Chinese soldiers issued a warning to Hong Kong protesters on Sunday who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/petrol-bombs-and-tear-gas-rock-hong-kong-as-thousands-defy-mask-ban-254076">shone lasers at their barracks in the city</a>, in the first direct interaction with mainland military forces in four months of anti-government demonstrations.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in Kowloon district warned a crowd of a few hundred protesters they could be arrested for targeting its troops and barracks walls with laser lights.

One officer shouted through a loudhailer in broken Cantonese - the main language of Hong Kong - "Bear consequences for your actions."

The stand-off with the PLA came after rallies attended by tens of thousands of protesters earlier on Sunday ended in violent clashes in several locations. Police fired tear gas and baton-charged the crowds, while some demonstrators threw bricks and petrol bombs at police as night fell.

Protesters concealed their faces in defiance of colonial-era emergency laws invoked by the authorities on Friday, which banned face masks. Protesters face a maximum of one year in jail for breaking the mask ban.

Police made their first arrests under the new rules, detaining scores of people. Officers tied their wrists with cable and unmasked their faces before placing them on buses. Some protesters lay in foetal positions on the ground, their wrists tied behind their backs, after being subdued with pepper spray and batons.

Hong Kong protests: Protesters brave rain to defy face mask ban

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protests-protesters-brave-rain-to-defy-face-mask-ban-254072/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The anti-mask law just fuels our anger and more will people come on to the street," Lee, a university student wearing a blue mask, said on Sunday, as he marched on Hong Kong island.

"We are not afraid of the new law, we will continue fighting. We will fight for righteousness. I put on the mask to tell the government that I'm not afraid of tyranny."

Chinese military personnel standing on the roof of the PLA's Osborn Barracks in Kowloon Tong district held up a sign in English and Chinese which read: "Warning. You are in breach of the law. You may be prosecuted."

The troops in fatigues also shone spotlights on the crowd and used binoculars and cameras to monitor protesters. The protesters, several thousand of whom passed the barracks, eventually dispersed.

In August, Beijing moved thousands of troops across the border into Hong Kong in an operation state news agency Xinhua described at the time as a routine “rotation”.

But the PLA has remained in barracks since protests started, leaving Hong Kong’s police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub.

The PLA's top brass has warned violence is "absolutely impermissible".

More violence

Authorities had braced for major protests on Sunday, fearing a recurrence of Friday night's violent protests which saw the Asian financial centre virtually shut down the next day.

Only hours after Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam invoked emergency powers last used more than 50 years ago, mask-wearing protesters took to the streets on Friday, setting subway stations on fire, smashing mainland China banks and clashing with police.

The rallies on Sunday on Hong Kong Island and across the harbour in Kowloon had been largely peaceful until police moved to disperse the crowds, saying they were participating in unlawful assemblies, blocking major roads, and ordered protesters to leave immediately.

Hong Kong's four months of protests have plunged the Chinese-ruled city into its worst political crisis in decades and pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power six years ago.

What started as an opposition to a now-withdrawn extradition bill has swelled into a pro-democracy movement against what is seen as Beijing's increasing grip on the city, undermining its "one country, two systems" status promised when Britain handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997.

China dismisses the accusation, saying foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, have fanned anti-China sentiment.

Protesters on Sunday chanted "Hong Kongers, revolt" and "Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong", as riot police monitored them from overhead walkways and footbridges, some taking photographs and filming the marchers.

Protesters handed out face masks to encourage people to defy the ban. As the day wore on protesters started to target subway stations and China banks, just as they did on Friday, which forced the unprecedented closure of the city's metro railway.

A branch of China Construction Bank (Asia) near Prince Edward train station was vandalised on Sunday with "No China" sprayed on its wall. A metro station in the nightlife district of Wan Chai had a sheet draped over it which read: "This way to HELL".

Protesters set a fire at the Mong Kok MTR station, with a placard nearby reading: "If we burn, you burn with us".

The current "precarious situation", which endangered public safety, left no timely solution but the anti-mask law, Matthew Cheung, Hong Kong's chief secretary, wrote on his blog on Sunday. He urged people to oppose violence ahead of grassroots district council elections set for November&nbsp;24.

Four months of protests have pushed the Asian financial hub to the brink of its first recession in a decade. Financial Secretary Paul Chan in a blog on Sunday said despite recent obstacles, the banking system remained sound and the financial market was functioning well.

"Hong Kong will not implement foreign exchange controls. The Hong Kong dollar can be exchanged freely and capital can come in and out freely. This is the solemn guarantee of the Basic Law," said Chan.

Chinese soldiers issued a warning to Hong Kong protesters on Sunday who shone lasers at their barracks in the city, in the first direct interaction with mainland military forces in four months of anti-government demonstrations.

Chinese soldiers issued a warning to Hong Kong protesters on Sunday who shone lasers at their barracks in the city, in the first direct interaction with mainland military forces in four months of anti-government demonstrations. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in Kowloon district warned a crowd of a few hundred protesters they could be arrested for targeting its troops and barracks walls with laser lights. One officer shouted through a loudhailer in broken Cantonese - the main language of Hong Kong - "Bear consequences for your actions." The stand-off with the PLA came after rallies attended by tens of thousands of protesters earlier on Sunday ended in violent clashes in several locations. Police fired tear gas and baton-charged the crowds, while some demonstrators threw bricks and petrol bombs at police as night fell. Protesters concealed their faces in defiance of colonial-era emergency laws invoked by the authorities on Friday, which banned face masks. Protesters face a maximum of one year in jail for breaking the mask ban. Police made their first arrests under the new rules, detaining scores of people. Officers tied their wrists with cable and unmasked their faces before placing them on buses. Some protesters lay in foetal positions on the ground, their wrists tied behind their backs, after being subdued with pepper spray and batons. Hong Kong protests: Protesters brave rain to defy face mask ban "The anti-mask law just fuels our anger and more will people come on to the street," Lee, a university student wearing a blue mask, said on Sunday, as he marched on Hong Kong island. "We are not afraid of the new law, we will continue fighting. We will fight for righteousness. I put on the mask to tell the government that I'm not afraid of tyranny." Chinese military personnel standing on the roof of the PLA's Osborn Barracks in Kowloon Tong district held up a sign in English and Chinese which read: "Warning. You are in breach of the law. You may be prosecuted." The troops in fatigues also shone spotlights on the crowd and used binoculars and cameras to monitor protesters. The protesters, several thousand of whom passed the barracks, eventually dispersed. In August, Beijing moved thousands of troops across the border into Hong Kong in an operation state news agency Xinhua described at the time as a routine “rotation”. But the PLA has remained in barracks since protests started, leaving Hong Kong’s police force to deal with the massive and often violent protests in the Asian financial hub. The PLA's top brass has warned violence is "absolutely impermissible". More violence Authorities had braced for major protests on Sunday, fearing a recurrence of Friday night's violent protests which saw the Asian financial centre virtually shut down the next day. Only hours after Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam invoked emergency powers last used more than 50 years ago, mask-wearing protesters took to the streets on Friday, setting subway stations on fire, smashing mainland China banks and clashing with police. The rallies on Sunday on Hong Kong Island and across the harbour in Kowloon had been largely peaceful until police moved to disperse the crowds, saying they were participating in unlawful assemblies, blocking major roads, and ordered protesters to leave immediately. Hong Kong's four months of protests have plunged the Chinese-ruled city into its worst political crisis in decades and pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power six years ago. What started as an opposition to a now-withdrawn extradition bill has swelled into a pro-democracy movement against what is seen as Beijing's increasing grip on the city, undermining its "one country, two systems" status promised when Britain handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997. China dismisses the accusation, saying foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, have fanned anti-China sentiment. Protesters on Sunday chanted "Hong Kongers, revolt" and "Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong", as riot police monitored them from overhead walkways and footbridges, some taking photographs and filming the marchers. Protesters handed out face masks to encourage people to defy the ban. As the day wore on protesters started to target subway stations and China banks, just as they did on Friday, which forced the unprecedented closure of the city's metro railway. A branch of China Construction Bank (Asia) near Prince Edward train station was vandalised on Sunday with "No China" sprayed on its wall. A metro station in the nightlife district of Wan Chai had a sheet draped over it which read: "This way to HELL". Protesters set a fire at the Mong Kok MTR station, with a placard nearby reading: "If we burn, you burn with us". The current "precarious situation", which endangered public safety, left no timely solution but the anti-mask law, Matthew Cheung, Hong Kong's chief secretary, wrote on his blog on Sunday. He urged people to oppose violence ahead of grassroots district council elections set for November 24. Four months of protests have pushed the Asian financial hub to the brink of its first recession in a decade. Financial Secretary Paul Chan in a blog on Sunday said despite recent obstacles, the banking system remained sound and the financial market was functioning well. "Hong Kong will not implement foreign exchange controls. The Hong Kong dollar can be exchanged freely and capital can come in and out freely. This is the solemn guarantee of the Basic Law," said Chan.

'Bear consequences for your actions': Chinese soldiers issues warning to Hong Kong protesters

The Supreme Court on Monday has asked the Maharashtra government to not cut more trees at Aarey Colony and ordered that status quo should be maintained regarding felling of trees.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the bench that henceforth no trees will be cut in the colony.

The top court also ordered the <a href="wionews.com/india-news/aarey-row-29-protesters-released-from-thane-jail-254162">release of the activists</a> who were arrested for protesting against Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL).

The court also asked Tushar Mehta to include the Ministry of Forest and Environment as a party in the matter.

A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21.

Earlier today, twenty-nine protestors were released from Thane jail after bail was granted to them on Sunday.

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) started cutting the trees on Friday night after the Bombay High Court rejected a bunch of petitions filed by NGOs and activists against the tree felling.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The Supreme Court on Monday has asked the Maharashtra government to not cut more trees at Aarey Colony and ordered that status quo should be maintained regarding felling of trees.

The Supreme Court on Monday has asked the Maharashtra government to not cut more trees at Aarey Colony and ordered that status quo should be maintained regarding felling of trees. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the bench that henceforth no trees will be cut in the colony. The top court also ordered the release of the activists who were arrested for protesting against Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL). The court also asked Tushar Mehta to include the Ministry of Forest and Environment as a party in the matter. A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21. Earlier today, twenty-nine protestors were released from Thane jail after bail was granted to them on Sunday. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) started cutting the trees on Friday night after the Bombay High Court rejected a bunch of petitions filed by NGOs and activists against the tree felling. (With inputs from ANI)

Supreme Court stops tree felling in Mumbai's Aarey forest till next hearing

In yet another blow to the Congress party in the run-up to the Assembly elections in the state, its former MLA from Badli, Naresh Sharma joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday.

Sharma joined BJP in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during his rally in Beri.

Sharma was elected as an MLA in 2005 and 2009.

This comes days after former Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar resigned from all election committees and the party's membership.

On Sunday, two former MLAs from the Congress and one from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) along with many workers joined the BJP in the presence of the Chief Minister.&nbsp;

Voting for the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 and the counting of votes is scheduled on October 24.&nbsp;

In yet another blow to the Congress party in the run-up to the Assembly elections in the state, its former MLA from Badli, Naresh Sharma joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday.

In yet another blow to the Congress party in the run-up to the Assembly elections in the state, its former MLA from Badli, Naresh Sharma joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday. Sharma joined BJP in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during his rally in Beri. Sharma was elected as an MLA in 2005 and 2009. This comes days after former Haryana Congress president Ashok Tanwar resigned from all election committees and the party's membership. On Sunday, two former MLAs from the Congress and one from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) along with many workers joined the BJP in the presence of the Chief Minister. Voting for the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 and the counting of votes is scheduled on October 24.

Haryana: Former Congress MLA Naresh Sharma joins Bharatiya Janata Party

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corporate-tax-rate-cuts-will-help-india-become-5-trillion-economy-yogi-adityanath-251215">Yogi Adityanath</a> on Monday said that the government's schemes have strengthened the objective of women's empowerment which is one of the key messages of the ongoing Sharadiya Navaratri.

"Navaratri is a festival which sends across the message of women's empowerment. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, women's empowerment is a prime objective. The plans like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan have bolstered women and girl children's dignity," Adityanath said while addressing a press conference.

The Chief Minister said that 10 crore families got toilets in five years and 8 crore families received gas connections. He further said that the sex ratio has become more balanced in the past five years.

Adityanath pointed out that the state government has also envisioned plans and schemes for women's empowerment like the Kanya Sumangala Yojana and increasing the financial aid for community marriage programmes for poor women.

"On the occasion of Navaratri, we take the pledge to empower women. Under the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, an amount of Rs 15,000 will be deposited at the time of a girl child's birth.

Under the community marriage scheme, our government has increased the support amount to poor girls for marriage from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000," he said.

Adityanath further said that the state government has taken several measures to bolster the education of children which is a key step towards creating balance in the society.

"1 crore 80 lakh students have been enrolled in schools in the state under the 'School Chalo Abhiyan'. With the support of the public, 91,000 schools out of around one and a half lakh have been refurbished in UP," he said.

On being asked about the Ram Jamabhoomi case, he said that he welcomed the daily proceedings in the Supreme Court on the matter and that he will welcome the decision of the court when it comes in the public domain.

"We will welcome the honourable Supreme Court's decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi issue. Everybody should abide by the decision of the honourable court. I welcome the daily proceedings on the issue by the Supreme Court," he said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that the government's schemes have strengthened the objective of women's empowerment which is one of the key messages of the ongoing Sharadiya Navaratri.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that the government's schemes have strengthened the objective of women's empowerment which is one of the key messages of the ongoing Sharadiya Navaratri. "Navaratri is a festival which sends across the message of women's empowerment. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, women's empowerment is a prime objective. The plans like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan have bolstered women and girl children's dignity," Adityanath said while addressing a press conference. The Chief Minister said that 10 crore families got toilets in five years and 8 crore families received gas connections. He further said that the sex ratio has become more balanced in the past five years. Adityanath pointed out that the state government has also envisioned plans and schemes for women's empowerment like the Kanya Sumangala Yojana and increasing the financial aid for community marriage programmes for poor women. "On the occasion of Navaratri, we take the pledge to empower women. Under the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, an amount of Rs 15,000 will be deposited at the time of a girl child's birth. Under the community marriage scheme, our government has increased the support amount to poor girls for marriage from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000," he said. Adityanath further said that the state government has taken several measures to bolster the education of children which is a key step towards creating balance in the society. "1 crore 80 lakh students have been enrolled in schools in the state under the 'School Chalo Abhiyan'. With the support of the public, 91,000 schools out of around one and a half lakh have been refurbished in UP," he said. On being asked about the Ram Jamabhoomi case, he said that he welcomed the daily proceedings in the Supreme Court on the matter and that he will welcome the decision of the court when it comes in the public domain. "We will welcome the honourable Supreme Court's decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi issue. Everybody should abide by the decision of the honourable court. I welcome the daily proceedings on the issue by the Supreme Court," he said.

Government schemes strengthens objective of women's empowerment: Yogi Adityanath

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-green-cover-has-increased-by-15000-sq-km-in-last-four-years-union-minister-prakash-javadekar-254219">Union Minister Prakash Javadekar</a> on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020.

While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution.

"Since 2006, air quality in Delhi has been deteriorating rapidly. But till 2014, neither it was talked about nor much work was done to improve it. In 2015, Prime Minister started Air Quality Index. 113 AQI monitoring stations are there at present in Delhi-NCR and 29 more will be installed soon," Javadekar said.

"A revolutionary decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership was taken in 2015 to start BS4 category. Because of this, 80 per cent of PM (particulate matter) of trucks was reduced. BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming in Delhi in April 2020. BS6 petrol and diesel is already available in Delhi-NCR. It will lead to a great reduction in air pollution from vehicles... For this, the government has spent Rs 60,000 crore," he added.

Ahead of Diwali, Javadekar advised people to refrain from bursting firecrackers.

"I am confident that children themselves will ask parents to not buy firecrackers, but if someone wants to then buy green firecrackers. It's a historic initiative of Dr Harsh Vardhan," he said.

Javadekar stated that ever since the implementation of the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), more PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates are being issued.

The maintenance of vehicles has improved, he said.

Moreover, Javadekar highlighted that good air days have improved and bad air days have been reduced.

"In 2016, good days were just 108. Last year, they were 159. Bad air days were 246 which have been reduced to 206. Till September 30, out of 270 days, 165 are good air days and only 108 were bad air days," he said.

On the issue of stubble burning, Javadekar stated that the government has granted Rs 1,150 crore to Punjab and Haryana with which over 20,000 machines were bought.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has formed 46 teams to keep a check on pollution-related actives in Delhi-NCR, the minister said.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution. "Since 2006, air quality in Delhi has been deteriorating rapidly. But till 2014, neither it was talked about nor much work was done to improve it. In 2015, Prime Minister started Air Quality Index. 113 AQI monitoring stations are there at present in Delhi-NCR and 29 more will be installed soon," Javadekar said. "A revolutionary decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership was taken in 2015 to start BS4 category. Because of this, 80 per cent of PM (particulate matter) of trucks was reduced. BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming in Delhi in April 2020. BS6 petrol and diesel is already available in Delhi-NCR. It will lead to a great reduction in air pollution from vehicles... For this, the government has spent Rs 60,000 crore," he added. Ahead of Diwali, Javadekar advised people to refrain from bursting firecrackers. "I am confident that children themselves will ask parents to not buy firecrackers, but if someone wants to then buy green firecrackers. It's a historic initiative of Dr Harsh Vardhan," he said. Javadekar stated that ever since the implementation of the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), more PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates are being issued. The maintenance of vehicles has improved, he said. Moreover, Javadekar highlighted that good air days have improved and bad air days have been reduced. "In 2016, good days were just 108. Last year, they were 159. Bad air days were 246 which have been reduced to 206. Till September 30, out of 270 days, 165 are good air days and only 108 were bad air days," he said. On the issue of stubble burning, Javadekar stated that the government has granted Rs 1,150 crore to Punjab and Haryana with which over 20,000 machines were bought. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has formed 46 teams to keep a check on pollution-related actives in Delhi-NCR, the minister said.

BS6-compliant vehicles in Delhi from April 2020, says Union minister Prakash Javadekar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/easter-bombing-caused-a-huge-loss-to-the-tourism-industry-sri-lankan-minister-243132">Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals</a> in September were down 27.2% from a year earlier as foreign visitors shunned the Indian Ocean island after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-orders-fresh-probe-into-easter-suicide-bombings-251180">attacks on Easter Sunday in April,</a> tourism bureau data showed on Monday.

Arrivals fell to 108,575 from 149,087 a year earlier and marked a sixth consecutive monthly fall.

Since the Easter Sunday attacks, the number of foreign visitors has fallen to the lowest level since the end of the country's civil war a decade ago.

Arrivals in the five months from May to September were down 44.4% to 468,737 from 843,569 a year earlier.

Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals in September were down 27.2% from a year earlier as foreign visitors shunned the Indian Ocean island after attacks on Easter Sunday in April, tourism bureau data showed on Monday.

Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals in September were down 27.2% from a year earlier as foreign visitors shunned the Indian Ocean island after attacks on Easter Sunday in April, tourism bureau data showed on Monday. Arrivals fell to 108,575 from 149,087 a year earlier and marked a sixth consecutive monthly fall. Since the Easter Sunday attacks, the number of foreign visitors has fallen to the lowest level since the end of the country's civil war a decade ago. Arrivals in the five months from May to September were down 44.4% to 468,737 from 843,569 a year earlier.

Sri Lanka tourist arrivals in September fall for 6th month

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a warning of heavy rainfall in some districts of the state in the wake of two cyclonic circulations over interior Odisha.

"Two cyclonic circulations over interior Odisha could cause heavy rainfall at several places in the state," Shashikant, Scientist, IMD Bhubaneswar, said.

"Under its influence districts like Kandhamal, Boudh, Nayagarh, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar will experience heavy rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning in the next 24 hours," Shashikant added.

As per the weather report, the rainfall could continue for three days, after which its intensity may decrease.No warning has been issued for fishermen and local people have been advised to be at safe locations.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a warning of heavy rainfall in some districts of the state in the wake of two cyclonic circulations over interior Odisha.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a warning of heavy rainfall in some districts of the state in the wake of two cyclonic circulations over interior Odisha. "Two cyclonic circulations over interior Odisha could cause heavy rainfall at several places in the state," Shashikant, Scientist, IMD Bhubaneswar, said. "Under its influence districts like Kandhamal, Boudh, Nayagarh, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar will experience heavy rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning in the next 24 hours," Shashikant added. As per the weather report, the rainfall could continue for three days, after which its intensity may decrease.No warning has been issued for fishermen and local people have been advised to be at safe locations.

Odisha: India Meteorological Department issues heavy rainfall warning for some districts

Three mortar shells were found near Sangawali village in Samba on Monday.

Upon observing the suspicious object, people immediately alerted police.&nbsp;

The bomb disposal squad and police team then recovered three mortar shells.

However, sources said the shells were old and they got displaced due to rains.&nbsp;

Police searched the entire area to ensure that no other shells were present there.

Three mortar shells were found near Sangawali village in Samba on Monday. Upon observing the suspicious object, people immediately alerted police. The bomb disposal squad and police team then recovered three mortar shells.

Three mortar shells were found near Sangawali village in Samba on Monday. Upon observing the suspicious object, people immediately alerted police. The bomb disposal squad and police team then recovered three mortar shells. However, sources said the shells were old and they got displaced due to rains. Police searched the entire area to ensure that no other shells were present there.

Jammu Kashmir: Three mortar shells found near Sangawali village in Samba

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years.

While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai.

"Supreme Court has given a decision on it, so I will not comment on the matter," Javadekar said.

However, Javadekar stated that the policy and the practice is, "if you cut one tree, you plant and ensure the growth of five trees."

Asked whether afforestation has worked, Javadekar replied, "In the last four years, the green cover of the country has increased by 15,000 square kilometres. There are only a few countries in the world whose green cover has increased, that includes India."

A special bench of the Supreme Court today asked the Maharashtra government to ensure that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-maharashtra-government-to-not-cut-more-trees-in-aarey-forest-254181">no trees are further axed</a> at Mumbai's Aarey Colony.

A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21.

The court passed the directive after hearing a suo moto PIL based on a letter written by a group of law students to the court against the felling of trees.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai. "Supreme Court has given a decision on it, so I will not comment on the matter," Javadekar said. However, Javadekar stated that the policy and the practice is, "if you cut one tree, you plant and ensure the growth of five trees." Asked whether afforestation has worked, Javadekar replied, "In the last four years, the green cover of the country has increased by 15,000 square kilometres. There are only a few countries in the world whose green cover has increased, that includes India." A special bench of the Supreme Court today asked the Maharashtra government to ensure that no trees are further axed at Mumbai's Aarey Colony. A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21. The court passed the directive after hearing a suo moto PIL based on a letter written by a group of law students to the court against the felling of trees.

India's green cover has increased by 15,000 sq km in last four years: Union minister Prakash Javadekar

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-to-visit-france-to-receive-rafale-jets-on-october-8-253547">leaving for France on a three-day visit</a>, said he is looking forward to deepen ties with the country.

"Leaving New Delhi for Paris on a three-day visit to France. Shall attend the Annual Defence Dialogue and the Induction Ceremony of Rafale. India-France bilateral relations have made tremendous progress in recent years. Looking forward to further and deepen these ties," he stated in a tweet.

During his visit, Rajnath Singh&nbsp;will receive the first of 36 Rafale fighter jets manufactured for India. On October 8, the Defence Minister is scheduled to meet the French President Emmanuel Macron.

After the meeting, Singh will proceed to Bordeaux to participate in the Rafale fighter jet handing-over ceremony at Merignac along with the French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly.

Singh will also perform the 'Shastrapuja' on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami and fly a sortie in the Rafale fighter jet.

"As per plans, a French pilot will fly in the front cockpit while Singh will sit in the rear cockpit. The first Indian Rafale fighter jet with tail no RB-01 will be used for the sortie," sources in IAF said.

The tail number has the initials of newly-appointed IAF chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria in recognition of his role in the around Rs 60,000 crore deal signed in 2016 for 36 planes.

The Defence Minister will also hold the annual defence dialogue with the French Minister of Armed Forces during his visit.

On October 9, Singh will address the CEOs of the French defence industry during which he is likely to urge them to participate in 'Make in India' and the Defence Expo to be held in Lucknow in February next year.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, while leaving for France on a three-day visit, said he is looking forward to deepen ties with the country. "Leaving New Delhi for Paris on a three-day visit to France.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, while leaving for France on a three-day visit, said he is looking forward to deepen ties with the country. "Leaving New Delhi for Paris on a three-day visit to France. Shall attend the Annual Defence Dialogue and the Induction Ceremony of Rafale. India-France bilateral relations have made tremendous progress in recent years. Looking forward to further and deepen these ties," he stated in a tweet. During his visit, Rajnath Singh will receive the first of 36 Rafale fighter jets manufactured for India. On October 8, the Defence Minister is scheduled to meet the French President Emmanuel Macron. After the meeting, Singh will proceed to Bordeaux to participate in the Rafale fighter jet handing-over ceremony at Merignac along with the French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly. Singh will also perform the 'Shastrapuja' on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami and fly a sortie in the Rafale fighter jet. "As per plans, a French pilot will fly in the front cockpit while Singh will sit in the rear cockpit. The first Indian Rafale fighter jet with tail no RB-01 will be used for the sortie," sources in IAF said. The tail number has the initials of newly-appointed IAF chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria in recognition of his role in the around Rs 60,000 crore deal signed in 2016 for 36 planes. The Defence Minister will also hold the annual defence dialogue with the French Minister of Armed Forces during his visit. On October 9, Singh will address the CEOs of the French defence industry during which he is likely to urge them to participate in 'Make in India' and the Defence Expo to be held in Lucknow in February next year.

'Looking forward to deepen ties with France,' says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met former Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief BS Dhanoa.

Tweeting some pictures from his meeting with the former IAF chief, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Dhanoa for serving the country with utmost valour.

"Met India`s former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa (retired). He has served our nation with utmost valour, diligence and professionalism. He has made a rich contribution to our Air Force. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours," the Prime Minister tweeted.

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Met India’s former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa (retired). He has served our nation with utmost valour, diligence and professionalism. He has made a rich contribution to our Air Force. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours. <a href="https://t.co/oAU8vM0tzM">pic.twitter.com/oAU8vM0tzM</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1180125061761486849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dhanoa retired on September 30 after 41 years of glorious service to the nation.
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"He was commissioned in June 1978 as a fighter pilot and has led the IAF from front always," IAF had said in a tweet.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa was instrumental in planning and executing a successful airstrike against the terrorist camp near Balakot, which is located across POK, in Pakistan, in February this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met former Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief BS Dhanoa. Tweeting some pictures from his meeting with the former IAF chief, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Dhanoa for serving the country with utmost valour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met former Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief BS Dhanoa. Tweeting some pictures from his meeting with the former IAF chief, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Dhanoa for serving the country with utmost valour. "Met India`s former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa (retired). He has served our nation with utmost valour, diligence and professionalism. He has made a rich contribution to our Air Force. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours," the Prime Minister tweeted. Met India’s former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa (retired). He has served our nation with utmost valour, diligence and professionalism. He has made a rich contribution to our Air Force. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours. pic.twitter.com/oAU8vM0tzM — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 4, 2019 × Dhanoa retired on September 30 after 41 years of glorious service to the nation. "He was commissioned in June 1978 as a fighter pilot and has led the IAF from front always," IAF had said in a tweet. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa was instrumental in planning and executing a successful airstrike against the terrorist camp near Balakot, which is located across POK, in Pakistan, in February this year.

PM Modi meets former IAF Chief Dhanoa, says he served the nation with utmost valour

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday launched the YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which provides Rs 10,000 allowance to self-employed drivers of autos, taxis and maxi cabs.

Addressing a gathering at the indoor stadium here on Friday, Reddy&nbsp;said that the amount of Rs 10,000 is for the recurring expenses like insurance and maintenance of the vehicle to procure fitness certificate and said that those who could not make it on time can apply till month-end and their applications would be considered.

The allowance of Rs 10,000 would be given every year and the amount will be credited into the bank accounts directly while the processing will be done in a transparent manner.

The latest scheme is the fulfilment of an election promise made by Reddy during his 3,648 km padayatra.

A clipping of his earlier speech and promise made in May 2018 was shown to the gathering which drew a huge round of applause. The allowance was given to 1,73,531 drivers with the click of a button and the amount was directly credited into their respective bank accounts.

"I have seen with my own eyes the difficulties of auto drivers. With a daily earning of Rs 200 to Rs 500, you people have told me that it was becoming difficult to run the family and pay the insurance and other expenses required for getting a fitness certificate. Thus we have evolved YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which will provide Rs 50,000 to the self-employed drivers in five years. Such a scheme is available only in our state and nowhere in the country," he said.

Reddy had earlier posed with auto drivers and worn the khaki shirt, the uniform of auto drivers, which he retained throughout the function. The auto drivers thanked him for keeping up his word and for showing the recognition.

Those who attended the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Alla Nani, Ministers Perni Nani T Vanita, Sriranganadha Raju and other officials.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday launched the YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which provides Rs 10,000 allowance to self-employed drivers of autos, taxis and maxi cabs.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday launched the YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which provides Rs 10,000 allowance to self-employed drivers of autos, taxis and maxi cabs. Addressing a gathering at the indoor stadium here on Friday, Reddy said that the amount of Rs 10,000 is for the recurring expenses like insurance and maintenance of the vehicle to procure fitness certificate and said that those who could not make it on time can apply till month-end and their applications would be considered. The allowance of Rs 10,000 would be given every year and the amount will be credited into the bank accounts directly while the processing will be done in a transparent manner. The latest scheme is the fulfilment of an election promise made by Reddy during his 3,648 km padayatra. A clipping of his earlier speech and promise made in May 2018 was shown to the gathering which drew a huge round of applause. The allowance was given to 1,73,531 drivers with the click of a button and the amount was directly credited into their respective bank accounts. "I have seen with my own eyes the difficulties of auto drivers. With a daily earning of Rs 200 to Rs 500, you people have told me that it was becoming difficult to run the family and pay the insurance and other expenses required for getting a fitness certificate. Thus we have evolved YSR Vahana Mitra scheme which will provide Rs 50,000 to the self-employed drivers in five years. Such a scheme is available only in our state and nowhere in the country," he said. Reddy had earlier posed with auto drivers and worn the khaki shirt, the uniform of auto drivers, which he retained throughout the function. The auto drivers thanked him for keeping up his word and for showing the recognition. Those who attended the meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Alla Nani, Ministers Perni Nani T Vanita, Sriranganadha Raju and other officials.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy launches YSR Vahana Mitra scheme

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