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Category: India

  • G20 summit: UK PM Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murthy's three-day India tripindia


    Rishi Sunak with wife Akshata Murthy

    UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrived here on Friday to attend the G20 Summit being held on September 9 and 10. He is accompanied by his wife Akshata Murthy.

    Image Source: ANI

    Union minister Ashwini Kumar Choubey welcomes Sunak

    Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ashwini Kumar Choubey received Sunak and his wife at the airport.

    Image Source: ANI

    UK PM visits The British Council of India

    Rishi Sunak visited the British Council of India on Friday afternoon after arriving in India. In the pictures, Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murthy were seen interacting with school kids.

    Image Source: ANI

    ‘Meeting with the world leaders of tommorrow’

    In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Sunak wrote: “Before meeting the world leaders of today I’ve been meeting with the world leaders of tomorrow. It’s been fantastic to visit students and staff here at British Council of India – a reflection of the living bridge that exists between the UK and India.”

    Image Source: Agencies

    PM Modi welcomes Rishi Sunak

    As the gracious host, Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed the leaders, reserving his warmest hug and broadest smile for British PM Rishi Sunak. When Sunak approached, Modi extended a hand and then shared a 45-second conversation while embracing the British PM.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Sunak’s late night walk with wife

    After a bilateral meeting with PM Modi at his official residence, Rishi Sunak went for a late night walk along with his wife. In the photographs, the couple was seen walking along in the backdrop of the presence of security personnel and guards.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Akshata Murthy at G20 leaders spouses special event

    Akshata Murthy led the tour to the Indian Agriculture Research Institute Campus, PUSA. The visit showcased India’s achievements in agriculture, highlighting innovations in agri-tech, the agriculture value chain, and eco-friendly millets.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Rishi Sunak with wife Akshata Murthy at dinner

    In Delhi, UK PM Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty joined G-20 dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, preceded by a productive meeting with PM Modi.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Rishi Sunak offers prayers at Akshardham temple

    UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited teh Akshardham temoke in Delhi on a Sunday morning, expressing his hope to explore more temples during his stay for the G20 Summit.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Akshata Murthy and Sunak’s proud Hindu identity

    UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murthy proudly identifies as a Hindu, empasising the significance of faith in life.

    Image Source: Agencies

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  • G20 Summit: Sari, kurta, bandhgala make their own Delhi declarationindia


    Mauritian PM’s Regal Bandhgala

    Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth was elegantly attired in a traditional bandhgala, while his wife, Kobita Jugnauth, wore a charming chikan sari.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Italian elegance with an Indian twist

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s chic black ensemble was accentuated by an Indian stole.

    Image Source: Agencies

    IMF leadership’s stylish statements

    IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva opted for a stylish purple kurta-trouser ensemble.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Gita Gopinath in a sari

    Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Gita Gopinath, graced the occasion in a striking blue and red sari.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Ajay Banga’s subtle Bharatiya influence

    Ajay Banga, though a ‘foreign’ dignitary, embraced the Bharatiya zeitgeist with his discreet dark suits and turbans. His wife Ritu complemented his look with a shimmery Chanderi sari adorned with gold motifs.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Classic Benarasi elegance

    President Droupadi Murmu looked classic in an off-white Benarasi sari with a contrast zari border.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Bangladesh PM’s fusion fashion

    Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accompanied by her sister at the President’s dinner, drew admiration by donning a dazzling fusion of two types of jamdani weaves in a single sari during her meeting with PM Modi.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Japanese PM Kishida’s wife in a sari

    Japanese PM Fumio Kishida’s wife Yuko stole the show with her stunning zari-bordered green and pink silk sari, matching blouse, and bindi.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murthy’s attire

    British PM Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murthy made a more explicit nod to their heritage during an early morning puja at the Akshardham Mandir, with Rishi wearing a tilak, and Akshata donning a mehendi green Fabindia kurta paired with magenta palazzos and a dupatta.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Fashion statements

    Akshata murthy chose a skirt and top featuring desi motifs for the dinner, and a dress for a British Council event, cleverly signaling their sartorial choices.

    Image Source: Agencies

    International leaders embraced Indian fashion

    The presence of saris, kurta outfits, bandhgalas, and bundi jackets at international gatherings is becoming increasingly familiar, thanks to the fashion choices of foreign leaders, their spouses, and delegates.

    Image Source: Agencies

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  • After a successful mission to Moon, Indian scientists preparing project Samudrayaanindia


    Deep ocean mission

    Project Samudrayaan to send three people 6000 meters underwater in an indigenously made submersible to look for precious metals and minerals.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Scientists developing Matsya 6000

    National Institute of Ocean Technology scientists developing Matsya 6000, reviewed the design, materials, testing, certification, redundancy and standard operating procedures.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Two years making time

    India’s indigenous submersible, Matsya 6000 will undergo its first sea trials in the Bay of Bengal off the Chennai coast in early 2024.​

    Image Source: Reuters

    Exploring ocean depths

    Besides looking for nickel, cobalt, manganese and gas hydrates, Matsya 6000 will investigate chemosynthetic biodiversity in hydrothermal vents and low temperature methane seeps in the ocean.

    Image Source: PTI

    Designed by NIOT and ISRO

    NIOT’s Director, GA Ramadass, announced the creation of a 2.1m diameter titanium alloy sphere for Matsya 6000, designed to endure 600 bar pressure at a depth of 6,000 meters.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Oxygen to be supplied for 96 hours

    The vehicle is designed to operate for 12 to 16 hours at a stretch, but the oxygen supply will be available for 96 hours.

    Image Source: ANI

    Mission to be accomplished by 2026

    The mission is expected to be realised by 2026. Only the US, Russia, Japan, France and China have developed manned submersible.

    Image Source: Reuters

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  • ​Saudi Crown Prince meets PM Modi​india


    Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s grand arrival at Rashtrapati Bhavan

    The Saudi Crown Prince arrived in Delhi on a three-day visit on Saturday and has stayed back after the G20 Summit for his state visit.

    Image Source: PTI

    A strategic meet after G20 success

    Following the ceremonial reception, Prince Mohammed bin Salman will met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a bilateral at the Hyderabad House.

    Image Source: Reuters

    Greater cooperation and collaboration

    The two sides also agreed to diversify the current status of their hydrocarbons relationship into a “comprehensive energy partnership” and inked eight pacts to boost cooperation in a range of areas including digitisation and investment.

    Image Source: ANI

    Connecting Continents: Salman and Modi Discuss Mega Shipping Corridor

    ​At the G20 Leaders’ Summit on Saturday, India, the United States, Saudi Arabia and the European Union announced a historic agreement to launch a mega India-Middle East-Europe shipping and railway connectivity corridor.

    Image Source: ANI

    Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulates India for successful G20 presidency

    “Well done India, a lot of announcements made that will benefit both our countries, the G20 countries and the whole world. So I want to say to India well done, and we will work to create a future for both countries” he said.

    Image Source: AFP

    Documenting Progress: Salman and Modi Exchange Key Agreements

    The Saudi Crown Prince signed the minutes of the first meeting of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council at the Hyderabad House the same day.

    Image Source: ANI

    Salman Applauds the India-Middle East-Europe Initiative

    Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expresses appreciation for the transformative India-Middle East-Europe initiative, emphasizing its significance for economic integration.

    Image Source: ANI

    A Royal Stroll: Prince Mohammed bin Salman Explores Rashtrapati Bhavan

    Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman then inspected a combined defence services Guard of Honour.

    Image Source: PTI

    Crown Prince also met President of India

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu welcomed the Saudi Arabian Crown Prince at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

    Image Source: ANI

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  • List of gift hampers given to G20 representatives of countries by Modi governmentindia


    Handcrafted artefacts and products

    The G20 gift hamper featured handcrafted artefacts from Bharat, renowned worldwide for their centuries-old craftsmanship and quality.

    Image Source: TNN

    Sheeshamwood Sandook with Brass Patti

    “Sandook,” Hindi for treasure chest, represents India’s rich cultural heritage with exquisite craftsmanship. Handcrafted from Indian Rosewood and adorned with delicately etched brass, it’s both a visual masterpiece and functional storage.

    Image Source: TNN

    Saffron from Kashmir

    Kashmiri Saffron, a prized spice, valued for culinary and medicinal uses, extracted from labor-intensive harvesting. Known for its potency, owes its quality to the region’s climate and soil. Besides luxury cooking, it offers health benefits due to its antioxidant richness.

    Image Source: TNN

    Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea

    Pekoe Darjeeling and Nilgiri Tea, Indian tea gems, reflect unique cultivation art. Darjeeling boasts aromatic high-altitude tea, while Nilgiri is favored for its mildness and suitability for iced tea.

    Image Source: TNN

    Araku Coffee

    World’s first terroir-mapped coffee, originates from Andhra Pradesh’s Araku Valley, embodying its organic, hand-cultivated essence. It offers a rare, aromatic profile and well-balanced flavors for a distinctive coffee experience.

    Image Source: TNN

    Sundarbans Multiflora Mangrove Honey

    Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, hosts wild honeybee colonies, where traditional beehive hunting still thrives. Sundarbans honey, with its unique flavor from mangrove flower nectar, offers health benefits and natural purity.

    Image Source: TNN

    Kashmiri Pashmina

    Kashmiri Pashmina, sourced from the unique Changthangi goat’s wool at 14,000 feet, is a masterpiece of handcrafted elegance and tradition, once a symbol of nobility and now a blend of craftsmanship, exclusivity, and style.

    Image Source: TNN

    Zighrana Ittar

    Crafted in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, is a fragrant masterpiece distilled from rare blossoms, evoking the heritage of the region and transporting one to ancient bazaars and royal courts.​

    Image Source: TNN

    Khadi scarf for State heads and leaders by PM Modi

    Khadi, born in India, is eco-friendly, versatile fabric with rich texture, symbolizing India’s freedom movement, handcrafted by rural artisans, and embodying sustainable fashion.

    Image Source: TNN

    Coin Box

    In honor of India’s G20 Presidency, special stamps and coins were released, reflecting the theme of ‘One Earth. One Family. One Future’ and celebrating India’s diverse heritage and journey towards 100 years of independence.

    Image Source: TNN

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  • List of gift hampers given to World leader's spouses by Modi governmentindia


    Yuko Kishida, wife of Japanese PM Fumio Kishida

    Kanjivaram silk stole, a masterpiece of Indian weaving, boasts rich colors, intricate designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. Crafted from durable mulberry silk, it exudes elegance. Presented in a Kadam wood Jali box, symbolizing Indian cultural significance, handcrafted by Kerala artisans.

    Image Source: TNN

    Akshata Murty, wife of UK PM Rishi Sunak

    Banarasi silk stole, a symbol of India’s elegance, is handcrafted in Varanasi with luxurious silk, showcasing intricate patterns reflecting the city’s rich culture. Presented in a Kadam wood box, crafted by Karnataka artisans.

    Image Source: TNN

    ​Mauritius PM’s wife Kobita Ramdanee

    Artisans of Odisha crafted a timeless mulberry silk stole using the exquisite Ikat technique, creating a symphony of shades. Presented in a Teak wood box handcrafted by Gujarat artisans.

    Image Source: TNN

    Australian PM’s partner Jodie Haydon

    Kashmiri Pashmina stole, crafted from Himalayan goat wool, weaved by skilled artisans for a light, warm, and elegant piece. Presented in a papier-mache box, showcasing the delicate craft of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Image Source: TNN

    ​Argentina President’s wife Fabiola Yáñez

    Banarasi silk stoles, soft as dreams, embody India’s elegance. Crafted in Varanasi, they feature intricate patterns reflecting the city’s culture. Presented in an Ebony wood Jali box, handcrafted by Kerala artisans, showcasing delicate lattice work on fine Indian ebony wood.

    Image Source: TNN

    Rosângela da Silva, First Lady of Brazil

    Kashmiri Pashmina stole, crafted from Himalayan goat wool, weaved by skilled artisans for a light, warm, and elegant piece. Presented in a papier-mache box, showcasing the delicate craft of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Image Source: TNN

    President of Indonesia’s wife Iriana Joko Widodo

    Assam stoles, woven with Muga silk, reflect the region’s natural beauty through intricate designs. Presented in a Kadam wood box, revered in Indian culture, handcrafted by Karnataka artisans, adding cultural significance to this traditional attire.

    Image Source: TNN

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  • Kerala reports two Nipah virus deaths; Expert team dispatched by Centreindia


    ​Nipah virus resurfaces in Kerala

    Nipah virus infection has resurfaced in Kozhikode district for the third time in the past five years, causing the death of a 40-year-old man, Mangalatt Haris of Ayanchery, on Monday as well as two relatives of a 49-year-old man, Kallat Mohammedali of Maruthonkara, who died on August 30.

    Image Source: Reuters

    ​Nipah: Four cases confirmed

    4 cases of the contagious viral infection has been confirmed in the state. Among the infected ones are a nine year old kid, and a 25 year old male. 49 year old Kallat Mohammedali is said to be the index case of the outbreak, reports have said.

    Image Source: NYT News Service

    State health department on alert

    Health minister Veena George said preventive and disease management measures as per the state government’s Nipah protocol had been activated while intense contract tracing and surveillance measures were underway. She has urged people to wear face masks and undertake hospital visits only for exigencies.

    Image Source: ANI

    ​Expert team dispatched by Centre

    A central team of experts has been sent to Kerala to take stock of the situation and assist the state government in the management of the Nipah virus infection, Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya said.

    Image Source: ANI

    What is Nipah virus?

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines nipah infection as a zoonotic illness that is transmitted to people from animals, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly from person-to-person.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​Nipah: Signs and symptoms

    Infected people have fever, headaches, myalgia, vomiting and sore throat. People also complain of dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. The incubation period is 4 to 14 days, mostly.

    Image Source: PTI

    ​How severe is it?

    “Most people make a full recovery, although some are left with residual neurological conditions after acute encephalitis. Some cases of relapse have been reported,” the WHO says. The fatality rate is 40-75%.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​Fruit bats; the hosts of Nipah virus

    The virus spreads to humans from bats and pigs mostly, through contaminated food. Fruit bats are the hosts of the virus which is highly contagious in nature. It can also spread from human to human directly.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​Previous outbreaks in Kerala

    Till date, Kozhikode, Kerala has witnessed three Nipah outbreaks. The first one at Changaroth near Perambra in May 2018 claimed 17 lives. Nipah was reported again in Sept 2021, when a 12-year-old boy from Chathamangalam died.

    Image Source: PTI

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  • Indian Air Force received first C-295 transport plane from Spainindia


    Air Chief to receive the plane

    Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari was in Spain to receive the aircraft that has been made for India by global aircraft manufacturer Airbus at its facility in Seville.

    Image Source: PTI

    IAF: Largest operator of C-295

    Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, who was at the ceremony, said the IAF will soon become the largest operator of the C-295 aircraft.

    Image Source: ANI

    Manufacturing facility in Vadodara

    A joint venture of Tata and Airbus in Vadodara, Gujarat, will manufacture 40 C-295 planes.

    Image Source: ANI

    The contract negotiations

    VR Chaudhari had led the contract negotiations as the then deputy Chief of Air Staff. The contract, worth nearly Rs 22,000 crore, was signed in September 2021.

    Image Source: ANI

    A major milestone

    “It is a major milestone not only for the IAF but for the whole country. This is for two reasons – first, for IAF it improves our tactical airlift capabilities. For the nation, it marks the beginning of a new era. For Atmanirbhar Bharat, after the first 16 aircraft roll out from this plant, the 17th aircraft onwards will be made in India.” said the air chief.

    Image Source: ANI

    India to join exclusive group of C-295 manufacturers

    Once India starts building the C-295 planes, it will join a select group of countries that can manufacture the aircraft. Others in the group include US, UK, Russia, France, Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Brazil, China, and Japan.

    Image Source: ANI

    Key features of the C-295 transport plane

    The C-295 transport plane has a capacity of 5-10 tonnes and can carry troops, para-troopers, and cargo. It has low-level flight characteristics, rear ramp doors, and an indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite.

    Image Source: PTI

    Delivery schedule and induction ceremony

    ​The plane will fly to India after the ceremony,” defence officials told ANI. The aircraft is expected to be inducted formally into the service at a ceremony in Hindon Air Force Base around the end of September.

    Image Source: ANI

    Flight route and pilot

    The C-295 plane will be flown to India by Group Captain PS Negi, with stopovers at Malta, Egypt, and Bahrain before landing at Vadodara air base.

    Image Source: ANI

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  • 3 martyred at Anantnag encounter in J&K; protests heldindia


    ​Intense gunfight

    Col Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, and DSP Humayun Bhat of J&K Police were killed in a terrorist encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​Forces received a tip-off

    Reports indicated that the terrorists were spotted and encircled in Gadool following a tip-off.

    Image Source: PTI

    Pakistani blog calls it- ‘a surprise counterattack’

    A blog called “Kashmir Fight”, allegedly operated from Rawalpindi in Pakistan, claimed that “Resistance Fighters carried out a surprise counterattack on SOG and the Indian Army in Kokernag Gadool in Anantnag area”.

    Image Source: ANI

    ​Lashkar-e-Taiba link suspected

    The terrorists are suspected to be from The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of the Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba.

    Image Source: ANI

    Colonel was about to retire in 4 months

    Colonel Singh had dedicated around 17 years to the Indian Army. His was about to retire in just four months, after which, he was expected to be posted at a peaceful station. Singh belonged to 12th Sikh Light Infantry.

    Image Source: PTI

    ‘A sena medal recipient’

    Major Dhonchak was a Sena Medal recipient. He hailed from Haryana Panipat district.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​DSP Bhat got married last year

    The DSP, son of former DIG Ghulam Hasan Bhat, is survived by his wife and three-month-old son. He had gotten married only last year. He hailed from Tral in Pulwama district.

    Image Source: IANS

    ​Over 140 killed in terror attacks in 4 years

    An Army soldier and five policemen were also wounded in the shootout. A total of 119 Army, CAPF and J&K police personnel have been killed in terrorism-related attacks in Kashmir zone, and 24 in Jammu region, from August 5, 2019 to August 1 this year.

    Image Source: IANS

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  • Anantnag encounter: Last rites of fallen heroes held, mourners flood final journeyindia


    Nation mourns death of heroes

    The nation paid tributes to Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and DSP Bhat who were killed during an encounter in J&K’s Anantnag. ​

    Image Source: Agencies

    J&K LG pays tributes to slain DSP

    The last rites of DSP Bhat were performed in Budgam on Wednesday evening. Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the deaths of the officers in the encounter, while also paying tributes to the slain DSP at Budgam on Wednesday.

    Image Source: Agencies

    Major’s mortal remains consigned to flames

    The mortal remains of Major Dhonchak were consigned to the flames on Friday with full military honours. His body reached Panipat on Friday and was taken to his native village where the last rites were conducted after a wreath-laying ceremony and a gun salute.

    Image Source: IANS

    Colonel was about to retire in four months

    Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was commanding 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) Battalion and died in a counter insurgency operation in Anantnag on Wednesday, was about to complete his tenure with RR in four months.

    Image Source: PTI

    6-year-old son bids farewell

    A stoic six-year-old dressed in Army fatigue saluted his father one last time as Colonel Manpreet Singh, was cremated at his village in Punjab’s Mohali district on Friday.

    Image Source: PTI

    Tributes pour in

    Colonel Singh’s house in Bharaunjian village witnessed a steady stream of mourners who joined his inconsolable wife, mother and other family members in his final journey.

    Image Source: PTI

    Gunfight enters third day

    The gunfight between a Army personnel, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the terrorists in Anantnag’s Kokernag entered the third straight day on Friday. Efforts to locate and neutralise the gunmen are under way.

    Image Source: PTI

    Quadcopters and drones pressed into service

    Officials said the security personnel involved in the operation, which broke out on Wednesday, were being assisted by quadcopters and drones in the ongoing efforts to locate the terrorists.

    Image Source: PTI

    Army recovers warlike stores with ‘Pakistan markings’

    Security forces said they recovered warlike stores, including medicines, with Pakistan markings during a search amid the encounter that carried over into Wednesday evening.

    Image Source: PTI

    Candlelight marches held in Kupwara, Kulgam

    In heartfelt tributes to the bravehearts, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty during the Kokernag encounter, people from all walks of life took part in a candlelight march on Thursday evening in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara and Kulgam.

    Image Source: Agencies

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