official

Many countries opt for Russian combat equipment despite sanctions — official


TASS: India is very much likely to buy an extra batch of Russian MiG-29 fighter jets, chief of Russia’s Federal Service for Military Technical Cooperation Dmitry Shugayev said on Monday.

"There is a high probability that we will have an additional order for MiG-29 fighter jets," he said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel.

India currently has more than 60 MiG-29 aircarft.

According to Shugayev, Russia has good chances to take part in India’s tender for the purchase of 110 fighter jets that is to be announced soon. It was reported earlier that the Russian side planned to take part in this tender with its MiG-35 fighter jets.

Aside India, many foreign countries choose to buy Russian combat equipment despite the sanction risks, Shugayev said on Monday.

During the interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel, Shugayev said, "Russia as a reliable partner is in priority with many countries. Some countries and concrete persons are running real risks opting to buy our equipment. We value such partners because they prefer us."

According to Shugayev, Russia’s foreign partners are guided by their own interests and choose Russian combat equipment "not because they seek to please anyone or because someone finds it yielding." 

"Our equipment has proved its worth first of all from the point of view of combat uses and the price-quality ratio," he stressed.


Many countries opt for Russian combat equipment despite sanctions — official


TASS: India is very much likely to buy an extra batch of Russian MiG-29 fighter jets, chief of Russia’s Federal Service for Military Technical Cooperation Dmitry Shugayev said on Monday.

"There is a high probability that we will have an additional order for MiG-29 fighter jets," he said in an interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel.

India currently has more than 60 MiG-29 aircarft.

According to Shugayev, Russia has good chances to take part in India’s tender for the purchase of 110 fighter jets that is to be announced soon. It was reported earlier that the Russian side planned to take part in this tender with its MiG-35 fighter jets.

Aside India, many foreign countries choose to buy Russian combat equipment despite the sanction risks, Shugayev said on Monday.

During the interview with the Rossiya-24 television channel, Shugayev said, "Russia as a reliable partner is in priority with many countries. Some countries and concrete persons are running real risks opting to buy our equipment. We value such partners because they prefer us."

According to Shugayev, Russia’s foreign partners are guided by their own interests and choose Russian combat equipment "not because they seek to please anyone or because someone finds it yielding." 

"Our equipment has proved its worth first of all from the point of view of combat uses and the price-quality ratio," he stressed.


COVID-19: Vatican, Cameroon, Serbia record first cases

COVID-19: Vatican, Cameroon, Serbia record first cases

India coronavirus cases jump to 31

Philippines reports two new infections, while South Korea reports 518 new cases

Vatican, Cameroon and Serbia are the latest to confirmed first cases of  COVID-19 in their respective domains as the confirmed cases in India jumped to thirty one.

Cameroon confirmed its first case of coronavirus after a 58-year-old French citizen tested positive to the virus, thus becoming the 7th country in African sub-region to confirm the presence of the deadly virus after Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Nigeria, Tunisia and South Africa..

The health ministry said the man, who arrived in the capital Yaounde on February 24, has been quarantined in the city's central hospital.

In Serbia, health minister Zlatibor Loncar reported on Friday that a 43-year-old man became the first person in Serbia to reported as having been infected with the coronavirus.

Meanwhile the Vatican has reported its first coronavirus case, saying it had suspended outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told journalists on Friday that the clinic, which has some 1,000 residents, will be deep cleaned.

However, the number of coronavirus cases in India has increased sharply from six to 31 this week, the health ministry announced on Friday. Authorities in the capital, New Delhi, have also ordered the closure of primary schools until March 31 to prevent local transmission.

Philippines reports two new infections

Philippine Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced two new coronavirus infections, bringing the total confirmed cases to five.

One of the patients had reportedly traveled to Japan, while the other person "has no known history of travel outside the country". The second patient reported on Friday reportedly frequented a mosque in Metro Manila before the infection was confirmed.

While there are only five confirmed cases in the Philippines, more than 80 Filipinos working abroad have contracted the disease, most of whom were working on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

South Korean health authorities reported 518 new cases of the coronavirus on Friday, bringing to 6,284 the total number of infections nationwide, according to Yonhap news agency.

Yonhap also quoted the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as saying that 42 people, mostly elderly with underlying illnesses, have died.

Most of the cases of infections were from the southeastern city of Daegu, a city of 2.5 million people.

Globally, more than 95,000 people have been diagnosed with the disease, the vast majority in China, with 3,015 deaths in China and 267 deaths across the globe, many in Italy and Iran.


 

India coronavirus cases jump to 31

Philippines reports two new infections, while South Korea reports 518 new cases

Vatican, Cameroon and Serbia are the latest to confirmed first cases of  COVID-19 in their respective domains as the confirmed cases in India jumped to thirty one.

Cameroon confirmed its first case of coronavirus after a 58-year-old French citizen tested positive to the virus, thus becoming the 7th country in African sub-region to confirm the presence of the deadly virus after Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Nigeria, Tunisia and South Africa..

The health ministry said the man, who arrived in the capital Yaounde on February 24, has been quarantined in the city's central hospital.

In Serbia, health minister Zlatibor Loncar reported on Friday that a 43-year-old man became the first person in Serbia to reported as having been infected with the coronavirus.

Meanwhile the Vatican has reported its first coronavirus case, saying it had suspended outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told journalists on Friday that the clinic, which has some 1,000 residents, will be deep cleaned.

However, the number of coronavirus cases in India has increased sharply from six to 31 this week, the health ministry announced on Friday. Authorities in the capital, New Delhi, have also ordered the closure of primary schools until March 31 to prevent local transmission.

Philippines reports two new infections

Philippine Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced two new coronavirus infections, bringing the total confirmed cases to five.

One of the patients had reportedly traveled to Japan, while the other person "has no known history of travel outside the country". The second patient reported on Friday reportedly frequented a mosque in Metro Manila before the infection was confirmed.

While there are only five confirmed cases in the Philippines, more than 80 Filipinos working abroad have contracted the disease, most of whom were working on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship.

South Korean health authorities reported 518 new cases of the coronavirus on Friday, bringing to 6,284 the total number of infections nationwide, according to Yonhap news agency.

Yonhap also quoted the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as saying that 42 people, mostly elderly with underlying illnesses, have died.

Most of the cases of infections were from the southeastern city of Daegu, a city of 2.5 million people.

Globally, more than 95,000 people have been diagnosed with the disease, the vast majority in China, with 3,015 deaths in China and 267 deaths across the globe, many in Italy and Iran.


 

Poster Speaks

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