Thomas Cook collapses: Why and what happens now?

The work done under Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s flagship healthcare scheme Ayushman Bharat in the past one year has received commendation from the United Nations (UN), World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World bank alike, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Monday.

Speaking to ANI on the completion of the first year of Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), he said, "This biggest health insurance scheme has brought smiles on the faces of lakhs of people in the country. People are thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for this blessing. I am glad to inform that Ayushman Bharat scheme has been appreciated by the United Nations, World Health Organisation and World Bank."

Vardhan noted that more than 47 lakh people have received benefits worth Rs 7,500 crores in the past 12 months, and approximately 60 per cent of this amount has been spent on tertiary-care.

"Over 10 crore e-cards have been generated and about 18,000 hospitals have been empanelled under AB-PMJAY. Out of the total hospitals empanelled, 53 per cent are private, especially multi-speciality. There are 9 hospital admissions every minute across India," said the Health minister.

As of today, the scheme has been implemented in 32 States and Union Territories.

A unique feature of AB-PMJAY is its portability, which has helped atleast 42,631 eligible poor and migrant workers to seek treatment outside their states, said the health minister.

AB-PMJAY is the flagship scheme of Government of India that provides a cover of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year, for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to over 10.74 crore vulnerable entitled families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries).

Last year on 23 September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched PM-JAY from Ranchi, Jharkhand.&nbsp;

The work done under Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s flagship healthcare scheme Ayushman Bharat in the past one year has received commendation from the United Nations (UN), World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World bank alike, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Monday.

The work done under Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s flagship healthcare scheme Ayushman Bharat in the past one year has received commendation from the United Nations (UN), World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World bank alike, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Monday. Speaking to ANI on the completion of the first year of Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), he said, "This biggest health insurance scheme has brought smiles on the faces of lakhs of people in the country. People are thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for this blessing. I am glad to inform that Ayushman Bharat scheme has been appreciated by the United Nations, World Health Organisation and World Bank." Vardhan noted that more than 47 lakh people have received benefits worth Rs 7,500 crores in the past 12 months, and approximately 60 per cent of this amount has been spent on tertiary-care. "Over 10 crore e-cards have been generated and about 18,000 hospitals have been empanelled under AB-PMJAY. Out of the total hospitals empanelled, 53 per cent are private, especially multi-speciality. There are 9 hospital admissions every minute across India," said the Health minister. As of today, the scheme has been implemented in 32 States and Union Territories. A unique feature of AB-PMJAY is its portability, which has helped atleast 42,631 eligible poor and migrant workers to seek treatment outside their states, said the health minister. AB-PMJAY is the flagship scheme of Government of India that provides a cover of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year, for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to over 10.74 crore vulnerable entitled families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries). Last year on 23 September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched PM-JAY from Ranchi, Jharkhand.

Work done under Ayushman Bharat scheme commended by UN, WHO, World Bank: Harsh Vardhan

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-us-taliban-talks-cancelled-impact-on-india-248667">collapse of US–Taliban talks</a> is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has promised to issue a rallying cry at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week over India's moves in the Himalayan region, which he has described as ethnic cleansing, and warned of "impending genocide".

But Pakistan, long condemned for its support for militant groups, needs political capital if it is to sway a global community that has been historically reluctant to challenge New Delhi over Kashmir.

Helping the United States with its fervent wish to leave Afghanistan after nearly 18 years of war was widely seen as an opportunity to get back into Washington's good books after years of being accused of duplicity.

For a brief moment in July, it appeared to be working.

President Donald Trump delighted Khan in Washington by declaring his willingness to mediate on Kashmir.

New Delhi repeated its position that Kashmir is a purely bilateral issue with Islamabad and dismissed the possibility of foreign mediation, but still, Pakistan's star once again appeared on the rise in Washington.

The relief was short-lived.

Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government abrogated article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The move ignited outrage in Pakistan. And as Islamabad scrambled to win international support for its position on Kashmir, in a separate twist, Trump abruptly called off talks with the Taliban, blowing up nearly a year of painstaking efforts to secure a deal that would have seen the beginning of US troop withdrawal.

Pakistan has for years called for a political solution in Afghanistan and had used its influence over the Taliban to help facilitate talks with the United States, hoping a successful outcome would help generate diplomatic capital.

"Until Pakistan gets Afghanistan settled, they are not going to find it easy to respond to India's action in Kashmir so they are certainly in a bit of a bind," Expert Myra MacDonald told AFP.

Khan told reporters last week that he will meet with the US President on Monday to urge a resumption of talks with the Taliban.

Khan will take zero comfort from Trump’s beaming participation in a massive "Howdy Modi" rally in Texas on Sunday, during which the Indian leader offered a staunch and unchallenged defence of his move in Kashmir and took several, thinly-veiled swipes at Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism.

Trump told the 50,000 crowd of mostly Indian-Americans that Modi was doing an "exceptional job".

Tough times

The talks collapse comes at an especially delicate time in Pakistan, where frustrations are mounting just a year into Khan's rule with the economy under immense stress, and officials are struggling to raise revenues while slashing spending under an International Monetary Fund bailout agreement.

They are also bracing for a decision next month by the Financial Action Task Force, an anti-money-laundering monitor based in Paris that has threatened to blacklist Pakistan for failing to combat terror financing.

"Pakistan remains in dire financial straits and could really use some goodwill from the US and its allies," Graeme Smith, a consultant with International Crisis Group, told AFP.

The end of the Taliban talks, and the sudden uncertainty about how Islamabad is viewed by the mercurial Trump administration suggest American help in easing Pakistan's financial pain may be difficult to come by.

"Pakistan has invested a lot in these talks," said analyst Zahid Hussain.

"This abrupt ending... is a setback."

'Considerable influence'

Khan now faces the unsavoury task of weathering increased pressure from a White House more interested in Afghanistan than Kashmir.

Kabul and Washington have long accused Pakistan of sheltering and supporting the Taliban, an allegation it denies.

Security expert Rahimullah Yusufzai said that with talks off, Washington is likely to increase pressure on Islamabad once against to clamp down on the Taliban.

The militant group has vowed more violence but left the door open for talks, while the US has insisted they meet certain conditions first.

"It will be a 'do more' sort of situation" for Pakistan, Yusufzai explained.

But Pakistani military expert Ayesha Siddiqa argued that Islamabad still has a card to play.

"They have considerable influence to talk to the Taliban if not to make them act totally according to Islamabad's wishes," she said.

"They can try to convince them." 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The collapse of US–Taliban talks is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir.

The collapse of US–Taliban talks is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir. Prime Minister Imran Khan has promised to issue a rallying cry at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week over India's moves in the Himalayan region, which he has described as ethnic cleansing, and warned of "impending genocide". But Pakistan, long condemned for its support for militant groups, needs political capital if it is to sway a global community that has been historically reluctant to challenge New Delhi over Kashmir. Helping the United States with its fervent wish to leave Afghanistan after nearly 18 years of war was widely seen as an opportunity to get back into Washington's good books after years of being accused of duplicity. For a brief moment in July, it appeared to be working. President Donald Trump delighted Khan in Washington by declaring his willingness to mediate on Kashmir. New Delhi repeated its position that Kashmir is a purely bilateral issue with Islamabad and dismissed the possibility of foreign mediation, but still, Pakistan's star once again appeared on the rise in Washington. The relief was short-lived. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government abrogated article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The move ignited outrage in Pakistan. And as Islamabad scrambled to win international support for its position on Kashmir, in a separate twist, Trump abruptly called off talks with the Taliban, blowing up nearly a year of painstaking efforts to secure a deal that would have seen the beginning of US troop withdrawal. Pakistan has for years called for a political solution in Afghanistan and had used its influence over the Taliban to help facilitate talks with the United States, hoping a successful outcome would help generate diplomatic capital. "Until Pakistan gets Afghanistan settled, they are not going to find it easy to respond to India's action in Kashmir so they are certainly in a bit of a bind," Expert Myra MacDonald told AFP. Khan told reporters last week that he will meet with the US President on Monday to urge a resumption of talks with the Taliban. Khan will take zero comfort from Trump’s beaming participation in a massive "Howdy Modi" rally in Texas on Sunday, during which the Indian leader offered a staunch and unchallenged defence of his move in Kashmir and took several, thinly-veiled swipes at Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism. Trump told the 50,000 crowd of mostly Indian-Americans that Modi was doing an "exceptional job". Tough times The talks collapse comes at an especially delicate time in Pakistan, where frustrations are mounting just a year into Khan's rule with the economy under immense stress, and officials are struggling to raise revenues while slashing spending under an International Monetary Fund bailout agreement. They are also bracing for a decision next month by the Financial Action Task Force, an anti-money-laundering monitor based in Paris that has threatened to blacklist Pakistan for failing to combat terror financing. "Pakistan remains in dire financial straits and could really use some goodwill from the US and its allies," Graeme Smith, a consultant with International Crisis Group, told AFP. The end of the Taliban talks, and the sudden uncertainty about how Islamabad is viewed by the mercurial Trump administration suggest American help in easing Pakistan's financial pain may be difficult to come by. "Pakistan has invested a lot in these talks," said analyst Zahid Hussain. "This abrupt ending... is a setback." 'Considerable influence' Khan now faces the unsavoury task of weathering increased pressure from a White House more interested in Afghanistan than Kashmir. Kabul and Washington have long accused Pakistan of sheltering and supporting the Taliban, an allegation it denies. Security expert Rahimullah Yusufzai said that with talks off, Washington is likely to increase pressure on Islamabad once against to clamp down on the Taliban. The militant group has vowed more violence but left the door open for talks, while the US has insisted they meet certain conditions first. "It will be a 'do more' sort of situation" for Pakistan, Yusufzai explained. But Pakistani military expert Ayesha Siddiqa argued that Islamabad still has a card to play. "They have considerable influence to talk to the Taliban if not to make them act totally according to Islamabad's wishes," she said. "They can try to convince them."

Collapse of US-Taliban talks an awkward blow for Pakistan

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-announces-assembly-election-dates-for-maharashtra-and-haryana-250946"> upcoming elections </a>in Haryana.&nbsp;

The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls.

The decision was taken at a meeting of BJP`s Haryana election committee on Sunday.&nbsp;

Sources in the party said that the decision was taken after several MPs and senior state party leaders demanded tickets for their kin for the elections.

It may be noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has time and again targeted opposition parties in Haryana including Congress, INLD and Jannayak Janata Party for supporting dynastic politics.

"We have decided that relatives of MPs, mayors and district Council heads won`t get tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. In fact, MLAs will also be discouraged from seeking tickets for their family members. Unless there is an absolute emergency, we won`t be giving tickets to any relatives", said a senior party leader from the state.

It is learnt that both Khattar and Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala were of a clear view that the party should not promote dynastic politics in the state.&nbsp;

State party leaders reiterated that there is no place for dynastic politics in the BJP and only people committed to the party`s ideology and the cause will be fielded in the polls.

The BJP feels that giving tickets to the kin of its leaders would send a wrong message to its cadre ahead of the Assembly polls.&nbsp;

"The party doesn`t want to disrespect workers who put in a lot of efforts and show commitment towards the organisation. We want to respect their sentiments by not offering tickets to the kin of leaders, as they may be perceived as outsiders," the sources said.&nbsp;

The 90-member state Assembly goes to polls on October 21. The counting of votes will take place on October 24.

In Haryana, BJP with the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar looks confident of a comeback, while the Congress seems to be engrossed in internal rivalries between various factions.

In 2014 elections, BJP won 47 seats limiting Congress to only 15 in Haryana.

After winning an unprecedented 10 seats in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls in Haryana, the state party unit has now been tasked with securing a two-third majority in the 90 member legislature.

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the upcoming elections in Haryana. The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls.

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the upcoming elections in Haryana. The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls. The decision was taken at a meeting of BJP`s Haryana election committee on Sunday. Sources in the party said that the decision was taken after several MPs and senior state party leaders demanded tickets for their kin for the elections. It may be noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has time and again targeted opposition parties in Haryana including Congress, INLD and Jannayak Janata Party for supporting dynastic politics. "We have decided that relatives of MPs, mayors and district Council heads won`t get tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. In fact, MLAs will also be discouraged from seeking tickets for their family members. Unless there is an absolute emergency, we won`t be giving tickets to any relatives", said a senior party leader from the state. It is learnt that both Khattar and Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala were of a clear view that the party should not promote dynastic politics in the state. State party leaders reiterated that there is no place for dynastic politics in the BJP and only people committed to the party`s ideology and the cause will be fielded in the polls. The BJP feels that giving tickets to the kin of its leaders would send a wrong message to its cadre ahead of the Assembly polls. "The party doesn`t want to disrespect workers who put in a lot of efforts and show commitment towards the organisation. We want to respect their sentiments by not offering tickets to the kin of leaders, as they may be perceived as outsiders," the sources said. The 90-member state Assembly goes to polls on October 21. The counting of votes will take place on October 24. In Haryana, BJP with the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar looks confident of a comeback, while the Congress seems to be engrossed in internal rivalries between various factions. In 2014 elections, BJP won 47 seats limiting Congress to only 15 in Haryana. After winning an unprecedented 10 seats in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls in Haryana, the state party unit has now been tasked with securing a two-third majority in the 90 member legislature.

BJP will not field relatives of MPs, other elected representatives for Haryana polls

Former Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar`s wife on Monday filed an anticipatory bail application on his behalf before the Calcutta High Court in the Saradha chit fund scam case.

Kumar is accused of tampering with evidence in the case. He headed the special investigation team of the West Bengal Police to probe the scam before it was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Kumar is the Additional Director General of Crime Investigation Department (CID), West Bengal and his whereabouts are not known.&nbsp;

The CBI has recently told a court that his phone was switched off and he was responding to e-mails.

A local court on Saturday rejected his anticipatory bail plea, a day after the court stated that the CBI has right to arrest him in the scam.&nbsp;

During the course of proceedings, the CBI contended that Kumar violated the order of the Calcutta High Court as he was directed to stay at home, but now his whereabouts are not known.

The high court had earlier this month withdrawn protection from arrest granted to Kumar in Saradha chit fund scam case. Following this, the agency had summoned him for questioning several times but he failed to appear before it.

The Saradha Group of companies had allegedly duped people to the tune of Rs 2,500 crore promising higher rates of return on their investments.&nbsp;

Former Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar`s wife on Monday filed an anticipatory bail application on his behalf before the Calcutta High Court in the Saradha chit fund scam case.

Former Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar`s wife on Monday filed an anticipatory bail application on his behalf before the Calcutta High Court in the Saradha chit fund scam case. Kumar is accused of tampering with evidence in the case. He headed the special investigation team of the West Bengal Police to probe the scam before it was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Kumar is the Additional Director General of Crime Investigation Department (CID), West Bengal and his whereabouts are not known. The CBI has recently told a court that his phone was switched off and he was responding to e-mails. A local court on Saturday rejected his anticipatory bail plea, a day after the court stated that the CBI has right to arrest him in the scam. During the course of proceedings, the CBI contended that Kumar violated the order of the Calcutta High Court as he was directed to stay at home, but now his whereabouts are not known. The high court had earlier this month withdrawn protection from arrest granted to Kumar in Saradha chit fund scam case. Following this, the agency had summoned him for questioning several times but he failed to appear before it. The Saradha Group of companies had allegedly duped people to the tune of Rs 2,500 crore promising higher rates of return on their investments.

Saradha scam: Wife files anticipatory bail plea for Rajeev Kumar in Calcutta High Court

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar.

The four cases in which the police have made arrests are--the killing of BJP leader Anil Parihar, killing of RSS leader Chandrakant Sharma and his personal security officer and two-weapon snatching incidents.

Persons identified as Nissar Ahmed Sheikh, Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain have been arrested in connection with the four cases.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Singh stated, "We have been able to solve these cases with help of CRPF, Indian Army and NIA. Three have been arrested in the killing of Chandrakant Sharma. Among those arrested, one is Nisar Ahmad Sheikh who was also present during killing of Anil Parihar," Singh said.

Singh revealed that the incidents were linked to an effort by terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen to revive militancy in Chenab valley.

"It all goes back to an initial conspiracy during the years 2017 and 18. It was decided to revive militancy in Chenab valley and one of oldest commanders of Hizbul mujahideen, Jahangir Saroori played a part. In furtherance of this plan, they planned to kill Anil Parihar," Singh said.

Singh further said that militants named Osama, a Doda-based militant Harun, Zahid and Nisar Ahmed shaikh along with Saroori were involved in Parihar`s killing.

"In this whole conspiracy, Nissar Ahmed Shaikh also took help of Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain, who also have been arrested," Singh said.

Singh also stated that the police are trying to nab an over-ground worker identified as Rustom who aided the terrorists by creating a hideout for Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain.

"Today, I would like to send a message -- anyone harbouring, sympathising, transporting or helping terrorists in any form will be dealt with very strictly under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act," Singh said.&nbsp;

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar.

Inspector-General of Police (Jammu Zone) Mukesh Singh on Monday announced the arrest of three Hizbul Mujahideen militants in connection with four terrorist incidents in the past year in Kishtwar. The four cases in which the police have made arrests are--the killing of BJP leader Anil Parihar, killing of RSS leader Chandrakant Sharma and his personal security officer and two-weapon snatching incidents. Persons identified as Nissar Ahmed Sheikh, Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain have been arrested in connection with the four cases. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Singh stated, "We have been able to solve these cases with help of CRPF, Indian Army and NIA. Three have been arrested in the killing of Chandrakant Sharma. Among those arrested, one is Nisar Ahmad Sheikh who was also present during killing of Anil Parihar," Singh said. Singh revealed that the incidents were linked to an effort by terrorist group Hizbul Mujahideen to revive militancy in Chenab valley. "It all goes back to an initial conspiracy during the years 2017 and 18. It was decided to revive militancy in Chenab valley and one of oldest commanders of Hizbul mujahideen, Jahangir Saroori played a part. In furtherance of this plan, they planned to kill Anil Parihar," Singh said. Singh further said that militants named Osama, a Doda-based militant Harun, Zahid and Nisar Ahmed shaikh along with Saroori were involved in Parihar`s killing. "In this whole conspiracy, Nissar Ahmed Shaikh also took help of Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain, who also have been arrested," Singh said. Singh also stated that the police are trying to nab an over-ground worker identified as Rustom who aided the terrorists by creating a hideout for Nishad Ahmed and Azad Hussain. "Today, I would like to send a message -- anyone harbouring, sympathising, transporting or helping terrorists in any form will be dealt with very strictly under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act," Singh said.

J&K: Police arrest 3 Hizbul terrorists in connection with killing of BJP, RSS leader

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nightmare-nightmare-tourists-stranded-after-thomas-cook-collapses-251465">Thomas Cook</a>, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country.

"The tourism and finance ministries are working on a 'credit support package' to be put in place as soon as possible to help (affected) businesses," the tourism ministry said on Twitter.

Antalya in Turkey was one of Thomas Cook's top destinations, along with Bodrum and Dalaman.&nbsp;

The 178-year-old British operator failed to get a last-ditch rescue deal over the weekend and declared bankruptcy on Monday, leaving 600,000 tourists stranded worldwide.

Some 150,000 of those passengers are Britons seeking help from London to return home. 
&nbsp;

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country.

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country. "The tourism and finance ministries are working on a 'credit support package' to be put in place as soon as possible to help (affected) businesses," the tourism ministry said on Twitter. Antalya in Turkey was one of Thomas Cook's top destinations, along with Bodrum and Dalaman. The 178-year-old British operator failed to get a last-ditch rescue deal over the weekend and declared bankruptcy on Monday, leaving 600,000 tourists stranded worldwide. Some 150,000 of those passengers are Britons seeking help from London to return home.

Turkey to back businesses hit by Thomas Cook collapse

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We have constituted a committee to reopen schools which have been closed for many years. Around 50,000 temples were closed over the years, of which some were destroyed, and idols were defaced. We have ordered a survey of such temples and will re-open them. In Kashmir Valley, there is no cinema theatres and had been closed for 20 years. We are also thinking about reopening them. We will conduct a survey of school, cinema theatres, temples and other things which are closed now," he told reporters in a press conference in Bengaluru.

"There is abundant government land available so those want to invest do not need to purchase lands. We will give them government land so that they can open institutions there. In the state, we are employing 5 people from every village on government posts. Army, Navy and Air Force are also planning recruitment drive. In Jammu and Kashmir, we are planning to open universities. We have decided to encourage tourism," he said.

The government had abrogated Article 370 last month which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The minister said that the Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) will start an investigation into the money given by the Centre to Jammu and Kashmir but was not spent.

"ACB was not there in J&amp;K and we have established the ACB. The government has given crores of money but it was not spent. ACB will start the investigation," he said.

Reddy said that whole nation including Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is the government`s agenda.

"The Home Minister and Defence Minister have already cautioned Pakistan and terrorists. But we are very much alert about it...Whole nation including POK is on our agenda. As our leaders said I`m also saying we will sacrifice our life if required for POK," he said.

The minister also hit out at the Opposition parties questioning the government`s move on Jammu and Kashmir.

"Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders and other parties are speaking Pakistan language. Some of the political parties are speaking in support of Pakistan. We will give computers and Indian flag in hands of children in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

"India fought with Pakistan for four times and win. Pakistan is isolated in the world now. Prime Minister Modi put Pakistan in question in front of the world on the issue of terrorism. India`s decision on Article 370 got support from all over the world including China and America," he said.&nbsp;

The minister said that strict action will be taken against those who burn the national flag in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"There is no case against people who burn the national flag in J&amp;K. In the coming days if anyone burns the national flag they will get the same treatment as per rules like in other states," he said.&nbsp;

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir.

MoS for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Monday said that a survey will be conducted in order to re-open cinema theatres, temples and educational institutions which had been closed in Jammu and Kashmir. "We have constituted a committee to reopen schools which have been closed for many years. Around 50,000 temples were closed over the years, of which some were destroyed, and idols were defaced. We have ordered a survey of such temples and will re-open them. In Kashmir Valley, there is no cinema theatres and had been closed for 20 years. We are also thinking about reopening them. We will conduct a survey of school, cinema theatres, temples and other things which are closed now," he told reporters in a press conference in Bengaluru. "There is abundant government land available so those want to invest do not need to purchase lands. We will give them government land so that they can open institutions there. In the state, we are employing 5 people from every village on government posts. Army, Navy and Air Force are also planning recruitment drive. In Jammu and Kashmir, we are planning to open universities. We have decided to encourage tourism," he said. The government had abrogated Article 370 last month which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The minister said that the Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) will start an investigation into the money given by the Centre to Jammu and Kashmir but was not spent. "ACB was not there in J&K and we have established the ACB. The government has given crores of money but it was not spent. ACB will start the investigation," he said. Reddy said that whole nation including Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is the government`s agenda. "The Home Minister and Defence Minister have already cautioned Pakistan and terrorists. But we are very much alert about it...Whole nation including POK is on our agenda. As our leaders said I`m also saying we will sacrifice our life if required for POK," he said. The minister also hit out at the Opposition parties questioning the government`s move on Jammu and Kashmir. "Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders and other parties are speaking Pakistan language. Some of the political parties are speaking in support of Pakistan. We will give computers and Indian flag in hands of children in Jammu and Kashmir," he said. "India fought with Pakistan for four times and win. Pakistan is isolated in the world now. Prime Minister Modi put Pakistan in question in front of the world on the issue of terrorism. India`s decision on Article 370 got support from all over the world including China and America," he said. The minister said that strict action will be taken against those who burn the national flag in Jammu and Kashmir. "There is no case against people who burn the national flag in J&K. In the coming days if anyone burns the national flag they will get the same treatment as per rules like in other states," he said.

Closed for years, temples, education institutions to be re-opened in Jammu and Kashmir: MoS Reddy

More than half a million holidaymakers were stranded around the globe on Monday following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/british-travel-firm-thomas-cook-collapses-251355">collapse of Thomas Cook</a>, the world's oldest travel firm.

Travellers frantically scoured mobile phones or quizzed officials for information as they waited in long queues in airports around Europe and beyond.

Here are comments from British tourists caught up in the mayhem at Palma Airport on the Spanish island of Mallorca.

Nick, Travelling with two children Aged 18 months and 12 years

"Nightmare, nightmare, stressed. Not what we wanted really before going home. But what can you do? Other people have lost their jobs, so we're not as bad (off) as some other people."

"Says there's not going to be any flights, we're going to be stuck here in the airport until 7 o'clock (pm) I think. We were meant to fly at 10 o'clock (pm, on Sunday)&nbsp;They're going to fly back to Manchester and then (for us) a coach trip back to Newcastle."

Helen, Trying to get home to Glasgow, Scotland

"They said they directed (those of us bound for) Glasgow&nbsp;to Birmingham, then they're bussing us from Birmingham to Glasgow. So that's as far as we know, but things could change.

"It's quite sad, it is sad you know. Sad for all the staff too, you've got to think."

Unnamed British Mother in wheelchair Travelling to Glasgow

"I'm very anxious because I have sore legs so I don't know how if I'm going on a plane and then how I'm going to get to Glasgow if they take us to Birmingham or somewhere else. So it's going to be very difficult and a long day and I'm very tired.

Asked if travellers were being given information about what to do: "None, none. We watch it on the news to find out what is happening. So no one has phoned us, no one has emailed us, we've had to find out just when we've arrived."

More than half a million holidaymakers were stranded around the globe on Monday following the collapse of Thomas Cook, the world's oldest travel firm. Travellers frantically scoured mobile phones or quizzed officials for information as they waited in long queues in airports around Europe and beyond.

More than half a million holidaymakers were stranded around the globe on Monday following the collapse of Thomas Cook, the world's oldest travel firm. Travellers frantically scoured mobile phones or quizzed officials for information as they waited in long queues in airports around Europe and beyond. Here are comments from British tourists caught up in the mayhem at Palma Airport on the Spanish island of Mallorca. Nick, Travelling with two children Aged 18 months and 12 years "Nightmare, nightmare, stressed. Not what we wanted really before going home. But what can you do? Other people have lost their jobs, so we're not as bad (off) as some other people." "Says there's not going to be any flights, we're going to be stuck here in the airport until 7 o'clock (pm) I think. We were meant to fly at 10 o'clock (pm, on Sunday) They're going to fly back to Manchester and then (for us) a coach trip back to Newcastle." Helen, Trying to get home to Glasgow, Scotland "They said they directed (those of us bound for) Glasgow to Birmingham, then they're bussing us from Birmingham to Glasgow. So that's as far as we know, but things could change. "It's quite sad, it is sad you know. Sad for all the staff too, you've got to think." Unnamed British Mother in wheelchair Travelling to Glasgow "I'm very anxious because I have sore legs so I don't know how if I'm going on a plane and then how I'm going to get to Glasgow if they take us to Birmingham or somewhere else. So it's going to be very difficult and a long day and I'm very tired. Asked if travellers were being given information about what to do: "None, none. We watch it on the news to find out what is happening. So no one has phoned us, no one has emailed us, we've had to find out just when we've arrived."

'Nightmare, nightmare': Tourists stranded after Thomas Cook collapses

Indian shares jumped nearly 3 per cent on Monday, extending sharp gains from the previous session as a surprise move by the government last week to cut the effective corporate tax rate stoked optimism among investors concerned about a slowing economy.

The broader NSE Nifty closed 2.89 per cent&nbsp;higher at 11,600.20, while the benchmark BSE Sensex ended up 2.83 per cent at 39,098.03. Both indexes closed at their highest levels in more than two months.

They recorded their best day in more than a decade on Friday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman cut the effective corporate tax rate to around 25 per cent&nbsp;from 30 per cent&nbsp;and scrapped the minimum alternative tax for domestic companies.

On Monday, banking and consumer stocks led the gains. The Nifty banking index, which tracks both state-owned and private-sector lenders, finished 5.41 per cent&nbsp;higher, while the FMCG index closed up 4.31 per cent.

Bharat Petroleum Corp touched its highest level since March last year and topped the list of gainers among blue chips.

However, IT stocks put the brakes on the rally, with the index closing down 2.91 per cent&nbsp;after recording its worst intraday day drop in over two-and-a-half years.

IT heavyweight Infosys ended nearly 5 per cent&nbsp;lower and was one of the biggest losers among the NSE stocks.

Indian shares jumped nearly 3 per cent on Monday, extending sharp gains from the previous session as a surprise move by the government last week to cut the effective corporate tax rate stoked optimism among investors concerned about a slowing economy.

Indian shares jumped nearly 3 per cent on Monday, extending sharp gains from the previous session as a surprise move by the government last week to cut the effective corporate tax rate stoked optimism among investors concerned about a slowing economy. The broader NSE Nifty closed 2.89 per cent higher at 11,600.20, while the benchmark BSE Sensex ended up 2.83 per cent at 39,098.03. Both indexes closed at their highest levels in more than two months. They recorded their best day in more than a decade on Friday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman cut the effective corporate tax rate to around 25 per cent from 30 per cent and scrapped the minimum alternative tax for domestic companies. On Monday, banking and consumer stocks led the gains. The Nifty banking index, which tracks both state-owned and private-sector lenders, finished 5.41 per cent higher, while the FMCG index closed up 4.31 per cent. Bharat Petroleum Corp touched its highest level since March last year and topped the list of gainers among blue chips. However, IT stocks put the brakes on the rally, with the index closing down 2.91 per cent after recording its worst intraday day drop in over two-and-a-half years. IT heavyweight Infosys ended nearly 5 per cent lower and was one of the biggest losers among the NSE stocks.

Sensex, Nifty extend rally; IT stocks cap gains

India aims to sell two or three state-owned firms to local or foreign firms to raise up to Rs 600 billion ($8.5 billion) by March 2020, a senior Finance Ministry official said on Monday.

The government planned to sell Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd, logistics firm Container Corp of India Ltd and debt-laden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-supply-to-air-india-stopped-at-six-domestic-airports-report-244881">Air India</a> before the end of the 2019/20 financial year, the official, who asked not to be named, told reporters.

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had voiced reservations about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/centre-to-go-ahead-with-disinvestment-process-of-air-india-ministry-of-civil-aviation-230982">Finance Ministry's</a> past sales of stakes in one state entity to another, which was the case when refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd was sold to Oil and Natural Gas Corp Ltd, the official said.

"The PMO is very clear that we cannot be selling government companies to another government company and then call it privatisation", the official said.

India aims to sell two or three state-owned firms to local or foreign firms to raise up to Rs 600 billion ($8.5 billion) by March 2020, a senior Finance Ministry official said on Monday.

India aims to sell two or three state-owned firms to local or foreign firms to raise up to Rs 600 billion ($8.5 billion) by March 2020, a senior Finance Ministry official said on Monday. The government planned to sell Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd, logistics firm Container Corp of India Ltd and debt-laden Air India before the end of the 2019/20 financial year, the official, who asked not to be named, told reporters. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had voiced reservations about the Finance Ministry's past sales of stakes in one state entity to another, which was the case when refiner Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd was sold to Oil and Natural Gas Corp Ltd, the official said. "The PMO is very clear that we cannot be selling government companies to another government company and then call it privatisation", the official said.

Government aims to sell Air India, other firms by March 2020: Official

Iran said on Monday that a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-release-british-flagged-tanker-within-hours-swedish-owner-251217"> British-flagged oil tanker</a> is "free" to leave more than two months after it was seized in the Gulf.

"The legal process has finished and based on that the conditions for letting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-releases-7-indian-crew-members-from-seized-british-tanker-247667">oil tanker</a> go free have been fulfilled and the oil tanker can move," government spokesman Ali Rabiei told a news conference.

He did not specify when the Swedish-owned vessel would be allowed to set sail.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps surrounded the Stena Impero with attack boats before rappelling onto the deck of the tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19.

The vessel was impounded at Iran's Bandar Abbas port for allegedly failing to respond to distress calls and turning off its transponder after hitting a fishing boat.

Stena Bulk, the company that owns the tanker, said on Sunday that it expected the vessel to be released soon, but expressed caution about the situation.

"We understand that the political decision has been taken to release the ship," Stena Bulk's chief executive Erik Hanell told Swedish television station SVT.

"We hope it will be able to leave in a few hours, but we don't want to take anything for granted. We want to make sure the ship sails out of Iranian territorial waters," he said.

The ship's seizure came hours after a court in the British overseas territory of Gibraltar said it was extending the detention of the Grace 1, an Iranian oil tanker later renamed the Adrian Darya 1.

At the time, Tehran denied the seizure of the Stena Impero was a tit-for-tat move.

A Gibraltar court ordered the Iranian tanker's release on August 15 despite an 11th-hour US legal bid to keep it in detention. 
&nbsp;

Iran said on Monday that a British-flagged oil tanker is "free" to leave more than two months after it was seized in the Gulf. "The legal process has finished and based on that the conditions for letting the oil tanker go free have been fulfilled and the oil tanker can move," government spokesman Ali Rabiei told a news conference.

Iran said on Monday that a British-flagged oil tanker is "free" to leave more than two months after it was seized in the Gulf. "The legal process has finished and based on that the conditions for letting the oil tanker go free have been fulfilled and the oil tanker can move," government spokesman Ali Rabiei told a news conference. He did not specify when the Swedish-owned vessel would be allowed to set sail. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps surrounded the Stena Impero with attack boats before rappelling onto the deck of the tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on July 19. The vessel was impounded at Iran's Bandar Abbas port for allegedly failing to respond to distress calls and turning off its transponder after hitting a fishing boat. Stena Bulk, the company that owns the tanker, said on Sunday that it expected the vessel to be released soon, but expressed caution about the situation. "We understand that the political decision has been taken to release the ship," Stena Bulk's chief executive Erik Hanell told Swedish television station SVT. "We hope it will be able to leave in a few hours, but we don't want to take anything for granted. We want to make sure the ship sails out of Iranian territorial waters," he said. The ship's seizure came hours after a court in the British overseas territory of Gibraltar said it was extending the detention of the Grace 1, an Iranian oil tanker later renamed the Adrian Darya 1. At the time, Tehran denied the seizure of the Stena Impero was a tit-for-tat move. A Gibraltar court ordered the Iranian tanker's release on August 15 despite an 11th-hour US legal bid to keep it in detention.

Iran says seized British-flagged tanker 'free' to leave

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