Author: Shivali Varshney, Vidhyarthi Darpan

NATIONAL NEWS 

Say sorry if you want to return to Rajya Sabha, Piyush Goyal tells 12 Opposition MPs 

Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha Piyush Goyal said on Tuesday that if the 12 suspended members were to apologise, they could return to the House. Earlier in the day, the Opposition staged a walkout and stayed away from the proceedings. The suspended MPs will hold a sit-in at the Gandhi statue on the Parliament premises till the end of the winter session.  The government, striking a conciliatory note, did not take up the listed legislative business of the Dam Safety Bill in the absence of the Opposition. Soon after the House was convened for the day, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge pointed out that on technical grounds the suspension was illegal. The members were suspended for their alleged misconduct on August 11 in the monsoon session, under Rule 256 of the House. Kharge stated that the two parameters essential under the rules were ignored. First, the Chairman had to name a member, if he was of the view that the member had disregarded the authority of the Chair or abused the rules of the Council by persistently and willfully obstructing the business of the House. Only after the member is named, can a motion be made to suspend them. More importantly, this procedure is relevant only on the date of occurrence of the alleged disregard or disorderly conduct of a member, he observed.  Bringing forward a motion to suspend the members months after the day of occurrence of alleged disorderly conduct is not in order. This unprecedented and undemocratic act is a blatant violation of the rules, he said. He requested Chairman Venkaiah Naidu to revoke the suspension, which the latter rejected outright.  

Omicron doesn’t escape RTPCR, RAT, says Health Ministry  

COVID-19 variant Omicron doesn’t escape RTPCR (reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction) test and Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday. It instructed the States to ramp up testing for prompt and early identification of any cases.  States are advised for target/prioritised testing of passengers from the not at-risk countries also as part of the ramped up testing by the states, said a Ministry release.  The instructions followed Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan’s virtual meeting with the States/UTs to review COVID-19 public health response measures and preparedness amid reports of Omicron cases across various countries.  The Ministry pointed to the critical role of vaccination as a powerful defence against COVID-19, the extension of the Har Ghar Dastak campaign till December 31 with focus on 100% first dose coverage, and the completion of backlog of second dose. The States have been advised to ramp up the pace and coverage of vaccination.  Meanwhile, Union Health minister Mansukh Mandaviya informed Parliament on Tuesday that the Omicron variant has not been reported in India yet, He said that while the variant has been found in 14 countries so far there is no case in India. Students of Gurukul Art school paint posters in the wake of rising Omicron variant of coronavirus at Lalbaug, Maharashtra on November 29, 2021.   The Minister also noted that the Central Government has issued an advisory based on global developments related to the new variant and is keeping a keen watch on all entry points.  Speaking during the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister added that studies are being conducted on the Omicron and said that all precautionary measures have been put in place in India.  

India’s GDP growth at 8.4 % in July-Sept  

India’s economic growth slowed to 8.4 % in the second quarter of 2021-22, mainly due to waning low base effect, official data showed on Tuesday. The GDP growth in April-June quarter this fiscal stood at 20.1 %. The Indian economy had contracted by 24.4 % in April-June last year.  The gross domestic product (GDP) had contracted by 7.4 % in the corresponding July-September quarter of 2020-21, according to data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).  GDP at Constant (2011-12) Prices in April-September 2021-22 (H1 2021-22) is estimated at ₹ 68.11 lakh crore as against ₹ 59.92 lakh crore during the corresponding period of previous year, showing a growth of 13.7 % in H1 2021-22 as against a contraction of 15.9 % during the same period last year, it stated.  The government had imposed a nationwide lockdown at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year. China has recorded a growth of 4.9 % in the July-September period of 2021.  

Mayawati rules out talks with Bhim Army  

There was no question of talks with Bhim Army leader Chandrashekhar Azad for the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, BSP chief Mayawati asserted on Tuesday.  Responding to questions, she reiterated that the BSP would contest all 403 seats alone.  Asked by a journalist what she thought of Azad’s visit to Lucknow where he stated that he would try and talk to leaders of other parties, including her, for possible alliances, Mayawati sounded dismissive.  When I have told you that BSP will fight alone on its own strength, then such a question does not arise, Mayawati said at a press conference.  Azad, who belongs to the same Dalit sub-caste as Mayawati, Jatav, has shown interest in next year’s Assembly election, sparking speculation on the likely impact on the already depleted BSP.  Mayawati also said that if voted to power for the fifth time, her government would take care of the interests and welfare of Jats, Muslims and the most-backward communities. She accused the BJP government of bringing in new rules and laws, and often taking the support of courts, to make the provisions of reservation ineffective.  The BSP chief said Muslims were being harassed by the BJP government through false cases and that terror was being created among the community through new rules and laws.  At all levels, Muslims are despondent and their progress has come to a halt, she said after holding a meeting of party office-bearers belonging to the Jat, Muslim and MBC communities.  

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

British Tennis Player Johanna Konta announced retirement

Tennis player Johanna Konta from Britain has announced her retirement saying that her career has come to an end. The former World No. 4 further said that she was fortunate to live her dream of playing professional tennis. As per the Women’s Tennis Association, Johanna Konta was a four-time WTA Champion. Her biggest title came at the Miami Open in 2017, where she defeated Venus Williams, Simona Halep, and Caroline Wozniacki. The talented player also lifted the trophies at Stanford 2016, Sydney 2017, and Nottingham 2021.  Johanna Konta was twice a WTA 1000 runner-up, at Beijing 2016 and Rome 2019.

China to hold 2022 Winter Olympics despite Omicron concerns

 China has announced that it will successfully hold the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 on schedule despite the worldwide concern of the Omicron Covid variant. The Winter Olympics 2022 is scheduled for February 4-20, 2022. The Foreign Ministry Spokesperson of China Zhao Lijian said that China is experienced in preventing and spread of COVID-19 and the winter Olympics will be held. The new COVID-19 variant Omicron has been named the ‘Variant of Concern’ by the World Health Organisation. The virus was first detected in South Africa. The global health body has also warned against the virus. WHO has also urged the member states to increase the surveillance to understand various variants and to increase the community testing.

World’s most expensive cities list: Tel Aviv ranked world’s costliest city.

World’s most expensive city: Tel Aviv has become the world’s most expensive city to live in, surpassing Paris and Singapore as per the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Worldwide Cost of Living Index 2021. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Tel Aviv climbed from 5th place to the top in 2021 due to the rising value of the Israeli currency shekel against US Dollar and the increase in the price of grocery and transport. While Tel Aviv has topped the Cost of Living Index 2021, Paris and Singapore are jointly ranked second, followed by Zurich and Hong Kong at the fourth and fifth spots. Syria’s Damascus was ranked as the world’s cheapest city. The Worldwide Cost of Living Index examines the cost of living in 173 cities and measures against impactful global events. The cost of living index reported that the prices for goods and services on average have risen by 3.5% year-on-year, which is the highest inflation rate seen in the last five years.  The Cost of Living 2021 Index has ranked Israel’s Tel Aviv at the top for the first time, making it the world’s most expensive city to live in. Tel Aviv has pushed Paris down to jointly share second place with Singapore. Paris, Zurich and Hong Kong were ranked at the top of Cost of Living Index last year. The cost of the living study is conducted twice a year by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

 

NATIONAL NEWS 

Delhi CM holds meeting with officials on Omicron variant

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal held a meeting with the officials on the Omicron variant on November 30, 2021. He informed after the meeting that while they hope Omicron doesn’t come to India, but they need to be prepared as responsible governments. The Chief Minister informed that as far as the beds are concerned, the state has prepared around 30,000 oxygen beds, which include 10,000 ICU beds. He also informed that by combining all hospitals in Delhi, Delhi has around 750 MT oxygen capacity. He said that an extra storage capacity of 442 MT is also being prepared. 

Noted Telugu lyricist Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry passes away Noted Telugu lyricist Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry passed away on November 30, 2021. He was undergoing treatment for lung cancer. He was 66. The hospital authorities revealed in a statement that the veteran lyricist, aged 66, passed away due to lung cancer-related complications. The Padma Shri awardee had been hospitalized for lung-related ailments on November 24th at KIMS Hospital Secunderabad. Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry has written lyrics for over 3,000 songs till 2020. He had received the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for his contributions in the field of arts and aesthetics.

PM Modi to inaugurate FinTech leadership forum on December 3

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate a leadership Forum on Financial Technology (FinTech) on December 3, 2021. The forum will focus on the theme of ‘Beyond’; with various sub-themes. The forum aims to bring together leading minds of the world in business, policy, and technology to discuss and come up with innovative ideas that can be leveraged by the FinTech industry for inclusive growth. The forum will witness participation by almost 70 countries and leading industrial figures including Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani and Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp. Masayoshi Son.  

Home Affairs Ministry extends Covid containment measures till December 31st

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on November 30, 2021, extended the validity of Covid containment measures till December 31, 2021, in view of the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant- Omicron. The Home Minister has directed the state governments to take proactive containment measures. The MHA order was issued by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla to all states and union territories. The MHA order has been sent to the chief secretaries of all states and it directs the states to ensure rigorous screening and testing at all international arrivals. The contacts will also be closely tracked and tested.

Advanced Israeli Heron drones received by the Indian Army

Israeli Heron drones have been received by the Indian Army after a delay of a few months because of the Coronavirus pandemic. The new Heron drones from Israel are far more advanced than the Heron drones that the Indian Army already has. They have also been operational in the Ladakh region.

Vice Admiral Hari Kumar takes charge as Chief of Naval Staff

Vice Admiral Hari Kumar has taken the charge as the Chief of Naval Staff, he also received Guard of Honour. The Defence Ministry had earlier announced on November 9 that Hari Kumar will be the new Chief of the Indian Navy. He replaced Admiral Karambir Singh who has retired.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

World AIDS Day to be observed on December 1st

World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1st to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS. The day has become one of the most widely recognized international health days. World AIDS Day aims to raise awareness about the disease and commemorate those who have passed away due to it and celebrate victories in the field such as increased access to treatment and prevention services. The day aims to spread correct information such as the fact that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a contagious virus that leads to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Many people confuse the terms and consider both as synonymous but they are not. AIDS is the last stage of the HIV virus. HIV patients can prevent AIDS by taking HIV medication regularly. The day also throws emphasis on the fact that HIV cannot be spread by touch, cough or handshake or sharing food with the HIV-infected person. It can only spread through unprotected sexual contact with a person or infected needles and infected blood.

Lionel Messi wins Ballon d’Or Award 2021

Men’s Ballon d’Or award 2021 has been won by Lionel Messi for the record 7th time. Alexis Putellas from Spain has won the Ballon d’Or award for women for the first time. The 34-years old Argentinian footballer player Messi has won over another favourite Robert Lewandowski. The award is one of the most prestigious individual awards in football.

Barbados declared Republic after 400 years

Caribbean Nation, Barbados has formed a Republic by ditching Queen Elizabeth of Britain as the Head of the State. With this move, the island nation has severed the last-remaining colonial bonds with Britain. The country has transitioned to the Parliamentary Republic with President as Head of the State.

NATIONAL NEWS 

Opposition raises multiple issues at all-party gathering before Parliament session, PM skips the meeting 

The joint Opposition Sunday demanded the formal repeal of the three contentious farm laws and a legislation to guarantee Minimum Support Price (MSP), as it raised a host of issues, including price rise and the coronavirus management, at an all-party meeting convened by the government ahead of the winter session of Parliament.  Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said around 15 issues were raised during the meeting which was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He said the Opposition expected Prime Minister Narendra Modi to head the meeting and address the issues, but he skipped it.  The winter session of Parliament starts Monday and will continue till December 23. Leaders of 30 political parties attended the meeting, where they raised various issues, including farmers’ problems, alleged Chinese incursions, Covid preparation and past mismanagement, inflation, high fuel prices, unemployment, the state of the economy, and the extension of the BSF’s jurisdiction in border states.  The issues of Pegasus spyware and women’s reservation were also raised, with some parties demanding a discussion on them.  The opposition leaders raised a number of issues during the meeting and urged the government to actively do something in this regard. We expected that the prime minister would attend the meeting and answer our issues. But, the PM did not come to the meeting, Kharge told PTI after the meeting.  

Omicron variant: Operationalise ample testing infrastructure to tackle any surge: Health Ministry  

Cautioning that overall testing and the proportion of RT-PCR tests have declined in some States, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan on Sunday directed that ample testing infrastructure needs to be operationalised to tackle any surge due to Omicron, the mutated COVID virus.  The Ministry has written to the State Governments stating that in the absence of sufficient testing, it is extremely difficult to determine the true level of infection spread.  A health worker collects swab samples of a vendor for COVID-19 testing at a market in the wake of spike in coronavirus cases, in Jammu on November 28, 2021.   States must strengthen the testing infrastructure and strictly implement the testing guidelines, said Bhushan.  He said that as a proactive step, the Central Government has already placed countries where this Variant of Concern (VoC) has been found in the category of at risk for additional follow up measures of international travellers visiting India.  The Ministry also said that in view of the possible threat that this VoC can pose, it is imperative that intensive containment, active surveillance, increased coverage of vaccination and COVID-appropriate behaviour are enforced in the field in a very proactive manner.  The Ministry said there is already a reporting mechanism for obtaining travel details of passengers and this should be reviewed and the protocol provided by Health Ministry should be strictly implemented, including testing on disembarkation of international travellers coming from at risk countries.  All positive samples for genome sequencing should be sent to INSACOG Labs in a prompt manner.  The Ministry said in all hotspots, saturation testing and sending of positive samples quickly for genome sequencing to designated INSACOG labs must be ensured in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). States have also been asked to keep a close check on the emerging trend of cases and the positivity in an area and quickly delineate hotspots for effective containment.  Instructing that States should aim at achieving a positivity rate below 5% while focusing on increasing the number of tests and share of RT-PCR tests to aid in early identification, the Ministry said having adequate availability of health facilities is essential to ensure that there are no delays in providing care.  The Ministry has also asked States to hold regular peer briefing to help promote COVID appropriate behaviour and vaccination.  

Munawar Faruqui hints at quitting after Bengaluru Police deny permission for show  

Stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui on November 28 hinted that he may not do any more shows, a day after his scheduled event in Bengaluru was cancelled. Police had advised the organisers to call it off, citing possible law and order problems. Earlier, his shows have been cancelled in other cities on similar grounds.  City police had said that the organisers of the event, scheduled to be held on November 28 evening, should cancel the show, as several groups are opposed to it and this could create chaos and could disturb the public peace and harmony, which may further lead to law and order problems. The police issued the letter on November 27 night.  Faruqui, who had come to the city for the show, left on November 28 morning after posting a statement on his social media handles, hinting at quitting the space. Lamenting how he was jailed for a joke he did not do, and of 12 shows being cancelled in the last two months because of threats to venue and audience, he wrote: I think this is the end. My name is Munawar Faruqui and that’s been my time, you guys were a wonderful audience. Goodbye! I am done.  Organisers of the November 28 event said Faruqui felt dejected at how he is being systematically targeted. Faruqui was himself not available for further comment.  Faruqui was arrested in Indore in January earlier this year after a Hindutva right wing activist alleged he denigrated Hindu gods. He spent 37 days in jail before the Supreme Court granted him bail.  Bengaluru Police cancelling the show comes close on the heels of 12 shows of the comic being similarly cancelled by the police in Maharashtra and Gujarat this month alone, following a campaign by Hindutva right wing organisations calling for a ban on the artiste and threatening protests if his shows are held.  The city police move has come under severe criticism by rights activists in the city. It is sad that a systematic campaign by Hindutva groups has scuttled a comedian, just because of his religion, said advocate-activist Vinay Sreenivasa. It is sad to note that a threat of a protest leads to stifling of freedom of expression in this city. Some groups cannot hold the city to ransom. Society needs to stand by the artist, said human rights advocate B.T. Venkatesh.  

UPTET cancelled after paper leak, CM Adityanath says NSA will be invoked against culprits  

The Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UPTET), scheduled to be held on November 28, was cancelled after a question paper for the exam was leaked, an officer in Lucknow announced shortly before the exam was to begin.  The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) arrested 23 people last night using technical and other intelligence from different cities of the State, Additional Director General Law and Order Prashant Kumar said in Lucknow.  U.P. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the culprits will be booked under the National Security Act and Gangster Act. He also ordered reconvening of the exam within a month.  A question paper was leaked. I issued an order to cancel the examination and arrest those involved in the entire racket. Instructions were also given to conduct the exam within a month, and that no candidate should be charged additional fee, he said, addressing a function in Deoria district on November 28.  He said orders were given to transport the students back to their home towns in UPSRTC buses free of cost on the basis of their admit cards. Those who have committed this act should note that cases will be registered against them under the Gangster Act and the National Security Act, he said.  Later in a tweet in Hindi, the CM said properties will be seized by the government of those involved in the leak. Close to 20 lakh candidates were to appear for the Uttar Pradesh Teachers Eligibility Test (UPTET) on November 28.  Earlier in the day, the ADG said that those arrested included four from Lucknow and 13 from Prayagraj. A photocopy of the question paper was obtained from them, which was shared with the government. It came to light that the copy bore the same set of questions as did the official question paper, he said.  Immediately it was decided by the government that the exam needs to be cancelled and reconvened in the coming one month. All expenses for the exam will be borne by the government. The candidates will not have to pay the fees or fill the examination form, he added.  The officer said the matter will be probed by the U.P. STF, and people or organisations involved in the leak will not be spared.  The question paper of the examination had not reached the examination centres till November 28th morning.  

Section 144 imposed in Mathura after Hindu Mahasabha threatens to install Lord Krishna idol in mosque  

The Mathura district administration has imposed prohibitory orders under CrPC section 144 following an announcement by the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha that it will install a Lord Krishna idol at the deity’s actual birthplace, which it claims is in a mosque close to a prominent temple.  Nobody will be allowed to disturb the peace and tranquillity in Mathura, District Magistrate Navneet Singh Chahal said. The clampdown comes even as another right wing organisation, the Narayani Sena, has said it will take out a march from Vishram Ghat to Sri Krishna Janmasthan, demanding the removal of the mosque.  Section 144 of the CrPC prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area.  Police said they have detained Narayani Sena secretary Amit Mishra in Mathura Kotwali, while the outfit claimed its national president Manish Yadav has been detained in Lucknow.  Chahal said he, along with Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Grover, reviewed the security around both the religious places, the Katra Keshav Dev temple and the Shahi Idgah. He said the Hindu Mahasabha had requested permission to install the idol at the mosque but it was turned down. Question of granting permission to any event that may potentially disrupt peace does not arise, Chahal added.  Hindu Mahasabha leader Rajyashri Choudhary had earlier said her organisation will install the idol of Lord Krishna in the Shahi Idgah after a maha jalabhishek to purify the place on December 6. The date marks the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the site of a temple-mosque dispute, in 1992.  The Mahasabha’s threat to perform the ritual inside the Shahi Idgah comes at a time when the local courts are hearing a series of petitions seeking the removal of the 17th century mosque.  

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

13 air passengers in Netherlands found infected with new variant  

Dutch health authorities said on Sunday they had discovered at least 13 cases of the new Omicron strain among passengers on two flights from South Africa. The infections were found after 61 out of the 600 travellers on the two KLM planes tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on Friday.  It was not unthinkable that there were further cases of the infectious Omicron variant in the Netherlands, Health Minister Hugo de Jonge said. The Omicron variant has so far been identified in 13 of the positive tests. The investigation has not yet been completed. the National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) said in a statement. The new variant may be found in more test samples.  The 61 COVID-positive passengers are almost all in quarantine at a hotel near Schiphol Airport, while a few have been allowed to go into home quarantine.  Passengers who tested negative must also go into isolation at home if remaining in the Netherlands, but others were allowed to continue with their journeys.  The Netherlands is now stepping up testing for travellers from South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Lesotho, Swaziland, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, in the region where the new variant ‘Omicron’ was first detected.   We will control whether they keep to those rules, de Jonge told reporters. The Netherlands is now stepping up testing for travellers from South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Lesotho, Swaziland, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, in the region where the new variant was first detected.   

India vs New Zealand first Test ends in a draw.

First India vs New Zealand test in Kanpur ended in a draw on November 29, 2021. The visiting New Zealand team managed to survive by the smallest of margins after their lower-order batsmen held on to pull off a draw. India had managed to take eight wickets on the last day of the first test with Ravindra Jadeja picking up four wickets and Ashwin picking up three wickets. The final session had resumed with New Zealand at 124/4. India had scored 345 in its first innings and declared at 234/ 7 in its second innings. New Zealand had scored 296 in its first innings and ended the last day at 165/9. 

Louis Vuitton Designer Virgil Abloh passes away at 41 

Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection designer Virgil Abloh passed away on November 28, 2021 after battling cancer for several years. He was 41. Virgil Abloh was the first African American creative director of the top French fashion house. He was popular for bringing streetwear such as hoodies and sneakers to the ramp. He was also the designer behind the popular Off-white brand, in which LVMH, had bought a 60-percent stake. His untimely death at the peak of his career sent shockwaves across the world, with tributes pouring in from across the world.  LVMH chief executive Bernard Arnault said in a statement, We are all shocked by this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, but also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom. 

 

NATIONAL NEWS 

Farmers defer their tractor march to Parliament

Just when face-off between farmers and parliamentarians appeared inevitable, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha suspended its November 29 tractor march to Parliament, and in a meeting next month, the roadmap for the future course of action will be decided upon. The decision to suspend the march comes two days ahead of the commencement of the Winter Session of Parliament during which a bill to repeal the contentious three farm laws is slated to be introduced.  The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of farmer unions protesting the farm laws for the past one year has demanded an assurance in Parliament and said their demand for a legislation guaranteeing farmers Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops is also awaited.  SKM leader Darshan Pal, while addressing a press conference, said, we are suspending the Parliament march on Monday. We had written to the Prime Minister for withdrawal of cases against farmers, allotment of land for building a memorial for farmers who lost their lives (during the protest), suspension of Ajay Mishra ‘Teni’ from the Union Cabinet over the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, along with other issues. He said that a reply is awaited and SKM will hold another meeting on December 4.  The SKM also demanded that the government should initiate a dialogue with them in a respectful way. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that the three farm laws would be withdrawn. Though farmer unions have welcomed the government’s move, they said their protest would continue until the laws are totally and formally withdrawn and other demands, including legal guarantee of MSP, are met. With assembly elections to the crucial states of UP and Punjab around the corner, the farmers will be watching the Union Government’s move closely.  

Prime Minister chairs meeting to review COVID preparedness plans in light of a new strain 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday directed a review of plans to ease international travel restrictions amid emerging new COVID-19 virus variant Omicron found in South Africa, designated as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). As the US and other countries restrict travel from South Africa, In a two-hour-long meeting with senior Central Government officials, Mr. Modi highlighted the need for monitoring all international arrivals and testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified ‘at risk’. The Prime Minister also asked officials to increase the second dose COVID-19 vaccine coverage at the comprehensive meeting he chaired to review the public health preparedness and vaccination situation for COVID-19. With the detection of the new strain, scientists and health experts in India have said new waves of infection are anticipated and unless we act quickly and efficiently, the country will possibly see repeat waves. India has better tools in hand now compared to two years ago, said Vinod Scaria, scientist at CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB). He added the country, however, had to improve its vaccination drive, public health measures, health infrastructure and genomic surveillance to be better prepared.  He directed that genome sequencing samples be collected from international travellers and community as per norms, tested through the network of labs already established under INSACOG, and early warning signals identified for COVID-19 management. He spoke about the need to increase the sequencing efforts and make it more broad-based. 

President Kovind calls for discretion in courtroom utterances

President Ram Nath Kovind said judges must exercise ‘utmost discretion’ while making utterances in courtrooms and quoted an American judge to argue that courts are not representative bodies and are not designed to be a good reflex of a democratic society. The President made these remarks while delivering the valedictory address at the Constitution Day celebrations, organised by the Supreme Court of India, in the presence of Chief Justice of India, N.V. Ramana. Chief Justice Ramana, while addressing the inaugural session of the same event on Friday, stated that courts intervene not to usurp the role of the government, but to nudge it to take care of unresolved grievances. Speaking at the concluding session of the two-day event, President also wondered if there can be better way to appoint judges to the higher judiciary without diluting the independence of the judiciary even to the slightest degree. The President noted that in Indian tradition, judges are imagined as a model of rectitude and detachment more akin to sthitpragya [a person of steady wisdom] and the country has had a rich history of legions of such judges known for their utterances full of sagacity and conduct beyond reproach, which have become hallmarks for the future generations.

Delhi court orders FIR against Sambit Patra for posting Arvind Kejriwal’s doctored video 

A Delhi court has directed the police to register an FIR against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sambit Patra for allegedly posting a doctored video of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal supporting the farm laws, saying it may have resulted in rioting like situation across the nation. Metropolitan Magistrate Rishabh Kapoor directed the Delhi Police to register the FIR under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and conduct a thorough investigation against the BJP spokesperson while allowing the application of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Atishi. Ms. Atishi had moved the court seeking registration of FIR against Mr. Patra claiming that the video contained statements that were diametrically opposite to the stand taken by the Delhi CM and the Aam Aadmi Party concerning the farm laws and caused discontent and dissatisfaction in the minds of farmers. The judge noted, The fact that the video was published on the Twitter handle of proposed accused with the caption ‘teeno farm bills ke laabh ginate hue (Counting the benefits of the three farm bills) Sir ji’…, prima facie proves that same was circulated with no intention but to cause the farmers to believe that Kejriwal is supporting the farm laws, which may have perpetuated the state of outrage with the protesting farmers and may have resulted in rioting like situation across the nation. The court said that a thorough investigation was required to be conducted considering the seriousness of the allegations and directed the SHO to register the FIR against Mr. Patra and initiate the probe. The judge noted that in the original video, Mr. Kejriwal was seen replying to a question asked by a journalist by quoting that in the speeches given by leaders of BJP in support of farm laws, it was stated that due to the operation of said laws, the farmers will not lose their lands, the minimum support price assured to them will not be lost, the mandi system will not overturn.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

WHO urges vigilance in southeast Asia over Omicron 

Countries must enhance surveillance, sequencing and assess the risk of importation through international travel based on updated information on circulating variants and response capacities, and take measures accordingly, World Health Organisation (WHO)’s Southeast Asia Region office said on Saturday, stating that countries in the region should be vigilant of the new VoC [variant of concern] Omicron.  Though COVID-19 cases have been declining in most countries of our region, the surge in cases elsewhere in the world and confirmation of a new Variant of Concern, is a reminder of the persisting risk and the need for us to continue to do our best to protect against the virus and prevent its spread. At no cost should we let our guards down, said Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO Southeast Asia Region.  She added that comprehensive and tailored public health and social measures to prevent transmission must continue.  The earlier the protective measures are implemented, the less restrictive they would need to be in order to be effective. The more COVID-19 circulates, the more opportunities the virus will have to change and mutate, and the pandemic will last longer, Dr. Singh warned.  According to a release issued by the WHO South-East Asia Region, the most important thing people must do is reduce their risk of exposure to the virus — wear a mask and wear it properly covering nose and mouth; keep distance; avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces; keep hands clean; cover cough and sneeze; and get vaccinated. As of today 31%, of the Region’s population is fully vaccinated, 21% partially vaccinated while nearly 48%, or about a billion people are yet to receive even a single dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, said Dr. Singh, adding that they continue to be at risk of contracting severe disease due to the virus and spreading it further.  

IIC cancels Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 

The International Cricket Council has called off the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021 in Harare due to the introduction of travel restrictions from a number of African countries, including the host country Zimbabwe, following the breakout of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa.  The decision was taken during the preliminary league phase of the nine-team tournament, that was to decide the final three qualifiers for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022, to be played in New Zealand, as well as two additional teams for the next cycle of the ICC Women’s Championship. The qualifiers will now be decided according to the team rankings as detailed in the tournament playing conditions. Therefore, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will now progress to the event in New Zealand.  Women’s ODI World Cup will be held in New Zealand from March 4 to April 3. File   ICC Head of Events Chris Tetley said: We are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel the remainder of this event but with travel restrictions from a number of African countries being imposed at such short notice there was a serious risk that teams would be unable to return home.  We have explored a number of options to allow us to complete the event but it isn’t feasible and we will fly the teams out of Zimbabwe as soon as possible. Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will now qualify for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2022 by virtue of their rankings, whilst Sri Lanka and Ireland will also join them in the next cycle of the ICC Women’s Championship.  The teams who have qualified for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 to be held in New Zealand from 4 March to 3 April are Australia, England, India, South Africa, New Zealand (hosts), Pakistan, West Indies and Bangladesh.  

NATIONAL NEWS 

Experts in India urge caution as new coronavirus variant emerges in South Africa 

With a new coronavirus variant detected in South Africa, scientists and health experts in India have said that new waves of infection are anticipated and unless we act quickly and efficiently, the country will possibly see repeat waves.  India has better tools in hand now compared to two years ago, said Vinod Scaria, scientist at CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB). He added the country, however, had to improve its vaccination drive, public health measures, health infrastructure and genomic surveillance to be better prepared.  We have to use our precious time to vaccinate all eligible people with two doses at least. Closing the gap in the unvaccinated and second dose in the 45+ age group could provide a unique opportunity to minimise COVID-19 deaths, he said.  Dr. Scaria added that boosters would not help when a larger proportion of the world has not got even one dose.  According to experts, the new variant from South Africa is important because it has a large number of mutations, including around 32 in spike protein, some of which are independently associated with immune escape as well as increased transmissibility.  Stating that the latest development is particularly concerning for a country such as India, which is densely populated, he said transmission among the susceptible population can occur at a greater pace.  

India will permit international flights from all countries from December 15  

India will permit international flights from all countries from December 15, but there will be restrictions on the number of flights from a country depending on its health risk status.  The competent authority has decided to resume the scheduled commercial international passenger services to/from India with effect from 15th December, 2021, Ministry of Civil Aviation said in an order issued today.  Due to prevailing COVID-19 situation, the capacity entitlements shall be as per the category of countries based on enlistment of countries as at-risk from time to time by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, it adds.  Countries excluded from the Health Ministry’s list of at risk nations will be allowed 100% of pre-COVID 19 flights. These include countries like the U.S., UAE, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand.  Countries that are in the at risk list but with whom India has an air bubble arrangement will be allowed 75% of pre-COVID-19 capacity. These include countries like U.K., France, Germany, Netherlands, Singapore.  Countries that are in the at risk list but with whom India doesn’t have an air bubble will be allowed only 50% of pre-COVID flights. These include South Africa, Brazil, China, Hong Kong, Israel.   

CBI gets sanction to prosecute retired Allahabad High Court judge  

The CBI has received the sanction to prosecute retired Allahabad High Court Judge S.N. Shukla in connection with a case alleging that a private medical college was favoured in his orders.  The agency had sought the High Court’s approval to prosecute the retired judge earlier this year. Following the grant of sanction, it can now file a charge sheet for further legal proceedings.  Besides Justice (now retired) Shukla, who was with the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, retired judge of the orissa High Court I.M. Quddusi has also been named in the First Information Report.  The other accused were Bhawana Pandey of Prasad Education Trust; Bhagwan Prasad Yadav, chairman of the Prasad Institute of Medical Sciences; his son Palash; and Sudhir Giri of Venketashwara Medical College (Meerut).  The case was registered in December 2019 on the basis of a preliminary enquiry initiated by the CBI on September 8, 2017, into the alleged commission of gross misconduct by Justice Shukla and others.  As alleged, the Medical Council of India (MCI) had barred the Prasad Institute of Medical Sciences in May 2017 from admitting students for two years due to sub-standard facilities and non-fulfillment of the requisite criteria. Similar action had been taken against 46 other medical institutions.  The Trust challenged the order in the Supreme Court. Subsequently, it is alleged, a conspiracy was hatched and the petition withdrawn with the Court’s permission. Then, another petition was filed before a Division Bench of the Allahabad High Court in Lucknow on August 24, 2017.  The next day, Quddusi and the institute’s chairman met Justice Shukla at his residence and delivered illegal gratification. According to the CBI, the petition was heard later that day by the Division Bench comprising Justice Shukla and a favourable order was passed.  The MCI challenged the order in the Supreme Court. During the hearing, the Trust did not claim any benefit from the High Court order, but requested that its bank guarantee not be encashed, which was permitted. The agency alleged that the institute’s chief then attempted to get back the illegal gratification from Justice Shukla and a part of it was returned.  In September 2017, in another case, the agency had arrested Quddusi and five others for allegedly conspiring to get the case of the Lucknow-based institute settled in the Supreme Court. The institute’s chief, his son Palash, Pandey, alleged middleman Vishwanath Agarwala and hawala operator Ramdev Saraswat were also arrested.  The CBI did not need sanction to prosecute Quddusi as he had retired at the time of the alleged offence.   

Sibal urges urgent SC hearing over ‘mayhem’ in Tripura  

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal on Friday made an urgent mentioning in the Supreme Court, alleging mayhem in Tripura where the municipal elections are underway.  The senior lawyer urged a Bench led by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud to hear the case in the course of the day.  The request came just 24 hours after the court ordered additional deployment of central armed police forces to be moved across the State to protect the electoral process. It had also directed the State and the police to not hinder the media from reporting on the elections.  No two battalions of CAPF… Media was to be given unhindered access. It is mayhem there, Sibal submitted.  He claimed to have electronic evidence to show that the apex court orders were not being followed.  However, Justice Chandrachud, who was heading a different Bench from the one he was heading on November 25, expressed doubts about hearing the matter on the same day.  The November 25 order of the apex court was based on petitions, including one filed by All India Trinamool Congress party, alleging intimidation and violence in Tripura in the build-up to the elections.  The Communist Party of India (Marxist) had also intervened in the court, alleging attacks on their party workers.  

 

Farmers in hundreds descend at protest sites to mark anniversary  

Hundreds of tractors bedecked with lights and posters rolled through the Singhu border protest site as loud Punjabi and Haryanvi songs filled the air on Friday to mark one year of the protest against the three farm laws that the government is set to formally withdraw.  Farmers flaunting colourful turbans, sunshades, long beards and twirling moustaches danced on tractors, distributed sweets and hugged each other to mark the occasion that seemed like a festival.  Thousands of them have flocked to the site over the last few days, buoyed by the government’s announcement to repeal the farms laws, to mark the completion of one year of a dogged protest that saw a long dusty patch of the Delhi-Karnal road between Delhi and Sonepat turn into a makeshift town with bamboo huts and all the basic amenities one could think of.  Children and elderly, men and women, carried flags of their farmer unions and raised slogans of victory, ‘Inquilab Zindabad’ and ‘Mazdoor Kisan Ekta Zindabad’ amid passionate non-stop beating of drums.  Farmers gather at the Singhu border protest site in New Delhi on November 26, 2021 as they mark one year of their agitation against the Centre’s farm laws.   The assembly area near the centrestage saw a large gathering resembling the early days of the protest. The attendees included businessmen, lawyers and teachers among others, who belonged to families of farmers.  Hundreds of farmers in tractors arrived at Ghazipur on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border.  Many of them brought along vegetables, sacks of flour and lentils, spices and cooking oil on their tractor-trollies, saying they have come prepared for a long haul.  Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), an influential farmers’ union from western Uttar Pradesh, has been leading the charge at the Ghazipur border since November last year. The BKU is part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), a farmers’ collective, which is spearheading the protest for withdrawal of three contentious farm laws and for legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) of crops.  

 

Constitution Day: ‘Right to choose Government is a right to disagree with present Government’  

Justice Gautam Patel of the Bombay High Court spoke about dissent on the Constitution Day and said, There is a need to do away with terms like ruling party, as we are governed and not ruled.  In a virtual discussion titled Undermining the Idea of India: The Way Forward, Justice Patel said, It is time we get rid of this colonial linguistic baggage. The right to choose a Government is a right to disagree with the present Government. It is a right to dissent. Because the Constitution compels us to choose every five years, it then becomes a duty and not just a right, so we must do away with terms like ‘ruling party’.  The talk was hosted by The Leaflet, a legal news website, where Justice Patel spoke about dissent. He said, The first self-preserving strategy is to criminalise dissent. Another attempt to muzzle dissent is coming from a different quarter — a civil servant has recently said the fourth front of war is coming from ‘Civil Society’. As critics have pointed out what is ‘Civil Society’? Is it in contrast to an uncivil society? Does it includee journalists, lawyers, bureaucrats, judges? Are judges a threat to the Government? Ideas are dangerous and ideas are also bulletproof. So is the Constitution of India.  He went on to say, A bulwark comes from technology — specifically the Internet. It makes impossible the kind of territorial censorship we used to see. Therefore, it does not matter if someone in America speaks about the idea of two or three Indias. The idea will somehow get through. There is nothing as too much democracy and too much dissent. Governments will come and Governments will go but the Idea of India must live on forever.  Retired Justice Madan B Lokur of the Supreme Court said dissent is the essence of freedom of speech, democracy and good governance. He said, Wanton arrests, search and seizure are undermining life and liberty and are troubling on the human rights front. An independent judiciary is a must for the ‘Idea of India’. Unless we have a judiciary that stands up and speaks up, the Constitution will become a piece of document which we discuss on every 26th of November.  

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

India-Germany launches first of its kind program for lateral entry for women researchers in joint R&D projects

Indo-German Science and Technology Centre has launched first of its kind programme that aims at promoting women in the field of research and development through lateral entry. The programme is called Women’s Involvement in Science and Engineering Research. The programme launched for the projects between India and Germany will also encourage women’s involvement in various joint research projects.

WHO designates new COVID-19 strain as ‘Variant of Concern’; names it Omicron

The World Health Organisation has named the new COVID-19 strain detected in South Africa as the ‘Variant of Concern’. The global health body has also given it a name- Omicron. B.1.1.529 variant is likely to spread more quickly than other forms of Coronavirus strains. The preliminary evidence has also suggested that there is an increased risk of reinfection. 

NATIONAL NEWS 

NEET: Centre informs SC it would revisit ₹8 lakh annual income limit for EWS category 

The Government on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that it has taken a considered decision to revisit the criteria for determining Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) to provide them reservation.  The Union Government, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, said it would take four weeks for the exercise. The submission follows rounds of grilling from the court during past hearings to reveal the logic and study before zeroing in on the exact figure of ₹8 lakh as the annual income limit to identify the EWS.  The Union Government has taken a considered decision to revisit the criteria for determining the economically weaker sections in terms of the provisions of the Explanation to Article 15 of the Constitution inserted by the Constitution (103rd Amendment) Act 2019, a Bench led by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud recorded in its order.  The court was hearing a case filed by NEET aspirants challenging a July 29 notification announcing 27% quota to OBCs and 10% reservation to EWS in the All-India Quota (AIQ) category.  The Government assured the court that the NEET counselling would be deferred for four weeks till a decision was taken on the EWS quota. The Solicitor General states that a period of four weeks would be required for this exercise [revisiting EWS criteria] and pending its conclusion, the date for counselling shall stand postponed… the court order said.      The Bench scheduled the case next on January 6.  Mehta, appearing for the Government along with Additional Solicitor General K.M. Natraj, said they have been instructed to submit that a committee would be set up to review the criteria to identify the EWS category.  The EWS quota was meant for persons who earned less than ₹8 lakh annually and did not benefit from any other existing reservation. In a previous hearing, the apex court had expressed its annoyance at the Government for not filing an affidavit explaining how it reached the ₹8 lakh figure to identify the EWS category.  The court had insisted on the affidavit though Natraj urged it to leave the larger issue of what led to income criterion of ₹8 lakh for the Constitution Bench to examine. The Supreme Court had earlier raised several questions about this criterion and made a prima facie observation that it appeared to be arbitrary, while hearing a batch of petitions related to NEET-AIQ.   

 

Family health survey suggests more women than men in India

The fifth edition of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) confirmed signs of a demographic shift in India. For the first time since the NFHS began in 1992, the proportion of women exceeded men: there were 1,020 women for 1,000 men. In the last edition of the survey in 2015-16, there were 991 women for every 1,000 men.  Only the decadal census is considered the official marker of population trends in India and have a wider surveillance programme. The NFHS surveys are smaller but are conducted at the district level and are a pointer to the future.  However, sex ratio at birth for children born in the last five years only improved from 919 per 1,000 males in 2015-16 to 929 per 1,000, underscoring that boy, on average, continued to have better odds of survival than girls.  Most States and Union Territories (UTs) had more women than men, the NFHS-5 shows. States that had fewer women than men included Gujarat, Maharashtra, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Union territories such as Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Ladakh.  All of these States and UTs, however, showed improvements in the population increase of women. A State-wise breakup of the NFHS data also shows that India is on its way to stabilising its population, with most States and UTs having a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of less than two. A TFR of less than 2.1, or a woman on average bearing two children over a lifetime, suggests that an existing generation of a people will be exactly replaced.  Anything less than two suggests an eventual decline in population over time. Only six States: Bihar, Meghalaya, Manipur, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh have a TFR above two. Bihar has a TFR of three which, however, is an improvement from the 3.4 of the NFHS-4. Again, much like the broader trend towards feminisation, the TFR in all States has improved in the last five years.  India is still poised to be the most populous country in the world with the current projection by the United Nations population division forecasting that India’s population will peak around 1.6 to 1.8 billion from 2040-2050.  The recent National Family Health Survey confirms signs of a demographic shift in India.   A Government report last year projected that India would overtake China as the world’s most populous country around 2031 — almost a decade later than the United Nations projection of 2022.  A notable exception is Kerala, a State with among the highest ratios of women to men at 1,121 — an improvement over the 1,049 recorded in the NFHS-4. However, the TFR in Kerala has increased to 1.8 from 1.6. The State has also reported a decline in the sex ratio of children born in the last five years. There are 1,047 females per 1,000 males in 2015-16, which has now declined to 951 per 1,000 males.  The NFHS-5 survey work has been conducted in around 6.1 lakh sample households from 707 districts (as on March, 2017) of the country; covering 724,115 women and 101,839 men to provide disaggregated estimates up to district level.   

 

Supreme Court for medical panel to aid Arumughaswamy probe

The Supreme Court on Thursday orally said it will safeguard the interests of Apollo Hospital and favoured constituting a medical board of experts from AIIMS to buttress Justice A. Arumughaswamy Commission of Inquiry’s efforts to gather facts on the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa at the hospital in 2016.  A Bench of Justices S. Abdul Nazeer and Krishna Murari asked the hospital, represented by senior advocate Aryama Sundaram and advocate Rohini Musa, to prepare a memo detailing what it wanted during the inquiry. The court said it would examine the memo and pass orders. The court asked the hospital to share a copy of its memo with the Commission of Inquiry by Monday. It listed the case next on Tuesday.  Apollo had moved the apex court accusing the Commission of bias, violation of the principles of natural justice and conducting the fact-finding exercise outside its jurisdiction. The Commission, represented by senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, had denied the allegation of bias, saying it was rhetorically made without providing any perspective of the matter.  Sundaram had contended that the reputation of the premier Chennai hospital was blighted overnight by the Commission, which took a tangent which was unbelievable. The senior lawyer said the path followed by the Commission was straight out of the fairy tale Alice in Wonderland.  The hospital had urged the Supreme Court to direct the Commission to share records and permit it to participate in the examination of witnesses in the inquiry process.  The hospital had also stressed on the Commission adhering to act within the ambit of the inquiry and follow procedure, as earlier noted by the Madras High Court.  Sundaram had submitted how the Commission had even got about to ask for the medical records concerning the hospitalisation of another former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M.G. Ramachandran, 37 years ago and his shifting to the Brooklyn hospital in the United States. The CoI had written to Apollo chairperson, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, for the information.  The court orally advised the Tamil Nadu government to provide the Commission with a larger room for the hearings in order to accommodate the media and members of the prospective medical board.  The State had appointed the inquiry commission headed by Justice Arumughaswamy, a retired Madras High Court judge, on September 25, 2017. The Commission’s reference was to examine the circumstances which led to the hospitalisation of Jayalalithaa on September 22, 2016 and the nature of treatment given in order to determine the cause of hospitalisation.   

 

Kejriwal announced the creation of the Yamuna Cleaning Cell

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on November 25, 2021, announced the creation of the Yamuna Cleaning Cell for expediting inter-departmental coordination and execution of projects for cleaning the heavily polluted Yamuna River. The Yamuna cleaning cell will be presided by Delhi Jal Board and comprise representatives from different departments including Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development (DSIIDC), Irrigation Flood Control Department to monitor sewerage of JJ Clusters and Industrial Clusters, Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETPs). The Yamuna cleaning cell will oversee the management of sewerage systems of Jhuggi-Jhopdi clusters (JJ clusters), Industrial Clusters, CETPs, construction of new STSP/DSTPs, laying of sewerage network in 1,799 unauthorized colonies, septage management, ensure untreated water does not get discharged into the Yamuna among several other responsibilities. CM Kejriwal on November 25, 2021, had convened a high-level review meeting for the management of wastewater from JJ clusters and industrial areas in regard to Yamuna cleaning. A week ago, he announced to declare a 6-point action plan to clean the Yamuna by February 2025.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS 

China lodges protest over Gen. Rawat comments on ‘security threat’ 

China’s military said on Thursday it had lodged solemn representations with India and expressed its firm opposition to Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat’s comments earlier this month on China being the biggest security threat to India and mutual suspicion rising between the two sides.  People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Senior Colonel Wu Qian, who is spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, described Gen. Rawat’s comments as irresponsible and dangerous, speaking at the Ministry’s monthly press conference in Beijing.  Indian officials speculate on the so-called ‘Chinese military threat’ for no reason, which is a serious violation of the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries that China and India do not constitute a threat to each other, he said, adding that the remarks incite geopolitical confrontation and were irresponsible and dangerous. He did not say where and how China had made solemn representations over the remarks.  While the Chinese military’s spokesperson termed the comments a violation and inciting confrontation, Indian officials have said on many occasions over the past few months that the Chinese military’s actions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) starting last summer — mobilisation of two divisions, deployment of troops in forward areas and multiple transgressions to unilaterally redraw the LAC — had not only violated bilateral understandings but also brought ties to their lowest point in years.  Last week, diplomats from the two sides agreed to restart talks between military commanders at an early date, with the 13th round of talks in October ending with an acrimonious exchange with each side blaming the other for the stalemate. At last week’s meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, both agreed to also ensure a stable ground situation and avoid any untoward incident until the situation is resolved.   

EU regulator authorises Pfizer’s COVID vaccine for kids 5-11  

The European Union’s drug regulator on Thursday authorised Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine for use on children from 5 to 11 years old, clearing the way for shots to be administered to millions of elementary school pupils amid a new wave of infections sweeping across the continent.  It is the first time the European Medicines Agency has cleared a COVID-19 vaccine for use in young children. The agency said it recommended granting an extension of indication for the COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty to include use in children aged 5 to 11.  At least one country facing spiking infections didn’t wait for the EMA approval. Authorities in the Austrian capital, Vienna, already have begun vaccinating the 5 to 11 age group. Europe is currently at the epicenter of the pandemic and the World Health Organisation has warned the continent could see deaths top 2 million by the spring unless urgent measures are taken.  The EMA green light for the vaccine developed by Pfizer and German company BioNTech has to be rubber-stamped by the EU’s executive branch, the European Commission, before health authorities in member states can begin administering shots.  Earlier this week, Germany’s health minister Jens Spahn said shipping of vaccines for younger children in the EU would begin on Dec. 20.  The United States signed off on Pfizer’s kids-sized shots earlier this month, followed by other countries, including Canada.  Pfizer tested a dose that is a third of the amount given to adults for elementary school-age children. Even with the smaller shot, children who are 5 to 11 years old developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels just as strong as teenagers and young adults getting the regular-strength shots, Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president, told The Associated Press in September.  Although children mostly only get mild symptoms of COVID-19, some public health experts believe immunising them should be a priority to reduce the virus’ continued spread, which could theoretically lead to the emergence of a dangerous new variant.  Researchers disagree on how much kids have influenced the course of the pandemic. Early research suggested they didn’t contribute much to viral spread. But some experts say children played a significant role this year spreading contagious variants such as alpha and delta.  

Saudi Arabia to lift ban on entry from 6 countries including India

Saudi Arabia on November 26, 2021, announced that it will be lifting a travel ban on expats from six countries including India and Pakistan. The ban was in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. The Interior Minister of Saudi Arabia issued the directive stating the changes will be implemented from December 1, 2021, from 1 am onwards. After the lifting of the ban, fully vaccinated persons will be able to get direct entry without the need for a 14-days quarantine. In February 2021, a ban on direct entry to Saudi Arabia was placed amid the global spike in COVID-19 cases. The ban was applied to India, UAE, Lebanon, Turkey, Egypt, Britain, the US, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Brazil, Pakistan, Argentina, South Africa, Japan, and Indonesia.