Tag: India

India invested over $240 billion in water sector: Jal Shakti min to UN

[ad_1]
United Nations: India has committed investments of more than 240 billion dollars in the water sector and is implementing the largest dam rehabilitation programme in the world as well as efforts to restore groundwater level, Minister of Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat told the UN.
Shekhawat highlighted the ambitious programmes and efforts being undertaken in India towards ensuring water security and achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 of clean water and sanitation for all as he addressed the UN Water Conference 2023 Thursday.
“We have committed investments of more than 240 billion dollars in the water sector through government resources, in partnership with private innovators, start-ups, and water-user associations. India is implementing two flagship missions to ensure universal access to sanitation and drinking water,” Shekhawat said, delivering the national statement in the UN General Assembly.
He said India is implementing the largest dam rehabilitation programme in the world, to build climate resilience critical water storage infrastructure. Further, due to the country’s unique geography, India is among the largest users of groundwater in the world.
“However, today we are making efforts to restore groundwater level and create mindful communities by combining demand and supply side interventions through village Water Security Plans, inculcating behavioural changes on water usage and conservation at the grass-root level, financing these plans through incentives and convergence of existing programmes,” he said adding that this has led to creating greater community ownership in the equitable management of water at a local level.
Shekhawat told the conference that India’s ambitious National Mission for Clean Ganga or Namami Gange has been recently recognised by the UN Convention of Biodiversity conference COP15 held at Montreal as one of the top 10 World Restoration Flagships to revive the natural world.
“This mission has created a paradigm shift in river rejuvenation, pollution abatement, conservation of ecosystems and holistic approach to river basin management,” he said.
In this regard, Arth Ganga, a model of circular economy, fully aligns with SDG goals 6.3 and 6.6 with 6(b) in creating environmentally friendly sustainable practices of resource management by local communities for water security.

He emphasised that the government’s Jal Jeevan Mission’ or Water Life Mission aims to achieve safe and affordable drinking water in rural households by 2024 and manage its own in-village water supply systems.
“With a commitment to successfully implement this ambitious 50 billion dollar programme in mission mode, we are poised to achieve SDG 6.1 well before 2030,” he said, referring to the target of achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030.
He further said that India’s Swachh Bharat Mission or Clean India Mission milestone was reached in 2019 when the country was declared open defecation free.
“In our journey to achieve SDG 6.2, since 2014 we have built over 105 million toilets, and transformed sanitation habits through mass scale behaviour change of more than 600 million Indians.”
The campaign continues through efforts at ensuring sustainable solid and liquid waste management solutions in all 600,000 villages and communities in India. The SGD 6.2 target aims to achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation by 2030, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations.
He noted that at the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26), Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the concept of LiFE or “Lifestyle for Environment”.
This concept was translated into an action agenda with the launch of “Mission LiFE” by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and PM Modi in October 2022.
“The initiative is aimed at encouraging people to pick pro-planet sustainable choices in their daily lives, to live sustainably and reduce our environmental footprint, and is driven by the concept of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’.”
Underscoring that water is at the heart of Mission LiFE, Shekhawat appealed to all delegates at the conference to successfully adopt mission LiFE in this international decade for action on the water.
The UN 2023 Water Conference formally known as the 2023 Conference for the Midterm Comprehensive Review of Implementation of the UN Decade for Action on Water and Sanitation (2018-2028) is currently underway at UN Headquarters.
Co-hosted by Tajikistan and the Netherlands, the March 22-24 conference will result in a summary of proceedings from the UNGA President that will feed into the 2023 session of the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.
[ad_2]
#India #invested #billion #water #sector #Jal #Shakti #min
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 24, 2023
World does not need lessons on democracy and human rights from Pakistan: India at UNHRC

[ad_1]
Geneva: India on Thursday said the world does not need lessons on democracy and human rights from Pakistan whose contribution as a leading exporter of terror and violence is unparalleled and where terrorists thrive and roam its streets with impunity.
Exercising India’s Right of Reply at the 52nd Session of Human Rights Council General Debate, Under Secretary Dr. P R Thulasidass also called on Pakistan to focus on the safety, security and well-being of its minority communities instead of engaging in futile propaganda and attempting to foment communal disharmony in India.
“From a country where terrorists thrive and roam its streets with impunity, the world does not need lessons on democracy and human rights. Pakistan’s contribution as a leading exporter of terror and violence is unparalleled,” Thulasidass said.
He underlined that Pakistan is home to as many as 150 UN designated terrorists and terrorist entities listed by the UN, and these proscribed individuals have actively campaigned and contested in elections.
“Can Pakistan deny the fact that impunity reigns supreme in the country as perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks continue to roam free?…Can Pakistan deny the fact that the world’s most wanted terrorist Osama bin Laden was found living in Pakistan near a military academy, sheltered and protected by the deep State?” he asked.
Asserting that Jammu and Kashmir was, is and shall forever remain an integral part of India, Thulasidass said that the union territory is marching towards peace and prosperity along with the rest of India.
“This is despite Pakistan’s repeated attempts to derail the process, through its active and sustained support to terror groups and its malicious disinformation campaign against India. The delegate of Pakistan has voiced Pakistan’s frustration due to its failure in its malicious propaganda against India,” the Indian diplomat said.
Thulasidass said the pluralistic democracy of India is mature enough to address any issues including those instigated from outside.

“India is a secular State and safeguarding the rights of minorities forms an essential core of our polity. What minorities receive in Pakistan are blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, discrimination, denial of basic rights and freedoms, enforced disappearances and killings,” he said.
Noting that the extent of religious discrimination is reflected in the loss of life, liberty and property on the mere accusations of blasphemy laws, the Indian diplomat said that Pakistan today stands out as the country having more cases of blasphemy than the rest of the world put together in the past few years.
[ad_2]
#World #lessons #democracy #human #rights #Pakistan #India #UNHRC
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 23, 2023
As H3N2 hits the news in India, how dangerous is it?

[ad_1]
The H3N2 influenza epidemic is a major concern in India, as it has the potential to cause severe illness and even death in some cases. The H3N2 strain of the influenza virus is one of the most common causes of seasonal flu worldwide, and it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections.
Symptoms
The symptoms of H3N2 influenza are similar to those of other strains of the flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and headaches. In some cases, individuals may also experience vomiting and diarrhoea. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, especially if you are at higher risk of complications from the flu, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
How to beat it?
The best way to prevent the spread of H3N2 influenza is by getting vaccinated. The flu vaccine is widely available in India and is recommended for everyone, especially those who are at high risk of complications from the flu. The vaccine is safe and effective and can significantly reduce the likelihood of getting the flu or developing severe complications if you do get the flu.
In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several other steps that you can take to prevent the spread of the flu virus. These include practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, and staying home if you are feeling unwell.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with H3N2 influenza, it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes staying home from work or school, avoiding close contact with others, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and practicing good hygiene.
Ask your doctor
Antibiotics are not effective against the flu virus, so if you have been diagnosed with H3N2 influenza, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, which can help to reduce the severity and duration of the illness. It is important to take these medications as prescribed and to follow your doctor’s instructions closely.
How dangerous is it?
It is also important to note that H3N2 influenza can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people, including the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. If you or a loved one are in one of these groups, it is especially important to take steps to prevent the spread of the virus and to seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of the flu.
In conclusion, the H3N2 influenza epidemic is a serious concern in India, but there are steps that individuals can take to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the virus. By getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms, you can help to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy and safe. It is important to take the flu seriously and to take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Dr. Md Fawad Ali is a renowned and experienced Consultant Physician & Diabetologist in Hyderabad. He brings with him an experience of six years and has been associated with some of the best hospitals in Hyderabad. He worked as a senior resident at the Department of Medicine, NIMS; worked as an assistant professor at the Department of Medicine, DCMS; Chief Consultant and Director of Health Front Speciality Clinics and Day Care, Tolichowki, Hyderabad.
[ad_2]
#H3N2 #hits #news #India #dangerous
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 23, 2023
Ramzan in India: Here are live updates on Moon sighting

[ad_1]
Hyderabad: Ramzan, also known as Ramadan, is a holy month for Muslims all over the world, including India. The month of Ramzan is observed by fasting and offering prayers. The date for the beginning of Ramzan in India is declared based on the sighting of the crescent.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee President Majlis-e-Ulama-e-Deccan is going to hold its monthly meeting on March 22, 2023, at 6:00 pm at Khanqah Kamil, Astana Shutaria Dabeerpura, Hyderabad, to declare the date for the beginning of Ramzan in India. This meeting is crucial as it will decide when the holy month of Ramzan will begin in the country.
Muslims asked to report crescent sighting in Hyderabad
In Hyderabad, the committee has provided phone numbers for people to inform if they sight the crescent.
Whoever sees the moon before 8 pm should inform the phone number 24603597, and after 8 o’clock on the phone numbers 24513246, 24576832, 24521088, or mobile numbers 9866112393, 9391964951, 9885151354, 900008138.
When is Ramzan starting in India?
If the crescent is sighted today, then the holy month of Ramzan in India will begin tomorrow. Otherwise, it will start on Friday.
However, in Saudi Arabia, the crescent was not sighted on Tuesday evening, and hence Ramzan will begin on Thursday in the country. The same is true for other Middle East countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Ramzan in India is marked by fasting, prayer, and charitable deeds. People are encouraged to help the needy and the poor during the holy month.
Live updates
6 pm: In New Zealand, Moon has not been sighted today. As confirmed and announced by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), the first day of Ramzan will be on Friday.

[ad_2]
#Ramzan #India #live #updates #Moon #sighting
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 22, 2023
India to cross $10 bn worth mobile exports in FY22-23, Apple leads at 50%

[ad_1]
New Delhi: Buoyed by attractive government incentives towards local manufacturing, India is all set to reach a remarkable $10 billion (over Rs 82,000 crore) worth smartphone exports in the fiscal year ending March 31, industry data showed on Wednesday.
According to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), Apple’s ‘Make in India’ smartphone now constitute 50 per cent of total exports.
Samsung is second with 40 per cent mobile exports while other smartphone players constitute 10 per cent export share.
Smartphone exports from India have doubled from a corresponding period from last fiscal year, driven by production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes.
The top five global destinations India currently exports mobile phones to are the UAE, the US, the Netherlands, the UK and Italy, according to the ICEA data.
“Efficacy and maturity of an industry is only judged with robust exports. Mobile phones policy and outreach initiatives have been relentless and the results are in front of us,” Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman of ICEA, told IANS.
“The mobile phone industry will cross $40 billion manufacturing output and 25 per cent exports at $10 billion is a stellar performance,” he added.
Reports surfaced earlier this year that Tim Cook-led Apple will quickly shift some of its China manufacturing to India and Vietnam in the next 2-3 years.

India is likely to produce 45-50 per cent of Apple’s iPhones by 2027, at par with China, where 80-85 per cent of iPhones were produced in 2022.
According to estimates by DigiTimes research analysts, India and Vietnam are to become the biggest beneficiaries of smartphone supply chain migration out of China.
India accounted for 10-15 per cent of iPhones’ overall production capacity at the end of 2022.
Apple became the first smartphone player in India to have exported $1 billion worth iPhones in the month of December. It currently manufactures iPhones 12, 13, 14 and 14 Plus in the country.
According to Mohindroo, the country is now moving in a different direction, “which is largely export-focused and led by the government’s performance-linked scheme (PLI) push”.
The government is also working to strengthen the electronic manufacturing ecosystem beyond mobiles to boost its global share in hearables and wearables, IT hardware and electronic components etc.
[ad_2]
#India #cross #worth #mobile #exports #FY2223 #Apple #leads
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 22, 2023
Ramzan in India: Moon sighting committee to meet today in Hyderabad

[ad_1]
Hyderabad: Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee President Majlis-e-Ulama-e-Deccan will hold its monthly meeting on March 22, 2023, at 6:00 pm at Khanqah Kamil, Astana Shutaria Dabeerpura, Hyderabad to declare the date for the beginning of Ramzan in India. The meeting will be held under the supervision of Hazrat Maulana Syed Mohammad Qabool Pasha Quadri Al-Shatari, Secretary, Majlis-e-Ulama-e-Deccan.
Members of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee have been requested to participate. Apart from it, whoever sees the moon before 8 pm should inform the phone number 24603597 and after 8 o’clock on the phone numbers 24513246, 24576832, 24521088 or mobile numbers 9866112393, 9391964951, 9885151354, 900008138. The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has made reasonable arrangements for ruet to facilitate the acquisition of information.
Ramzan in India
The date for the beginning of Ramzan in India will be decided based on the sighting of the crescent. If it is sighted today, then the holy month in India will begin tomorrow else, it will start on Friday.
Meanwhile, many business establishments and restaurants in Hyderabad and other cities in India completed their preparation for Ramzan.
During the month, most of the business establishments remain open beyond their normal hours. All most all restaurants in Hyderabad are gearing up special menus for ‘Sehri’ and haleem.
Ramzan in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, Ramzan will begin on Thursday as the crescent was not sighted on Tuesday evening.
In other middle east countries including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ramzan will begin on Thursday.
The date for the beginning of the fasting month is determined by both lunar calculations and the sighting of the new moon. Muslims follow a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. The sighting of a crescent heralds the beginning of Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

Ramzan is observed by more than 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. Fasting during the holy month is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all healthy Muslims. However, young children, sick people, travellers and women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or menstruating are exempt.
Hyderabad is one of the major cities where Ruet-e-Hilal committee organises a meeting of its members to determine and announce the sighting of the moon.
[ad_2]
#Ramzan #India #Moon #sighting #committee #meet #today #Hyderabad
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 22, 2023
Telangana man dies at Saudi Airport hour before boarding flight to India

[ad_1]
In a tragic incident that occurred at the Saudi airport, Mohammed Chand Pasha, a man from Telangana, died of a heart attack just an hour before his scheduled flight to India. Pasha, who was in his 50s, was a native of Kondapur village, Kodimyal Mandal in Jagtial, Telangana, and had gone to Saudi Arabia to work in the city of Abha.
According to a report published in TOI, the news of Pasha’s death came to light on March 20, almost three weeks after he passed away on March 2.
As per the details of the incident, the man was rushed to a hospital soon after he suffered heart attack. Unfortunately, doctors declared him dead upon arrival.
Subscribe us on
[ad_2]
#Telangana #man #dies #Saudi #Airport #hour #boarding #flight #India
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 22, 2023
Congress launches poster of Young India ke Bol’ programme

[ad_1]
Kolkata: The Congress on Tuesday launched the poster of the Young India ke Bol’ programme, through which the youth wing of the grand old party will select its spokespersons for the district, state and national levels.
Young India Ke Bol’ West Bengal in-charge Shams Shahnawaz said the programme will provide a political platform to the youths of the country, and they would be able to present their ideas in a democratic manner.
“At a time when the BJP is trying to gag dissent, Youth Congress will give microphones to lakhs of youths. The programme will make our leader Rahul Gandhi’s dream of maximising people’s participation in democracy a reality,” Shahnawaz said in a release.
Online applications for the programme will begin on April 23 and the finale will be held in Delhi in June.
Subscribe us on
[ad_2]
#Congress #launches #poster #Young #India #Bol #programme
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 22, 2023
Strong tremors jolt Delhi, parts of north India

[ad_1]
New Delhi: Strong tremors jolted parts of north India, including Delhi-NCR, on Tuesday night as an earthquake of magnitude 6.6 struck the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan.
Panic-stricken people rushed out of buildings as the earthquake struck around 10.20 pm and was also felt in Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan.
There was no immediate report of any loss of life or property.
According to an automated report generated by the National Centre for Seismology, the 6.6 magnitude quake struck 133 km southeast of Fayzabad in Afghanistan.
Subscribe us on
[ad_2]
#Strong #tremors #jolt #Delhi #parts #north #India
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 21, 2023
Post-Partition India a ‘Hindu Rashtra’, says BJP general secretary Vijayvargiya

[ad_1]
Indore: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya on Tuesday said post-independence and Partition in 1947, whatever was left of India constituted a “Hindu Rashtra”.
Asked about the demand from a section of religious leaders to declare India a Hindu Rashtra, Vijayvargiya told reporters in Indore, “When India was divided, it was on this issue (on religious lines). After Partition, Pakistan was formed and the remaining country is a Hindu nation.”
The former state cabinet minister claimed a Muslim friend of his living in Bhopal recites the Hanuman Chalisa every day and also visits a Shiva temple.
“I asked my Muslim friend how he was inspired to worship Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva. My friend replied that when he read the history of his family, he came to know that his ancestors were Rajputs of Rajasthan and some of his relatives are still Rajputs who live in Rajasthan and also in Uttar Pradesh,” Vijayvargiya said without revealing the man’s identity.
The BJP leader said like his Muslim friend, there are many people in the country who feel their ancestors once recited the Hanuman Chalisa.
The veteran politician said he was considering forming a “Hanuman Chalisa Club” to wean youths away from drugs.
Asked about the recent activities of separatist forces in Punjab, Vijayvargiya said the Centre and the state government were working together to deal with the problem and their efforts will yield good results.
Subscribe us on

[ad_2]
#PostPartition #India #Hindu #Rashtra #BJP #general #secretary #Vijayvargiya
( With inputs from www.siasat.com )

March 21, 2023