NAMASKAR! A warm welcome to 'World News: an Indian perspective on All India Radio. This is NABANITA ADHIKARI bringing glimpses of the major developments of the day from across the globe. Over the next half an hour, we shall bring to you the latest from the world of politics, economy, sports, entertainment and more.

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THE HEADLINES:

⦁ India signs contracts for procurement of indigenously developed 70 Basic Trainer Aircraft and three Cadet Training Ships costing nine thousand nine hundred crore rupees.

⦁ Indian Navy successfully tests Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile from INS Visakhapatnam.

⦁ Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls upon private sector to increase investment in various sectors for India's progress.

⦁ Sri Lankan President says, crisis-hit nation received assurance from China on debt restructuring, clearing way for IMF Bailout.

⦁ 16 people killed and over 100 injured in an explosion in a multi-storey building in Bangladesh.

⦁ US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin makes unannounced visit to Iraq.

⦁ United Nations says, Türkiye earthquake damage estimated to exceed 100 billion dollars.

⦁ And, in Women's Premier League, match between Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz underway at Navi Mumbai.

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DEFENCE-TRAINER AIRCRAFT

The Government of India has signed the contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen and Toubro Limited for procurement of 70 HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft and three Cadet Training Ships. The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday. Recently the government had approved the procurement of 70 HTT-40 trainer aircraft from HAL at a cost of over six thousand 800 crore rupees. The government had also signed a contract with L&T for acquisition of three Cadet Training Ships worth more than three thousand 100 crore rupees. HTT-40 Trainer Aircraft will meet the shortage of basic trainer aircraft of the Indian Air Force for training of newly-inducted pilots. The aircraft will be supplied over a period of six years.

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NAVY- MRSAM

Indian Navy has successfully undertaken Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) firing from INS Visakhapatnam validating capability to engage Anti Ship Missiles. The MRSAM was jointly developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israeli Aerospace Industries at Bharat Dynamics Limited. In a tweet, the Indian Navy said, it  reflects its commitment to self-reliant India.

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FRINJEX-23 MILITARY EXERCISE

The first ever joint military exercise between the Indian and French Army, FRINJEX-23, began at Pangode Military Station at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala on Tuesday. The exercise is focused on Humanitarian Assitance and Disaster Relief. The Joint exercise will further strengthened defence cooperation with France which is a key aspect of the overall Indo-France strategic partnership. We have a report:

The commander of the Pangode military base inaugurated the joint military exercise today.The Maiden Joint Military Exercise that began today will continue till tomorrow. .It is for the first time French and Indian Army are engaging in this format with each contingent comprising a Company Group. The exercise is aimed at enhancing inter-operability, coordination and cooperation between both forces at tactical level. The exercise is unique in its concept and participation with largest ever contingent being fielded by the Thiruvananthapuram-based Indian Army troops and the French 6th Light Armored Brigade. The theme for the exercise is based on “Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Operations in a Contested Environment”. Mayusha for AIR News from Thiruvananthapuram .

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RAJNATH-COMMITTEE

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met an American Jewish Committee (AJC) delegation led by Ted Deutch in New Delhi on Tuesday. The Defence Ministry said, both the sides discussed areas of common interest such as enhanced defence cooperation and defence industrial cooperation. Mr. Singh said, India offers significant advantages in terms of land cost, skilled human capital, a vibrant start-up ecosystem and a huge domestic defence market.

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MEA-AFGHANISTAN

The first meeting of the India-Central Asia Joint Working Group on Afghanistan was held in New Delhi on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by the Special Envoys and Senior Officials of India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. During the meeting, discussions were held on the current situation in Afghanistan, including the political, security and the humanitarian situation. While emphasizing the respect for sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity and non-interference in its internal affairs, all the participants has reiterated their support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan. Participants also discussed regional threats of terrorism, extremism, radicalization and drug trafficking and also deliberated on the possibilities to coordinate efforts to counter these threats. They emphasized that the territory of Afghanistan should not be used for sheltering, training, planning or financing any terrorist acts. They also emphasized on the importance of formation of a truly inclusive and representative political structure that respects the rights of all Afghans people. The sides took note of the current humanitarian situation and agreed to continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.

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HOTSPOT

In today's Hotspot Section, we bring you a News Commentary on Outcomes of Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting.

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G20-PRESIDENCY

The second Meeting of Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion,GPFI under India's G20 Presidency concluded today in Hyderabad. The two-day meeting was led by GPFI Co-Chair and G20 India Presidency and saw participation from Ministry of Finance and Central Bank representatives from G20 and non-G20 countries and International Organisations. During the Plenary, the GPFI members discussed and agreed on the way forward for important deliverables for the year including those on Digital Financial Inclusion, SME Finance. A Symposium on Digital Innovations in Payments and Remittances was also organised on the side lines of the GPFI meeting for both G20 and non-G20 countries. The Symposium hosted a Panel Discussion on Harnessing Digital Innovations in Payments Systems for Financial Inclusion, Resilience, Productivity Gains, and Inclusive Growth.

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PM-WEBINAR

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon the private sector to increase their investment just like the government so that the country gets maximum benefit from it. He was addressing a post-budget webinar on Enhancing Efficiency of the Financial Services for Creating growth opportunities. Touching upon the massive increase in the Capital expenditure outlay in the Budget to the tune of ten lakh crore rupees and dynamism induced by PM Gatishakti Masterplan, he emphasized the need to support the private sector that is working for the progress of the different geographical areas and economic sectors.

The Indian Prime Minister said, Vocal for Local is not a matter of choice but a national responsibility along with the vision  of self-reliance. He said that Vocal for Local is bigger than just buying products from the Indian cottage industry, saying there is a need to identify the areas where one can save money by building capacity in India itself. In this direction, Mr. Modi gave examples of higher education and edible oil on which a lot of money is spent.

Mr Modi asserted that today India is being called the bright spot of the global economy. The Prime Minister emphasized that as today’s India is moving with new capabilities, the responsibility of those in the financial world of India has increased. The Prime Minister noted that platforms developed by India are becoming models for the world and RuPay and UPI are not just a low cost and highly secure technology, but it is  India's identity in the world.

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SRI LANKA-IMF LETTER

Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremasinghe today told the Parliament that a Letter of Intent has been sent to the International Monetary Fund to seek approval from the Board for a 2.9 billion dollar bailout. He added that Sri Lanka received the letter from China yesterday giving assurances to support Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring. Our Colombo correspondent has the details:

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DHAKA-KILLED

In Bangladesh, at least 16 people were killed and over 100 other were injured in an explosion in a seven-storey building located at a crowded market near the BRTC bus counter, in the Gulistan area of Dhaka. Two buildings adjacent to the building where the explosion took place were also damaged. The power supply in the area has been cut off and the movement of vehicles has also been restricted. Superintendent of the Dhaka Medical College Hospital Brigadier said, the injured have been admitted to nearby hospital. Firefighters are taking part in the rescue operation. The cause of the explosion is still not known. Talking to media, Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commssioner Khandker Golam Faruk said, investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion. The blast comes close on the heels of another explosion that occurred in the Science Lab area of Old Dhaka on Sunday. According to the police, the incident was caused by a cylinder blast in the building.

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US-IRAQ

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reached Iraq on Tuesday on an unannounced visit, less than two weeks before the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. In a tweet, after landing in Baghdad, the US Defense Secretary said, his visit aims to reaffirm the US-Iraq strategic partnership as they move toward a more secure, stable and sovereign Iraq. His visit comes ahead of the 20th March anniversary of the ground invasion by the United States which ushered in two decades of bloodshed that Iraq is only now beginning to exit. In the run-up, Iraq has hosted a raft of foreign officials, including UN chief Antonio Guterres and the Iranian, Russian and Saudi foreign ministers. Since US-led coalition troops ousted Saddam's Sunni Arab-dominated regime, Iraq's Shiite majority has led Iraq under a confessional power-sharing system. Successive governments have forged close ties with Iraq's Shiite-led neighbour Iran, while Iraq also maintains relations with the United States,in a delicate balancing act. Before reaching Iraq, the US Defense Secretary held talks in neighbouring Jordan with King Abdullah II, a staunch US ally in the region. Pentagon in a statement said, Secretary Austin shared his concerns on a range of shared challenges, including, maintaining focus on security and stability in Iraq, and countering other destabilising activities in the region.

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TURKEY-PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

Türkiye's often divided opposition parties have come together to choose a single candidate to face President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May's election. Kemal Kilicdaroglu leads the main secular opposition party, the Republican People's Party (CHP). Polls suggest a tight race in a country highly polarised after two decades of President Erdogan's authoritarian rule. Economic crisis and errors during last month's earthquake may make him more vulnerable than in previous elections. A huge crowd of supporters cheered Mr Kilicdaroglu, a former civil servant, as he was chosen by a six-party opposition alliance. He is also knoas "Gandhi Kemal" or "Türkiye's Gandhi for his resemblance to Father of the Nation of India, Mahatma Gandhi. The quiet-spoken 74 year old, Kemal Kilicdaroglu offers a radically different vision in both substance and style to the fiery, charismatic Mr Erdogan's. He promised his supporters that he would govern Türkiye through consensus and consultation.

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TURKEY-UNDP

The United Nations on Tuesday said, damage from the catastrophic earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria last month has been estimated at over 100 billion dollars for Türkiye alone. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Türkiye Resident Representative, Louisa Vinton, further explained that recovery costs are yet to be added to that. Ms Vinton was talking to reporters virtually from Gaziantep in Turkey.

The 7.8-magnitude quake, which struck Türkiye and Syria in early February, claimed over 50,000 lives. UN officials labeled the catastrophe as one of the worst events in 100 years in that region.

Ms Vinton said, preliminary, it is clear from the calculations being done to date that the damage figure presented by the government and supported by the three international partners including, UNDP, the World Bank, and the European Union, will be in excess of 100 billion dollar. She said, once completed, this estimate will be the basis for a recovery and reconstruction donor conference in Brussels next week. She said, recovery costs, including efforts to build improved and more environmentally sustainable infrastructure, will exceed that amount.

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FRANCE STRIKE

In France, trade unions stepped up their fight against President Emmanuel Macron over controversial pension reform on Tuesday as most trains came to a halt, fuel deliveries were disrupted and schools shut on the sixth day of nationwide strikes. The reform would push back the retirement age for millions in the country. Local media termed it a critical time for the government, which is hoping the reform can be adopted by parliament by the end of March. To increase pressure on lawmakers not to raise the pension age by two years to 64, unions said, there would be rolling strikes this time, which could go on for days, including at oil refineries and railways. The head of the FO union told local media, they will continue until the reform is withdrawn. Garbage collectors and truck drivers joined the strike, in a sign the protests were spreading to more sectors. Like in previous strikes, power production was reduced, Fuel deliveries were blocked from all French refineries and refining was disrupted while many teachers walked off the job. Most train and metro services have been cancelled, and many schools closed. Rallies are planned across France after more than 1.27 million people took part in previous protests on 31st of January. Talking to a television channel, France Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said, she understands that not many people want to work two more years, but it's necessary to ensure the viability of the system. So far, the bill is proceeding through Parliament. While President Macron's camp does not have an absolute majority in Parliament, it can count on the support of at least part of the Les Republicans party.

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JAPAN-ROCKET LAUNCH

Japan on Tuesday was forced to blow up its new rocket during a failed launch, in a set back to country's efforts to crack a market led by Elon Musk's SpaceX. Its space agency had to send a self-destruct command to the H3 rocket when its second-stage engine failed minutes after lift-off. Observers say, it is a significant setback for Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency (Jaxa). The government called the test failure extremely regrettable. The H3 rocket is the first medium-lift rocket designed by Japan in three decades.

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BUDDHIST PILGRIMAGE

A delegation of 200 Buddhist monks from South Korea on Tuesday reached Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh from Bodh Gaya in Bihar on foot, tracing the Lord Buddha’s footsteps and life journey in India. The walking pilgrimage marked 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and South Korea and aims to increase friendship and collaboration between the two countries. Senior officials, public representatives and local people warmly welcomed the delegation. After worshiping at the Mahaparinirvana temple in Kushinagar, the delegation will leave for Lumbini, Nepal on 11th of March. The monks from South Korea will walk over 1,100 kilometres over a period of 43 days, covering Buddhist holy sites in India and Nepal, as part of their pilgrimage.

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NATIONAL PHOTO AWARD

India on Tuesday conferred the National Photography Awards in various categories upon thirteen photographers including senior photojournalist Sipra Das at a function in New Delhi. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L Murugan today gave away the awards in presence of Secretary, Information and Broadcasting Apurva Chandra.  Addressing the gathering after giving away the awards, Minister of State Dr L Murugan said that India is rising under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and it is fastest growing major economy in the world. He added that G20 meetings are being held under India's presidency across the country and its rich cultural heritage is reaching the world.

On the occasion while complimenting the awardees, Secretary, Information and Broadcasting, Apurva Chandra suggested to the Photo Division to have some more awards on government's flagship scheme like Drinking water scheme where photographers can display their skill.

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PRESIDENT-WOMEN DAY

President of India Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said that the women are playing leading and significant roles in all spheres and they are setting unprecedented records. In her message on the eve of International Women’s Day President Murmu said that the women are awakened and are holding leadership positions in many areas.  Extending her wishes to all fellow citizens, especially women, The President said that  efforts are still required for achieving gender equality and women empowerment. The Indian President said that the nation is committed to empowering our daughters through quality education so that they can realize their full potential.

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HOLI

The celebration for Holi, the festival of colours has begun in the country. The festival will be celebrated across the country on Wednesday. In Uttar Pradesh's Braj region, Holi is celebrated with religious fervour. Different types of Holi including lattmaar Holi, phoolon ki Holi, laddu maar Holi is part of the month-long Holi celebration in Mathura-Vrindavan which starts from Vasant Panchami itself.

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PREZ - HOLI

India's President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar have greeted fellow citizens and Indians living abroad on the eve of Holi. In her message, President Murmu said, the festival of Holi symbolizes the vibrant colours and spirit of tolerance in diverse society of the country. The President called upon people to work together for the progress and prosperity of the society and nation.

In his message today, Mr. Dhankhar extended his warm greetings and good wishes to all Indians on the joyous occasion of Holi. He urged the people to recommit themselves towards strengthening their bonds of brotherhood and reconnect with Mother Nature.

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WPL

In Women's Premier League, the match between Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz is underway at  Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.

Chasing a target of 212 runs set by Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz were 137 for 5 in 18 overs, when reports last came in.

Earlier, put into bat, Delhi Capitals posted 211 for four in stipulated 20 overs.

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FPR

Now let us take a look at the major developments around the world, as reported in the Foreign Press.

⦁ The Guardian writes China foreign minister warns of potential for conflict with US and hails Russia ties.

⦁ The Washington Post reports Biden to unveil plan averting Medicare funding crisis, challenging GOP.

⦁ The New York Times writes Debt Default Would Cripple U.S. Economy, New Analysis Warns.

⦁ The Globe and Mail reports Kyiv to send more troops into Bakhmut, seeing chance to break long Russian siege.

⦁ The Financial Times writes South Africa economy hit harder than expected after power cuts.

⦁ South China Morning Post says Israeli attack paralyses Syria’s Aleppo airport, disrupts earthquake aid deliveries.

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REPEAT HEADLINES

⦁ India signs contracts for procurement of indigenously developed 70 Basic Trainer Aircraft and three Cadet Training Ships costing nine thousand nine hundred crore rupees.

⦁ Indian Navy successfully tests Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile from INS Visakhapatnam.

⦁ Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls upon private sector to increase investment in various sectors for India's progress.

⦁ Sri Lankan President says, crisis-hit nation received assurance from China on debt restructuring, clearing way for IMF Bailout.

⦁ 16 people killed and over 100 injured in an explosion in a multi-storey building in Bangladesh.

⦁ US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin makes unannounced visit to Iraq.

⦁ United Nations says, Türkiye earthquake damage estimated to exceed 100 billion dollars.

⦁ And, in Women's Premier League, match between Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz underway at Navi Mumbai.

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And now, before we end, let us listen to Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajanVaishnav Jan, by artists from  SENEGAL.

AND WITH THAT, WE END THIS BULLETIN. WE'LL BE BACK AT THE SAME TIME TOMORROW WITH THE NEXT EDITION OF WORLD NEWS.

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