India News - Dec 1-15, 2020; Vol 1 Issue 11

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India is surpassing Paris Indian govt bans 43 Chinese mobile Agreement targets: Modi apps over national security concerns at G20

New Delhi, Nov 22 (IANS): India is not only meeting its Paris Agreement targets but has also been exceeding them, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the G20 summit held virtually on November 22.

In his address at the G-20 Summit side event, “Safeguarding the Planet - The Circular Carbon Economy Approach�, he said that India has taken concrete action in many areas for clean climate. “We have made LED lights popular. This saves 38 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year. Smoke free kitchens have been provided to over 80 million households through our Ujjwala Scheme. This is among the largest clean energy drives globally,� the Prime Minister told

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the member countries.

Climate change, he said, must be fought not in silos but in an integrated, comprehensive and holistic way. “Inspired by our traditional ethos of living in harmony with the environment, and the commitment of my government, India has adopted low-carbon and climate-resilient development practices,� Modi Continued on Page 3

New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): Continuing with its ban orders on Chinese apps, the Indian government on November 24 blocked 43 new mobile apps, including shopping website AliExpress owned by e-commerce behemoth Alibaba.

to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, defence, security of the state and public order�.

Other popular apps that have been banned include WeWorkChina, CamCard and Snack. These apps have been banned by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for engaging in activities which are “prejudicial

The Indian government had on September 2 banned 118 apps on national security concerns, including the immensely popular PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile, Baidu and couple of virtual private networks (VPNs) that allowed access to TikTok that

The ministry banned these apps based on reports received from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Queensland continues

to overcome Brisbane, Nov 17: Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a further easing of restrictions as Queensland continues its recovery from the pandemic.

areas, museums, art galleries, places of worship, convention centres and parliament house

from audience from 4m to 2m except choirs which remain at 4m from audience

can dance

• Outdoor events: increase outdoor events from 1000 to 1500 with a COVID safe checklist (larger events require a COVID safe plan)

• Indoor premises: increase from one person per four square metres to one person per two square metres (eg restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, indoor play

venues to increase from 50% to 100% (eg theatre, live music, cinemas and indoor sports), performers can reduce distance

(ADF) on November 19 released Family stream Partner Specialist I Sponsored • Gatherings: increase gatherings the Visas findings of aI landmark four- Visa • Funerals: UpVisas to 200 people can in homes and public spaces from year inquiry that found “credible attend a funeral Job Ready I Skill Assessments I AAT representation 40 to 50 across Queensland evidenceâ€? of the special forces • Indoor events: seated, ticket soldiers’ murdering 39 prisoners, farmers and civilians during the war in Afghanistan, reports Xinhua news agency.

Continued on Page 3

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The Australian Defence Force

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Covid-19 and ease restrictions

Student Visas PM Morrison vows justice forI Skilled Visas I Tourist Visas • Weddings: up to 200 people can Temporary Graduate Visas I Business Migration alleged war crimes in Afghanistan attend a wedding and all guests

Canberra, Nov 20 (IANS): Prime Minister Scott Morrison has vowed that allegations of war crimes committed by his country’s soldiers in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016 will be taken “very seriously�.

was banned earlier.

• Open air stadiums: Increase seated Capacity from 75% to 100% • Outdoor dancing: outdoor dancing allowed (eg outdoor music festivals) Continued on Page 3

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News from India

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Diwali 2020

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World News

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Make in India

Co-innovation, Net-zero targets will potentially shape key policy considerations to India’s renewable energy expansion

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WORLD THIS WEEK

Renu Vasave

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

COVER STORIES

India is surpassing Paris PM Morrison vows justice for Agreement targets: Modi alleged war crimes in Afghanistan at G20 Continued from Page 3

Giving details about the efforts made by his government, he pointed out the campaign to eliminate single-use plastics.

“Our forest cover is expanding; the lion and tiger population is increasing; we aim to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030; and, we are encouraging a circular economy.”

India is making next-generation infrastructure such as metro networks, water-ways and more, he said. In addition to convenience and efficiency, they will also contribute to a cleaner environment.

The Prime Minister assured that India will meet its goal of 175 Giga Watts of renewable energy well before the target of 2022. “Now, we are taking a big step ahead by seeking to achieve 450 Giga Watts by 2030.”

The International Solar Alliance is among the fastest growing International Organisations, with 88 signatories. With plans to mobilise billions of dollars, train thousands of stakeholders, and promote research

and development in renewable energy, the ISA will contribute to reducing carbon foot-print.

Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)-18 countries -- including 9 from among the G20 and 4 international organisations -- has already started work on increasing resilience of critical infrastructure to prevent damage during natural disasters.

This is the best time for further increasing research and innovation in new and sustainable technologies, the Prime Minister said. “We should do so with a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. The entire world can progress faster if there is greater support of technology and finance to the developing world.”

For humanity to prosper, every single individual must prosper, he said. Rather than seeing labour as a factor of production alone, the focus must be on the human dignity of every worker. Such an approach would be the best guarantee for safeguarding our planet, the Prime Minister added.

Indian govt bans 43 Chinese mobile apps over national security concerns Continued from Page 3 Other popular banned apps were Baidu Express Edition, ShareSave

by Xiaomi, WeChat Work, Tencent Weiyun, Tencent Watchlist, Alipay, GO SMS Pro, ZAKZAK Pro and Live, Smart AppLock and Ludo World-Ludo Superstar, among others.

In July, the government barred 47 Chinese apps from operating in the country, which were largely clones of the 59 apps that were banned in June.

On June 29, the government banned 59 Chinese apps,

including TikTok, WeChat, UC Browser and Xiaomi’s Mi Community, over national security concerns amid the border tussle in Eastern Ladakh which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers in a bloody clash with Chinese PLA troops in the Galwan Valley in June.

Other Chinese apps in the banned list were Club Factory, SHAREit, Likee, Mi Video Call (Xiaomi), Weibo, Baidu, BIGO LIVE and more.

Continued from Page 3 It recommended that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) open criminal investigations into 19 individuals for their roles in the incidents.

Morrison, who previously warned that the report contained “difficult and hard news” for Australians, said the allegations would be pursued until “justice is indeed served”.

“Where things don’t measure up to those standards as a country and indeed as a Defence Force, we look seriously at those issues, take them seriously and deal with them seriously to uphold those standards,” he told Sky News Australia.

“And that this report will be received and provided to the office of a special investigator to pursue any matters that must be pursued and can be pursued under our rule of law and that justice is indeed served.

“And these are the assurances that I have provided to the Afghan government, that this is the process that we will follow,” he added.

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who was Australia’s leader for about three of the years covered by the inquiry, said he was “disgusted” by the findings.

“It beggars belief that following the atrocities witnessed during the Iraq war at Abu Ghraib that such crimes could be repeated, and worse, by Australian forces in

Prime Minister Scott Morrison Afghanistan,” Rudd, who served as the prime minister between 2007 and 2010 and again in 2013, said in the statement.

“Those who are responsible for these crimes, and any efforts to conceal them, must be brought to justice.

“Behind every unlawful killing is a family grieving for someone they love. The families of those victims must be compensated for their unjust loss, the former leader added.

The report recommends that compensation be paid to the families of the Afghan victims before any criminal prosecutions, and that the honours awarded to those implicated in the report be revoked.

The inquiry, which was conducted

by New South Wales Supreme

Court Justice Paul Brereton, heard testimonies from more than 400 witnesses.

One witness, former Special Forces medic Dusty Miller, said his decision to speak out was vindicated by the report.

“It’s all true. It happened. It’s factual. It’s what happened over there, it’s something that I witnessed on a number of occasions,” he said, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on November 20.

“It’s been approximately eight years of knowing what certain individuals got up to over there and to hear the Chief of Defence Force publicly confirm those allegations. It’s complete vindication.”

Queensland continues to overcome Covid-19 and ease restrictions Continued from Page 3 The Premier said these were sensible steps back to normality after Queensland recorded 60 days without a locally acquired case.

“This is the result of the hard work of Queenslanders,” the Premier said.

“Other countries are experiencing third waves with increasing numbers of daily cases.

“Queenslanders are able to enjoy our Queensland way of life and we have to keep up the good work.”

The changes came into effect at 4pm on 17 November 2020.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said the pandemic isn’t over so we have to stay vigilant.

“We can’t forget the basics,” the Minister said.

“That means keep up social distancing, stay home if you’re sick and maintain basic hygiene.”

Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said the good work of businesses and venues under COVID-19 Safe Plans, such as collecting contact details,

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Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk complying with occupant density numbers, and providing hand sanitiser, had helped move Queensland to further ease restrictions early.

“Queensland’s COVID Safe plans have worked well to keep our community safe and help keep life

as normal as possible,” Dr Young said.

“COVID Safe Plans will be reviewed and updated in line with the further easing of restrictions, and government departments will work with their stakeholders to do this.”

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

NEWS FROM INDIA

Modi’s visit to Bharat Sikh Regiment takes over ceremonial duties at Rashtrapati Bhavan Biotech is strong motivation: Naidu New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS) The Sikh Regiment of the Army on Saturday took charge of the Ceremonial Army Guard duties at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here from the Gorkha Rifles.

Amaravati, Nov 29 (IANS): Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bharat Biotech as a strong motivation and recalled that Genome Valley in Hyderabad was his brainchild.

“The Prime Minister’s visit would serve as a strong motivation for Bharat Biotech to take its efforts forward in making the Coronavirus vaccine ‘Covaxin’,” said Naidu as he reminisced that the Genome Valley was founded back in 1999 to bolster biomedical research, training and manufacturing.

Genome Valley is spread across the suburban localities of Turakapally, Shamirpet, Medchal, Uppal, Patancheru, Jeedimetla, Gachibowli and Keesara in Hyderabad.

“My three decades old vision became a reality now. It is a dream come true that the vaccine for the epidemic is being developed at Genome Valley for

The 5th Battalion of the 1st Gorkha Rifles, on completion of its three-and-half years term as Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion, handed over the charge to the 6th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment.

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu which I laid the foundation,” said Naidu.

As many as 150 international companies currently operate from here, generating opportunities to many young people.

“I thank the brave and brilliant minds at Bharat Biotech and all the organisations and companies that are stepping up to help us battle against this devastating epidemic. I wish them all success,” he said.

Naidu also advised future policy makers that their policies must be a proof in the future.

Air quality will substantially improve in coming years: CPCB Member Secy

By Aakanksha Khajuria New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS): As the national capital and the surrounding states reel under a air pollution crisis, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Member Secretary Prashant Gargava on Thursday assured that the air quality will substantially improve in coming years and that the country is on a right track in curbing the menace.

His assurance comes at a time when the city, along with various other states, are caught in the chokehold of severe air pollution.

Delhi’s air quality had taken a sharp turn for worse on Tuesday, after a brief lull from an early November spell of pollution largely caused by farm fires in Punjab and Haryana.

“In years to come, the air quality will substantially improve. I am optimistic. In the last four-five years, we have observed that the air quality is getting space in political agenda anad public discussion. It is becoming a subject of concern and therefore there is demand for cleaner air and fast-track actions,” Gargava emphasised.

Another reason for believing that the air quality will improve, he said, is that in the last four-five

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years, there have been substantial scientific inputs and policy making frameworks.

“Earlier, actions were based on perceptions or limited data.

Now more and more in-depth scientific analysis, data and knowledge are being looked at carefully by the policymakers. We are on the right track,” he added.

Gargava also said that the pollution control board is setting up a mechanism to track the progress of implementation of National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The programme was launched last year by the Centre to reduce particulate matter pollution by 20-30 per cent in at least 102 cities by 2024.

“We are working on developing a dashboard which essentially will capture not only physical and financial progress but also change in air quality levels. It will be cityspecific,” he said.

“We are also planning to put up a 10-city super network wherein much more in-depth measurement and scientific analysis will be done. We will more promote Atmanirbhar instrumentation so that our reliability on indigenous instruments also goes up.”

President Ram Nath Kovind witnessed the ceremonial changeover of the Army Guard Battalion stationed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Different Infantry units of the

Army function as the Ceremonial Army Guard at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by rotation.

The Army Guard Battalion performs ceremonial duties at important events such as Guard of Honours to visiting dignitaries, Republic Day and Independence Day parades, Beating the Retreat Ceremony, apart from performing ceremonial guard duties at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The Commanding Officers of the 5th Battalion of the 1st Gorkha Rifles and the 6th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment will call on the President later in the day. The President will also interact with the outgoing Battalion’s men.

Actively considering lockdown, night curfew: Delhi govt tells HC New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS): The Delhi government on Thursday informed the Delhi High Court that it is “actively considering” the option of imposing night curfews or a lockdown in the national capital and this would depend on the Covid-19 situation.

“We’re actively considering imposition of lockdown or night curfews but no decision has been taken on it yet,” said advocates Sandeep Sethi and Satyakam on behalf of the city government.

The submissions came as the court heard a Public Interest Litigation filed by advocate Rakesh Malhotra seeking increasing the Covid-19 testing numbers in the national capital and getting speedy results.

The response came after a division bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Subramonium

Prasad enquired from the Delhi government if it is planning to impose night curfews or weekend curfews like various other cities have done due to rise in Covid-19 infections.

In response, the government counsel said that there is a procedure already in place which involves the district administration and the local police.

Following these submissions, the bench said: “It is now for the Delhi government to take a call as to whether night curfew is required to be imposed in Delhi or some parts of Delhi and/or other measures need to be adopted to contain the virus. Delhi government shall take a decision on this aspect and implement the same without losing further time.”

The bench has now asked the Delhi government to inform on the next date of hearing about the data regarding the number of complaints received and/or how many inspections have been conducted.

During the hearing, the court also asked the Delhi government as to whether the order directing a maximum number of 50 guests at a marriage ceremony has been strictly enforced and the SOPs drawn up in this regard.

With regards to the burial or cremation of those who have succumbed to Covid-19, the Delhi government said they have sufficient capacity in the city.

“The present capacity of the crematoriums in Delhi is 380 bodies per day and the said capacity can be enhanced, if necessary,” it submitted through Sethi.

SC dismisses 1993 Bombay blasts’ case convict’s plea for leniency New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS): The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea filed by Muhammad MoinFaridulla Qureshi, serving a life term after conviction in the 1993 Mumbai blasts’ case, seeking leniency under the Juvenile Justice Act. Qureshi had moved the top court under Article 32 of the Constitution.

A bench headed by Justice DY Chandrachud and comprising Justices Indu Malhotra and Indira Banerjee said on Friday that the relief sought in the petition would essentially require the court, in exercise of its jurisdiction under Article 32, to overturn the sentence imposed on the petitioner in the TADA case by a designated court, when the conviction and sentence have been upheld by this court in the

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Supreme Court criminal appeal.

However, the top court did not express any opinion on the submissions of Senior Advocate S Nagamuth, appearing for the petitioner, that his client would be advised to file a curative petition.

The bench observed that as per the records, the conviction of

the appellant by the designated court had been upheld through dismissal of his criminal appeal and rejection of a review plea.

“The issue of juvenility was raised before the designated court as well as before this court when the appeal was heard and has been specifically dealt with,” noted the bench.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

NEWS FROM INDIA

Azad tries to mend Congress leader Ahmed Patel fence with Gandhis, dies at 71 draws criticism New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS): Congress leader Ahmed Patel passed away at 3.30 a.m. on November 25 at the age of 71 years after Covid-19 complication in Gurugram Hospital.

New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS): Senior leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, who gave a clean chit to the first family in the Congress and attacked the party, is under fire.

Haryana Member of Legislative Assembly Chiranjeev Rao, the brother in law of Tejashwi Yadav, said that “Ghulam should be made Azad from the party”, even as the Congress asked both sides to refrain from speaking in public at a time when the internal crisis in the Congress is deepening with each passing day.

Party leader Sanjay Nirupam too has attacked the dissenters, saying “those crticising the leadership will weaken the party.”

He also said that Rahul Gandhi should take over as the party president.

While Azad on November 22 gave a clean chit to the Gandhis, in party circles it is perceived that he strategically avoided attacking the Gandhis as he is aware of the repercussions.

The dissenters have said that they are not rebels but reformists, and have pushed for elections in the organisation. Azad’s outburst came after the Congress was routed in the Bihar Assembly polls.

His son Faisal Patel tweeted ,”With profound grief I regret to announce the sad and untimely demise of my father on 25/11 at 3.30a.m.”

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad Besides questioning the party leadership and functioning, Azad has also said that the party should hold elections to strengthen the organisation and make it more responsible. Dismissing allegations of rebellion levelled against the dissenters, Azad, the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, said, “We are reformists and want the revival of the party.”

Azad, the second senior Congress leader after former Union minister Kapil Sibal to speak about the party’s dismal show in the Bihar Assembly polls, said that the Congress should shed the five-star culture, at least during elections, and insisted that the leaders should reach out to the people.

Indian PM pays tribute to Indira Gandhi New Delhi, Nov 19 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 19 paid tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 103rd birth anniversary.

Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first Prime Minister.

“Salutations to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary,” the Prime Minister tweeted.

Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her own bodyguards at her official residence on October 31, 1984, months after she ordered the Operation Bluestar, in which the army entered the Golden Temple in Amritsar, one of the holiest Sikh shrines, to remove separatists hiding inside.

India’s first and only woman Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi was born on November 19, 1917 in Uttar Pradesh’s Allahabad, presently known as Prayagraj.

She was the daughter of Pandit

She held the office of the Prime Minister between 1966 and 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in 1984.

Manmohan to lead Cong panels on economy, security, foreign affairs New Delhi, Nov 20 (IANS): Congress President Sonia Gandhi has constituted three key committees of the party to formulate its strategy on issues related to economy, national security and foreign affairs -- all headed by former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

will have Salman Khurshid as convenor and Anand Sharma, Shashi Tharoor and Saptgiri Ulaka as members.

The Economic Affairs Committee will have P Chidambaram, Digvijaya Singh, Mallikarjun Kharge as members and Jairam Ramesh as convenor.

The appointments to the new panels come amid differences within the Congress on Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and People’s Alliance on Gupkar Declaration issues.

The Foreign Affairs Committee

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The National Security Committee will have Vincent Pala as convenor and Ghulam Nabi Azad, Veerappa Moily and V Vaithilingam as members.

More than a month after testing positive for Covid-19 infection, Patel was under treatment at a Gurugram-based hospital. He was being monitored by a team of doctors.

Veteran leader Ahmed Patel that my dear friend Ahmed Patel passed away in the early hours of today...For two decades, he was one of the staunchest pillars of the Congress party and a trusted

counsellor. He will be profoundly missed...I offer my tribute to his memory and convey my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family.”

have been found to be used for routing suspicious transactions, the ED said.

persons and others for suspicious transactions in various bank accounts.

Among these seven locations, six are in Srinagar and one in Anantnag district.

“The parties covered under searches are involved in hospitality and agro-based industries, civil construction and real estate. Statements of persons covered in the searches are being recorded to unravel the source of huge credits and debits in their accounts. Recovered incriminating documents and soft data are also being analysed.”

It has been alleged in the FIR that the bank accounts were used for routing money of public servants as well as some private parties, the ED said. “Further, bank officials, in connivance with these public servants, deliberately omitted to raise the alerts as required under Anti-Money Laundering norms.”

On the basis of specific information, searches at seven places belonging to Mohd.

Ibrahim Dar, Murtaza Enterprises, Azad Agro Traders, M&M Cottage Industries and Mohd. Sultan Teli, were conducted, which resulted in recovery of evidence of money laundering as the bank accounts

The financial probe agency initiated the investigation in the case under PMLA after the Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Investigation Department registered First Information Report (FIR) against the officials of J&K Bank, some unidentified public servants, a few private

Srinagar, Nov 23 (IANS): The Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti (KPSS) has started the second phase of “Fast-Unto-Death” to press for the implementation of the assurances given to them by the Jammu and Kashmir administration on September 30, a statement issued by KPSS said on November 23.

of KPSS met the Lieutenant Governor (LG) at the Raj Bhawan in Srinagar and submitted a detailed memorandum along with copies of recommendations of MHA and the orders passed by the high court in favour of non-migrant Kashmiri Pandits/ Kashmiri Hindus living in the Valley. The LG assured the delegation that the demands would be taken up on priority as those related to the very survival of the 808 non-migrant Kashmiri Pandit/Kashmiri Hindu families living in the Kashmir valley,” the statement said.

Former Indian Finance Minister P. Chidambaram tweeted, “Deeply shocked and saddened to learn

J&K bank fraud case: ED conducts searches New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on November 21 conducted searches at seven places in Kashmir in connection with its ongoing money laundering investigation in a case related to suspicious transactions in Jammu and Kashmir Bank, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).

“Investigations conducted under the PMLA so far have revealed that the transactions in many of these bank accounts maintained with J&K Bank were not genuine and these accounts were utilised for the purpose of laundering.

Further investigation is under progress.”

KPSS commences second phase of ‘Fast-Unto-Death’

As per the statement, since June 2020, hundreds of communications have been sent to the J&K administration to implement the recommendations of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) regarding jobs in favour of non-migrant Kashmiri Pandits/ Kashmiri Hindus living in the Valley.

“On August 27, 2020, a delegation

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“Unfortunately, nothing moved in the administration to resolve our demands, forcing the KPSS to undertake the first phase of

‘Fast-Unto-Death’ on September 20. On September 30, the Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, visited the venue of the fast and handed over a written assurance that the memorandum of demands of the Samiti would be placed before the government for consideration on priority and a meeting with KPSS would be organised,” the statement said.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

NEWS FROM INDIA

No coercive steps Ex-Assam CM cremated with against slum full state honours dwellers: Indian govt New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): The Centre on November 24 informed the Supreme Court that no coercive steps will be taken against the slum dwellers, until a decision is taken by the government on the issue of removal of 48,000 slums along the railway tracks in Delhi.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, submitted before a bench headed

by Chief Justice S. A. Bobde that the government is still deliberating on the issue and assured that until a decision is taken, there will be no coercive steps.

After a brief hearing on the matter, the bench, which also comprised Justices A.S. Bopanna and V. Ramasubramanian, adjourned the matter for four weeks after taking on record the Centre’s submissions.

During a brief hearing, the Chief Justice inquired as to the number of residents in these slums along the railway tracks, and senior advocate Collin Gonsalves responded that it runs into lakhs.

On September 14, Mehta had informed the top court that for the time being, there will be no removal of 48,000 slums along the railway tracks in Delhi.

SC considers issuing notice to Maha Speaker over Arnab letter New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): The Supreme Court on November 24 observed that it is contemplating issuing notice to Maharashtra Assembly Speaker while hearing a plea by Republic TV editor Arnab Goswami challenging the show-cause notice issued by the Assembly for initiation of breach of privilege motion against him.

The notice was issued for Goswami’s reporting in connection with the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput.

Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing Goswami, submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice S.A. Bobde that a notice should be issued to the Speaker in the matter.

On November 6, the top court had asked the Maharashtra Assembly’s Assistant Secretary Lucknow, Nov 24 (IANS): The Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh on November 24 approved the draft ordinance dealing with forced religious conversions, also known as ‘love jihad’.

Interestingly, the ordinance does not mention the term ‘love jihad’, and the draft has been named ‘Vidhi Virudh Dharmantaran 2020’.

The cabinet meeting held on November 24 gave its nod to the proposed draft. The Bill is considered to be an anticonversion law and it will stop individuals from converting people to other faiths by enticing or threatening.

Justice Aditya Mittal, the Chairman of the Law Commission, said, “The term ‘love jihad’ has not been used in the Bill, and conversions related

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Guwahati, Nov 26 (IANS): Assam bade an emotional send-off to its longest serving Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on November 26, as his funeral was marked by the presence of thousands of men and women, and performed with full state honours at the Nabagraha cremation ground in Guwahati.

Amidst the chanting of solemn hymns and gun salute and band played by the Assam Police, the mortal remains of Gogoi were consigned to flames by his son Gaurav Gogoi, a Lok Sabha member, in the presence of thousands of people, many of whom were emotionally charged.

Wearing the traditional “Chelleng Sador” (a shawl) and ‘dhoti’ (men’s garment) along with a face mask, Gaurav lit the pyre after performing the rituals.

The veteran Congress leader’s wife septuagenarian Dolly, daughter Chandrima, daughterin-law Elizabeth and other family members placed sandalwood pieces on the pyre before it was lit

by Gaurav.

The 86-year old three-time chief minister (2001-2016), twice Union Minister and six-time Lok Sabha

MP, died on November 23 at the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital following around fourmonth long battle with Covid-19 and associated complications.

Many people could not control their emotions and were weeping when the funeral rituals were started. As thousands of people joined Gogoi’s final journey, as per his last wish, the mortal remains of the octogenarian leader were taken to a church, namghar, mosque, temple and a Bihu celebration field, before it reached the Nabagraha cremation ground.

It was an unprecedented emotional funeral procession, very rarely witnessed in Assam, with hundreds and thousands of enthusiasts, passersby and others stopping the flower-bedecked truck at many places, bowing their heads before the huge cutouts of Gogoi on the vehicle, and throwing flower petals.

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government had announced a half-day government holiday on November 26 to enable the people to show their last respect to the veteran Congress leader.

Ex-Assam CM Tarun Gogoi Congress spokesperson Rhituporna Konwar said, “Gogoi sir was genuinely a secular leader in theory and practice. There are many leaders who talk about secularism, but never follow it personally. Gogoi sir never thought otherwise when his son Gaurav married a Christian woman from the UK. He encouraged cultural assimilation and brought together people belonging to different religions, caste and creed.”

Earlier on November 26 morning, Gogoi’s glass coffin, wrapped in flowers, was taken out from Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, where his body had been kept since November 24 for the public to pay their respect.

UP CM’s cabinet approves draft ordinance on religious conversions Republic TV editor Arnab Goswami

anyone found guilty of having lured another person for conversion through marriage could face trial in the court after registration of an FIR by the police.

to show cause in two weeks why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him for his October 13 letter to Goswami warning him for showing the Assembly notice issued to him in the apex court.

In case the charge is proven, the accused can be awarded rigorous imprisonment for up to five years, if the woman is from the general category. The quantum of punishment can go up to 10 years in case the victim is a minor or a Dalit.

to all religions will be covered under the new law. To be precise, it will not just be focused on Hindu-Muslim conversions or conversions for the specific purpose of marriage.”

In another important provision, the family courts will have the power to adjudicate under the proposed law. An aggrieved person will be able to approach a family court in case he or she feels cheated. The court in turn will have the power to nullify such a marriage.

In the proposed Bill, there is a provision of five to 10-year jail term for a person convicted in such a case.

Mittal, however, added that under the prospective law, inter-religious marriages will be encouraged to go through the Special Marriage Act. Under the Act, a consenting couple needs to reach out to the district magistrate’s court expressing a desire for marriage.

Subsequent to such a request, the administration will issue a 30-day notice during which objections can be raised to such a proposed marriage.

Under the proposed legislation,

The Uttar Pradesh Law Commission had submitted a draft for the proposed law in November 2019. It was under the consideration of the Home and Law Ministry over the last year.

Recently, the Yogi Adityanath government had given its consent to the draft of the new law.

Some saffron groups and BJP leaders have used the term ‘love jihad’ to target interfaith marriages, accusing Muslim men of engaging in a mass conspiracy to turn Hindu women away from their religion by luring them.

Earlier, the Allahabad High Court

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Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath had struck down its previous judgement in which it had held that religious conversion “just for the purpose of marriage” was unacceptable.

The court said that essentially it does not matter whether a conversion is valid. The right of two adults to live together cannot be encroached upon by the state or others.

“To disregard the choice of a person who is of the age of majority would not only be antithetic to the freedom of choice of a grown up individual but would also be a threat to the concept of unity in diversity,” the court said.

The right to choose a partner irrespective of caste, creed or religion is intrinsic to the constitutional right to life and personal liberty, the Allahabad High Court held, adding that two previous judgments that objected to religious conversion for the purpose of marriage did not ‘lay down good law’.

Meanwhile, the saints of Ayodhya have welcomed the new law and said that this should have come years ago. Mahant Paramhans Das of Tapasvi Chhavni thanked Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and said that the new law would protect girls and women against exploitation.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

ADVERTORIAL

Brookwater’s natural beauty draws Doshi family

T

he natural beauty of Brookwater and a welldesigned master-planned community is what drew Dr Deepak Doshi and his wife to Greater Springfield.

Dr Doshi, the West Moreton Health Chief Medical Officer (CMO), moved to Brookwater just over a year ago.

“On our first drive, when my wife and I were on the hunt for a house, we were amazed to see the well-designed township here,” Dr Doshi said.

“It was the welcome feel from everyone and amenities close by that were an added attraction.”

Brookwater is a premier residential community, where lush greens, lakes, parklands and natural bushland meet modern residential living, and is only 30 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD. The Brookwater Golf Club is an 18-hole public access golf course, designed by former professional golfer Greg Norman, however Dr Doshi admitted he had not taken to the greens yet.

“I do like the long stretches of green grass and walking areas,” Dr Doshi said.

“We see a lot of multicultural families in the area and last week

was Deepavali (festival of lights celebrated by Hindus) and New Year for us, which we celebrated at a temple.”

Dr Doshi’s house is the perfect place to unwind after a hard day’s work.

“Our house overlooks the mountains and there is a nice garden space to relax and watch the sunset,” he said.

“On the weekend, we often go out for walks in the surrounding beautiful areas. About 20 minutes’ drive is the yoga centre (that is now open) and a great way to connect to our inner self, for me and my wife.”

He said there was also a Buddhist temple close by, a place where they often go for prayers and meditation.

Dr Doshi said Greater Springfield was a “mini-city” with everything one needed for the entire family.

“There are several educational institutions, including schools and higher learning institutions,” Dr Doshi said.

“There’s great public transport which makes getting to the university easy for everyone.”

He said the mini-city made everyone feel welcome, for all ages and cultures.

Since taking on the role as CMO at West Moreton Health, Dr Doshi said 2020 had been a “challenging year for all”.

included indigenous, migrants and economically disadvantaged people, which was the most satisfying part of his job.

Dr Doshi said he looked forward to making a positive difference to the health of the community, specifically vulnerable groups that

“It has been over decade now that we have been enjoying the sunshine in Australia which was immensely missed prior to

coming here from the UK,” Dr Doshi said.

“The natural beauty of Australia is unsurpassable and we wish to explore the continent more both on land and in the waters once the borders open for us all.”

Australia focuses on Indian diaspora for economic success

I

ndian businesses abroad are being lured to Australia under a new and exciting Australian Government initiative. The Global Business and Talent Attraction Taskforce has been established to create quality Australian jobs by attracting high value businesses and exceptional talent to Australia to help turbo-charge the economy.

The Taskforce brings together experts from the Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments as part of the Government’s JobMaker Plan.

Special Envoy, Peter Verwer AO, who leads the Task force, says Australia is seeking trailblazers, entrepreneurs and proven enterprises in the future-focused industries of Health and Life Sciences, Financial Services, including FinTech, and Advanced Manufacturing and its many streams.

“We are focused on top-tier businesses and individuals who can bring their networks, energy and ideas to our shores as soon as possible,” Mr Verwer says.

“We will be leveraging our networks, including the Indian diaspora, to help identify companies and individuals who can significantly contribute to Australia’s economic recovery by filling supply chain.”

Eligible companies will have access to fast track visas with a streamlined pathway to

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permanent residency and a personalised end-to-end service for relocating to Australia.

Senator Paul Scarr says the taskforce is a further opportunity to progress the relationship between India and Australia.

“The taskforce is an exciting opportunity for those in the Australian Indian diaspora to contact Indian businesses and individuals and promote this once in a lifetime opportunity,” Senator Scarr says.

“I am incredibly excited and passionate about the taskforce because it allows the two countries to continue to build important relationships and bring more Indian talent to Australian shores.”

Senator Scarr says the taskforce follows growing interest in India, including An India Economic Strategy to 2035 report, which reveals the untapped potential that Australia can benefit from.

“The Australian Indian diaspora is over 750,000 strong and the fastest growing diaspora in Australia,” Senator Scarr says.

“This diaspora will have a big role to play in the partnerships of the future between India and Australia. It is very much part of Australia’s economic strategy and success.

“The report also tells us India’s financial services will grow to 2035 and that India is an

Senator Paul Scarr emerging hub for research and development. Australia should build on its business relationships with India and bring talent to Australia, so everyone wins.”

The report also follows a successful virtual India-Australia Leaders’ Summit between Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

The meeting led to the creation of a new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between Australia and India. The CSP takes the bilateral relationship between India and Australia to a new level of cooperation, based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the shared values of democracy and the rule of law.

The CSP also means the Foreign and Defence Ministers will meet at least every two years.

“It is in both India and Australia’s interests to grow and enhance relationships between the

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two countries. It benefits the people in India and the business community in Australia,” Senator Scarr said.

“We have wonderful opportunities ahead and I look forward to continuing to build relationships with the Australian Indian

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For more information go to www.

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7

INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

DIWALI 2020

FICQ Diwali festivities dispel darkness in Covid-19 times W

hen it comes to Diwali, the festival of light, Indians, no matter wherever they are in the world, get together and celebrate the occasion enthusiastically. This year was no exception, the COVID 19 pandemic notwithstanding.

Here in Australia, just like the previous years, Diwali was organised by the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ). The City Hall reverberated with the sounds of Indian traditional and Bollywood dance and music in the evening of November 22 as the Diwali 2020 festivities got underway here.

The extravaganza featuring various cultural performances was attended by many Australians and members of Indian community. Distinguished community leaders, highprofile politicians as well as the who’s who of the Indian community in the city were also present at the muchawaited event. Most notable among the VIPs were, Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minster for Multicultural Affairs Hon. Leanne Linard MP, representing The Premier of Queensland Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Deputy High Commissioner of India P S Karthigeyan representing The High Commissioner of India Shri Anumula Gitesh Sarma, LNP Senator of Queensland Paul Scarr representing the Prime Minister of Australia, Hon. Scott Morrison MP, Graham Perrett MP, Federal Member for Moreton, Queensland – representing The Federal Opposition Leader, Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, Mr David Crisafulli – State Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Tourism, JohnPaul Langbroek MP - Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism

and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Shadow Minister for Seniors, Communities and Disability Services, Cr Kim Marx representing the Right Hon. The Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Cr Adrian Schrinner, Dr Maha Sinnathamby AM Patron FICQ and Chairman of Springfield city Group, Archana Singh – Honorary Consul of India in Queensland, Police Commissioner of Queensland Commissioner Katarina Carroll APM, Aunty Peggy Tidymann, Cr Angela Owen - Councillor for Calamvale ward, Councillor Vicki Howard for Central ward, Mr Jim Varghese AM – National Chair for AIBC, Matthew Hayden – The cricket legend, all the past FICQ Presidents and representatives from FICQ member organisations, among others.

The event started at 5.30pm, and after the ceremonial welcome of the VIPs and distinguished guests, went on well into the night. The highlights of the event were the various dance and music by several teams from within the city. The flagship event of FICQ showcasing Indian culture and music attracts thousands of Indians every year, who are there to enjoy the music and dance programs and the overall Indian festivities. FICQ has been organising the Diwali festival in Brisbane since 2010, promoting harmony and multiculturalism.

Every year FICQ celebrate in a big way but this year due to pandemic it was celebrated in the iconic venue, signifying the success of the festival over the years.

President of the FICQ Shyam Das thanked the Palaszczuk Government and the Brisbane City Council for the multi-year

funding to support the festival.

In this regard he said, “We are privileged and honoured to hold Diwali in the heart of the city and share our culture and tradition, signifying our strong belief in multiculturalism and we are the most multicultural nation on earth.” His speech also emphasised the inner significance of Diwali as well as the importance of FICQ and its role. He also thanked his hard working team for putting up this iconic event.

Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minster for Multicultural Affairs Hon. Leanne Linard MP, who represented the Premier said, “This celebration of light over darkness and good over evil seems particularly relevant even in the turbulent year that we have had.”

On the occasion Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk wished everyone good health, happiness and peace through her message to the Indian Community.

Deputy High Commissioner of India P S Karthigeyan

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Minister for Multicultural Affairs Hon. Leanne Linard MP

8

INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

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9

INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

WORLD NEWS

Over 150 arrested Trump lashes out at reporter in London antiover election query lockdown protests Washington, Nov 28 (IANS): US President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter and called him “lightweight” after the latter questioned the President over the November 3 election outcome which has projected Democrat Joe Biden as the winner.

At a briefing, Jeff Mason, the Reuters White House correspondent, asked the President if he would concede if the Electoral College voted for President-elect Joe Biden in December, The Hill news website reported on Friday.

Trump responded by saying: “Don’t talk to me that way.”

A protester is detained by police officers during an anti-lockdown protest in London, Britain, on Nov. 28, 2020 (Ray Tang - Xinhua) London, Nov 29 (IANS): More than 150 people were arrested during protests in London against the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown in England, the second of its kind since the onset of the pandemic.

Saturday’s protests, which started from Marble Arch, were organised by the Save Our Rights UK group, the BBC reported.

The protesters, some dressed as Christmas elves, carried signs reading “All I want for Christmas is my freedom back”, “Ditch the face masks” and “Stop controlling us”.

Most of the them without face masks on, the demonstrators ignored police requests to disperse and instead chanted “shame on you”.

Earlier in the day, the police had warned against staging public gatherings which are banned under the incumbent coronavirus restrictions imposed in the wake of the second wave of the pandemic in the country.

After protests turned chaotic in Oxford Circus, Carnaby Street and Regent Street, traffic was halted as police officers tried to handcuff people on the ground in the middle of the road, the BBC reported.

In a statement, Ch Supt Stuart Bell of the Met Police said: “This was a challenging day for Met, City of London and British Transport Police officers and I would like to thank them for the

professionalism they have shown throughout the day.

“On Friday, we made it very clear how we would police this event, warning those looking to attend that they risked facing enforcement action if they attended a gathering in London.

“Today’s enforcement action is a direct result of those individuals deliberately breaking the law and at times, targeting our officers with aggression and causing disruption to the road network.”

Reacting to the anti-lockdown protests, Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “We’ve seen our police officers yet again do incredible work to ensure that they help to stop the spread of this awful virus.

“The people that are protesting today have been protesting for many months, and we’ve seen this over successive weekends.”

She added: “We ask everybody to be conscientious - we all know the regulations and the guidance, we have brought these measures in to save lives and to prevent preventable deaths.”

The protests came as a further 479 deaths were reported in the UK on Saturday, bringing the total to 58,030.

There were also a further 15,871 positive cases registered in the past 24 hours, which increased the overall infection tally to 1,609,141.

As the reporter was trying to apologise, the President interrupted him and added: “I’m the President of the United States.

Don’t ever talk to the President that way.”

The development comes after Trump said on Thursday that he will leave the White House if the Electoral College votes for the President-elect.

So far, Biden has won 80,218,808

U.S. President Donald Trump participating in a campaign rally in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, the United States (IANS) popular votes to date, compared to Trump’s 73,947,962, according to The Cook Political Report, an influential analytical site focused on US presidential, congressional and gubernatorial elections.

US media have projected that Biden has won 306 electoral votes, surpassing the 270-vote threshold for clinching the presidency.

Biden has declared victory and announced the first tranche of

his Cabinet nominees, including national security and foreign policy officials.

The General Services Administration has initiated Biden’s formal transition into the White House, but Trump, despite having directed his administration to facilitate the process, has vowed to continue the legal fight to challenge the election results.

Imran Khan’s Kashmir campaign bombs at Islamic meet

By Ateet Sharma New Delhi, Nov 29 (IANS): Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans shrill campaign to internationalise Kashmir has bombed after the 57-member Islamic bloc brushed aside Islamabads frenzied attempt to haul up India for abrogating Article 370 more than a year ago.

In the latest attempt to slam India for its decision to fully mainstream Kashmir with the rest of India, it was once again Pakistan’s light-headed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi who had an egg on his face.

Qureshi was left red-faced after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), holding its 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Niger’s Niamey, snubbed Pakistan by making no mention of Kashmir in its agenda.

Despite the embarrasment,

Qureshi, took the ‘Islamophobia’ route to mention Kashmir in his speech, another wasted exercise, as the participating ministers remained focused on session’s theme “United against Terrorism for Peace and Development”.

The OIC, through its Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen, had made it aptly clear that the agenda of this year’s Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) session would include a list of topics and “issues of concern” to the Muslim world.

“In addition to the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religious, the Council will discuss the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilizations,

cultures and religions, and other emerging matters,” the OIC, with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents, said in a statement released prior to the meeting.

The much-expected agenda though came as a huge shocker for Pakistan which had for long been demanding a special OIC meeting on Kashmir.

“The meeting has not been convened so far because the Saudis, who wield a virtual veto in the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries, has not supported Islamabad’s move. The latest omission of Kashmir from the agenda of the regular foreign ministers’ meeting comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are ‘unfulfilled expectations’,” Pakistan’s leading daily Dawn said in a report.

US Consulate in Kolkata launches project for women entrepreneurs Agartala/Kolkata, Nov 20 (IANS): The US Consulate General in Kolkata under the White House-led “Academy for Women Entrepreneurs” (AWE) project brings together 150 women entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners from five north eastern states of India and to boost their startups.

Confluence”, US Consulate Kolkata’s acting Consul General Monica Shie launched the AWE project on November 20 involving 150 women entrepreneurs of Nagaland, Meghalaya, Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, who will be mentored and supported through this two-year long project.

proud that we are joined by 150 change makers - the first cohort of India’s maiden AWE programme. We have launched the application announcement on September 1 and are overwhelmed with the record number of applications received, some from really remote corners of northeast India.

In partnership with Shillongbased think tank “Asian

Participating in a virtual discussion, Shie said, “I am so

This global programme would help the women to explore not

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just the fundamentals of business and capital, but build a better future for families, communities, and their states.”

entrepreneurship ecosystem in east and northeast India, with a particular emphasis on empowering women.”

Marie Royce, Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), US Department of State delivering special remarks through a video message said : “Expanding US Consulate General Kolkata’s work to strengthen the

Asian Confluence’s Executive Director Sabyasachi Dutta said that gender equitable entrepreneurship development is the need of the hour in realising the true potential of the northeastern region.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

WORLD NEWS

China sets up India vows to take action recreation centres to against Pakistan’s terrorism boost PLA’s morale New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): The morale of Chinese’s People Liberation Army (PLA) troops deployed along Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh under harsh weather and terrain conditions is extremely low, top intelligence agencies said.

To boost the troops’ morale, China has started to set up recreation centres comprising a fitness centre, heated swimming pools, hot tubs, library and other facilities, sources said.

China has deployed thousands of its troops along the LAC with India in a bid to change the status quo on the borders. Now, with the winter setting in and the temperature dipping to as low as minus 30-degree Celsius, the troops’ condition has worsened with less rotation on the ground.

“This is a matter of concern for the PLA,” said a source, adding that PLA troops’ “morale is extremely low now”.

The recreational centres also have computers and play stations, sources said. “One such recreation centre has come up near the Moldo Garrison, opposite India’s Chushul,” the source said.

The sources also said that China is facing a shortage of specialised cold climate clothing and has gone for emergency procurements. Also, PLA troops are struggling to survive in the

sub-zero temperatures with poor quality of clothing and accommodation, sources said.

The sources added that the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force ( JLSF) has constituted a quality supervision team for emergency procurement of extreme cold climate clothing.

This team has been tasked to ensure good quality clothing and fast delivery to forward area troops.

“Emergency plans such as the setting up of special working classes, scientific planning, factory supervision, on-site inspections and placement of military representatives in factories to supervise production have been put in place,” the source said. This team is reporting directly to the Central Military Commission.

Chinese and Indian troops are deployed along the LAC in extreme weather conditions. Both the countries are engaged in an eight-month-long standoff along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh. They are also engaged in military and diplomatic talks to resolve the border disputes.

Eight rounds of corps commander level talks had taken place between both the countries’ military and the ninth round of talks is scheduled very soon to disengage troops.

New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): India on November 21 slammed Pakistan for cross-border terrorism, warning that it will take every possible action to safeguard its national security.

In a reaction to the November 19 terror attack planned by the globally banned Pakistani terror outfit, Jaish-e-Mohammad, the Indian government summoned the High Commissioner of Pakistan and conveyed its message to him in New Delhi.

Lodging a strong protest at the terror attack, which was foiled by the alert Indian security forces, the ministry of external affairs demanded that Pakistan must desist from its policy of supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from its territory and dismantle the

terror infrastructure operated by terrorist outfits to launch attacks in other countries.

The ministry reiterated India’s long-standing demand that Pakistan fulfil its international obligations and bilateral commitments to not allow any territory under its control to be used for terrorism against India in any manner.

In an official statement issued by the ministry of external affairs, the government said that it is “firmly and resolutely committed to take all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism.”

A major terror attack was foiled

by Indian security forces in Nagrota, Jammu and Kashmir on November 19. Initial reports indicate the attackers to be

members of Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed ( JeM), a terrorist organisation proscribed by the United Nations and several countries.

The huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosive material indicate detailed planning for a major attack to destabilise the peace and security in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, in particular, to derail the ongoing democratic exercise of conducting of local District Development Council elections.

The government expressed its serious concerns at continued terror attacks by JeM against India.

JeM has been part of several attacks in India in the past, including the Pulwama attack in February, 2019.

Trilateral maritime exercise SITMEX-20 conducted in Andaman Sea New Delhi, Nov 22 (IANS): Naval forces of India, Singapore, and Thailand engaged in a trilateral maritime exercise ‘SITMEX-20’ in the Andaman Sea to strengthen mutual confidence and develop common understanding and procedures towards enhancing overall maritime security in the region.

As part of the second edition of the exercise, Indian Navy ships, including indigenously built anti-submarine warfare corvette Kamorta, and missile corvette Karmuk, participated in the two-day exercise which began on November 21, the Defence

Ministry said on November 22.

The first edition of SITMEX, hosted by the Indian Navy, was conducted off Port Blair in September 2019.

The SITMEX exercises are conducted to enhance mutual inter-operability and imbibing best practices between the Indian Navy, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), and Royal Thai Navy (RTN).

The 2020 edition of the exercise is hosted by RSN.

and RTN by the ‘Chao Phraya’ Class frigate ‘Kraburi’ in the exercise.

The exercise, conducted as a ‘non-contact, at sea only’ exercise in view of COVID-19 pandemic, highlights growing synergy, coordination and cooperation in the maritime domain between the three navies and maritime neighbours.

The two days of maritime drills witnessed the three navies participating in a variety of exercises, including naval manoeuvres, surface warfare exercises and weapons’ firing.

Modi at G20: Coordinated efforts key to recovery from pandemic US committed to enduring partnership

with Afghanistan, says Pompeo

New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 21 attended the 15th edition of the G20 Summit, chaired by Saudi Arabia this year.

Geneva, Nov 25 (IANS): US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in an address to Geneva Conference said that the United States remains committed to its own enduring partnership with Afghanistan, and to helping the Afghan peace negotiations be successful.

Speaking at the summit, Modi said that coordinated efforts by the largest economies of the world will surely lead to faster recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Modi tweeted that he had a very fruitful discussion with the G20 leaders and thanked Saudi Arabia for hosting the summit virtually.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin were among the top world leaders who joined Modi through video conferencing to discuss the global impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

“At the G20 Summit, I put forward a need to develop a new global index based on talent, technology, transparency and trusteeship towards the planet,” he said in another tweet.

“Transparency in our processes

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RSN is represented by the ‘Formidable’ Class frigate ‘Intrepid’ and ‘Endurance’ Class Landing Ship Tank ‘Endeavour’

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi helps in inspiring our societies to fight crisis collectively and with confidence. Spirit of trusteeship towards planet Earth will inspire us for a healthy and holistic lifestyle,” Modi added.

In another tweet, the Prime Minister said: “Multi-skilling and re-skilling to build a talent pool will enhance dignity and resilience of our workers. Value of new technologies should be measured by their benefit to humanity. #G20RiyadhSummit.”

“The start of the Afghan Peace Negotiations in Doha has opened a new and unprecedented opportunity set for peace and prosperity,” Pompeo said on November 24. “So too must all our countries and organisations help to maintain and advance gains achieved since 2001.”

He said that those gains include Afghanistan’s adherence to the rule of law; respect for its international obligations; and inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance.

“We must also emphasize the importance of respect for the rights of all Afghans, including

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US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo women, youth, and minority groups,” Pompeo said, TOLO news reported on November 25.

He added that the Afghan government must also do its part to implement essential elements of stability and security, just as the Afghan people expect.

“I’m talking about things like economic reforms; real anticorruption efforts, including our

drug interdiction; respect for human rights, including religious freedom; a welcome environment for the private sector; and steps toward self-reliance,” he said.

Pompeo said that the US is looking to its international partners, especially Afghanistan’s neighbours and others in the region, to help that country toward a more peaceful, secure, and sustainable future.

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WORLD NEWS

ASEAN distances from China’s Aus PM urges top army officers to share blame Covid vaccine diplomacy for Afghan war crimes

By S.P.S. Pannu New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS): In a major setback to China’s devious vaccine diplomacy, ASEAN members Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia on Friday sealed deals for procuring Covid-19 vaccines from Britain and the US. China deliberately delayed divulging details of the genetic material of the coronavirus, that originated in Wuhan at the end of 2019, which had handicapped efforts of other countries to develop a vaccine to fight the pandemic.

Since China was the only country to have key information about the deadly coronavirus in the initial stages, it got a head start for developing a vaccine. Ironically, the authoritarian nation then started offering its potential vaccine to other countries with strings attached so that it could gain more geopolitical clout.

This was reflected in the visits of senior Chinese leaders, including Premier Li Keqiang to the ASEAN region, during which these countries were assured that they would get “priority” for the vaccine. However, newspapers in Hong Kong and Singapore have reported that as a quid pro quo for the vaccine, the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian nations) members had been asked to support China at the World Health Organisation (WHO) as it has been facing the heat for hiding information on the highly contagious coronavirus.

Citing a source privy to Li’s meeting with ASEAN leaders, a reporter from China’s Xinhua news agency had also posted on his Weibo account that Li had made ASEAN support at the WHO a prerequisite for the assistance to fight Covid-19.

Beijing has been looking for support to ward off international pressure for an independent investigation into the origins of the virus in China which would expose the dubious role that it played in concealing information

Canberra, Nov 29 (IANS): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has called for senior defence officers to be held accountable for war crimes allegedly committed by soldiers in Afghanistan.

that could have saved thousands of lives worldwide. With the US blaming both China and the WHO for not disclosing the true facts about the dreaded virus, China is keen to replace Washington in playing a bigger role at the international organisation.

However, the ASEAN countries are wary of China as it has been flexing its military muscle and laying claim to their territories as part of President Xi Jinping’s increasingly expansionist foreign policy. The Philippines and Thailand on Friday secured millions of doses of the Covid-19 vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca.

The Thai government has signed a deal to procure 26 million doses of the vaccine to fight the pandemic. Officials in the Philippines said they would secure 2.6 million shots and were negotiating purchase of another 1 million doses. The UK government, which has secured 100 million doses of the vaccine is aiming to start distributing it for public use before Christmas.

Similarly, Malaysia on Friday signed an agreement with US pharma giant Pfizer to obtain its Covid-19 vaccine for 20 per cent of the population as it struggles to rein in the resurgence of coronavirus cases. The accord for 12.8 million doses to inoculate 6.4 million people is contingent on Pfizer’s vaccine being approved by the US Food and Drug

Administration and the Malaysian drug regulator, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said at a press conference.

In the global race to develop vaccines against Covid-19, the Oxford University and AstraZeneca candidate is seen as offering one of the best hopes for many developing countries because of its cheaper price and ability to be transported at normal fridge temperatures.

This vaccine is also being produced at the Serum Institute of India in Pune from where it is also expected to be despatched to other countries in Asia and Africa as part of the global war on the pandemic.

India also plans to supply the vaccine to Nepal. An assurance was given to the friendly neighbour on Friday at a highlevel meeting in Kathmandu between foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Nepal’s top leadership.

Shringla said that India has “at least five promising vaccine candidates at advanced stages of trials. Dozens of sites across the country are conducting vaccine trials on all ages and social groups.”

celebrated”.

London, Nov 28 (IANS): There are fears that statues of Winston Churchill and Mahatma Gandhi in the UK could be toppled after both were named in a Welsh government report reviewing historical figures as “complicit” in colonialism and slavery.

This comes amid Black Lives Matter protests, and brings into question the reputation of the former wartime Prime Minister Churchill and civil rights leader Gandhi.

The report said that “many reputations have been brought into question” and “there is a need to assess the culpability or otherwise of individuals who are publicly commemorated and

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Churchill, which has two buildings and 15 streets named in his honour, has been found to be “widely hated in South Wales mining communities for his actions as Home Secretary during the Tonypandy riots”, the report said.

Morrison revealed that he has advised that senior officers face disciplinary action for allowing the “warrior culture” identified by the inquiry to develop in the special forces.

“In each case, it’s important that not only is there accountability in the defence forces for individual

“That’s what I expect to be done.

That’s what I’ve made very clear through the Defence Minister, who has made that point to both the Chief of the Defence Force as well as the oversight panel,” the Prime Minister added.

Morrison’s comments came as Army Chief Rick Burr confirmed that 13 soldiers who were “accessories” or “witnesses” of alleged murders have been issued show cause notices, giving them 14 days to show why they should not be dismissed from the Australian Defence Force.

“This whole process will take time, and we will do this work methodically, deliberately, and in accordance with established process,” Burr told reporters.

180 doctors in Indonesia succumb to Covid-19 Jakarta, Nov 29 (IANS): A total of 180 doctors in Indonesia have died due to the novel coronavirus since the onset of the pandemic earlier this year, according to authorities.

residents, reports Xinhua news agency.

The Indonesian Medical Association said on Saturday that of the 180 doctors, 92 were general practitioners, 86 were specialists, and two were

Indonesia has so far reported a total of 527,999 coronavirus cases, with 441,983 recovered, and 16,646 deaths.

The victims belonged to East Java (38), followed by Jakarta (27), North Sumatra (24), Central Java (15) and West Java (12).

The assurance to Kathmandu comes at a time when the Nepalese leadership appears to be realising that falling into the clutches of China was not in the Himalayan country’s best interest.

Gandhi, Churchill statues in UK could be toppled

By Hitesh Tikoo

The government on November 19 released the findings of a landmark four-year war crimes inquiry, which found “credible evidence” that Australian soldiers murdered 39 prisoners and civilians in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016, recommending criminal proceedings against the soldiers, reports Xinhua news agency.

alleged acts, but also in the chain of command about those who had responsibilities and accountabilities in that chain of command,” he said.

The report added that Churchill “expressed a belief in the superiority of the AngloSaxon race”, was “opposed to dismantling the British Empire”, and failed “to take sufficient action to relieve the Bengal famine”.

The report also named Indian independence leader Gandhi, whose statue stands in the Welsh capital.

Gandhi has been implicated for “racism against Black South Africans”.

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An audit of memorials in Wales has assessed the historical figures they celebrate for “culpability” in the slave trade, imperialism, and racial bigotry, The Telegraph reported.

level of ignorance to be squeezed into one single paragraph, but the Welsh Government has exceeded itself in the bilge it has regurgitated about Winston Churchill.

Leading the audit, GayorLegall told The Guardian that some contentious memorials “could be moved to museums so people can see the links”.

“Churchill did not order troops with bayonets into Tonypandy.

Nor did any of Churchill’s actions make the Bengal Famine worse than the typhoon had already made it.”

I don’t see the point of destroying things, there’s enough death and destruction around as it is.”

Andrew Roberts, author of “Churchill: Walking with Destiny”, said: “It’s rare for quite such a

Roberts added that the Welsh government had authorised “tripe posing as history”.

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THE WORLD THIS WEEK Contributed by the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru*

By D Suba Chandran, Harini Madhusudan, Lokendra Sharma, Rashmi Ramesh and Akriti

The United States: Trump’s strategy to block the election results suffer reversals in Georgia and Pennsylvania.

Michigan.” According to the existing tally, Biden has won more than 50 per cent of the votes in Michigan, while Trump has only 47.89 per cent. Michigan would provide another 16 seats to Biden if the State has to certify the election results.

On 19 November, the CEO of Serum Institute of India announced that the Oxford vaccine would be priced at 1000 INR, and would be made available as early as February 2021, with a priority for the elderly and healthcare workers.

What does it mean?

What does it mean?

First, Trump is threatening the very foundations of the electoral

It has been almost a year since the breakout. Though vaccine development is a tedious process, scientists have projected that the protection may be relatively short-lived (likely a year), requiring more than one dosage per person.

The multiple vaccines in the race would help in meeting global demand. However, they would also bring out the differences between nations that have the means to develop or procure vaccinations and the developing world.

US President-Elect Joe Biden and US President Donald Trump What happened?

On 21 November, a judge in Pennsylvania dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Trump team against voter fraud. According to the judge, the lawsuit had “strained legal arguments without merit and speculative accusations” and was “unsupported by evidence.”

Earlier, Rudy Giuliani, the personal attorney for President Trump had filed a lawsuit that the mail ballots had widespread voter fraud. The Wall Street Journal quoted the judge saying: “In the United States of America, this cannot justify the disenfranchisement of a single voter, let alone all the voters of its sixth most populated state.”

Pennsylvania would certify the election results in the following days; according to the existing tally, Biden would win 20 seats from the State.

On 20 November 2020, in Georgia, the election officials after a “methodical hand recount” reconfirmed the victory of Biden by 12,670 votes. The New York Times (NYT) quoted Georgia’s secretary of state, Brad Raffensperger who bluntly declared on November 20, “I live by the motto that numbers don’t lie.” This would mean, Biden would win 16 seats from the State.

Also on 20 November 2020, according to another NYT report, a “delegation of seven Michigan Republicans, who had met with Mr Trump at the White House at his request, said they had no information “that would change the outcome of the election in

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system in the US democracy.

He is not only questioning the process legally but also inciting his supporters to undermine the election results by engaging in street protests. Several election officials have been receiving threats from the Trump supporters.

Second, the standing of the Republican party and its role in safeguarding the electoral process and the sanctity of the Presidential election system.

The party would face serious questions in the long run, for openly siding with Trump’s strategies to undermine the American vote and the larger values.

Third, questions over the larger electoral process. There have been a few issues in the larger process through which the US elects its President. Trump has revealed the loopholes and areas where the process needs fixing.

The COVID-19 vaccine race: The politics of development and distribution What happened?

On 18 November, Pfizer announced that its vaccine, developed with partner BioNTech SE, has tested to be 95 per cent effective in its final stages of clinical-stage data analysis.

It has sought an emergency authorization; the vaccine is expected to be available for use before Christmas.

Given that the news on vaccine developments is exciting, there is cause for concern even in countries like India. “Probably by 2024, every Indian would get vaccinated,” is the only official statement that would come from the leading vaccine lab. The vaccine conundrum brings to the fore the limitations faced during times of crisis despite the heights of technological growth.

ALSO IN NEWS

India opts out of the RCEP, cites negative consequences On 18 November, Indian Foreign Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that opting out of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was justified, as becoming its part would have resulted in “immediate negative consequences” for India’s economy. On 15 November, the 10 ASEAN countries plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand signed the RCEP, world’s largest free trade deal. Absence of India and the US would add to China’s rising influence in global commerce flows.

India: Phase-II of the Malabar exercise concludes with the US, Australia and Japan On 20 November, the navies of India, the US, Australia, and Japan concluded the Malabar naval exercise in the Arabian sea. The first phase took place from 3-6 November in the Bay of Bengal and the second phase took place from 17-20 November.

The exercise reflected the “commitment of the participating countries to support free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific as well as rule-based international order”, the Indian Navy said in a statement.

BRICS summit hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. This year’s theme is ‘Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth.’ He mentioned that ‘SelfReliant India’ can contribute to the global value chain in the postCOVID-19 economic scenario.

The leaders also called for joint effort on the COVID-19 vaccine development.

Pakistan: Conviction of Hafiz Saeed On 19 November, Jamat-udDawa ( JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed was sentenced to 10 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan in two more terror financing cases. In February 2020, he was also sentenced to 11 years in jail in two terror financing cases. His conviction is an outcome of Pakistan’s efforts to avoid punitive blacklisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

WORLD THIS WEEK complex. They were protesting against the introduction of a new infection protection bill in the German parliament.

In the ensuing clash of police and protestors, some police officers were injured and 190 protestors were arrested. The bill was passed by both houses of parliament and signed into law by German President FrankWalter Steinmeier on the same day. The opposition populist party Alternative for Germany has likened this law to the Enabling Act of 1933 which paved the way for Hitler’s dictatorship.

France: Macron’s ultimatum on the charter of republican values On 18 November, French President Emmanuel Macron gave an ultimatum to the French Council of the Muslim Faith (CFCM) to agree to a “charter of republican values” in 15 days. The charter would entail a rejection

Indian Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar The United Kingdom: Brexit talks shift to online mode On 19 November, the EU chief negotiator said that one of his team members has tested positive for COVID-19 and due to this, the talks with the UK would be suspended “for a short period.”

However, the UK government spokesperson later said that “the UK and EU teams have agreed to continue to negotiate remotely for the time being.” With just a few weeks of transition period left, both sides are under pressure to strike an agreement quickly.

Germany: Thousands protest against new infection protection law On 18 November, thousands of protestors gathered in central Berlin near the parliamentary

of political Islam and any foreign interference. CFCM is also asked to create a ‘National Council of Imams’ which would issue official accreditation to Imams in France.

A wide-ranging bill to tackle radicalization was also unveiled on the same day.

About the authors D Suba Chandran is Professor and Dean, School of Conflict and Security Studies, NIAS. Rashmi Ramesh, Harini Madhusudan, Akriti Sharma and Lokendra Sharma are PhD Scholars in the School of Conflict and Security Studies at NIAS. *The report has been modified

by India News due to space considerations.

India: PM Modi addresses BRICS Summit On 17 November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 12th

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Hafeez Saeed

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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA

Australia announces Australia to implement national emergency system for bushfires new strategy for koala conservation Canberra, Nov 14 (IANS): The government announced that it will introduce legislation that will allow it to declare a state of national emergency during future bushfire crises.

recognizes that such a declaration is necessary in an ‘all hazards’ approach to national natural disaster events, including those beyond fires and floods,” the government’s response said.

the fleets maintained by states and territories.

The government on November 13 released its response to the landmark Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, which was established in the wake of the 2019-20 “Black Summer” bushfires, reports Xinhua news agency.

“A National Emergency Declaration will facilitate expeditious national responses, allowing provision of capabilities beyond the capacities of individual states and territories.”

“The Commonwealth encourages states and territories to work collaboratively and with industry to build Australian-based aerial fire fighting capacity, consistent with their sovereign obligations to maintain appropriate operational response capabilities.”

David Littleproud, the Emergency Management Minister, said that legislation for a state of national emergency system recommended by the inquiry would be introduced to Parliament before the end of 2020, giving the federal government the power to help states and territories facing threats even if they have not asked for it.

Canberra, Nov 23 (IANS): The government on November 23 announced a new strategy to protect the country’s iconic koalas.

In a statement, Environment Minister Sussan Ley said that under the new strategy a national koala population census will be undertaken to identify key habitat areas and protect them, reports Xinhua news agency.

“This is a line in the sand, we’re ruling a line under where we are on koalas right now.

We are doing this because it needs to happen. I have been so frustrated that no one could give me the data I needed... It’s just not there - only in patches.

I don’t think there’s been enough national leadership on this iconic species before,” she added.

The policy includes A$14 million in funding for habitat restoration and A$4 million for koala health research and the census.

It will also make it mandatory for state and territory governments to report on koala populations and conservation strategies on an

annual basis.

The data collected in the initial census will be used by the government to prevent state and territory governments from weakening habitat protection, potentially putting the federal government on a collision course with state planning regimes for agricultural land clearing and urban development.

Helene Marsh, the chair of the Threatened Species Scientific Committee, described the census as a “very significant move,” saying that there were “lots of places where koalas occur where we know very, very little” about the population.

“It will enable us to have the empirical data on what are the most important populations in the region, and will set a firm baseline for trends,” she said.

“The Commonwealth government supports and welcomes this recommendation which

The royal commission made 80 recommendations in its final report, which it handed down on October 30, covering a range of areas from coordination between governments to the role of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and climate data.

The federal government announced support for most of the 55 recommendations directed at governments but said it would not follow through on the recommendation to establish a national aerial fire fighting fleet, acknowledging the “maturity, experience and effectiveness” of

“The Commonwealth has no desire to replicate or replace these capabilities,” it said in its response.

Thirty-three people died, including nine fire fighters, in the 2019-20 bushfires, which burned from July 2019 to March 2020.

The smoke blanketed much of Australia, including capital cities, and contributed to hundreds of deaths.

Nearly 3 billion animals were killed or displaced, and the fires harmed many threatened species and ecological communities.

Australian elite troops killed Afghan civilians, claims ADF Canberra, Nov 19 (IANS): In a much-awaited report released on November 19, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) acknowledged there was “credible evidence” that the country’s elite soldiers unlawfully killed 39 Afghan civilians.

“It will put the whole koala strategy at national level on a completely different footing than it’s been in the past.”

The ADF report, based on findings from a four-year inquiry into misconduct by Australian forces, said that 19 current or former service members will be probed by the police over the killings of “prisoners, farmers or civilians” between 2009 and 2013, the BBC reported.

In the 2019-20 “Black Summer” wildfires, roughly 5,000 koalas had perished.

The report said 25 Special Forces soldiers had participated in unlawful killings directly or as

“accessories”, across 23 separate incidents.

The inquiry, conducted by Major Gen Justice Paul Brereton, conducted interviews with more than 400 witnesses.

It also found evidence that junior soldiers were told to get their first kill by shooting prisoners, in a practice known as “blooding”; weapons and other items were planted near Afghan bodies to cover up crimes; and an additional two incidents could constitute a war crime of “cruel treatment”.

Addressing the media on November 19, ADF chief General Angus Campbell said none of the incidents could be “described as

being in the heat of battle”.

“None were alleged to have occurred in circumstances in which the intent of the perpetrator was unclear, confused or mistaken,” the BBC quoted General Campbell as saying.

Afghanistan said it had been assured by Australia that it was committed to “ensuring justice”.

The office of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said Prime Minister Scott Morrison had called on the phone to express his “deepest sorrow” over the findings.

Recently, Morrison warned the report contained “difficult and hard news for Australians” about its special forces.

ADF chief supports mandatory body cameras for soldiers Canberra, Nov 22 (IANS): Chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Angus Campbell on November 22 threw his support behind mandatory body cameras for soldiers in the wake of a landmark war crimes inquiry.

Addressing the media, Campbell said that introducing body cameras would increase accountability within the special forces serving in Afghanistan after a four-year inquiry found “credible evidence” that Australian soldiers committed 39 unlawful killings in the country between 2005 and 2016, reports

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Xinhua news agency.

The inquiry also uncovered a series of cover-ups undertaken by the Australian soldiers.

“We will work through that recommendation (of body cameras). I think it is a very good idea. It creates a degree of objectivity and a capacity for learning, development and record keeping,” Campbell told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in his first interview since the report was released on November 19.

“That material would become a digital archive, permanently

and securely held so that if claims were to arise, they would contribute to understanding what may have happened,” he said.

The alleged war crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan during their military mission have drawn strong reaction from Kabul government, which condemned the killings of innocent people.

It has asked for more investigations into the issue, the punishment of the perpetrators and compensation from the Australian government to the Afghan victims’ families.

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The ABC has previously published eyewitness accounts of shootings of unarmed Afghan civilians

by Australian Special Forces soldiers.

The Inspector-General of the ADF has been conducting a wide-ranging but highly secretive inquiry into allegations that Australian Special Forces members committed war crimes, including the murder of civilians, in Afghanistan since early 2016, according to the ABC. The report is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Chief of the ADF Angus Campbell Prime Minister Scott Morrison has vowed that allegations of war crimes committed by Australian soldiers would be pursued until “justice is indeed served”.

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Stability and strength in Queensland cabinet line-up Brisbane, Nov 11: Governor Paul de Jersey formally invited Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk to form government.

It also establishes a Minister for Hydrogen recognising the importance of this valuable new energy source and a Minister for Water.

The Premier said she expected her ministers to focus squarely on Queensland’s economic recovery and providing the services all Queenslanders - including seniors and those in regional Queensland - need.

“Queenslanders expect us to get on with implementing our

First Nations members make history at Parliament House Brisbane, Nov 25: A ceremonial blessing at Parliament House today marked the first time in Queensland’s history that three First Nations peoples have been sworn in as Members of the State’s Parliament.

It is the Premier’s third term.

The Premier said the ministry reflects the importance of powering Queensland’s economic recovery and the continued health response.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk Economic Recovery Plan,” the Premier said.

“They expect the roads, schools and hospitals we need and the jobs that go with building them.

“It is our job to get on with the job and that’s exactly what we will do.”

NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

Minister for Communities and Housing, Minister for the Digital Economy and Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch, Member for Cook Cynthia Lui and Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum were part of the traditional blessing this morning to celebrate the important milestone at the commencement of the 57th Parliament.

Minister Enoch said the momentous occasion would continue to point Queensland towards exploring the truth of our shared history.

“This is the first time ever, that three First Nations peoples have been sworn into Queensland’s

parliament at the same time and I am so proud to stand beside my colleagues Lance and Cynthia in this moment,” Minister Enoch said.

Palaszczuk Government returned at the 2020 election.

“First Nations people have occupied and cared for this country for 65,000 years and moments like this drive us towards a conversation to fully understand our relationships with each other and propel our actions towards the next steps in agreement making.

“I’m humbled to walk beside Leeanne, Cynthia and the rest of the Palaszczuk Government as we continue the tracks toward Treaty and Reconciliation in our great state.”

“The Palaszczuk Government has committed to a path to treaty or treaties in this state. This is a bold commitment, but one that has been generations in the making and one that will potentially be among the greatest achievements of this generation.”

Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said he was filled with immense pride to see all three First Nations members of the

“Our caucus is diversity in action, not just words,” Mr McCallum said.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said she was honoured to be one of three First Nations parliamentarians and the only Torres Strait Islander serving under the Palaszczuk Government.

“Having the ability to receive a traditional blessing and take oath for my second term with my Aboriginal brother and sister, symbolises the intention of a true progressive government that is focused on an inclusive future for all,” Ms Lui said.

Assistant ministers to further boost Queensland’s economic recovery Brisbane, Nov 12: Assistant Ministers will strengthen Queensland’s ongoing recovery and growth following the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on the Palaszczuk Government’s fresh priorities for the next term.

COVID Economic Recovery, Health Infrastructure, Hydrogen, Renewable Energy and local Train Manufacturing are among the important areas of focus for the assistant ministry.

Construction set to commence on new mental health inpatient unit in Hervey Bay

Brisbane, Nov 25: Construction on a new acute mental health inpatient unit at Hervey Bay Hospital is set to start this week, marking the beginning of $39.6 million worth of investment to more than double mental health bed capacity on the Fraser Coast.

an important expansion of local mental health services and will also be the base of operations for the Community Acute Care Team.

Following completion of the unit’s detailed design and the awarding of the main construction contract to Woollam Constructions, early works are set to get under way at the site, which sits next to the new emergency department, facing Urraween Road.

“This is yet another sign of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to mental health services in regional Queensland.”

Minister for Health Yvette D’Ath said: “This new 22-bed unit marks

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Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the appointments will also recognise the vital role of Queensland’s regions.

regions stretching from the Far North to Ipswich,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“They will work with my new Ministers to ensure that every aspect of Government endeavour is comprehensively addressed, especially our health and economic response to COVID. “Bart Mellish will be my Assistant Minister, with COVID Economic Recovery among his responsibilities, while Charis Mullen will be Assistant Minister for Treasury and Julieanne Gilbert will focus on Health Infrastructure.

“Assistant Ministers come from

“Regional issues will be front of mind for Nikki Boyd as Assistant

“The inpatient unit will also mean more jobs for the Fraser Coast, with an estimated 115 construction-related jobs created during the build and up to 30 additional ongoing health-related roles once in the region.”

Wide Bay Hospital and Health Board Chair Peta Jamieson said she was looking forward to construction starting on the project, which would be a gamechanger for mental health on the Fraser Coast.

Minister for Local Government.

“As key areas of Queensland’s future growth, the Education and Tourism portfolios will be assisted by Brittany Lauga and Michael Healy.

“The appointment of Bruce Saunders as Assistant Minister for Train Manufacturing reflects our election commitment to bring local train building back to Maryborough.

“And Lance McCallum will help ensure that our increasing focus on Hydrogen as a fuel of the future gets the backing it needs as we work towards 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.”

“It will enable more timely access for consumers and help to divert mental health presentations away from the emergency department.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari said: “For the first time, there will be mental health inpatient capacity at Hervey Bay, and that’s great news for the local community.

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“Developing and expanding our inpatient and community mental health services is a key part of our strategic plan, Care Comes First… Through Patients’ Eyes,” she said.

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MAKE IN INDIA

Make in India: Emerging Opportunities As world economies restart their engines in a bid to regain lost ground due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India too shows signs of economic buoyancy and promise. India’s Make in India initiative holds a key to the global economic revival, something that should interest Australian government ministries, corporate sector, entrepreneurs, institutions seeking R&D collaborations and Australia Inc in general, among others. India assumes greater importance as several major world economies including American, Japanese, German, British and South Korean look to move out and diversify their businesses from China. India has jumped to 63rd rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Development 2020 report, and has also been ranked as the 9th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment destination in 2019 by the World Investment Report 2020 of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

MEDIA

Mining the future

lakh tonnes, natural gas (utilized)

The Global Entertainer India has a large broadcasting and distribution industry, comprising approximately 900 satellite TV channels, 6,000 Multi-system operators, around 60,000 local cable operators, 7 Direct to Home (DTH) operators and few IPTV service providers.

India has 118,239 registered publications (newspapers and periodicals), close to 2,500 multiplexes and more than 570 mn Internet users – second largest base after China, and is expected to reach out to 640 mn by 2019.

• By 2022, Media & Entertainment industry is expected to reach $34 bn at a compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10% Up to 100% FDI allowed in Teleports, DTH, Multi-System Operator, cable networks in Direct Attached Storage areas, mobile TV, Headend-in-the-Sky Broadcasting Services 100% FDI is allowed in Publishing/ Printing of scientific and Technical magazines/ Speciality journals/ Periodicals under the government route Industry Scenario The Indian Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry will touch $ 34.8 bn by 2022. The Indian M&E industry is projected to grow at a pace of 14% over the period 2016-2021, outshining the global average of 4.2% CAGR, with advertising revenue expected to increase at 15.3% during the same period.

• Small Hydro Power: 5 GW

India is home to 1,531 operating mines and produces 95 minerals – 4 fuel-related minerals, 10 metallic minerals, 23 non-metallic minerals, 3 atomic minerals and 55 minor minerals. India is the 2nd largest producer of coal.

Coal production grew at CAGR 4.6% over FY14-FY19 (to 730.35 MT) and is expected to grow 6-7% year-over-year (Y-o-Y) over FY20 as miners focus on the surface mining of coal. Coal’s share in India’s primary energy consumption is expected to be 48% in 2040. India is the 2nd largest crude steel producer in the world, generating an output of 106.5 MT in 2018, a growth of 3.7% Y-o-Y. India’s steel consumption rose 7.5% Y-o-Y and 7.9% Y-o-Y over the last 2 years, outpacing a 2.1% to 5% growth globally.

• Over 2030-31, crude steel demand/production is forecasted to reach 255 MT. • Per capita finished steel consumption also expected to rise to 158 kg by 2030-31 (from 74.1 kg in 2018).

The country’s FDI Policy allows:

• Television is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.7% over the next five years as both advertisement and subscription revenues are projected to exhibit strong growth at 14.4% and 14.8% respectively.

100% FDI through automatic route in the steel and mining sectors

• Print is projected to continue its growth at 7.3%, largely on the back of continued readership growth in vernacular markets and advertisements’ confidence in the medium, tier II and tier III cities.

Industry Scenario

• Films segment is expected to bounce back and is forecasted to grow at CAGR of7.7% as the revenue streams broaden.

• Digital media overtook filmed entertainment in 2019 to become the third-largest segment of the M&E sector.

• Animation and VFX is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.4% over 2016-2021.

METALS AND MINING www.indianews.com.au

100% FDI for coal and lignite under automatic route

With the launch of the National Mineral Policy 2019, India presents a major opportunity for investors. India has large reserves of iron ore, bauxite, chromium, manganese ore, baryte, rare earth and mineral salts.

The Metals and Mining sector in India is expected to witness a major reform in the next few years, owing to reforms such as Make in India Campaign, Smart Cities, Rural Electrification and a focus on building renewable energy projects under the National Electricity Policy as well as the rise in infrastructure development.

The production level of important minerals in March 2020 were: coal 958 lakh tonnes, lignite 42

2323 million cu. m., petroleum (crude) 27 lakh tonnes, bauxite 1634 thousand tonnes, chromite 582 thousand tonnes, copper conc. 11 thousand tonnes, gold 153 kg, iron ore 204 lakh tonnes, lead conc. 26 thousand tonnes, manganese ore 181 thousand tonnes, zinc conc. 117 thousand tonnes, apatite & phosphorite 133 thousand tonnes, limestone 272 lakh tonnes, magnesite 8 thousand tonnes and diamond 3213 carat.

The production of important minerals showing positive growth during March 2020 over March 2019 includes, chromite (15.9%), iron ore (8.3%) and coal (4.3%).

RENEWABLE ENERGY Creating a sustainable world In 2019, India was ranked as the fourth most attractive renewable energy market in the world. India will be the largest contributor to the renewables upswing in 2021, with the country’s annual additions almost doubling from 2020, as a large number of auctioned wind and solar PV projects are expected to become operational.

The country has set an ambitious target of 450 GW of renewable power by 2030. This is the world’s largest expansion plan is in renewable energy.

Up to 100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route for renewable energy generation and distribution projects subject to provisions of The Electricity Act, 2003.

Industry Scenario Renewable energy sources have a combined installed capacity of 89+ GW. As of 30 September 2020, the total installed capacity for Renewables is 89+ GW with the following break up: • Wind power: 38 GW • Solar Power: 36 GW • Bio Power: 10 GW

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Wind energy capacity in India has increased by 1.7 times in the last 4 years. Further to this, record 100 bn+ units of renewable electricity generating last year.

Solar power capacity has increased by more than 11 times in the last five years from 2.6 GW to 28.18 GW in March 2019.

• 42 solar parks of aggregate capacity 23,499 MW have been approved in 17 states up to March 2019.

• Kurnool (1,000 MW) and BhadlaII (648 MW) Solar Parks are fully operational.

• Largest Solar Park of 2,000 MW in Pavagada is under installation.

HEALTHCARE Working towards building a healthier India Healthcare industry in India comprises hospitals, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine, medical tourism, health insurance and medical equipment.

The industry is growing at a tremendous pace owing to its strengthening coverage, services and increasing expenditure by public as well as private players.

Growing incidence of lifestyle diseases, rising demand for affordable healthcare delivery systems due to the increasing healthcare costs, technological advancements, the emergence of telemedicine, rapid health insurance penetration and government initiatives like e-health together with tax benefits and incentives are driving healthcare market in India.

• By 2020, India is expected to rank amongst the top 3 healthcare markets in terms of incremental growth.

• By 2020, the healthcare information technology market is expected to grow 1.5 times from current $1 bn.

• By 2022, the diagnostics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.4% to reach $32 bn from $5 bn in 2012.

• During 2015-20, the in-patient market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13%.

• By 2020, the Indian telemedicine market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% to reach $32 mn from $15 mn.

• Over the next 10 years, National Digital Health Blueprint can unlock incremental economic value of over $200 bn for the health sector.

100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route for greenfield projects. For investments in brownfield projects, up to 100% FDI is permitted under the government route.

Industry Scenario Healthcare industry in India is projected to reach $372 bn by 2022. Healthcare industry in India comprises hospitals, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine, medical tourism, health insurance and medical equipment.

The industry is growing at a tremendous pace owing to its strengthening coverage, services and increasing expenditure by public as well as private players.

• The hospital industry in India, accounting for 80% of the total healthcare market, is witnessing a huge investor demand from both global as well as domestic investors. The hospital industry is expected to reach $132 bn by 2023 from $ 61.8 bn in 2017; growing at a CAGR of 16-17%.

• The Indian Medical Tourism market is expected to grow from its current size of $3 bn to $7-8 bn by 2020 • The diagnostics industry in India is currently valued at $4 bn.

The share of organized sector is almost 25% in this segment (15% in labs and 10% in radiology).

• The primary care industry is currently valued at $13 bn. The share of organized sector is practically negligible in this case.

• Over 50,000 Ayushman Bharat centres, which aim at providing primary health care services to communities closer to their homes, are operational in India Source: INVEST INDIA, Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India

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Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

EDITORIAL

Putting ‘Nation First’ Co-innovation, Net-zero targets will potentially shape key policy in the line of duty considerations to India’s renewable energy expansion

By Dr. Nandakumar Janardhanan

C

ontroversy and Virat Kohli seem to have become an unbreakable pair. One or the other controversy seems to be clinging on to the Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli, more than his gear in recent months.

It cannot be denied that the flamboyant Indian captain has infused a newfound spirit of never say die attitude in his team players topped with a strict fitness regime to take on their competitors, specially the Australians. The team follows suit because the captain leads by example. His fiery and explosive demeanour on the field and countering sledging with sledging in tense situations has become the new normal.

As a result, his presence on the field and outside in press conferences remains central to Team India putting up a fighting performance and getting over the line. There is no doubt that during the tour of India to Australia, Team India will look to feed off his aggressive captaincy and cricketing greatness to match up to the might of the fully packed Australian team.

But, for that he needs to lead from the front through the tour without courting any more controversy. However, the Indian captain has barely recovered from the controversies triggered by the spat between his wife Anushka Sharma and Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar during the recently concluded Indian Premier League, and his remarks on the social media telling his fans to ‘leave India’ if they did not like Indian cricketers. His decision to seek ‘parental leave’ to be with his wife, who is expected with their first child, after the first Test has triggered another controversy. Quite expectedly, the Indian fans have vented out their frustrations over the social media and Indian cricketing legends like Kapil Dev too have expressed their dismay over his decision to leave the tour in between. Former Indian Skipper Kapil Dev in a recent interview said that ‘parent leave’ is a luxury for the current team which was not available to them.

He recalled that his teammate Sunil Gavaskar was unable to see his newly born son Rohan for two and a half months while he was on the tour of West

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Indies in 1976.

It is also now a stuff of legend that Sachin Tendulkar was playing the 1999 world cup in England when he lost his father. He flew back to attend his father’s funeral and later rejoined the team for the rest of the tournament sporting a black arm band. Unfortunately, in the current pandemic scenario, due to quarantine regulations, this option is not available for Kohli. Saurav Ganguly, the current President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, who approved Kohli’s ‘parental leave’, was himself unable to see his daughter Sana, when he was touring South Africa in 2001. In 2015, during the World Cup in Australia, M.S. Dhoni’s wife Shakshi was expecting their daughter Reva, and the captain chose to stay put with the team. At being asked he said, “Not really…as of now I am on national duties so I think everything else can wait. The World Cup is a very important campaign.”

No wonder, the fans and cricketing legends have expressed their disproval of Kohli’s decision to avail the ‘parental leave’ after the first Test in a four Tests series.

Australian tour is always a gruelling experience, mentally, physically and otherwise, and the absence of the skipper will severely dent India’s hopes of winning back to back Test series in Australia.

Many also argue that the Indian defence personnel deployed in India on the border and in conflict areas, have been unable to attend to their family commitments, including bereavements, in the line of duty. So why should there be an exception for the cricketers?

This Nation Comes First principle is what the Indian cricket legends expect Virat Kohli to uphold. It will be a great welcome twist to the unfolding controversy if Anushka Sharma herself advises King Kohli to stay put with his troops and not abandon them on the battlefield mid-way. Well, there is every possibility that it may turn out this way because it is a great opportunity for India’s power couple to win back their fans and public support. India News too hopes that the Indian skipper will put ‘Nation First’.

By expanding the renewable energy installed capacity two and a half times in the last six years, India has made remarkable progress in strengthening its energy access and energy security goals. In the recently held third Global Renewable Energy Investment Meet, the Indian Prime Minister has also highlighted that the country is all set to further expand its non-fossil fuel based power generation to an all-time high. As the domestic policy momentum can catapult India as the major producer of clean energy, it is important to understand what the challenges and opportunities arethat the country will encounter in its future trajectory.

First, with regard to the climate commitments, India remains to be one of the fewer countries that can potentially achieve a 2 degree goal. Under the Paris Climate Agreement, the country has also committed to reducing its emission intensity of GDP by 30 to 35% by 2030 from that in 2005 levels. In addition, the country also has committed to promoting renewable energy sector and aimed at boosting the installed capacity to 175GW. India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) also positions that it would get 40% of the total installed capacity in power sector from non-fossil fuels. For all these above stated goals, the country’s energy sector policies are critical and is expected to play a proactive role as was seen the past few years.

The country’s total renewable energy installed capacity was estimated at80GW in 2014 and with active policies to support the sector, the same has reached over 138GW in early 2020. This also indicate the huge potential for the sector to expand further.

According to NITI Aayog, the policy institution under the government, the country’s large untapped renewable energy potential which include over 750GW solar, over 300 GW of wind could help meet the sector’s huge development plans. However, there are three sets of challenges India will need to address to meet its climate as well as clean energy goals. First, developing supply lines for equipment and machinery; second, addressing the concerns pertaining to domestic coal sector; and third managing a sustainable recovery from the pandemic.

India has been heavily dependent on external supplies of renewable energy equipment and machinery.

According to estimates, Chinese firms supply bulk of the imported

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equipment used in the renewable sector. In solar sector alone, the country imported equipment worth US$1,179.89 million during the first eight months of fiscal year 2019-20. Continuing this dependency will affect in two ways. This will post a permanent challenge to the domestic industry which has been struggling to grow; anda much awaited domestic industry expansion to cater to the employment generation plans could continue in hibernation. Changing this remains to be one of the major prerequisites for achieving exponential growth of the renewable energy sector. In order to achieve that, the country needs to not only enhance the capacity of the domestic equipment industry, but also make available the needed technology, raw material supply as well as enabling policy environment. With regard to policy environment, the central government’s support for setting up new facilities for manufacturing renewable energy equipment in states is one of the notable welcome steps. This also need to be accompanied with policies and investment that encourage innovation and collaboration in the advanced technology arena. Coinnovation – jointly developing, manufacturing and scaling up - will need to be promoted with countries that have advanced technology. Collaboration with countries like Japan will not only help bring in advanced technology to India, but also will lead to its cost effective production and manufacturing which will be a win-win business model for both.

Second, renewable sector’s expansion is extremely important in the context of achieving a net-zero emissions, especially for countries like India that have been heavily dependent on fossil fuels to meet their domestic energy demand. Among Asian countries, Japan, China and Korea have announced their respective target date for achieving net-zero emissions. With regard to India, a feasible target to achieve the same may not be any soon, primarily due to the fact that there has been heavy dependence on coal generated power. Achieving the same will be contingent on how soon the country will be able to direct adequate investment in the alternative energy sectors as well as developing adequate technology. The emissions from energy sector as well as from industry and transport will need to be systematically addressed and a long term plan needs to be developed by India towards this.

Third, the pandemic has brought in significant level of damage to the country’s economy as well

as human health. Resuming to the normal business activities especially in the industry and manufacturing sector is a bigger challenge as several states are facing a second wave of the pandemic. India has already announced three stimulus package which makes the cumulative economic recovery amount equivalent to 15% of the country’s GDP. Here the key question is about the pathway India plan to choose in terms of implementing its long term economic recovery. Though the pandemic had made remarkable level of damage, it is important for the policy makers to grab the opportunity redesigning the domestic policies towards energy sector. The policies should contribute a sustainable recovery, while keeping in view a pathway that can aim for net zero emissions. This also gives an opportunity for the country to actively promote innovation in all spheres of economy with an objective of reducing environmental footprint. Promoting domestic manufacturing of renewable energy equipment and machinery will also take into account the environmental impacts and devise strategies to minimize the same.

India’s renewable energy expansion plans can help in strengthening clean energy access of millions of people while also making the country a major player in the global energy equipment and machinery market. In order to achieve this, co-innovation at an institutional level need to be promoted by the government, and while the development of renewable energy sector contribute to a potential net zero target, greater focus will be needed on the life-cycle emissions of renewable energy sector and its impact on the environment.

Dr Nandkumar Janardhanan is Research Manager, Climate and Energy and Regional Coordinator, South Asia at Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, Japan.

He is also fellow at the Institute for Australia India Engagement, Brisbane.

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INDIA NEWS “I can hear the roar of women’s silence”, Thomas Sankara once said. Women in every part and corner of the world are now making their mark and setting the bar high. In a patriarchal world they are fighting their

Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11 brings to you inspirational stories of some of the extraordinary women among us displaying grit, kindness and leadership of the highest variant. NAARI is a column envisaged by INDIA NEWS Consulting News Editor Ananya

way to rightful and muchdeserved place on the high table challenging stereotypes. They are changing the world for the better and accomplishing herculean undertakings, where others would not dare to tread. INDIA NEWS

NAARI Dhyani paying tribute to women leaders among us who are changing our world without much salutation that they deserve. It is our humble initiative to say ‘thank you’ to them.

“Ain’t no mountain high enough” Introduction “There ain’t no mountain high enough Ain’t no valley low enough Ain’t no river wide enough To keep me from getting to you” These lines from Marvin Gaye’s song best define our NAARI of today. Breaking the glass ceiling and soaring high, whilst ensuring the well-being of everyone around her captures the gist of our “NAARI”. One such selfless human being with the strength of a healer, is an Anganwadi worker Renu Vasave, who personifies generosity. An embodiment of inexhaustible will power, personal strength and compassion, her service to the rural communities of Maharashtra has been lauded far and wide. A front-line worker of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in India, Renu is amongst the 200,000 Anganwadi workers in Maharashtra who has become an inspiration for the entire community.

No help is too small The 27-year-old Renu, an Anganwadi volunteer from the Chimalkhadi centre in Maharashtra has left no stone unturned to provide relief to the tribes of Akkalkuva and Dhadgaon in Nandurbar district. Under the ICDS programme, Anganwadi volunteers play a significant role in encouraging child growth and development. Renu Vasave has become a driver of social change and a catalyst for growing human compassion and community support for better care of young children and new mothers in these villages. Traditionally, the locals would come to the Chimalkhadi centre for resources and assessment and Renu would assist them, but the last few months have been particularly difficult. The COVID-19 pandemic had left such a debilitating fear amongst the community that people refrained from attending the Anganwadi centres, disrupting the supply of resources and material. A large number of the community members were left stranded in their villages with no food and water. Vasave realised the gravity of the situation and took it upon herself to reach out to the stranded community members in the far-flung areas of Chimalkhadi.

Where there is a will there’s a way “There were days when I would work for over 18 hours flat”, recalls Renu. The villages that were in dire need of assistance

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had no easy approach and access, making her task all the more challenging. To reach these people with kilos and kilos of supplies, she had to cross the mighty Narmada River and brave the difficult terrains of the hills of Nandurba, leaving her to cover over 20 kilometres, one way.

Vasave would have chosen to fend for herself and her young family and not be bothered with helping the stranded community. But the intrinsic compassion to help those in need motivated her to undertake this gruelling journey, five days a week. Considering her lean physical frame, the physical effort she had to put in to row the boat is no mean feat. One needs courage to row across the Narmada for hours and cross the hills of Nandurba on foot. Her daily duties included bringing food and medicine supplies, examining children and young mothers, and all with enormous good cheer while the country remained under lockdown.

A benchmark for humanity Renu elucidates, “COVID has surely caused a lot of distress among the rural communities and these have been very testing times, but we should remember to ensure that no one gets left out”.

One key task for her has been educating the families about the perils and precautions associated with the pandemic. She goes

knocking from door to door to explain the impact and dangers of the pandemic and shares the fears of the villagers. “Uncertainty can be very unsettling, but certainty helps you evaluate and make better decisions for you and your family”, says Renu.

This goes a long way to showcase what a commendable woman Renu Vasave is and the incredible impact her kindness has had on the community.

For the villagers, Renu is nothing short of an angel during the lockdown when they have been fighting for their survival. Her empathy has touched countless hearts and her courage has set an example for others to emulate her philosophy—nothing is impossible.

To live for others

tall to symbolise the kindness and grit of human spirit. Her act is a potent reminder that there is still a lot of good left in the world. “I understand that I have taken up quite a challenge, but nothing gives me more happiness than carrying out my duties

husband Ramesh Vasave who has encouraged and supported her mission, balancing her multiple roles as a wife, mother and an Anganwadi worker. An African proverb says that it takes an entire village to raise a child, but Renu has chosen to look after

as an Anganwadi worker with such responsibility”, she reflects with pride. Being a mother to a toddler can be quite a taxing responsibility, especially for someone like Renu who has taken up the responsibility of serving the community as her own. “I take her to work with me on some days, it’s quite an adventure”, she shares. Renu is grateful to her

children of the village on her own.

Renu Vasave

The year 2019-20 has been very challenging for the world when mankind has been stretched to its very limits and endurance.

In an apocalyptic situation, when people, governments and international organisations did not know how to deal with the pandemic and how it will unfold, Renu Vasave has stood

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India News salutes the remarkable hero in Renu Vasave and wishes to spread the message how a single woman can change the world. There is nothing nobler than helping the ones in need and it can start with small steps and gestures because no help is too small.

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Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

ENERGY & RESOURCES

India working to bring Indian govt. permits small farmers’ down carbon footprint pastureland for solar plant development by 30-35%: Modi New Delhi, Nov 13 (IANS): In an attempt to bring even small farmers under its solarisation drive, government has allowed use of pastureland and marshy land for the development of grid connected solar-power plants.

The ministry of new and renewable energy had amended guidelines of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyaan Scheme is expanding its scope to include new areas for setting up of solar power plants in rural agricultural areas.

New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 21 said India is trying to reduce its carbon footprint by 30-35 per cent and working to double its oil refining capacity in the next 5 years.

He stressed on Gujarat’s solar power movement and said that the energy sector can provide growth and jobs alike. He was virtually addressing the 8th Convocation of Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University in Gandhinagar.

“India is trying to reduce its carbon footprint by 30-35% today.

The world was amazed when they got to know about it. We need to increase natural gas usage by 4 times in our need for energy. We are also working to double the oil refining capacity of the nation in the next 5 years,” the PM said.

He also said that India is moving swiftly on the solar energy scale.

“Today, the per unit cost has dropped from Rs 12-13 to under Rs 2,” he claimed and added that Solar power has become an “integral part of the nation”.

Modi added that the aim is 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022.

Though acknowledging that the students who will be graduating are facing an unusual time due to the pandemic, the Prime Minister told them to follow the 4-Ps’.

“It is not an easy thing to graduate at a time when the world is facing such a big crisis.

“But your abilities are much bigger than these challenges.

More important than what the problems are. It is what is your purpose, preference and plan,” he said.

New Delhi, Nov 20 (IANS): United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Invest India launched the SDG Investor Map for India on November 20, laying out 18 Investment Opportunities Areas (IOAs) in six critical SDG (sustainable development goals) enabling sectors that can help India push the needle forward on sustainable development.

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The Prime Minister added that today, major changes were also taking place in the energy sector of the whole world. But in such a situation, there is limitless potential for growth, entrepreneurship and employment in this sector in India, he added.

“There was a time when people questioned how far such a university would be able to grow. But the students here, the professors and the professionals who have left here have answered all these questions,” he said proudly.

He also highlighted that in the last 15 years, PDPU has widened its network in not just the petroleum sector, but all other energy sectors as well. Hence, he urged the Gujarat government to amend laws, if possible and convert the university into an ‘Energy University’ from just being a ‘Petroleum University’.

Connecting the graduates with PM’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, he said that he is confident that with their skill, talent and professionalism, they will emerge as a “big force of self-reliant India”.

During the convocation, the Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of “45 MW Production Plant of Monocrystalline Solar Photo Voltaic Panel” and “Centre of Excellence on Water Technology”.

The convocation was also witness to the Prime Minister inaugurating other facilities like “Innovation and Incubation Centre - Technology Business Incubation”.

The development pathways that India chooses will set an example for other emerging nations and determine the achievement of global environmental and social targets. It is thus critical to ensure that these pathways are sustainable, resilient and equitable.

However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the SDG Financing

The scheme so far allowed power plants only on barren, fallow and agricultural land. But with the changes, solar power plants can now also be installed on pastureland and marshy land of farmers.

Changes have also been made on the size of the power plant so that it makes it easier even for small farmers to invest in power generation. Accordingly, the solar power projects smaller than

500 kW, can now be permitted

by States, based on technocommercial feasibility.

in solar power generation from minimum prescribed Capacity Utilization Factor.

Also, the selected Renewable Power Generator (RPG) have been given more time to commission the project with deadline for completion being extended by three months to 12 months from the date of issuance of Letter of Award. Moreover, no penalty will be levied on RPG for shortfall

“The changes would allow better participation of farmers in the government’s renewable power initiatives and help in expanding the reach of green power to remotest corners of the country,” said an official source not willing to be named.

bidders.

transition towards cleaner fuels from fossil fuels,” the report projected.

Transition to clean energy sources lowered participation in commercial coal auction New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): The transition to clean energy sources led to subdued participation in the recently concluded first round of commercial coal mine auction, said India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra).

Accordingly, in a report, the agency said that domestic coal mining has opened up at a time when the world is transitioning away from coal as a fossil fuel to cleaner energy sources.

“Hence, participation from the players in the recently concluded first round of commercial coal mine auction has remained limited,” the report said.

In the first round of commercial coal mines auction a total of 19 mines have been allocated to the

These mines have an estimated annual output production of 51 million tonnes (mt) with total reserves of 3,045 mt.

Historically, the report cited a gap of three-to-seven years between the awarding of mines and the commencement of production.

According to the report, global players did not participate at all in the first round of auction, despite the government of India allowing 100 per cent foreign direct investment in commercial coal mining.

“Ind-Ra expects the participation of international players in coal auctions to remain weak in the future as well, owing to the overall

During 2019, the share of renewables globally increased by 176 gigawatt (GW) year over year to 2,537GW and is likely to increase to 3,500GW-3,800GW by 2025, as per the International Energy Agency.

Additionally, large global lending institutions have pledged to reduce their exposure to fossilfuel lending by 2030.

Besides, the report pointed out the low interest shown by the domestic private sector as only 19 mines could be auctioned out of the 38 on the block.

UNDP and Invest India identify 18 investment avenues for accelerating SDGs in India Gap has widened by an estimated $ 400 billion in developing countries, adding to the preCovid shortfall of $ 2-2.5 trillion per annum.

Whilst the government continues to show strong support for the SDGs and a sustainable recovery, mobilising this kind of capital and supporting the on-ground innovation needed to meet the SDG targets by 2030, requires the collective efforts of the public and private sector transition from short-term recovery to long-term sustainability.

This is where the SDG Investor Map for India comes in. By mapping the overlaps and gaps between public sector priorities and private sector interest,

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the SDG Investor Map lays out pathways that can bring together private-sector investment and public sector support for 6 SDG-enabling sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture & allied activities, financial services, renewable energy & alternatives and sustainable environment.

These sectors and the IOAs within them were selected through a rigorous analytical process that included extensive consultations with a number of major domestic and international investors, government stakeholders and think-tanks. This ensured that the map’s findings were truly reflective of market sentiment, a UNDP statement said.

Of the 18 IOAs identified, 10 are already mature investable areas that have seen good Private Equity and Venture Capital activity, and feature companies that have been able to unlock scale and demonstrate profitability. The remaining eight IOAs are emerging opportunities, which have seen traction from early-stage investors.

The map has also identified eight White Spaces, which have seen investor interest and have the potential to grow into IOAs within a 5-6-year horizon.

However, these require further policy support and private sector participation to mature into commercially attractive IOAs, UNDP said.

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Dec 1-15, 2020 - Vol 1, Issue 11

TRAVEL

South Africa opens all A solo traveller’s guide to Switzerland international leisure, S business travels witzerland’s dramatic landscapes serve as a playground for fun, frolic and action giving travellers an experience to remember and come back for!

By Puja Gupta November 20, 2020 (IANSlife) Travelling alone can be the most therapeutic form of selfindulgence. By traveling alone, one can engage with their new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion and connect with the soul of the place by hanging out with the locals.

Switzerland is a solo traveller’s haven, one of the safest and easiest places to navigate, - the sheer variety of things to see and do ensures that your solo trip is a memorable one, especially if it’s your first.

A

ll travellers coming into the country will need to supply a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) COVID test not older than 72 hours from the date of departure from their country

By Puja Gupta (IANSlife) South Africa is now open to all international leisure and business travellers from all over the globe.

The opening of all international travel follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement on November 18 that South Africa would be moving to augmented alert level 1, thus opening up international borders for all countries with effect from November 11.

“We are excited by the full opening of our international borders because this is a strong testament of the fact that we are open for both business and leisure travel. This opening brings certainty for South Africa, as a travel destination putting us back on the map and on the radar for many travellers who want to come explore our beautiful country,” SA Tourism Chief Executive Officer, Sisa Ntshona said in a statement.

All travellers coming into the country will need to supply a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) COVID test not older than 72 hours from the date of departure from their country.

“We know that now more than ever, traveller behaviour is influenced by trust and confidence so our country has put in place globally-benchmarked

health and safety protocols.

We thank all partners here in South Africa and across the world for their ongoing support and patience. As we gradually welcome tourists and business travellers from all over the world, we look forward to engaging with our partners once again as we work together to package South Africa for various tourists’ needs,” added Ntshona.

“While we know that there won’t an immediate influx of tourists as other countries are now experiencing second waves of the pandemic and have imposed travel restrictions for their citizens, we look forward to welcoming those tourists that are able to come. They can finally get to enjoy the wide-open spaces, scenic landscape, unique and authentic cultural experiences that South Africa has to offer,” concluded Ntshona.

South Africa recently won big at this year’s World Travel Market including Sun City voted as Africa’s leading casino resort, Plettenberg Bay as Africa’s leading beach destination and Durban voted as Africa’s leading city destination.

Earlier this year South Africa took top spot when booking company Tourlane asked its community where their perfect post-coronavirus trip destination would be. The survey saw South Africa as the go-to safari destination, packed with outdoor adventures, applauded for pristine and well-kept beaches.

Here are some of the activities we recommend you should add to your itinerary.

Not just a place to stay, but to experience Switzerland has a number of reasonably priced youth hostels around the country that are clean, safe, centrally located and with a choice of single room, double room and bunk beds with central kitchens and lobbies and lounges – perfect if you’re looking to meet other travellers. Other than hostels, travellers can choose to stay in single rooms available at lower rates than double rooms, in most hotels- whether budget, mid-priced or luxury.

The ultimate travel partner - The Swiss Travel Pass When travelling solo, a Swiss Travel Pass is a boon. Swiss Travel System makes traveling alone in Switzerland trouble-free with their efficient network of public transport- from the high-speed and famously punctual trains to buses, boats and trams. The Swiss Travel pass offers exciting discounts on most mountain excursions and gives you a free entry to almost 400 museums!

A part of the country’s heritage and history, Switzerland’s panoramic train routes are among the most beautiful rail routes in the world. To experience Switzerland’s majestic mountain scenery, idyllic valleys and villages; along crystal-clear lakes and ice-blue glaciers- a journey on The Glacier Express, or The Bernina Express is highly recommended.

Adventure Escapades With the stunning landscapes and action-packed activities, Switzerland will surely unravel the hidden adrenaline junkie in you! Whether you choose to jet ski over crystal blue waters, dive from the sky into lush green valleys or ski down steep terrains of the snow-capped alps, there’s an adventure to suit every person when in Switzerland. We recommend trying mountain biking or e-biking or sliding down the fastest Toboggan Run in

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Pilatus.

The best part? Your daring escapades aren’t limited to just one season. Whether you plan your trip in the summer, autumn or winter, Switzerland will always welcome you with towering alpine peaks, emerald green valleys and shimmering blue lakes.

Gastronomic Adventures In Switzerland- cheese and chocolate will be your go-to choice of food. But Switzerland’s local cuisine has the influence of 3 different cultures- German, French and Italian, so whether you are a meat lover or vegan, you will never run out of options to eat.

If you are on a budget, many restaurants offer a “meal of the day” which includes a salad/soup, a choice of 2 or 3 main courses and a dessert. Many mountain excursions offer a ‘picnic’ option where you can carry your own meal. Another must try when traveling to the country is Swiss Wine; one of the country’s best kept secrets is that almost all regions in Switzerland produce their own wines. The Viognier, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay from Lake Geneva region and Merlot Bianco from Ticino are particularly well known. However, if you consider yourself a wine connoisseur a trip to the Lavaux vineyards is a must.

When you are done trying the rich wines and scrumptious Swiss Delicacies and are craving a taste of home you can try one of the many amazing Indian restaurants in the country.

Swiss Cities- the fusion of old with the new Swiss cities are a true wonder!

Surrounded by the spectacular scenery that dominates Switzerland’s landscape, the cities embody quality of life, urban flair and are perfect to base yourself to explore when travelling independently.

Zurich is a perfect example of Swiss cities, which are a blend of the old and new! While the

old town will show you the rich history, the newer parts will cater to your young spirit with the best of Zurich nightlife with trendy bars and clubs. Any cosmopolitan swiss city such as Zurich or Geneva, will fill your calendar with festivals, fireworks, and al fresco fun, where you can meet different people and make connections for life.

And the best thing is that a 10-minute train ride can take you into countryside, so compact are even the biggest of cities in Switzerland.

Idyllic countryside landscape The picturesque villages of Switzerland have made for some of the most gorgeous backdrops of our Bollywood movies! Tucked in the lap of the Alps and surrounding valleys, these villages offer you a chance to unwind or pair up with other tourists and experience local life and culture.

In addition to being a paradise for hikers in summer and skiers in the winter, every village offers a multitude of attractions and mountain excursions throughout the year.

Rewarding mountain excursions The snow-covered peaks with panoramic viewpoints, thousands of hiking trails and many other alpine highlights make Switzerland an established destination for different mountain excursions. The journey to the mountaintops is either on board a cogwheel train, a cable car or the world’s steepest funicular, is a unique experience in itself.

When in Switzerland, you have to try the golden round trip to Lucerne’s home mountain Mt. Pilatus or experience the world’s first revolving cable car - Titlis Rotair while heading up Mt. Titlis!

A fun visit to the snow park at Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe or discovering the Glacier palace at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise will also make your day eventful.

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BUSINESS & TRADE

Indian govt gives nod to 28 India an automanufacturing hub projects, likely to create 10K jobs in 5 years: Gadkari amongst the 10 champion sectors.

Gadkari also said that there will be a huge requirement of about 25 million skilled jobs in the automobile sector in near future.

This is significant as this industry is going to create maximum jobs and growth, he added.

Indian Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS): Indian Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari said on November 23 that the centre is working to make India an automobile manufacturing hub in the coming 5 years.

“Government is also working towards making India a global automobile manufacturing hub in the next five years. This is my dream. This will also contribute in fulfilling the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Gadkari said.

This, he felt, is possible as India’s auto industry has made significant strides in terms of development of different designs and models, robust R&D, huge market, stable government frame-work and bright and young engineering minds. He added, India already is the largest manufacturer of two-wheelers in the world.

Considering the huge potential, the Government has earmarked over Rs 51,000 crore for this sector under Production Linked Incentive (PLI), the highest

He stressed that the Government aims at creating core global competencies in India by facilitating seamless integration of the automotive industry with the world. The Government, he added, is trying to create an ecosystem to accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles in the country.

He elaborated a number of steps that the Centre has taken to promote electric vehicles which include reduction in GST to 5%, allowing delinking of battery cost of 2-3 wheelers from vehicle cost as it accounts for nearly 30% of the cost among others.

The battery charging ecosystem is very important as such, he said.

The Government is planning to set up at least one electric vehicle charging kiosk at around 69,000 petrol pumps across the country to induce people to go for electric mobility.

He further called upon the automobile industry to push for manufacturing flex engines which have versatility to use petrol or ethanol or CNG as fuels.

He stressed that the Indian auto industry needs to follow the example of Brazil and US Auto sectors in this regard.

UP students to help in product improvement under ODOP students from more than 250 scheme affiliated institutes also in the Lucknow, Nov 20 (IANS): The students of the technical and management institutions in Uttar Pradesh will now help improve the ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) scheme with the use of technology.

The students will improve Aligarh’s locks by assimilation of technology and give management mantra to Kannauj perfumes and Bhadohi carpets for international marketing.

The Department of Micro and Small Industries, Government of Uttar Pradesh, in association with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University, organized a Hackathon at the end of November to connect students with ODOP. Fourteen engineering colleges of the state have been made nodal centres to conduct Hackathon.

Suggestions were taken from the students on the ODOP. It involved

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exercise.

In this, the students of B.Tech will help in improving the product scheme by connecting it with technology, so that the product can create a new identity at the international level.

The students of universityaffiliated management institutes will suggest better management of products.

AKTU Vice Chancellor Prof.

Vinay Kumar Pathak said that the innovative ideas of the students will give products a new identity.

ODOP is an ambitious flagship scheme of the Yogi Adityanath government. Its aim is to make the products manufactured in different districts of the state popular nationally and internationally and also make them self-reliant by providing employment opportunities to the workers. This includes products that are made only in Uttar Pradesh.

New Delhi, Nov 21 (IANS): As many as 28 projects spread over 10 states, which are likely to generate employment for nearly 10,000 people, have been approved under the Creation or Expansion of Food Processing and Preservation Capacities (CEFPPC) Scheme at the Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee (IMAC) meeting held on November 21. The meeting was chaired by Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Rural Development and Food Processing Industries, Narendra Singh Tomar.

The projects will cost Rs 320.33 crore and will be supported with a grant of Rs 107.42 crore by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.

Tomar chaired the IMAC meeting through video conference to consider the projects under the scheme of CEFPPC under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana for necessary grants-inaid. His deputy Rameswar Teli was also present in the meeting.

Promoters of the scheme attended the meeting virtually.

These 28 projects will create a processing capacity of 1,237 MT per day and are spread across the states of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Assam and Manipur.

The projects also include six in the north eastern states at a cost of Rs 48.87 crore supported with

Indian Minister of Agriculture _ Farmers Welfare, Rural Development and Food Processing Industries Narendra Singh Tomar. a grant of Rs 20.35 crore by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.

Indian PM unveils Bengaluru tech summit in virtual mode Bengaluru, Nov 19 (IANS): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 19, unveiled the 23rd edition of the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2020 in virtual mode through video-conferencing from New Delhi amid the Covid pandemic.

Leveraging the digital technology, Modi also addressed the gathering in this tech city and in virtual world, which included Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Swiss Confederation vice-president Guy Parmelin.

“Thanks to digital technology, India has been able to scale up faster in the service delivery to people across the country. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, the government has been able to help citizens through Ayushman Bharat for medical assistance efficiently thanks,” said Modi in English.

terms of ease of work and service delivery, Modi said the flagship programme had become a way of life in the country.

“Our resilient technology industry was able to overcome difficulties caused by the pandemic and enabled employees to work from home and from anywhere. This has become a new norm and is going to stay. We will see a high amount of tech adoption in education, agriculture and other sectors,” asserted Modi.

Noting that India had an advantage in innovation, the Prime Minister said he was confident that the Indian IT sector would keep the country proud with the talent and zeal of its techies to innovate.

Recalling that the Union government had started the Digital India initiative 5 years ago to transform a citizen’s life in

“Through technology, we have enhanced human dignity. Crores of farmers receive monetary support in a click. At the peak of the lockdown, it was technology that ensured that our poor received proper and quick assistance. The scale of this relief

New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): The rapid shift to digital payments due to the Covid-19 pandemic is urgently increasing the need for banks to modernise their payment systems, according to a new report from Accenture.

The report, titled “Playing the Long Game in Payments Modernisation,” is based on a survey of 120 payments executives at banks globally regarding the transformation of their payments business, as banks make multiyear investments to compete with non-bank digital-payments providers and comply with new regulations.

In the report, the global

professional services company forecasts nearly 420 billion transactions worth $7 trillion globally are expected to shift from cash to cards and digital payments by 2023 - and increase to $48 trillion by 2030.

In India, 66.6 billion transactions worth $270.7 billion are expected to shift from cash to cards and digital payments by 2023 - and increase to $856.6 billion by 2030.

The rapid move to digital payments has put additional pressure on banks, with threequarters (75 per cent) of surveyed bank executives saying that the pandemic has increased the urgency of their plans to

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has few parallels,” reiterated Modi in his 20-minute talk.

Union IT and Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, state Deputy Chief Minister C.N. Ahswath Narayan, state Industries Minister Jagadish Shettar and other dignitaries and invitees participated in the inaugural event of the 3-day summit.

Transactions worth $270 bn to shift to digital mode in India by 2030

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modernise payment systems, Accenture said.

The Accenture survey finds three quarters (75 per cent) of banks see payments modernisation as being driven by national payments infrastructure changes and regulation, which include improving bank-to-bank payments systems, new industry standards with ISO20022 and Open Banking.

The rapid shift to digital payments differs across countries, depending on the rate of cash decline, adoption of e-commerce and how active Big Tech companies are in providing payment services.

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BUSINESS & TRADE

Western Australia will profit from strong business ties with India: Report

W

estern Australia must look beyond China and other major countries and can have a robust engagement with India across several sectors in a mutually win-win situation, emanates the overarching message of the recently tabled report ‘Turning to India: Investing in our future’

today’s highly volatile economic, business and geopolitical environment is fraught with economic and business dangers.

It is herein that India emerges to be a viable, reliable and profitable business ally for Australia, in general and Western Australia, in particular.

Even as the world faces one of the most challenging times in recent history owing to the health crisis resulting from the Covid pandemic, its fallout goes far beyond health crisis. Perhaps the hardest hit aspect of life, after health is the economic one; with millions of people losing jobs across the globe and businesses having a hard time keeping themselves afloat. Three things emerge that have people all over the world worrying since the pandemic ---- the adverse impact this pandemic has had on trade flows, supply chain and free movement of people within countries and across borders. The strained relationship between Australia and China and the subsequent announcement of a range of restrictions imposed by China on Australian exports have adversely affected Australia’s economy, including that of Western Australia. Therefore, as the report ‘Turning to India: Investing in our future’ states, there has not been a more important time to consider the measures Western Australia can take to protect its existing trade relationships and look for entry into new markets. And more so it has been realized now that any reliance on a single partner in

Why engage with India?

The report ‘Turning to India: Investing in our future’ highlights why India can be a viable, reliable and profitable long-term trade ally of Western Australia. India is widely recognised as one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Experts predict that by 2035 India will be the third largest national economy, behind China and the United States. As a result, a rapidly developing India will need many goods and services that Western Australia can provide, including those from the education, mining, energy, agriculture and tourism sectors. This inquiry originally intended to examine how Western Australia can regain momentum in its trading relationship with India, became an opportunity to study further Western Australia’s future relationships with Asia with the release of two key State Government policies: Diversify WA: Strong Economy, Creating Jobs, Diverse Industries (Diversify WA) and Western Australia’s Asian Engagement Strategy 2019–2030: Our future with Asia (Asian Engagement Strategy). Though the outbreak of the pandemic and the looming uncertainty cast a doubt on whether or not Western Australia should proceed with the

inquiry, over a period of a few months it became apparent that Western Australia’s economic future lay in looking beyond China.

Among all Western Australia’s potential trading partners, India has received the prime focus it deserves given the country’s large market potential and the ambitious nature of a rather youthful country. Though some feel that India’s system of government is complex and the country needs to do more in terms of economic reforms, especially in terms of reducing the high tariffs it still imposes, given the country’s potential and the desire to grow, it is worth engaging with India in forging strong Western Australia-India trade relations. This could well be a win-win situation for both Western Australia and India as a burgeoning business relation between both would encourage the Indians to bring the muchneeded reforms in the country’s economy thereby opening more opportunities for expanding business relations between them.

For this to happen from the perspective of Western Australia, the report states that it must diversify its trade base to ensure the future prosperity of the State beyond mineral and energy commodities within sectors, including by expanding the products or services offered within one sector and across foreign investment markets, beyond the United States, Western Europe, Japan and China. India is an important market for economic diversification. Though India’s growth rate has slowed down

considerably due to the prevailing pandemic, India is still being projected to have the third largest economy in the world by 2035. It is being realized that the scale of India’s economy is extraordinary.

In 2019, India’s gross domestic product (GDP) was US$3 trillion.

Moreover, India’s trajectory of liberalization, trade openness, investment, and its aspirations to upskill its people generate a range of economic opportunities for Western Australia in the short, medium and long term. India’s young population, urbanization and growing middle class will continue to demand goods and services that Western Australia can supply, finds the report.

Need for a long-term strategic approach In the light of India’s potential as a business and trade partner, it is pertinent that Western Australia should adopt a long-term strategic approach to engage with India. In this regard, the State Government through its economic framework, Diversify WA: Strong Economy, Creating Jobs, Diverse Industries, and Western Australia’s Asian Engagement Strategy 2019–2030: Our future with Asia has taken a sectoral approach identifying six priority sectors such as energy; tourism, events and creative industries; international education; mining and mining equipment, technology and services; technology and advanced manufacturing; and primary industries. The Western Australia Investment and Trade Plan 2019–20 (Investment and Trade Plan) has identified priority subsectors in India that

fall within Western Australia’s six priority sectors. In this regard, the Government of Western Australia’s office in India based in Mumbai plays a very important role in growing the Western Australia–India economic relationship.

What must be done?

The report recommends that all levels of government in Australia —national, state and local—must strategically invest in developing the Western Australia–India economic relationship. In this respect, a non-partisan approach to trade policy will enable successive administrations to take strategic and ambitious approaches to policy and programme development and assist in the development of stronger, long-term trading ties with India. The State Government, businesses and institutions should collaborate and proactively engage with Commonwealth Government strategies, resources and engagement initiatives with India to raise Western Australia’s profile, improve stakeholder relationships and promote its products and services, says the report. Positive vibes have also emanated from the Indians with the forthcoming Australia Economic Strategy being the Indian Government’s response to Australia’s An India Economic Strategy to 2035: Navigating from Potential to Delivery. The Strategy could go a long way in stimulating additional Indian interest in developing trading relationship with Western Australia across a range of opportunities and sectors.

80% of India Inc fear more fraud cases in next 2 yrs: Deloitte survey

According to biennial survey - The India Corporate Fraud Perception Survey, Edition IV by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (DTTILLP), over 80 per cent of respondents felt fraud cases would rise in the next two years, a 22 percentage point increase over the previous edition of the survey in 2018.

About 70 per cent respondents felt that fraud losses would rise and one-third of the respondents felt losses would be between 1 per cent and 5 per cent of revenues.

These adverse sentiments are due to large-scale remote working arrangements and changes in business models, which have made it challenging to understand fraud-related vulnerabilities. The survey findings indicated that such adverse sentiments were further exacerbated by reliance on static data for Fraud Risk

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Management (FRM) efforts.

About 43 per cent respondents felt their existing fraud risk management frameworks were inadequate to address future frauds. Accordingly, they indicated diverting budgets towards adopting enhanced technologies that could provide an enterprise view of fraud (22 per cent); implementing enhanced fraud risk management processes for third parties (17 per cent); and creating awareness amongst employees (17 per cent) for fraud prevention.

six months. This inertia may be attributed to a limited understanding of long-term benefits that technology can offer (commensurate with the investments made), and the limited appetite for making such investments in a pandemic environment.

For the first time in four editions of the survey, nearly 35 per cent respondents believed that future frauds would be detected using data analytics and other technology tools (and not rely entirely on conventional approaches, such as internal audits).

“Traditionally, many Indian organisations have directed a majority of their FRM efforts towards fraud detection, whereas technology interventions can be primarily geared towards fraud prevention. This will require a shift in mindset from fraud detection to fraud prevention. We believe this shift can be enabled by working towards building an enterprise-wide view of fraud and making strategic technology investments,” said Nikhil Bedi, Partner and Leader, Forensic, Financial Advisory, DTTILLP.

However, despite a growing realisation that technology would be key to future fraud risk management efforts, less than 5 per cent respondents indicated investing in antifraud technologies in the past

About 50 per cent respondents indicated seeking legal action

Technology can also help organisations in fraud response, particularly if it involves responding to a regulator or seeking legal recourse.

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Courtesy MediaIndia.eu

New Delhi, Nov 30 (IANS): The uncertainty and business disruption brought about by the pandemic has contributed to fears amongst corporate India about the rise in fraud cases in the future.

against the parties involved in fraud (compared with 33 per cent in the previous edition of our survey). “The confidence to seek legal recourse may be a result of regulatory changes that are increasingly pushing for greater disclosures, as well as increased use of technology by organisations that can help document and preserve evidence to aid in faster resolution of cases,” Bedi said.

The survey also outlined the evolution of the fraud

risk management ecosystem comprising third-party experts, such as law firms, forensic accountants, technology companies, and others.

“The effectiveness of fraud risk management efforts in the future will rely on building a trustworthy ecosystem of experts. While inhouse fraud risk management teams will continue to grow and manage known risks, ecosystem players will be sought for strategic advice on future fraud risk management,” Bedi said.

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HEALTH

Period leaves must be decided in Global availability of Covid vaccine for time-bound manner: Delhi HC public not before mid-2021, claim Moody’s manner,” said a division to authorities bound momentum in these regions this New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS): While Distribution will likely occur in bench of the high court presided New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS): The Delhi High Court on November 23 asked the authorities to treat as representation -- a Public Interest Litigation seeking directions to the Centre and the Delhi government for granting paid leaves to women employees during the menstruation time.

The petition filed by Delhi Labour Union, through advocate Rajiv Agarwal, sought direction to the Centre and Delhi government to grant paid leaves for four days a month to all classes of women employees, including daily wage, contractual and outsourced workers and to pay overtime allowance to menstruating women employees if they opt to work during that period.

“We hereby direct the concerned respondents to treat this petition as a representation and decide the same in accordance with law, rules, regulations and government policies in a time-

by Chief Justice D.N. Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan while disposing of the petition.

The plea said: “...female employees form a significant part of workforce in the offices and establishments of the Respondents. At present, many employees are Respondents for performing various roles including that of officer, employee and worker.”

“These employees perform all kind of works including that of administrative, managerial, supervisory, skilled, unskilled, manual, operational, clerical and technical nature. These employees are employed through different modes of employment such as regular employees, ad hoc, deputation, daily wage muster roll workers, contractual workers and workers employed through independent contractors/ outsourcing agencies,” it added.

recent news about the high effectiveness of two coronavirus vaccines is a promising sign in the effort to combat the pandemic, a vaccine for Covid-19 will not be widely distributed before mid2021, Moody’s Investors Service said on November 24.

“However, these developments do not change the assumption underpinning our economic forecasts that widespread, global availability of the vaccine to the general public is only likely by around mid-2021,” Moody’s said in a report.

It added that the recent positive news about the effectiveness of vaccines under development will do little to ease the immediate concern regarding the current rise in coronavirus cases across the US and Europe that will dampen sentiments and economic

quarter and the next.

“Our baseline economic forecasts balance the downside risks of increasing infections and new lockdowns in the next two months, against the potential for widespread vaccinations over the next 12 months. If lockdowns are more severe than we expect, the negative effect on GDP could be offset if a coronavirus vaccine is available quicker and uptake is wider than we had expected,” it added.

Although successful Phase 3 trials of vaccines are a big step, there are numerous hurdles ahead, including satisfying approval requirements by regulators in individual countries, production of the billions of doses required for mass vaccination, ensuring proper storage and building distribution networks.

phases once regulators approve a vaccine, with health officials prioritizing access for healthcare workers and those in other highrisk professions, as well as for people who are most vulnerable to COVID-19, such as older people and individuals in care homes.

Moody’s said two important variables in overall success of vaccines in curbing the pandemic will be the public’s willingness to get vaccinated and what percentage of the population will need to be vaccinated in order for the spread of the virus to be brought under control. Vaccine availability likely will vary across countries, with cost and access being major hurdles in particular for less-developed economies.

Renowned surgeon Dr Chalapathi PM Modi reviews India’s Rao passes away at 92 vaccination strategy in key meeting New Delhi, Nov 20 (IANS): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 20 reviewed India’s vaccination strategy in a key meeting with the concerned officials.

“Important issues related to the progress of vaccine development, regulatory approvals and procurement were discussed,” Modi tweeted.

He added that various issues like prioritisation of population groups, reaching out to healthcare workers, cold-chain infrastructure augmentation, and tech platforms for vaccine rollout were also discussed in the

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting.

Key officials from the Niti Aayog, Cabinet secretariat, PMO, External Affairs Ministry, and Health Family were part of the meeting.

Bengaluru, Nov 21 (IANS): Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev on November 21 appealed to give top priority to provide Covid vaccine to high-risk groups including doctors, police personnel and frontline workers managing the outbreak.

arrest the pandemic in India,” he contended.

Participating in a virtual interaction at the Bengaluru Tech Summit-2020, Sadhguru said that he would be the last person to get vaccinated.

Sadhguru explained that the Union Government has drafted a document regarding the administration of vaccines, and it has already been shared with state governments for gathering inputs from them.

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A doyen in the field of surgery from the Telugu States, he was conferred the prestigious Dr. B. C. Roy National Award in 1995 for his yeomen contribution towards improving surgical education in the country.

Born in 1928, he was one of the most renowned and distinguished surgeons in India.

High-risk sections be given Covid vaccine first : Sadhguru

“If you ask me about vaccines, I would be the last person to get vaccinated for any pandemic including Covid-19. For me top priority should be given to highrisk groups like police personnel, doctors, and marginalised workers among others. They should get the vaccine first to

Hyderabad, Nov 22 (IANS): Renowned surgeon Professor Dr. P.V. Chalapathi Rao passed away on November 22 at the age of 92.

He added that the vaccine should also be given to vulnerable people, elderly and children, who are at a greater risk of developing severe disease because of low immunity and comorbidities.

“The government is also in the process of finalizing the databases of various priority population groups that will be administered the vaccine if and when it becomes available,” he said.

Fondly referred to as ‘Dr PVC Rao’, he was the first surgeon from Telugu States to be elected President of the Association of Surgeons of India (ASI) in 1994.

His son, Dr. P. Raghu Ram, a

distinguished surgeon and Padma Shri awardee, is the current President ASI for 2020.

In 2009, Dr. Rao achieved the unique distinction to become the first and the only surgeon from Telugu States to have been conferred Fellowship Ad hominum, the highest recognition bestowed by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, which is the oldest Surgical College in the world for his outstanding contribution towards improving the art and science of surgery in India for well over five decades.

He was one of the youngest professors of surgery appointed during Government service at the age of 38 years. He worked as Professor of Surgery in

Renowned surgeon Professor Dr. P.V. Chalapathi Rao Government of the undivided Andhra Pradesh for well over 15 years.

Russia’s Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine claims 95% effectiveness Moscow, Nov 24 (IANS): Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine has been found to be more than 95 per cent effective against Covid-19 in the second interim analysis of Phase 3 clinical trial data, its developers said on November 24.

efficacy of the Sputnik V vaccine gives us hope that we will soon obtain the most important tool in the fight against the pandemic of the novel coronavirus infection,” Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said in a statement.

The analysis was based on data from volunteers obtained 42 days after the first dose -- which corresponds with 21 days after the second dose, Gamaleya National Research Centre for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Russian Health Ministry and Russian Direct Investment Fund, said.

According to the protocol of Phase III clinical trials of the Sputnik V vaccine, its interim efficacy is calculated at three statistically significant representative control points -- upon reaching 20, 39 and 78 cases of novel coronavirus infection among volunteers both in the placebo group and in the group that received the vaccine.

And based on data obtained 28 days after administering the first dose - seven days after the second dose, the efficacy of the Sputnik V vaccine was found to be 91.4 per cent.

“The data demonstrating high

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The second interim analysis of the Sputnik V vaccine efficacy was carried out on the basis of 39 confirmed cases identified in the placebo group (31 cases) and in the vaccine group (8 cases).

The Russian vaccine uses two different vectors based on the human adenovirus, rather than using one and the same vector for two doses.

The next interim data analysis will be conducted upon reaching the third control point of 78 confirmed coronavirus cases among the study participants.

Final data analysis will be available by the end of Phase 3 clinical trials involving 40,000 volunteers.

Drug maker AstraZeneca on November 23 said that its Covid-19 vaccine, developed with Oxford University, was up to 90 per cent effective, making it one of the major drug companies after Pfizer and Moderna to have reported late-stage data for a potential Covid-19 vaccine.

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HEALTH

Researchers develop PM to interact with more teams AI to detect Covid on of Covid-19 vaccine developers chest x-rays New Delhi, Nov 29 (IANS): After his visit to three vaccine development centres, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on Monday scheduled to speak to three other teams involved in developing a Covid-19 vaccine.

The PMO, in a tweet, said: “Tomorrow, on 30th November 2020, PM Narendra Modi will interact, via video conferencing, with three teams that are involved in developing a COVID-19 vaccine.

The teams he will interact with are from Gennova Biopharma, Biological E and Dr Reddy’s.”

New York, Nov 29 (IANS): In a fight against the novel coronavirus, researchers have developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) platform that detects Covid-19 by analysing X-ray images of the lungs.

Called DeepCOVID-XR, the machine-learning algorithm outperformed a team of specialized thoracic radiologists -- spotting Covid-19 in X-rays about 10 times faster and more accurate.

According to the study, published in the journal Radiology, the research team believe physicians could use the AI system to rapidly screen patients who are admitted to hospitals for reasons other than Covid-19.

Faster, earlier detection of the highly contagious virus could potentially protect health care workers and other patients by triggering the positive patient to isolate sooner.

The study’s authors also believe the algorithm could potentially flag patients for isolation and testing who are not otherwise under investigation for Covid-19.

“We are not aiming to replace actual testing. X-rays are routine, safe and inexpensive. It would take seconds for our system to screen a patient and determine if that patient needs to be isolated,” said study author Aggelos

Katsaggelos from Northwestern University in the US. To develop, train and test the new algorithm, the researchers used 17,002 chest X-ray images -- the largest published clinical dataset of chest X-rays from the Covid-19 era used to train an AI system.

Of those images, 5,445 came from Covid-19-positive patients from sites across the Northwestern Memorial Healthcare System.

The team then tested DeepCOVID-XR against five experienced cardiothoracic fellowship-trained radiologists on 300 random test images from Lake Forest Hospital.

Each radiologist took approximately two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half hours to examine this set of images, whereas the AI system took about 18 minutes.

The radiologists’ accuracy ranged from 76-81 per cent. DeepCOVIDXR performed slightly better at 82 per cent accuracy.

“Radiologists are expensive and not always available,” Katsaggelos said.

“X-rays are inexpensive and already a common element of routine care. This could potentially save money and time -- especially because timing is so critical when working with Covid-19,” the author noted.

The first two are proceeding with developing their own vaccines, while Dr Reddy’s has tied up with Russia to conduct trials of its Sputnik vaccine.

The Prime Minister had visited three cities on Saturday to conduct an extensive review of

the vaccine development and manufacturing process, going to the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, the Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad and the Serum Institute of India in Pune.

Expressing pride in the fact that India’s indigenous vaccine development has progressed at such a rapid pace so far, he had stressed that India considers vaccines as not only vital to good health but also as a global good, and it is India’s duty to assist other countries, including the nations in the neighbourhood, in the collective fight against the virus.

Modi asked the scientists to express their free and frank opinion on how the country could further improve its regulatory process. The scientists also presented an overview of how

they are also developing various new and repurposed drugs to better fight Covid-19.

After visiting Pune, the Prime Minister had tweeted, “Had a good interaction with the team at Serum Institute of India.

They shared details about their progress so far on how they plan to further ramp up vaccine manufacturing. Also took a look at their manufacturing facility.”

The Covidshield vaccine is being developed jointly by the Oxford University, AstraZeneca and the SII, which is the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer.

Currently, the SII is producing around 50-60 million doses which would be scaled up to to 100 million by January 2021, SII CEO Adar Poonawalla told the media.

Global Covid-19 cases surpass 62mn mark: Johns Hopkins Washington, Nov 29 (IANS): The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 62 million mark, while the deaths have surged to more than 1.45 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

In its latest update on Sunday, the University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 62,147,874 and 1,450,326, respectively.

The US is the worst-hit country with the world’s highest number of cases and deaths at 13,233,884 and 266,009, respectively, according to the CSSE. India comes in second place in terms of cases at 9,351,109, while the country’s death toll soared to 136,200.

The other countries with more than a million confirmed cases are Brazil (6,290,272), France (2,260,789), Russia (2,223,500), Spain (1,628,208), the UK

Travelers wearing face masks are seen at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Nov. 24, 2020. (Photo by Ting ShenXinhua) The countries with a death (1,609,141), Italy (1,564,532), toll above 20,000 are Mexico Argentina (1,413,375), Colombia (104,242), the UK (58,127), Italy (1,299,613), Mexico (1,078,594) and (54,363), France (52,212), Iran Germany (1,042,048), the CSSE (47,486), Spain (44,668), Russia figures showed.

(38,676), Argentina (38,322), Brazil currently accounts for Colombia (36,401), Peru (35,839) the second highest number of and South Africa (21,439). fatalities at 172,561.

IMA offers its 3L members, 1,750 branches to assist in Covid prog New Delhi, Nov 29 (IANS): The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has offered its members and branches to assist in the rollout of Covid-19 immunisation programme when a vaccine is available.

Rajan Sharma, President of the apex body of private practitioners in India, informed IANS that it had proposed voluntary services of its three lakh members across the country to assist in the Covid-19 vaccination programme of the government.

“It’s a voluntary service to the nation, and none of our members would charge a single penny for

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their labour,” he stated.

Sharma said that the organisation is ready and well equipped with 1,750 local branches spread in almost every district of the country.

“Our presence is everywhere, even in the remote and hilly areas as well,” he said.

“An effective top to down command and control is in place with 28 state branches. Most of the members have a small team of nurses for their professional practice. A large number of small and medium hospitals and nursing homes in sub-district

towns are run by IMA members.

Such practitioners are available even in remote, hilly districts and areas not easily accessible,” he said.

Sharma also said that the members of the IMA already have the hands-on experience of immunisation which is an additional factor to induct them in the vaccination drive.

“Many of them have taken part in the Pulse Polio and many such government welfare programs of immunisation. I’m sure they will be of great help,” he added.

Besides, since the vaccines

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have to be provided as per cold chain conditions along with the disposables, the services by IMA would act as a force amplifier for the vaccination programme and substantially increase the number of outlets available for the people, Sharma said.

Currently, five vaccine candidates are undergoing clinical trials in India and are in different stages of trials. These include vaccines developed by Oxford University - AstraZeneca, Bharat Biotech, Cadila, Biological E - Baylor College of Medicine and Gamaleya Research Institute, Moscow.

Bharat Biotech Ltd and Indian

Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has begun phase-III trials of Covaxin. Serum Institute of India (SII), which inked a deal with Oxford-Astrazeneca for manufacturing their vaccine candidate, has finished enrolment for Phase-III Covishield vaccine, supported by the ICMR. SII has already manufactured 40 million doses of the vaccine, under the at-risk manufacturing and stockpiling license from Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). Meanwhile, Ahmedabadbased Cadila Healthcare is currently finishing phase-II trials of its vaccine candidate.

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HEALTH

This machine is saving lives of Moderna asking US, severe Covid patients: Study European regulators to

greenlight Covid-19 vax

London, Nov 29 (IANS): Researchers have revealed that Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines -the existing medical treatment -- are saving lives of patients hospitalised with Covid-19.

CPAP machines use mild air pressure to keep the airways open and are typically used by patients who have breathing problems during sleep.

“We show that Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in the first days of hospitalisation seems to save between 10 per cent to 20 per cent of patients,” said study author Luigi Sedda of Lancaster University in the UK. “However, it is important to underline that this was a pilot study with a small sample size, although comforting evidence is starting to emerge elsewhere,” Sedda added.

For the study, published in the journal BMJ Respiratory Open, the research team used the CPAP machines on patients with Covid-19 admitted to the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan.

In the case of patients with the severe acute respiratory syndrome, Covid-19 may cause the lungs to swell and collapse.

Using CPAP treatment, which is often used at home to help people with sleep problems, helps to keep the lungs open and makes breathing easier.

The research conducted by the

team showed how CPAP treatment can be delivered effectively in a ward setting, with low resources both across the country and worldwide where intensive care bed availability is limited.

The research has so far helped almost a hundred patients.

“When you use CPAP early in the admission it stops the patient getting worse, therefore avoiding invasive ventilation techniques,” said study author Abdul Ashish.

“As CPAP is readily available and can be used in a ward setting,

we have demonstrated that, when used early, it can be a very effective way of treating severe Covid-19 pneumonia,” Ashish added.

The researchers also found that the early use of CPAP potentially reduces lung damage during the worst of the Covid-19 infection and allows the patient to recover from the inflammatory effects.

However, when used later, CPCP does not prevent lung damage thus leading to additional inflammation and a reduction in survival chances.

“We are at the forefront of developing care for Covid-19 patients and have developed a very effective treatment strategy for our population who develop lung failure following Covid-19

By Nikhila Natarajan New York, Nov 30 (IANS) Moderna Inc, which has reported its Covid-19 vaccine is 94 per cent effective, on Monday announced it is filing with US and European regulators for emergency use authorisation.

Moderna follows barely a week after Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech filed for US regulatory approval. By the end of 2020, Moderna expects to have approximately 20 million doses of its mRNA-1273 vaccine available in the U.S and is “on track to manufacture 500 million to 1 billion doses globally in 2021.

Moderna created its shots in collaboration with the U.S. National Institutes of Health and got a final batch of results over the weekend which show the vaccine is more than 94%

effective.

Moderna’s efficacy results are based on 196 Covid-19 cases in its huge U.S. study with more than 30,000 participants. Of the 196 cases, 185 were in participants who received the dummy shot and 11 who got the vaccine.

Severe cases and one death were reported in participants who got the dummy shot.

Moderna expects to present its data to the US Food and Drug Administration on December 17. First up will be Pfizer and BioNTech, on December 10. Both Pfizer and Moderna are two-shot vaccines.

The US government’s vaccine management chief has said all systems are ready to deliver the vaccines to priority groups within 24 to 48 hours of FDA approval.

out three different scenarios that help explain how and why the lungs stop providing oxygen to the bloodstream.

circulated throughout the rest of the body,” the team said.

Study explains why Covid-19 can cause silent hypoxia New York, Nov 30 (IANS): Scientists have finally begun to crack one of the most lifethreatening mysteries behind the relationship between silent hypoxia and Covid-19 virus by using computer models.

Silent hypoxia is a condition when oxygen levels in the body are abnormally low, which can irreparably damage vital organs if gone undetected for too long.

“Despite experiencing dangerously low levels of oxygen, many people infected with severe cases of Covid-19 sometimes show no symptoms of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing,” said study authors from the Boston University in the US. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, used computer modeling to test

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The researchers revealed that silent hypoxia is likely caused by a combination of biological mechanisms that may occur simultaneously in the lungs of Covid-19 patients.

They first looked at how Covid-19 impacts the lungs’ ability to regulate where blood is directed.

Normally, if areas of the lung aren’t gathering much oxygen due to damage from infection, the blood vessels will constrict in those areas.

“This is actually a good thing that our lungs have evolved to do, because it forces blood to instead flow through lung tissue replete with oxygen, which is then

But preliminary clinical data have suggested that the lungs of some Covid-19 patients had lost the ability of restricting blood flow to already damaged tissue, and in contrast, were potentially opening up those blood vessels even more--something that is hard to see or measure on a CT scan.

Using a computational lung model, the team tested that theory, revealing that for blood oxygen levels to drop to the levels observed in Covid-19 patients, blood flow would indeed have to be much higher than normal in areas of the lungs that can no longer gather oxygen -contributing to low levels of oxygen throughout the entire body.

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Cambridge University honours Indian Education Minister for education reforms

Indian Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal (left) New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS): The Cambridge University, the world’s leading university, has lauded India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and felicitated Indian Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ for spearheading educational reforms in the country to build a coherent and resilient education system.

Pokhriyal was honoured at the virtual National Conference on ‘Empowering through Zero - Shunya Se Sashaktikaran’, organised by the Sri Aurobindo Society on November 24.

Rod Smith, Managing Director, Global Education at Cambridge University Press speaking on the history of education in India said, “Education and research are important tools of the world.

India’s education system has a long and illustrious history.”

Smith said that the world’s first university was established in 700 BC whereas the first and oldest women’s college in Asia was established in Kolkata.

“The studies of trigonometry, calculus and algebra all originated in India,” he said.

Cambridge University had lauded the National Education Policy of India and honoured the Union Education Minister for spearheading education reforms to build a coherent and resilient education system, Smith said.

He appreciated the Union Education Minister for his

“commitment” to “sustainable education” through the National Education Policy 2020.

Smith further said that for the last seven decades, India has largely focused on expanding access to education.

The Union Minister also addressed the virtual national conference and honoured more than 40 education officers for their leadership role and 26 teachers for their innovative practices during Covid-19 pandemic.

Pokhriyal also launched ‘Innovation and Leadership Casebook - Covid Edition’, the e-books that comprise innovative efforts and work of the education officers and teachers.

Talking about Aurobindo Ghosh, Pokhriyal reiterated the glorious past of India’s educational heritage, where world famous universities such as Nalanda and Takshashila thrived and invited students from all over the world with the slogan: ‘Vasudev Kutumbakam’.

Pokhriyal said that “NEP 2020 is the most comprehensive and futuristic policy document in educational history of this country”.

“NEP lays the foundation of the new India as it focuses on development of competencies, skills and critical thinking of children,” he said.

Mumbai, Nov 25 (IANS): The Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle has revealed that she suffered a miscarriage in July this year.

humming a lullaby to keep us both calm, the cheerful tune a stark contrast to my sense that something was not right,” she added.

Duchess of Sussex opens about suffering miscarriage in July Meghan, wife of Harry, Duke of Sussex, opened up about the tragic incident to New York Times in an article titled “The Losses We Share”. She described the experience as an “almost unbearable grief”.

Meghan shared: “It was a July morning that began as ordinarily as any other day: Make breakfast.

Feed the dogs. Take vitamins.

Find that missing sock. Pick up the rogue crayon that rolled under the table. Throw my hair in a ponytail before getting my son from his crib.”

“After changing his diaper, I felt a sharp cramp. I dropped to the floor with him in my arms, www.indianews.com.au

“I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second.

Hours later, I lay in a hospital bed, holding my husband’s hand.

I felt the clamminess of his palm and kissed his knuckles, wet from both our tears. Staring at the cold white walls, my eyes glazed over.

I tried to imagine how we’d heal,” Meghan further wrote in the article.

American actress Meghan Markle tied the knot with the Duke of Sussex Harry on May 19, 2018. The couple’s first son Archie was born on May 6, 2019.

ARTS & LITERATURE

Delhi-based doctor debuts as author with historical whodunit New Delhi, Nov 19 (IANSlife): It was a ‘fascinating’ idea narrated to him by his mother that led a senior Delhi-based pulmonary doctor, Dr Deepak Rosha, to debut with his first book -- a historical thriller -- several years later.

A compelling thriller that begins with the enigmatic kidnapping of a month-old baby in prePartition Lahore, who would ultimately surface as the ruler of an erstwhile Himalayan kingdom, ‘Raja of Nowhere’ is the debut novel of the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital senior consultant.

Packing history, mysticism, and power play in a remarkable work of fiction, the novel was launched on November 18.

The story begins in Lahore, 1933, when a baby named Sudhir, is abducted from a park and is never found. Almost 70 years later, Indu Bhalla, the last survivor of her family, is handed irrefutable proof about her baby brother’s current identity. He is now Jagganath, ex Raja of Hazarapur, and is also known as His Highness, The Raja of Nowhere.

Following reunion with the family of his birth, the knowledge

that he is not really the heir to his erstwhile kingdom places Jagannath in a quandary. Ahead of his 70th birthday, as His Highness learns of the story behind his birth that explains the mystical experiences he had during his lifetime, including encounters with a mysterious woman and her daughter, danger looms large over his life.

In this pacey whodunit, the author Dr Deepak Rosha puts to paper the deep insight into human nature that interactions with patients and their families gave him. Published by Kalamos Literary Services, the book comes amid the doctor’s unwavering contribution as a COVID-19 warrior.

According to Dr Rosha, “The idea of this book came to me through my mother as the anecdote of a baby being kidnapped in the 1930s in Lahore, and found many years later as a grown-up in a well-to-do family, and the idea instantly struck me as fascinating.

By the morning, I had thought out the whole book. Being a doctor, I couldn’t find the time to write the book, so it took many years to

Dr. Deepak Rosha come out. Last year, I took a leave to immerse myself in the story and finally completed the book.”

“The character of Jagganath manifested as a complex and intriguing personality even as I started writing. One of the reasons why he is called ‘Raja of Nowhere’ is because as he grew in influence as a politician, he met the erstwhile PM Jawaharlal Nehru who asked him “Raja of where?” To this Jagganath replied “Raja of nowhere, sir. There are no Rajas in a democracy!”

Thereafter the epithet stuck,” he said over phone.

The mystical saga spanning across 400 years is published by Kalamos Literary Services.

Fostering the message of Sufism through hip hop Hyderabad, Nov 19 (IANS): Hip hop and Urdu don’t go together so also hip hop and Sufism but an Urdu hip-hop band has come out with an album with strange fusion of rap music with the Sufi message and in mostly Urdu lyrics.

As Hyderabad’s Thug Unit released its album ‘Resurrection 040’, the duo behind it shared with IANS their experiences and the motivation behind the unique experiment.

Comprising 12 tracks and representing a variety of elements, the album was released on November 20 on Apple Music.

Mostly in Urdu, the tracks also have English and West Indian flavor with Jamaican lingo.

Mudassir Ahmed and Syed Irshad, who go with stage names ‘Mo Boucher’ and ‘Irish Boi’

respectively, told IANS that for the first time message of sufism has been conveyed to people through the medium of hip hop.

People so far used to listen to qawwalis to know something about the message of Sufism but the Hyderabadi rappers with this album are adding a totally different medium.

“This is not philosophical Sufism like reading of books but it is actual practical journey. This has come out of our own experience,” said Mudassir, who stopped writing poetry and composing music in 2012 for his spiritual journey and is making a comeback to the world of hip hop with his old friend.

The album features pertinently named tracks Rubaroo (face to face), Raahe Rast (straight path), Suroor e Ishq, (exhilaration of

love), Pardafash (unmasked), Azmaish (test), Atishbazi (fireworks), Bossman, Bus’em (Bust Them), Hate Monger, Intro, Kun (Be) featuring Rebel of Khan Artists and Original Rajah (Original Ruler).

The musical ensemble portrays Sufism-inspired self-reflection, community evils and voice against power establishments.

Music for the album is produced by seasoned Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum producers including Buck Wild, making the duo the first from Telangana and perhaps from India to work with US-based Grammy nominated producers.

Thugs Unit inked a deal with Apple Music recently. “We are happy that Bobin James Editor and Artists Relations Lead at Apple Music personally listened to our music tracks and liked them enough to honour us by featuring on a platform so robust like Apple Music”, they said.

Popular Telugu poet, writer Devi Priya passes away Pallaki.

Amaravati, Nov 21 (IANS): Popular Telugu poet, writer and journalist Devi Priya succumbed to ill health in a Hyderabad hospital on November 21.

Born as Khaja Hussain on August 15, 1951 at Tadikonda in Guntur district, he used Devi Priya as his pen name as a writer and went on to win the Sahitya Akademi Award.

Hussain was considered as

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one of the state’s first political commentators, said an official statement from Andhra Pradesh government.

As a journalist, he worked in Telugu newspapers as well as for an English daily, including earning fame for a poetic cartoon strip.

Hussain wrote lyrics for Telugu movies such as Rangula Kala, Ragulutunna Bharatam and

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Governor Biswa Bhusan Harichandan expressed grief over the passing away of Hussain on November 21.

Reddy conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members of the poet.

Harichandan offered prayers for the peace of Hussain’s soul and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family members.

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BORDER-GAVASKAR TROPHY 2019-20

A taxing summer ahead for the Indian team in Australia

By Vijay Lokapally

T

he two-match drubbing at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) must have shocked the passionate followers of Virat Kohli’s team.

It, however, should also serve as a wake-up call ahead of what appears to be a taxing summer for the Indian team Down Under.

Following the successful bio bubble cricket involving England, Australia, West Indies and Pakistan, the Indian Board embarked on a brave mission to conduct the Indian Premier League (IPL) in United Arab Emirates (UAE). There were apprehensions in various quarters since it was a tournament that was going to test the organizational qualities of the BCCI from September 19 to November 10, 2020.

BCCI put up a spectacular show as the world cricket’s premier T20 franchise tournament provided the fans top class stuff. There was not one incident, in terms of Corona Virus, threatening the tournament and obviously it brought smiles on the faces of sports fans across the world.

Mumbai Indians winning the title was on expected lines but not the controversy generated by the issue involving Rohit Sharma’s injury. Was he not injured ? That was the reason given for his non-selection in the Indian team for Australia. If he was injured, how come Rohit played the last two matches for Mumbai Indians, including the final where he scored 68, the highest individual aggregate of the match.

The BCCI and the National Selection Committee were shown in poor light. Ishant Sharma and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were ruled out of the Australian tour on account of injuries but the team management was hopeful that Rohit would make the squad.

When he was not picked – on

the advice of the team physio – questions obviously arose on the need for him to play the IPL final.

Franchise over country, asked many?

The unsavoury development, ahead of the Australian tour, left cricket fans disappointed.

The lack of communication between Rohit Sharma and the rest was indeed shocking and unprofessional. The selectors went by the medical report on Rohit and did not pick him for the white-ball matches. The confession by skipper Virat Kohli – that he was in the dark as for Rohit traveling with the team to be able to recover before the Test series – shall remain an embarrassing chapter in Indian cricket.

The team left Rohit behind to go through the rehab process at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and one of India’s finest one-day batsmen did not figure in such a crucial series in recent times. Rohit’s absence hurt the team even though the first two matches saw India compile totals of 308 and 338 when faced with targets of 389 and 374. The losses were comprehensive and exposed India’s limitations in some key areas of the competition.

Steve Smith’s sensational knocks of 105 off 66 balls and 104 off 64 balls showed the Australian’s dominance of Indian attack. He toyed with opposition, scoring at will, picking gaps with ridiculous ease, and demonstrating amply his claims as a modern day great.

Smith’s form left the bowlers demoralized as they concentrated on trying to escape the wrath of his bat than look to breach his defence.

His batting was a master class, as has been acknowledged widely.

To think that Smith nearly missed the second match when he woke up with vertigo. He told cricket.

co.au “I didn’t know I was playing today. I had a really bad dose of vertigo this morning and I was struggling until … I came down early to have a hit and a bit of a run around.” Smith winning the man of the match award in both the victories was a testimony to his consistency and continued domination of India’s attack.

Faced with stiff targets, India was hard-pressed to reach the summit but the Australians bowled tight when it mattered.

Kohli was candid when he said, “We were completely outplayed.

I think with the ball we were not that effective. We just didn’t hit the areas that we wanted to consistently. And they have got a pretty strong batting line-up, and they understand these conditions and pitches and the angles on the field well. We had to bowl in one area for long enough, and we didn’t. We got to 340 and still fell short by 50 so the chase always felt a bit too steep.

The areas they bowl, invariably they were in the position that some chances would be created.

They used the dimensions of the field pretty well, which we unfortunately did not.”

claims of an all-rounder.

Reflecting on the first two matches of the series only reconfirmed the fact that India’s preparation for the whiteball contests was not up to the mark. A team can’t enter a competition and discover the absence of effective sixth-bowler options. Experts have pointed out this shortcoming on various platforms but then the selectors have picked the best available players for the tour. The only player who evoked sympathy for not finding a place in the squad was Mumbai’s magnificent strokeplayer Suryakumar Yadav.

For India, the 89 by Kohli and 76

by Rahul in the second match do convey their form, especially keeping in mind the T20 series, which puts the teams on equal pedestal despite Australia having home advantage. The team would do well to look ahead and learn

from the two losses, especially in the bowling department. For India to excel in the T20 and the four Test matches, including a pink ball encounter at Adelaide, it would be imperative for the bowlers to deliver.

Mr Vijay Lokapally has been a sports journalist for four decades.

He writes for The Hindu and Sportstar.

Hardik Pandya’s 90 in the first ODI was the most refreshing part of the match from India’s point of view. As KL Rahul observed, ““Refreshing, isn’t it?. If he starts bowling, then it is a load off the skipper and the team. We need allrounders for the team balance. He quite enjoyed it himself. He loves to get into contests and he is itching to go.” It was an interesting comment

by Rahul and Hardik did bowl four overs in the second match to stake his

Partnership of a different kind

I

n the second ODI of the threematch series between India and Australia, the home team clinched the series 2-0 beating India by 51 runs. But even as the Indian cricket team lost the second ODI by 51 runs chasing a huge target of 390 runs against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on November 29, a partnership of a different kind came into existence off the field between a man and a woman.

A man donning the Indian team jersey went down on his knee and proposed marriage to a girl wearing a yellow-coloured t-shirt supporting the home team. Although Australia and India were fighting tooth and nail on the field, the two lovers didn’t let anything stand in the way to their union. Despite their opposing loyalties for the teams engaged in the on-field battle, the girl consented to the proposal

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even as the commentators and players enjoyed a light-hearted moment in the otherwise highly competitive match. The couple was also offered congratulations

by Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell who applauded them from the field.

Choosing to bat first, Australia once more made the most of their decision as Steve Smith and David Warner added 104 and 83 runs respectively to Australia’s massive score of 389/4. Warner and Finch fortified a partnership of more than 100 runs for the third time in a row in ODI cricket before Mohammad Shami managed to send Finch back to the pavilion in the 23rd over after the latter had scored 60 runs. Warner (83) followed suit after a run-out in the 26th over.

However, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith stood together

at the crease and ensured that no wickets were lost in quick succession. Smith hammered his second consecutive century against India in the 41st over but in the next over his stint of 104 runs was ended by Hardik Pandya, which also led to the end of the 136-run partnership between Smith and Labuschagne.

Labuschagne and Maxwell contributed 93 runs in the final 8 overs before the former departed for the pavilion with a total of 70 runs.

Despite the Indian bowlers’ disappointing performance with Shami and Bumrah conceding 73 and 79 runs respectively and Ravindra Jadeja’s sloppy fielding as he dropped two catches, the Indian openers made a decent start with Shikhar Dhawan and Mayank Agarwal as they came out to the crease chasing a 390-run target. However after stitching

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together a partnership of 58 runs, Dhawan was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood in the eighth over. In the following over, Pat Cummins sent Mayank packing after the latter scored 28 runs. A 93-run partnership between captain Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer although commendable was cut short after the latter was knocked out at 38 by Moises Henriques’ short-ball as Steve Smith caught the ball at midwicket. Kohli was the top scorer knocking a total

of 89 runs off 87 deliveries while KL Rahul was the second highest scorer smashing 76 runs off 66 balls. Pat Cummins took a haul of three wickets with Hazlewood and Zampa accounting for two dismissals each.

The Indian team was curtailed to 338/9 as the home team registered the second consecutive victory thereby winning the three-match series with an unbeatable lead of 2-0.

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SPORTS

Aus vs Ind: Not concerned about Ishant, Argentine football legend Diego Maradona Rohit’s absence from Tests, says Langer passes away at 60 Sydney, Nov 25 (IANS): Australia head coach Justin Langer has said that the likely absence of Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma from the first two Tests of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy will have no bearing on the hosts’ psyche and the frequent limited-overs match-ups between the two sides in recent times will eventually help them in facing the Indian challenge.

Diego Maradona Buenos Aires, Nov 25 (IANS): Football legend Diego Maradona has died, aged 60, according to Argentine media reports.

He had been discharged from hospital just a few weeks ago after undergoing surgery for a blood clot in the brain.

Maradona underwent surgery on November 3 after which his personal doctor Leopoldo Luque said that Maradona was suffering from confusion caused by “abstinence”. He, however, recovered enough to leave the hospital and was taken to a house in Tigre, on the northern outskirts of Buenos Aires.

His lawyer Matias Morla said the 1986 FIFA World Cup winner was feeling well after overcoming “maybe the toughest time of his life”.

Widely rated as the greatest player of all time, Maradona was captain when Argentina won the 1986 World Cup. The tournament featured a number of sublime performances from the legendary forward, the most prominent of which came in a quarter-final match against England and the goal he scored in the match which came after a 60-yard run with the ball from midfield, dribbling past six English players has since been

dubbed ‘Goal of the Century’.

Born in a slum area in the southern outskirts of Buenos Aires on October 30, 1960, Maradona made his senior debut for Buenos Aires-based Argentinos Juniors in 1976. He went on to play for Argentine giants Boca Juniors in the 1981-82 season. He then shifted to Europe where he spent two tumultuous seasons with Spanish giants Barcelona. His tenure with the Catalan club ended with a nasty brawl that triggered crowd trouble in the 1984 Copa del Rey final.

Maradona then went to Italian club Napoli, where he had arguably the most productive period of his career. He won two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia and one UEFA Cup in his seven seasons with the club, leaving as their all-time highest goal scorer, a record that stood until Marek Hamsik overtook his tally in 2017.

He went on to spend a season each at Spanish club Sevilla and Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys before ending his career at Boca Juniors.

As a coach, Maradona notably managed Argentina between 2008 and 2010. He was in charge of Gimnasia y Esgrima in Argentina’s

“Not our business, we have got our challenges. We will come together as a group for the first time on the morning of the game.

It is up to India what they do and who they choose as we have zero control over things. One thing I have learnt through Covid-19 is that if you get caught up with things you can’t control, you literally go crazy. They can pick whoever they want but we have our own challenges so who they

pick (as replacements), we’ll go ahead and face them,” said Langer while responding to a question from IANS on whether the absence of Ishant and Rohit from the first two Tests will affect the Australians.

Both Rohit and Ishant are undergoing rehab at the National Cricket Academy and there have been reports that the duo might miss the first half of the Test series as they will recover late and will have to undergo hard quarantine upon arrival in Australia which will make it impossible for them to play the first two matches to be played at the Adelaide Oval (December 1721) and Melbourne Cricket Ground (December 26-30).

Langer added that since both the sides have played each other frequently in limited-overs cricket in recent times, it has

helped Australia batsmen have a measure of the Indian bowling.

This is apart from the IPL experience, he says.

“We know that ( Jasprit) Bumrah is world-class, with (Mohammed) Shami (that is a) really good opening combination. Our guys have seen fair bit of them through the IPL, through the last couple of summers, we’ve played 14 ODIs and it is seven-all. Our guys have seen a lot of each other. That is what I love about the contests.

How teams are growing, we have played a bit against each other. We have great respect for their spinners, for Bumrah, Shami, their other bowlers, like (Navdeep) Saini. Our guys know they will be on their toes against the Indian bowling attack. They are working hard, they’ve seen a bit and they’ll be ready for it,” said Langer.

Burns remains first choice for opener in Aus-Ind Test series, confirms coach Sydney, Nov 25 (IANS): Despite calls from various quarters and former players like Mark Taylor to draft in young Will Pucovski for the upcoming Test series against India as an opener ahead of experienced Joe Burns, Australia head coach Justin Langer on November 25 hinted that the senior Queensland batsman remains first-choice to take on the new ball.

Langer though did say that if Pucovski plays, it could be somewhere in the middle-order.

Traditionally many Australian openers have started in the middle before graduating to the top of the line-up.

“For Will, the opportunity is where it comes like for any other players.

My view for the last 30 years has been that if you can bat in the top three in Shield cricket (Australia’s top domestic competition), you

can bat anywhere in the order. If you are more specifically number five or six in Shield cricket then that is where you will bat in Test cricket,” said Langer.

“But if you bat in top three and you are scoring hundreds, you can literally bat anywhere. So that is where someone like Will Pucovski, who is opening the batting for Victoria and has also batted at number three for them, has got that benefit or flexibility to bat anywhere. He knows how to score hundreds and our philosophy in Test cricket is that the top six batters have to be able to score hundreds. He sets himself up nicely wherever the opportunity comes,” he added.

The Australian head coach also confirmed that the young batsman won’t play ahead of either Matthew Wade or Travis Head.

Joe Burns

Have been focussing more on my goal-scoring ability, says Indian hockey forward Bengaluru, Nov 25 (IANS): Shilanand Lakra, a young forward in the Indian men’s hockey team, is determined to make the most of the ongoing period where he has found the opportunity to focus on personal development since the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

“Obviously having made my debut for the senior team in 2018 at the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, I would have expected myself to play more than two tournaments in these two years, but that is how competitive the sport in our country has become. We’ve got some amazing players in the core probables’ group, and my aim has always been to earn a place in the

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team through more consistent performances in domestic tournaments and in our national camps,” said Lakra who is part of the ongoing national camp at the Sport Authority of India facility here.

“The opportunity that the pandemic has provided me with is that I’ve had enough time to re-think and analyse what I’ve been doing these past two years, and what else I can do to progress in my career. I’ve also managed to speak to the coaching staff, and especially chief coach Graham Reid, who has helped me identify areas where I need to improve upon,” he added.

The leading scorer at the Sultan of Johor Cup in 2019, where he bagged five goals in six appearances, and helped the team win the silver medal, Shilanand believes goal-scoring is also something that he has focused on.

“I think in my 12 international caps, I haven’t been able to score, and as a forward, goal-scoring is something you should constantly be working on, and so that is what I’ve been trying to do. I’ve got some amazing and experienced players around me in the camp here, and I’m trying to take in as much information as I can, and also train myself to get better in all areas including goal-scoring,” he said.

The 21-year-old idolises two of

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the best players his state has produced in Dilip Tirkey and current fellow core probable Birendra Lakra, and wants to emulate their longevity.

“I think both of them have been exceptional in their respective journeys, and I get so much inspiration when I speak to them, and read about how the struggles they had to endure in order to get to the biggest stage,” said Shilanand.

“It is a marvellous achievement for both to have played so many years at the top level, and that longevity is something I would like to have in my career as well, and give back to my nation and my state in some way,” he added.

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Bollywood actors who Kangana, sister granted interim moved away from the protection from coercive action limelight Mumbai, Nov 25 (IANS): Failure, competition and the pressure of staying relevant perennially looms on actors in Bollywood. Some can cope with it and some cannot.

Those who cannot, often quit and opt for a different path in another field.

IANS has jotted out a few names, that courted the limelight for a while but could not continue their journey in the world of glitz and sparkle called Bollywood.

words, her “relationship with my religion (was) threatened”.

In an explosive long post on her Facebook page, the 18-year-old cited religious reasons for her decision to quit her promising career in Bollywood. Her last big screen outing was last year with Shonali Bose’s “The Sky Is Pink”.

IMRAN KHAN Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan’s nephew Imran Khan has quit Bollywood as an actor.

He broke the news earlier this month. Imran made his debut in Hindi film industry in 2008 with the hit film “Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na”. However, most of what followed was forgettable fare as “Luck”, “Kidnap”, “I Hate Luv Story” and “Break Ke Baad”. There was “Delhi Belly” in 2011, but that was an odd success, clearly not enough. Imran’s last big screen outing was in 2015 with Kangana Ranaut in “Katti Batti”.

SANA KHAN In October, actress Sana Khan announced that she was quitting the world of showbiz in order to serve humanity and follow the path of her Creator. The 32-yearold is best known for her stint on “Bigg Boss 6” and was also a contestant on “Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 6”. She was also seen in the 2014 Salman Khan-starrer “Jai Ho” and the web series “Special OPS” that dropped earlier this year. Sana has worked in a handful of Tamil and Telugu films, too. Sana has now tied the knot with Gujarat-based Mufti and has changed her name to Sayeida Sana Khan.

ZAIRA WASIM Zaira quit Bollywood in 2019. The Kashmiri girl who became famous overnight after her superb debut in Aamir Khan’s 2016 blockbuster “Dangal”, decided to say goodbye to her film career because in her

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A division bench comprising Justice S.S. Shinde and Justice M.S. Karnik accepted advocate Rizwan Siddique’s undertaking that the two sisters would report to the Mumbai Police in response to the summons served on them.

Advocate Rizwan Merchant, representing the complainant Munawarli Sahil A. Sayyed, requested that the two sisters must refrain from making any “instigating statements” on social media platforms, to which the court agreed and barred them from publishing anything pertaining to the subject matter in the Bandra Police FIR, said lawyer Ravish Zamindar.

Tanushree Dutta TANUSHREE DUTTA She recently made news after she opened the floodgates for the #Metoo movement in India.

Tanushree was away from the spotlight for almost eight years before she came back from abroad and talked about her harassment incident involving actor Nana Patekar on the sets of “Horn ‘Ok’ Pleassss”. Tanushree was last seen on the big screen in the 2010 film “Apartment”.

KUMAR GAURAV He made his debut in the 1981 super hit “Love Story”, and instantly became a teenybopper heartthrob of his generation.

However, becoming typecast as a lover boy, his luck ran out soon enough. Over the years, he tried to change his image several times with films such as “Goonj”, “Kaante”, “Naam” and “Janam”. While these roles were appreciated, they could not revive his career. His last release was in the year 2006, titled “My Daddy Strongest”.

MAYURI KANGO

Zaira Wasim

Mumbai, Nov 24 (IANS): The Bombay High Court on November 24 granted interim protection from “coercive action” to Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut and her sister Rangoli Chandel after they agreed to appear before Bandra police on January 8, 2021 in connection with a sedition case filed against them.

Mayuri Kango made her debut in Saeed Mirza’s 1995 art film, “Naseem”, and entered mainstream Bollywood a year later with the Mahesh Bhatt film “Papa Kehte Hain”. Despite hit music and immense pre-release hype, “Papa Kehte Hain” failed to live up to expectations at the box office. Her songs in the film, notably “Ghar se nikalti hi” sung

by Udit Narayan, continue to be popular. She has worked in films such as “Betaabi”, “Hogi Pyaar Ki Jeet”, “Papa The Great” and “Badal”. Mayuri quit her acting career in 2003. She is currently in Google, working as the Head of Industry going by her Linkedin profile.

However, both Chief Public Prosecutor Deepak Thakre, and Sayyed’s lawyer Merchant opposed the grant of interim relief to the sisters by the High Court in the matter.

The high court orders came in a plea filed by Ranaut-Chandel on November 23 to quash the police FIR, lodged on October 17 by the orders of the Bandra Court Metropolitan Magistrate

Rangoli Chandel and Kangana Ranaut J.Y. Ghule, over the alleged hateful social media posts by the duo.

Following the FIR, the sisters were issued summons to appear on three different dates which they skipped on various grounds.

In response to the latest (third) summons for appearing before Bandra Police Station on November 23-24, the sisters on November 23 moved the Bombay High Court which took up the matter for hearing on November 24.

“Among the charges are those under Section 124-A (sedition) of the Indian Penal Code besides spreading communal hatred and falsehoods. The police have already recorded the statement of Sayyed in this connection in October,” Zamindar said.

A Bollywood casting director and fitness trainer, Sayyed had accused Kangana and Rangoli of defaming the film industry, portraying the people working in it in a bad light with claims of nepotism, drug addiction, communal bias, and attempting to drive a wedge between artistes of different communities, calling them murderers, insulting religions etc. on the social media and through public statements.

In his complaint, he also charged the Ranaut sisters with seeking to create a Hindu-Muslim divide through objectionable comments, citing Rangoli’s “make the mullahs and secular media stand in line and shoot them down; history may call us Nazis, who cares” remarks.

Malayalam actress abduction case: Actor-turned-legislator’s staffer arrested Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 24 (IANS): The Malayalam actress abduction case took a new turn on November 24 with an aide to an actor-turned-legislator being arrested from Kerala’s Kollam district.

Police from Bekal in Kasargode district came to Kollam and took into custody Pradip Kumar, a staffer of ruling Left Democratic Front legislator K.B.Ganesh Kumar, for trying to influence approver Vipin Lal at his home town in Kasargode early this year.

Meanwhile, Vipin Lal said that Pradip Kumar is only “a small fry”.

“A probe has to take place on this conspiracy as Kumar is only a small fry. There are big fishes behind this,” he said.

and spent several weeks in jail before securing bail.

Dileep has been named as a conspirator in the case and been charged with “revenge crime”.

Since securing bail, he has been allegedly trying to delay the trial in the case, through legal submissions, even before the apex court.

Incidentally, this case even rocked the smooth functioning of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes wherein a group of woman actors raised a banner of revolt in the way it had handled the issue.

This new development came at

a time when in a setback to the Kerala government and the victim in the actress abduction case, the High Court last week declined to order the case be shifted from the special court, set up under a woman judge, to another court.

Now all eyes are on when the trial court is all set to resume the trial proceedings in the case.

This new development might have some repercussions for Dileep.

In the trial that began early this year, the court has by now examined close to 200 witnesses, even as the apex court had directed that there should be no more delays and that the verdict be positively delivered in January 2021.

A court in Kasargode had on November 23 refused anticipatory bail to Pradip Kumar and hours later, he was taken into custody.

The actress was abducted and assaulted in a moving car in Kochi on February 17, 2017.

Hugely popular Malayalam film actor Dileep was arrested in July 2017 in connection with the case

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OTT wave takes flavours of India Women dominate into international showbiz space 2021 Grammy

nominations Los Angeles, Nov 25 (IANS): The 2021 Grammy Awards nominations are all about women power with Beyonce, Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa leading the way.

Beyonce is the leading contender at the 2021 Grammy Awards with nine nods. She is followed

by Taylor Swift, Roddy Ricch and Dua Lipa, who earned six nominations each.

Brittany Howard, of Alabama Shakes fame, earned five nominations for her solo debut.

Earning four each were Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, DaBaby, Phoebe Bridgers, Justin Bieber, jazz pianist John Beasley and classical producer David Frost, reports Variety.

New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS): Slowly but surely, India and Indianness are foraying the world of showbiz in the West, and much of it has to do with the country’s growing presence in the OTT space. The success of Delhi Crime at the International Emmys is, as Shefali Shah rightly said, a cherry on the sundae, but Indian stories and Indian talent of the digital space have been making a strong impact the way Bollywood or our mainstream cinema never really did.

IANS draws up a list of Indian artistes and themes that are carving a space in the worldwide OTT space.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS Her Hollywood debut and musical sojourns in the West had mixed responses, but her OTT foray in the international arena seems more assured. After “Isn’t It Romantic”, she will soon be seen in “We Can Be Heroes” and “The White Tiger”. The actress has also sealed a two-year multimilliondollar, first-look television deal with the global streaming platform Amazon. “My Amazon television deal is a global deal, so I can do Hindi language, I can do English language, I can do whatever language I want,” she had said about the deal.

Presently, Priyanka is also collaborating with Amazon on two television projects. The first is “Sangeet”, an unscripted series co-produced with her husband, Nick Jonas, based on the Indian pre-wedding tradition in which the families of the bride and groom compete against each other in song and dance. The other project is “Citadel”, Anthony and Joe Russo’s spy series in which she will star with Richard Madden.

CITADEL The global event series come from “Avengers” directors Joe and Anthony Russo. It will unite Richard Madden and

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The show, described as an actiondriven spy series, will feature interconnected, local-language versions of the story in several other countries. The show, which will be available on Amazon Prime Video, will feature interconnected, local-language versions of the story in several other countries, including India.

MINDY KALING Mindy Kaling traced her relationship with Indian culture and used her “relationship with being Hindu” to narrate the story of a 15-year-old Devi, firstgeneration Indian American, and her desperation to feel that she belongs in the society in the delightful “Never Have I Ever”.

The Netflix show was a big hit, and has been renewed for a second season.

THE WHITE TIGER American-Iranian director Ramin Bahrani has brought his expertise to make India-centric “The White Tiger” for Netflix. The film stars Adarsh Gourav along with Priyanka Chopra and Rajkummar Rao. The director enjoyed working in India, and shared that he wants to make another film in the country soon.

RADHIKA APTE The actress will be uniting with Charlie Hunnam in “Shantaram”.

The show is based on Gregory David Roberts’ 2003 novel of the same name and tells the story of Lin (Hunnam), a man on the run from an Australian prison looking to hide in Mumbai. It is about how he finds a new life in the slums and the underworld of the megapolis.

It is reported that the Apple TV series might star megastar Amitabh Bachchan, and will be shot in India itself.

MA ANAND SHEELA Ma Anand Sheela, who shot to global fame with Netflix’s documentary “Wild Wild Country”

on controversial spiritual guru Rajneesh, will be getting her own version on the streaming platform. .The documentary is backed by filmmaker Karan Johar.

HUMA QURESHI Huma Qureshi will soon be seen in American filmmaker Zack Snyder’s Netflix original film, “Army Of The Dead”. It follows a zombie outbreak in Las Vegas even as a man assembles a group of mercenaries to pull off the greatest heist ever.

INDIRA VARMA Another Indian origin celebrity who arrived in the scene much before Mindy Kaling, the British actress has made her mark on the all-time blockbuster series “Game Of Thrones”, the Amazon show “Carnival Row” and the film “The One And Only Ivan”, which released on Disney+ Hotstar.

As a shocker, The Weeknd didn’t get nominated. Despite being predicted to dominate the nominations at the 63rd annual Grammys, the pop-R&B superstar’s “Blinding lights” single and “After Hours” album got zero nominations.

Beyonce will be competing against herself in the Record of the Year category. She is nominated in the category for “Black Parade” as well as “Savage”. She fights Black Pumas, DaBaby, Doja Cat, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Post Malone

for the trophy.

Swift’s six nominations include five for her “Folklore” album or its “Cardigan” single and one for her collaboration with Andrew Lloyd Webber on an original song for the film version of “Cats”.

Her competitors in the Album of the Year category include Dua Lipa, Post Malone, Coldplay, Jhen Aiko, Jacob Collier, HAIM and Black Pumas.

K-pop super band BTS got a Best Pop Duo/Group Performance nod for their first single sung entirely in English, “Dynamite”.

Dua Lipa got nominations in the categories of Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “Don’t Start Now” and Album of the Year for “Future Nostalgia”. Dua Lipa and Beyonce are joined in the Song of the Year category by fellow six-time nominees Roddy Ricch and Taylor Swift.

Ricch has the most Grammy nominations for any male artiste this year. He is up for Song of the Year for “The Box” and Record of the Year for “Rockstar” with DaBaby.

The 63rd Grammy Awards will be held on January 31, 2021 and will be showcased live in India on Vh1 India.

Dimple Kapadia announces release date of ‘Tenet’ in India

UTKARSH AMBUDKAR Indian origin American actor Utkarsh Ambudkar, who acted in “Pitch Perfect” and “Blindspotting”, will be seen in a Christmas comedy “Godmothered”, which will release on Disney+ Hotstar.

RIZWAN MANJI Canadian actor of Indian origin Rizwan Manji is known for playing the character of Ray Bhutani in Netflix’s “Schitt’s Creek”, which made history at the 72nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards as it took home the majority of awards at the ceremony, which was held virtually amid the coronavirus pandemic this year.

A SUITABLE BOY Mira Nair’s latest is a web series adapted from the Vikram Seth novel of the same name, and it features Tabu, Ishaan Khatter and newcomer Tanya Maniktala.

It is a story of two young lovers who dare to break tradition and stereotypes in newly independent India. The limited series was launched on Netflix globally,

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Veteran Bollywood actress Dimple Kapadia Mumbai, Nov 22 (IANS): Veteran actress Dimple Kapadia has announced that her muchawaited Hollywood film “Tenet”, helmed by Christopher Nolan, will release on December 4 in India.

Dimple said.

“I’m extremely delighted to announce the release of Christopher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ on December 4 all across cinemas in India. It has been an honour for me to be associated with this project. The film has some spectacular action sequences, turns and twists that you can best enjoy only on the big screen,”

Nolan wrote and directed the film, which is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures in theatres.

The sci-fi action film also stars Robert Pattinson, John David Washington, Elizabeth Debicki, Martin Donovan, Michael Caine and Kenneth Branagh.

“Tenet”, which was shot in India, the US, the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Italy and Norway, will be available to the Indian audience in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu languages.

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