White House economic adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-talks-likely-to-heat-up-in-october-meeting-kudlow-248069">Larry Kudlow </a>said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve.

Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Kudlow said that although the United States and China have been negotiating on trade and intellectual property issues for 18 months, that was a short period of time in terms of what was at stake and negotiations could go on much longer.

"A deal of this size and scope and central global importance, I don't think 18 months is a very long time," Kudlow said.

"The stakes are so high, we have to get it right, and if that takes a decade, so be it," Kudlow added, drawing parallels to US&nbsp;Cold War competition against the Soviet Union.

But in confirming talks between the high-level US&nbsp;and Chinese officials in early October, Kudlow declined to predict outcomes or a specific timeline for reaching any agreements.

The plans for the first in-person US and&nbsp;China trade meetings since late July were set during a phone call on Thursday between Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Trade deputies are due to meet in mid-September.

'Back to May'

The 14-month <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-war-to-knock-05-points-off-global-growth-french-finance-minister-247859">US and China trade war</a> has escalated sharply since May when talks broke down after Beijing backtracked on earlier commitments to make changes in the law to improve intellectual property protections, curb the forced transfer of US technology to Chinese firms and improve the US access to Chinese markets.

Since then, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-bullish-on-china-tariffs-but-aide-warns-of-long-haul-248138">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> has sharply increased existing tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and imposed or scheduled new tariffs on virtually all remaining imports from China to increase his negotiating leverage.

Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that he could not speculate on whether the September or October talks could delay a planned tariff increase on October&nbsp;1 to 30 per cent&nbsp;from 25 per cent&nbsp;on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods.

"We would like to go back to where we were last May, but I don't know if that's possible, and I don't want to predict any outcomes. This is a difficult matter," told reporters at the White House.

He also said that it was important that Chinese reforms be reflected in changes to its laws and that any deal must have enforcement provisions to ensure that China lives up to its commitments.

'Everything on table'

He said on Fox Business Network that the September and October talks would cover all of the core issues in the dispute.

"Everything will be on the table. You can rest assured, for example, the absolute key structural issues the IP theft, the forced transfer of technology, the cyberspace, the clouds, financial services, all of that will be on the table&nbsp;agriculture purchases, industrial purchases, energy purchases, getting tariff and non-tariff barriers down," Kudlow said.

While there were no precondition talks, Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that the Trump administration wants "to see results in the near term."

"When we don't see results, we take additional actions," Kudlow said. "On the other hand, if we do see results from these upcoming meetings, then progress will be made."

Trump said on Twitter that China was hurting economically from the US&nbsp;tariffs but that the new round of talks was positive.

"'China is eating the Tariffs,'" Trump tweeted. "Billions pouring into the USA. Targeted Patriot Farmers getting massive Dollars from the incoming Tariffs!

Good Jobs Numbers, No Inflation(Fed). China having the worst year in decades. Talks happening, good for all!"

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Friday the United States wants "near term" results from the US, China trade talks in September and October but cautioned that the trade conflict could take years to resolve. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Kudlow said that although the United States and China have been negotiating on trade and intellectual property issues for 18 months, that was a short period of time in terms of what was at stake and negotiations could go on much longer. "A deal of this size and scope and central global importance, I don't think 18 months is a very long time," Kudlow said. "The stakes are so high, we have to get it right, and if that takes a decade, so be it," Kudlow added, drawing parallels to US Cold War competition against the Soviet Union. But in confirming talks between the high-level US and Chinese officials in early October, Kudlow declined to predict outcomes or a specific timeline for reaching any agreements. The plans for the first in-person US and China trade meetings since late July were set during a phone call on Thursday between Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Trade deputies are due to meet in mid-September. 'Back to May' The 14-month US and China trade war has escalated sharply since May when talks broke down after Beijing backtracked on earlier commitments to make changes in the law to improve intellectual property protections, curb the forced transfer of US technology to Chinese firms and improve the US access to Chinese markets. Since then, US President Donald Trump has sharply increased existing tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and imposed or scheduled new tariffs on virtually all remaining imports from China to increase his negotiating leverage. Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that he could not speculate on whether the September or October talks could delay a planned tariff increase on October 1 to 30 per cent from 25 per cent on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods. "We would like to go back to where we were last May, but I don't know if that's possible, and I don't want to predict any outcomes. This is a difficult matter," told reporters at the White House. He also said that it was important that Chinese reforms be reflected in changes to its laws and that any deal must have enforcement provisions to ensure that China lives up to its commitments. 'Everything on table' He said on Fox Business Network that the September and October talks would cover all of the core issues in the dispute. "Everything will be on the table. You can rest assured, for example, the absolute key structural issues the IP theft, the forced transfer of technology, the cyberspace, the clouds, financial services, all of that will be on the table agriculture purchases, industrial purchases, energy purchases, getting tariff and non-tariff barriers down," Kudlow said. While there were no precondition talks, Kudlow told Bloomberg TV that the Trump administration wants "to see results in the near term." "When we don't see results, we take additional actions," Kudlow said. "On the other hand, if we do see results from these upcoming meetings, then progress will be made." Trump said on Twitter that China was hurting economically from the US tariffs but that the new round of talks was positive. "'China is eating the Tariffs,'" Trump tweeted. "Billions pouring into the USA. Targeted Patriot Farmers getting massive Dollars from the incoming Tariffs! Good Jobs Numbers, No Inflation(Fed). China having the worst year in decades. Talks happening, good for all!"

US, China trade conflict could take years to resolve: White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow

Omaid Sharifi, who heads a Kabul-based art collective, sits in his studio and leafs through a stack of dozens of hand-written letters, reading out sentences at random.

A line in one missive, written in Dari and spelt out in huge letters, states simply, "We want peace," Sharifi says.

"By peace, they just mean a ceasefire, just stop this nonsense violence," he explains.

The letters are the fruit of a recent initiative by ArtLords, a not-for-profit group that Sharifi co-founded and runs, which aims to give a voice to young Afghans who feel ignored and powerless as the war rages on.

In a pilot project in Kabul, where more than 30 people were killed by blasts in the past week, ArtLords is building on the Afghan tradition of penning "dard-e-dil" -- letters of pain.

The scheme allows people living in an ultra-conservative society to find freedom by sharing their passions and emotions in written form.

Sharifi and his team have placed six large wooden letter boxes -- painted white and decorated with love hearts -- in high schools, universities and cafes around the Afghan capital and invited people to share their stories.

"Whenever you want to share your deep thoughts, you write letters," Sharifi says.&nbsp;

"So we asked the youngsters to write letters about their fears, about their solutions, about their hopes."

Within the first two weeks of the project, they had more than 300 letters, Sharifi says.

He reads from another, this one addressed to the Kabul government.

"'We are in a very bad situation,'" he quotes.

"'We need your attention because every single day we are dying from the fear of explosions and the fear that I might die today -- in the car, in the office, in the university...' He says nowhere is safe."

Watch: 'US Troops Would Remain in Afghanistan' says Donald Trump

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Angry and ignored

The project launched a few weeks ago, just as talks between the US and the Taliban seemed to be entering their final stages.

They are working on a deal that would see the Pentagon pull about 5,000 troops from Afghanistan by early next year, in return for various security guarantees from the insurgents.

But so far, the negotiations have all but excluded the Afghan government, and many Afghans -- particularly educated young people in urban cores -- feel angry and ignored.

The US says it is up to the Kabul government and Afghan society at large to forge an eventual peace deal with the Taliban that protects basic freedoms.

But many fear a jaded America is selling out their interests in its bid to quit Afghanistan after 18 years of grinding and costly war.

The young letter writers want "an inclusive peace process that takes into consideration all realities of Afghanistan," Sharif told AFP at ArtLords' colourful base in Kabul, where artworks cover the walls and where anyone can walk in and paint a picture.

The 32-year-old artist is well known around Kabul and across Afghanistan thanks to ArtLords' prolific output, which centres mainly on the painting of huge murals on the capital's labyrinth of blast walls that divide the city into militarised ghettos.

The latest mural project ArtLords has undertaken is to paint one red tulip for each and every Afghan civilian killed in the war -- some 35,000 in all since 2001.

Each "one of these tulips is a story of someone," Sharifi said. Many of the flowers will be painted at the scene of the explosion or attack that claimed an innocent life.

Sharifi hopes to expand the letter-writing campaign across Afghanistan. He said the contents of all the letters would be shared with President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, the US and even the Taliban.

"I know that the president has read all of the letters ... and he is aware of what the young ones are expecting of him in that whole peace process," Sharifi said

Omaid Sharifi, who heads a Kabul-based art collective, sits in his studio and leafs through a stack of dozens of hand-written letters, reading out sentences at random.

Omaid Sharifi, who heads a Kabul-based art collective, sits in his studio and leafs through a stack of dozens of hand-written letters, reading out sentences at random. A line in one missive, written in Dari and spelt out in huge letters, states simply, "We want peace," Sharifi says. "By peace, they just mean a ceasefire, just stop this nonsense violence," he explains. The letters are the fruit of a recent initiative by ArtLords, a not-for-profit group that Sharifi co-founded and runs, which aims to give a voice to young Afghans who feel ignored and powerless as the war rages on. In a pilot project in Kabul, where more than 30 people were killed by blasts in the past week, ArtLords is building on the Afghan tradition of penning "dard-e-dil" -- letters of pain. The scheme allows people living in an ultra-conservative society to find freedom by sharing their passions and emotions in written form. Sharifi and his team have placed six large wooden letter boxes -- painted white and decorated with love hearts -- in high schools, universities and cafes around the Afghan capital and invited people to share their stories. "Whenever you want to share your deep thoughts, you write letters," Sharifi says. "So we asked the youngsters to write letters about their fears, about their solutions, about their hopes." Within the first two weeks of the project, they had more than 300 letters, Sharifi says. He reads from another, this one addressed to the Kabul government. "'We are in a very bad situation,'" he quotes. "'We need your attention because every single day we are dying from the fear of explosions and the fear that I might die today -- in the car, in the office, in the university...' He says nowhere is safe." Watch: 'US Troops Would Remain in Afghanistan' says Donald Trump × Angry and ignored The project launched a few weeks ago, just as talks between the US and the Taliban seemed to be entering their final stages. They are working on a deal that would see the Pentagon pull about 5,000 troops from Afghanistan by early next year, in return for various security guarantees from the insurgents. But so far, the negotiations have all but excluded the Afghan government, and many Afghans -- particularly educated young people in urban cores -- feel angry and ignored. The US says it is up to the Kabul government and Afghan society at large to forge an eventual peace deal with the Taliban that protects basic freedoms. But many fear a jaded America is selling out their interests in its bid to quit Afghanistan after 18 years of grinding and costly war. The young letter writers want "an inclusive peace process that takes into consideration all realities of Afghanistan," Sharif told AFP at ArtLords' colourful base in Kabul, where artworks cover the walls and where anyone can walk in and paint a picture. The 32-year-old artist is well known around Kabul and across Afghanistan thanks to ArtLords' prolific output, which centres mainly on the painting of huge murals on the capital's labyrinth of blast walls that divide the city into militarised ghettos. The latest mural project ArtLords has undertaken is to paint one red tulip for each and every Afghan civilian killed in the war -- some 35,000 in all since 2001. Each "one of these tulips is a story of someone," Sharifi said. Many of the flowers will be painted at the scene of the explosion or attack that claimed an innocent life. Sharifi hopes to expand the letter-writing campaign across Afghanistan. He said the contents of all the letters would be shared with President Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, the US and even the Taliban. "I know that the president has read all of the letters ... and he is aware of what the young ones are expecting of him in that whole peace process," Sharifi said

Sidelined young Afghans pen 'letters of pain' as war rages

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday.

Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine`s security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in an exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign ministry said.

Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardise the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday.

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday.

Ukraine has included a man suspected of involvement in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines flight over eastern Ukraine in 2014, which killed 298 people, in a prisoner swap with Russia, the Dutch government said on Saturday. Volodymyr Tsemakh, whom Ukraine`s security service has identified as a former commander of Russian-backed separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, was transferred to Russia in an exchange of prisoners between Moscow and Kiev, the Dutch Foreign ministry said. Dutch prosecutors had urged Kiev not to allow Tsemakh to travel to Russia, fearing this could jeopardise the investigation into Flight MH17. He was released on bail by a Ukrainian court on Thursday.

MH17 suspect among prisoners swapped by Ukraine with Russia: Dutch government

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"We are sure the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will be back in power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The alliance will be there. I am assuring you in the presence of Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) sure that Ram Mandir will be constructed under his leadership in Ayodhya," said Thackeray at a function organised to mark the laying of foundation stone for three metro lines."

As soon as PM Modi arrived here, I asked him for how many things I should thank him and wish him? All those things which we had been promising to bring in and implement for so many years have now been fulfilled by PM Modi. I am proud that Article 370 has been abrogated. This promise has been fulfilled. I am sure that we will build the Ram temple in Ayodhya," he added.

This was not the first time when Thackeray mentioned about the construction of Ram Mandir under Modi`s leadership.

Earlier in June too while addressing the party workers, Thackeray had stated, "I have said in Ayodhya that the Ram Mandir will be constructed during the tenure of the Modi government."

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for three metro lines, which will together add more than 42-km to the existing metro network of Mumbai.

These three corridors are -- 9.2-km long Gaimukh to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road) Metro-10 corridor, 12.7-km long Wadala to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Metro-11 corridor and 20.7-km long Kalyan to Taloja Metro-12 corridor.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Metro Bhavan, which will operate and control 14 metro lines measuring around 340 km.

During his visit, PM Modi also inaugurated Bandongri Metro station in Kandivali East. He also inaugurated a state-of-the-art metro coach, the first metro coach under the Make in India initiative. At an event here, Prime Minister Modi also released a `Brand Vision Document` for Maha Mumbai Metro.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "We are sure the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will be back in power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The alliance will be there. I am assuring you in the presence of Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) sure that Ram Mandir will be constructed under his leadership in Ayodhya," said Thackeray at a function organised to mark the laying of foundation stone for three metro lines." As soon as PM Modi arrived here, I asked him for how many things I should thank him and wish him? All those things which we had been promising to bring in and implement for so many years have now been fulfilled by PM Modi. I am proud that Article 370 has been abrogated. This promise has been fulfilled. I am sure that we will build the Ram temple in Ayodhya," he added. This was not the first time when Thackeray mentioned about the construction of Ram Mandir under Modi`s leadership. Earlier in June too while addressing the party workers, Thackeray had stated, "I have said in Ayodhya that the Ram Mandir will be constructed during the tenure of the Modi government." Prime Minister Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for three metro lines, which will together add more than 42-km to the existing metro network of Mumbai. These three corridors are -- 9.2-km long Gaimukh to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road) Metro-10 corridor, 12.7-km long Wadala to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Metro-11 corridor and 20.7-km long Kalyan to Taloja Metro-12 corridor. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Metro Bhavan, which will operate and control 14 metro lines measuring around 340 km. During his visit, PM Modi also inaugurated Bandongri Metro station in Kandivali East. He also inaugurated a state-of-the-art metro coach, the first metro coach under the Make in India initiative. At an event here, Prime Minister Modi also released a `Brand Vision Document` for Maha Mumbai Metro.

Ram Mandir will be constructed under PM Modi's leadership: Uddhav Thackeray

A Delhi court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-case-delhi-court-reserves-order-on-christian-michels-bail-plea-246440">AgustaWestland </a>VVIP chopper deal.

Special Judge Arvind Kumar rejected Michel`s plea in the case filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-scam-ratul-puri-moves-application-in-cbi-court-for-surrendering-244815">CBI</a>) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

He was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal.

While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a "middleman" in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him.

Watch: Christian Michel's lawyer speaks to WION

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Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) D P Singh, appearing for CBI and ED, had earlier opposed his bail plea, asserting that the investigation is still underway.

Through a reply copy, both the investigating agencies had told the court that it would file a supplementary charge sheet in the case since sufficient evidence attributing criminality against other public servants and private persons has surfaced during the ongoing probe.

The agencies have said in the past that the British national is a flight risk and could flee the country.&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. Special Judge Arvind Kumar rejected Michel`s plea in the case filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

A Delhi court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. Special Judge Arvind Kumar rejected Michel`s plea in the case filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). He was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal. While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a "middleman" in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him. Watch: Christian Michel's lawyer speaks to WION × Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) D P Singh, appearing for CBI and ED, had earlier opposed his bail plea, asserting that the investigation is still underway. Through a reply copy, both the investigating agencies had told the court that it would file a supplementary charge sheet in the case since sufficient evidence attributing criminality against other public servants and private persons has surfaced during the ongoing probe. The agencies have said in the past that the British national is a flight risk and could flee the country.

AgustaWestland case: Court dismisses bail plea of Christian Michel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for keeping a brisk pace of work, on Saturday delivered a speech at the ISRO Space Centre in the morning and addressed gatherings at Mumbai and Aurangabad, all within a gap of eight hours.

His address to the nation from ISRO control centre came after he had early Saturday witnessed the descent of Vikram module of Chandrayaan II mission which lost communication with ground stations at an altitude of 2.1 metres from the moon.&nbsp;

Modi returned to Delhi early on Friday after a three-day visit to Russia which was packed with engagements. He had a summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and took part in Eastern Economic Forum meeting in Vladivostok. He also had bilateral meetings with leaders of Japan, Malaysia, and Mongolia on the sidelines of the forum meeting.&nbsp;

He flew to Bengaluru on Friday evening to witness the descent of Chandrayan-2 mission. After his morning speech at ISRO control centre, Prime Minister reached Mumbai to lay the foundation stone of metro lines and launch other projects.&nbsp;

He later addressed a `mahila sammelan` in Aurangabad. BJP leaders say the Prime Minister has not had a single day of rest in the past over five years.&nbsp;

"It`s so simple. He lands Delhi at 4 am after 5000km journey, had a busy schedule whole day, including a video address, reached Bangalore, remained awake till 3 am, again reached ISRO at 8 am and left for Mumbai and Aurangabad to push his development agenda," party leader Vijay Chauthaiwale tweeted.

Sources also said that Modi never thought for a moment to avoid personally witnessing ISRO`s plan to soft-land Chandrayaan-2`s Vikram module on the lunar surface even though the success rate of soft landing missions is less than 40 per cent.

"The fact that the Prime Minister should avoid Bengaluru because the moon landing might not have been a complete success was not a consideration even for a moment," sources said on Saturday.

PM Modi watched the proceedings early Saturday as the lander began its descent towards the moon. The descent was perfect till an altitude of 2.1 km when communication from lander `Vikram` was lost to ground stations.

In his address to the nation from ISRO Control Centre on Saturday morning, Modi lauded their efforts towards Chandrayaan 2, India`s second moon mission and its first attempt at soft-landing on the surface of the moon.&nbsp;

He asserted that there will be "new dawn".

"India is proud of our scientists! They`ve given their best and have always made India proud. These are moments to be courageous, and courageous we will be," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for keeping a brisk pace of work, on Saturday delivered a speech at the ISRO Space Centre in the morning and addressed gatherings at Mumbai and Aurangabad, all within a gap of eight hours.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for keeping a brisk pace of work, on Saturday delivered a speech at the ISRO Space Centre in the morning and addressed gatherings at Mumbai and Aurangabad, all within a gap of eight hours. His address to the nation from ISRO control centre came after he had early Saturday witnessed the descent of Vikram module of Chandrayaan II mission which lost communication with ground stations at an altitude of 2.1 metres from the moon. Modi returned to Delhi early on Friday after a three-day visit to Russia which was packed with engagements. He had a summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and took part in Eastern Economic Forum meeting in Vladivostok. He also had bilateral meetings with leaders of Japan, Malaysia, and Mongolia on the sidelines of the forum meeting. He flew to Bengaluru on Friday evening to witness the descent of Chandrayan-2 mission. After his morning speech at ISRO control centre, Prime Minister reached Mumbai to lay the foundation stone of metro lines and launch other projects. He later addressed a `mahila sammelan` in Aurangabad. BJP leaders say the Prime Minister has not had a single day of rest in the past over five years. "It`s so simple. He lands Delhi at 4 am after 5000km journey, had a busy schedule whole day, including a video address, reached Bangalore, remained awake till 3 am, again reached ISRO at 8 am and left for Mumbai and Aurangabad to push his development agenda," party leader Vijay Chauthaiwale tweeted. Sources also said that Modi never thought for a moment to avoid personally witnessing ISRO`s plan to soft-land Chandrayaan-2`s Vikram module on the lunar surface even though the success rate of soft landing missions is less than 40 per cent. "The fact that the Prime Minister should avoid Bengaluru because the moon landing might not have been a complete success was not a consideration even for a moment," sources said on Saturday. PM Modi watched the proceedings early Saturday as the lander began its descent towards the moon. The descent was perfect till an altitude of 2.1 km when communication from lander `Vikram` was lost to ground stations. In his address to the nation from ISRO Control Centre on Saturday morning, Modi lauded their efforts towards Chandrayaan 2, India`s second moon mission and its first attempt at soft-landing on the surface of the moon. He asserted that there will be "new dawn". "India is proud of our scientists! They`ve given their best and have always made India proud. These are moments to be courageous, and courageous we will be," he said.

PM Modi keeps brisk pace of work, addresses three gatherings on Saturday

Journalist Priya Ramani, against whom former Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mj-akbar-files-defamation-case-against-female-journalists-171575">MJ Akbar had filed a defamation case </a>for levelling sexual harassment allegations, on Saturday explained in a Delhi court about her article in the Vogue magazine.

Speaking about her article in Vogue magazine, Ramani said, "Yes, I wrote an article. Vogue`s features editor Shehnaz Siganporia called me and asked if I could write an article about the behaviour of male bosses in the context of the American MeToo movement and the allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, which ranged from calling women to his hotel room and multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and rape."

She asserted while doing research for the article, she could not help not remembering her personal story of meeting her first male boss, Akbar.

"So I began the article with my MJ Akbar story. I never named him. The first four paragraphs of the article were a brief account of what happened at The Oberoi Hotel in 1993 (where she for a job interview with Akbar in the evening)," Ramani said.

"The portions in quotations referred to specific allegations against Harvey by many women. I mainly read four articles about the sexual harassment charges against Harvey and these portions were sourced from there. These articles appeared in Newyoker, the New York Times and Variety," she said explaining the article.

Watch: MJ Akbar Resigns as Union Minister

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Recounting her days with Asian Age, Ramani said she began her job with Asian Age, New Delhi, as a correspondent in January 1994 but she was transferred to Mumbai.&nbsp; 
"I urged the editor to transfer me to Mumbai as I could not find good accommodation in Delhi and I could save on rent if I live with my parents," she said.

After moving to Mumbai, I never met Mr Akbar alone in the Delhi office or Mumbai office again, Ramani said maintaining that "We (Ramani and Akbar) always interacted during edit meetings or when he visited Mumbai office."

Ramani was the first woman to accuse Akbar of sexual harassment during the #MeToo campaign.

Akbar, the former Minister of State for External Affairs, had filed a defamation case against the journalist for accusing him of sexual misconduct.

The allegations levelled against him forced him to resign from the Union Cabinet on 17 October 2018.&nbsp;

Journalist Priya Ramani, against whom former Union Minister MJ Akbar had filed a defamation case for levelling sexual harassment allegations, on Saturday explained in a Delhi court about her article in the Vogue magazine.

Journalist Priya Ramani, against whom former Union Minister MJ Akbar had filed a defamation case for levelling sexual harassment allegations, on Saturday explained in a Delhi court about her article in the Vogue magazine. Speaking about her article in Vogue magazine, Ramani said, "Yes, I wrote an article. Vogue`s features editor Shehnaz Siganporia called me and asked if I could write an article about the behaviour of male bosses in the context of the American MeToo movement and the allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, which ranged from calling women to his hotel room and multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and rape." She asserted while doing research for the article, she could not help not remembering her personal story of meeting her first male boss, Akbar. "So I began the article with my MJ Akbar story. I never named him. The first four paragraphs of the article were a brief account of what happened at The Oberoi Hotel in 1993 (where she for a job interview with Akbar in the evening)," Ramani said. "The portions in quotations referred to specific allegations against Harvey by many women. I mainly read four articles about the sexual harassment charges against Harvey and these portions were sourced from there. These articles appeared in Newyoker, the New York Times and Variety," she said explaining the article. Watch: MJ Akbar Resigns as Union Minister × Recounting her days with Asian Age, Ramani said she began her job with Asian Age, New Delhi, as a correspondent in January 1994 but she was transferred to Mumbai. "I urged the editor to transfer me to Mumbai as I could not find good accommodation in Delhi and I could save on rent if I live with my parents," she said. After moving to Mumbai, I never met Mr Akbar alone in the Delhi office or Mumbai office again, Ramani said maintaining that "We (Ramani and Akbar) always interacted during edit meetings or when he visited Mumbai office." Ramani was the first woman to accuse Akbar of sexual harassment during the #MeToo campaign. Akbar, the former Minister of State for External Affairs, had filed a defamation case against the journalist for accusing him of sexual misconduct. The allegations levelled against him forced him to resign from the Union Cabinet on 17 October 2018.

MJ Akbar defamation case: Priya Ramani explains about her article in a magazine

Former Space Scientist PC Ghosh and Scientist Amitabh Pandey asserted that the reason behind<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vikram-hasnt-crashed-communication-channel-between-orbiter-and-lander-is-still-on-former-isro-director-248156"> communication breakdown </a>has not been discovered yet. However, partial success has been achieved as the Orbiter is working perfectly fine in the space.

"We are unaware of the fact that why the communication had broken down. The orbiter is working perfectly fine. The objective will be achieved and probably the scientists will ask the Orbiter to capture a picture. The objective of achieving a soft landing has not been achieved. This is not big disappointment rather it is a partial success," said Ghosh while speaking to ANI.

Ghosh further appreciated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-an-emotional-moment-pm-modi-hugs-consoles-teary-eyed-isro-chief-248168">Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s efforts</a> for supporting the scientists at ISRO, Bengaluru.

"The Prime Minister was echoing the achievement of the ISRO. We are hoping that Chandrayaan-2 will overcome everything. The orbiter is still working fine and it can check the physicality over there," he added.

"There were a lot of objectives behind this mission. There was a communication break-down in between and the reasons behind it are not known till now. Maybe it will be discovered later. The objective of this mission was to test the abilities of our technology. We have faced a small loophole in this mission but overall it will provide us with many facts in the future," said Pandey.

Pandey took a jibe at Prime Minister Modi and said, "Prime Minister should increase the budget along with the confidence. Scientists are human beings too; their biggest emotion is attached to their research."

The Vikram lander was planned to land on the far side of the moon between 1:30 am to 2:30 am on the intervening night of Friday-Saturday. This would have been followed by rover (Pragyan) roll-out between 5:30 am to 6:30 am.ISRO had lost communication with Vikram lander of Chandrayaan 2 moments before it was preparing to make a soft-landing on the South Pole region of the Moon.

In the wee hours of Saturday, ISRO chairman K Sivan announced that communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface.

The Vikram lander was successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter on September 2. The Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in its existing orbit.

After revolving around the Earth`s orbit for nearly 23 days, the spacecraft began its journey to the moon on August 14.

The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.

India`s second mission to the moon was approved by the cabinet on September 2008, just before the launch of Chandrayaan 1.&nbsp;

Former Space Scientist PC Ghosh and Scientist Amitabh Pandey asserted that the reason behind communication breakdown has not been discovered yet. However, partial success has been achieved as the Orbiter is working perfectly fine in the space.

Former Space Scientist PC Ghosh and Scientist Amitabh Pandey asserted that the reason behind communication breakdown has not been discovered yet. However, partial success has been achieved as the Orbiter is working perfectly fine in the space. "We are unaware of the fact that why the communication had broken down. The orbiter is working perfectly fine. The objective will be achieved and probably the scientists will ask the Orbiter to capture a picture. The objective of achieving a soft landing has not been achieved. This is not big disappointment rather it is a partial success," said Ghosh while speaking to ANI. Ghosh further appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s efforts for supporting the scientists at ISRO, Bengaluru. "The Prime Minister was echoing the achievement of the ISRO. We are hoping that Chandrayaan-2 will overcome everything. The orbiter is still working fine and it can check the physicality over there," he added. "There were a lot of objectives behind this mission. There was a communication break-down in between and the reasons behind it are not known till now. Maybe it will be discovered later. The objective of this mission was to test the abilities of our technology. We have faced a small loophole in this mission but overall it will provide us with many facts in the future," said Pandey. Pandey took a jibe at Prime Minister Modi and said, "Prime Minister should increase the budget along with the confidence. Scientists are human beings too; their biggest emotion is attached to their research." The Vikram lander was planned to land on the far side of the moon between 1:30 am to 2:30 am on the intervening night of Friday-Saturday. This would have been followed by rover (Pragyan) roll-out between 5:30 am to 6:30 am.ISRO had lost communication with Vikram lander of Chandrayaan 2 moments before it was preparing to make a soft-landing on the South Pole region of the Moon. In the wee hours of Saturday, ISRO chairman K Sivan announced that communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface. The Vikram lander was successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter on September 2. The Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in its existing orbit. After revolving around the Earth`s orbit for nearly 23 days, the spacecraft began its journey to the moon on August 14. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22. India`s second mission to the moon was approved by the cabinet on September 2008, just before the launch of Chandrayaan 1.

Chandrayaan-2: Reason behind communication breakdown still not known, say Scientists

<div class="content" itemprop="articleBody">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Bengaluru at about 9:40 pm today to watch the soft landing of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-landing-where-no-one-has-gone-before-isro-chief-on-chandrayaan-2-248051"> Chandrayaan-2 on the moon</a> on early Saturday.

Modi landed at Kempegowda International Airport from New Delhi where he was received by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. He will head to ISRO headquarters for the event.

The Prime Minister will watch the final descent of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-soft-landing-on-the-moon-248031">Chandrayaan-2</a> with over 60 high school students who cleared an online space quiz last month. 
Earlier in the day, he asked the countrymen to watch the historic event.

"I am extremely excited to be at the ISRO centre in Bengaluru to witness the extraordinary moment in the history of India's space programme. Youngsters from different states will also be present to watch those special moments! There would also be youngsters from Bhutan," Modi said in a tweet.

Chandrayaan-2's lander Vikram will soft-land on the south pole of the lunar surface between 1:30 am and 2 pm on Saturday.&nbsp;
</div>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Bengaluru at about 9:40 pm today to watch the soft landing of Chandrayaan-2 on the moon on early Saturday. Modi landed at Kempegowda International Airport from New Delhi where he was received by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Bengaluru at about 9:40 pm today to watch the soft landing of Chandrayaan-2 on the moon on early Saturday. Modi landed at Kempegowda International Airport from New Delhi where he was received by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. He will head to ISRO headquarters for the event. The Prime Minister will watch the final descent of Chandrayaan-2 with over 60 high school students who cleared an online space quiz last month. Earlier in the day, he asked the countrymen to watch the historic event. "I am extremely excited to be at the ISRO centre in Bengaluru to witness the extraordinary moment in the history of India's space programme. Youngsters from different states will also be present to watch those special moments! There would also be youngsters from Bhutan," Modi said in a tweet. Chandrayaan-2's lander Vikram will soft-land on the south pole of the lunar surface between 1:30 am and 2 pm on Saturday.

PM Modi reaches Bengaluru to watch Chandrayaan-2 landing

Pakistan has been lobbying with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pulled-up-by-fatss-sub-group-for-failing-to-meet-terror-financing-commitment-244967">Financial Action Task Force (FATF)</a> which is due to present, by October, its evaluation report on Islamabad`s action plan to curb terror financing.

Last month, the FATF`s regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation.

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.&nbsp;

In addition, terrorists like Hafiz Saeed are regularly seen ranting anti-India rhetoric and collecting so-called donations.

The FATF recently gave 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.

One of the constant themes of Pakistani propaganda has been that various countries -- primarily India -- were politicising FATF`s proceedings.

However, the reality is different. In a run-up to the FATF Plenary scheduled to be held in Paris from October 13 to 18 where Pakistan`s compliance with the action plan will be assessed, Islamabad has been engaged in hectic lobbying in a desperate bid to influence the outcome in its favour.&nbsp;

In addition, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet leaders from Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Africa, Turkey, France, Germany, Britain and Canada on the sidelines of 74th session of United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 17 to 20.

Khan`s meetings have also been proposed with the leaders of Indonesia, Australia, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, the United States, Mexico and Argentina to muster support on issues related to FATF and grey-listing process.

Pakistan`s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is also scheduled to seek support from Kuwait, Sweden, South Korea, China, Oman, Qatar, UAE, Russia, Greece Austria, Spain, Luxembourg, Ireland, Brazil and other countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

During recent assessments, Pakistan has been rated low on 10 out of 11 FATF immediate outcomes, and partially or non-compliant on 30 out of 40 FATF recommendations as per its mutual evaluation report.

Under the FATF action plan, Pakistan has nothing substantial to show by way of terror-related seizures in the list of over 900 seized properties of various terror organisations. Nor were formal terror financing cases lodged or investigations completed since February 2018.

Thus, Pakistan has been largely non-compliant on all parameters stipulated by the FATF.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been lobbying with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) which is due to present, by October, its evaluation report on Islamabad`s action plan to curb terror financing.

Pakistan has been lobbying with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) which is due to present, by October, its evaluation report on Islamabad`s action plan to curb terror financing. Last month, the FATF`s regional affiliate Asia-Pacific Group (APG) had put Pakistan in the enhanced expedited follow-up list, a category reserved for countries having major deficiencies in their anti-money-laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework and implementation. 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. In addition, terrorists like Hafiz Saeed are regularly seen ranting anti-India rhetoric and collecting so-called donations. The FATF recently gave 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. One of the constant themes of Pakistani propaganda has been that various countries -- primarily India -- were politicising FATF`s proceedings. However, the reality is different. In a run-up to the FATF Plenary scheduled to be held in Paris from October 13 to 18 where Pakistan`s compliance with the action plan will be assessed, Islamabad has been engaged in hectic lobbying in a desperate bid to influence the outcome in its favour. In addition, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will meet leaders from Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Africa, Turkey, France, Germany, Britain and Canada on the sidelines of 74th session of United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 17 to 20. Khan`s meetings have also been proposed with the leaders of Indonesia, Australia, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, the United States, Mexico and Argentina to muster support on issues related to FATF and grey-listing process. Pakistan`s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is also scheduled to seek support from Kuwait, Sweden, South Korea, China, Oman, Qatar, UAE, Russia, Greece Austria, Spain, Luxembourg, Ireland, Brazil and other countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. During recent assessments, Pakistan has been rated low on 10 out of 11 FATF immediate outcomes, and partially or non-compliant on 30 out of 40 FATF recommendations as per its mutual evaluation report. Under the FATF action plan, Pakistan has nothing substantial to show by way of terror-related seizures in the list of over 900 seized properties of various terror organisations. Nor were formal terror financing cases lodged or investigations completed since February 2018. Thus, Pakistan has been largely non-compliant on all parameters stipulated by the FATF.

Pakistan lobbies for support ahead of FATF Plenary action

As the Modi government 2.0 completes 100 days in office on Saturday, the BJP leadership would be connecting with the people to make them aware of the "historic" decisions made in the short period.

The leaders will carry the message of the government on matters ranging from "strong nationalistic" and security-related decisions like defanging of Article 370 and acquisition of the United States made Apache helicopters to people-centric decisions like pension for farmers and shopkeepers.&nbsp;

"From telling people how buying American Apache helicopters made Pakistan and China nervous, nullification of Article 370 to the Parliament`s most productive monsoon session -- all will be listed out as government`s achievements.&nbsp;The merger of banks to stabilise the economy is one of the few important points for the discussions, " said a senior party leader who is involved in finalising the points.

There would be special emphasis on spreading awareness on the triple talaq law which aims to abolish the social evil prevalent in the society.

The party would also highlight the passing of the tough UAPA anti-terror law.

Sources said that BJP leaders, including ministers, would ensure that all decisions taken by the government are brought to public notice.&nbsp;

The leaders would be addressing a slew of press conferences and public meeting as part of the endeavour, sources said.&nbsp;

Several top ministers would be addressing their share if interactive sessions next week.

The fact that Parliament enacted several laws and worked overtime during the recently concluded monsoon session would also be highlighted.&nbsp;

Other issues that are likely to be highlighted include the launch of Mission Fit India, the establishment of Jal Shakti Ministry and the National Medical Commission, and merger of banks.&nbsp;

As the Modi government 2.0 completes 100 days in office on Saturday, the BJP leadership would be connecting with the people to make them aware of the "historic" decisions made in the short period.

As the Modi government 2.0 completes 100 days in office on Saturday, the BJP leadership would be connecting with the people to make them aware of the "historic" decisions made in the short period. The leaders will carry the message of the government on matters ranging from "strong nationalistic" and security-related decisions like defanging of Article 370 and acquisition of the United States made Apache helicopters to people-centric decisions like pension for farmers and shopkeepers. "From telling people how buying American Apache helicopters made Pakistan and China nervous, nullification of Article 370 to the Parliament`s most productive monsoon session -- all will be listed out as government`s achievements. The merger of banks to stabilise the economy is one of the few important points for the discussions, " said a senior party leader who is involved in finalising the points. There would be special emphasis on spreading awareness on the triple talaq law which aims to abolish the social evil prevalent in the society. The party would also highlight the passing of the tough UAPA anti-terror law. Sources said that BJP leaders, including ministers, would ensure that all decisions taken by the government are brought to public notice. The leaders would be addressing a slew of press conferences and public meeting as part of the endeavour, sources said. Several top ministers would be addressing their share if interactive sessions next week. The fact that Parliament enacted several laws and worked overtime during the recently concluded monsoon session would also be highlighted. Other issues that are likely to be highlighted include the launch of Mission Fit India, the establishment of Jal Shakti Ministry and the National Medical Commission, and merger of banks.

From Apache purchase to bank mergers, Modi government to present 100-day report card

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani said on Friday that Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) has improved by 13 points from 918 to 931 at the national level in last five years.&nbsp;

"Since the launch of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, the Central and the state governments with janbhagidari have consistently strived towards ensuring the potential of our daughters is celebrated.&nbsp;Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narender Modi, the country has made a remarkable jump in the national sex ratio of 13 points from 918 to 931 in last five years," she said.&nbsp;

The Minister was speaking at a function after presenting awards to states and districts for improved sex ratio and awareness generation under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign. Haryana, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh received honours for improving sex ratio at birth.

Nine districts were also awarded for better sex ratio at birth which includes East Kameng of Arunachal Pradesh), Mahendragarh and Bhiwani (Haryana), Udham Singh Nagar (Uttrakhand), Namakkal (Tamilnadu), Jalgaon (Maharashtra), Etawah (UP), Raigarh (Chattisgarh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan).

During the event, 10 districts were also awarded for good work in awareness generation and outreach activities under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign.

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign was launched in 2015 and is, now, being implemented in 640 districts.

On the occasion, Irani made special mention of Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh which has registered a sharp improvement in SRB from 807 in the last five years.&nbsp;

She said that this makes it clear that nothing is impossible if the Government and society collectively resolve to achieve a target.

The Minister also mentioned Mahendragarh district of Haryana where the SRB has risen to 916 from below 800 marks in 2001.

She also appreciated the work done by the district of Tiruvallur of Tamil Nadu for recording an impressive increase of 38 points in SRB from 925 to 963 in the last one year.

Acknowledging the contribution of each district in the improvement of sex ratio at birth, Irani said that with the collective efforts of the Prime Minister`s Office and the Ministries of Human Resource Development and Health and Family Welfare the girl child is now protected from birth till the rest of her life.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani said on Friday that Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) has improved by 13 points from 918 to 931 at the national level in last five years.

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani said on Friday that Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) has improved by 13 points from 918 to 931 at the national level in last five years. "Since the launch of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, the Central and the state governments with janbhagidari have consistently strived towards ensuring the potential of our daughters is celebrated. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narender Modi, the country has made a remarkable jump in the national sex ratio of 13 points from 918 to 931 in last five years," she said. The Minister was speaking at a function after presenting awards to states and districts for improved sex ratio and awareness generation under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign. Haryana, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh received honours for improving sex ratio at birth. Nine districts were also awarded for better sex ratio at birth which includes East Kameng of Arunachal Pradesh), Mahendragarh and Bhiwani (Haryana), Udham Singh Nagar (Uttrakhand), Namakkal (Tamilnadu), Jalgaon (Maharashtra), Etawah (UP), Raigarh (Chattisgarh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan). During the event, 10 districts were also awarded for good work in awareness generation and outreach activities under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign was launched in 2015 and is, now, being implemented in 640 districts. On the occasion, Irani made special mention of Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh which has registered a sharp improvement in SRB from 807 in the last five years. She said that this makes it clear that nothing is impossible if the Government and society collectively resolve to achieve a target. The Minister also mentioned Mahendragarh district of Haryana where the SRB has risen to 916 from below 800 marks in 2001. She also appreciated the work done by the district of Tiruvallur of Tamil Nadu for recording an impressive increase of 38 points in SRB from 925 to 963 in the last one year. Acknowledging the contribution of each district in the improvement of sex ratio at birth, Irani said that with the collective efforts of the Prime Minister`s Office and the Ministries of Human Resource Development and Health and Family Welfare the girl child is now protected from birth till the rest of her life.

Sex ratio at birth improved from 918 to 931 in five years: Smriti Irani

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