NEWS AN LIVE

India has rejected Canadian media reports linking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the death of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Calling the allegations "ludicrous" and "smear campaigns," India asserted that such claims damage the already strained relations between the two nations. The denial follows a Canadian news report alleging Indian government involvement in Nijjar's death, citing anonymous sources.

Balasaheb Shinde, a 43-year-old independent candidate contesting from the Beed assembly seat in Maharashtra, tragically passed away during the ongoing state elections. Shinde collapsed at a polling booth and was later pronounced dead at a private medical facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He was among 31 candidates vying for the Beed constituency seat.

India's Gsat-20 communication satellite, designed to boost broadband and in-flight connectivity, was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon-9 rocket from Florida. The satellite, weighing 4,700kg and built for a 14-year mission, is expected to significantly enhance communication infrastructure across India. This launch marks the first time India has utilized a US rocket for its space program.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, emphasizing India's commitment to fighting hunger and poverty. He highlighted India's successful initiatives in poverty reduction, food security, and healthcare, and expressed support for Brazil's proposal to establish a Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.