India

Indian court urged to settle issues that led to FIFA ban

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 16, 2022

India’s top court is expected to take up a government plea to settle issues that led to the national soccer federation’s suspension by FIFA and the possible loss of its hosting rights for the Under-17 Women’s World Cup in October.

Nitish Kumar led-Mahagatbandhan government to expand Cabinet Tuesday

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 16, 2022

The Bihar Cabinet expansion will take place on Tuesday and chances are high that alliance partner Rashtriya Janata Dal is likely to get a large number of seats. Janata Dal (United) and Congress are also expected to get a fair share of…

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar resigns, breaks alliance with BJP

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 9, 2022

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar resigned on Tuesday breaking his alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Digital Promoting peace and Further Strengthening India- Pakistan Friendship

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 31, 2022

A Facebook page is bridging the divide between people from Pakistan and India, South Asian nuclear-armed nations which have been to war three times since their independence in 1947.

India set for 5G spectrum auction, bids for Rs 1.49 trillion received

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 28, 2022

The auction for the 5G telecom spectrum has garnered bids worth Rs 1,49,454 crore at the end of the second day and the bids for the much-awaited spectrum sale are extended for the third day.

Droupadi Murmu assumes office of President of India

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 25, 2022

Newly sworn-in Droupadi Murmu on Monday assumed the office of the President of India at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Pakistan rejects baseless comments by Indian defence minister

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 25, 2022

Pakistan has completely rejected and strongly condemned the unwarranted and totally unacceptable comments made by the Indian defence minister at a recent event in Jammu.

India: $79 Billion Of Unhedged Debt Is Next Pain Point For Rupee

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 21, 2022

Indian companies are rushing to hedge their overseas dollar debt against further declines in the rupee, a process that threatens to cascade into additional losses for the battered local currency.

What Sonia Gandhi Requested For Enforcement Directorate Questioning

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 21, 2022

Sonia Gandhi, 75, will be allowed to rest if she gets tired during her questioning, sources say. The Congress president has reportedly made some requests to the Enforcement Directorate.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam’s message for Kohli wins hearts

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 15, 2022

Babar's support for Kohli came after current Indian captain Rohit Sharma threw his weight behind his predecessor.

Outnumbered? Uddhav Thackeray’s Summer Shock

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 23, 2022

Eknath Shinde, leading a revolt against Uddhav Thackeray, has claimed the backing of 40 MLAs but this has been challenged by party leader Sanjay Raut, who said at least half of them were "in touch" to come back.

‘points directions to solve global challenges’ at BRICS Business Forum

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 22, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for joint efforts to seek and safeguard peace as he said "the Ukraine crisis has again sounded the alarm for humanity," at a keynote speech in virtual format at the opening ceremony of the…

China ‘fully ready’ for 14th BRICS Summit: vice foreign minister

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 22, 2022

China is fully prepared for the 14th BRICS Summit, Ma Zhaoxu, vice foreign minister and coordinator for China's BRICS Affairs, said on Tuesday.

China: BRICS to take leadership role in ending global hunger, poverty

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 21, 2022

BRICS countries Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, accounting for more than 40 percent of the world's population and 20 percent of global GDP and producing more than one-third of global cereal production

Islamists storm India-backed yoga event in Maldives

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 21, 2022

Islamic extremists stormed an India-backed public yoga session in the Maldives on Tuesday, with police in the South Asian tourist paradise firing tear gas to clear the mob.

Bangladeshi Foreign Minister calls on Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 20, 2022

Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen met with Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu in New Delhi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh

‘Agnipath’: Concessions Planned, Not Fallout Of Protests, Says Centre

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2022

A defence tri-service briefing today looked to clear doubts about the new military recruitment scheme 'Agnipath' and explained why the country needs this policy for mass entry to the armed forces.

India’s Russian coal buying spikes as traders offer steep discounts

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2022

India’s purchases of Russian coal have spiked in recent weeks despite global sanctions on Moscow, as traders offer discounts of up to 30 per cent, according to two trade sources and data reviewed by Reuters.

Xi Jinping to host BRICS Summit; China devt approach anticipated

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2022

BRICS Summit also provides a platform for the world to hear a wider range of nations calling for a fair, just and inclusive world governance system, not just the voice of small cliques of the US which mistakenly believe they represent the…

US condemns remarks on Prophet by suspended BJP leaders

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2022

United States on Thursday condemned remarks by Indian ruling party officials about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that have sparked an uproar in Muslim countries.

Indians ready to return to China as embassy updates visa policy

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2022

Indian nationals and their accompanying family members are preparing to return to China for work after the Chinese Embassy in India optimized visas policies for those who wish to travel to China to resume work.

“To Indian Muslims on behalf of majority Hindus — you’re loved”

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 16, 2022

Bollywood composer Vishal Dadlani today took to Twitter to record his apology to and solidarity with Indian Muslims over the row surrounding former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma's comments on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

“Agnipath”: Why is India’s armed forces reform triggering protests?

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 16, 2022

The Indian government on June 14, 2022, announced its biggest reform to the recruitment system for its armed forces that is aimed at giving the nearly 1.2 million strong force a more youthful and tech-savvy profile.

Mamata Banerjee’s 2 Names For President After Opposition Meet

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 16, 2022

Sharad Pawar on Wednesday refused an offer to run for President, telling an opposition meeting that he "still has an active political innings to play". But the meeting turned chaotic over a last-minute resolution against Prime Minister…

Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee to provide insurance to devotees

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 15, 2022

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) on Wednesday decided to provide insurance of one lakh rupees to the devotees in case of any kind of accident that happens with them on the temple premises of Chardham located in Uttarakhand.

5G soon in India, to be 10 times faster than 4G

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 15, 2022

5G soon in India, to be 10 times faster than 4G. With the Union Cabinet approving the proposal to conduct a spectrum auction, India is soon to get a strong ecosystem for the launch of 5G services which will likely to about 10 times faster…

At least 8,000 super rich Indians are expected to migrate out of the country this year

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 15, 2022

As many as 8,000 high net worth individuals are expected to migrate out of India in 2022, a new study has estimated.

IFRC, C40 Cities urge cities, residents to prepare for more deadly heatwaves

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 14, 2022

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFCR) is mobilizing branches and partners in more than 50 cities around the world Tuesday to raise awareness about ways to reduce the severe effects of extreme heat.

India, China growing markets for shunned Russian oil

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 13, 2022

India and other Asian nations are becoming an increasingly vital source of oil revenues for Moscow despite strong pressure from the U.S. not to increase their purchases, as the European Union and other allies cut off energy imports from…

Indian police file case against ruling party official after anti-Muslim remarks

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 9, 2022

India's ruling party has been named by police in a case for inciting people after her insulting remarks against Prophet Muhammad spurred a string of condemnations from the oil-rich Gulf states and other Muslim-majority nations.

None did as much for India’s northeast as Bangladesh: Ex-NSG chief

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2022

The former director-general of India's elite National Security Guard (NSG) has commended Bangladesh's "amazing" cooperation in helping India contain insurgency issues in the country's north-eastern states.

India, Vietnam sign ‘Joint Vision Statement’ for defence partnership 2030

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2022

India and Vietnam on Wednesday signed a "Joint Vision Statement" for Defence Partnership towards the year 2030 to enhance the scope and scale of defence cooperation between the countries.

Why #BycottQatarAirways Trended On Twitter

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2022

Qatar was among those who demanded an apology and told India envoy Deepak Mittal that such remarks may lead to "prejudice and marginalisation, which will create a cycle of violence and hate".

10 Points: 15 Nations Condemn Remarks On Prophet As Blowback Against India Spreads

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2022

The diplomatic outrage over the remarks on Prophet Muhammad by BJP leaders Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal continued even as the government sought to defuse the anger in various countries, asserting that it respects all religions.

Nepal starts exporting surplus energy to India

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2022

In what would boost cross-border energy partnership, Nepal has started selling electricity to India through its power exchange market since last week.

Prophet Muhammad remarks embroil India in row with Gulf states

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 6, 2022

The Indian government has become embroiled in a diplomatic row with Gulf states after two ruling party spokespeople were accused of making Islamophobic and derogatory comments insulting the prophet Muhammad.

Tourist destinations gear up for summer without Russian visitors

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 1, 2022

European tourist destinations are set for a summer season largely without Russian visitors amid sanctions over the war on Ukraine and actions taken by Moscow.

Monkeypox: Centre Asks States to Send Suspected Samples for Testing, Monitor Contacts for 21 Days

THE ASIA LIVE May 31, 2022

The Union Health Ministry on Tuesday issued guidelines to states and union territories on the management of the Monkeypox disease. The ministry said that clinical specimens from suspected patients should be sent to NIV, Pune’s apex…

A not quite fine balance

THE ASIA LIVE May 20, 2022

Russia’s brutal invasion into Ukraine, which has led to the death and displacement of millions, has not come without a cost. As Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine border towns and Western powers began to apply economic sanctions in the hopes…

Sexual liberties and issues and problems of sex workers

THE ASIA LIVE May 17, 2022

We under the banner of Indians For sexual liberties are celebrating sexual freedom day 21st April . And having a press conference regarding sexual liberties and issues and problems of sex workers .

Shanghai Cooperation Organization in 2022: Indo-Uzbek Synergy for Progress

THE ASIA LIVE May 14, 2022

Tillotoma Foundation, in association with the Embassy of Uzbekistan in India, organized the Track 2 Diplomatic Conclave titled "Shanghai Cooperation Organization in 2022: Indo-Uzbek Synergy for Progress"

Indian PM Modi visiting Nepal for fifth time

THE ASIA LIVE May 12, 2022

Narendra Modi is arriving on an official visit to Nepal on Monday, May 16. He is visiting at the invitation of Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.

India capitalizes on Russian oil imports previously destined for Europe

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 21, 2022

Total Urals arrivals in northwest European and Baltic ports drop by around 460,000 barrels per day, around 620,000 in March and down to 370,000 in April

India to boost arms output, fearing shortfall from Russia

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 7, 2022

India on Thursday said it would ramp up its production of military equipment, including helicopters, tank engines, missiles and airborne

Australia and India thank Quad for new free trade deal

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 6, 2022

India and Australia’s trade ministers say a shared security partnership with the United States and Japan has helped them strike a trade deal

India-Japan focussed on defence ties

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 25, 2022

Tillotoma Foundation held a meeting with Captain Hiroshi Tachibana, Naval Attaché, Embassy of Japan in India, at the New Delhi Office,

Why India’s renewable push will be hard

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 25, 2022

Plans to build a sprawling solar park on land cultivated for generations by indigenous farmers in India’s Himalayan foothills erupted

“Bhagwant Mann Set Targets For Every Minister And If…”: Arvind Kejriwal

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 20, 2022

New Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal said, has already "removed the security of old ministers and gave security to the public".

Half-Day For Assam Government Employees To Watch “The Kashmir Files”

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 16, 2022

state government employees can avail a half-day leave to watch the recently released movie "The Kashmir Files"

Indian court upholds ban on hijab in class

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 15, 2022

NEW DELHI An Indian court on Tuesday upheld a ban on hijab in class in the southern state of Karanataka stating that wearing the headscarf was not an essential religious practice in Islam. The ruling came following petitions filed in…

Sri Lanka bowled out for 109, trail India by 143 runs

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 13, 2022

Sri Lanka were bowled out for 109 in the first innings on day two of the day-night test in Bengaluru on Sunday, trailing India by 143 runs.

“We’ve 700 MLAs…”: Congress Leader After Mamata Banerjee’s Criticism

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 13, 2022

Congress presence across India, he said that the Congress has 20 per cent of the Opposition's total vote share and asked the TMC

Congress Elections May Be Advanced At Meet Today After Poll Disaster

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 13, 2022

Congress's top decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee or CWC, will meet at 4 pm today, three days after a huge defeat

Pakistan warns arch-rival India over mystery flying object

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 11, 2022

Pakistan on Friday warned New Delhi of "unpleasant consequences" over what it said was an Indian-originated, but unidentified high-altitude

India’s Modi urges direct negotiations between Putin and Zelenskiy

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 8, 2022

Narendra Modi on Monday urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold direct talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy

Modi’s BJP set to retain India’s most populous state after vote – opinion polls

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 7, 2022

Narendra Modi's party is expected to retain control of India's most populous state after a month-long voting process ended

South Asia returns to normal as COVID cases decline

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 4, 2022

Traffic is jamming the roads. Migrant workers have returned to the cities. And young people are back at schools and universities

India to condemn old friend Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 2, 2022

India is yet to criticise long-standing arms supplier Russia publicly, instead urging both sides to cease hostilities, causing frustration among its other allies including the United States.

iQoo 9 Pro, iQoo 9, iQoo 9 SE price in India, launch offers

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 23, 2022

iQoo 9 Pro price begins at Rs. 64,990, while the iQoo 9 carries a starting price of Rs. 42,990 and the iQoo 9 SE starts at Rs. 33,990.

Samsung Galaxy S22 Series Goes on Pre-Booking in India: Check Offers

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 22, 2022

Samsung Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra customers get an upgrade bonus of up to Rs. 8,000 while pre-booking the phones.

Motorola Edge 30 Pro Price in India, Cheapest Smartphone

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 22, 2022

Motorola Edge 30 Pro have surfaced online. The smartphone is said to be a rebranded version of the Moto Edge X30 that was launched

20 injured in India riots after Hindu activist killed

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 22, 2022

20 people were injured in the unrest yesterday, after the killing a day earlier of the member of the Hindu nationalist group Bajrang Dal in Shivamogga, Karnataka state.

BJP problem: effects of cattle slaughter ban, clearly seen on the ground

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 22, 2022

The effects of cattle slaughter ban – its strict enforcement by the Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government – are clearly seen on the ground.

Humanity, truth cannot be divided on basis of gender or caste: President Kovind

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 20, 2022

He also said though various religious traditions and practises are prevalent in different parts of India, there is only one belief and that is to work for the welfare of all, considering the entire humanity as one family.

India, UAE are natural partners, for rules-based fair trade: Piyush Goyal

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 19, 2022

s India celebrates 75 years of independence, and UAE celebrates the 50th anniversary of its foundation, it is an appropriate time to reset our relationship

Shimla Dialogue: Dhaka eyes regional peace

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 18, 2022

Bangladesh-India Friendship Dialogue is a forum to bring together key stakeholders including think tanks and civil society from both countries to discuss issues of relevance.

Indian court orders death for 38 for deadly 2008 serial bomb blasts

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 18, 2022

38 Muslim men to death and ordered life in prison for 11 others for a series of bomb blasts in 2008 in the city of Ahmedabad

India objects to Singapore PM’s remarks about ‘criminal’ MPs

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 18, 2022

Indian media reported that Singapore's ambassador had been summoned to the foreign ministry to explain. The Indian ministry declined to comment but an official there criticised what the Singapore leader said.

‘Continuous monitoring necessary to ensure human rights of Muslims’

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 17, 2022

Experts at OIC meet on human rights urge actionable steps, as they discuss issues and situation of Muslims in Myanmar, India

Woman detained for stabbing cab driver

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 16, 2022

NEW DELHI A woman was detained by the Gurugram Police on Tuesday for allegedly stabbing a cab driver. According to the police, the woman, who was wearing a burqa, boarded the cab at around 11 am today from Gurugram's Cyber City area.…

Free Fire banned in India

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 16, 2022

Garena Free Fire, the popular battle royale game, was banned in India on February 14 along with 53 other apps by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The app was already missing from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store a day before news…

Disco-King Bappi Lahiri passes away at 69

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 16, 2022

MUMBAI Singer-composer Bappi Lahiri passed away on Tuesday, February 15, at a Mumbai hospital, informed a doctor on Wednesday. He was 69. He passed away around 11.45 pm on Tuesday. The veteran singer had tested positive for Covid-19…

Poco F3 GT successor to launch in India in first half of 2022

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 14, 2022

Poco will launch the successor to Poco F3 GT in the first half of 2022. The Poco F3 GT successor will not cost above Rs 50,000 but maybe more than the F3 GT. Poco will refresh the entire existing lineup of its smartphones.…

Indian Govt bans 54 Chinese apps that pose threat to national security: Sources

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 14, 2022

NEW DELHI According to top sources in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Centre has banned 54 Chinese apps that "pose a threat to India's security". Since June 2020, the government has banned around…

What are India’s new Guidelines on International travelers?

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 10, 2022

NEW DELHI The Omicron variant-driven third wave subsiding in the country, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Thursday revised guidelines for international travellers, allowing “quarantine-free” entry for travellers from 82…

Indian police files case against a black marlin fish after it attacks and kills fisherman

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 10, 2022

NEW DELHI The Parawada police from the district of Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, India have filed a case against a black marlin fish after it attacked a fisherman to death last week. According to News18, the police were informed of…

What is at stake for PM Modi in India’s bellwether state

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 9, 2022

A month-long election in India’s most populous state will test the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ruling Bharatiya Janata Party amid rising unemployment, inflation and the third wave of COVID-19 infections. Voters in…

India signs deals to export 4.6 million T sugar in 2021/22, says trade body

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 8, 2022

MUMBAI Indian mills have signed contracts to export 4.6 million tonnes of sugar in the 2021/22 marketing year without government subsidies, a leading trade body said on Monday. The exports would allow the world's second-biggest sugar…

Sri Lanka signs $500 million credit line for fuel with India

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2022

COLOMBO Sri Lanka signed a $500 million credit line with India to import fuel on Wednesday, officials said, as the island nation seeks to stave off rolling power cuts amid a foreign exchange crisis that has hampered purchases of diesel…

In heated meeting, India seeks tougher action from U.S. tech giants on fake news

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2022

NEW DELHI Indian officials have held heated discussions with Google, Twitter and Facebook for not proactively removing what they described as fake news on their platforms, sources told, the government's latest altercation with Big Tech.…

India to grant additional $2.6 billion for solar manufacturing

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2022

CHENNAI India will allocate an additional 195 billion rupees ($2.62 billion) to boost investment in solar equipment manufacturing, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said. "Production Linked Incentive for manufacture of…

India to introduce new battery swapping policy in EV push

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 1, 2022

NEW DELHI India will introduce a new policy for battery swapping to boost sales of electric vehicles (EVs), its finance minister said on Tuesday, amid a broader push by the government to meet its decarbonisation goals. Prime Minister…

Jobless Indian youngsters accuse government of ‘playing with our lives’

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 31, 2022

PATNA, India Niranjan Kumar, the eldest son of a small farmer in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, was one of 12.5 million youngsters who applied for 35,000 jobs when the railways department started recruitment examinations more than a…

Promoting Sustainable Food Consumption and the Shift to Healthy Diets in Asia through Farm to Fork…

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 31, 2022

NEW DELHI The SWITCH-Asia Regional Policy Advocacy Component (RPAC) in partnership with the TERI School of Advanced Studies, UNEP Asia Pacific and Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok organized a webinar ‘Regional Dialogue: Promoting…

Christians observe Martyrs’ Day with fasting, prayers

jose kalathil Jan 31, 2022

NEW DELHI Christians in India cutting across all denominations today observed Martyrs' Day – the anniversary of the assassination of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi — with nationwide fasting and prayers for the unity and progress of…

launched two Diploma courses on major European languages French and German

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 31, 2022

NEW DELHI Tillotoma Foundation, a global academic organisation, has recently launched two interesting Diploma courses on major European languages French and German for students and enthusiasts. The two courses are Diploma Course in…

Environmentally friendly homestay in Indian Himalayan state catching visitors’ eyes

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 26, 2022

NEW DELHI When Indian architect couple Namrata Kandwal and Gaurav Dixit decided to turn their research on hemp into practice by constructing a homestay in the hills, they were unsure about the response it would garner. Two months down…

Leopard infection fuels fears of spillover

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 26, 2022

NEW DELHI A male leopard cub found dead in the wild in mid-October has been detected with the novel coronavirus in India, marking the first reported incidence of the virus in a free-ranging wild feline species. Researchers at the…

In Kashmir, India batters press freedom and journalists

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 23, 2022

SRINAGAR, India For five years, Sajad Gul wrote about conflict wracking his homeland, a disputed Himalayan territory where a violent armed rebellion and India’s brutal counterinsurgency have raged for over three decades. That changed…

Install Netaji’s hologram statue at India Gate

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 23, 2022

NEW DELHI In a first, India will begin the Republic Day celebrations from January 23, Sunday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi installing a hologram statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at India Gate on the leader's 125th birth…

ASEAN and India to the Myanmar issue discussed

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 19, 2022

NEW DELHI Tillotoma Foundation, a global think tank, organised the International Seminar on the Present Scenario in Myanmar on 15th January, 2022 with senior Indian diplomats and noted experts. Last year, soon after the military coup…

Childhood memory on BR Ambedkar

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 7, 2022

One day in October 1956, it was announced over the radio that Babasaheb BR Ambedkar, eminent jurist and the chief architect of the Constitution of the Republic of India, was going to visit Nepal. Poorna Bhadra Adiga Pashupatinath is a…

The Indian State may not want to learn from Nepal

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 6, 2022

Shekhar Pathak Geography changes over millions of years but territorial supremacy can change in centuries or decades. Like the mighty but fragile Himalayas, the mountains in Kali/Mahakali region have been standing, rising and eroding for…

2021 ends as “Most Violent year” for Christians in India

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 2, 2022

NEW DELHI The National slogan of “Sab Ka Saath, Sab Ka Vikas” has proved to be a hollow, rhetorical bell for the Christian Minority population of India. The steady year-on-year increase in violence against the peace-loving community…

Diploma courses In Iranology

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 2, 2022

NEW DELHI Tillotoma Foundation and the Iran Culture House, New Delhi are presenting two interesting Diploma courses on Iran for students and enthusiasts. The two courses are Diploma Course on Persian Language and Diploma Course on…

Military Dimension – A Military History of INA and Netaji

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 23, 2021

NEW DELHI A Book Discussion & Seminar on Netaji and the Indian National Army, was organized on 21st December, 2021 at New Delhi, India. The Event was principally organised by Ms Kamakshi Wason, Vice President, Tillotoma…

Foreign ministers of 5 Central Asian countries call on Narendra Modi

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 21, 2021

NEW DELHI Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance that India attaches to its long-standing relations with the Central Asian countries as part of its "extended neighbourhood". The prime minister said this when…

Indian man beaten to death inside historic Sikh temple

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 19, 2021

NEW DELHI A man was beaten to death in the northern Indian city of Amritsar after he allegedly attempted to commit a sacrilegious act inside the historic Golden Temple, one of Sikhs’ most revered shrines. The incident occurred during…

India in touch with Pakistan to send wheat, medicines to Afghanistan

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 16, 2021

NEW DELHI India is in touch with authorities in Pakistan to send more humanitarian assistance, including wheat and life-saving medicines to Afghanistan, the External Affairs Ministry said on Thursday. "We'll continue to provide…

Asian markets close day in positive territory

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 16, 2021

Following positive figures from Asian countries, such as Chinese industrial production and Japan’s additional budget developments, Asian stock markets closed Thursday positive. The Asia Dow, which includes blue-chip companies in the…

Bangladesh PM calls on President Kovind, both review progress in bilateral ties

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 15, 2021

DHAKA Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday called on President Ram Nath Kovind, who is on a three-day State visit to the country, and both sides reviewed progress in the multifaceted and comprehensive bilateral ties.…

CDS Rawat was on-board crashed chopper, confirms IAF; orders inquiry

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 8, 2021

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) India The Indian Air Force on Wednesday confirmed that Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat was on- board an IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter that met with an accident earlier today near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. The IAF has…

Modi, Putin to meet tomorrow with spotlight on India-Russia special, privileged strategic…

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 5, 2021

NEW DELHI As India prepares to host Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India-Russia summit, New Delhi's time-tested and all-weather partnership with Moscow is back in the limelight. This will be the first in-person…

UN says it is ‘deeply concerned’ by India’s arrest of Kashmiri rights defender

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 2, 2021

Indian authorities have arrested Khurram Parvez, a key human rights defender in Jammu and Kashmir, the troubled Himalayan territory where a crackdown on dissidents has resulted in a spike in rights violations and a surge in violence.…

India’s balancing act between Russia, US

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 2, 2021

Iftikhar Gilani Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi on Dec. 6, which also marks the arrival of the first batch of the S-400 Triumf long-range air defense system, will test India’s diplomatic skills in balancing ties…

Drug trafficking in opiates, meth from Afghanistan poses serious threat

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 27, 2021

NEW DELHI Underlining the serious threat posed by drug trafficking from Afghanistan, the foreign ministers of Russia, India and China (RIC) have noted concerns regarding the dramatic change in the situation in the troubled country and…

Russia, India, China note concerns over Afghanistan situation, call for immediate, unhindered…

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 26, 2021

NEW DELHI Russia, India and China on Friday noted concerns regarding the dramatic change in the situation in Afghanistan and reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that the territory of Afghanistan should not be used to threaten or attack…

A silent killer is choking India’s capital

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 24, 2021

NEW DELHI Gulpreet Singh begs for food from a dirty hemp mat spread on the sidewalk outside Delhi's South Campus metro station. Like millions of Indians who survive on handouts or daily wages, the 84-year-old says he has no choice but…

India’s Modi to repeal controversial farm laws

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 19, 2021

NEW DELHI Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday (Nov 19) he had decided to repeal three controversial farm laws against which farmers have protested for more than a year. "Today I have come to tell you, the whole country,…

Delhi air quality ‘very poor’ category, AQI at 332

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 19, 2021

New Delhi Delhi's air quality continues to remain in the 'very poor' category for the sixth consecutive day on Friday, according to the System of Air Quality & Weather Forecasting & Research (SAFAR). However, the overall Air…

Facebook lacking India-specific hate speech norms is worrying

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 18, 2021

Facebook India public policy director Shivnath Thukral on Thursday appeared before the Delhi Assembly's Peace and Harmony Committee in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots and told the committee members that Facebook doesn't have explicit…

Over 62.82 cr samples tested for COVID-19 in India

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 18, 2021

New Delhi India's testing capacity has been ramped up extensively and it has conducted 62,82,48,841 COVID-19 tests so far, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Thursday. Of the total testing done so far…

Maldives condemns attempts to spread false information about India

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 17, 2021

Maldives on Wednesday condemned attempts to spread false information through media and across social media platforms, using the so-called "India Out" slogan. The Government said that it believes that false allegations regarding ties with…

India opens borders to vaccinated tourists

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 16, 2021

New Delhi India opened its borders to fully vaccinated foreign tourists entering the country on commercial flights for the first time in nearly two years on Monday. Tourists entering the country must be fully vaccinated, test negative…

schools from india and taiwan come together to create awareness about un sdgs

jose kalathil Nov 11, 2021

NEW DELHI Tagore International School in New Delhi under its students-led 'Saksham' project organised a programme online with Taibei International Bilingual School in Taipei to create awareness about the United Nations sustainable…

Facebook failing to contain hate speech in India

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 25, 2021

NEW YORK Facebook was well aware that hate speech used to be spreading on its site in India which should exacerbate ethnic violence, and did not set up resources to curb the phenomenon, US media reported, citing internal documents.…

T20 World Cup: India 151/7 (20), Pakistan 152/0 (17.5)

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 25, 2021

DUBAI Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan smashed unbeaten half-centuries as Pakistan beaten India by 10 wickets to register their first win over their arch-rivals in a T20 World Cup on Sunday. Chasing 152 for victory, Babar (68)…

Pakistan look to end India losing streak in T20 World Cup

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 24, 2021

Dubai India is between Pakistan in all of their 12 matches at the T20 and 50-over World Cups. Pakistan, however, go into the contest with 10 wins in a row in the United Arab Emirates, their domestic away from domestic for most of the…

Sri Lankan PM congratulates PM Modi after India crosses 100cr COVID-19 vaccination mark

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 21, 2021

Colombo Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi after India's cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage crossed 100 crore doses. "Congratulations to PM @narendramodi, the…

Heavy rains trigger floods in northern India, killing 22

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 19, 2021

LUCKNOW, India At least 22 people have died and others are missing in floods triggered by heavy rains in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, officials said Tuesday. The Indian Meteorological Department predicted that heavy to…

Lucknow Police warns of strict action against those who would participate in ‘Rail Roko…

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 18, 2021

Lucknow, India Lucknow Police have threatened to take strict action against those who would participate in the 'Rail Roko Andolan' called by farmer unions on Monday. The police said those who try to disrupt normalcy will be booked…

Heavy rains, floods leave 8 dead, 12 missing in south India

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 17, 2021

NEW DELHI At least eight people have died and a dozen are feared missing after a day of torrential rains in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Rescue operations were underway on Sunday after heavy rains lashed the state the day…

Former PM Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 13, 2021

NEW DELHI Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has been admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. The eighty-nine year Congress leader had complained of weakness and is stable and under the observation of doctors,…

India, China discuss military standoff resolution during 13th round

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 10, 2021

NEW DELHI The 13th round of Corps Commander level talks between India and China have concluded after more than eight hours of discussion between both sides, Army sources informed. The discussion had begun in the Moldo on the Chinese…

India, China to address military stand-off, hold 13th round of talks tomorrow

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 9, 2021

NEW DELHI India and China are set to hold on October 10, the 13th round of talks to address the ongoing military stand-off between the two Asian countries, according to Army sources. The sources also divulged that the talks will be…

India records 19,740 new Covid-19 cases, 248 deaths

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 9, 2021

NEW DELHI India registered 19,740 new covid cases in the last 24 hours, 7.1 per cent lower than yesterday, bringing the whole caseload to 3,39,35,309. A total of 248 deaths have been reported in the during the same time, growing the…

Indian, Chinese patrols face-to-face in Arunachal Pradesh

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 8, 2021

NEW DELHI In the next round of Corps Commander degree talks between India and China, which are supposed to take region in eastern Ladakh, there used to be a minor altercation between Indian and Chinese troops in the eastern region of the…

India, Nepal hold 5th Joint Working Group meeting on cross border railway links

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 8, 2021

NEW DELHI India and Nepal held the 5th Joint Working Group (JWG) and the seventh Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings from 6-7 October 2021 in New Delhi, to review the implementation of ongoing cross-border railway links and overall…

International traveler reopen in India 15 October

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 8, 2021

DELHI India will re-open for travelers from October 15 after being closed for more than a yr due to the coronavirus pandemic, the authorities said yesterday. The country had suspended all visas for foreigners in March 2020 when the…

Vivo X70 Pro+, Y73, Y33s, and V21 smartphones discounts

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 6, 2021

Vivo has announced new offers and offers on a vary of Vivo smartphones throughout the ongoing festival sales. The offers will bring cashback, financing options, and bank offers to customers of choose Vivo smartphones during the sale thru…

Rahul en route Lakhimpur after row at Lucknow airport

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 6, 2021

Lucknow, India Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday was allowed to depart the Lucknow airport after a brief tussle with the airport authorities who initially stopped him and two other CMs en route to Lakhimpur from leaving the…

Pilot demands probe by SC judge in Lakhimpur violence

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 5, 2021

Jaipur, India Rajasthan’s former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday demanded a probe into violence in Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur Kheri by a sitting judge of the Supreme court. “The inquiry needs to be conducted through a…

Drugs seizure case has emerge as like novels: NCB

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 5, 2021

Mumbai, India The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), probing the seizure of banned drugs from a cruise ship off the Mumbai coast, on Tuesday told a court right here that the matter has become like the novels of Agatha Christie and Sherlock…

Arrested without notice or order: Priyanka Gandhi

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 5, 2021

NEW DELHI Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi, who was arrested while on her way to Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur Kheri, on Tuesday stated she used to be detained from an area that was not under prohibitory orders and has so a way not…

9 are dead after farmers protest in India

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 4, 2021

NEW DELHI Indian authorities suspended internet services and barred political leaders from getting into a northern city Monday to calm tensions after 9 people have been killed in a deadly escalation of a yearlong demonstration in…

India, US reaffirm commitment to free, open Indo-Pacific

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 3, 2021

Washington US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin on Sunday that it was once an honour to meet India's Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat during his recent US visit, throughout which they reaffirmed India-US enduring dedication to a…

India matching Chinese troop build-up on disputed border

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 3, 2021

NEW DELHI The Indian army chief has said China is sending troops to their disputed border in “considerable numbers”, prompting a matching deployment with the aid of New Delhi in a development he called a “concern”. Tensions have been…

iPhone 12 price down

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 2, 2021

The year once more when you do not have any reason to end because the e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon are returned with crazy offers on products. Flipkart's Big Billion Days sale is now staying for Plus members in India. For…

We can be bridge between India, Latin America, says Colombian Vice President

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 2, 2021

New Delhi Colombian Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, Marta Lucia Ramirez paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 152nd start anniversary at Raj Ghat in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, Ramirez offered…

India all set to rise re-engage diplomatic and economic with Sri Lanka

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 2, 2021

New Delhi After a lean phase, India and Sri Lanka are set to re-engage at diplomatic and political levels amidst the massive economic disaster and the extreme COVID-19 wave that has gripped the island country. Foreign Secretary Harsh…

Orders to ‘hunt down’ man-eater tiger that killed 4 people

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 1, 2021

Chennai, India Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Dr. Shekhar Kumar Niraj Friday issued orders to “ hunt down ” a man-eater tiger that had killed at least four people and added than 20 cattle in the surrounding areas…

Navjot Singh Sidhu is likely to stay on as Punjab Congress chief for now, sources say

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 30, 2021

New Delhi Navjot Singh Sidhu is likely to stay on as Punjab Congress chief, for now, sources say, with Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi reportedly agreeing to withdraw a top appointment in their meeting today, the first since Mr.…

100 Chinese Troops Crossed Over Into Uttarakhand In August

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 30, 2021

New Delhi The de facto border between India and China remains contentious in several regions beyond Ladakh, details are emerging about the latest incursion by Chinese forces, this time in Uttarakhand's Barahoti region, North of the Nanda…

Delhi sees 42 fresh Covid-19 cases, total 5 deaths recorded in September

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 30, 2021

Delhi on Wednesday recorded 41 fresh Covid-19 cases and zero deaths, the Delhi health department said during a notification. The positivity rate stood at 0.06 percent. thus far in September, only 5 Covid-related deaths have registered…

Afghan’s Peace and Stability for Pan-Himalayas Region

bidhur dhakal Sep 28, 2021

Seven weeks after the Taliban took control over Kabul and, three weeks after the announcement of the new caretaker government by the Taliban; the world’s powers are yet to recognize the ‘Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan who is also the…

India Tests ‘Akash Prime’ Missile, Destroys Aerial Target

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 28, 2021

Chandipur, India A new version of the Akash Missile - 'Akash Prime' was successfully flight-tested from Integrated range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha on Monday. The missile intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial target mimicking…

Cyclone Gulab Reaches Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, speed of 90-100 Kmph

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 26, 2021

New Delhi Cyclone Gulab has made landfall in coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, the weather office tweeted this evening. The cyclone will cross the coasts between Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Gopalpur in Odisha within…

Do Not Confuse Border Dispute With Boundary Question, India Tells China

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 26, 2021

Beijing India has told China not to "shift goalposts" and "confuse" managing the border affairs and restoring peace at the frontiers with the larger issue of the resolution of the boundary question, which is addressed by different…

Pakistan rejects India’s claim on abettor of terrorism

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 26, 2021

UNITED NATIONS Pakistan had firmly rejected India’s claim at the United Nations on Friday that Indian Illegally-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir as its integral part, saying the Himalayan state was an internationally recognized disputed…

Quad coordinate diplomatic, economic, human-rights policies towards Afghanistan

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 25, 2021

Washington The first-ever in-person Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) Summit, leaders of the Quad nations during a joint statement said they're going to closely coordinate diplomatic, economic, and human-rights policies towards…

President Biden feels India should have permanent seat in UNSC

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 25, 2021

Washington US President Joe Biden feels that India should have a permanent seat within the UN Security Council, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Friday (local time). "There was an appreciation of our presidency of the…

2021 Ducati Monster launched in India, prices start Rs 10,99,000

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 23, 2021

Ducati India announced the launch of its all-new Monster range, with 2021 Ducati Monster priced at Rs 10,99,000 and 2021 Ducati Monster Plus priced at Rs 11,24,000 respectively (ex-showroom, India). The new 2021 Ducati Monster was…

PNG envoy calls for strong bilateral ties

jose kalathil Sep 23, 2021

NEW DELHI "There is need to strengthen cordial relations between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and India. This will help in both the countries mutually," said the PNG's High Commissioner to India Paulias Korni. Speaking at the 46th National…

Google moves Delhi HC against CCI’s confidential report leaked to media

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 23, 2021

New Delhi Tech giant Google filed a writ petition on Thursday within the Delhi high court alleging a confidential interim fact-finding report submitted by the Director General's office to the Competition Commission of India (CCI) about…

Sri Lankan navy attack Indian fishermen

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 23, 2021

RAMESWARAM, India Boats and fishing nets of Indian fishermen from here were damaged in an alleged attack by the Sri Lankan Navy, Tamil Nadu Fisheries officials said on Thursday. The incident happened late on Wednesday near…

India- Myanmar border sees exodus as thousands flee fighting

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 22, 2021

Myanmar towns near the Indian border have fled after buildings were set aflame by artillery amid fighting between militia forces opposition military rule and also the army, according to residents and media reports. About 10,000 people…

Chinese hack targets Indian media, says Report

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 22, 2021

A U.S.-based private cybersecurity company said Wednesday it's uncovered evidence that an Indian media conglomerate, also as a police department and also the agency responsible for the country’s national identification database are hacked,…

India to target children aged 12 and over for Covid-19 vaccine from October

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 22, 2021

NEW DELHI All Indian children aged 12 or older will become eligible for Covid-19 vaccinations from next month when drugmaker Cadila Healthcare launches its ZyCoV-D product, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter told. The…

Assam burn 2,500 rhino horns to mark World Rhino Day

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 22, 2021

Golaghat, India The Assam government is ready to burn nearly 2,500 rhino horns on Wednesday in Bokakhat in public on the occasion of World Rhino Day. The government has decided to destroy 2,479 rhino horns while 94 horns are preserved…

Karnataka’s children are not healthy-over million ill, malnourished

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2021

BENGALURU Karnataka’s children need attention. Experts are worried over data thrown up by the Arogya Nandana campaign to screen the state’s children to trace their health. In 20 days of survey, of 53,82,106 children aged 0-18,…

Chinese PLA carries out night battle drill near Indian border

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2021

New Delhi Chinese People's Liberation Army carried out a night battle exercise at over 16,000 feet on the heights of Xinjian, near the Indian border amid the 2 countries' border dispute in eastern Ladakh and ongoing military and…

Extinction Cheetahs to return India after 70 years

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 18, 2021

Then seven decades after maharajas and British colonial hunters wiped cheetahs from the Indian landscape, the world’s fastest land animal will sprint back to the country under new conservation plans. More than a dozen African cheetahs…

China-India agree to safeguard border peace

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 17, 2021

DUSHANBE Chinese State Councilor and foreign minister Wang Yi and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility within the border areas. During…

Cases of dengue higher started rising in Delhi

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 17, 2021

NEW DELHI Cases of dengue have started rising in Delhi. So far, the capital has recorded 158 cases as against 131 recorded in 2020 till this point of the year. within the second week of September alone, 34 dengue patients were found.…

India second-largest technology hub for Amazon globally

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 16, 2021

NEW DELHI India is that the second-largest technology hub for Amazon globally and its teams are powering innovations not just for customers within the country but globally also, a top company executive said on Thursday. Speaking at…

Received financial bids for purchasing Air India; Tatas among suitors

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 15, 2021

NEW DELHI The government on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, said it's received multiple financial bids for purchasing national carrier Air India. Meanwhile, a Tata Sons spokesperson told that it's put during a bid for the airline.…

With Taliban’s rise, India sees renewed threat in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 14, 2021

SRINAGAR, India India’s leaders are anxiously watching the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, fearing that it will benefit their bitter rival Pakistan and feed a long-simmering insurgency in the disputed region of Kashmir, where militants…

Building collapsed in North Delhi, rescue operations underway

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 13, 2021

NEW DELHI A building collapsed in north Delhi's Sabzi Mandi area on Monday, following which seven fire tenders were rushed to the spot for rescue operations, officials said. an individual trapped under the debris was rescued and…

4.6 magnitude earthquake hits Uttarakhand

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 11, 2021

New Delhi An earthquake of magnitude 4.6 hit Joshimath in Uttarakhand at 05:58 am today, the National Center for Seismology informed.

India vs England 5th Test: Match cancelled

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 11, 2021

An intense 24-hour drama that began on Thursday with a support staffer of the Indian team testing positive in Manchester, ended on Friday morning with the ultimate Test of the five-match series between India and England being called off.…

U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry will visit India on Sept. 12

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 11, 2021

Washington U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry will visit India from Sept. 12-14 “to discuss efforts to boost global climate ambition and speed India’s clean energy transition,” the State Department said on Friday.…

Tax Department “Surveys” At Offices of news Sites NewsClick, Newslaundry

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 10, 2021

New Delhi Income Tax officers visited the offices of news sites NewsClick and Newslaundry today, calling them "surveys" and not "raids". The tax department confirmed that officers had gone to the offices of those news portals in south…

India logs 34,973 new COVID-19 cases, 260 deaths

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 10, 2021

New Delhi India on Friday reported 34,973 fresh COVID-19 cases, 37,681 recoveries, and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours, said the Union Health Ministry. Of these, Kerala recorded 26,200 new cases and 114 deaths. The Health Ministry…

BRICS an important force on international stage,says Xi Jinping

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 9, 2021

BRICS countries have become an important force on the international stage to be reckoned with, Chinese President Xi Jinping said while addressing the 13th BRICS summit on Thursday via video link. The bloc is celebrating its 15th…

Ford To Cease Local Production In India, Shut Down Both Plants

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 9, 2021

Ford Motor Co. will stop making cars in India and shut down both of its plants in the country, becoming the latest automaker to exit the market. Ford made the decision as it was not profitable for them to continue, said one of the…

Realme Pad With 10.4-Inch Display Launched in India

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 9, 2021

Realme Pad with a slim design and quad speakers was launched in India on Thursday through a virtual launch event. The company's first tablet is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G80 SoC and supports Dolby Atmos sound. Realme Pad…

India, EU strategic convergence reflects ‘our positions’ on Afghanistan: Jaishankar

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 8, 2021

New Delhi External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that the strategic convergence between India and the European Union (EU) is reflected in "our positions" on key regional and global issues, including on Afghanistan and the…

Xi promotes Wang Haijiang to rank of General for PLA’s Western Theatre Command

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 8, 2021

Beijing Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday promoted Wang Haijiang to rank of General for People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Western Theatre Command, which oversees the borders with India. Xi, chairman of the Central Military…

Australian ministers will embark on joint visits to Indonesia, India, South Korea, US

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 8, 2021

Canberra, Australia Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton will be visiting Indonesia, India, South Korea, and the United States, Australia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday. This…

Rajasthan government recruit 3,896 village development officers

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 8, 2021

The Rajasthan government will soon recruit 3,896 village development officers, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Tuesday. https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1435170638453346306

launches ‘Flipkart Boost’ for digital-first consumer brands

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 7, 2021

Walmart-owned Flipkart on Tuesday launched 'Flipkart Boost', a new program aimed at helping digital-first consumer brands to grow their business. Through a service fee model, Flipkart Boost will provide end-to-end support covering planning,…

Jos Buttler and Jack Leach return as England bid to salvage India series

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 7, 2021

London England men's head coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for the fifth Test against India starting at Old Trafford on Friday. Star batsman Jos Buttler and spinner Jack Leach return to the England squad for the fifth…

Best Places for Trekking in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 6, 2021

Are you planning a trekking holiday in Kashmir in 2022? Well, first of all, congratulate yourself for making such a right decision. After all, nothing can compare to the experience of trekking amidst the astounding beauty of the…

Thousands of Indian farmers rally against farm laws

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 5, 2021

Muzaffarnagar, INDIA thousands of farmers gathered in India's most crowded state Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, the biggest rally yet in a months-long series of demonstrations to press Narendra Modi’s government to repeal three new…

India hurries teacher vaccinations as some physical classes continue

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 25, 2021

NEW DELHI India will supply a large number of COVID-19 vaccine doses to its states to attempt to inoculate all school teachers by early next month, the health minister said on Wednesday, as the country continuously continues physical…

Sonia Gandhi calling for Opposition solidarity

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 21, 2021

 New Delhi Congress President Sonia Gandhi sounded the bugle for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections at a virtual meeting of 19 Resistance Opposition parties. The Congress president said that 2024 was the "ultimate goal", and added: "This is a…

In Kashmir, anti-insurgency operations are leaving many homeless

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 8, 2021

 Aamir Ali Bhat A broken geyser, dented kitchen sink, wreckage of washing machine, utensils, and toys are under the debris of what used to be a kitchen and washroom. The burnt wooden windows and doors still emanate the smell of smoke. One…

Himachal bridge hit by boulders rolling down hill, 9 tourists dead

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 25, 2021

Shimla, India Nine tourists were killed and several were injured after a massive landslide hit a bridge in Himachal Pradesh's Sangla valley today. In a terrifying video, large chunks of rocks can be seen breaking off a mountain and…

India internet law adds to fears over online speech, privacy

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 15, 2021

SHEIKH SAALIQ and KRUTIKA PATHI | NEW DELHI It began in February with a tweet by pop star Rihanna that sparked widespread condemnation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handling of massive farmer protests near the capital, souring…

Expected 3rd wave of COVID-19 in India likely to be ‘weak,’ says virologist

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 10, 2021

Ahmad Adil | NEW DELHI If a third wave hits India, it may be "very small" compared to the first and second wave, a reputed virologist said, as the country is now recording a decline in the cases and deaths after the devastating second…

5 militants, soldier killed in Kashmir shootout

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 2, 2021

Hilal Mir | SRINAGAR At least five militants and an Indian soldier were killed in a shootout Friday in southern Pulwama district of the Indian-administered Kashmir, police said. In a statement, police said the killed militants…

KARE to have Taiwan Education Centre for Madurai region

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 23, 2021

Jose Kalathil | NEW DELHI The Education Division of the Taipei Economic & Cultural Centre in India (TECC) signed an MoU with Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE), Tamil Nadu to set up the first Taiwan Education…

India’s ‘Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh dies

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2021

NEW DELHI Milkha Singh, one of India´s most successful track athletes who overcame childhood tragedy to seek Olympic glory, has died aged 91 after a long battle with Covid-19, Indian media said Friday. Tributes to the athlete known as…

One lakh Covid-19 tests during Kumbh festival fake

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2021

Uttarakhand state in northern India has ordered a police inquiry into allegations of private labs filing fake Covid reports. Media reports say fake names, mobile numbers and addresses were used in more than 100,000 tests during the…

Nepal Inaugurates Hydro Power Plant Rebuilt With Indian Assistance

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2021

Kathmandu  The newly rehabilitated small hydro power plant at Chandannath Municipality in Nepal's Jumla district was virtually inaugurated on Wednesday, said the Indian embassy in Kathmandu. The small hydro power plant was built with…

Modi seeks to tame social media firms

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2021

Christopher McMichael Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s right-wing government has intensified its efforts to police speech in India by trying to control social media platforms, which are critical spaces for dissenting voices. In an ironic…

India lose 90 pc of area under its biodiversity hotspots, says CSE

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 9, 2021

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI : India has lost 90 per cent of the area under its four biodiversity hotspots. The Indo-Burma hotspot is the worst hit -- the extent of vegetation in the region has been reduced from 2,373,057 sq km to a mere…

Leader counts his votes, count our dead

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2021

 Insiyah Vahanvaty When Narendra Modi rose to power in 2014, it was on the mandate of development. After more than a decade of his leadership as Chief Minister of the state of Gujarat, which lies along the western coast of India, Modi was…

Pakistani premier rules out normalization of ties with India

THE ASIA LIVE May 30, 2021

KARACHI, Pakistan Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday ruled out the possibility of normalization of fraught trade and diplomatic relations with longtime rival India, saying it will be tantamount to "betraying" Kashmiris.…

Vietnam finds new virus variant, hybrid of India, UK strains

THE ASIA LIVE May 30, 2021

HANOI, Vietnam Vietnam finds new virus variant, hybrid of India, UK strains said Saturday. Nguyen Thanh Long said scientists examined the genetic makeup of the virus that had infected some recent patients, and found the new version of…

Is media too facile and undiscriminating towards Muslims?

THE ASIA LIVE May 27, 2021

Ghulam Nabi Fai I am gratified by this opportunity to explore media influence in the US on foreign and national security policy regarding Muslim nations and peoples in general and Kashmir in particular. Let me begin by summarizing the…

WhatsApp sues Indian government over new internet rules

THE ASIA LIVE May 26, 2021

NEW DELHI The messaging app WhatsApp has sued the Indian government seeking to defend its users’ privacy and stop new rules that would require it to make messages “traceable” to external parties. WhatsApp filed the lawsuit Wednesday…

Vaccine inequality in India sends many falling through gaps

THE ASIA LIVE May 26, 2021

NEW DELHI As the coronavirus tears through India, night watchman Sagar Kumar thinks constantly about getting vaccines for himself and his family of five amid critical shortages of shots in the country. But even if he knew how to get one,…

Ship fire rages for 6th day off Sri Lanka, India sends ships

THE ASIA LIVE May 26, 2021

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka A fire on a container ship carrying chemicals raged off Sri Lanka for a sixth day Wednesday and India sent vessels to help douse the blaze, officials said. Five tugboats are fighting the fire, aided by a Sri Lankan…

The poor, the rich: In a sick India, all are on their own

THE ASIA LIVE May 23, 2021

NEW DELHI For the family of the retired diplomat, the terror struck as they tried desperately to get him past the entrance doors of a private hospital. One family in a nation of 1.3 billion. One case of COVID-19 in a country facing an…

India’s national carrier says hack leaked passengers’ data

THE ASIA LIVE May 23, 2021

NEW DELHI Personal data of an unspecified number of travelers has been compromised after a company that serves India’s national carrier was hacked, Air India said. The hackers were able to access 10 years’ worth of data including…

Air India says data on 4.5 million passengers stolen

THE ASIA LIVE May 22, 2021

Air India data breach: The airline said the cyber-attack that compromised the data of millions of passengers from across the world involved personal data registered between August 26, 2011 and February 20, 2021.

Indian court acquits prominent journalist of rape charge

THE ASIA LIVE May 21, 2021

NEW DELHI An Indian trial court on Friday acquitted the founder and editor of an investigative magazine of the charge of sexually assaulting a female journalist in the elevator of a five-star hotel nearly eight years ago. Judge Kshama…

Thailand reports 1st cases of Indian coronavirus variant

THE ASIA LIVE May 21, 2021

BANGKOK, Thailand Thailand on Friday said it has detected its first locally transmitted cases of the coronavirus variant discovered in India, as it announced the formal rollout of its national vaccination plan next month. The Center…

India braces for powerful cyclone amid deadly virus surge

THE ASIA LIVE May 17, 2021

NEW DELHI A powerful cyclone roaring in the Arabian Sea was moving toward India’s western coast on Monday as authorities tried to evacuate hundreds of thousands of people and suspended COVID-19 vaccinations in one state. Cyclone…

India police jail 21 Kashmiris amid pro-Palestinian rallies

THE ASIA LIVE May 15, 2021

SRINAGAR, India Police in Indian-controlled Kashmir said Saturday that 21 people were arrested for disturbing public order by expressing solidarity with Palestine and holding protests against Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.…

India probes death of 18 elephants ‘hit by lightning’

THE ASIA LIVE May 14, 2021

Nagaon, India Indian authorities launched a probe Friday into the deaths of at least 18 elephants, as a leading conservationist raised doubts that the animals were killed by lightning. The dead herd was found in the hilly Kandali…

Festival travel, vaccine shortage put Bangladesh at risk

THE ASIA LIVE May 13, 2021

DHAKA, Bangladesh Tens of thousands of people left Bangladesh’s capital on Thursday to join their families in home villages to celebrate the Islamic religious festival of Eid al-Fitr, despite stark warnings that the exodus could worsen…

India coronavirus death toll passes 250,000, variant spreads

THE ASIA LIVE May 12, 2021

New Delhi India's coronavirus death toll passed 250,000 on Wednesday as the World Health Organization said the variant fuelling the surge had been found in dozens of countries across the globe. While vaccinations have helped to ease…

Scientists race to study variants in India as cases explode

THE ASIA LIVE May 12, 2021

NEW DELHI A potentially worrisome variant of the coronavirus detected in India may spread more easily. But the country is behind in doing the kind of testing needed to track it and understand it better. On Monday, the World Health…

No talks with India till Aug 5 decision reversed: Imran Khan

THE ASIA LIVE May 12, 2021

ISLAMABAD Prime Minister Imran Khan Tuesday categorically stated that Pakistan would not resume talks with India till it restored the special status of the occupied Kashmir. "Unless India reverts its August 5, 2019 action, Pakistan…

Scores of dead bodies found floating in India’s Ganges River

THE ASIA LIVE May 11, 2021

NEW DELHI Scores of dead bodies have been found floating down the Ganges River in eastern India as the country battles a ferocious surge in coronavirus infections. Authorities said Tuesday they haven’t yet determined the cause of death.…

Will Modi’s push for economic self-reliance succeed?

THE ASIA LIVE May 11, 2021

Suman Bery India has pursued two linked objectives since its independence and partition in 1947: to restore the country’s standing as one of the world’s major economies and to preserve geopolitical freedom of action, or ‘strategic…

India-Pakistan: The pros and cons of backchannel diplomacy

THE ASIA LIVE May 9, 2021

Abdul Aziz Bhurgri The door of peace between Pakistan and India leads through backchannel negotiations and both countries have successfully used it to bring about substantial confidence-building measures. For any backchannel…

Pakistan urges UN to press India for release of political prisoners in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE May 9, 2021

KARACHI, Pakistan Pakistan conveyed its “deep” concern to the UN over the death of jailed pro-freedom Kashmiri leader Ashraf Sehrai and called for the release of all political prisoners in the Indian-administered Kashmir, the country’s…

As India surges, Bangladesh lacks jabs, faces virus variants

THE ASIA LIVE May 8, 2021

DHAKA, Bangladesh India’s surge in coronavirus cases is having a dangerous effect on neighboring Bangladesh. Health experts warn of imminent vaccine shortages just as the country should be stepping up its vaccination drive, and as more…

EU, India try again to clinch trade deal, sidelining China

THE ASIA LIVE May 8, 2021

PORTO, Portugal The European Union and India agreed Saturday to restart negotiations on a bilateral free trade deal, eight years after their first attempt failed and as both sides seek alternatives to China. Indian Prime Minister…

‘Himalayan Quad’: Western Skeptical on ‘Tran-Himalayan Cooperation’

bidhur dhakal May 7, 2021

Globe is fighting against the COVID-19 pandemic. The global powers are fighting themselves for geopolitical supremacy. Nepal's geopolitical position in South Asia is considered strategically important to all. Two neighbors, China and India,…

India’s gov’t eases hospital oxygen shortage as demand jumps

THE ASIA LIVE May 6, 2021

NEW DELHI Under order by the Supreme Court, India’s government agreed on Thursday to provide more medical oxygen to hospitals in the capital, potentially easing a 2-week-old shortage that worsened the country’s exploding coronavirus…

Medical Supplies Flow Into India as COVID-19 Deaths Near 200,000

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 27, 2021

NEW DELHI Vital medical supplies poured into India on Tuesday as hospitals starved of oxygen supplies and beds turned away coronavirus patients, while a surge in infections pushed the death toll towards 200,000. Supplies from Britain,…

SOS messages, panic as virus breaks India’s health system

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 27, 2021

NEW DELHI Dr. Gautam Singh dreads the daily advent of the ventilator beeps, signaling that oxygen levels are critically low, and hearing his desperately ill patients start gasping for air in the New Delhi emergency ward where he works.…

Can Asia reinvent global trade?

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 26, 2021

Bilahari Kausikan Let’s not believe our own propaganda. Asia reinventing global trade is a superficially attractive but problematic proposition. It assumes there once was a free international economy open to reinvention. It assumes there…

Bangladesh seals border with India

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 25, 2021

Dhaka Bangladesh has decided to close its border with India for the next 14 days to control the spread of the deadly virus. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told Sunday a ban on entry from India has been imposed in line with the…

India’s crematoriums overwhelmed as virus ‘swallows people’

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 25, 2021

NEW DELHI India’s crematoriums and burial grounds are being overwhelmed by the devastating new surge of infections tearing through the populous country with terrifying speed, depleting the supply of life-saving oxygen to critical levels…

Election Commission to Rise to ‘Sheshan’ Standards!

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 25, 2021

Dr M. D. Thomas The ‘High Court of Calcutta’, I am sure, caught the attention of the entire country, and even much beyond, on 22 April 2021, for having given a ‘slap on the wrist’ of Election Commission of India, as regards its failure…

Fire kills 13 COVID-19 patients in hospital in western India

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 23, 2021

NEW DELHI A fire broke out in a hospital in western India early Friday, killing 13 COVID-19 patients, as an extreme surge in infections leaves the nation short of medical care and oxygen. India reported more than 314,000 new…

‘Beg, borrow, steal’: the fight for oxygen among New Delhi’s hospitals

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 22, 2021

Pankaj Solanki, a doctor and the director of a small hospital in New Delhi, rushed to an oxygen vendor earlier this week to secure enough cylinders to keep 10 COVID-19 patients on the ICU ward breathing. His supplies would only last…

Oxygen supply disruption kills 22 COVID-19 patients in India

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 21, 2021

NEW DELHI Twenty-two COVID-19 patients on ventilators died in a hospital in western India on Wednesday when their oxygen supply was interrupted by a leak in a supply line, officials said. Suraj Mandhar, the district collector, said…

‘Muslims in India need to empower themselves’

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 21, 2021

NEW DELHI Muslims in India need to work towards empowering themselves as the government’s policies for the community have been “inadequate,” according to Indian journalist and prominent author Ghazala Wahab. Wahab, who has come up…

Modi asks Indians to do better to stop virus amid new surge

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 20, 2021

New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi late Tuesday called on Indians to step up their efforts to battle the coronavirus so that fresh lockdowns are not necessary, as the vast nation reels from an explosion of cases and the capital runs…

Japan, India to postpone security talks amid surging COVID cases

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 20, 2021

TOKYO The Japanese and Indian governments have decided to postpone their foreign and defense ministerial talks scheduled this weekend in Tokyo as a rapid increase in coronavirus cases in India has made it difficult for the ministers to…

Indian railway ‘superhero’ pulls off dramatic rescue

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 20, 2021

Mumbai, India An Indian railway worker has been hailed a "superhero" after he sprinted more than 30 metres along a track to grab a boy from the path of an express train. CCTV images of Mayur Shelke's incredible rescue have gone viral…

India in crisis as hospitals run out of beds and oxygen for COVID-19 patients

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 20, 2021

NEW DELHI An alarming spike in COVID-19 cases has created a crisis across India, particularly in the capital, New Delhi, recording more than 25,000 cases — about one in three of those tested — in the past 24 hours, according to official…

India allows COVID-19 vaccination for those above 18

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 20, 2021

NEW DELHI India has allowed vaccination against COVID-19 to everyone above the age of 18 from May 1, an official release said Monday. The announcement by the government comes as the country’s coronavirus situation continues to worsen,…

COVID-19 surge rattles hospitals in India

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 18, 2021

NEW DELHI In New Delhi, one sound is conspicuous these days -- the siren of ambulances. More so outside the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital, one of India's largest COVID-19 facilities. As India is witnessing an unprecedented…

Kashmir dispute: A neglected Issue

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 16, 2021

Ghulam Nabi Fai Benjamin Franklin, a signer of the US Declaration of Independence from Britain and the man responsible for negotiating a treaty between the colonies and France, asked: “When will mankind be convinced and agree to settle…

Indigenously developed ‘Remotely’ can solve age-old problems

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 15, 2021

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI: Pandemic Covid-19 has forced people all over the world to stay and work from home. In this new normal, augmented reality (AR)-enabled learning is the only option for the future. This new technology has made…

India overstrips Brazil as world’s second worst-hit country by coronavirus

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 12, 2021

NEW DELHI With 168,912 new coronavirus infections overnight, India overtook Brazil to become the second-most affected country globally by the coronavirus on Monday. India’s overall tally reached 13.53 million, surpassing Brazil’s…

12 Kashmir militants killed in last 72 hours: Police

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 11, 2021

SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir A 14-year-old boy who recently joined militant ranks was killed along with 11 other militants in separate gunfights in Indian-administered Kashmir during the last 72 hours, regional police said on Sunday.…

India: 5 dead in election violence in West Bengal

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 10, 2021

NEW DELHI At least five people have been killed in election-related violence in the eastern state of West Bengal, local media reported on Saturday. The violence occurred as voters came out to cast their ballots in what was the fourth…

Pakistan accuses India of unabated killing of Kashmiris

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 10, 2021

ISLAMABAD Pakistan on Friday accused India of continuing "extra-judicial killings" of innocent Kashmiris, calling for impartial investigations to be carried out under international supervision. "Extra-judicial killings in the…

CTA Election, Mounting American Persuade and Impact on Nepal-China Relation

bidhur dhakal Apr 10, 2021

On Sunday, Tibetan refugees are voting to elect the leadership of their government. The final phase of the election, to be held on April 11 in Dharamshala and other cities around the world will elect the next Sikyong (President).  The final…

March food prices at nearly 7-year high: UN body

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 8, 2021

Building from a 10-month rise, in March world food prices hit their highest monthly average since June 2014, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said Thursday. The FAO Food Price Index averaged 118.5 points this March, up 2.4…

Taiwan Thanks India For Expression Of Sentiment On Train Tragedy

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 3, 2021

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI: Taiwan has thanked India for the expression of sentiment and support it extended on the tragic death of 48 people and injury to 66 others after an express train with almost 500 aboard derailed in a tunnel on…

EVM In Assam BJP Candidate Car: 4 Officials Suspended, Repoll At Station

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 2, 2021

Guwahati, India The Election Commission today ordered fresh voting in one polling station of Assam's Ratabari seat following a controversy over officials transporting an electronic voting machine (EVM) in a BJP candidate's car yesterday.…

India expands Covid-19 vaccine drive as virus surge worsens

THE ASIA LIVE Apr 1, 2021

Mumbai, India India on Thursday expanded its coronavirus vaccination drive to the 45-60 age group as the country tries to tackle a surge in new infections. Public and private centres offering jabs would be open every day throughout…

3rd COVID-19 wave takes toll on Asia-Pacific

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 31, 2021

Amid ramped up vaccinations across the world to fight the coronavirus pandemic, a third wave of the virus has already taken a toll on the Asia-Pacific region. Countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia and the…

Indian interfaith institute bags UN award

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 29, 2021

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI: The Institute of Harmony and Peace Studies (IHPS), New Delhi, has been selected for the 11th ‘King Abdullah II World Interfaith Harmony Week’ 2021 Prize. Other winners of the prize are Wellington Interfaith…

Climate change set to drive more deadly heat in South Asia

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 25, 2021

The threat could be halved if the world meets the goal set under Paris agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial times Deadly heatwaves in South Asia are likely to become more common in the future, with the region's…

Understand the true meaning of 26 verses of Quran, says Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat India

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 20, 2021

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI: The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat India (JMAI) has strongly condemned the demand the deletion of 26 verses of the Holy Quran and filing a public interest petition in the Supreme Court in this regard. Reacting to a…

India sticks to AstraZeneca vaccine ‘with full vigour’

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 17, 2021

New Delhi India is not worried about some EU countries suspending use of the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine and will continue to roll out the shot in its huge immunisation programme "with full vigour", a senior official said Wednesday.…

Mamata Banerjee suffers injury while campaigning

THE ASIA LIVE Mar 10, 2021

Kolkata, India West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suffered a leg injury after being pushed in Nandigram area of the Purba Medinipur district in West Bengal. She said: “A few people pushed me when I was near my car. I suffered…

China, India, Russia engage in vaccine diplomacy as western nations hoard supplies

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 28, 2021

Tokyo, Japan China, India and Russia are stepping up efforts to expand their influence by providing coronavirus vaccines to developing and middle-income countries, while advanced countries scramble to secure doses of US- and…

Bangladesh under no obligation to accept stranded Rohingya refugees

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 27, 2021

Dhaka Bangladesh is under “no obligation” to shelter 81 Rohingya Muslim refugees adrift for almost two weeks on the Andaman Sea and being assisted by neighbouring India, said Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen. India’s coast…

Indian rooster kills owner with cockfight blade

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 27, 2021

New Delhi A rooster fitted with a knife for an illegal cockfight in southern India has killed its owner, sparking a manhunt for the organisers of the event, police said Saturday. The bird had a knife attached to its leg ready to take…

Imran Khan’s Sri Lanka visit may foster strategic partnership

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 26, 2021

KARACHI, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s maiden visit to Sri Lanka this week is part of Pakistan’s proactive strategy aimed at engaging South Asian countries amid worsening ties with longtime rival India, experts say. The two-day…

India steps up clampdown on US social media giants

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 25, 2021

New Delhi, India India imposed tough new rules on social media platforms Thursday as it accused US tech giants of "double standards" in taking down disputed content. The regulations take effect in three months and will force social…

India to vaccinate over-60s from March 1

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 24, 2021

New Delhi India plans to expand its vast but faltering coronavirus vaccination programme from March 1 by offering jabs to the over 60s, the government said Wednesday. The country began vaccinating its 1.3-billion population last month…

Border killings, smuggling on the agenda for Bangladesh-India home secretary-level meeting

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 24, 2021

Dhaka Border killings and smuggling are going to be at the top of the agenda for a home secretary-level meeting between India and Bangladesh expected to be held on February 27. The meeting is set to be held a month before Indian Prime…

Kashmir: Shining example of pluralism, diversity

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 21, 2021

Ghulam Nabi Fai Kashmir is internationally recognized as a disputed territory whose final status has yet to be determined by its people. Both India and Pakistan have nuclear weapons and have fought three wars during the past 73 years.…

India, China ‘complete disengagement’ of troops from part of border

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 21, 2021

New Delhi India said Sunday that its troops, along with their Chinese counterparts, had completed a pullback from a disputed part of their Himalayan border after months of heightened tensions. The nuclear-armed neighbours fought a…

India journalist says judgment paves way for more #MeToo stories

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 18, 2021

New Delhi She endured more than 50 court appearances over two years, sued for defamation by a former minister after telling her #MeToo story -- but Indian journalist Priya Ramani is proud she spoke out. On Wednesday, a court in New…

India police seeks more arrests over Thunberg-tweeted protest toolkit

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 16, 2021

NEW DELHI Indian police on Monday said they were searching for two activists after detaining a climate campaigner for allegedly helping to create a guide for anti-government farmers protests shared by environmentalist Greta Thunberg.…

India’s Vaccine Diplomacy

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 9, 2021

Biswajit Dhar For over two decades, India has earned a reputation for being the ‘pharmacy of the world’ thanks to its strong generic pharmaceutical industry, which supplies affordable and quality medicines to the global market. Medicine…

Afghanistan gets first doses of Covid-19 vaccine from India

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 7, 2021

Kabul Afghanistan received half a million doses of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine from India Sunday, the first consignment to arrive in the country that was hit hard by the virus last year. The AstraZeneca/Oxford University vaccine is…

Himalayan glacier bursts in India, 100-150 feared dead

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 7, 2021

NEW DELHI As many as 150 people were feared dead after a Himalayan glacier broke and crashed into an Indian dam early on Sunday, with floods forcing the evacuation of villages downstream. “The actual number has not been confirmed…

Huge police deployment counters Indian farmers protests

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 6, 2021

New Delhi Tens of thousands of police deployed across India on Saturday in a bid to smother threatened new protests by farmers fighting government agriculture reforms. Ten metro stations were closed in central New Delhi -- where a…

Time to end human tragedy, resolve Kashmir issue

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 6, 2021

RAWALPINDI, Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Friday paid salute to the Kashmiri people for their valiant struggle despite unprecedented Indian brutalities in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and…

Nation marks Kashmir Solidarity Day

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 5, 2021

ISLAMABAD The Kashmir Solidarity Day will be observed  Friday across the country with renewed commitment for bringing the Kashmir issue to the limelight amid brutal and unprecedented military siege of Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir…

Farmers protest: Indians lash out at ‘spineless celebrities’ on social media

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 4, 2021

The farmers protest has ended up dividing much of India when it shouldn't have and the country's celebrities who are otherwise quite vocal on social issues and in raising their voices against injustices, have kept mum over the government's…

“No Amount Of Threats…”: Greta Thunberg

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 4, 2021

 NEW DELHI  Greta Thunberg's tweets on farmers have been cited in a case filed today by the Delhi Police that alleges an overseas "conspiracy" and an attempt to "promote enmity between groups". The teen climate campaigner, unfazed,…

India tells Twitter to comply with account blocking orders

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 4, 2021

NEW DELHI India has written to Twitter warning it to comply with orders to block accounts and content related to a protest by farmers, a technology ministry source said on Wednesday. Twitter blocked dozens of accounts in India,…

“Farmers Won’t Back Down, Government Will Have To”: Rahul Gandhi

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 3, 2021

NEW DELHI Farmers protesting the agriculture laws will not back down and it is in the government's interest to relent, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said Tuesday, amid renewed support for those fighting to repeal the laws, particularly after…

Gujarat Will Never Rule Bengal, Declares Mamata Banerjee

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 3, 2021

Kolkata, India Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has triggerd a huge "outsider versus insider" debate in the state ahead of the assembly election, today offered a clarification, saying there is no discrimination in the state…

Pakistan not diplomatically isolated despite Indian efforts: Qureshi

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2021

ISLAMABAD Minister for Foreign Affairs Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Monday said that despite Indian efforts Pakistan is not diplomatically isolated and invited the opposition parties for discussion with the government on the foreign policy…

BJP MPs Have Done “Nothing” For North Bengal, Says Mamata Banerjee

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2021

Falakata, India West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the centre of not doing anything for the people of the northern districts despite having "so many" BJP MPs from the region. Ms Banerjee said that before every…

“Abide By Commitment,” Says India As Sri Lanka Pulls Out Of Port Deal

THE ASIA LIVE Feb 2, 2021

NEW DELHI India said on Tuesday it expected Sri Lanka to honour its agreement to allow it to operate a major port terminal following Colombo's decision to pull out of the deal. The East terminal of Colombo port will be 100% owned and…

Journalist arrested for ‘misbehaving’ with police at Singhu border

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 31, 2021

New Delhi Two journalists covering the farmers' protests at Singhu (on the Delhi-Haryana border) were detained Saturday night, for allegedly misbehaving with police personnel stationed there. The journalists have been identified as…

‘No military solution’: UN chief urges India, Pakistan to resolve Kashmir dispute

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 30, 2021

UNITED NATIONS UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on nuclear-armed India and Pakistan to “come together and seriously discuss their problems” saying a military confrontation would be “a disaster of unmitigated proportions” on…

India cuts off internet near Delhi as farmers begin hunger strike

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 30, 2021

NEW DELHI India blocked mobile internet services in several areas around New Delhi on Saturday as protesting farmers began a one-day hunger strike after a week of clashes with authorities that left one dead and hundreds injured. Angry…

Nepal re-opens border with India with restrictions

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 29, 2021

Kathmandu,Nepal Nepal has re-opened its border with India after keeping it closed for months due to COVID-19 pandemic but the Indians will need permission to cross the border via land, according to the Nepal Home Ministry. The…

Minor Blast Close to Israel Embassy Sparks Scare In Delhi’s VIP Zone

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 29, 2021

New Delhi A "very low-intensity" IED (improvised explosive device) was detonated near the Israeli embassy in the heart of central Delhi on Friday evening, the police have said, adding that no injuries or property damage, apart from…

India is not democratic but fascist state: Pakistan

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 29, 2021

ISLAMABAD Pakistan on Thursday called upon the international community to see the reality of India as "state-sponsor of terrorism" and also a "purveyor of anti-Pakistan propaganda globally". The Foreign Office Spokesperson, at a weekly…

Shashi Tharoor, 6 Journalists Face Sedition For Farmers’ Protest Posts

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 29, 2021

New Delhi Police cases have been filed in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh against Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and six journalists for allegedly "misreporting" and "spreading disharmony" on Republic Day when a tractor rally by farmers…

Indian court rules groping minor without touching skin isn’t sexual assault

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 27, 2021

NEW DELHI A court in India has ruled that groping a minor girl "without touching her skin" is not sexual assault under the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. India's attorney-general KK Venugopal has called…

India farmers return to protest camps after clashes

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 27, 2021

NEW DELHI Protesting farmers in India have returned to border areas, a day after the capital witnessed violent clashes, to continue their demonstrations "peacefully." Thousands are encamped on the outskirts of Delhi since November…

Photos: Beauty of Kashmir’s snow-capped Gulmarg

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 26, 2021

Fayaz Kabli Srinagar, India: Snow lies knee-deep in the pastoral town of Gulmarg, or “meadow of flowers,” on Indian-controlled Kashmir’s high plateau. With its blanket of white, the idyllic hill station is seeing tourists again fill…

Chaos in New Delhi as protesting farmers hoist Khalistan flag on Red Fort

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 26, 2021

NEW DELHI The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi failed to stop protesting farmers despite police crackdown who entered the historic Red Fort complex in the capital and hoist Khalistan flags. Growers, angered by laws they say…

Indian citizen with fake UK visa arrested at Bangladesh airport

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 25, 2021

Dhaka, Bangladesh An Indian citizen has been arrested with a fake UK visa at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) for trying to enter the UK by a flight of the Biman Bangladesh airlines. The Armed Police Battalion (APBn)…

India, China “Minor Face-Off” In Sikkim

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 25, 2021

New Delhi Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed along the Line of Actual Control near Naku La pass in Sikkim last week, the army said today, downplaying the incident as a "minor face-off". The clashes took place on January 20, when a…

“Now, Arrest Me”: Tejashwi Yadav

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 22, 2021

New Delhi Nitish Kumar, who has often displayed a short fuse when it comes to criticism on social media, has ordered action against "offensive" posts against his government in Bihar. Bihar's Economic Offences wing, the agency in charge…

Police refuse to return bodies of 3 Kashmir youths to families

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 19, 2021

SRINAGAR, India Police in Indian-administered Kashmir said Monday they will not hand over the bodies of three youths killed last month to their families because their funerals could trigger protests. Police claimed on Dec. 30 last…

Case registered against makers of Indian web series

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 18, 2021

NEW DELHI Indian police have filed a case against Amazon Prime's country head for content, and makers of a latest web series for "hurting religious sentiments." The case was registered in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh…

Pakistani premier says India exposed on Balakot strike

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 18, 2021

ISLAMABAD Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan onIndiaMonday slammed the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in New Delhi for using local media to malign Islamabad for political benefit following fresh disclosures of the…

Pakistan wants India held ‘accountable’ for 2019 airstrike

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 18, 2021

ARACHI, Pakistan Pakistan on Sunday urged the world community to hold longtime rival India "accountable" for an airstrike by its air force on a northwestern Pakistani town in February 2019, days after the killings of dozens of Indian…

India: Dhannipur Mosque Project to start Jan 26

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 18, 2021

NEW DELHI A construction project in India’s northern city of Ayodhya as part of the settlement of the case surrounding the 1992 demolition of the Babri mosque will formally begin on Jan. 26, India’s Republic Day, the trust responsible…

Kashmir: 48 dailies made ineligible for government ads

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 16, 2021

SRINAGAR,India Authorities in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir have dropped 48 newspapers from a panel that makes periodicals eligible to run government advertisements, officials said Saturday. While 10 dailies have been struck…

India launches world’s largest vaccination drive

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 16, 2021

NEW DELHI, India India's prime minister launched the world's largest vaccination rollout against the novel coronavirus Saturday. The immunization drive is set to cover more than 300,000 workers on its first day alone and over 30…

Bangladeshi youth shot dead by BSF along Lalmonirhat border

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 15, 2021

Lalmonirhat,Bangladesh A Bangladeshi man has been shot dead by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) along the Bangladesh-India border in Patgram upazila of Lalmonirhat. The deceased was identified as Abul Kalam, 30, son of Joynul…

Indian Villagers Pull Truck From Gorge

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 12, 2021

Nagaland,India The Kutsapo villagers under Phek district in Nagaland pulling out a truck with ropes which fell off the road, is probably one of the best video going viral in various social media platforms, which is also sending out a…

India’s quick nod to homegrown COVID-19 vaccine seeds doubt

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 11, 2021

NEW DELHI As the director of a large hospital in the Indian state that has seen the country’s most coronavirus cases, Dr. S.P. Kalantri had been waiting for the day a vaccine would be approved and bring protection not only to his…

Islamabad tells Washington: Reserve your concern for Indian terrorism

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 11, 2021

ISLAMABAD In a rare rebuke to the US Department of State, the Foreign Office Sunday reminded it that Pakistan was fully abiding by its own statutes and fulfilling international obligations. “The State Department is encouraged to…

‘Pakistanis who entered India inadvertently sent home’

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 10, 2021

NEW DELHI Six Pakistanis who “inadvertently” strayed over the border were repatriated on Saturday, Indian authorities said. The six men were detained a day earlier when they crossed into Indian territory along the international border…

Pakistan rejects India’s questioning on conviction

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 10, 2021

KARACHI, Pakistan Pakistan rejected a "malicious" statement Saturday by India regarding tbe conviction of a UN-designated individual by an Anti-Terrorism Court. The court in Lahore sentenced Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, a leader of the…

3 Kashmiris India killed were not militants: Families

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 6, 2021

SRINAGAR,India The controversy over last week’s killing of three Kashmiri men by Indian forces continues to grow as families of the victims stand firm on their demand for a probe into what they say was a fake encounter. Accused of…

India approves 2 COVID-19 vaccines for ’emergency use’

THE ASIA LIVE Jan 3, 2021

NEW DELHI India’s drug regulatory authority approved on Sunday two coronavirus vaccines for “restricted use in an emergency situation,” a day after an expert panel made recommendations to the regulatory body. Addressing a news…

75 Kashmiri leaders, activists under detention

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 27, 2020

SRINAGAR,India At least 75 Kashmiri political leaders and activists have been detained to forestall political unrest in the Indian-held Kashmir (IHK) after an alliance of regional political parties won a local election, leaders and a…

India sees year bookended by protests

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 25, 2020

NEW DELHI While 2020 in India began with widespread protests against the country’s controversial citizenship law, the year for the South Asian giant is also ending with massive public protests against new farming laws, with experts…

Ceasefire violations along LoC: Indian envoy summoned to register protest

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 24, 2020

ISLAMABAD The Indian Charge daffaires was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here on Wednesday to register Pakistan’s strong protest over ceasefire violations by the Indian occupation forces along with the Line of Control (LoC)…

Multi-party coalition wins local polls in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 23, 2020

SRINAGAR,India A multi-party coalition that opposed India's decision to unilaterally strip Jammu and Kashmir of its special autonomy won on Wednesday district council elections in the restive Himalayan region. The People’s Alliance…

India, Oman review bilateral cooperation in defence, economy, food security

THE ASIA LIVE Dec 3, 2020

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI,India : External Affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in a virtual meeting with Oman Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi reviewed bilateral cooperation in key areas of strategic…

Indian Exporters on Amazon Global Selling gear up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 25, 2020

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI,India: More than 70,000 Indian exporters on Amazon’s Global Selling programme are geared up to showcase millions of Made in India products to customers across the world on the annual Black Friday and Cyber Monday…

Foreign Secy Shringla to visit Nepal amid map controversy

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 24, 2020

New Delhi,India Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla will visit Nepal from November 26-27 for the first time after assuming office, months after Nepal considered updating the country's new map incorporating Indian territories.…

Bihar Polls: NDA crosses halfway mark while leading on 125 seats

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 10, 2020

Patna (Bihar),India The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has crossed halfway mark as per the Election Commission of India's (ECI) latest trends for 238 of 243 seats at around 11:30 am, leading on 125 seats - BJP 70, JDU 48, VIP 6,…

Pay Fine Or Sweep Roads: New Penalty For Mumbai’s Covid Mask Violators

THE ASIA LIVE Nov 1, 2020

Mumbai,India Next time if you are caught without a face mask in public in Mumbai, get ready to sweep roads as part of community service if you fail to pay fine to the city civic body. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is…

Indian Kashmir shuts down over land rights law

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 31, 2020

SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir Indian Kashmir was hit Saturday by its biggest general strike since losing its semi-autonomous status last year, with local anger brewing over a new measure allowing outsiders to buy land in the disputed…

India: Crucial Bihar provincial polls test for premier Modi

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 31, 2020

NEW DELHI, India The provincial assembly elections in India’s eastern state of Bihar amid the COVID-19 pandemic will not only test Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s acumen but also the strength of the three major alliances. The…

Ex-BJP leader admits India has lost more land in Ladakh to China

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 30, 2020

BEIJING A former parliamentarian of the ruling BJP, Thupstan Chhewang, admitted on Friday that India has lost more land in the Ladakh region of Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir to China's troops. Speaking to The Hindu, the ex-leader of…

Kashmir: Indian anti-terror agency raids multiple spots

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 28, 2020

SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted multiple raids in Kashmir early Wednesday morning. Raids were carried out at the offices of a newspaper and a non-profit organization and residences of two…

Energy Storage gets quicker and more efficient, thanks to Indian Academicians

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 28, 2020

The world runs on energy and devices that store energy whether it’s the supercapacitor, lithium batteries or even the solar panels have done wonders to change our lives and make it as comfortable as it gets. Now to further improve upon the…

UNHCHR dismayed at curbs on Rights, NGOs and arrests of activists

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 20, 2020

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI,India:UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has appealed to the Government of India to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders and NGOs, and their ability to carry out their crucial work on…

Afghanistan: Peace negotiator’s sojourn to entice India, Pakistan

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 16, 2020

KABUL, Afghanistan Afghanistan is walking on a tight rope, balancing its ties between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, lest their enmity affects the peace process in the war-torn country. Last week, Abdullah Abdullah, chairman High…

India’s COVID-19 infections surpass 7.3M mark

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 15, 2020

CHANDIGARH, India Amid the country's coronavirus count crossing 7.3 million, movie theaters along with additional activities started in several parts of the country on Thursday as part of allowing the fifth round of easing the…

Blue skies gone, pollution returns to Indian capital

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 13, 2020

CHANDIGARH, India Soon after India enforced a lockdown to stem the spread of COVID-19 this March, halting industrial activity, residents in the capital Delhi were thrilled to see clear blue skies and twinkling stars for the first time in…

US, Australia, India, Japan discuss China’s growing power

THE ASIA LIVE Oct 6, 2020

TOKYO Japan’s new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said Tuesday at a meeting with the U.S. and other diplomats that their “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” initiative, a concept to counter China’s growing assertiveness, is more important than ever…

Dedicated Bike Lanes, Racks On Public Buses To Encourage Cycling And End Traffic Woes

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 30, 2020

In order to reduce stress on the city's traffic, the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) in Bengaluru has decided to come up with dedicated pop-up bike lanes on either side of the Outer Ring Road (ORR) between Silk Board junction and…

3 Bollywood stars questioned in drug investigation

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 26, 2020

NEW DELHI Three Bollywood actors, including top star Deepika Padukone, were questioned by India’s narcotics agency on Saturday as part of an investigation into the movie industry’s alleged links with drug peddlers and cartels, officials…

New cases in India stay below 90K for 5th day

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 25, 2020

NEW DELHI India has reported another 86,052 coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, a declining trend with recoveries exceeding daily infections this week. The Health Ministry raised the nation’s confirmed total to more than 5.8 million…

Saudi Arabia Bans flight to and from India

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 24, 2020

Saudi Arabia has banned flights to and from India amid a surge in coronavirus cases, according to an official document. In a circular issued on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) said it was "suspending…

Indian couple run street-side classes for poor students

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2020

NEW DELHI On a quiet road in India’s capital, tucked away on a wide, red-bricked sidewalk, kids set adrift by the country’s COVID-19 lockdown are being tutored. The children, ages 4 to 14, carry book bags more than 2 kilometers (a mile)…

India, China commanders meet again on ending border standoff

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2020

SRINAGAR, India Senior Indian and Chinese military commanders are holding talks Monday aimed at resolving a tense monthslong standoff along their disputed border in the mountainous Ladakh region. Details of the talks, held on the Chinese…

India records nearly 87,000 new virus cases

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2020

NEW DELHI India has recorded nearly 87,000 new cases of the coronavirus in the past 24 hours, with another 1,130 deaths. With the Health Ministry announcement Monday, India now has more than 5.4 million reported cases since the pandemic…

8 dead in residential building collapse in India

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 21, 2020

Mumbai,India A residential building that was due for repairs collapsed in central India early Monday, killing at least eight people, officials said. Rescuers were working to find and free the dozens that are feared trapped in the rubble…

India passes farm bills amid protest from opposition parties

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 20, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s parliament on Sunday passed new bills the government says will make it easier for farmers to sell their produce directly to big buyers, despite growing protest from opposition parties and a long-time ally of the ruling…

India’s coronavirus infections surge to 5.4 million

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 20, 2020

MUMBAI India’s coronavirus case tally surged to 5.4 million as it added 92,605 new infections in the last 24 hours, data from the federal health ministry showed on Sunday. The country has posted the highest single-day caseload in the…

India arrests nine al Qaeda militants planning ‘terrorist attacks’

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 19, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Saturday it has arrested nine al Qaeda militants who were planning attacks in several locations including the capital New Delhi. “The group was planning to undertake…

India maintains surge, adds 93,300 new cases

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 19, 2020

NEW DELHI India has maintained its surge in coronavirus cases, adding 93,337 new confirmed infections in the past 24 hours. The Health Ministry on Saturday raised the nation’s caseload to more than 5.3 million out of the nearly 1.4…

Railways in Nepal with History and Future

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 19, 2020

Nepal is a small landlocked country situated in South Asia. It covers an area of 1,47,18 1 sq. km. It is bordered by India in the east, west, and south and also China in the north which are the countries having largest economies in the…

India and China in interesting times

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 18, 2020

Vivek Menezes Much controversy this week, after an odd and conspicuously dubious Newsweek report claimed: “Another brutal purge is coming” in Beijing, because the “People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has unexpectedly flopped” in its Himalayan…

Pakistan summons Indian envoy to protest against ceasefire violations

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 18, 2020

ISLAMABAD Pakistan on Friday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to register a strong protest over Indian occupation forces' ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) on 17th September 2020, resulting in serious injuries to…

Military standoff apart, India, China brace up for cyber-warfare

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 18, 2020

NEW DELHI India is strengthening its capacity to deal with cyber-attacks given growing threats from China and the prospects of algorithmic warfare. Although India’s cyber command under Rear Admiral Mohit Gupta became operational in…

India’s coronavirus cases jump by another 96K

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 18, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s coronavirus cases jumped by another 96,424 infections in the past 24 hours, showing little sign of leveling. The Health Ministry on Friday raised the nation’s total past 5.21 million, 0.37% of its nearly 1.4 billion…

Best Places to Visit in Asia

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 17, 2020

Looking to live like a king or queen on your global adventures? Head to Asia for some top-class budget travels! Asia is the world’s largest continent, home to 48 countries. While some of Asia’s nations, including Japan and Singapore, are…

Pakistan says India wants to spoil Afghan peace process

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 17, 2020

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan A senior Pakistani official and former diplomats accused India on Wednesday of playing the role of a "spoiler" to derail the peace process in Afghanistan. Speaking at a panel discussion on ‘Decoding Indian Foreign…

‘Dissent being implicated’ in India, activists say

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 17, 2020

NEW DELHI A group of activists in India criticized Delhi police for targeting voices speaking against the controversial citizenship law, claiming “the dissent are being implicated” in the country. The group that issued a statement…

Indian forces allegedly thrash journalists in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 16, 2020

Srinagar,India Three photojournalists in the Indian-administered Kashmir were allegedly beaten by government forces while they were covering a gunfight between militants and security forces in the Pulwama district of southern Kashmir,…

India surpasses 5 million coronavirus cases, 82,066 deaths

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 16, 2020

NEW DELHI India’ coronavirus confirmed cases crossed 5 million on Wednesday, still soaring and testing the country’s feeble health care system in tens of thousands of impoverished towns and villages. The Health Ministry reported…

US-India joint statement ‘unreal, unacceptable’: FO

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 16, 2020

ISLAMABAD The Foreign Office Tuesday strongly rejected the joint statement of US–India Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group and Designations Dialogue and found its reference to Pakistan completely ‘unacceptable’ and divorced from ground…

A mutually beneficial relationship

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 16, 2020

India has long been seen as Bangladesh’s staunchest ally, going as far back as Bangladesh’s Liberation War, in which India played a crucial role. To that end, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla’s words which stated that…

COVID-19: India sees slight drop with 83,809 new cases

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 15, 2020

NEW DELHI After recording over 90,000 daily coronavirus cases for the past five days, India on Tuesday saw a slight drop in the daily figures as it registered 83,809 new infections over the last 24 hours. According to the Health…

India bans onion export to Bangladesh

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 15, 2020

The Indian government on Monday banned exports of all types of onions to Bangladesh, citing a shortage in supply in India itself due to heavy rainfall and floods. The ban comes close to a year after India announced its move of not…

Foreign Office summons Indian diplomat over LoC violations

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 15, 2020

ISLAMABAD A senior Indian diplomat on Monday was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to register Pakistan’s strong protest over the ceasefire violations by the Indian occupation forces along the Line of Control (LoC) on Sunday…

India’s Modi faces turbulent session as Parliament reopens

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 14, 2020

NEW DELHI After a five-month absence, Indian lawmakers returned to Parliament on Monday with the government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, the nosediving economy and simmering tensions with China setting the stage for a…

India’s cases cross 4.6M after record surge

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 12, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s confirmed coronavirus tally has crossed 4.6 million after a record surge of 97,570 new cases in 24 hours. India on Saturday also reported another 1,201 deaths, taking total fatalities to 77,472. Infections are…

India adds 96K virus cases, orders some retests

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 11, 2020

NEW DELHI India edged closer to recording nearly 100,000 coronavirus cases in 24 hours as it ordered retesting of many people whose first results were from the less reliable rapid antigen tests being widely used. There were a total of…

India adds 5 French-made fighter jets in military upgrade

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 10, 2020

NEW DELHI The Indian air force inducted into service five French-made Rafale fighter jets Thursday amid heightened tensions with China along their disputed frontier. New Delhi has sent reinforcements of fighter jets and military…

What’s driving India-China military standoff

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 10, 2020

SRINAGAR, India Tensions along the disputed India-China border seem to be getting worse, three months after their deadliest confrontation in decades. The Asian giants accused each other this week of sending soldiers into the other’s…

China says Indian forces crossed border, fired warning shots

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 8, 2020

BEIJING China said Indian forces crossed into territory it holds along their disputed border and fired warning shots at a Chinese patrol in a move it called a “serious military provocation” and a violation of their agreements. The…

India now 2nd behind US in virus cases amid economic pain

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 7, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s increasing coronavirus caseload made the Asian giant the world’s second-worst-hit country behind the United States on Monday, as its efforts to head off economic disaster from the pandemic gain urgency. The 90,802…

Experts warn China-India standoff risks unintentional war

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 6, 2020

SRINAGAR, India As a monthslong military standoff between India and China along their disputed mountain border protracts, experts warn that the nuclear-armed countries — which already have engaged in their bloodiest clash in decades —…

Indian, Chinese defense ministers meet amid border tensions

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 5, 2020

NEW DELHI The defense ministers from India and China have met in the Russian capital as the two sides try to lower tensions along their disputed border in the eastern Ladakh region, where a June clash killed 20 Indian soldiers. At the…

India coronavirus caseload crosses 4M, stretching resources

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 5, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s coronavirus caseload surpassed 4 million on Saturday, deepening misery in the country’s vast hinterlands, where surges have crippled the underfunded health care system. Initially, the virus ravaged India’s sprawling and…

Indian, Chinese Brigadiers hold talks in open area in Chushul

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 3, 2020

Ladakh,India India and China continued to hold talks at Brigadier-level for the fifth day as well after the Indian Army thwarted Chinese Army's attempts to transgress in new areas. However, in an unusual manner, the talks are being held…

China ‘claims’ more territory: Some options for India

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 3, 2020

New Delhi,India A little more than a week ago the India-China border talks hit a roadblock. Despite several rounds of talks at different levels, nothing substantive was achieved, other than a partial disengagement at the three friction…

India eases virus restrictions as cases near 3.7 million

THE ASIA LIVE Sep 1, 2020

NEW DELHI Many Indian states eased lockdown restrictions on Tuesday, allowing more businesses and public areas to reopen to reduce economic pain caused by the coronavirus, even as the country’s new daily infections remain the highest in…

India says China’s military made moves near disputed border

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 31, 2020

SRINAGAR, India India said Monday its soldiers thwarted “provocative” military movements by China’s military near a disputed border in the Ladakh region months into the rival nations’ deadliest standoff in decades. Local military…

Scores injured as police break up Muslim march in Kashmir

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 30, 2020

SRINAGAR, India Indian forces on Saturday fired shotgun pellets and tear gas to disperse hundreds of Shiite Muslims participating in a traditional religious procession in Indian-controlled Kashmir, injuring scores, witnesses said. Police…

Electricity-another factor binding Nepal,India relations

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 29, 2020

Kathmandu,Nepal Nepal and India back in 1971 signed the "Power Exchange Agreement" according to which, both countries have been importing and exporting electricity on the basis of need. Recently, Nepal also signed the Power Trade…

Cross-border petroleum pipeline helps Nepal save freight charges

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 28, 2020

Kathmandu,Nepal The first cross-border petroleum pipeline of South Asia has helped Nepal to save Nepali 2 billion rupees annually in freight charges Nepal earlier has been spending 2 billion rupees as freight expenses to bring the petrol…

India reports record 75,000 new virus infections

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 27, 2020

NEW DELHI India has recorded another single-day record of new coronavirus cases, reporting 75,760 new confirmed infections in the past 24 hours. The Health Ministry on Thursday also reported 1,023 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking total…

Along with train from India, improved lifestyle comes for people of Janakpur Nepal

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 14, 2020

Janakpur,Nepal People of Janakpur are excited as the construction of Janakpur-Jaynagar railway line nears completion, which will improve the lifestyle of the residents here. As the direct rail connection between Nepal's Janakpur and…

South Asia counts losses from devastating monsoon floods

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 14, 2020

DHAKA, Bangladesh When the Dharala River burst its banks in early July, Kamal Hossain left his home with five members of his family to take shelter in a school in northern Bangladesh, carrying their most prized belongings: cattle, a few…

Air India plane skids during landing at Kozhikode airport

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 7, 2020

Kozhikode,India An Air India Express plane carrying 184 passengers including 10 infants, which was coming from Dubai, skidded while landing at Karipur Airport in Kozhikode on Friday evening. Kondotty Police said that Dubai-Kozhikode Air…

Spike in hate crimes against Christians in India

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 6, 2020

Jose Kalathil NEW DELHI: Hate crimes against Christians in India have risen by an alarming 40.87%, in spite of the nation-wide lockdown, says Persecution Relief in its half-yearly Report of 2020 which was released on Wednesday. They Report…

Virus lockdown for world’s smallest and rarest wild pigs

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 6, 2020

NEW DELHI Pygmy hogs — the world’s smallest and rarest wild pig — are under a virus lockdown. Not because of the coronavirus, but because of the first outbreak of African swine fever in India. There is neither a vaccine nor cure for the…

Indian PM lays foundation of temple at razed mosque site

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 5, 2020

AYODHYA, India Despite the coronavirus restricting a large crowd, Hindus rejoiced as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke ground Wednesday on a long-awaited temple of their most revered god Ram at the site of a demolished 16th century…

TIMELINE – Kashmir: A year after annexation

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 5, 2020

NEW DELHI Since Aug. 5, 2019, when India moved to strip special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, it has incorporated several legal changes in the statute book of the region. Here is a timeline of various decisions announced…

India’s coronavirus cases top 1.8 million

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 3, 2020

NEW DELHI The number of confirmed cases in India of the novel coronavirus surpassed 1.8 million Monday, according to data from the Ministry of Health. The tally now stands at 1,803,695 with 38,135 deaths. The chief minister of the…

Many sections of Indian society disapprove Kashmir annexation move

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 2, 2020

SRINAGAR,India Describing Aug. 5, when India annexed Jammu and Kashmir region, a day of “betrayal” and “blackest day”, a pro-India Kashmiri politician said people were seething with anger against the move. A member of Indian parliament,…

Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan recovers from coronavirus

THE ASIA LIVE Aug 2, 2020

NEW DELHI Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan was discharged from a Mumbai hospital on Sunday after undergoing three weeks of treatment for the coronavirus. His actor son, Abhishek Bachchan, who is still in the Nanavati Super Speciality…

Border troops have disengaged in most localities, situation de-escalating on ground: Chinese…

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 30, 2020

New Delhi,India Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Weidong on Thursday said that border troops have disengaged in "most localities" along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the situation on the ground is de-escalating and the "temperature is…

India virus cases hit 1.5 million, but slum study casts doubt on official data

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 29, 2020

New Delhi, India Coronavirus infections in India passed 1.5 million and deaths neared 35,000 on Wednesday, but test results in Mumbai cast further doubt on official data in the world's second-most populous nation. Even as case numbers…

India: Death toll rises to 89 in Assam floods

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 23, 2020

NEW DELHI Nearly 90 people have died in floods in 26 districts in the northeastern state of Assam, the state’s disaster management authority (SDMA) said Thursday. SDMA said two news deaths occurred and through July 22, the death toll…

India sees growing black market for plasma from recovered patients

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 20, 2020

New Delhi, India When Mr Adwitiya Mal's father-in-law was diagnosed with COVID-19 at a hospital in Delhi, doctors advised plasma therapy, given his worsening condition. A "roller coaster of emotions" ensued for the family as they began a…

Virus rebounds around the world, deaths top 600,000

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 19, 2020

BERLIN The coronavirus pandemic has found fresh legs around the world, as confirmed deaths pass 600,000 and countries from the U.S. to South Africa to India struggle to contain a surge of new infections. Hong Kong issued tougher new rules…

US Ambassador to India meets representatives of Dalai Lama

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 18, 2020

New Delhi,India US Ambassador to India, Ken Juster, on Saturday said he met Ngodup-la, Representative of Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Delhi and Secretary Gyalpo. "Our close cooperation with the Office of HH the Dalai Lama…

Breathtaking virus numbers show normal life still far away

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 18, 2020

JOHANNESBURG South Africa was poised on Saturday to join the top five countries most affected by the coronavirus, while breathtaking numbers around the world were a reminder a return to normal life is still far from sight. Confirmed virus…

India, Taiwan relations expected to get a boost

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 16, 2020

Jose Kalathil New Delhi Diplomatic billiards often matter more than normal and formal dialogues and geo-strategic discussions. The decision of the Taiwanese leadership - President Tsai Ing-wen - to appoint Ambassador Chung-Kwang Tien,…

Indian leader’s virus fund won’t disclose donors, payments

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 14, 2020

NEW DELHI Bejon Misra responded quickly to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal in March for donations to a new fund to strengthen the country’s fight against the coronavirus. The next day, the 69-year-old retired management…

Disengagement process between India, China troops completed at Patrolling Point 15, Chinese move…

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 8, 2020

New Delhi,India The disengagement process between troops of India and China was completed on Wednesday at Patrolling Point 15 and the Chinese troops have moved back by approximately 2 kilometres, according to Indian Army sources.…

Dalai Lama channels ‘Inner World’ in album to mark 85th birthday

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 7, 2020

New Delhi Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama launched an assault on the music charts on Monday by releasing his first album to mark his 85th birthday. "Inner World", in which the Dalai Lama chants meditations and Buddhist sayings,…

India becomes 3rd worst virus-hit country, cases near 700K

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 6, 2020

NEW DELHI India on Sunday became the third worst virus-hit country in the number of coronavirus cases after the US and Brazil. India registered 24,248 positive cases in the last 24 hours taking the tally to 697,413, according to the…

‘NSA Ajit Doval monitoring border situation; standoff expected to be resolved amicably…

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 6, 2020

New Delhi,India National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is monitoring the India and China border situation continuously with the Indian Army and the standoff between the troops of two countries is expected to be resolved amicably soon,…

Royal Bengal tiger dies of heart failure at Hyderabad Zoo

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 5, 2020

Hyderabad,India A Royal Bengal tiger at Nehru Zoological Park (NZP) in Hyderabad has died of heart failure, a forest official said on Sunday. According to the official, the 11-year-old male tiger named Kadamba died on Saturday night. As…

India to reopen Taj Mahal with social distancing, masks

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 5, 2020

New Delhi Visitors to the Taj Mahal will have to wear masks at all times, keep their distance and not touch its glistening marble surfaces when India's 17th-century monument to love reopens on Monday after a three-month COVID-19 shutdown.…

Earthquake tremors felt in Delhi, nearby areas Noida, Ghaziabad

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 3, 2020

New Delhi,India The national capital on Friday was jolted by tremors of an earthquake. In July, Delhi was hit with a quake for the first time this year. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake of magnitude 4.5 had…

Modi visits Ladakh where ‘violent face-off’ with Chinese troops took place

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 3, 2020

SRINAGAR,India Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew into the Ladakh on Friday, officials said, weeks after Indian and Chinese troops clashed in the valley leading to a escalation of tension. Modi, who has been under pressure to…

Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan dies at 71

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 3, 2020

NEW DELHI Saroj Khan, a top Bollywood choreographer, died of cardiac arrest in a Mumbai hospital early Friday, her family said. She was 71. The three-time National Award winner was hospitalized last Saturday after she complained of…

Expect China to sincerely follow up, ensure expeditious restoration of peace in border areas

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 2, 2020

New Delhi,India India said on Thursday that meetings will continue with China at military and diplomatic levels to resolve border issues to mutual satisfaction and hoped Beijing will sincerely follow up and ensure expeditious restoration…

China accuses India of targeting Chinese imports after clash

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 2, 2020

BEIJING China accused India on Thursday of improperly disrupting activity by Chinese companies in the midst of tensions over a border clash. Asked about news reports that both countries were tightening import controls, a Commerce Ministry…

Coronavirus claims over 500 more lives in India

THE ASIA LIVE Jul 1, 2020

NEW DELHI India reported 507 new deaths and more than 18,653 coronavirus infections on Wednesday. According to the Health Ministry, the new fatalities recorded over the past 24 hours pushed the death toll up to 17,400, as the total number…

Pakistan rejects Kashmir citizenship for Indians

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 28, 2020

KARACHI, Pakistan Pakistan rejected the granting of domicile certificates to thousands of Indian nationals Saturday in Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir, characterizing it as an attempt to change the demographic structure of the disputed…

China sent martial artists, mountain climbers to India border before Ladakh clash

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 28, 2020

China's state media reported that it reinforced its troops at the Ladakh border with martial arts fighters and mountain climbers, before the deadly clash between Chinese and Indian troops that saw 20 Indian soldiers killed and others…

Satellite images show buildup on disputed India-China border

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 28, 2020

BEIJING Construction activity appeared underway on both the Indian and Chinese sides of a contested border high in the Karakoram mountains a week after a deadly clash in the area left 20 Indian soldiers dead, satellite images showed. The…

Swarm of locusts reaches Nepal

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 27, 2020

Kathmandu,Nepal Nepal government said Saturday that the locust swarm has entered the country from its southern border with India. Nepal's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development confirmed the entry of the locusts in a statement…

China-India border clashes and US strategy in Indo-Pacific

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 27, 2020

India, perceived as a pivot to the US policy of containing China, appears to be on the horns of strategic dilemma both regionally and globally. While it is weighing the costs of conflict to its economy as its army is engaged in a standoff…

Tension on Sino-Indian Border ‘is not over’

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 26, 2020

Hong Kong China's and India's border dispute in Ladakh shockingly spilled over into savage hand-to-hand combat better befitting a Middle Ages scene on 15 June. Yet that bloody confrontation is best viewed within the context of wider…

New Delhi’s rising cases prompt mass survey

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 25, 2020

NEW DELHI India has counted another record daily high in new virus cases as New Delhi grew to its worst-hit city. India registered 16,922 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the national total to 473,105. The Health Ministry on Thursday…

India: Anti-citizenship protester released on bail

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 23, 2020

New Delhi,India An Indian court on Tuesday granted bail to Safoora Zargar, an anti-citizenship law protester whose arrest made headlines worldwide. Her bail plea was heard by the Delhi High Court in India’s capital, and the police said…

China, India agree to disengage forces after deadly clash

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 23, 2020

BEIJING Chinese and Indian military commanders have agreed to disengage their forces in a disputed area of the Himalayas following a clash that left at least 20 soldiers dead, both countries said Tuesday. The commanders reached the…

India, China Corps Commanders hold talks for nearly 11 hours

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 23, 2020

New Delhi,India The meeting between Indian Army's 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh and his Chinese counterpart got over after around 11 hours, sources said. "Today's meeting between the Corps Commander-level officers of India and…

Pakistan says India has become a threat to region’s stability

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 22, 2020

Islamabad,Pakistan Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Monday that the world has started realizing that India has become a threat to the stability of the region. “India wants to suppress the Kashmiri people’s movement…

Military standoffs apart, Chinese investments roar in India

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 22, 2020

New Delhi,India Amid the clamor to boycott Chinese goods and cut trade ties, in the wake of the killing of its 20 soldiers in a border clash, experts in India have warned that it will inflict more damage to the country itself. Out of $92…

Coronavirus lockdowns increase poaching in Asia, Africa

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 22, 2020

NEW DELHI A camera trap photo of an injured tigress and a forensic examination of its carcass revealed why the creature died: a poacher’s wire snare punctured its windpipe and sapped its strength as the wound festered for days. Snares…

Gay Indian comic busts biases without judgment

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 21, 2020

Mumbai, India Indian stand-up comic Vasu Primlani does not shy away from her sexuality in her gigs - even though until very recently, being gay put her at odds with the law. One popular joke starts with the question she says many LGBT+…

IAF chief says India has detected unusual activity by China’s air force at Ladakh

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 21, 2020

India claims to have detected unusual movement by the China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) at Ladakh, claimed the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Sunday. Speaking at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad…

China claims valley where Indian, Chinese soldiers brawled

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 20, 2020

NEW DELHI China said the Galwan Valley high up in the Himalayan border region where Chinese and Indian troops engaged in a deadly brawl this week falls entirely within China, boldly laying claim to the disputed area as the Asian giants…

India’s prime minister to meet with opposition on China row

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s prime minister is meeting top opposition leaders Friday as the government tries to lower tensions with China after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash in a Himalayan border region. India and China accuse each other…

India-China Himalayan standoff deadly for cashmere herds

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2020

SRINAGAR, India Antagonisms between Indian and Chinese troops high in the Himalayas are taking a dire toll on traditional goat herds that supply the world’s finest, most expensive cashmere. This week, a deadly brawl between Indian and…

India seeks eased tensions with China after Himalayas clash

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2020

NEW DELHI India said Thursday it was using diplomatic channels with China to de-escalate a military standoff in a remote Himalayan border region where 20 Indian soldiers were killed this week. Responding to China’s claim to the disputed…

India: No soldier missing after border clash with China

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 19, 2020

NEW DELHI India has said none of its soldiers involved in the deadly border clash with China are unaccounted for. "It is clarified that there are no Indian troops missing in action," the Indian Army said in a brief statement late on…

India can face military pressure from China, Pakistan, and Nepal

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 18, 2020

If the tensions in eastern Ladakh escalate then India can face military pressure from three sides; China, Pakistan and Nepal, according to a Chinese foreign affairs. Hu Zhiyong, who is a Research Fellow at Shanghai Academy of Social…

Major General level talks to be held between India-China today

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 18, 2020

New Delhi,India Major General level talks between India and China will be held today at 10:30 am to resolve the issues related to the violent face-off in Galwan area on June 15-16, according to sources in the Army. Earlier yesterday the…

India cautions China against untenable sovereignty claims

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 18, 2020

NEW DELHI India on Thursday cautioned China against making “exaggerated and untenable claims” on the sovereignty of the Galvan Valley area even as both nations tried to end a standoff in the high Himalayan region where their armies engaged…

China, India disavow clash but pledge to end border standoff

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2020

BEIJING China and India accused each other Wednesday of instigating deadly border clashes between their forces along the disputed Himalayan frontier, pledging to safeguard their territory but also to try to end a standoff that has…

India to ‘reimagine’ streets for walkers, cyclists after coronavirus

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2020

India will make its streets and markets more accessible to pedestrians and cyclists as it emerges from one of the world's strictest coronavirus lockdowns, a move urgently needed to curb pollution and improve livability, urban experts said.…

Fatal clash in the Himalayas ups ante for China and India

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2020

NEW DELHI India and China sought Wednesday to de-escalate tensions after flexing their muscles in a fatal clash along a disputed border high in the Himalayas that left 20 Indian soldiers dead. The skirmish Monday in the desolate alpine…

Why are Chinese and Indian troops fighting in a remote Himalayan valley?

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2020

New Delhi, India The Indian army has said at least 20 of its soldiers were killed after hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops at a disputed border site on Monday night, in the deadliest clash between the two Asian giants in decades.…

China demands India punish those behind deadly clashes

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 17, 2020

BEIJING China’s foreign minister demanded Wednesday that India punish those behind deadly border clashes between their forces this week, and warned New Delhi not to underestimate Beijing’s determination to safeguard what it considers its…

India, China continue Army talks in Galwan area, Hot Springs

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 15, 2020

New Delhi,India Looking to resolve the dispute over Chinese military buildup India and China are holding talks at the Brigade Commander and Battalion Commander level in Eastern Ladakh in Galwan valley area and Hot Springs. Army…

India no longer ‘weak’, says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh amid tensions with China

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 14, 2020

New Delhi,India Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Sunday the country will no longer compromise on its " national pride" and that the country was not 'weak' anymore, as its border tensions with China continue to rise. Singh, while…

India sees record 11,458 COVID-19 cases in one day

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 13, 2020

NEW DELHI India on Saturday crossed the 300,000 mark by registering the highest single-day spike of 11,458 new coronavirus cases, while the death toll climbed to 8,884 with 386 new fatalities, according to the Health Ministry. The total…

China border situation under control: Indian army chief

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 13, 2020

NEW DELHI, India A day after talks at the major general-level, India’s army chief on Saturday said the situation at the Indo-China border is under control. Speaking to the media, Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane said that the meetings have…

Lucknow Zoo welcomes new inmate, a baby Sarus crane

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 13, 2020

Lucknow,India Amidst the gloom caused by the Corona pandemic, a newborn Sarus crane has brought some cheer for Lucknow Zoo and has become an attraction for visitors. "Many birds lay eggs here regularly, Sarus Crane gave birth to a baby…

Anger ensues as India hunts anti-citizenship law protesters amid pandemic

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 12, 2020

NEW DELHI A group of students protesting a controversial citizenship law in India accused the government of continuing to "witch-hunt" although the country is being enmeshed in COVID-19 pandemic. Organizer of the protest against the law…

‘Ticking time bomb:’ Lack of beds slows Delhi’s virus fight

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 12, 2020

NEW DELHI In New Delhi, a sprawling capital region of 46 million and home to some of India’s highest concentration of hospitals, a pregnant woman’s death after a frantic hunt for a sickbed was a worrying sign about the country’s ability to…

India, China maintaining military, diplomatic engagements to peacefully resolve border issue: MEA

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 12, 2020

New Delhi,India The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said that both India and China are involved in military and diplomatic engagements to ensure peace and tranquillity in the border areas. "Both sides are maintaining their…

Thousands more evacuated from site of Indian oil-well blast

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 11, 2020

Tinsukia, India Around 7,000 people have been evacuated from the surrounds of a deadly oil-well explosion in northeast India, authorities said Thursday, as environmentalists warned local wildlife was being hit by contamination. Oil India…

How Covid-19 lockdown affecting India’s households

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 11, 2020

NEW DELHI Amid a gradual reopening of its economy, India has extended its nationwide lockdown in containment zones – areas where people have tested positive for COVID-19 – through June 30. The wisdom of even a phased reopening in select…

India: 2 elephants found dead within two days in Chhattisgarh’s Surajpur district

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 11, 2020

Surajpur,India In a shocking turn of events, two elephants passed away, including a pregnant one, on consecutive days in Pratappur area of Surajpur district. A female elephant's carcass was found in Ganeshpur forest of Chhattisgarh's…

Impasse with Nepal has strained ties, should be addressed urgently: Congress

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 11, 2020

New Delhi,India Congress leader Anand Sharma on Wednesday said that recent developments in India-Nepal relations and "dispute over the Kalapani-Lipulekh area" following the publication of a new map by Nepal depicting the area as Nepalese…

India economy in ‘dire’ straits as coronavirus lockdown slashes incomes drastically:…

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 10, 2020

The Indian economy is in "dire" straits as a lockdown to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus has led to a whopping majority of households experiencing slashed incomes, a report has indicated. The report by the University of…

India, China hold Major General-level talks as discussions continue on Eastern Ladakh standoff

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 10, 2020

New Delhi,India After talks between military commanders, India and China on Wednesday held the Major General-level talks to find a resolution to the ongoing dispute in Eastern Ladakh. India and China have decided to hold military talks at…

Pakistan summons senior Indian diplomat over ceasefire violations

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 10, 2020

Islamabad Pakistan on Wednesday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to register a "strong protest" over the June 9 ceasefire violations that injured four civilians in the Jandrot Sector of the Line of Control (LoC). According to a statement…

India wants China to de-induct its 10,000 troops, heavy weapons deployed along the LAC

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 10, 2020

New Delhi,India Even though troops of India and China have disengaged at three locations in Eastern Ladakh, the Indian side is clear that the tensions on the borders would be done away completely only when the People's Liberation Army…

Nepal calls again for border talks with India

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 10, 2020

KATHMANDU, Nepal Nepal’s foreign minister said Tuesday that the country was still waiting for a response from India on holding talks to resolve a border dispute that has strained relations between the South Asian neighbors. Foreign…

China captures over 60sq km area

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 9, 2020

Indian government experts have conservatively estimated that China has captured more than 60 square kilometres of Indian-patrolled territory in the last month action in Ladakh, while the advancing posturing of Chinese troops is still…

New Delhi lifts order that limited hospital beds

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 9, 2020

NEW DELHI New Delhi has reversed orders that limited the scope of coronavirus testing and reserved hospital beds for city residents as the Indian capital’s caseload continues to surge. The city’s numbers of infected jumped to 29,943 on…

India, China agree not to turn ‘differences into disputes’: Chinese Foreign Ministry on…

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2020

New Delhi,India India and China have agreed not to turn their differences into disputes and maintain close communication on resolving border issues through diplomatic and military channels, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua…

India’s western state surpasses China’s COVID-19 tally

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2020

NEW DELHI India’s western state of Maharashtra has now more coronavirus cases than that in China, official data revealed on Monday. Maharashtra has the highest number of coronavirus cases in the country, with 85,975 cases. According to…

Positive India-China border talks helped to prevent another ‘Doklam’: Chinese mouthpiece

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2020

Beijing Positive discussions over the ongoing border issues at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during the commander-level talks between the Indian and Chinese military over this weekend prevented another Doklam like crisis according to…

First special flight with hundreds of Chinese nationals departs from India: Report

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 8, 2020

New Delhi The first special flight with hundreds of stranded Chinese nationals departed from India on Monday morning, Chinese state media reported. Four more chartered flights taking Chinese nationals back home will depart from India in…

Kashmir: 5 militants killed in gunfight

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2020

SRINAGAR,India Five militants were killed in Indian-administered Kashmir on Sunday following a gunfight with government forces, police said. The regional police, Indian Army's 55 Rashtriya Rifles and 183 Battalion of paramilitary forces…

India, China agree to peacefully resolve border issue: MEA

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2020

New Delhi A day after India and China military commanders held "cordial and positive" talks at Chushul-Moldo point along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh, Ministry of External Affairs said the two countries have agreed to…

India-Nepal diplomatic row likely to escalate, no talks soon

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2020

New Delhi Nepal has reportedly sought foreign secretary-level talks with India via video conferencing. However, it seems unlikely that India will agree at this stage when the Himalayan nation is all set to pass the Second Constitution…

India sees 10,000 new cases ahead of reopenings

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 7, 2020

NEW DELHI India reported 9,971 new coronavirus cases on Sunday in another biggest single-day spike, a day before it prepares to reopen shopping malls, hotels and religious places after a 10-week lockdown. India has now surpassed Spain as…

India reports biggest single-day spike in cases

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 6, 2020

NEW DELHI India surpassed Italy as the sixth worst-hit by the coronavirus pandemic after another biggest single-day spike in confirmed infections. The Health Ministry reported 9,887 new cases on Saturday, bringing the total to 236,657.…

Pakistan rejects India’s ‘distortion, falsification’ of facts from UN’s…

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 5, 2020

Islamabad Pakistan on Thursday categorically rejected Indian foreign ministry's "distortion and falsification of the contents" of a United Nations' report on the Taliban and situation in Afghanistan. In a statement issued Thursday, the…

Indo-Pacific figures prominently in discussions between PM Modi, Scott Morrison

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 5, 2020

New Delhi The Indo-Pacific figured prominently during discussions in the first virtual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison with the two countries also deciding on a joint declaration on…

Pakistan, India coronavirus cases, deaths spike

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 4, 2020

Pakistan reported a record single-day spike in coronavirus-related deaths with 82 new fatalities and 4,688 cases that it says resulted from increased testing in the past 24 hours. Pakistan’s outbreak has grown steadily since the country’s…

Kashmiris demand stimulus package for crippled economy

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 3, 2020

SRINAGAR,India Dozens of trade bodies in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday demanded a stimulus package for the revival of businesses in the disputed Himalayan region. At a news conference in the capital Srinagar on…

Sundarbans devastated by cyclone, as virus halts migration

THE ASIA LIVE Jun 2, 2020

NEW DELHI The powerful cyclone that struck India and Bangladesh last month passed through the vast mangrove forests of the Sundarban delta, a UNESCO world heritage site. The mangroves dissipated some of Cyclone Amphan’s energy, shielding…

Link between virus, Chinese incursions: Indian military experts

THE ASIA LIVE May 31, 2020

NEW DELHI, India Indian military experts say there was a link between China’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its latest military incursions into the Ladakh region, resulting in a face-off between the armies. “Globally, China is…

India’s ‘pride’ will be defended in new China border flareup: Defence Minister

THE ASIA LIVE May 31, 2020

New Delhi India will not let its "pride be hurt" in its latest border flareups with China but is determined to settle the dispute through talks between the giant neighbours, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said. Singh also said in a…

Monkeys steal coronavirus blood samples in India

THE ASIA LIVE May 31, 2020

Lucknow, India A troop of monkeys in India attacked a medical official and snatched away blood samples of patients who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, authorities said on Friday. The attack occurred this week when a…

EU HR panel slams India for arresting human rights activists

THE ASIA LIVE May 31, 2020

BRUSSELS The chairperson of the Subcommittee of Human Rights of the European Parliament, in a letter to Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, has condemned the arrest of human rights defenders under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. In…

Nepal map row: Nepali Congress to vote in favour of amendment proposal

THE ASIA LIVE May 30, 2020

Lalitpur,Nepal Nepal's principal opposition party, Nepali Congress (NC), has decided to support the amendment proposal to include an updated map in its constitution. The party's Central Working Committee, which met on Saturday, decided to…

Earthquake tremors felt in Delhi

THE ASIA LIVE May 29, 2020

New Delhi An earthquake of magnitude 4.6 struck near Delhi on Friday, prompting people to rush out of their homes. The epicentre of the earthquake was near Rohtak in Haryana, according to India's National Center for Seismology. The…

What’s behind latest India-China border tension

THE ASIA LIVE May 29, 2020

NEW DELHI Tensions along the China-India border high in the Himalayas have flared again in recent weeks. Indian officials say the latest row began in early May, when Chinese soldiers entered the Indian-controlled territory of Ladakh at…

Virus, heat wave and locusts form perfect storm in India

THE ASIA LIVE May 28, 2020

NEW DELHI As if the coronavirus wasn’t enough, India grappled with scorching temperatures and the worst locust invasion in decades as authorities prepared for the end of a monthslong lockdown despite recording thousands of new infections…

India extends Jammu-Kashmir internet ban until June 17

THE ASIA LIVE May 28, 2020

SRINAGAR,India The ban on high-speed internet in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir has been extended until June 17. According to a government order made Wednesday night, the decision to limit internet connectivity in the disputed…

Amid COVID-19, locust attack risks famine in Pakistan, India

THE ASIA LIVE May 28, 2020

KARACHI, Pakistan Still reeling under the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, another severe crisis is staring at Pakistan and India, one with the potential to impact their food security. Swarms of locusts -- short-horned grasshoppers --…

India, China in tense standoff at Himalayan frontier

THE ASIA LIVE May 27, 2020

SRINAGAR, India Indian and Chinese soldiers are in a bitter standoff in the remote and picturesque Ladakh region, with the two countries amassing soldiers and machinery near the tense frontier, Indian officials said. The standoff began in…

WHO urged to seek end to internet shutdown in South Asia

THE ASIA LIVE May 27, 2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been urged to “publicly denounce the use of internet shutdowns as a hindrance” to its mission and urge governments to allow internet use to aid the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. In a joint…