By Neelabh Srivastava New Delhi, Apr 17 () Paramilitary troops must keep an everyday record of their contacts and avoid mass gathering at roll calls and canteen, said a set of fresh guidelines issued by the government to protect the about 10 lakh personnel force from the COVID-19 pandemic.In the 22-point guidelines issued on Friday, the Union home ministry also makes face masks compulsory for paramilitary forces.Practice social distancing religiously, carry a small soap or sanitiser to maintain hand hygiene and do not self-medicate in case of coronavirus-like symptoms, the instructions said."Jawans should maintain a record of whom they got into contact with everyday, and it must be ensured that they get nutritious food and adequate amount of water to drink," the guidelines for 'managing COVID-19 issue in CAPFs during duty' said.Everyone should have adequate sleep, the directive accessed by said.The paramilitary forces, also know as the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), comprise the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Sashastra Seema Bal.Two other forces under the command of the Union home ministry, the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Assam Rifles, have also been issued the same directives.These forces are deployed to secure India's internal security grid and conduct of anti-Naxal, counter-terrorist and insurgency combat operations apart from assisting states in law and order duties.According to the guidelines, jawans deployed on integrated check posts (ICPs) and similar duties should essentially wear masks and gloves as their job entails frisking."Contactless frisking to be introduced and followed as far as possible," it instructed.It asked doctors and paramedic teams of these forces to make aware the jawans about the symptoms and dos and don'ts of the virus that has infected over 10 lakh people and killed thousands across the globe.It said the troops should be asked to make aware their families about the measures taken to keep away the coronavirus infection.Commanders should encourage troops to undertake physical exercise, yoga and meditation; hygiene and sanitation at camps and other places needs to be followed meticulously; and mass gathering at roll calls and canteen should be avoided, the instructions said. Troops with fever, coughing and difficulty in breathing should consult unit doctors via videoconferencing and each jawan who returns to work from leave should report to the unit hospital and suspected cases should be quarantined or isolated as per medical advice, it said.The guidelines mandated that all COVID-19 medical protocols like no touching of eyes, mouth, nose and face mask should be followed diligently.It also asked senior commanders of these forces to ensure that "maximum number of trained hands should be provided for health care facilities" and regular record of suspected and positive cases should be maintained.The CRPF, country's largest paramilitary force with about 3.25 lakh personnel, also issued similar guidelines to all its units few days back and directed its field commanders to ensure that personnel deployed in COVID-19 affected or suspected areas should be less than 50 years of age.All such personnel should be provided separate barracks or accommodation and sanitisation gear like face mask and gloves, the CRPF said.It also directed its personnel to sanitise their belts, 'lathi' (police stick) and weapons like AK 47 and INSAS rifles before hitting the ground.Spray duty shoes with sanitiser or one percent sodium hypochlorite solution and wear washed and ironed uniform daily, it said."Take fresh meal and rest properly every day. Also, two eggs and fresh fruits should be essential part of the daily diet," the CRPF instructions said.It also called for disinfecting all the troop carrier vehicles before and after duty. NES http://ptinews.com/images/pti.jpg"We bring the World to you"Disclaimer : This e-mail message may contain proprietary, confidential or legally privileged information for the sole use of the person or entity to whom this message was originally addressed. Please delete this e-mail, if it is not meant for you. DPBDPB

Keep everyday record of contacts, avoid mass gathering at roll calls: Govt guides CAPFs on COVID-19

<ul><li>DRDO developed a counter-drone technology system in 2020, however it did not get any order from the Indian armed forces. </li><li>Experts believe that the drone as well as counter-drone technology are fairly young and still need improvements. </li><li>Indian government rolled out guidelines against rogue <keyword id="94769" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="drones">drones</keyword> in 2013, yet the country doesn’t have enough anti-drone devices.</li></ul>As the government of India has just started recognising the potential use cases of drones in the Indian healthcare system, it was hit with a harsh reality that the enemies of the state have taken leaps to incorporate this technology to harm the South Asian nation. Two bombs were<a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/jammu-iaf-base-drone-attack-jawans-saw-heard-bombs-drop-1821316-2021-06-30"> dropped</a> at the Indian Air Force station in Jammu, in the early hours of June 27 this year. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;"><colgroup></colgroup><col /><col /><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">June 27, 2021 </td><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Two bombs dropped on IAF base in Jammu between 1:43 a.m.-1:50 a.m. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">June 27, 2021 </td><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Two more drones were spotted over IAF military stations at 11:45 p.m. and 2:40 a.m. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">June 28, 2021 </td><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Two similar devices were noticed in Ratnuchak-Kaluchak military area in Jammu. This prompted soldiers to open fire. </td></tr><tr><td colspan="2" style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.9375pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Source: Media reports </td></tr></tbody></table> This compelled the Indian government and security forces to go on a shopping spree to buy expensive counter-drone systems. While there are not many counter-drone technology makers in India, few of these players include state-owned Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), ideaForge and Big Bang Boom Solutions. According to media <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/india/bsf-it-ministry-companies-border-security-drone-attack-7386310/">reports</a>, there are over 500 companies that can help the country find a solution to its drone problem. All these companies may not make devices to harm or kill drones, but can certainly help in tracking them. There are also several military tech private companies in the country, including Adani Defence &amp; Aerospace and Kadet Defence Systems that make drones for surveillance and technology for other combat purposes; Atindriya Systems provides electronic systems and software solutions for defense, and Trijatta that develops radars and encryption devices for the military. The government of India has been aware of the potential threat that rogue drones could pose in the security of the nation and issued a <a href="https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Counter_rogue_drone_guidelnes_NSCS.pdf">National Counter Rogue Drone Guidelines </a>two years ago. The policy highlights that the drone factor should be taken seriously as unmanned aircrafts, consumer drones and do-it-yourself (DIY) drones are readily available over the internet. The policy, referring to the Israel-Lebanon war of 2006, highlights "In certain incidents, the small drones were also armed with explosive ordnance, to convert them into potentially lethal guided missiles, thus demonstrating the growing sophistication with which these potent warriors have found relevance in combat zones." Yet it has found itself short of any large scale counter-drone system. The Jammu attack in itself did not cost much, but it did highlight the urgency to invest in a counter-drone system that could prevent bigger attacks in the long run. In the coming months, the government of India wants to sign multi-million dollar [who’s saying this?] contracts with both domestic and foreign firms to procure these technologies. <div type="image" title="India has limited options for weapons that can take down enemy drones" msid="84836842" hostid="261"></div> The anti-drone technology has a massive headroom to cover Kruthi Aramanamada, head of marketing at ideaForge, explained to Business Insider that counter-drone technology is expensive and fairly new as it came into existence only a decade ago. The technology is not fully matured and there is still a lot of scope of research and development (R&amp;D) in this segment, she added. Meanwhile, Anshuman Tripathi, a drone technology expert who is also a member of the National Security Advisory Board, <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/combating-the-drone-menace-india-needs-to-pick-up-pace-with-anti-drone-measures-1823517-2021-07-03">said</a>, "Drones are still evolving and solutions to handle them are incomplete. It's a matter of a few years when the technology matures and you can standardise equipment as you go forward." Even developed countries like the US, Russia and Israel are <a href="https://theprint.in/opinion/brahmastra/india-needs-to-shop-for-anti-drone-systems-we-are-already-late/688517/">pumping billions</a> of dollars into research and development of both drones and counter-drone systems. However, they have not found a foolproof system for both hard and soft kill as yet. Indian armed forces on a look out for counter-drone systems In June 2020, IAF floated a Request for Information (RFI) for Indian vendors for Counter Unarmed Aircraft System (CUAS), which can be used to bring down the rogue drone. Apart from that, other ministries and departments are also looking to sign such contracts. However, there have not been many insights on who may end up getting such contracts. One of the possible beneficiaries of this spree is likely to be Israel-based company Smart Shooter, a company that has been developing systems to help militaries track and engage moving targets. Indian Navy had placed an order to <a href="https://theprint.in/defence/navy-orders-israeli-smash-2000-plus-systems-to-tackle-drones-more-contracts-in-offing/562955/">procure </a>an unspecified number of Smart Shooter’s SMASH 2000 Rifle Sights in December 2020. However, the Indian Army wasn’t quite impressed with it after their trials in January 2021. They found that the system may work well for the Navy as they work in open terrain, but it is not feasible for other terrains. This highlighted another major challenge among the counter-drone technology — use cases. The counter-drone system is not a ‘one size fits all’ type of solution and has to be customised based on the criticality of the situation, Aramanamada added. The debate between indigenous or foreign technology remains Prof. P B Sujit, adjunct faculty at School of Engineering and Technology at BML Munjal University, said that the current counter-drone tech is limited and mostly sourced or licensed from other countries. He also noted that there are few Indian startups in the segment as well, but the quality of those solutions is undetermined at the moment. “The trust in Indian developed tech is low. With the history of India importing from Israel, it's natural to import this. Moreover Israel has good tech which has been field tested with Palestine stuff... So the confidence levels are right with the Israel tech,” he added. Apart from the Israeli plan, the government is also on a look out for the technology developed by domestic players and foreign public as well as private sector units, drone original equipment manufacturers, defence tech firms and Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO). Indian stand on the counter-drone infrastructure includes only a few players at the moment: <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;"><colgroup></colgroup><col /><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">DRDO anti-drone system was<a href="https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/drdo-news-documents/NPC_15-16_Aug_2020.pdf"> first </a>deployed in India in 2020, during various national events including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech. However, it is not being used. The device had the capability to detect, intercept and destroy small drones. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">DRDO also carried out an urgent demonstration of its anti-drone system to armed forces at Kolar, a city in Karnataka, earlier in July 2021. The system has a detection capability of up to four kilometres with ‘soft kill’ option by radio frequency jamming. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">National Security Guards had <a href="https://www.firstpost.com/india/why-india-needs-israel-as-drone-attacks-become-real-and-threatens-to-be-cataclysmic-9763551.html">awarded </a>a contract worth ₹1.49 crore to Bengaluru-based Accord Software &amp; System for procurement of indigenous Counter Drone Technology System. </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-right:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-bottom:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;border-top:solid #cccccc 0.8333325pt;vertical-align:bottom;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">ideaForge has partnered with German tech firm Aaronia AG to develop anti-drone tech devices. However, the solutions have not been deployed on the ground yet. </td></tr></tbody></table> Even though the army and security forces are yet to deploy DRDO’s anti-drone system, Bharat Electronics Limited and three<a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/bsf-to-test-drdo-anti-drone-system-on-border-ied-laden-uav-shot-down-in-jammu-101627010670994.html"> undisclosed </a>private companies have signed a technology transfer agreement with the government. The agreement would enable these players to mass-produce the system. SEE ALSO <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/political-media/news/there-are-at-least-four-hot-issues-in-india-that-the-government-has-no-data-for/articleshow/84820788.cms">There are at least four hot issues in India that the government has no data for</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/cryptocurrency/news/maharashtra-karnataka-and-telangana-plan-to-use-ethereum-in-their-fight-against-fake-degrees/articleshow/84823688.cms">This Indian startup is using Ethereum to help Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana fight against fake degrees</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-expands-esop-pool-to-3000-crore-issues-stock-worth-400-crore-to-employees/articleshow/84820171.cms">Ola expands ESOP pool to ₹3,000 crore, issues stock worth ₹400 crore to employees</a>

India has limited options for weapons that can take down enemy drones

By Neelabh Srivastava New Delhi, Mar 29 () Over 450 doctors recruited recently as medical officers in the CAPFs have been asked to join service "immediately" as the forces are ramping up their healthcare setup to combat COVID-19, a top paramilitary officer said on Sunday. Retired medical officers have been "alerted" and modalities are being worked on to hire doctors on contractual service to man the chain of the forces' country-wide hospitals and quarantine centres that have a combined strength of more than 7,200 beds, ITBP Director General (DG) Surjeet Singh Deswal told . "Over 450 doctors who were recruited as medical officers for all the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) recently have been called to join duty immediately...with no loss of time. "They will enhance our strength in combating the situation arising out of the coronavirus outbreak in the country," Deswal said. A senior official said the plan was formulated at the ITBP headquarters and top-level sanctions were obtained from the Union Home Ministry before summoning these doctors. These doctors, the DG said, were recruited recently by the government for the CAPFs and ITBP was the nodal agency for their recruitment. The CAPFs have a combined strength of over 2,000 doctors and specialists at present apart from other paramedical staff. These doctors are being posted to CAPF hospitals and bases near their place of stay so that they can join without having to travel far, the ITBP chief said. The government had recently taken over the chain of 32 CAPF hospitals across the country, with a total capacity of about 1,900 beds, for isolation and treatment of COVID-19 affected patients. These forces comprise the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Border Security Force (BSF), the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Elite counter-terror force National Security Guard (NSG) is also part of this wide setup of medical facilities being prepared in view of the increasing number of cases of coronavirus infections being reported from across the country. "We are also preparing modalities to hire doctors on contract to work at our health facilities even as we have alerted those who have retired from service. Those who have superannuated are being asked to remain on standby as their services may be required anytime," Deswal said. The ITBP, which is primarily tasked to guard the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, is also running a 1,000-bed quarantine in Delhi's Chhawla area. A total of 418 Indians evacuated from Italy using special flights are housed at this facility at present, even as 518 citizens and foreigners have been discharged till now from here. Deswal said the force, apart from round-the-clock medical monitoring and providing essential services of food and entertainment to the inmates, has now begun counselling them. "Some of the people who have been evacuated from COVID-19-affected countries and are kept at our centre have high anxiety levels as they have seen devastation all around. That is normal for a human. "We have begun their counselling and are motivating them by presenting them the facts about this viral diseases and success stories," Deswal, a 1984-batch Haryana cadre IPS officer, said. At present, he is also heading the BSF as an additional charge. The DG said the morale of the force doctors and other staff members at the Chhawla camp is "high and they are committed in this fight against coronavirus". They are very happy to do this national duty and we have provided all protective gear to all of them, he said. The DG had on Saturday issued a message to the around 90,000-strong force that troops should be ready for any national duty that may be entrusted on them in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, and COVID-19 safety guidelines should be followed diligently. The CAPFs also reported their first case of coronavirus infection on Saturday, with a BSF officer and a CISF jawan being found positive. The CAPFs, which have around 10 lakh personnel, work under the command of the Home Ministry and are deployed to render a variety of internal security duties apart from border-guarding. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/harrowing-pictures-show-how-hundreds-of-thousands-of-migrant-workers-flock-to-state-borders-in-india-despite-the-nationwide-lock-down/articleshow/74870281.cms">Harrowing pictures show hundreds of thousands of migrant workers flocking to state borders in India despite nationwide lock down</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/news/akshay-kumar-guru-randhawa-and-suresh-raina-everyone-who-made-a-donation-to-pm-cares-fund-against-coronavirus/articleshow/74866128.cms">From Akshay Kumar, Guru Randhawa to Suresh Raina — All donations to PM-CARES fund against Coronavirus</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/food/news/order-pizza-as-dominos-resumes-contactless-delivery-in-delhi-during-the-lock-down/articleshow/74871279.cms">You can now order Pizza as Domino's resumes contactless delivery in Delhi during the lock down</a>

Over 450 newly recruited CAPF doctors asked to join the fight against Coronavirus

(Eds: combines related series) New Delhi, Jun 23 () As COVID-19 fatalities in India crossed the 14,000 mark, the Centre on Tuesday said the country has one death from the disease per lakh population and the mortality rate is among the lowest as against the global average of 6.04 while there was no let up in the surge in new cases. The country recorded 14,000 plus coronavirus cases for the fourth straight day as Delhi, the second worst affected state, witnessed the biggest single-day jump of 3,947 infections to take its tally to 66,602. With the Union Health Ministry crediting India's low COVID-19 mortality rate to timely detection of cases, extensive contact tracing and effective clinical management, the recovery rate also steadily improved and it was nearly 57 per cent. A total of 2,48,189 patients recovered so far, while there were 1,78,014 active cases, according to the ministry data. During the last 24 hours, a total of 10,994 COVID-19 patients have recovered. Till date, 14,011 people have died in India due to the viral infection with 312 fatalities reported in 24 hours till Tuesday 8 am, while 14,933 new cases took the total case load to 4,40,215. India is in the eighth position in the global death count of 472,541. The US accounts for the highest number of deaths totalling 120,402. "Our aim is to work towards keeping a low mortality. The number of people infected is not important as long as the mortality is low," AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria told . He also said that considering the size of the country's population the absolute number of cases will be high as compared to other countries whose population is less. "The focus and the effort from the very beginning has been on saving lives by early identification, building COVID-19 related infrastructure, ensuring oxygen support facility is available even at a district level and effective implementation of clinical management protocols." Citing the World Health Organisation(WHO) Situation Report 154 dated June 22, the Health Ministry said the United Kingdom has registered 63.13 coronavirus-related fatalities per lakh population, while in Spain it is 60.60, Italy 57.19, the US 36.30, Germany 27.32, Brazil 23.68 and Russia 5.62. "In India, early detection of cases, timely testing and surveillance, extensive contact tracing coupled with effective clinical management have helped to check case mortality," the ministry said in a statement. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR), a total of 71,37,716 samples have been tested up to June 22 with 1,87,223 samples being analysed on Monday. In some concern for the central forces, COVID-19 cases in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the two other federal forces of National Security Guard(NSG) and National Disaster Response Force( NDRF) have shot up to over 2,981 with 85 new infections being reported on Tuesday, official data showed. These forces, as per the latest data accessed by , have recorded 23 deaths due to the pandemic. The CAPFs are the Central Reserve Police Force(CRPF), the Border Security Force(BSF), the Indo-Tibetan Border Police(ITBP), the Central Industrial Security Force(CISF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal(SSB). Of the total 14,011 deaths reported in the country so far, Maharashtra accounted for the highest 6,283 fatalities. The other states reporting more than 500 deaths(number in brackets) are Delhi(2,233), Gujarat(1,684), Tamil Nadu (794), West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh with 569 each and Madhya Pradesh(521), according to the morning update of the Health Ministry. Maharashtra also accounted for the highest number of 135,796 cases. Taking a cue from the Tamil Nadu government, Karnataka Health Minister B Sriramulu said the state authorities might have to impose a lockdown in the city, after consulting experts, if the coronavirus cases continued its upward trend. Chennai was back under intense lockdown from last Friday till June 30 after the state capital witnessed a massive surge in cases. "If the situation continues like this, in the days to come we may have to think about lockdown," he told reporters. Former chief minister H D Kumaraswamy also favoured that Bengaluru be put under lockdown for 20 days. "Bengaluru will become another Brazil," the JD(S) leader tweeted, cautioning that sealing some areas would not serve any purpose. India is the fourth worst-hit nation by the pandemic after the US, Brazil and Russia. Till Monday evening, Bengaluru had reported 1,398 coronavirus cases including 67 deaths and 411 discharges. In the neighbouring state of Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the situation was becoming "grave". The COVID-19 tally touched 3,503 with 141 new cases being reported. The state has been witnessing a spike of over 100 cases for the fifth straight day. The country's first coronavirus case was reported in Kerala on January 30. Tamil Nadu reported 2,000 plus cases for the seventh successive day and over 2,500 cases for three consecutive days. The COVID-19 tally mounted to 64,603 as 2,516 more people tested positive including a maximum of 1,380 from Chennai. Chennai's share in the state count was 44,205. A new quarantine strategy confining an estimated 7-8 lakh people to homes is expected to cut down chances of transmission of the coronavirus in Chennai, according to a top official of the city civic body. The Home Quarantine Monitoring System (HQMS) has been taken up in the city with about 4,500 volunteers assigned to help and monitor those under 14-day quarantine in all 15 zones of the corporation, said Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Commissioner G Prakash. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, meanwhile, requested Lt Governor Anil Baijal to scrap the system requiring every COVID-19 patient to visit a government-run centre for clinical assessment. He said the national capital has been reporting nearly 3,000 cases every day and it is not feasible for every patient to undergo clinical assessment at COVID quarantine centres. Delhi is the second worst affected state after Maharashtra in caseload as well as in death count which climbed to 2,301 after 68 fatalities were reported in the last 24 hours, according to state authorities in the evening. PLB KND BUN VGN UD KSU NES GMS GSN GSN GSN

India has 1 COVID-19 death per lakh population, 6.04 globally, says Centre; no let up in surge in new cases

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50530516.cms" />Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Pathankot air base and expressed satisfaction over the tactical response by the security personnel during the <keyword id="3191890" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pathankot-attack">Pathankot attack</keyword>. 
 
However, noting that such attacks do not happen in future, Modi asked defence authorities to ensure that all bases near the border are made into "impregnable fortresses.” 
 
Modi was briefed on how security personnel stopped attempts by the six terrorists to storm the technical area where vital and strategic assets were located. 
 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
	
		Visited Pathankot air base today. Had a detailed briefing from senior leadership of Army, Air Force, NSG &amp; BSF: PM <a href="https://t.co/S6JngIopcY">pic.twitter.com/S6JngIopcY</a>
	— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/685787408546148352">January 9, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
	
		Was briefed in great detail on how our forces neutralised such a serious terrorist attack: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi">@narendramodi</a> after visiting Pathankot
	— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/685787656739893248">January 9, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
	
		Noted with satisfaction the decision-making &amp; its execution, the considerations that went into our tactical response: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi">@narendramodi</a>
	— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/685787877641326592">January 9, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
	
		Also noted coordination among various field units. Lauded bravery &amp; determination of our men &amp; women on the ground. They are our pride: PM
	— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/685788211780562944">January 9, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>National Security Guard commandos were called to handle the situation. 
 
Modi said bases near the border areas should have modern electronic perimeter intrusion protection systems and proper flood-lighting and control centres to live-monitor the boundaries of these bases. 
 
(Image: PIB)

PM Modi visits Pathankot air base, says defence bases near border should have modern tech

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/56793308.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" /> 
 India's military might and rich cultural diversity were in full display during the dazzling 68th <keyword id="6416557" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Republic-day">Republic Day</keyword> celebrations in the national capital which had Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the Chief Guest. 
 
Light rains and overcast skies failed to dampen the enthusiasm of thousands of spectators who witnessed the nearly one-and-half hour-long parade that marched down the majestic Rajpath, India's ceremonial boulevard, amid unprecedented security cover. 
 
 major highlight of the parade was 149-member marching contingent from UAE comprising personnel from Presidential Guards, the Air Force, the Navy and Army. They were led by a band comprising 35 musicians from that country. 
 Al Nahyan, also Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE armed forces, was seated next to Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> who wore a pink color 'safa' (turban). The two leaders were seen sharing some light moments. 
 
 For the first time a contingent of the National Security Guard (NSG), popularly known as the Black Cat Commandos, was part of the march past. 
 
The parade also saw the fly-past of three LCA Tejas Aircraft flying at a height of 300 metres in 'Vic' formation and the Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&amp;C) developed by DRDO. 
 
 The Indian Army's missile firing capability T-90 'Bhishma' tank, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-2K, Mobile Autonomous Launcher of the BrahMos Missile System, Weapon Locating Raddar 'Swathi' and Akash Weapons System and Dhanush Gun System were among the main draw in the mechanised columns. 
 Alongside the Crown Prince, the ceremonial parade was watched by Vice President <keyword id="6491214" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Hamid-Ansari">Hamid Ansari</keyword>, former Prime Minister <keyword id="6359397" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Manmohan-Singh">Manmohan Singh</keyword>, Congress chief <keyword id="689" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sonia-Gandhi">Sonia Gandhi</keyword> and the country's top political and military brass, besides the diplomatic community. 
 
Tableaux from 17 states and Union Territories and six central ministries and departments showcased the varied historical, art and cultural heritage of the country. Goods and Services Tax (GST) was the the theme of the tableau of Central Board of Excise and Customs. 
 
21 of the 25 children who won the National Bravery Award also participated in the parade. Four children have received the award posthumously. 
 
 The grand finale of the parade was a spectacular flypast by the Indian Air Force which displayed various formations like 'Chakra' and 'Vic' leaving the spectators spell-bound. The 'Hercules' formation comprising three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft also drew loud cheers. 
 The theme of IAF tableau was "Air Dominance Through Network Centric Operations" and it displayed the scaled down models of Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, AWACS, UAV, Apache and Communication <keyword id="6358065" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Satellite">Satellite</keyword>. 
 
 The Indian Navy's tableau showcased the lethal Marine Commandos proceeding for action, the indigenously built Kolkata Class Destroyer and the Kalvari Class next generation attack submarines. It also showcased a model of the P-8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft. 
 
As per tradition, after unfurling the National Flag, the National Anthem was played followed by a 21 gun salute. 
 
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Here's how India celebrated its 68th Republic Day

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/54407758.cms" style="height: 600px; width: 800px;" />When Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> appointed <keyword id="115253" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ajit-Doval">Ajit Doval</keyword> as India’s National Security Adviser, he was well-aware about Doval’s capabilities and glorious past record. 
 
Doval, who shapes India’s foreign policy and is considered the second most powerful man after Modi, is the man in-charge of talks with rival Pakistan. Doval also visits arms manufacturers to discuss strategic capabilities, and orchestrates the response to militant attacks. He everyday liaisons with India’s Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar, the nation's top diplomat. 
 
<a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-09-18/india-s-007-former-super-spy-is-shaping-modi-s-foreign-policy">Bloomberg</a>, in a report, said since Doval assumed the charge as National Security Adviser, he has supported a nationalist agenda while adopting a tougher line against hostile neighbours. That has growing economic ramifications as China funds a $45 billion trade corridor through Pakistan that bypasses India and as both China and India eye resource-rich neighbors in central Asia like Afghanistan. 
 
And why not? Doval, handpicked by Modi, has all the knowledge and has been on the field and tested hostile waters. 
 
As per <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-09-18/india-s-007-former-super-spy-is-shaping-modi-s-foreign-policy">Bloomberg</a>’s report, Doval spent seven years undercover in Pakistan, recruited rebels as informants in disputed Kashmir, and once disguised himself as a rickshaw driver to infiltrate a militant group inside India's holiest Sikh temple. 
 
After his appointment, Doval was sent to Afghanistan as special envoy and brought him on his first foreign trip to Bhutan. Doval is special representative in charge of talks with China over a disputed border as well. 
 
“He's known as an Indian James Bond - he has this larger than life persona. There are tales and stories and legends attached to him that are very unusual in a national security advisor," Sadanand Dhume, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, told Bloomberg. 
In 1988, a military operation had flushed Sikh separatists from the Golden Temple in Amritsar. 
 
Karan Kharb, a retired army officer who was one of the National Security Guard commandos involved, told Bloomberg that Doval posed as a rickshaw puller to gain entry to the temple. He convinced the militants holed up inside he was a Pakistani operative who'd come to help them in their goal of establishing an independent country called Khalistan. 
 
"Generally, in India, people are very particular, they're sticklers to the rules. Doval sees the spirit in the rule. That's where he's different. He's very innovative and an out-of-the-box thinker," said Kharb. 
 
However, despite all his accolades, Doval's influence with Modi has drawn criticism too. 
 AAP leader Ashutosh had once tweeted: "The country wants to know who is running foreign policy? A spy called Doval or diplomats?" when Modi flew to Lahore to meet Pakistan counterpart <keyword id="6576" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nawaz-Sharif">Nawaz Sharif</keyword> in a surprise visit. 
 "The best experts on how to deal with terrorism, how to think about diplomacy and foreign affairs - they are not being consulted. Doval's job is strategy, not tactics,” Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi has said when Home Minister <keyword id="6355121" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rajnath-Singh">Rajnath Singh</keyword> suffered a politically embarrassing trip to Pakistan in August that Doval pulled out of at the last minute. 
 
"Doval wields more influence than previous national security advisers in part because of his credibility and experience in intelligence and security matters," Sameer Patil, who served in the prime minister's national security council secretariat under the previous Congress government, told Bloomberg.

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