www.thehansindia.com VOL. 3 | NO. 262 | FRIDAY 17 JULY 2020 | DELHI | PAGES 8 | `5.

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WINDOWS
India gets access Twitter bites into Bitcoin bait
to Kulbhushan
Jadhav Accounts of Obama, Biden, Musk, Gates and others hacked
New Delhi: Indian ci�zen Kulb- New York (PTI): Several what we believe to be a co- with those of Obama,
hushan Jadhav prominent Twitter ac- ordinated social engineer- Kanye West, Kim Kar-
granted second counts, including those of ing attack by people who dashian West, Warren Buf-
consular access former US president successfully targeted fett, Bezos and Mike
on Thursday. Barack Obama, Tesla CEO some of our employees Bloomberg, posted similar
Warren Buffe� Barack Obama Mike Bloomberg
Indian officials Elon Musk and Microsoft with access to internal sys- tweets soliciting donations
at Pakistan for- co-founder Bill Gates, tems and tools," Twitter's via Bitcoin to their verified
eign office, says were hacked apparently to support team said on profiles on Wednesday,
Pakistan media. India on Thursday promote a Bitcoin scam in Wednesday. CNN reported. The posts BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi �es rakhi on the wrist of Delhi BJP
asked Pakistan to give "uncondi- what the microblogging The attackers posted all included the address of president Aadesh Gupta during the launch of ˜Swadeshi Rakhi' to
�onal consular access" to Kulb- site believes to be a "coor- tweets that appeared to Bill Gates Elon Musk Jeff Bezos the same bitcoin wallet, encourage Make in India programme, in New Delhi on Thursday
dinated social engineering promote a cryptocurrency which has seen as much as

hushan Jadhav, as per sources. Ear-
lier, Pakistan had claimed that he
had refused to file a review plea on
the Pakistani court military court's
PM Modi to address
attack." scam. The fake tweets of- USD 112,000 pour into it
The account of former fered to send USD 2,000 over the last few hours. It
US vice-president Joe for every USD 1,000 sent is unclear if this money

UNESC session today

judgment which awarded the
death penalty to Jadhav on charges
of espionage. India said that he
had been coerced into doing that.
"Last �me what they did was in-
sul�ng to his mother, father and
Biden, who is the current
Democratic Party presi-
dential candidate in the
November election, was
also hacked. "We detected
to an anonymous Bitcoin
address. Bitcoin is a popu-
lar vehicle for this type of
scam because once a vic-
tim sends money, the de-
Joe Biden Kanye West Kim Kardashian West came from unsuspecting
users or the scammers
sign of Bitcoin, with no in- recover the funds, The themselves, The Hill re-
stitution in charge, makes New York Times report ported.
it essentially impossible to said. The accounts, along Con�nued on Page 5 New Delhi (IANS): For the The theme of this year's
first time after getting High-level Segment is "Mul-

Chinese economy bounces back as curbs lifted

wife and insul�ng to India as a
whole. So we want that consular
access should be uncondi�onal,"
said Arvind Singh, Kulbhushan Jad-
hav's childhood friend, speaking to
ANI. Jadhav has been lodged in a
Pakistani jail since 2016 when he
was arrested in Pakistan on
charges of espionage.
84-yr-old escapes
from inside bed box
New Delhi: An 84-year-old woman
accidently locked herself inside a
bed box in her house in Central
Delhi's Karol Bagh on Thursday af-
ternoon. Old age and weakness
didn't let her come out on her
own and she got stuck. Luckily,
her granddaughter, who had
installed CCTV camera in the
room, noticed the accident and
immediately informed the po-
lice. "She had noticed through
the CCTV camera, which she
K J M VARMA
Beijing (PTI): China's GDP
bounced back by posting
3.2 per cent growth in the
second quarter after a
record 6.8 per cent slump
in the first quarter due to
the coronavirus crisis,
avoiding a recession in the
world's second biggest
economy.
China's economy saw a
sharp decline in growth in
the first three months of
the year during unprece-
dented coronavirus lock-
downs when the GDP
plummeted by 6.8 per cent.
China's gross domestic
product expanded 3.2 per
cent year on year in the
second quarter of 2020, the
country's National Bureau
of Statistics (NBS) said on
Thursday.
In the first half of this
year, the country's GDP
stood at 45.66 trillion yuan
(about USD 6.53 trillion)
amid Covid-19 impact,
down 1.6 per cent year on
year, according to NBS
data.
A breakdown of the data
showed the output of the
primary industry rose 0.9
per cent year on year, while
the service sector and the
secondary industry saw a
decline of 1.6 per cent and
1.9 per cent, respectively.
Thursday's data showed
China's job market im-
elected as non-permanent tilateralism after Covid-19:
member of the UN Security What kind of UN do we need
Council (UNSC), Prime at the 75th anniversary".
Minister Narendra Modi Set against the changing
will address a broader UN international environment
downturn. "Given the con- membership on Friday in an and the COVID-19 pan-
Cinemas to reopen tinuous global spread of
the virus, the evolving im-
annual High-Level Segment
of the United Nations Eco-
demic, this session will fo-
cus on critical forces shap-
from Monday pact of the pandemic on
the global economy and
nomic and Social Council
(UNESC) session.
ing the course of
multilateralism and explore
Beijing (PTI): China has permitted movie theatres in low-risk the noticeably mounting The Prime Minister will ways to bolster the global
areas to resume business beginning July 20 with 30 per cent external risks and chal- deliver the keynote address agenda through strong lead-
capacity as the coronavirus cases abated in the country. lenges, China's economic virtually at this year's High- ership, effective interna-
China has the world's second-largest film market after Hol- recovery is still under Level Segment from 9.30 tional institutions, a broad-
lywood with a box office revenue of over USD 10 billion in pressure," Liu said in a a.m. to 11.30 a.m. (local ening of participation and
2018. There are around 70,000 film theatres across the coun- press conference. Liu said time) at the UN in New York. enhanced significance of
try. Chinese movie theatres in low-risk areas have been al- she expects China's econ- He will be speaking at the global public goods.
lowed to resume operation starting from July 20 following omy to continue recover- valedictory session along This will be the first op-
an improvement in the Covid-19 epidemic situation, the ing in the second half of with the Prime Minister of portunity for Prime Minis-
China Film Administration announced on Thursday. the year powered by the Norway and UN Secretary ter Modi to address the
steady economic recovery General Antonio Guterres. broader UN membership
proved slightly in June, month. NBS spokesperson in H1, rapidly growing new The annual High-level since India's overwhelming
with the surveyed unem- Liu Aihua said it has been industries and business Segment convenes a diverse election as a non-perma-
ployment rate in urban ar- not easy for China to con- models, as well as the group of high-level repre- nent member of the Secu-
eas standing at 5.7 per cent, tain the COVID-19 pan- strong support from sentatives from the govern- rity Council on June 17, for
down 0.2 percentage demic in a short time and macro policies. ment, the private sector, the term 2021-22.
points from the previous reverse an economic Con�nued on Page 5 civil society and academia. Con�nued on Page 5

Hyderabad’s o�ce market

was monitoring on her mobile,
that her grandmother while
trying to open the box of a
double bed lost control and
locked herself inside the box.
The police team rushed to the
spot on the second floor of the
house in Dev Nagar, Karol
Bagh," said Sanjay Bhatia,
DCP, Central Delhi.
BUSINESS
32-yr-old man
found hanging
in AIIMS Delhi
hit hard by Covid crisis
New Delhi (PTI): A
32-year-old man was
found hanging in- HANS BUSINESS
side the washroom Hyderabad saw a 43
at AIIMS Trauma Hyderabad: After achieving per cent year-on-year
Center on Thursday tremendous growth in the decline to 2.2 mn sq
morning, police said.
Raj Amani Patel, a
last five years, the real estate
market in Hyderabad took a
�. The city also saw a
decline of 32 per cent
resident of Satna in big hit due to the Covid-19 cri-
Madhya Pradesh, sis. According to Knight
YoY to 2.7 mn sq � in
underwent intes- Frank India, Hyderabad new office space
tinal surgery at All recorded over a 40 per cent comple�ons
India Institute Of slump in both o�ce and resi-
Medical Science (AI- dential markets during the new project launches fell by during this period, a 43 per
IMS) Hospital in first half of 2020 (January- 19 per cent YoY during this cent YoY fall.
July last year, they June). period. Weighted average An immediate impact of

TTD to continue darshan

said. It launched the 13th edi- prices recorded a 7 per cent the crisis was felt by the co-
SILVER SHINES He came for fur- tion of its flagship half-yearly YoY increase in H1 2020, working industry and its ab-
BRIGHT, HITS 7-YR ther treatment at report - India Real Estate: H1 which occurred in Q1 and sorption fell by a significant

despite Covid onslaught

AIIMS Trauma Cen-
HIGH AT MCX ter on July 15 this
P6 year, police said.
They also suspect
that he was upset
due to his prolonged
treatment. Patel was
admitted to the hos-
pital around 10.30
pm. Later, he went
missing from the ad-
mission area,
Deputy Commis-
sioner of Police
(South) Atul Kumar
Thakur said. He was
found hanging in-
side the washroom
at AIIMS Trauma
Center, he said.
Continued on Page 5
HANS NEWS SERVICE
Tirupati: The TTD seems to
be getting embroiled into
another controversy.
Though rumours have been
making rounds that a large
number of the TTD sta�
(over 100) was a�ected by
COVID-19, there has been
no o�cial confirmation on
this for quite some time.
Finally, the TTD came out
with some details on Thurs-
day when TTD Chairman Y
V Subba Reddy confirmed
140 TTD employees,
Archakas, Potu staff
test corona positive
that not only 140 employees
of Devasthanams were af-
fected by coronavirus, but
also some APSPF personnel,
Archakas and Potu (Tiru-
mala temple kitchen) sta�
were a�ected.
This became necessary
not because of the specula-
tions making round or the
criticism from the Opposi-
tion, but the tweet which
had appeared on the twit-
ter handle of TTD Agama
Advisor Ramana Dikshit-
ulu saying that 15 out of 50
Archakas had tested posi-
tive and have been quaran-
tined and still the test re-
sults of 25 others were
awaited. He said the TTD
EO and AEO had refused to
stop darhsnas. If this con-
tinues it would be a disas-
ter, he said.
Con�nued on Page 5
2020 - which presents a com-
prehensive analysis of the of-
fice and residential market
performance across eight ma-
jor cities. According to the re-
port, o�ce transactions in
Hyderabad saw a 43 per cent
year-on-year decline to 2.2
mn sq ft. The city also saw a
decline of 32 per cent YoY to
2.7 mn sq ft in new o�ce
space completions. Subdued
transaction activity arrested
the growth of weighted aver-
age transacted rentals in the
Hyderabad o�ce market to
3.3 per cent YoY.
The report stated that res-
idential sales in Hyderabad
witnessed a decline of 43 per
cent YoY in H1 2020, whereas
then remained stagnant in Q2
2020. Hyderabad's o�ce
market had seen a record
growth of 172 per cent in its
transaction volumes in the
last five years. In 2019, the city
recorded an all-time high of
12.8 mn sq ft in o�ce trans-
actions which was the sec-
ond-highest amongst the top
eight cities in the country.
The Covid-19 pandemic
and the subsequent national
lockdown appear to be the
primary reasons for this poor
performance. New comple-
tions took a hit with 2.7 mn
sq ft of new o�ce space en-
tering the market in H1 2020
whereas 2.2 mn sq ft of trans-
action activity was recorded
75 per cent. The other serv-
ices sector transactions were
also adversely impacted.
On the other hand, Infor-
mation Technology/ Infor-
mation Technology Enabled
Services (IT/ITeS) sector
companies, the primary
driver of Hyderabad's o�ce
market, contributed a signifi-
cant 75 per cent in the total
transactions pie for H1 2020.
In terms of absolute volumes
as well, the IT/ITeS sector
transaction volume grew by
11 per cent YoY, from 1.5 mn
sq ft in H1 2019 to 1.6 mn sq ft
in H1 2020, and this despite
the overall lower absorption
this half-year.
Con�nued on Page 5

174 Indians file lawsuit against presidential proclamation on H1B

LALIT K JHA
Washington (PTI): A lawsuit has
been filed by a group of 174 Indi-
ans, including seven minors,
against the recent presidential
proclamation on H-1B that would
prevent them from entering the
US due to the suspension of issu-
ing of foreign work visas for the
rest of the year.
In his presidential proclama-
tion on June 22, President Donald
Trump temporarily suspended is-
suing of H-1B work visas till the
end of the year. The H-1B visa is a
non-immigrant visa that allows
US companies to employ foreign
workers in speciality occupations
that require theoretical or techni-
cal expertise.
The technology companies de-
pend on it to hire tens of thou-
sands of employees each year
from countries like India and
China. The lawsuit was filed by the
Indians in the US District Court in
the District of Columbia on Tues-
day. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson
at the US District Court for the
District of Columbia issued sum-
monses on Wednesday to Secre-
tary of State Mike Pompeo and
acting Secretary of Homeland Se-
curity Chad F Wolf, along with La-
bor Secretary Eugene Scalia.
"The proclamation 10052's H-
1B/H-4 visa ban hurts the United
States' economy, separates fami-
lies and defies the Congress. While
the two former points render it
unseemly, the latter point renders
it unlawful," said the lawsuit filed
by lawyer Wasden Banias on be-
half of the 174 Indian nationals.
The lawsuit seeks an order de-
claring the presidential proclama-
tion restriction on issuing new H-
1B or H-4 visas or admitting new
H-1B or H-4 visa holders as unlaw-
ful. An H-4 visa is a visa issued by
the US Citizenship and Immigra-
tion Services (USCIS) to immedi-
ate family members of the H-1B
visa holders.
The lawsuit also urges the court
to compel the Department of
State to issue decisions on pend-
ing requests for H-1B and H-4
visas. "In the administration of
our nation's immigration system,
we must remain mindful of the
impact of foreign workers on the
United States labour market, par-
ticularly in the current extraordi-
nary environment of high domes-
tic unemployment and depressed
demand for labour," said the
proclamation issued by Trump.
Forbes, which first reported the
lawsuit filed by the Indian nation-
als, said the complaint points out
that the Congress specified the
rules under which H-1B visa hold-
ers could work in the US and bal-
anced the interests of US workers
and employers. "The complaint
seeks to protect H-1B profession-
als, including those who have
passed the labour certification
process and possess approved im-
migrant petitions. Such individu-
als are waiting for their priority
date to obtain permanent resi-
dence, a wait that can take many
years for Indian nationals," Forbes
reported.
Meanwhile, several lawmakers
urged Scalia on Tuesday to reverse
the work visa ban. "Throughout
this administration, the president
has continued to lament the al-
leged abuses of the immigration
system while failing to address the
systemic problems that have per-
sisted and allowed businesses and
employers to exploit and under-
pay immigrant workers, guest
workers and American workers,"
the lawmakers wrote.
Con�nued on Page 5
 DELHI FRIDAY 17 JULY 2020

TWEET PATROL
KAJOL
@ITSKAJOLD
A story about three women who dance to their own
beat, #Tribhanga shows you the perfection in
imperfection. @mipalkar @tanviazmi @renukash and I
can't wait to show you our world! @ajaydevgn
@ADFFilms @Banijayasia @sidpmalhotra @ParagDesai
@NegiR @deepak30000

Monsoon nail trends

QUICK TIP

Nails are at the receiving end during the rainy season. The
monsoon can lead to rough, brittle and discoloured nails
I Taming mane
t is that time of the year again when and push them back gen-
there is a nonstop downpour, breezy tly with a cotton bud.

ADD A winds and splashy water everywhere. It

is a common perception that monsoon has a
gloomy face.
Use a cotton bud to
clean beneath the
nails too. Avoid

TONER
in monsoon
The season of monsoon calls for special cutting cuticles
care of nails to avoid damage due to red, and using metal
swollen and itchy skin around them. instruments.
Did you know, toner The season of monsoon calls for special As far as nail
care of nails to avoid infection and chipping. colours are con-
closes any open pores

to prevent dirt and
grime to accumulate
onto the skin, and
more importantly,
keeps the pH level of
the skin maintained?
During monsoon, given
the constant humidity
in the air, your skin’s
pH level has a slight
chance of shi�ing.
Adding a toner a�er
cleansing will help
maintain healthy skin,
and bring its pH levels
to normal.
W
Since we are all homebound since last cerned, pink is
over five months, trying out new nail colours ideal for hot and ho doesn't like the on-
and designs are something that just makes humid weather. Shim- set of monsoon when A regular skin and
you feel groomed and uplifted in this
Shahnaz Husain
mer is very much in, so we all get respite and hair care regime
gloomy and subdued atmosphere. go for silver shimmer this comes as a breather from
Try to keep your nails dry with extra care for the day and gold for the night. the scorching heat of summer followed by a
especially your toes. You may opt for open Lately dark colours have been in, like but at the same time, rainy season
shoes or chappals. bright blue or green, but I feel that subtle also brings a tale of skin and hair balanced diet is very
Avoid wearing leather, plastic or canvas
shoes. Do not wear the same shoes every
colours are more suitable for monsoon hot
weather. You can also go for icy colours like
problems. During the current
pandemic scare, situation has
helpful in comba�ng
day. It is better to have an alternate pair of pink or mauve. Or, go for shades of brown, become like a double whammy. the problems and
shoes. Wash your footwear regularly. like co�ee, bronze, copper, or sea shell and Sticking to a regular hair and
Cut your toe nails short to avoid any then add on glitter. skincare regime becomes very taming these
chances of accumulating dirt and other in- Classic blue is the colour of 2020, so is important to avoid beauty haz- concerns
fections. Try to spray deodorants, talcum or also be for the nails. For a gala evening, go ards. This is the season when
anti-fungal powder in between toe nails for gold or silver varnish, or try one of those skin becomes susceptible to many
regularly at least once in a day to prevent vitamin A,C and E to treats conditions that colours with glittering stars. These come in skin disorders like skin allergies, this mixture onto your hair
infection. adversely a�ect nails and cuticles. The cuti- many di�erent colours, with gold or silver rashes, oil secretion, choppy skin, and scalp and leave it on for
Try your level best to choose natural and cle should be kept soft and smooth. Other- stars. As part of nail design, nail varnish can sticky scalp, excessive dandru�, half-hour before you shampoo
chemical-free nail paints that are eco- wise, it sticks to the nail and gets dragged as be applied in unusual colours like green, hair fall, dehydrated scalp, foot it out.
friendly and cruelty-free. Avoid eating with the nail grows. blue or purple. Or, use di�erent colours for fungal and many others. � Oil up your scalp with a mask
hands that have paint on its nails as bits of Wear rubber gloves for your washing each nail. Beauty expert from Silverins from two eggs and five tea-
the nail paint can chip and fall into the food, chores. It not only protects your polish but Nail art has become a specialised field Salon and makeovers shares easy spoons of olive oil and massage
which will eventually go inside your body keeps anything harsh or drying in your nowadays. In the past, simple ways of nail to do quick fixes and beauty tips into your hair and scalp. Let it
and cause harm. cleaning solutions o� your hand. art were followed, but now it is a highly cre- to help you resolve these con- sit for a half-hour before wash-
Pick a nail colour remover that contains Apply warm almond oil, soften cuticles ative field. cerns. ing it out.
In monsoon many people face � Try avocado mask; mix one
the problem of the smelly scalp mashed avocado with a tea-
and constant itching, this causes spoon each of olive oil and

Celebrity makeup artist

TODAY a lot of embarrassment. However, honey, then apply it to your
it's always advisable to see your hair. Leave the mask on for at
dermatologist if the problem is least 20 minutes and then wash
acute and you can also show the it away.

offers free digital makeover

In just one tap, anyone can get a quick touch of #NAMGLOW
World Emoji Day
The beauty industry has taken over the digital world and especially beauty filters have created
a buzz during the lockdown as people spend more screen �me. Keeping in mind the latest
beauty trends, celebrity makeup ar�st, Namrata Soni, conceptualises three AR beauty filters
E moji’s have been used since
the beginning of the inter-
net to transmit emotion in the
for social media giant Instagram with Graphixstory, a tech-driven adver�sing studio. written medium. As internet
technology advanced, so did the
So go on girls, customise these beauty filters band to upli� your mood: use of the emoji, with previously
Namrata Soni
pure text bits of ascii art turning
into full-fledged animated faces
and symbols. We’ve all used
The liner on Fleek
condition to the skin expert. You
must also start the treatment
with cleansing and nourishing
your scalp which is the first step
towards the hair care regime.
� Using Neem oil is also very
useful for itchy scalp. Mix a
spoon of neem oil, rosemary
oil mixed with tea tree oil and
message.
� Paste of crushed neem is a very
simple and e�ective recipe for
hair.
� Treatment of fenugreek works
well for all hair woes. Soak
fenugreek seeds in water
overnight, use the strained wa-
ter for washing your hair.
� Coconut milk is very good in
treating hair fall and providing
nourishment to the scalp
Dry and frizzy hair
� Whip together half a cup of
milk, honey and few drops of
extra virgin olive oil to get rid
of dry scalp and attain healthy,
nourished, and glowing hair.
� Go for extra conditioning mask
prepared with mayonnaise,
follow up the process with hot
towel cover and wash o� with
cold water to unleash silky
hair.
Oily scalp
Apply lemon juice on your
�

Metallic Sunset G�lcow To achieve the minimal cat-eye. According to

them, and we’re excited for the
future of them! World Emoji
Tame dandruff and prevent
hair fall
scalp, leave it for 15 minutes
and then wash it o� to ensure
An unapologe hues
Smokerea�on
Namrata Soni, “I have been seeing the emphasis day celebrates the history of � Oiling with warm oil is very an oil-free scalp. You can also
t
flush of sunse g growing on e-makeup rather than Selfies. Brands, as these emotional expressions, useful in dislodging flakes and mix lemon juice in aloe vera
n
c
A classic re ctor on the lids alo in well as influencers, are trying on various filters and encourages you to be ex- dandru� from the scalp. gel. Or simply use the mask of
k
A
inspired by oor ’s with a glass s having the e-makeup op�on in order to be more ceptionally emotive! After all, � Bananas make a wonderful mint paste.
Sonam Kap k glow effect relatable to the makeup world. And with these customised beauty it’s always nice to let someone hair mask when blended with � Be careful while you buy hair
Cannes Loo filters onboard, the desire to meet the level of instruc�veness know how you’re feeling when an egg, three teaspoons each products that replace mois-
with the audience gladly meets together.” you write, isn’t it? Emoji’s are of honey and milk, and five ture-based hair products with
just one more way. teaspoons of olive oil. Massage alcohol-based creams or gels.

NEWS ROUNDUP
� CROSSWORD � SUDOKU
Across Down Anushka Sharma shares an
1 Fussy one (4) 1 Mountain route (4)
Ayurvedic tip on dental hygiene

4 Blossom adjunct (6)
8 Church bench (3)
10 Wood cutting tools (4)
13 Retailer (8)
14 Sent unwanted email (7)
15 Small seal (6)
17 Things as they
really are (9)
21 Rock musician __ Rose (3)
22 Eggy beverage (3)
23 Election winners (3)
26 South Indian state (9)
SOLUTION TO JULY 15
A
2 One of the United States
t a time when we are working on boosting our body's
(4)
immunity amid the ongoing Covid pandemic, dental
3 Internet phenomenon (4) hygiene is important too, reminds Anushka Sharma.
5 Outing (6) The actress-producer highlighted the necessity of regularly
6 Afternoon meal (3) practicing the ancient Ayurvedic method of oil pulling.
Anushka shared a few photos on her verified Instagram ac-
7 Landed property (6) count where she can be
9 Marry (3) seen sitting beside her pet
dog while performing
11 Sleeper's woe (5) the"morning ritual".
12 Little (5) "My morning ritual of
Oil pulling in the compa-
15 Signify or indicate (4) ny of my sweet-smoosh-
16 Mr Patekar of doggo Dude! Oil pulling
Bollywood (4) is an ancient Ayurvedic
practice known as 'kavala'
18 Nerve fibre core (4) or 'gundusha', a dental
19 Hitch (4) technique that involves
swishing little oil in your
SOLUTION TO JULY 15

20 Rocky height (3) mouth on an empty stom-

27 Possessing (6)
28 Stringed instrument (7)
32 Largest of the Canary
Islands (8)
34 Asian oxen (4)
35 Over in verse (3)
36 Lie in wait (6)
37 Eye inflammation (4)
23 European country (5) ach for few minutes and
then spitting it out. This
24 Slink (5) action is excellent for
25 Per ___ : however ? (6) dental hygiene and health
and also draws out toxins
26 Knots in woods (6)
in the body. As we are all
28 Alien vehicle (3) using this time to take
29 Eager (4) better care of our health and improve our immunity I thought
of sharing this. Hopefully, it will be as beneficial to you too,"
30 Orient (4) she captioned.
On the work front, Anushka as a producer is currently riding
31 Being in Latin (4)
high on the success of her latest projects, the web series "Pataal
33 Arrest (3) Lok" and the digitsl film "Bulbbul".
DELHI FRIDAY 17 JULY 2020
Farmer’s son scores 98.2 %; gets US Cornell Varsity scholarship
Lakhimpur Kher: The son of a
farmer in a remote Uttar Pradesh
village has scored 98.2 per cent
in his Class 12 examinations
which has paved the way for his
admission to a prestigious Ivy
League University in the US on
full scholarship.
Anurag Tiwari, who belongs to
Sarasan village in Lakhimpur dis-
trict, said he has got selected to
Cornell University in the US,
where he would be pursuing
higher studies in Economics.
The 18-year-old humanities
student scored 95 marks in
Mathematics, 97 in English, 99
in Political Science, and a full 100
both in History and Economics,
as per the exam results an-
nounced by the Central Board of
India, China review disengagement at LAC
New Delhi (IANS): The Indian
Army on Thursday stated that the
disengagement process at the Line
of Actual Control (LAC) with
China is intricate and "requires
constant verification". It also em-
phasised that India is taking the
de-escalation process forward
through "regular meetings at
diplomatic and military level".
During a 15-hour long delibera-
tion which started on Tuesday and
ended on Wednesday, Indian and
Chinese military delegates re-
viewed the progress on "imple-
mentation of the first phase of dis-
engagement and discussed further
steps to ensure complete disen-
gagement" at Eastern Ladakh, a
statement issued by the Army said.
Indian delegate's main agenda
of the meeting was complete pull
back of Chinese People's Libera-
tion Army (PLA) from Pangong
Lake and Depsang areas in Eastern
Ladakh. The talks started at 11.30
a.m. on Tuesday and ended at 2
QUITE RISKY
Indian school
principal wins
$1mn in Dubai
Duty draw
Dubai(IANS): The principal of
the Indian High School in Aj-
man has won a million dollars
in the Dubai Duty Free (DDF)
ra�e draw, it was reported.
Malathi Das won a million
dollars on Wednesday, after the
draw held in Terminal 2 of
Dubai International Airport,
reports Gulf News. Speaking to
Gulf News, Das said she was
grateful for the win.
Crowd funding, source of fund
in Kerala gold smuggling case
Thiruvananthapuram (IANS):
The ongoing probe by Customs
and the NIA in the now contro-
versial gold smuggling case, in
which even the o�ce of Kerala
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan
is allegedly involved, has revealed
it was crowd funding -- the main
source of funds in gold smug-
gling.
The Customs on Thursday ar-
rested two more people who have
been identified as those behind
financing the buying of gold.
The entire money required to
buy gold is transferred through
hawala to the UAE.
The case which has large scale
ramifications across sectors first
surfaced when P.S. Sarith, a for-
mer employee of the UAE Con-
sulate, here was arrested by the
Customs on July 5 when he was
Secondary Education (CBSE) on
Monday.
The outstanding Class 12 re-
sults just paved the way for the
"Cornell Dream" of the boy, who
scored 1,370 marks in his
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT), widely used for admis-
sions to major colleges in the US,
in December 2019.
"Congratulations! The admis-
sion selection committee in the
College of Arts and Sciences has
approved your early decision ap-
plication to Cornell University
for the fall of 2020. I am hon-
oured to share this wonderful
news with you and to welcome
you to the Cornell community,"
stated Jonathan R Burdick, Vice
Provost for Enrollment, in a let-
Process intricate, requires constant verification: Army
a.m. on Wednesday. Indian dele-
gates asked Chinese troops to
completely withdraw from Pan-
gong Lake and Depsang.
The Indian Army stated that In-
dia and China have been engaged
GUNA’S DALIT BEATING
MP POLITICS HEATS UP
Bhopal (IANS): The case of police
atrocity on members of a Dalit fam-
ily in Guna district has heated up
the politics of Madhya Pradesh.
The Congress has gone belligerent
on the Shivraj Singh Chouhan gov-
ernment accusing it of persecuting
Dalits and the poor, even as the ad-
ministration in a strong move re-
moved the IG of Gwalior division,
the Guna Superintendent of Police
and the District Magistrate.
The Dalit family was brutally
facilitating smuggling of 30 kg
gold in diplomatic baggage to
Thiruvananthapuram from
Dubai.
It turned murkier when the
name of Swapna Suresh, a former
employee of the UAE Consulate,
here and employed with the IT
Department, surfaced and it
turned the full circle when her
links with the principal secretary
of Vijayan - M. Sivasankar, who
is also the State IT secretary,
were revealed.
NATION/WORLD
ter to Anurag in December.
His admission now depended
on how well he performed in the
board exams.
He has now been given an-
other letter from the globally
renowned university that o�ered
him a full scholarship.
But the journey so far has not
in discussions through established
military and diplomatic channels
to address the prevailing situation
along the LAC.
"Commanders from PLA and
Indian Army held a meeting at
Students
appear in
Kerala
Engineering
Architecture
Medical
(KEAM)
examina�on at
Karapparamba
Higher
Secondary
School in
Kozhikode
beaten up by the police during an
anti-encroachment drive. Videos
on social media showed a man, his
wife and two children at the receiv-
ing end of the police action. The
man was seen being dragged by the
police after being beaten up as the
woman and the children begged
and grovelled in the dust of the
open field, where he was engaged.
The man faced the brunt of po-
lice action for occupying the piece
of land meant for college building
First Swapna was booted out
and then Vijayan quickly re-
moved Sivasankar from both the
posts, but it was not enough as
the Congress and the BJP went
full throttle demanding the sus-
pension of Sivasankar and the
resignation of Vijayan.
The Centre also stepped in and
the NIA was asked to probe the
case, even as the Customs is al-
ready on it.
A day after NIA was put into
service, Swapna and her friend
Sandeep were taken into custody
from Bengaluru and are
presently under judicial custody.
It was after that the probe
went into high gear and the Cus-
toms have by now completed a
nine hour grilling of Sivasankar,
while the NIA have got vital leads
after questioning Swapna,
been easy, said Anurag, who had
to move to a residential school in
Sitapur district for education, as
he cited the weak financial con-
dition of his family that includes
parents Kamalpati Tewari and
Sangeeta Tewari and three elder
sisters, one of them now married.
"My parents were initially re-
Chushul, on Indian side, for the
fourth round of talks, on 14 July
2020," the army said. The meeting
took place between 14 Corps com-
mander Lieutenant General
Harinder Singh and South Xin-
jiang Military District chief Major
General Liu Lin in Chushul.
The third meeting in June was
on for almost 12 hours when India
put across a strong message that
the PLA have not abided by the
disengagement consensus.
The fresh statement issued by
the Indian Army stated that the en-
gagement was consistent with the
consensus reached between the
Special Representatives of India
and China earlier, on July 5, to dis-
cuss complete disengagement --
Ajit Doval, National Security Advi-
sor of India and Wang Yi, State
Councillor and Minister of Foreign
Raj HC defers hearing in Pilot disqualification case
Jaipur (IANS): After rebel Con-
gress leader Sachin Pilot and his
18 loyalist MLAs on Thursday
moved Rajasthan High Court
against Speaker C.P. Joshi's dis-
qualification notice alleging that
"Speaker was acting under Chief
Minister Ashok Gehlot's influ-
ence", the court deferred the plea
in the matter as Pilot camp ap-
pealed to amend the plea.
The petition was filed by P.R.
Meena, an MLA from Pilot group
on behalf of 18 other MLAs who
were slapped notice for not at-
tending two CLPs meetings
called in recently.
The plea filed against the Ra-
jasthan Speaker said that they
fear "Speaker would act as per
Gehlot's instruction without giv-
ing us a fair hearing."
in Cantt area of Guna. This inci-
dent dates back a few days ago. The
Dalit couple had then consumed
insecticide. The video of the inci-
dent went viral on the social media
and now, the matter has taken on
political hue with the Congress tar-
geting the state government for be-
ing anti-Dalit.
The government also swung into
action and removed the adminis-
trative sta� after ordering an in-
quiry.
Sandeep, Sarith and Rameez, all
were arrested.
It was the leads, which led to
the modus operandi of the oper-
ations and according to the Cus-
toms, the gold smuggling gangs
consist of several layers and in-
clude financiers, here - who raise
the money to buy gold from the
Middle East. Then there is an-
other section who transports it
to the various end users - which
are the jewellers in the state and
the vital clogs are those who co-
ordinate the entire operations
with precision.
At the end of the successful op-
eration, everyone involved gets
their due share and Customs
have now found out this particu-
lar gang in the month of June
alone has smuggled 70 kg of gold
on three di�erent occasions.
luctant to send me to Sitapur. My
father is a farmer and mother a
home-maker. They thought if I
go away for studies, I may not re-
turn to farming. But my sisters
convinced them to allow me to
study," Anurag, who studied at
the VidyaGyan Leadership Acad-
emy, run by the Shiv Nadar Foun-
dation in Sitapur, said.
"Now they are all happy and
proud of me," the village lad said
in fluent English.
Asked about his fluency in
English, Anurag said it happened
after Class 6 when he joined his
current school and hardly spoke
the language at his native village.
"For the first two years here, I
could barely speak English. How-
ever, I had tried hard and could
A�airs of China spoke on telephone
then. "The Senior Commanders re-
viewed the progress on implemen-
tation of the first phase of disen-
gagement and discussed further
steps to ensure complete disen-
gagement," the statement said.
It also said that the two sides re-
main committed to the objective
of complete disengagement. "This
process is intricate and requires
constant verification. They are
taking it forward through regular
meetings at diplomatic and mili-
tary level," said the force.
India and China have been
locked in a 10-week-long stando�
at multiple points, hitherto un-
precedented along the border.
They are now engaged in military
and diplomatic deliberation to de-
escalate the situation at the bor-
der areas.
It questioned the validity and
correctness of the notice issued
by the Speaker.
Pilot moved the court ahead of
Friday deadline which the Ra-
jasthan Assembly Speaker had
given to him and 18 other rebel
MLAs to respond.
Mukul Rohatgi and Harish
Salve represented Pilot group
and were connected via video
conferencing while Abhishek
Manu Singhvi represented the
Gehlot government.
Security guard
arrested for
raping minor
Patna (IANS): A security guard
of Patna Medical college and
Hospital (PMCH), the largest
hospital in Bihar, has been ar-
rested for allegedly raping a
minor girl outside a Covid
ward in the hospital, police
said.
A police official said on
Thursday, that on July 8, the
minor girl was seen wandering
at Barh railway station. The
child helpline rescued the 15-
year-old girl and handed over
to the PMCH for Covid test.
It has been alleged that on
the night of July 8, the ward's
security guard Mahesh Prasad
(40) took the victim to the
bathroom and raped her.
The victim did not reveal
this to anyone out of fear.
When the members of Child
Helpline came to see her on
Wednesday, she narrated the
ordeal.
Child-lifting rumour led to Palghar lynching: CID
Mumbai: The Maharashtra
CID's chargesheet in the Palghar
lynching case in which two
monks and their driver were
beaten to death by a mob three
months ago, says that the inci-
dent was a fallout of rumours
that child-lifting gangs were op-
erating in the area whose mem-
bers posed as seers or uniformed
personnel like policemen, an of-
ficial said.
The Criminal Investigation
Department on Wednesday filed
the chargesheets, one running
understand if someone spoke. It
is only now that I have gotten flu-
ent but I''m still trying to im-
prove it," he said.
On the idea of studying
abroad, Anurag said he was al-
ways inclined towards Human-
ities and Liberal Arts. After
Class 10, he opted the Humani-
ties stream against advices of
many, some of whom questioned
his choice and suggested more
traditional traits - science and
commerce.
"Eventually my teachers and
counsellors in Delhi advised I
could try for Ivy League colleges
if I wished to pursue Liberal Arts.
There are various good colleges
in our country but even those
abroad can be good based on my
9.5 lakh Punjab farmers,
families under health cover
Chandigarh (IANS): Punjab
Chief Minister Amarinder
Singh on Thursday gave the
go-ahead for bringing a total
of 9.5 lakh farmers and their
families into the ambit of the
health insurance cover under
the Ayushman Bharat Sarbat
Sehat Bima Yojana for 2020-
21, as against around 5 lakh
covered in the previous year.
The scheme, launched by
the state government on the
Rajiv Gandhi birth
anniversary on August 20,
2019, with 45 lakh families
covered for 2019-2020, has
proved to be highly beneficial
to people of Punjab during
the Covid crisis.
The state government has
also capped charges for
Covid-19 treatment in
hospitals empanelled under
the Ayushman Bharat Sarbat
Sehat Bima Yojana.
The Chief Minister said
Rahul wants Cong to give
Pilot another chance
New Delhi: Despite accusing
senior party leader Sachin Pi-
lot of colluding with the BJP,
the Congress has still kept its
doors open for him and other
rebel MLAs and they may be
given another chance to re-
turn to the party fold.
Sources stated that Con-
gress leader Rahul Gandhi is
behind the softening of stance
on rebels and he is understood
to have instructed the party
leaders to give Pilot another
chance.
According to a Congress na-
SUSHANT SINGH RAJPUT'S DEATH
Rhea Chakraborty
demands CBI Probe
New Delhi: Actor Rhea
Chakraborty today called for a
CBI investigation into Sushant
Singh Rajput's death last month,
tagging Home Minister Amit
Shah in a post on Instagram. Rhea
Chakraborty -- a close friend of
Sushant Singh Rajput -- said that
she "only wanted to understand
what prompted him to take the
step". In more posts, she also al-
leged that she had received rape
and murder threats on social me-
dia.
"Respected @amitshaho�cial
sir, I'm Sushant Singh Rajput's
girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty, it is
now over a month since his sud-
den demise. I have complete faith
in the government , however in
the interest of justice , I request
you with folded hands to initiate
a CBI enquiry into this matter . I
into 4,955 pages and another of
5,921 pages, in the court of Judi-
cial Magistrate First Class
(JMFC) at Dahanu taluka in Pal-
ghar district located adjoining
Mumbai.
Two monks and their driver
were lynched by the mob at Gad-
chinchale village in the district
on April 16 when they were trav-
elling in a car to Surat (Gujarat)
to attend a funeral amid the coro-
navirus-induced lockdown.
"According to the chargesheet,
a few days before the incident of
3
preference for studies. Thus, I
applied to Cornell University and
took the SAT," he said.
The boy said he would have
gone to Cornell University in Au-
gust but due to certain travel and
visa restrictions that is unlikely
now and expects to land there
only by February 2021.
"I'm hoping to study Econom-
ics as a major subject and Math-
ematics as minor and also pursue
post-graduation abroad only and
eventually decide if I can get into
Data Analysis.
"But after completing my ed-
ucation and gaining some work
experience, I would certainly
want to return to India to work
here and also contribute in the
education sector," he said.
that the beneficiaries could
approach any of the 546
empanelled private hospitals
and 208 government
hospitals for treatment
facility of up to Rs 5 lakh for
1,396 diseases, including
major surgical treatments
such as heart surgery, cancer
treatment, joint replacement
and accident cases, under the
health insurance scheme.
The number of farmers
covered during the first year
of the scheme stood at around
5 lakh, as these had been
issued 'J' forms in 2015 by the
Mandi Board.
tional leader in Jaipur, the
party's doors are still open for
Sachin Pilot because Rahul
Gandhi has instructed that
despite all the provocation, he
should be given another
chance.
"Pilot should be given one
more chance to join the fam-
ily," he said. Sources told ANI
that Ahmed Patel, a leader
very close to Congress interim
President Sonia Gandhi, is in
contact with the former
Deputy Chief Minister of Ra-
jasthan and is talking to him.
only want to understand what
pressures prompted Sushant to
take this step," Rhea Chakraborty
wrote on Instagram.
Sushant Singh Rajput, a rising
star of Hindi films, was found
dead at his apartment in Mum-
bai's Bandra on June 14. The 34-
year-old actor died by suicide, po-
lice say. Rhea Chakraborty said
she had been subjected to online
hate with users blaming her for
his death.
lynching, rumours had spread in
Gadchinchle village and the sur-
rounding area about the child
lifting gangs in operation," the
o�cial said on Thursday.
"This has come to light during
the investigation and any other
angle for the lynching of sadhus
has been ruled out," he said. Ac-
cording to the o�cial, the CID
also collected cyber evidence, in-
cluding messages and posts
about child- lifting gangs that
were circulated on social media
platforms in the area
4 EDIT ����������������������������

Migrant labourers are not just

������������� statement has long-term strategic ramifications for
nations already feeling threatened by the expansion-
ist policies of the PRC as the Taiwanese media says.
�����������������
Even though it is hard to predict President Trump,
the signals are a sign for nations like Taiwan, India,
Japan, Australia, the UK, South East Asia and Middle
M Reinhart and Christoph Trebesch highlights the
dangers posed to the world reeling under a US$ 1.5
trillion loan to 150 countries at differential rates. The voters, they are humans too
problem with the debt becomes all the more grievous
with a systematic underreporting of ‘hidden debt’ PROF NAIDU ASHOK & DR B VINAY KUMAR
which makes the picture murkier for analysts to es-

������������
East Asian nations along with the EU to work in tan-
dem. This single statement provides a comprehensive
indication that the US still holds the fort in the unipo-
lar world as the lone superpower frail nations can
timate overall problems. A CIA report estimated at
least 3,000 grants and 2,000 loans have been admin-
istered by the PRC to international debtors between
C ovid-19 crisis has undoubtedly wreaked havoc in all sectors including
Health, Economy, Agriculture, Industry, Trade and Commerce, Trans-
portation, IT and Education. During the early days of pandemic, the gov-
1949, and 2017. This has resulted in a rise in the aver- ernment has projected lockdown as the only possible solution to stop the

R ecently, the media in Taiwan had exposed China's

real face unmasking its cunningness and the
strategic nature and wider implications of its seem-
ingly innocuous moves of late. It should be an eye-
opener to one and all as far as China's aggressive de-
signs are concerned. First, look at the campaign of
"peaceful rise of China" launched by the media of
China. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s state-
ment that “Beijing uses intimidation to undermine
the sovereign rights of Southeast Asian coastal States
in the South China Sea, bully them out of offshore
resources, assert unilateral dominion, and replace in-
ternational law with ‘might makes right’” is credible,
timely and significant on several fronts. And, the
count on during troubled times. Despite its flaws and
weaknesses, the US remains the best bet for all those
opposed to or afraid of China's expansionism. The
world within a short period has quickly realised the
‘peaceful rise’ term no longer exists, or at best is a
‘myth’ of magnificent proportions, given the aggres-
siveness in Beijing’s dealings in the Indo-Pacific re-
gion, and the strong arm tactics at the Indo-China
border. With all its encompassing aggressiveness, the
world is unaware of the dangers of debt-trap diplo-
macy being played by China. Here is where even the
US has failed to address this concern. A report pub-
lished by Harvard Business review dated 26th Feb-
ruary 2020, and written by Sebastian Horn, Carmen
age stock of debt owed to China in 50 developing na-
tions from 1% to 15% within just the past decade. A
dozen nations including Djibouti, Tonga, the Mal-
dives, the Republic of Congo, Kyrgyzstan, Cambodia,
Niger, Laos, Zambia, Samoa, Vanuatu, and Mongolia
now have debts at more than 20% of their GDP. As a
result, many of these nations have had to hand over
ownership of several investments, and swathes of sov-
ereign territory to the Chinese government, Tai-
wanese media hit the nail on the head. It is time the
world realised all this and came together to oppose
China and its expansionism. The world bodies must
come together to save smaller countries from Chinese
debt too.
spread of coronavirus, but very soon it realised that beyond lockdown,
there are several precautionary measures that need to be undertaken for
the health and wellbeing of citizens during the testing times.
When the lockdown was imposed, India was in better position in com-
parison with the US, Italy, Spain, Europe, and other countries in terms of
number of positive cases and deaths. However, instead of considering
lockdown period as preparation time for the upcoming health devastation,
the governments – both Central and States – whiled away the time. Of
course, the lockdown was inevitable but the way it was declared and exe-
cuted was objectionable, while majority of the migrant workers were left
high and dry at their workplaces, where there were no stocks of food grains
not stable shelters. Several countries have given adequate time for their
migrant workers to reach their homes from workplaces, whereas in India,
they had not been taken into consideration while declaring the lockdown.
As public transportation was banned, thousands of migrant workers
walked barefoot to their native places at least to be with their near and
dear. Several of them were killed in accidents, scores of them died of

Rahul Gandhi: Leadership undisputable

hunger and many others lost their mental balance. Despite the subject of
Interstate Migration listed in Seventh Schedule (Article-246) entry 81 of
the Union List, the Central government deliberately ignored the problems
of migrant workers across the country till May 2020. The discriminatory
attitude of the government towards the migrant workers in the country
CHALLA VAMSHI CHAND REDDY right from the beginning of the lockdown resulted social exclusion. Migrant

R
ahul Gandhi is a person who as-
pires to inspire the youth in India
to join politics for building a safer
and secure nation. He always believed that
the role of youth is critical for resolving
burning issues and the development of
any nation, particularly in a ‘youthful’
country like India. He has inspired mil-
lions of youngsters including me to join
politics and serve our nation selflessly in
times good and bad. To him, bringing
young talent onto the political platform
was always one of the most important
tasks to be achieved and he has been re-
lentlessly working for it in spirit and truth.
It is important to be cognizant of the fact
that Rahul Gandhi, a true leader from in-
side out, has devoted his energies in
paving a smooth political path for many
youngsters who were ambitious and came
from socially and economically backward
and weaker sections. We all follow him
with great pride, for he never set out to
dominate but only to serve.
Particularly noteworthy among a few
young leaders are, Rajeev Satav, Man-
ickam Tagore, Hibi Eden, Dean Kuriakose,
Ramya Haridas – all Members of Parlia-
ment and Vijay Inder Singla - Minister
Punjab, Yashomati Thakur – Minister,
Maharashtra, Ashok Chandana – Minis-
ter, Rajasthan, Meenakshi Natarajan - Ex
MP, Pradeep Maji - Ex MP and PCC work-
ing president, Orissa, Krishna Byre Gowda
- MLA and former Minister, Priyank
Kharge - MLA and former Minister,
Nadeem Javed, Amarinder Singh Raja -
MLA, Roji M John - MLA, Rizwan Arshad
- MLA and the list goes on and on.
I am another vivid example of how a
young boy, who hails from a middle class
family of a government employee, realised
his political dreams of becoming an NSUI
president at 26, Youth Congress president
at 32, MLA at the age of 34 and an AICC
Secretary at 38. Most indelible incident
in my life was when I was aspiring to con-
test the 2014 general elections, a senior
most Congress leader and Union Cabinet
Minister was lobbying for the same MLA
ticket. But guess who secured the ticket
and made it to the elections? It was me, a
34-year-old youngster who neither had
any political backing nor strong financial
background.
Rahul Gandhi confided in a youngster’s
ability and determination and chose me
over a senior leader, disregarding the po-
litical pressure and its consequences. This
credit, absolutely and unconditionally,
goes to my leader Rahul Gandhi. Two such
youngsters, that were o�ered similar op-
portunities and reaped the benefits of
their respective positions, were Jyotira-
ditya Scindia, who was a Congress MP
from 2002-2019, Union Minister at 41 and
Sachin Pilot who became an MP at the age
of 26, Union Minister at 32, PCC president
at 36 and Deputy Chief Minister at 40.
I still don’t quite understand, why has
Jyotiraditya Scindia’s and Sachin Pilot’s
ludicrous and foolish act of quitting the
workers who contribute 10 percent share in countries’ GDP, were ill-
treated and denied justice during their return journey to their homes.
The lockdown was seen more as a law and order issue than the protec-
tion and solidarity of human beings from the deadly e�ect of the Covid-
19. Hence, there was a human rights violation in the name of Covid-19
lockdown across the country.
At last, the government permitted migrant workers to return to their
homes, succumbing to the pressure from media, Opposition parties and
social activists. Special trains were arranged from di�erent States with
lot of confusion and with no proper facilities. On the other hand, the rich
foreign migrants, in an operation called ‘Vande Bharath Mission’ were
provided all facilities to return to India in specially charted flights.
Even in the Prime Ministers’ series of lockdown speeches, the ongoing
problem and grief of local migrant workers were not mentioned. Later,
while announcing the “Athmanirbhar Barat” economic relief package for
the revival of the country’s economy, only meagre priority was given to
the most a�ected section of the society. According to a study, in 2019-20,
there are nearly 18 to 20 crores migrant workers in the country. It is also
estimated that in every four labourer-workforce, one is migrant worker
in an unorganised sector.
Another notable concern of the working class is suspension and modi-
fication of labour laws. Since the subject of labour welfare fall under con-
current list of the Indian Constitution, BJP-led State governments of
Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Himachal
Pradesh have suspended several labourer welfare laws without the consent
of their concerned legislatures. Suspension of such laws in this time of
Covid-19 jeopardized the life and livelihood of the working class.
Since majority of migrant workers are deprived of the minimum needs
Ironically, in view of existing conditions, these cowards and anti-Con- pointing fingers and pelting stones at and basic amenities, they are under lot of pressure moving from one place
someone’s character in a political spec- to another. The government and the industries must extend their support
gress leaders fear Rahul Gandhi as they see him as an emerging person- trum, particularly. Rahul Gandhi could in order to maintain smooth functioning of the economic activities. Food
ality who is fighting for the very idea of India, ‘Unity in Diversity’, a perhaps be the only leader in the whole security, health and social security, right to education, right to have a dig-
marked contrast to the style of functioning of the BJP government. wide world who had given up a golden nified life etc are integral part of the human development considerations.
opportunity of becoming the Prime Min- Hence, improving living conditions, providing basic amenities, safe drink-
Rahul Gandhi’s fight to put an end to communal trapping, divisive and ster of a country, notably, a great country ing water and sanitation, urban area housing, education to the children
warmongering politics is the reason why their fears have gained weight like India, that too in the early years of of the workers, health facilities, social security and minimum wage stan-
o� late and are targeting him constantly by trying all possible ways to de- his political career. dards, etc at workplace should be the basic requirements for migrants to
I throw down a serious challenge to return to work.
fame him with unreasonable and meaningless allegations. Isn’t it evident these traitors, who are poles opposite of The approach of the government and corporate industry must be re-
that beneath all their anger and frustration lies an avalanche of fear? A real leadership. Can they just think of do- formulated and revised in the lines of social harmony and development
thorough fact check is essential to learn that it was Rahul Gandhi who ing something like this at least in their of the working classes. It is also important to resume the suspended labour
dreams? Not to forget, Rahul Gandhi held laws to empower the working classes and moreover a dialogue process
has encouraged and supported these betrayers through thick and thin in himself accountable for the defeat of the must be initiated to formulate a comprehensive policy with an e�ective
securing MLA, MP tickets and various other prominent positions in the Congress party in the 2019 elections and legal support from the laws, rules and regulations. Unilateral decisions in
party and in the government, with no second thought stepped down from the AICC president’s disadvantaging the working class may leads to the discrimination and so-
post. His never-failing kindness and a cial injustice therefore it hampers the economic development and social
constant hunt for young talent coupled harmony. On par with foreign migrants, domestic migrant workers
Congress party sparked a blame game ing all possible ways to defame him with with a sense of justice has made him a should also need to have a board to ensure that basic facilities are provided
against Rahul Gandhi? Is this some kind unreasonable and meaningless allega- real leader. He is an exemplary of greed- to them. Maintenance of digitalised nationwide database for the migrant
of joke? Rahul Gandhi has always been tions. Isn’t it evident that beneath all less politician and selfless service. workers would also enable the government to provide services easily. The
known as a visionary leader who has al- their anger and frustration lies an ava- Little did Rahul Gandhi know that proposed Migrant Labour Commission at the national level needs to ad-
ways encouraged and urged youth to join lanche of fear? A thorough fact check is these fair-weather friends and power- dress the problems of migrant labourers.
politics since the start of his own political essential to learn that it was Rahul hungry monsters would one day blame Keeping in view of the health and nutrition for the migrant workers,
career. Doesn’t it sound irrational to be- Gandhi who has encouraged and sup- their own master for not letting them rule the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the country needs to be revised.
lieve that Rahul Gandhi, the same person ported these betrayers through thick and and reign in their own way. These traitors, It is also important to include various other food supplements like millets,
who has identified umpteen youngsters thin in securing MLA, MP tickets and with insatiate greed for power and posi- dry fruits and pulses along with the regular supply of food grains. The
and groomed them to be successful indi- various other prominent positions in the tion, will soon realise their incorrigible PDS shall also need to adopt online system which would enable the ben-
viduals, is set out to pull down a couple party and in the government, with no mistakes and regret their decisions in the eficiary to get services from anywhere in the country, so that the migrant
of youngsters from their respective posi- second thought. wake of terrible consequences in times workers can utilise the services even in the workplaces. Along with health
tions considering them as a potential Rahul Gandhi was indeed appreciated to come. The Congress party has always and nutrition, education for migrant workers’ children is one of the most
threat to his own chair? by one and all for recognising and pro- taught us to be courageous and not suc- important concerns. Under Right to Education Act-2009, (Article-21 A,
Ironically, in view of existing condi- moting young talent. Why have the spec- cumb to despair even when toughest of of the Indian Constitution), the authorities must be ensured free and
tions, these cowards and anti-Congress ulations reversed now? Is this because times weigh us down. Such overambitious compulsory education to the children of migrant workers. Inclusion of
leaders fear Rahul Gandhi as they see of such traitors who have enjoyed their people with no attitude of gratitude and poor and marginalised sections of the society, especially migrated workers
him as an emerging personality who is power and position to the core till date moral standards, can never be detrimen- into the development process is of the utmost important in order to
fighting for the very idea of India, ‘Unity and have now suddenly and abruptly de- tal to the progress of Congress party. With achieve the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations
in Diversity’, a marked contrast to the cided to quit the party with a malicious sincere emotion, I salute my leader Rahul Organisation. To achieve this, the government should play a positive and
style of functioning of the BJP govern- intent to grab more and more power, at Gandhi who has done us all, a service for constructive role in promoting universal fundamental human rights of
ment. Rahul Gandhi’s fight to put an end the cost of disrespecting the existing ex- which we are grateful. right to life, right to work, right to education, right to access free public
to communal trapping, divisive and war- perienced leaders who were the pillars (The writer is former Telangana healthcare and pension to old age and disabled persons to promote human
mongering politics is the reason why of strength and vitalisers for the Con- MLA and AICC secretary in charge dignity and social justice.
their fears have gained weight off late gress party since day one? of Maharashtra. Views expressed (The authors are professors at Department of Political Science,
and are targeting him constantly by try- One should get their facts right before are personal) Osmania University, Hyderabad. Views expressed are personal)

Kudos to The Hans India! responsibilities towards the nation

LETTERS bilee, diamond jubilee, centenary both for the in and outpatient wards. The Telangana gov-

C ongratulations to The Hans India on turning ten (Nine

years of excellence and getting even better, July 16). It
is a significant milestone and a very welcome sign. I am a
fan of The Hans India for the last eight years and not one
day passes without reading our favourite daily newspaper.
It has, indeed become a part of my life. Thanks to an excellent
e-edition, regular readers like me can catch up with our
favourite newspaper, even in locations where the physical
edition is not available. Apart from being a regular reader, I
have associated myself with The Hans India in many other
capacities. I contributed a regular column titled ‘B-Buzz’
published in The Young Hans continuously for three years.
B-Buzz column received excellent feedback. I contributed
150 B-Buzz articles and 25 letters to The Hans Reader col-
umn. Apart from encouraging new writers like me, The Hans
India has always been at the forefront in increasing people's
confidence in being good at public speaking. The Hans India
completed more than a hundred Vakta programmes. The
longevity of Vakta is a testimony of its popularity.
All the very best, The Hans India team, and hoping that
you will continue till you hit a hundred and go beyond. Vi-
brant India needs a free, fair and frank media to create checks
and balances, and The Hans India is a right step in that di-
rection.
Dr M Anil Ramesh, Miyapur, Hyderabad
II
and society and also to live like
"Sheer o Shakker" (sugar in milk). A
good newspaper is the mirror of so-
ciety. The Hans India lives up to the expectation of its Chair-
man and principles of avoiding hero worship and working
towards social and political democracy. It was his Neyyat
(intentions) of making The Hans India for the People of
India and not for any religion, age, gender and caste. These
successful nine years and more are the rewards of good in-
tentions of your esteemed newspaper. The Hans India cov-
erage of Covid-19 – ‘Testing Time’ is tremendous, your Op-
Ed page, Irregular by Manjul, Womenia and The City Hans
are favourites of readers. As a fitting tribute to The Hans In-
dia family, I quote Asrar ul Hassan Khan famously known as
Majrooh Sultanpuri couplet: “Main akela hi chala tha janib-
e-mazil mager, log saath aate gae aur caravan banta gaya.”
Mohammad Abdul Waheed, Moghalpura, Hyderabad
III
T he news of The Hans India celebrating ninth anniversary
and entering into the 10th year has come like a whi� of
fresh air. When there is so much competition in quality jour-
nalism, The Hans India rises in reporting exact news main-
taining ethics is quite exemplary. The Hans India’s straight-
forwardness and calling a spade a spade as far as news
reporting is concerned is second to none. Allotting one com-
plete page to Women related news and issues is really laud-
celebrations and much more. We are
always with you The Hans India!
Nagendra Kumar Vempalli,
Hyderabad.
Ploy behind plight of OGH?
I t was disgusting to see rainwater flowing inside the wards
of Osmania Hospital which did not happen for hundred
years since the time it was built (Sickening state of a�airs at
Osmania General Hospital, July 16). We are at a loss. Was it
deliberately done to make the heritage building collapse?
The people of Telangana want a CBI enquiry into the cause
and also why the conservation work is not starting in spite
of so many protests and demands. It is pathetic to see the lo-
cal authorities and the politicians keeping silent and not vis-
iting the hospital to see the plight of su�ering patients who
are in thousands.
Dr Md Iqbal Jaweed, Darushafa, Hyderabad
II
I t was heart-rendering to witness in-patients of the Osma-
nia General Hospital and their assistants wading through
stagnant rainwater inside the hospital where they are given
treatments for various ailments. Amidst Covid-19, the au-
thorities are just fooling around, stating that people are safe
and getting cured. But the basic hospital amenities like the
ernment has chosen to be reactive than being proactive when
it comes to government hospitals because this is the only
place where the public below poverty line or who have no
adequate financial muscle knock doors to save lives. It is al-
ways better to have a safe and immaculate place for the public
to repose assurance of their life and protection.
Madhulika N, Hyderabad
III
T he fact that Osmania Hospital is flooded with rainwaters
shows the callousness on the part of the government to-
wards the common man. The fiasco has resulted in instant
transfer of the Health Secretary, but would that solve the
problem? Earlier, the High Court closed the case as the gov-
ernment said that it was yet to take a decision on demolition
of the building which is a heritage structure. What prevented
it from relocating to a new building even if it was rented
premises till it had its own building? With Corona adding to
the misery of the poor and rich alike, the need for better gov-
ernment hospitals is acute as a day is not far o� when rich
too may not be able to a�ord to get treated at the fleecing
private hospitals. The government should work in spite of
the hurdles created by the Opposition parties. The Opposi-
tion parties are meant to put every act of the government to
scrutiny and in the process every step the latter takes be-
comes thorny but being in power, the government should
overcome all the bottlenecks and perform keeping the wel-

M ubarak to The Hans India and its readers on this happy

occasion. As the famous proverb goes "Yatha Raja,
Tatha Praja" a newspaper besides giving news and views also
able. We the regular readers and fans of The Hans India are
wishing further success and growth in qualitative and quan-
titative journalism. Please continue to encourage new writers
bed capacity, sanitation and improper maintenance during
such an inundation are never properly addressed by the hos-
pital. Being a government medical aid centre, it has to e�ec-
fare of the people in mind and heart.
D Nagarjuna, Kushaiguda, Hyderabad

builds up a society and its opinion where citizens know their as you have done before. We wish you to celebrate silver ju- tuate immediate action into the upkeeping of the premises thehansreader@gmail.com
�������������������������� NEWS 5
Covid cases EXPANDED AAROGYASRI

6 more districts to get benefits

surge by 2,593,
40 succumb
Amaravati: The Covid-19 tally
in the state rose to 38,044 on
Thursday with the highest sin-
gle-day spike of 2,593 cases,
while the death toll reached
492 after 40 patients suc-
cumbed to the disease, health
o�cials said.
The o�cials said that twelve
districts with Covid cases have
been running into triple fig-
ures.
Kurnool reported the high-
est tally of 590 positive cases,
while East Godavari followed
with 500 cases. Chittoor with
205 cases and West Godavari
with 195 cases also ranked
among the high incidence dis-
tricts of the state.
Some of the other districts
that reported high Covid num-
bers in the last 24 hours in-
clude Anantapur with 174
cases, Guntur with 139 cases,
Krishna with 132 cases, Kadapa
and Nellore with 126 cases,
Srikakulam with 111 cases,
Prakasam with 104 and
Vizianagaram with 101 cases.
However, Visakhapatnam
with 81 cases, was the only dis-
trict to report fresh infections
in double digit figures.
On Thursday, the state re-
ported 40 deaths, slightly lower
as compared to the high of 44
deaths. The fatalities were re-
ported in 11 of the 13 districts.
The day's high of eight
deaths each, were reported
from East Godavari and
Prakasam districts. Chittoor
and Kadapa reported five and
four deaths respectively.
Four districts, Anantapur,
Guntur, Nellore and Visakh-
patnam, reported three
deaths each, while one death
each was reported from
Kurnool, Srikakulam and
Vizianagaram districts.
As of Thursday morning,
943 persons were discharged
from hospitals and treatment
centres.
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HANS NEWS SERVICE
Amaravati: Extending the Aaro-
gyasri cover to the poor for any
treatment exceeding Rs 1,000 to
six more districts, Chief Minister
Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy said that
the scope of the welfare scheme
would be widened further in the
coming days and a�rmed that
Andhra Pradesh is the only state
in the country to include corona
treatment in Aarogyasri list.
During the video conference
with district collectors while for-
mally announcing the extension
of Aarogyasri scheme to six more
districts, the Chief Minister said
the state has been taking all steps
to contain Covid- and brought co-
rona treatment under Aarogyasri
since April and other states have
emulated us.
The pilot project of the Aaro-
gyasri scheme was launched on
January 3 in West Godavari dis-
trict to provide medical cover for
any medical treatment which
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costs Rs 1,000 or more. The
scheme was extended to Viziana-
garam, Visakhapatnam, Guntur,
Prakasam, YSR Kadapa and
Kurnool districts from Thursday.
The Chief Minister said that the
scope of Aarogyasri is being
widened extensively and the
scheme is applicable to those
whose annual income is up to Rs
5 lakh. The state will introduce
grading system for hospitals and
there will be a revamp of the gov-
ernment hospitals under Naadu-
Nedu, he said.
“All Aarogyasri bills should be
expedited through green channel.
The state has cleared the previous
government’s dues to network
hospitals worth Rs 680 crore. The
government has also included ail-
ments like cancer and cochlear im-
plant in Aarogyasri,” the Chief
Minister said.
He also reminded that 1.42
crore Aarogyasri cards had been
distributed and the number of ail-
ments covered under the scheme
had been increased from 1,059
during the previous government
to 2,200. The state will soon have
27 teaching hospitals and 500
types of medicines supplied in
them would be of WHO standards,
he added.
The Chief Minister instructed
the district collectors to concen-
trate on containment of Covid as
we have to live with it till the vac-
cine comes out. Awareness should
be created about the safety meas-
ures and how to go about once a
person suspects the symptoms.
“People should know where the
Covid testing centres are. About
80 per cent of the cases can re-
cover by home quarantine and
those who do not have isolation fa-
cility at home, can be admitted to
Covid Care Centres. As the district
borders are opened, there is a pos-
sibility of spike in cases and the
collectors should take e�ective
steps,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the gov-
ernment had procured 1,088 vehi-
cles of 104 and 108 ambulances
with state-of-the-art technology
to provide medical facilities from
mandal level and added that they
were also providing Rs 5,000 per
month to the patients as post sur-
gery allowance for the period of
rest prescribed by the doctor.
The government will soon es-
tablish 13,000 YSR Village Clinics
with 54 types of medicines and
one ANM for providing medical
services.
The Chief Minister said that
YSR Kanti Velugu was the scheme
which has given him satisfaction
under which 65 lakh students had
undergone eye tests of which 1.58
lakh children were prescribed eye
glasses and the government had
supplied spectacles to 1.29 and the
rest will be distributed by this
month end.
Chief Secretary Neelam Sawh-
ney, Special Chief Secretary KS
Jawahar Reddy CEO , Aarogysri
Dr Mallikarjuna Rao and other of-
ficials were present at video con-
ference.
In the interactive session, ben-
eficiaries from various districts
thanked the Chief Minister for
Aarogyasri and other welfare
schemes.
����������������������������������������������������������������������
������������������������������
End ‘jungle raj’ in AP,
TDP MPs urge Prez
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New Delhi: A delegation of TDP
MPs met President Ram Nath
Kovind on Thursday and de-
manded his urgent intervention
to help uphold democratic val-
ues and the rule of law in Andhra
Pradesh.
The delegation, which in-
cluded TDP leaders Jayadev
Galla, Kanakamedala Ravindra
Kumer, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan
Naidu and Kesineni Srinivas, in-
formed the president the break-
down of the constitutional ma-
chinery in the state and
infringement of fundamental
rights of citizens. The delegation
also demanded a probe into var-
ious irregularities being carried
out by the state government in
order to plunder public money.
“The YSRCP government in
the last one year has been relent-
mined” and are under attack by
the ruling party, he alleged.
Even the Supreme Court and
High Court of Andhra Pradesh
have continuously reprimanded
or struck down unconstitutional
laws and policies, he said, adding,
the ruling party was trying to
“subvert” the judiciary and its
orders by carrying out “cosmetic
changes” and trying to imple-
ment its own decision.
The delegation also claimed
that YSRCP leaders are involved
in neck-deep corruption in sand,
land, liquor and mines among
others, while the government is
attacking the media and harass-
ing Dalits, backward class and
women. Since the leaders of TDP
are raising their voice against it,
the YSRCP government in turn
is attacking them psychologi-
cally, financially and physically,
apart from threatening them
with false cases, Jayadev alleged.
“We urge your good o�ce to take
cognizance of various violations
being carried out by the ruling
YSRCP in Andhra Pradesh and
take action accordingly.”
In order to restore constitu-
tional functioning, it is signifi-
cant that the Central govern-
ment has to intervene to set
right the constitutional machin-
ery in the state. Further, it is also
vital to conduct enquiry into var-
ious irregularities being carried
out by the state government, he

Yanamala accuses govt �4K-cr EGS bills paid: Peddireddy

lessly pursuing anti-people poli- said. “Your timely intervention
cies, and in the process pushing would instill confidence among
the state towards ‘jungle raj’,” the people during these tiring

of misleading NHRC
Jayadev alleged in a 52-page rep- and dark times and would help
resentation submitted to in upholding the democractic
Kovind. The four pillars of values, rule of law and Constitu-

on Anna canteens
HANS NEWS SERVICE
Amaravati: TDP senior leader
Yanamala Ramakrishnudu al-
leged that the state government
gave false information to the
National Human Rights Com-
mission (NHRC) saying that
Anna canteens were not closed
down in Andhra Pradesh.
Ramakrishnudu said the gov-
ernment was not only betraying
the poor workers, daily wage
earners and others but also
misleading the national level
Constitutional institutions like
NHRC.
The ruling party was insen-
sitive and indifferent to the
need for ensuring justice to the
poorer sections with whose
votes it came to power, he said
in a statement on Thursday.
He pointed out Anna can-
teens were shut down as the Y
S Jagan Mohan Reddy govern-
ment had not released funds for
them. This was despite the fact
that the canteens served food
at just Rs 5 to poor workers.
Just like Praja Vedika, the Anna
canteens project was also de-
molished, he observed.
The former minister also
condemned the attack on a
Dalit magistrate allegedly by
YSRCP leaders in Chittoor dis-
trict describing the episode as
an example for the lack of safety
and security for people of
weaker sections under the ‘au-
tocratic and oppressive’ rule of
Jagan.
“It is clear that the Chittoor
YSRCP leaders were behind the
attack on the judge. The inci-
dent is nothing but an attack on
the judiciary. But, police are not
filing a case based on the com-
plaint given by the judge.
Accuses TDP MPs of
trying to hinder Central
funds by complaining
to the President on
non-clearance of bills
HANS NEWS SERVICE
Tirupati: Panchayat raj and rural
development minister P Ra-
machandra Reddy said the previ-
ous government did not pay Rs
5,118 crore bills under MGN-
REGS (Mahatma Gandhi Na-
tional Rural Employment Guar-
antee Scheme) of which this
government has already paid Rs
4,000 crore. In the backdrop of
TDP MPs complaining to the
President of India that the YS-
RCP government had not cleared
Rs 5,000 crore pending bills un-
der the scheme, the minister ad-
dressed the media in Tirupati on
Thursday. He said that there were
several flaws in works taken up
under MGNREGS by the previ-
�������������������������������������������������������������������������������
�����������������������������������������������������������������������������
ous government on which vigi-
lance inquiry had been initiated.
Already vigilance department
has completed the inquiry into 12
major works and recovered Rs 2
crore. He alleged that the TDP
MPs complained to the President
in order to hinder the Central
funds to the state government. He
criticised that opposition leader
N Chandrababu Naidu had be-
come the No 1 enemy of the state.
He found fault with the news
reports appeared in a section of
media linking him with the at-
tack on magistrate Ramakrishna
who belongs to SC community.
The call data of the sub inspector
concerned could reveal the
truth, he opined.
democracy are being “under- tion,” Jayadev noted.
����������������������������
����������������������������
HANS NEWS SERVICE
Amaravati: Taking serious note of alleged critical remarks against the gov-
ernment, chief secretary Nilam Sahney on Thursday issued a show cause no-
tice to additional director general police-rank IPS officer Madireddy Pratap
stating that certain comments he made were in violation of conduct rules.
Pratap's posting as ADG AP Special Police Battalions has been revoked
and he has been told to report to the general administration department, a
GO said. Tagging the YouTube link of Pratap’s press conference, the CS is-
sued an order directing him to explain why disciplinary action should not be
initiated against him over the remarks.
On July 10, the government suddenly replaced Pratap as managing direc-
tor of AP State Road Transport Corporation and posted him as ADG, APSP
Battalions. Three days later while getting relieved as RTC MD, Pratap held a
press conference to highlight various initiatives he had undertaken to boost
the public transporter's growth. He also allegedly made some remarks about
his old stint as secretary to then chief minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy and
how he remained unscathed while several others faced charges of corrup-
tion during that regime.

TTD to continue darshan Hyderabad’s o�ce market hit Chinese economy

despite Covid onslaught
Continued from P1
Reacting to this, the TTD
Chairman said that being Agama
advisor, Raman Dikshitulu
should have raised the issue with
the board and should not have
taken to twitter. It is not proper
to politicise sensitive issues like
darshan. “It is not desirable for
Deekshithulu to make such com-
ments publicly,” Reddy said.
In the backdrop of this, Reddy
clarified that it was a fact that the
sta� and some Archakas tested
positive. Following this, the TTD,
he said, held discussions with
need to stop the darshan. They
said that 15 out of 40 priests
tested positive and all of them
were aged persons. They said
that some minor changes like
young archakas be provided sep-
arate stay, good food and rede-
ployment of Archakas could
solve the problem.
Based on this, the TTD de-
cided not to stop darshan. They
also decided that Archakas will
be provided separate stay, good
food, etc. It was also decided that
all Archakas who were aged
above certain age, would be kept
hard by Covid crisis
Continued from P1
Further, the top three deals of H1
2020 in terms of the transacted area
are all from the IT/ITeS sector.
"The impact of Covid-19 is evi-
dent with pre-commitment deals
coming under pause mode. Also,
there is imminent delay in upcom-
ing supply due to the near-halt sit-
uation in construction activity. Mo-
bilisation of labour and finance,
adherence to strict Covid-19 pro-
tocols and timely government ap-
provals are likely to be the chal-
lenges for developers," said
Samson Arthur, Branch Director,
Hyderabad, Knight Frank India.
According to the report, H1
2020 was amongst the lowest pe-
riods for the residential market in
Hyderabad as sales hit a decadal
low and launches grew but not at
the 2019 rate of growth.
"Launches fell by 19 per cent
YoY, this half-year. Key contribut-
ing factors to this fall include a halt
in all construction activity during
the lockdown period, low sales on
account of market uncertainties,
scarcer credit availability for de-
velopers, hike in prices of inputs
such as steel and cement, and the
lack of availability of construction
workers in the post-lockdown
phase." Sales recorded a 43 per YoY
fall with 4,782 units sold in H1
2020. This has been the lowest
recorded sales figure for the city in
this decade. Demand was strong
until the pre-Covid period of Jan-
uary to March 2020 and was only
restricted by the low availability of
supply. Things took a sharp turn in
the aftermath of the Covid crisis
and the subsequent lockdowns.
bounces back as
curbs lifted
Continued from P1
Judging by the o�cial data,
analysts say it is a turnaround of
sorts for the world's second-
largest economy, which is the
first one to recover from the
coronavirus crisis without the
hassles of lockdowns experi-
enced by almost all countries in
the world.
As it came out from the coro-
navirus crisis in March-April,
port-reliant China's economy
going forward as it faced inten-
sified conflict with the US and
the negative fallout on its exter-
nal trade due to Beijing's in-
creasingly aggressive policies to-
wards India, Hong Kong, Taiwan
and the South China Sea result-
ing in bans of its products and
services.
China's GDP took the worst
hit since the disastrous Cultural

Twitter bites into Bitcoin bait

Archakas and told them that
they were ready to suspend dar-
shan once again because there
should be no disruption in the
daily kainkaryams of Lord
Venkateswara.
The Archakas, he said, were of
the opinion that there was no
away from duties at Tirumala
and instead will be redeployed
in temples like Bhu Varaha
Swamy, Bedi Anjaneya Swamy
temples so that their contact
with the pilgrims would be min-
imal or in shrines in Tirupati
down the hills.
Continued from P1
"Everyone is asking me to
give back, and now is the time,"
Gates' tweet said, promising to
double all payments to a Bitcoin
curely." Jack Dorsey, Twitter's
chief executive, said in a post on
Wednesday night that it was a
“tough day for us at Twitter. We
all feel terrible that this hap-
China cashed on growing Covid-
174 Indians file lawsuit 19 demand for medical equip-
ment from all around the world
against presidential by exporting billions of dollars'
proclamation on H1B worth of materials.
Analysts, however, predict it
Continued from P1 would be an uphill climb for ex-
"This misguided attempt by the pres-
ident to scapegoat immigrants for pol-
Revolution in 1976, plummeting
by 6.8 per cent in the first quar-
ter of 2020 as the country took
unprecedented measures to
fight the coronavirus pandemic
that brought the economy to a
standstill.

PM Modi to address UNESC session today

address for the next 30 minutes.
32-yr-old man found hanging in AIIMS Delhi All the tweets were subse-
quently deleted. "Once we be-
Continued from P1 came aware of the incident, we
Patel was taken to the emergency area, where doctors declared immediately locked down the
him brought dead, police said. Police said a ligature mark was found a�ected accounts and removed
over the anterior aspect of the neck. No suicide note has been re- Tweets posted by the attackers,"
covered so far and an investigation into the matter is underway, the Twitter said.
DCP added. The man is survived by his wife and a son, police said. "We have locked accounts
This is the third case of suicide in the AIIMS since last 10 days. On that were compromised and
July 6, a 37-year-old journalist allegedly jumped o� the fourth floor will restore access to the origi-
of the hospital building. On July 10, a 25-year-old junior resident nal account owner only when
doctor allegedly jumped o� the 10th floor of the hostel. we are certain we can do so se-
pened. We're diagnosing and
will share everything we can
when we have a more complete
understanding of exactly what
happened,” The New York
Times reported.
A spokesperson for Biden's
campaign told The Hill that
Twitter locked down the pre-
sumptive Democratic presiden-
tial nominee's account and re-
moved the tweet "immediately
following the breach."
icy failures during the pandemic not
only serves to hurt immigrants but dis-
misses the true problem of a broken
work visa programme that is in desper-
ate need of reform," said the letter. The
letter among others was signed by con-
gressmen Joaquin Castro, Chair of the
Congressional Hispanic Caucus; Bobby
Scott, Chair of the Education and Labor
Committee; Karen Bass, Chair of the
Congressional Black Caucus; Judy Chu,
Raul Grijalva, Vicente Gonzalez, Yvette
Clarke and Linda Sánchez.
Continued from P1
The theme of the High-Level Segment of the ECOSOC, on the
75th anniversary of the founding of the UN, also resonates with
India's Security Council priority, wherein India has called for a
reformed multilateralism' in a post-COVID-19 world.
It also recalls India's role, as the holder of the inaugural
Presidency of ECOSOC (Sir Ramaswami Mudaliar, in 1946).
The Prime Minister had earlier delivered the keynote ad-
dress virtually at the 70th anniversary of the ECOSOC in Janu-
ary 2016.

BIZ BRIEFS
TDSAT reserves
order on VIL
New Delhi: The Telecom Dis-
putes Se�lement and Appellate
Tribunal (TDSAT) on Thursday re-
served its judgement on Voda-
fone Idea's pe��on against the
TRAI's direc�ve blocking its pre-
mium 'RedX' plan. The verdict is
likely to be announced by Friday.
Defending its direc�ve, the Tele-
com Regulatory Authority of In-
dia (TRAI) told the tribunal that
its ac�on of blocking the plan
was a prudent and propor�onate
exercise of statutory power. Cit-
ing viola�on of norms and likely
impact on the quality of services
for other subscribers out of the
concerned plans, the regulator,
through a le�er to both Voda-
fone Idea and Bhar� Airtel last
week, blocked their respec�ve
plans of 'RedX' and 'Pla�num'.
Amazon unveils
skill programme
Hyderabad: Amazon India has
launched a skilling programme
under the Na�onal Appren�ce-
ship Promo�on Scheme (NAPS),
across its fulfilment centres in
India. The company aims at
training youth whose learning
journey or placement was im-
pacted due to Covid-19 pan-
demic. Appren�ces will be
iden�fied through various
sources including NSDC-accred-
ited training centres (DDU-GKY
Centres) and the NSDC Skilling
Database. This programme will
enable Amazon India to con-
tribute to the government’s
commitment towards skilling
and increasing employability of
the appren�ces. During the six-
month programme, the appren-
�ces will be trained on ware-
housing and inventory
management skills for the roles
of warehouse associates and
process associates.
Pizza Hut’s
initiative
Hyderabad: Pizza Hut strength-
ened its contactless delivery and
takeaway services in the city. The
experien�al contactless service
has especially been curated for
all the customers who want their
pizza right out of the oven, un-
touched by any human hand.
With an increase in customer de-
mand for contactless op�ons,
Pizza Hut introduced contactless
delivery and contactless take-
away where the brand has expe-
rienced a significant uptake cur-
rently. Pizza Hut ensures
maximum level of safety and hy-
giene to its customers who
choose to either pick-up their or-
der from the store or get the order
delivered at their doorstep. Pizza
lovers just need to simply place or-
ders on the Pizza Hut app, m-site,
website or via the menu board in
restaurants. Neha, Marke�ng Di-
rector, Pizza Hut India, said, “Post
unlock, more people are moving
out for work and need access to
safe and hygienic food while many
con�nue to work from home and
are looking for Home-Meal-Re-
placement op�ons”.
IBM teams up
with Verizon
New York: Verizon Business
and IBM on Thursday an-
nounced to work together on
5G and edge computing inno-
vation to help enable the fu-
ture of Industry 4.0. The com-
panies would combine the
high speed and low latency of
Verizon's 5G and Multi-access
Edge Compute (MEC) capabili-
ties, Internet of Things (IoT)
devices and sensors at the
edge, and IBM's expertise in
AI, hybrid multicloud.
"Through this collaboration,
we plan to build upon our
longstanding relationship with
Verizon to help industrial en-
terprises capitalize on joint
solutions that are designed to
be multicloud ready, secured
and scalable, from the data
centre all the way out to the
enterprise edge," said Bob
Lord, Sr VP, Cognitive Applica-
tions, IBM.
TODAY’S QUOTE
Centre will find solution to local tax issues
“
Central government will find solu�on for issues related
to local taxes, such as electricity duty, as they make
domes�c manufacturers uncompe��ve. We are
conscious of this problem par�cularly because other
countries may not be having a coal cess or mandi tax
– Industry Minister Piyush Goyal
Silver shines bright,
hits 7-yr high at MCX
Silver futures rise to `53,199 per kg as industrial demand picks up
New Delhi: Silver has gained
more sheen on expectation of a
revival of industrial demand as
economic activities are gradually
restarting despite the Covid-19
pandemic across the globe.
Prices of the metal are ruling at
nearly a 7-year high in India's fu-
ture and spot markets.
Bullion market analysts say
silver has attracted investment
demand as it is an industrial
metal and its demand for jew-
ellery has also gained amid a
bullish trend in bullion in the
pandemic season.
Silver has even outpaced gold
as the Gold/Silver Ratio - which
tracks the two precious metals'
relative prices - is down to 93, the
lowest in three weeks from the
all-time high of 127 in mid-
March, said Ajay Kedia, Director,
Kedia Advisory. The ratio had
slumped to 31 when silver
touched over Rs 70,000 per kg in
2013, he added.
Silver futures rose to Rs 53,199
per kg on Thursday in the do-
mestic market, the highest level
since September 2013.
However, bullion witnessed a
little correction in the domestic
and international futures on
profit-booking, but the funda-
mentals are still bullish, said a
market analyst.
At the Multi Commodity Ex-
change (MCX), the silver con-
tract expiring in September was
Privatisation
only option
for Air India
New Delhi: Civil Aviation Min-
ister Hardeep Singh Puri on
Thursday said that no other op-
tion is left with Air India but to
go in for privatisation. Replying
to a question during a press
briefing on civil aviation issues,
the minister said that the airline
cannot depend on state funding
to survive. He cited that due to
the Covid-19-induced economic
turbulance the Centre might
not be in a position to support
the airline as massive financial
resources have been deployed
to safeguard the vulnarable sec-
tions of society. Furthermore,
the minister without naming
anyone said the airline should
be left to those who know how
to run it. He was replying to
question on sharp political re-
actions that have been re-
ceived on social media regard-
ing the airline's 'Leave
without Pay' policy.
RBI asks ARCs to adopt ‘Revenue of cotton spinners will contract 25-30%’
fair practices code
Rating agency Icra says Covid-19 has disrupted spinning activities
Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of In-
dia on Thursday asked asset re-
construction companies (ARCs)
to adopt a board-approved 'Fair
Practices Code', which, among
other things, should prohibit the
use of uncivilised, unlawful and
questionable
behaviour for
recovery of
loans.
The Code,
the central
bank said,
should also en-
sure trans-
parency and
fairness in op-
eration.
ARCs buy bad loans from banks
to turn them around. "In order to
achieve the highest standards of
transparency and fairness in deal-
ing with stakeholders, asset re-
construction companies are ad-
vised to put in place Fair Practices
Code (FPC) duly approved by
their board," the RBI said.
It has prescribed the minimum
regulatory expectation, while
each ARC's board is free to en-
hance its scope and coverage. The
trading at Rs 52,766 per kg, down
Rs 292 from last session, while
prices rose to Rs 53,199 per kg
during the session, the highest
level after September 10, 2013
when silver prices rose to Rs
53,955 per kg at the MCX.
August expiry contract of gold
was trading at Rs 49,040 per 10
grams, after slipping from the
day's high of Rs 49,159 per 10
grams. At the MCX, gold rose to
record high of Rs 49,348 per 10
grams on July 8.
Gold and silver have witnessed
temporary corrections and fun-
damentals are still bullish, said
Surendra Mehta, Secretary, In-
dia Bullion and Jewellers Asso-
ciation. Silver is an industrial
metal and its demand for indus-
trial usage is expected to in-
crease with reopening of indus-
try worldwide after lockdown
Global oil giants show interest in
BPCL as bidding deadline nears
Saudi Aramco, Adnoc, Rosneft of Russia and Exxon Mobil likely to take part
New Delhi: As the deadline for
submitting the Expressions of In-
terest (EoI) for 52.98 per cent
stake in the Bharat Petroleum
Corporation Ltd (BPCL) nears, big
names in the global oil market are
showing interest in picking up the
majority stake in the state-run oil
company.
According to o�cial sources,
Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi Na-
tional Oil Co (Adnoc), Rosneft of
Russia and Exxon Mobil intend to
participate in the bidding process
for the PSU. The deadline for sub-
mitting EoIs has been postponed
twice and the current deadline
ends on July 31.
Indian oil majors are not behind
their global counterparts and are
also actively pursuing the
prospects of bidding for BPCL. Oil-
to-telecom major Reliance Indus-
The code prohibits
the use of uncivilised
and ques�onable
behaviour for
recovery of loans
FPC must be followed in right
earnest, and the board must in-
volve itself in its evolution and
proper implementation at all
times, it added.
"ARC shall follow transparent
and non-discriminatory prac-
tices in acquisition of assets. It
shall maintain arm's length dis-
tance in the pursuit of trans-
parency," it said while asking
them that FPC should be placed
in public domain for information
of all stakeholders.
COVID
Crude oil crash adds to fin stress of States
Crude oil price crash amid the coronavirus pandemic
has further hit the finances of State governments as it
has badly depleted yet another source of revenue.
States having oil and gas exploration and production
blocks get hefty royalty on production of the
hydrocarbons with rates varying from 7.5% to 12.5%
due to Covid-19 pandemic, he
added.
Physical gold sold at a pre-
mium in India last week for the
first time this year, driven by
plunging imports and a near halt
in smuggling that o�set the im-
pact of high unemployment and
a rise in domestic prices across
Asia that could deter buyers.
As per market analysts, the
medium-term outlook for the
economic recovery still looks
very uncertain and this contin-
ues to provide ample room for
gold and silver to float higher.
The Silver Institute indicated
that silver investment demand
increased by 10 per cent in the
first half of 2020 as industrial de-
mand declined in the early pan-
demic season but started to pick
up from May as economies began
to reopen, said Kedia.
tries is understood to have shown
interest for the bid. The disinvest-
ment in BPCL involves the gov-
ernment selling its entire 52.98
per cent stake in the company to a
strategic investor with transfer of
management control. The govern-
ment has barred PSUs from bid-
ding for BPCL and expects private
sector Indian players and global
MNCs to bid for its stake.
The Centre has allowed
prospective bidders with a mini-
mum net worth of $10 billion to
present their bids. Another condi-
Mumbai: Revenue of Indian cot-
ton spinners is likely to decline
by 25-30 per cent year-on-year
in 2020-21 due to Covid-19 pan-
demic-led disruptions in manu-
facturing activities and weakness
in demand in global as well as do-
mestic markets, Icra Ratings said
in a report.
This will further add to the
woes of the sector which saw an
estimated 5-7 per cent decline in
revenue and 200-250 basis
points (bps) correction in oper-
ating margins in FY20, it said.
The Indian cotton spinning sec-
tor is expected to log a 25-30 per
cent y-o-y decline in revenue and
a 300-400 bps contraction in op-
erating margins in FY21 amid
Covid-19-led disruptions in man-
ufacturing activities, and an all-
encompassing weakness in de-
mand from the downstream
segments, within as well as out-
side the country, Icra Ratings
said.
According to the report, the
business outlook appears adverse
owing to an inventory pile-up be-
ing witnessed across the value
Markets rally as Infy
soars post Q1 show
Mumbai: Equity benchmark
Sensex rallied 420 points on
Thursday, led by stellar gains in
IT major Infosys, even as global
markets faced selling pressure
amid spiking coronavirus cases.
After a choppy start, the 30-
share BSE Sensex gained mo-
mentum towards the end of the
session. It finally closed 419.87
points, or 1.16 per cent, higher at
36,471.68.
Similarly, the NSE Nifty
surged 121.75 points, or 1.15 per
cent, to end at 10,739.95. Infosys
was the top performer in the
Sensex pack, rallying 9.56 per
cent, a day after the IT major
posted a stronger-than-expected
12.4 per cent rise in first quarter
consolidated net profit to Rs
4,272 crore.
M&M, Nestle India, IndusInd
Bank, Kotak Bank, HCL Tech,
Bajaj Finance and Axis Bank
were the other gainers, spurting
up to 3.81 per cent. On the other
hand, Tech Mahindra, ITC,
NPTC, PowerGrid, Titan and
ICICI Bank finished with losses
of up to 2.54 per cent.
According to traders, rally in
IT stocks led by Infosys kept in-
vestor sentiment positive, but a
massive sello� in Chinese stocks
and concerns over recovery amid
rising Covid-19 cases induced
volatility in the session. Bourses
in Shanghai plunged 4.50 per
cent as investors seemed disap-
pointed with the pace of recov-
ery in the world's second-largest
economy. China's gross domestic
product (GDP) expanded 3.2 per
cent year-on-year in the second
quarter of 2020, the country's
tion pertains to a maximum of
four members are permitted in a
consortium, and the lead member
must hold 40 per cent in propor-
tion. Other members of the con-
sortium must have a minimum $1
billion net worth. The EOI allows
changes in the consortium within
45 days, though the lead member
cannot be changed. The Indian
government proposes to disinvest
its entire shareholding in BPCL
comprising 1,14,91,83,592 equity
shares held through the Ministry
of Petroleum and Natural Gas,
which constitutes 52.98 per cent
of BPCL's equity share capital,
along with the transfer of manage-
ment control to the strategic buyer
(except BPCL's equity sharehold-
ing of 61.65 per cent in Numaligarh
Refinery Ltd (NRL) and manage-
ment control thereon).
chain, which is likely to keep de-
mand from downstream seg-
ments subdued over the next few
quarters, while keeping working
Mumbai: Domestic rating agency Icra
has revised its forecast for contraction
in the country's GDP in the current fis-
cal to 9.5 per cent from 5 per cent ear-
lier, as continued lockdowns in some
states have affected the recovery seen
in May and June.
Most of the analysts have projected
the country's GDP to contract in the
range of 5-6.5 per cent in this fiscal.
"We have sharply revised our fore-
cast for the contraction in Indian GDP
in FY2021 (at constant 2011-12 prices),
to 9.5 per cent from our earlier assess-
FOREX (buy rates in `)
US Dollar 79.7
Euro 89.99
UAE Dirham 22.51
Thai Baht 2.73
British Pound 98.11
Australian Dollar 55.12
Canadian Dollar 58.35
Swiss Franc 82.77
Sensex adds 420
points while Ni�y
up 122 points
National Bureau of Statistics
said earlier in the day.
Following negative cues from
Chinese equities, benchmarks in
Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul
ended on a weak note. Stock ex-
changes in Europe were also
trading in the red in early deals.
"Ground realities remained
little changed, as the virus infec-
tions and geopolitical tensions
created uncertainty on the
global economic recovery. In-
vestors need to remain stock
specific and the earnings results
and commentary should be
watched out for," said Vinod
Nair, Head of Research at Geojit
Financial Services.
BSE IT, teck, healthcare,
bankex, auto, oil and gas, finance
and metal indices surged up to
4.14 per cent, while telecom,
power and utilities indices
closed lower. The BSE mid-cap
index rose 0.71 per cent, while
the small-cap gauge slipped 0.13
per cent.
VSEZ gives nod for 4 IT
units in Hyderabad
HANS BUSINESS
Hyderabad: The Visakhapatnam
Special Economic Zone (VSEZ)
on Thursday said that its Unit
Approval Committee (UAC) ac-
corded approval for four new
IT/ITeS units in Telangana. All
these units will come up in Hy-
derabad.
“Covid-19 pandemic has not
deterred entrepreneurs from
setting up new IT/ITeS units in
Telangana. Approval has been
given for four new IT/ITeS units
in the State, which entail invest-
ments of Rs 116 crore. These
companies provide 2,292 jobs
and will achieve exports of Rs
1,364 crore in the next five
years,” said A Rama Mohan
Reddy, Development Commis-
sioner, VSEZ. The new IT/ITeS
units for which approval have
been given include Aricent
Technologies (Holdings), Alliant
capital requirements high.
"The main reason for the slow
recovery has been the sluggish-
ness in demand in the down-
India’s GDP
will de-grow
9.5% in FY21
ment of 5 per cent, with the climbing
Covid-19 infections resulting in a spate
of localised lockdowns in some states
and cities, arresting the nascent re-
covery that had set in during May-June
2020," the rating agency said in a re-
port. It said the country's economy
may have contracted by a sharp 25
South
African Rand 5.18
Hong Kong Dollar 11.15
Japanese Yen 0.81
New Zealand Dollar 51.72
Saudi Riyal 22.05
Swedish Krona 9.51
Singapore Dollar 56.67
DELHI FRIDAY 17 JULY 2020
Nasscom, 11 tech
bodies form
global council
New Delhi: Twelve independ-
ent organisations represent-
ing technology and business
services sector across the
globe, including India's IT
body Nasscom, have joined
hands to launch the Global
Technology and Business
Services Council (GT&BSC).
The council aims to demon-
strate how the global tech in-
dustry dealt with the Covid-19
crisis ensuring business conti-
nuity and employee safety, the
critical support it provides to
various sectors, and the role of
highly skilled tech workers
and the essential services they
provide, a statement said.
GT&BSC includes associa-
tions from Bosnia, Bulgaria,
Czech Republic, Egypt, India,
Latin America, Latvia,
Malaysia, Poland, Romania,
Russia, South Africa, Sri
Lanka, Ukraine, the US and
the UK, and collectively rep-
resent the interests of over
10,000 organisations, includ-
ing multi-nationals, indige-
nous tech companies, SMEs,
and start-ups. "The one thing
that is common in keeping
multiple industries afloat
during these trying times and
enabling them to transform
into digital businesses is
'technology'. Shared e�orts
by governments, interna-
tional organisation and global
businesses remind us of our
connectivity and interde-
pendency and why it is im-
portant to retain the global
nature of the tech industry,"
Nasscom Vice President
Global Trade Development
Shivendra Singh said.
A Rama Mohan Reddy
Group India Talent, TDCX Dig-
ilab India, and Model N India
Software. All these new units
will come up in private SEZs of
Laxmi Infobahn, Divija Com-
mercial Properties, and Sundew
Properties, all located in Hyder-
abad. Based in Visakhapatnam,
VSEZ has jurisdiction over three
States of AP, Telangana and
Chhattisgarh besides Yanam. As
many as 85 SEZs have been no-
tified under VSEZ so far, and out
of them, 58 are fully operational
with 509 units.
stream segments of fabrics and
apparels. The trend has been
weaker in the domestic market,
where consumer-discretionary
spending and consumer foot-
falls in markets remains
abysmal, particularly in metros
and tier-I markets," Icra Ratings
Senior VP and Group Head
Jayanta Roy said.
"Yarn, being an intermediate
product, is resultantly facing a
ripple e�ect of the contraction in
demand in the downstream seg-
ments," he added.
per cent in the first quarter of FY21,
and expects a shallow recovery in the
subsequent quarters, with a contrac-
tion of 12.4 per cent in the second
quarter of FY21 and a milder 2.3 per
cent in the third quarter, followed by
a growth of 1.3 per cent in the fourth
quarter of FY21. Icra's principal econ-
omist Aditi Nayar said the Indian econ-
omy had started to recover from the
troughs experienced in April 2020,
when the lockdown was at its sever-
est, and many sectors seemed to be
adjusting to the new normal.
 COVID-19

TESTING TIME 7

IIT Madras startup develops portable hospital

Chennai (IANS) Modulus
Housing, a startup incubated at
the Indian Institute of Technol-
ogy Madras (IIT-M) has devel-
oped a portable hospital unit
that can be installed anywhere
within two hours by four peo-
ple, said the IIT-M.
In a statement issued here on
Thursday, IIT-M said the
portable hospital called Med-
A nurse gives the baby to a woman on her discharge from Krishna Hospital iCAB is a decentralised ap-
a�er she recovered from Covid-19, during unlock 2.0, in Karad on Thursday proach to detect, screen, iden-
tify, isolate and treat Covid-19
Brazil Prez tests +ve again
Brasilia (IANS): Brazilian President Jair Bol-
sonaro confirmed that he has once again
OVER 32,000 CASES RECORDED IN 24 HOURS
patients in their local commu-
nities through these portable
microstructures.
According to IIT-M, Med-
iCAB has been recently de-
ployed in the Wayanad district
in Kerala to treat corna pa-
tients.
The startup is developing mi-
cro hospitals that can be de-
ployed rapidly across the na-
tion. The MediCAB is foldable
and is composed of four zones -
a doctor's room, an isolation
room, a medical room/ward and
a twin-bed ICU, maintained at
negative pressure.
The startup collaborated with
Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for
Medical Sciences and Technol-
ogy (SCTIMST) who provided
inputs on the certifications and
customisations necessary for
the project.
The company Modulus Hous-
ing founded by two IIT alumni
in 2018, was supported by the
IIT-M Incubation Cell and has a
vision to revolutionise housing
through modular prefab struc-
tures.
They have re-purposed their
designs to support the fight
against Covid-19.
"The outcome of this pilot
project in Kerala will help in
proving the applicability of the
technology and advantages of
micro hospitals, with MediCAB
as an instant infrastructure so-
lution. It can be easily assem-
bled in eight hours by four peo-
ple. When folded, our
collapsible cabins are reduced
five-fold, making it very cost-ef-
fective for transportation,"
Shreeram Ravichandran, Chief
Executive O�cer said.
No postal ballot for

‘10 lakh test per day soon’

tested posi�ve for the novel coronavirus,
roughly a week a�er he contracted the virus.
those above 65: EC
"We hope that in the next few days, they will New Delhi: The Election Com-
give me a new test and, everything will be fine mission (EC) has decided not to
so that we can return to normal ac�vity," Xinhua news agency quoted extend the facility of postal ballot
the President as saying in a live Facebook broadcast on Wednesday. to electors above 65 years of age
Bolsonaro, who repeatedly played down the risks posed by the virus
which he termed "a li�le flu" and asser�ng that he would not be seri-
ously affected by it, said he would get tested again in a few days.In a
63% patients in India recover: Centre in the Assembly elections in Bi-
har and by-elections due in the
near future, said the law body's
statement, the communica�on secretariat of the presidency said that New Delhi (IANS): Union Health India has 3,31,146 active o�cials on Thursday.
Bolsonaro was currently staying at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, Minister Harsh Vardhan said, Covid-19 cases, which is around However, the EC in a state-
"and con�nues to be accompanied by the medical team". here on Thursday, the Covid-19 a third of the country's total tally ment said the facility of optional
testing capacity would be en- that rose to 9.68 lakh on Thurs- postal ballot to electors who are
hanced to 10 lakh a day in 12 day, the Union Health ministry above 80 years of age, voters with
96 J&K prisoners infected weeks. He said this while inaugu- said and credited targeted meas- physical disabilities, electors en-
Srinagar: At least 96 inmates at a jail in rating the new Rajkumari Amrit ures for the steady decline in ac- gaged in essential services and
South Kashmir's Anantnag district have Kaur (RAK) OPD block of the All tive caseload. voters who are COVID-19 posi-
tested posi�ve for the Coronavirus �ll India Institute of Medical Sci- As the country witnessed a tive or are in quarantine (home
Thursday. Sources told Outlook that the ences (AIIMS), here. record single-day increase of or institutional) will be extended
District Legal Service Authority chairman "The capacity will be enhanced 32,695 cases on Thursday, the in these elections.
has wri�en to the Deputy Commissioner of to 10 lakh tests a day in the com- ministry said the recovery rate Earlier this month, the Bihar
Anantnag about the rising cases of Coron- ing 12 weeks," the Minister said. rose to 50 per cent mid-June and State Election Commission had
avirus in the prison. A jail staffer and a contractor have also been re- "Gradually, we are moving in thereafter there has been a said that coronavirus patients
ported to have contracted the virus. An official communica�on says the direction to win the battle steady rise in recoveries and a and those above the age of 65 will
the first case was reported in the prison on July 10, then four cases against the pandemic" which had Devotees wearing personal protec�ve equipment pray as the mortal remains of decline in the number of active be allowed to vote from home or
were reported on July 13 and which soared to 44 on Tuesday July 14. infected 9,68,876 people across Purusho�ampriyadasji Swamishree Maharaj, head priest of Maninagar Shree cases. use postal ballot in the elections
the country, he said. Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan, arrives for his funeral rituals, on Smru� Temple "Of the total Covid-19 cases, scheduled for later this year.
He said less than 2 per cent of premises in Ahmedabad 63.25 per cent have recovered However, the EC said that this
Aus State records biggest daily spike the Covid-19 patients were ad- with a death total of 24,915 the During the last 24 hours, so far. Simultaneously, there has will not be possible in view of
Melbourne (IANS): Australia's Victoria state mitted in intensive care units Health Ministry's data stated on 3,26,826 samples were tested, as been a steady dip in the number "constraints of logistics, man-
on Thursday recorded its biggest daily in- (ICUs) and the lab network had Thursday. the testing lab network continues of active cases, from around 45 power and safety protocols of
crease of COVID-19 infec�ons since the pan- been strengthened from 1 in Jan- According to Health Ministry to expand. As on date, more than per cent in mid-June to around Covid-19 in view of the pan-
demic began, with 317 confirmed cases. Vic- uary to 1,234 now. As on date, data, as many as 6,12,814 patients 1,206 labs have enabled people to 34.18 per cent as of now," the demic".
toria is the centre of a renewed COVID-19 more than 3.26 samples were be- have recovered, almost twice the undergo coronavirus tests. ministry. Last October, the Law Ministry
outbreak in Australia, with close to 2,800 new infec�ons in July alone, ing tested per day, he added. number of active patients at Maharashtra remained the A total of 20,783 people have amended the Conduct of Elec-
reports Xinhua news agency. According to Victoria Premier Daniel An- India recorded the highest sin- 3,31,146. The rate of recovery has worst-hit state, with 2,75,640 recuperated in the past 24 tion Rules to allow people with
drews, 289 of Thursday's cases remained under inves�ga�on by health gle-day spike of 32,695 novel touched 63.24 per cent. India, cases and 10,928 casualties fol- hours, the highest number of re- disabilities and those who are 80
experts, while 28 were connected to known clusters. Andrews also re- coronavirus (Covid-19) cases and however, remains the third lowed by Tamil Nadu with total coveries in a day, taking the total years of age or above to opt for
vealed that two men in their 80s had died a�er contrac�ng the virus, 606 deaths in the last 24 hours, worst-a�ected country after the 1,51,820 cases, including 2,167 number of recovered cases to postal ballot during the Lok
taking the na�onal death toll to 113. Meanwhile, the neighbouring pushing the tally to 9,68,876 cases US and Brazil. deaths. 6,12,814. Sabha and assembly elections.
state of New South Wales (NSW) recorded 10 new cases of COVID-19

Maha’s 1 woman SEC succumbs

and South Australia reported just one new infec�on, while the rest of
the country reported zero increase.
st
2k register to volunteer B'luru police
Bengaluru (IANS): More than 2,000 people have ArrayMumbai(IANS) Multi- sitive person who excelled in the
registered to volunteer as civil police wardens faceted personality and retired field of arts and literature, in-
with Bengaluru police department's south divi- IAS o�cer Neela Satayanarayana spired youth towards civil serv-
sion to assist in regula�on and an�-Covid meas- - who created history as the first ices" and making the SEC closer
ures, an official said on Thursday. "More than woman State Election Commis- to the masses.
2,000 people have registered in south division to become civil police sioner (SEC) - succumbed to Expressing shock, Deputy
cadets," said an official. The volunteers are expected to accompany Covid-19 at a hospital, o�cial Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said
policemen in night rounds, man check posts, answer ques�ons of the sources said here on Thursday. that her contributions to gover-
general public and assist sta�on house officer. Likewise, they also have An IAS o�cer of the 1972 nance and literature will always
to assist in documenta�on and computer work at police sta�on level, batch, Satyanarayana, 71, held poet, lyricist, singer, composer be an inspiration for all.
enforce social distancing and wearing face masks among public. many important posts in the and music director who had com- Grieving over Neela Satya-
state government and finally posed songs for scores of Marathi narayana's demise, state Con-
crowned her 42-years of bureau- films and a couple of Bollywood gress President and Revenue
Meghalaya closes borders cratic service with the post SEC. movies. Minister Balasaheb Thorat said
Byrnihat: All entry points of Meghalaya lo- Popular as "a people-friendly She had been admitted to a that she was "a tough adminis-
cated at Byrnihat, Ratacherra, Bajengdoba, IAS o�cer", she was reputed for suburban government hospital a trator and also a sensitive au-
Tikrikilla, Mirjumla and Hallidayganj will re- her fearless approach, never few days ago for Corona treat- thor" and her untimely death was
main closed from midnight of July 23 to mid- bending before the political class ment and breathed her last early saddening.
night of July 31, an order issued by the Chief vis-A-vis public interest during today, shocking state political Nationalist Congress Party
Secretary of the state said. "Only movement the course of duties across sev- circles. President Sharad Pawar ex-
related to emergency, medical and essen�al service, good and inter- eral departments in the state Condoling her death, Chief pressed grief and said "She was
state transit vehicles will be allowed during this period. All persons government. Minister Uddhav Thackeray said the first woman SEC.. We have Poonam Sharma, a physical educa�on teacher, takes
who intend to visit/return to Meghalaya are requested to reschedule Besides, Neela Satyanarayana the state will always remember lost a humane and empathic ex- ONLINE online class for school students during the Covid-19
their travel plans," Chief Secretary's orders stated. made mark as a prolific writer, her as "an experienced and sen- o�cer". PT CLASS lockdown, in Mumbai on Thursday

Fauci says WH’s e�orts

2 TN District collectors infected Bengaluru hospitals short of staff
Chennai (IANS): District Collectors of Coimbatore and
Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu have tested posi�ve for Bengaluru(IANS): Several private hospitals in

to discredit him bizarre

coronavirus and have been admi�ed in hospitals. the city are facing acute shortage of doctors,
Coimbatore Collector K. Rajamani and Kancheepuram nurses, ward boys and helpers amid the raging
Collector P. Ponniah tested Covid-19 posi�ve a�er their swab samples Covid-19 pandemic, an official said on Thurs-
results came on Wednesday. According to officials, their condi�on is day.
stable. This is the first �me, District Collectors have tested posi�ve for "There is actually acute shortage of man- Washington(IANS): Amer- Fauci.
coronavirus in Tamil Nadu. Earlier three ministers and several other power in Bengaluru hospitals, especially ica's top infectious diseases Among the attacks against
legislators have turned Covid-19 pa�ents in the state. nurses, ward boys and aayahs (helpers). Even expert Anthony Fauci has de- the leading expert, presiden-
before Covid, we had a little shortage but after scribed the "bizarre" attacks tial adviser Peter Navarro
Covid they all left in droves," Karnataka chap- from White House offi- wrote in an op-ed pub-
20 affected at Bihar Guv’s house ter Indian Medical Association (IMA) official cials against him lished in USA Today
Patna: Around 20 members tested posi�ve Ravindra told IANS. as "nonsense" on Tuesday that
for COVID-19 on Wednesday at the Bihar He roughly estimated the shortage to be and "com- Fauci "has
Governor, Phagu Chauhan's house in Patna, 6,000 doctors and about 12,000 - 18,000 nurses pletely been wrong
state officials informed. Earlier on the same and ward boys. wrong". about every-
day, Bihar Bhara�ya Janata Party state presi- A major reason Ravindra cited for the short- "I can- thing I have
dent and Lok Sabha MP from Be�ah, Sanjay age is the fear of contracting the virus amid the not figure interacted
Jaiswal, his wife and mother also tested posi�ve for coronavirus a�er pandemic as they discharge duties in hospitals. out in my with him
several BJP leaders from the party headquarters in Patna were diag- "Some of them cannot work because they are wildest on".
nosed posi�ve for the virus. As per data from the Ministry of Health pregnant or above 55, diabetic or other health dreams "I can't
and Family Welfare, Bihar now has a total of 19,284 posi�ve COVID problems. Some of them are not coming to why they explain Pe-
cases, including 6,261 ac�ve cases and 12,849 Recoveries. work although they did not leave the job," he would want ter Navarro,"
said. to do that," Fauci told The
Besides the scare of getting infected, the Xinhua news Atlantic. "He's
Odisha starts plasma therapy IMA official said some of the health workers agency quoted in a world by him-
Cu�ack: The Odisha government on Thursday themselves are already Covid positive, quar- Fauci, director of the self."
commenced plasma therapy for the treatment antined or admitted in hospitals. US National Institute of Al- "The attempt to discredit
of COVID- 19 pa�ents at a hospital in Cu�ack, In case of support sta�, he said most of them lergy and Infectious Diseases Fauci's public-health expert-
an official said. The procedure was conducted are migrant workers from Gulbarga and other and a key member of the ise is a political move, and
on a 48-year-old pa�ent at the Ashwini Hospital districts who panicked after seeing some videos White House Coronavirus one with disastrous implica-
for the first �me in the state, technical advisor to the health department Dr of Covid victims being dumped and buried. Task Force, as saying in an in- tions," the outlet said. "The
Jayant Panda said. "The pa�ent has been administered B-posi�ve plasma," "They said if I have to die, I don't want to die terview with The Atlantic Americans who believe the
he said. The state government had earlier announced that the plasma in Bengaluru. I will die and get buried in my published on Wednesday. White House's anti-science
therapy would also be introduced in the SUM Hospital and the Kalinga In- native place. After those videos went viral, The latest feedback came as campaign risk cutting them-
s�tute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar. quite a few have left," explained Ravindra, de- the White House reportedly selves off from potentially
ciphering the social media impact as well. stepped up efforts to discredit life-saving information."
8 SPORTS DELHI FRIDAY 17 JULY 2020

Odisha govt highlights financial support

to Dutee amid training funds row
Bhubaneswar (IANS): A day af-
ter ace sprinter Dutee Chand
issued a clarification saying she
isn't selling her car to raise
training funds, Odisha Govern-
ment highlighted the financial
support given to her over the
years.
It was earlier reported that
Dutee, who put up a now-
deleted Facebook post asking
potential buyers to get in touch
with her manager, was forced
to sell her car to raise funds for
her Tokyo Olympics training.
The Department of Sports
and Youth Services, Govern-
ment of Odisha, said in state-
ment that a total of Rs 4.09 cr
has been given to Dutee since
2015.
"Rs 3 crore as financial in-
centive for medals won at
Asian Games 2018. Rs 30 Lakhs
for training and financial sup-
port during 2015-19.Rs 50
Lakhs for training support for
Tokyo Olympics (released In
two instalments on 02/08/2019
and 27/12/2019)," the state-
ment read.
"The State government ap-
pointed Dutee Chand as
Group-A level o�cer in Odisha
Mining Corporation (A Gold
Category PSU). She is currently
drawing gross salary of Rs
84,604 (June 2020 salary) per
month. She is not required to
come to o�ce so that she is
able to concentrate full-time
on training.
"Accordingly, since her ap-
pointment in OMC, no o�cial
work has been allotted to her.
OMC provided Rs 29 Lakhs for
training and financial incen-
tives," the statement added.
Dutee, on Wednesday, had
said that she sold her sedan to
get some 'breathing space' and
not burden Kalinga Institute of
Industrial Technology (KIIT)
or the Odisha Government.
"I took to social media to sell
my car. I don't have the re-
sources to maintain luxury
cars, though I love them. I
never expressed that I am sell-
ing it to fund my training," Du-
tee said in a statement on her
Twitter account.
"Odisha Government and my
own KIIT University have al-
ways supported me. This does
not deny the fact that my train-
ing is very expensive, especially
for the 2021 Olympics.
"I just wanted to make a
point that this money could be
diverted for my training and a
car can be bought post covid
once I receive the money from
the State Government.
"With folded hands, I want to
say that I was neither com-
plaining nor making a show of
my lack of finance because I am
a daughter of the country and
my well-wishers are there to
keep me going. Bless me for my
training at Kalinga Stadium so
that my dream of getting a Gold
for my country comes true,"
wrote the 24-year-old.

ENGLAND VS WINDIES 2ND TEST, DAY 1

IOC reveals updated qualification
CHASE REMOVES BURNS process for postponed Tokyo Oly
Lausanne (IANS): The Interna-

AT STROKE OF LUNCH
tional Olympic Committee (IOC)
has declared June 29, 2021 as the
new qualification deadline for the
postponed Tokyo Olympics. Ac-
cordingly, the deadline for final en-
tries has been revised to July 5,

Archer’s exclusion blow for England, says Vaughan
Manchester (IANS): England
openers Rory Burns and Dominic
Sibley got o� to a cautious start
but Roston Chase provided West
Indies with a crucial break-
through at the stroke of lunch.
With rain playing spoilsport, the
first session saw only one hour of
play on the opening day of the
second Test of #raisethebat se-
ries at Old Tra�ord on Thursday.
England, who are gunning to
level the series here in Manches-
ter, were put to bat by visiting skip-
per Jason Holder after he won the
toss, which was delayed by more
than an hour because of rain.
The run-up to the Test was
marred by controversy surround-
ing fast-bowler Jofra Archer, who
was ousted from the team for
breaking the bio-secure protocol.
But England openers put the dis-
traction behind them and put up
a cautious performance in the
first session of the day.
Things went well for the hosts
till the last over of the session as
on the second ball of the 14th
over, Chase trapped Burns in
front of the wicket and he was ad-
judged LBW for 15. He went for
the review but three reds meant
he had to head back into the hut.
With that, Lunch was taken by
the umpires.
Holder will be the happier man
going into the break as his deci-
sion to hand Chase the last over
before the break resulted in a
crucial breakthrough. In total,
five bowlers were used by the
visitors during the short session.
Brief Scores: England: 29/1 (Burns
15; Chase 1/1) vs West Indies.
Meanwhile, Former England
captains Nasser Hussain and
Michael Vaughan sympathised
with fast-bowler Jofra Archer
after the latter was axed from
the team for the second Test
against West Indies at the Old
Trafford.
Archer, who scalped three
wickets in the Southampton
Test which England lost by four
wickets, breached the bio-se-
cure bubble and was subse-
quently omitted from the squad
to face West Indies in the crucial
second Test of the ongoing three-
match series.
"It was a big shock. The bio-se-
cure environment has to stay,
otherwise players can be infected
and everything that has been put
in place gets thrown into tur-
moil," Hussain told Sky Sports.
"We don't know if it was just
naivety from Jofra or something
more serious. He's apologised,
it's a very unusual situation that
we find ourselves in and he's
made a mistake and apologised
for it. "His team-mates and cap-
tain will be disappointed. He's a
fabulous bowler and bowled re-
ally well in Southampton," he fur-
ther added.
Archer will now commence
five days of isolation and will un-
dergo two COVID-19 tests in this
period, which have to test nega-
tive before his self-isolation pe-
riod is lifted, England and Wales
Cricket Board (ECB) said in an
o�cial statement.
‘It's a blow for the England
side,Jofra Archer is a wonderful
cricketer. It's going to make it so
much more di�cult for England
to get back into the series,"
Vaughan told BBC Radio 5.
The ECB, meanwhile, said they
have informed the visitors re-
garding the issue and the latter
are satisfied with the measures
that have been imposed.
2021, the IOC said.
A total of 57 per cent of all the
qualification places had been con-
firmed by the time the Tokyo
Olympic was postponed due to the
coronavirus pandemic. Originally
scheduled to be held from July 24
to August 9 this year, the Games
will now be held from July 23 to
August 8, 2021. In order to adapt
the qualification systems for the
remaining places to the new tim-
ing of the Games, the qualification
system principles were updated,
approved by the Qualification Task
Force (acting on behalf of the IOC
Executive Board) and shared with
all the International Federations
(IF).
The updates included a number
of changes, such as an extended
qualification period and new dead-
lines:
N A new qualification deadline of 29
June 2021, based on the Olympic
Games starting on 23 July (day of
the Opening Ceremony);
N The potential extension of
sport-specific qualification pe-
riods if such an extension re-
spects the qualification period
deadline of 29 June 2021;
N The revised final entries dead-
line of 5 July 2021;
N If a qualification system speci-
fied age eligibility criteria, the
criteria should be extended to
cover the new dates, allowing
athletes who were eligible in
July 2020 to remain eligible in
2021. All eligibility and age cri-
teria would be at the discretion
of the respective IFs.
Athletics, cycling (BMX
Freestyle, BMX Racing and Moun-
tain Bike), weightlifting, basketball,
judo, rowing, swimming, bad-
minton, skateboarding, taekwondo
and wrestling have made minor ad-
justments to their qualification
systems. Meanwhile, the following
sports have extended the qualifi-
cation periods and continuing with
the initially approved qualification
process:
Archery, artistic swimming,
baseball, basketball 3x3, boxing,
canoe, diving, fencing, football,
golf, gymnastics (artistic, rhythmic
and trampoline), handball, karate,
marathon swimming, modern
pentathlon, rugby, sailing, shoot-
ing, sport climbing, surfing, table
tennis, tennis, triathlon and water
polo. IOC said that dates for all the
qualification event dates and loca-
tions "will be confirmed in due
course by the respective IFs."
Bach reluctant to
hold event behind
closed doors
Geneva (IANS): International
Olympic Committee (IOC)
President Thomas Bach on Fri-
day reiterated their desire to
hold Tokyo Olympics with spec-
tators in the stands and not be-
hind closed doors. The multi-
national event was initially set
to be hosted in July this year but
due to the COVID-19 pandemic,
it will now take place from July
23 till August 8 in 2021. Profes-
sional sports around the world
are getting back on their feet
as matches are being held be-
hind closed doors. However,
Bach ruled out the idea of do-
ing same with Olympics next
year. "(Our planning) includes
all di�erent countermeasures,
but no, an Olympic Games be-
hind closed doors is clearly
something we do not want,"
Bach told reporters via video-
conference.

Juventus held by Sassuolo, Milan defeat Parma Shooters want ‘compulsory’ tag removed from NRAI camp
Rome (IANS): Juventus' winless run has extended Kolkata (IANS): The National Ri- or something regarding this. another shooter.
to three games as they squandered a 2-0 lead on fle Association of India (NRAI) Even if all safety procedures are "There are so many shooters
their way to a 3-3 draw at Sassuolo in their latest may have to remove the 'compul- there, still will anyone take re- who live around Delhi. But shoot-
encounter in SerieA.On Wednesday, the Bianconeri sory' tag from their plans of hold- sponsibility if someone gets ers like us who stay in another
were up by two goals just 12 minutes into the game ing a camp for Olympic-bound COVID-19?" a top Tokyo-bound state can sometimes have to take
when Gonzalo Higuain smashed in from point- shooters as many are still not shooter told IANS on the condi- two flights to reach Delhi. That is
blank range seven minutes after Danilo's opener, sure about travelling for the same tion of anonymity. risky at this stage. At the range,
reports Xinhua news agency.However, Sassuolo keeping in the mind the current "Travelling to Delhi is another we will be taken care of and I am
came back in dramatic fashion as FilipDjuricic, COVID-19 scenario. thing. So many things need to be confident of that. But it is only
DomenicoBerardi and Francesco Caputo each The NRAI on Tuesday an- taken care of. They should first the travelling part," added the
scored to help the home side take the lead.The Old nounced that they will be con- release a domestic calendar that shooter.
Lady then threw on Paulo Dybala and AdrienRa- ducting the camp from August 1, a camp would have been better Coaches are expected to have
biot, and forced an equaliser in the 64th minute and it will be compulsory for all for us to plan. Anyway we are all a word with NRAI, some shoot-
when Alex Sandro headed home Rodrigo Bentan- 32 selected shooters to attend the secure environment, but leading training at home so that is not an ers said, about removing the
cur's corner.Despite their latest setback, Juventus still remain top of the SerieA table with 77 points, seven camp. shooters of the country are not issue," the shooter added. 'compulsory' part from the
ahead of second-placed Atalanta.Elsewhere, AC Milan continued their unbeaten run as the Rossoneri The NRAI has said they would convinced. "I think they (NRAI) will make camp keeping in mind the
rallied to defeat Parma 3-1 at the San Siro. be conducting the camp in a bio- "We did not get a formal mail it optional after a few days," said health crisis.

AIFF makes exception, gives EB till July

31 to finish Club Licensing process
Kolkata (IANS): City football gi-
ants East Bengal have been given
some breathing space by the All
India Football Federation
(AIFF) as the governing body of
football in the country decided
to extend the I-League outfit's
deadline on the Club Licensing
process by seven days.
The Club Licensing adminis-
tration of AIFF, on July 14, dis-
tributed the Club Licensing Ap-
plication Pack (CLAP) to all the
clubs who are eligible to undergo
the Indian Club Licensing
process for the 2020-21 season.
Clubs will have to confirm
their intention to undergo the
Indian Club Licensing process
for the 2020-21 season by sub-
mitting the signed copy of the
Club Licensing Agreement on or
before July 24, 2020, an AIFF
statement said. But an exception
has been made for East Bengal.
"Yes, up to 31st July as re-
quested by them," AIFF general
secretary Kushal Das told IANS
on Thursday.
It has been learnt that the re-
quest was made to AIFF by a di-
rector of Quess East Bengal after
they got the club licensing doc-
ument and deadline.
East Bengal are in troubled
waters after acrimoniously ter-
minating their tie-up with Quess
Corp, who had a 70 per cent
stake in the club. They had a
three-year deal but the Ben-
galuru-based investors exited on
May 31. But the same has not
been informed to AIFF despite
the sport's governing body in the
country asking them to inform
the club's status and change of
ownership structure. To acquire
the AFC Club licensing for the
2020-21 season, East Bengal has
to submit a valid declaration to
the AIFF, outlining the owner-
ship.
Will take a call on next move once full
tennis calendar is out, says Paes
DEBAYAN MUKHERJEE
Kolkata (IANS): Tennis legend
Leander Paes will wait for the
game to start again in full flow on
the other side of the COVID-19
pandemic before taking a call on
his peerless career spanning three
decades. Paes, who turned 47 re-
cently, had announced that 2020
would be his 'One Last Roar' sea-
son and Tokyo Olympic Games
was expected to be his swansong
event but the global pandemic cri-
sis put paid to his plans.
"Right now the most important
thing is health and safety. Now is
not the right time to plan a full
tennis calendar. Now is the time
to look after our family and our
community," Paes told IANS in
an exclusive interview.
"The US Open is supposed to
happen in August-September,
the French Open is slated for Oc-
tober. But I am seeing the surge
of COVID-19 cases going up in
America. For us Indian players,
it is not possible to travel at the
moment. I feel global travel for a
profession like tennis will only be
completely safe once the vaccine
is developed and available.
"In tennis, we are playing a
global sport. We have to travel all
over the world week after week.
We travel from airports to hotels
to stadiums and public places. To
restaurants and hence in this sit-
uation, it becomes di�cult," said
Paes who wants to leave behind
a legacy by playing his eighth suc-
cessive Olympics, which has now
been postponed to 2021.
"My whole team is enjoying a
well deserved break after 30
years of hard work and we will
evaluate the situation once the
tennis tour realistically looks at
starting in full flow again," said
the winner of 18 Grand Slams.
"The vastness of this pandemic
is quite astonishing. Neither can
you see it and in many a case, the
virus sits asymptomatic within us
humans. "The message here is
about social distancing, wearing a
mask so as to help not spread the
virus and looking after ourselves,
our families and our society."
"As this lockdown extends
week after week and we are all
forced to adapt, it is important to
stay happy, spend quality time in-
teracting with our loved ones us-
ing our smart gadgets and phones
and also reinventing ourselves to
this new normal.
"Many of us have been out of our
jobs for more than five to six
months now and stress, depres-
sion and boredom become rele-
vant. It is important to keep a
healthy daily routine incorporat-
ing a little physical fitness of walk-
ing and yoga and stretching, and
also engaging our minds with read-
ing and healthy discussions with
our family and peers. It is impor-
tant to take this time to introspect
and reinvent ourselves to live a
quality life and maximise all the
dreams we have," said Paes who
played his last tournament in the
Davis Cup in Croatia.
Paes expressed his concern on
the huge global economic down-
turn in the wake of this pan-
demic and how that would affect
every one of us. "Even in rela-
tion to the Tokyo Olympic
Games which has now been
moved to the summer of 2021,
it is important to stay in the
present and evaluate the situa-
tion week for week. We are all
uncertain when the vaccine will
be available and all be able to go
back to our normal lives.
Paes also highlighted the strug-
gle of Olympic athletes during
this time of no activity.

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