As Pakistan continued to cry foul over Kashmir, Baloch leader Mehran Marri has exposed its hypocritical nature, saying Islamabad is committing "genocide and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/history-of-the-war-in-balochistan-242939">human rights violation" in Balochistan </a>and yet they go to the International community with a "facade of carrying about human rights in Kashmir".

"Today in Geneva the Pakistani foreign ministers was inviting foreign journalists and media to Pakistan occupied Kashmir to come and see how people are living over there. The man has no shame they are committing genocide and human right violations in Balochistan."

&nbsp;Merri remarks come in the response of Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi`s invitation to world media and the international community to Pakistan occupied Kashmir to see how "happy" people are living there.

The Baloch leader accused Pakistan of ignoring human rights abuses committed by its "partner in crime" China in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-uighurs-use-tiktok-to-expose-chinas-detention-camps-in-xinjiang-244906">Xinjiang province against Uighur Muslims</a>.

"Pakistan has given the rights to itself the position of international policeman for safeguarding the rights of Muslims around the world. Is it too blind to see what`s happening to the Mulsim in China Because China is a partner in crime for carrying out crime in Balochistan? They can`t see millions of Muslims living in China in destitute," he added.

At the UNHRC session, Qureshi presented a false narrative on Kashmir maintained by his country following the Indian government`s historic move to abrogate Article 370.

Interestingly, while Qureshi was addressing the session, protests were held outside the UN Headquarters against the dire situation of Human Rights in Pakistan.

Time and again Islamabad has been left red-faced after all its desperate attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue fell flat with countries like Russia, UAE and US siding with India.While Pakistan has been running from pillar to post, New Delhi has maintained that Kashmir is a strictly internal matter.&nbsp;

As Pakistan continued to cry foul over Kashmir, Baloch leader Mehran Marri has exposed its hypocritical nature, saying Islamabad is committing "genocide and human rights violation" in Balochistan and yet they go to the International community with a "facade of carrying about human rights in Kashmir".

As Pakistan continued to cry foul over Kashmir, Baloch leader Mehran Marri has exposed its hypocritical nature, saying Islamabad is committing "genocide and human rights violation" in Balochistan and yet they go to the International community with a "facade of carrying about human rights in Kashmir". "Today in Geneva the Pakistani foreign ministers was inviting foreign journalists and media to Pakistan occupied Kashmir to come and see how people are living over there. The man has no shame they are committing genocide and human right violations in Balochistan." Merri remarks come in the response of Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi`s invitation to world media and the international community to Pakistan occupied Kashmir to see how "happy" people are living there. The Baloch leader accused Pakistan of ignoring human rights abuses committed by its "partner in crime" China in Xinjiang province against Uighur Muslims. "Pakistan has given the rights to itself the position of international policeman for safeguarding the rights of Muslims around the world. Is it too blind to see what`s happening to the Mulsim in China Because China is a partner in crime for carrying out crime in Balochistan? They can`t see millions of Muslims living in China in destitute," he added. At the UNHRC session, Qureshi presented a false narrative on Kashmir maintained by his country following the Indian government`s historic move to abrogate Article 370. Interestingly, while Qureshi was addressing the session, protests were held outside the UN Headquarters against the dire situation of Human Rights in Pakistan. Time and again Islamabad has been left red-faced after all its desperate attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue fell flat with countries like Russia, UAE and US siding with India.While Pakistan has been running from pillar to post, New Delhi has maintained that Kashmir is a strictly internal matter.

Pakistan approaches international community over Kashmir but commits genocide in Balochistan: Baloch leader

The price of milk in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cash-strapped-pakistan-wooes-investors-with-belly-dancers-248426">Pakistan</a> escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday.

While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP</a>

According to several media reports, a litre of milk in Karachi and Sindh Province was priced between 120 to Rs 140 per litre.&nbsp;

The price of petrol and diesel in Pakistan is Rs 113 and Rs 91 per litre, respectively.

Pakistan's crippled economy is currently undergoing a tough time.

The annual fiscal deficit of Pakistan rose to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19. The fiscal deficit is a difference between the revenues and expenditures of the federal government.

The price of milk in Pakistan escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday. While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram.

The price of milk in Pakistan escalated to around Rs 120 to Rs 140 per litre on Tuesday. While the official price of milk set by the Karachi Commissioner is Rs 94 per litre, the prices swelled in the country owing to the rise in its demand on the occasion of Muharram. Also read: Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP According to several media reports, a litre of milk in Karachi and Sindh Province was priced between 120 to Rs 140 per litre. The price of petrol and diesel in Pakistan is Rs 113 and Rs 91 per litre, respectively. Pakistan's crippled economy is currently undergoing a tough time. The annual fiscal deficit of Pakistan rose to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19. The fiscal deficit is a difference between the revenues and expenditures of the federal government.

On Muharram, milk becomes costlier than petrol in Pakistan

A powerful explosion occurred near the US Embassy in Kabul on Wednesday.

Images circulated on social media showed smoke billowing near the embassy building, where several embassies are located.

The explosion took place on 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attack.

The blast was a rocket blast, Xinhua reported citing local journalist Jawad Jalali.

No casualties have been reported.

No group has claimed the responsibility of the attack. But it has come just a day after the Taliban pledged to retaliate after US President Donald Trump ended the peace talks abruptly.

A powerful explosion occurred near the US Embassy in Kabul on Wednesday. Images circulated on social media showed smoke billowing near the embassy building, where several embassies are located.

A powerful explosion occurred near the US Embassy in Kabul on Wednesday. Images circulated on social media showed smoke billowing near the embassy building, where several embassies are located. The explosion took place on 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attack. The blast was a rocket blast, Xinhua reported citing local journalist Jawad Jalali. No casualties have been reported. No group has claimed the responsibility of the attack. But it has come just a day after the Taliban pledged to retaliate after US President Donald Trump ended the peace talks abruptly.

Explosion occurs in Kabul near US embassy; no casualties

Sidestepping cowpats and garbage, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/myanmar-army-drops-lawsuit-against-religious-leader-who-complained-to-trump-of-persecution-248749">Myanmar</a>'s only home-grown junior rugby side train on the outskirts of Yangon, preparing to take on children from the city's well-heeled international schools.

When the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-university-suspends-student-for-being-rohingya-248479">Little Dragons</a> aren't running barefoot on the litter-strewn dirt, the makeshift field on the outskirts of Yangon is sometimes used as a cockfighting ring or a fairground.

But every Sunday, boys and girls aged five to 18 from Yangon's North Dagon township can be seen playing touch rugby, an incongruous sight in a country where the sport is barely known.

As novice monks file past collecting alms, the players shoo away cantankerous cattle to begin warm-up drills under the tutelage of their coaches, a mix of locals and expatriates.

In the monsoon, the training ground is shin-deep in mud, but during the hot season, the surface is baked into an unyielding, crusty mosaic.

Yet many of the Little Dragons play in bare feet.

Youth worker-turned-coach Aung Kyaw Lin, 24, helped set up the team four years ago to run alongside English and maths lessons, and workshops on fire safety and health.

"Children here used to spend their free time in gaming shops," he says.

"When they started playing rugby, they stopped arguing and worked together."

Although the organisers ran out of funding to keep their education centre going, the rugby continued.

Few women play sport in conservative Myanmar, yet half of the 40 or so Little Dragons are girls.

Nann Shar Larr He's older sister used to scold her for wanting to play with the boys, but now most of her family come to watch the training sessions.

"There's no difference between girls and boys when we play rugby," the 15-year-old smiles

Second-hand trainers

As the only homegrown junior team in the country, the Little Dragons look to Yangon's international schools for matches.

In May, they took part in Myanmar's first junior tournament partly played on a full-sized, artificial grass pitch at one of the schools.

Out of 10 teams in each age group, Little Dragons sides finished second and third in the Under-14s, and second in the Under-11s.

"These kids ran rings round them," says coach Bradley Edwards.

One baffled team even tried removing their trainers to see if that was the key to the Little Dragons' agility-an an experiment that lasted only a couple of minutes on the hot, rough surface.

"We felt like crying when they scored, but we just tried even harder," says 12-year-old Dragon Kyaw Kyaw Lin.

The schools are helping out the team, donating second-hand trainers and sharing transport.

But the Dragons are looking for sustained funding to support them and resurrect the now-closed education centre.

An interested international sponsor-backed away last year, concerned about Myanmar's "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nasa-pioneers-malaria-predicting-tech-in-myanmar-248770">political climate</a>"-&nbsp;a reference to the global outcry triggered by the mass expulsion of Rohingya Muslims in 2017.

Edwards sees this as counter-productive, arguing that sport can be a unifying force.

"There are so many things separating communities now in Myanmar and in rugby one of the key values is respect," he says.

The next step is to introduce the players to rugby sevens- but fellow coach Josh Peck says they are eager for more.

"These kids are fired-up and ready. They want to play (full) contact."

Sidestepping cowpats and garbage, Myanmar's only home-grown junior rugby side train on the outskirts of Yangon, preparing to take on children from the city's well-heeled international schools.

Sidestepping cowpats and garbage, Myanmar's only home-grown junior rugby side train on the outskirts of Yangon, preparing to take on children from the city's well-heeled international schools. When the Little Dragons aren't running barefoot on the litter-strewn dirt, the makeshift field on the outskirts of Yangon is sometimes used as a cockfighting ring or a fairground. But every Sunday, boys and girls aged five to 18 from Yangon's North Dagon township can be seen playing touch rugby, an incongruous sight in a country where the sport is barely known. As novice monks file past collecting alms, the players shoo away cantankerous cattle to begin warm-up drills under the tutelage of their coaches, a mix of locals and expatriates. In the monsoon, the training ground is shin-deep in mud, but during the hot season, the surface is baked into an unyielding, crusty mosaic. Yet many of the Little Dragons play in bare feet. Youth worker-turned-coach Aung Kyaw Lin, 24, helped set up the team four years ago to run alongside English and maths lessons, and workshops on fire safety and health. "Children here used to spend their free time in gaming shops," he says. "When they started playing rugby, they stopped arguing and worked together." Although the organisers ran out of funding to keep their education centre going, the rugby continued. Few women play sport in conservative Myanmar, yet half of the 40 or so Little Dragons are girls. Nann Shar Larr He's older sister used to scold her for wanting to play with the boys, but now most of her family come to watch the training sessions. "There's no difference between girls and boys when we play rugby," the 15-year-old smiles Second-hand trainers As the only homegrown junior team in the country, the Little Dragons look to Yangon's international schools for matches. In May, they took part in Myanmar's first junior tournament partly played on a full-sized, artificial grass pitch at one of the schools. Out of 10 teams in each age group, Little Dragons sides finished second and third in the Under-14s, and second in the Under-11s. "These kids ran rings round them," says coach Bradley Edwards. One baffled team even tried removing their trainers to see if that was the key to the Little Dragons' agility-an an experiment that lasted only a couple of minutes on the hot, rough surface. "We felt like crying when they scored, but we just tried even harder," says 12-year-old Dragon Kyaw Kyaw Lin. The schools are helping out the team, donating second-hand trainers and sharing transport. But the Dragons are looking for sustained funding to support them and resurrect the now-closed education centre. An interested international sponsor-backed away last year, concerned about Myanmar's "political climate"- a reference to the global outcry triggered by the mass expulsion of Rohingya Muslims in 2017. Edwards sees this as counter-productive, arguing that sport can be a unifying force. "There are so many things separating communities now in Myanmar and in rugby one of the key values is respect," he says. The next step is to introduce the players to rugby sevens- but fellow coach Josh Peck says they are eager for more. "These kids are fired-up and ready. They want to play (full) contact."

Dung and Dragons: Myanmar kids dodge cows to play rugby

Recalling the horrific <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-to-mark-the-18th-anniversary-of-the-september-11-attacks-249001">9/11 terrorist attack in the US</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Mathura on Wednesday that terrorism has now become a "global threat" and an "ideology" not confined to any single nation and is deeply rooted and flourishing in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Now terrorism has become an ideology which is not confined to the boundary of any nation. This is a global problem and has become a global threat whose deep roots are situated in our <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-designates-leader-of-pak-based-terror-group-as-terrorist-249007">neighbouring country</a> and are flourishing there," he said at "Swacchata Hi Seva" programme here.

"About a century ago, Swami Vivekananda delivered a historic speech in Chicago and the world came to know in-depth about our culture. But unfortunately, on the same September 11, a big terrorist attack that shook the world took place in America," said Modi.

He said that India has taken a bold step against terrorism in past and will continue to do so in future.

"The whole world needs to take a pledge and stand up against those who give shelter and training to the terrorist. India is very much capable of tackling the menace on its own. We have shown this in past and will continue to do so in future," said Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The PM also highlighted the need to eliminate single-use plastic in the country saying animals are dying because of plastic trash.&nbsp;

"The problem if the plastic is growing each day. You Brijwasis are well aware of how plastic becoming a major factor of animals` death.&nbsp;

Similarly, the marine animals, especially fishes living in rivers, ponds are also dying because of plastic pollution in the water bodies," he said addressing the inaugural event of National Animal Disease Control Programme.

He also urged people to carry eco-friendly bags while going to the market.

"Waste to Wealth is what is going to protect our environment. I request you to carry a cloth or a jute bag while going for shopping. I urge traders to use very less plastic for packaging. It is our duty to be responsible about the environment," he said.

The Prime Minister also urged self-help groups and young minds to work towards making India plastic-free country.

"I appeal to Self Help groups working in villages, social organisations, youth organisations, clubs, schools and colleges to join the campaign against single plastic use and make India clean and green," he said.

"We have to try that by October 2, we rid all our homes, offices, workplaces and surroundings of single-use plastics," Modi added.

Besides single-use plastic, the Prime Minister also talked about combating terrorism, climate change and sanitation drive at the event.&nbsp;

Recalling the horrific 9/11 terrorist attack in the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Mathura on Wednesday that terrorism has now become a "global threat" and an "ideology" not confined to any single nation and is deeply rooted and flourishing in Pakistan.

Recalling the horrific 9/11 terrorist attack in the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Mathura on Wednesday that terrorism has now become a "global threat" and an "ideology" not confined to any single nation and is deeply rooted and flourishing in Pakistan. "Now terrorism has become an ideology which is not confined to the boundary of any nation. This is a global problem and has become a global threat whose deep roots are situated in our neighbouring country and are flourishing there," he said at "Swacchata Hi Seva" programme here. "About a century ago, Swami Vivekananda delivered a historic speech in Chicago and the world came to know in-depth about our culture. But unfortunately, on the same September 11, a big terrorist attack that shook the world took place in America," said Modi. He said that India has taken a bold step against terrorism in past and will continue to do so in future. "The whole world needs to take a pledge and stand up against those who give shelter and training to the terrorist. India is very much capable of tackling the menace on its own. We have shown this in past and will continue to do so in future," said Prime Minister. The PM also highlighted the need to eliminate single-use plastic in the country saying animals are dying because of plastic trash. "The problem if the plastic is growing each day. You Brijwasis are well aware of how plastic becoming a major factor of animals` death. Similarly, the marine animals, especially fishes living in rivers, ponds are also dying because of plastic pollution in the water bodies," he said addressing the inaugural event of National Animal Disease Control Programme. He also urged people to carry eco-friendly bags while going to the market. "Waste to Wealth is what is going to protect our environment. I request you to carry a cloth or a jute bag while going for shopping. I urge traders to use very less plastic for packaging. It is our duty to be responsible about the environment," he said. The Prime Minister also urged self-help groups and young minds to work towards making India plastic-free country. "I appeal to Self Help groups working in villages, social organisations, youth organisations, clubs, schools and colleges to join the campaign against single plastic use and make India clean and green," he said. "We have to try that by October 2, we rid all our homes, offices, workplaces and surroundings of single-use plastics," Modi added. Besides single-use plastic, the Prime Minister also talked about combating terrorism, climate change and sanitation drive at the event.

Terrorism is now 'global threat', has deep roots in Pakistan: PM Modi

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-calls-on-pakistan-to-immediately-end-support-to-all-terrorist-groups-white-house-197523">United States </a>on Tuesday (local time) designated the leader of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-hails-masood-azhars-designation-as-global-terrorist-a-notable-achievement-220333">Pakistan</a>-based terror organisation, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as a terrorist.

TTP, also known as Pakistan Taliban, in an alliance of the terror group.

The group is responsible for carrying out multiple suicide bombings, and have killed hundreds of civilians.

TTP was earlier designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the Department of State.

Noor Wali, also known as Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud, was named the leader of TTP in June 2018 following the death of former TTP leader Mullah Fazlullah.&nbsp;

"Under Noor Wali`s leadership, TTP has claimed responsibility for numerous deadly terrorist attacks across Pakistan," said US state department in a statement.

The decision by the state department was taken to deny the terrorist group "the resources to plan and carry out attacks".

According to the United Nations, the TPP is associated with Al-Qaida. It is responsible for "financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of, supplying, selling or transferring arms and related materiel to, recruiting for or otherwise supporting acts or activities of" Al-Qaida.

This comes as another blow to Pakistan which has been repeatedly called out by the world community for supporting the terrorist groups.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been under the FATF radar for its complicity towards terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) among others.

The FATF had given a stern message to Pakistan to expedite its action plan for curbing terror financing by October or face the prospect of getting blacklisted, which could aggravate problems for its stagnant economy.&nbsp;

The present action by the US might adversely impact Islamabad case in front of the FATF.

Along with the TPP, the state department also listed leaders of Hizballah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, ISIS-Philippines and ISIS-West Africa.

The department also designated an al-Qa`ida affiliate in Syria- Hurras al-Din-- as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist.

"The State Department is moving aggressively to implement these new authorities. Today, the Department has designated one terrorist group - Hurras al-Din, an al-Qa`ida affiliate in Syria - as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT)," the statement said.

"The Department has also designated as SDGTs 12 leaders of previously designated groups, including Hizballah, HAMAS, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, ISIS-Philippines, ISIS-West Africa, and Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan. In addition to these actions, the Department of the Treasury has designated 15 additional terrorists affiliated with ISIS, ISIS-Philippines, ISIS-Khorasan, al-Qa`ida, HAMAS, and Iran`s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force under the same authority," the added.

The new order puts foreign financial institutions on notice that they risk sanctions if they knowingly "conduct or facilitate any significant transactions on behalf of designated terrorists".&nbsp;

The United States on Tuesday (local time) designated the leader of Pakistan-based terror organisation, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as a terrorist. TTP, also known as Pakistan Taliban, in an alliance of the terror group.

The United States on Tuesday (local time) designated the leader of Pakistan-based terror organisation, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as a terrorist. TTP, also known as Pakistan Taliban, in an alliance of the terror group. The group is responsible for carrying out multiple suicide bombings, and have killed hundreds of civilians. TTP was earlier designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the Department of State. Noor Wali, also known as Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud, was named the leader of TTP in June 2018 following the death of former TTP leader Mullah Fazlullah. "Under Noor Wali`s leadership, TTP has claimed responsibility for numerous deadly terrorist attacks across Pakistan," said US state department in a statement. The decision by the state department was taken to deny the terrorist group "the resources to plan and carry out attacks". According to the United Nations, the TPP is associated with Al-Qaida. It is responsible for "financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of, supplying, selling or transferring arms and related materiel to, recruiting for or otherwise supporting acts or activities of" Al-Qaida. This comes as another blow to Pakistan which has been repeatedly called out by the world community for supporting the terrorist groups. Pakistan has been under the FATF radar for its complicity towards terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) among others. The FATF had given a stern message to Pakistan to expedite its action plan for curbing terror financing by October or face the prospect of getting blacklisted, which could aggravate problems for its stagnant economy. The present action by the US might adversely impact Islamabad case in front of the FATF. Along with the TPP, the state department also listed leaders of Hizballah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, ISIS-Philippines and ISIS-West Africa. The department also designated an al-Qa`ida affiliate in Syria- Hurras al-Din-- as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. "The State Department is moving aggressively to implement these new authorities. Today, the Department has designated one terrorist group - Hurras al-Din, an al-Qa`ida affiliate in Syria - as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT)," the statement said. "The Department has also designated as SDGTs 12 leaders of previously designated groups, including Hizballah, HAMAS, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, ISIS-Philippines, ISIS-West Africa, and Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan. In addition to these actions, the Department of the Treasury has designated 15 additional terrorists affiliated with ISIS, ISIS-Philippines, ISIS-Khorasan, al-Qa`ida, HAMAS, and Iran`s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force under the same authority," the added. The new order puts foreign financial institutions on notice that they risk sanctions if they knowingly "conduct or facilitate any significant transactions on behalf of designated terrorists".

US designates leader of Pak-based terror group as terrorist

US to mark 18th anniversary of the September 11 attacks

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP.

"Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said.

Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020.

Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture.

His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).

The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate".

The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar).

Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).&nbsp;

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020. Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP. "Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said. Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020. Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture. His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate". The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar). Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).

No change in leadership, Nitish to remain captain: Sushil Modi

Pat Cummins took two wickets in two balls, including England captain Joe Root for a golden duck, to leave Australia on the brink of retaining the Ashes at Old Trafford on Saturday.

England were 18-2 in their second innings at stumps on the fourth day of the fourth Test, still needing a further 365 runs on Sunday's last day to reach a target of 383.

"They're coming out alright at the moment!," Cummins told Sky Sports. "I'm feeling okay. One big final push tomorrow."

By contrast, Australia require eight wickets to seal a win that would see the holders keep the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in a five-Test series.

The most England have made in the fourth innings to win a Test was the 362/9 they posted in their series-levelling success last time out at Headingley, where Ben Stokes's stunning 135 not out and the resistance of No 11 Jack Leach secured a remarkable one-wicket victory.

Earlier, Steve Smith's remorseless run-glut continued as he made 82 -- his lowest score this series -- in Australia's second innings of 186-6 declared.

Rory Burns and Root had shared a partnership of 141 while making 81 and 71 respectively in England's first-innings 301, but on Saturday they were both out for nought in the first over of England's chase.

Left-handed opener Burns, looking to turn Cummins's third ball legside, got a leading edge and was caught at short cover by Travis Head.

Next ball a brilliant delivery that nipped away off the seam and clipped the top of off stump saw Root bowled by Cummins for his third nought of the series and second golden duck.

Cummins was on a hat-trick, with the struggling Jason Roy next in but the World Cup winner responded with a solid forward defensive shot and he was eight not out at stumps, with Joe Denly unbeaten on 10.

'Unbelievable Smith'&nbsp;

Earlier, Smith's ninth successive Ashes fifty, extending his own record, followed his superb 211 in the first innings of his comeback Test after he missed the match at Headingley with concussion.

In what is his first Test series since completing a 12-month ball-tampering ban, former Australia captain Smith has now scored 671 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of 134.2.

He was on course to become the first batsman in Ashes history, and only the eighth in any Test, to score a double hundred and hundred in the same match when he lofted left-arm spinner Leach with Stokes, running round from long-off, holding a safe catch to end a 92-ball innings featuring 11 fours.

Australia were in trouble at 44-4 before tea, with Stuart Broad and Archer taking two wickets apiece after England narrowly avoided following-on in reply to the tourists' 497-8 declared.

But Smith counter-attacked in superb style.

"None of us expected the innings Smithy went out with, he was incredible," said Cummins. "We'd have been happy to get though the night but Smithy was unbelievable."

Meanwhile, England coach Trevor Bayliss insisted: "Anything is possible. We saw that in the last Test match.&nbsp;

"We have got a couple guys out there and a few guys in the shed who are more than capable of scoring a hundred," the Australian added.

Smith did give a chance on 48 when he reverse-swept Leach, with Stokes, anticipating the shot and moving quickly across from slip, failing to hold what would have been a sensational catch.

The 30-year-old Smith toyed with England's bowlers on a sunny afternoon, pulling Broad for an extravagant four.

While Smith has enjoyed a run-spree, David Warner -- also returning to Tests from a year-long ball-tampering ban &nbsp;-- has become Broad's 'bunny'.

Saturday saw left-handed opener Warner out for his third straight Test duck when Broad, the successful bowler on each occasion, had him lbw.

It was the sixth time Warner had fallen to Broad this Ashes and meant he had completed 'a pair' in the match after a nought in the first innings.

World Cup-winner Archer, in only his third Test, had been down on pace during Australia's first innings.&nbsp;

But the express quick was back over the 90 mph mark on Saturday during a return of 3-45 in 14 overs.

Pat Cummins took two wickets in two balls, including England captain Joe Root for a golden duck, to leave Australia on the brink of retaining the Ashes at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Pat Cummins took two wickets in two balls, including England captain Joe Root for a golden duck, to leave Australia on the brink of retaining the Ashes at Old Trafford on Saturday. England were 18-2 in their second innings at stumps on the fourth day of the fourth Test, still needing a further 365 runs on Sunday's last day to reach a target of 383. "They're coming out alright at the moment!," Cummins told Sky Sports. "I'm feeling okay. One big final push tomorrow." By contrast, Australia require eight wickets to seal a win that would see the holders keep the Ashes at 2-1 up with one to play in a five-Test series. The most England have made in the fourth innings to win a Test was the 362/9 they posted in their series-levelling success last time out at Headingley, where Ben Stokes's stunning 135 not out and the resistance of No 11 Jack Leach secured a remarkable one-wicket victory. Earlier, Steve Smith's remorseless run-glut continued as he made 82 -- his lowest score this series -- in Australia's second innings of 186-6 declared. Rory Burns and Root had shared a partnership of 141 while making 81 and 71 respectively in England's first-innings 301, but on Saturday they were both out for nought in the first over of England's chase. Left-handed opener Burns, looking to turn Cummins's third ball legside, got a leading edge and was caught at short cover by Travis Head. Next ball a brilliant delivery that nipped away off the seam and clipped the top of off stump saw Root bowled by Cummins for his third nought of the series and second golden duck. Cummins was on a hat-trick, with the struggling Jason Roy next in but the World Cup winner responded with a solid forward defensive shot and he was eight not out at stumps, with Joe Denly unbeaten on 10. 'Unbelievable Smith' Earlier, Smith's ninth successive Ashes fifty, extending his own record, followed his superb 211 in the first innings of his comeback Test after he missed the match at Headingley with concussion. In what is his first Test series since completing a 12-month ball-tampering ban, former Australia captain Smith has now scored 671 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of 134.2. He was on course to become the first batsman in Ashes history, and only the eighth in any Test, to score a double hundred and hundred in the same match when he lofted left-arm spinner Leach with Stokes, running round from long-off, holding a safe catch to end a 92-ball innings featuring 11 fours. Australia were in trouble at 44-4 before tea, with Stuart Broad and Archer taking two wickets apiece after England narrowly avoided following-on in reply to the tourists' 497-8 declared. But Smith counter-attacked in superb style. "None of us expected the innings Smithy went out with, he was incredible," said Cummins. "We'd have been happy to get though the night but Smithy was unbelievable." Meanwhile, England coach Trevor Bayliss insisted: "Anything is possible. We saw that in the last Test match. "We have got a couple guys out there and a few guys in the shed who are more than capable of scoring a hundred," the Australian added. Smith did give a chance on 48 when he reverse-swept Leach, with Stokes, anticipating the shot and moving quickly across from slip, failing to hold what would have been a sensational catch. The 30-year-old Smith toyed with England's bowlers on a sunny afternoon, pulling Broad for an extravagant four. While Smith has enjoyed a run-spree, David Warner -- also returning to Tests from a year-long ball-tampering ban -- has become Broad's 'bunny'. Saturday saw left-handed opener Warner out for his third straight Test duck when Broad, the successful bowler on each occasion, had him lbw. It was the sixth time Warner had fallen to Broad this Ashes and meant he had completed 'a pair' in the match after a nought in the first innings. World Cup-winner Archer, in only his third Test, had been down on pace during Australia's first innings. But the express quick was back over the 90 mph mark on Saturday during a return of 3-45 in 14 overs.

Cummins strikes to leave Australia on verge of keeping Ashes

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have discussed holding new peace talks after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-carry-out-prisoner-swap-trump-calls-it-first-giant-step-to-peace-248311">landmark prisoner exchange</a>.

Their offices said Putin and Zelensky spoke by phone late on Saturday after the long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners.

Zelensky's office said both leaders were "satisfied with the result of the implementation of the agreements" on the exchange.

"The presidents of the two countries also agreed to discuss in the near future the date of holding a summit within the framework of the Normandy format" which also includes France and Germany.

The Kremlin said the prisoner exchange had "major significance" for the improvement of bilateral ties and that the two sides had agreed to remain in contact.

Putin stressed the importance of conducting preparations for a new summit.

Efforts have intensified to ease tensions between Moscow and Kiev since Zelensky's election in April.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a summit of the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany this month.&nbsp;

Among the prisoners swapped were 24 Ukrainian sailors, Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov and Russian-Ukrainian journalist Kyrylo Vyshynsky.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have discussed holding new peace talks after a landmark prisoner exchange. Their offices said Putin and Zelensky spoke by phone late on Saturday after the long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have discussed holding new peace talks after a landmark prisoner exchange. Their offices said Putin and Zelensky spoke by phone late on Saturday after the long-awaited swap of 70 prisoners. Zelensky's office said both leaders were "satisfied with the result of the implementation of the agreements" on the exchange. "The presidents of the two countries also agreed to discuss in the near future the date of holding a summit within the framework of the Normandy format" which also includes France and Germany. The Kremlin said the prisoner exchange had "major significance" for the improvement of bilateral ties and that the two sides had agreed to remain in contact. Putin stressed the importance of conducting preparations for a new summit. Efforts have intensified to ease tensions between Moscow and Kiev since Zelensky's election in April. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a summit of the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany this month. Among the prisoners swapped were 24 Ukrainian sailors, Ukrainian filmmaker Oleg Sentsov and Russian-Ukrainian journalist Kyrylo Vyshynsky.

Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky eye new talks after prisoner swap

Chandrayaan-2: Orbiter clicks thermal image of Lander Vikram, ISRO tries to establish contact with it

Two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-no-more-under-heatwave-alert-231966">heatwaves that hit France </a>this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday.

But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-time-hottest-temperature-in-france-recorded-at-443c-weather-service-231244">heatwave</a>.

"We have 1,500 deaths recorded more than the average for these months, so that's 10 times fewer deaths than the 2003 heatwave," Buzyn told French radio.

This year's heatwaves hit France in June and July, with a new record temperature of 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in the south on June 28.

While the 2003 heatwave lasted 20 days in all, this year's lasted for 18, in two separate heatwaves, the second covering a large part of France, Buzyn added.

The authorities' preventive measures helped keep the death rate well below the high numbers experienced in 2003, she added.

The 2003 heatwave was the deadliest recorded in France, with the central and Paris regions hardest hit.

Two heatwaves that hit France this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday. But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August heatwave.

Two heatwaves that hit France this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday. But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August heatwave. "We have 1,500 deaths recorded more than the average for these months, so that's 10 times fewer deaths than the 2003 heatwave," Buzyn told French radio. This year's heatwaves hit France in June and July, with a new record temperature of 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in the south on June 28. While the 2003 heatwave lasted 20 days in all, this year's lasted for 18, in two separate heatwaves, the second covering a large part of France, Buzyn added. The authorities' preventive measures helped keep the death rate well below the high numbers experienced in 2003, she added. The 2003 heatwave was the deadliest recorded in France, with the central and Paris regions hardest hit.

France's summer heatwaves claimed 1,500 lives: Minister

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Punitipandey

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.