Fire at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi has been "put off completely," and no casualties have been reported.

"As per Delhi Fire Services and AIIMS Fire Division, the fire at Teaching Block of AIIMS, New Delhi has been put off completely. There has been no loss or damage to life," read a statement from the hospital.

"Dr Harsh Vardhan, Hon'ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and President, AIIMS, New Delhi personally monitored the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire and also regarding patient care," the statement added.

Delhi Fire Service Director, Vipin Kental said,&nbsp;''Fire is completely under control. Cooling operation is underway. They will continue for some more time, the staff will be here to monitor that. No casualty has been reported.''

The patients, who were temporarily transferred from AB Wing, are expected to be shifted back by today.

"The Minister also discussed the need to conduct a special fire audit. AIIMS, New Delhi regularly does this exercise, however, a more comprehensive special audit will be conducted," the statement read.

The fire broke out in the PC Block of AIIMS on Saturday. A total of 34 fire tenders were pressed into service.

The fire broke out late afternoon in the hospital and caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block.

Fire at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi has been "put off completely," and no casualties have been reported. "As per Delhi Fire Services and AIIMS Fire Division, the fire at Teaching Block of AIIMS, New Delhi has been put off completely.

Fire at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi has been "put off completely," and no casualties have been reported. "As per Delhi Fire Services and AIIMS Fire Division, the fire at Teaching Block of AIIMS, New Delhi has been put off completely. There has been no loss or damage to life," read a statement from the hospital. "Dr Harsh Vardhan, Hon'ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and President, AIIMS, New Delhi personally monitored the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire and also regarding patient care," the statement added. Delhi Fire Service Director, Vipin Kental said, ''Fire is completely under control. Cooling operation is underway. They will continue for some more time, the staff will be here to monitor that. No casualty has been reported.'' The patients, who were temporarily transferred from AB Wing, are expected to be shifted back by today. "The Minister also discussed the need to conduct a special fire audit. AIIMS, New Delhi regularly does this exercise, however, a more comprehensive special audit will be conducted," the statement read. The fire broke out in the PC Block of AIIMS on Saturday. A total of 34 fire tenders were pressed into service. The fire broke out late afternoon in the hospital and caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block.

Delhi: Fire at AIIMS 'put off completely,' no casualties reported

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/changes-in-jk-will-enable-people-to-enjoy-similar-rights-as-others-in-india-president-kovind-243006">President Ram Nath Kovind</a>&nbsp;on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai.

The renovated VVIP Guest House 'Jal Kiran' will have four suites including the one for the president and the prime minister. The VVIP suite comprises a meeting hall, a drawing room and a sea-facing balcony.

President Kovind, Savita Kovind, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Vinod Tawde marked their presence during the event.

The president also unveiled a plaque in front of the refurbished and restored British-era twin cannons at Raj Bhavan.

Dating to the pre-World War I era, the cannons - 4.7 metres in length and 1.15 metre in diameter - were found under mud, 25 metres apart from each other, in the foothills of the Raj Bhavan promontory last year. On November 3, the canons were evacuated following a 12-hour operation.

The twins, each weighing 22 tonnes, were then lifted on to the Helipad Lawn and placed there until their restoration in the front of the Jal Vihar, the monumental banquet hall.

President Kovind will inaugurate the underground Bunker Museum at Raj Bhavan on Sunday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai. The renovated VVIP Guest House 'Jal Kiran' will have four suites including the one for the president and the prime minister. The VVIP suite comprises a meeting hall, a drawing room and a sea-facing balcony. President Kovind, Savita Kovind, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Vinod Tawde marked their presence during the event. The president also unveiled a plaque in front of the refurbished and restored British-era twin cannons at Raj Bhavan. Dating to the pre-World War I era, the cannons - 4.7 metres in length and 1.15 metre in diameter - were found under mud, 25 metres apart from each other, in the foothills of the Raj Bhavan promontory last year. On November 3, the canons were evacuated following a 12-hour operation. The twins, each weighing 22 tonnes, were then lifted on to the Helipad Lawn and placed there until their restoration in the front of the Jal Vihar, the monumental banquet hall. President Kovind will inaugurate the underground Bunker Museum at Raj Bhavan on Sunday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurates presidential guest house in Mumbai

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-moon-mission-chandrayaan-2-successfully-launched-as-india-takes-a-giant-leap-237666">Chandrayaan-2</a>, the second generation moon mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will land on the lunar south polar region on September 7, ISRO said on Sunday.

''Hello! This is Chandrayaan 2 with a special update. I wanted to let everyone back home know that it has been an amazing journey for me so far and I am on course to land on the lunar south polar region on 7th September. To know where I am and what I'm doing, stay tuned!'' ISRO tweeted.

Chandrayaan-2 successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-successfully-enters-lunar-transfer-trajectory-242851">out of the earth's orbit on August 14</a>.

It is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20.

Once it's in lunar orbit 100 kilometres above the surface, the spacecraft will send a lander on a controlled descent to the surface.

The lander will then release a six-wheeled solar-powered rover that will cover about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-shares-first-set-of-images-of-earth-as-viewed-by-chandrayaan-2-240576">200 metres of lunar territory</a>.

Watch -&nbsp;Chandrayaan-2 lifts off: India's most ambitious space mission&nbsp;

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The aim of the fourteen-day mission is to examine the surface, gathering data on minerals and even water in the form of ice.

It will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface. The rover will remain on the moon for 14 days.

Chandrayaan-2 lifted off from the Satish Dhawan centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on July 22.

Chandrayaan-2, the second generation moon mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will land on the lunar south polar region on September 7, ISRO said on Sunday.

Chandrayaan-2, the second generation moon mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will land on the lunar south polar region on September 7, ISRO said on Sunday. ''Hello! This is Chandrayaan 2 with a special update. I wanted to let everyone back home know that it has been an amazing journey for me so far and I am on course to land on the lunar south polar region on 7th September. To know where I am and what I'm doing, stay tuned!'' ISRO tweeted. Chandrayaan-2 successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit on August 14. It is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20. Once it's in lunar orbit 100 kilometres above the surface, the spacecraft will send a lander on a controlled descent to the surface. The lander will then release a six-wheeled solar-powered rover that will cover about 200 metres of lunar territory. Watch - Chandrayaan-2 lifts off: India's most ambitious space mission The aim of the fourteen-day mission is to examine the surface, gathering data on minerals and even water in the form of ice. It will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface. The rover will remain on the moon for 14 days. Chandrayaan-2 lifted off from the Satish Dhawan centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on July 22.

Chandrayaan-2 to land on lunar south polar region on September 7: ISRO

Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in west Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Bihar and Chhattisgarh, the IMD said in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning may also occur at isolated places over Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha.

Strong winds with speeds reaching 45-55 kmph are very likely to prevail over west-central and southwest Arabian Sea, the weather office said.

It advised fishermen not to venture into the sea in these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in west Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in west Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. Heavy rainfall is also very likely at isolated places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Bihar and Chhattisgarh, the IMD said in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning may also occur at isolated places over Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha. Strong winds with speeds reaching 45-55 kmph are very likely to prevail over west-central and southwest Arabian Sea, the weather office said. It advised fishermen not to venture into the sea in these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rainfall likely at isolated places in west UP, Punjab and Haryana: India Meteorological Department

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a t<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/spiritualism-is-the-strength-of-our-bilateral-relations-pm-narendra-modi-in-bhutan-243758">wo-day official visit to Bhutan</a>, met Dr Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of Bhutan's National Assembly, on Sunday.

"PM @narendramodi met with Dr Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of the National Assembly of Bhutan. Strong bilateral relationship enjoy support across the entire political spectrum in Bhutan," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met with Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of the National Assembly of Bhutan. Strong bilateral relationship enjoy support across the entire political spectrum in Bhutan. <a href="https://t.co/1E9oBlnaha">pic.twitter.com/1E9oBlnaha</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1162964386446753792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Addressing students and parliamentarians at the Royal University of Bhutan earlier today, Modi stressed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bhutan-agree-to-explore-new-areas-of-bilateral-cooperation-243739">historical, cultural and spiritual traditions</a> have created unique and deep bonds between the two countries.

The Prime Minister reiterated that India is seeking to cooperate with Bhutan in sectors beyond the traditional ones like hydropower.

Following the address, Modi visited the National Memorial Chorten, where he offered 'khaddar' and lit butter lamps. The monument honours the third King of Bhutan or the 'Druk Gyalpo', Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi's address to students of Bhutan Royal University on 2nd day

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"Felt humbled after paying my respects at the National Memorial Chorten, which honours the late Third Druk Gyalpo, who was a stalwart committed to peace, harmony and sustainable development," the Prime Minister tweeted after his visit.

Modi arrived in Bhutan on Saturday for an official visit aimed at further enhancing India's relations with its Himalayan neighbour.

The main highlights of the visit were the inauguration of the 720 megawatts (MW) Mangdechhu hydroelectric power project, along with the remote launching of ISRO's Ground Earth Station.

Nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and one power purchase agreement were exchanged between India and Bhutan in the presence of Modi and his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering.

Modi will leave for New Delhi from Paro on Sunday afternoon after wrapping up his bilateral engagements.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a two-day official visit to Bhutan, met Dr Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of Bhutan's National Assembly, on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a two-day official visit to Bhutan, met Dr Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of Bhutan's National Assembly, on Sunday. "PM @narendramodi met with Dr Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of the National Assembly of Bhutan. Strong bilateral relationship enjoy support across the entire political spectrum in Bhutan," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. PM @narendramodi met with Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Leader of the Opposition of the National Assembly of Bhutan. Strong bilateral relationship enjoy support across the entire political spectrum in Bhutan. pic.twitter.com/1E9oBlnaha — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) August 18, 2019 × Addressing students and parliamentarians at the Royal University of Bhutan earlier today, Modi stressed that historical, cultural and spiritual traditions have created unique and deep bonds between the two countries. The Prime Minister reiterated that India is seeking to cooperate with Bhutan in sectors beyond the traditional ones like hydropower. Following the address, Modi visited the National Memorial Chorten, where he offered 'khaddar' and lit butter lamps. The monument honours the third King of Bhutan or the 'Druk Gyalpo', Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Watch: PM Modi's address to students of Bhutan Royal University on 2nd day "Felt humbled after paying my respects at the National Memorial Chorten, which honours the late Third Druk Gyalpo, who was a stalwart committed to peace, harmony and sustainable development," the Prime Minister tweeted after his visit. Modi arrived in Bhutan on Saturday for an official visit aimed at further enhancing India's relations with its Himalayan neighbour. The main highlights of the visit were the inauguration of the 720 megawatts (MW) Mangdechhu hydroelectric power project, along with the remote launching of ISRO's Ground Earth Station. Nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and one power purchase agreement were exchanged between India and Bhutan in the presence of Modi and his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering. Modi will leave for New Delhi from Paro on Sunday afternoon after wrapping up his bilateral engagements.

PM Modi meets Opposition leader Pema Gyamtsho of Bhutan's National Assembly

Electricity production in the country's biggest underground hydroelectric project on Sutlej's tributary Bhaba Khad river was suspended on Sunday due to rise in silt in the river.

Along with the 1500 MW project, operations in the 412 MW Rampur Project in Shimla district were also shut down after silt level increased in the river owing to heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

The amount of silt in Sutlej has crossed 8000 parts per million (ppm) in the Nathpa Jhakri dam in Kinnaur district.

"Till the time the silt content in the Sutlej river at Nathpa Jhakri dam doesn`t go below 5000 ppm, electricity production will remain suspended," Sanjeev Sood, Project Head, Nathpa Jhakri hydroelectric power plant said.

"The silt content in the Sutlej river system which constitutes of its tributaries has gone up by a huge margin. The situation is especially grave in the Bhaba Khad river. The machines for electricity production will remain shut from 9.30 am on Sunday. At the moment, the tunnel gates in the dam are being closed," he added.&nbsp;

Electricity production in the country's biggest underground hydroelectric project on Sutlej's tributary Bhaba Khad river was suspended on Sunday due to rise in silt in the river.

Electricity production in the country's biggest underground hydroelectric project on Sutlej's tributary Bhaba Khad river was suspended on Sunday due to rise in silt in the river. Along with the 1500 MW project, operations in the 412 MW Rampur Project in Shimla district were also shut down after silt level increased in the river owing to heavy rainfall. The amount of silt in Sutlej has crossed 8000 parts per million (ppm) in the Nathpa Jhakri dam in Kinnaur district. "Till the time the silt content in the Sutlej river at Nathpa Jhakri dam doesn`t go below 5000 ppm, electricity production will remain suspended," Sanjeev Sood, Project Head, Nathpa Jhakri hydroelectric power plant said. "The silt content in the Sutlej river system which constitutes of its tributaries has gone up by a huge margin. The situation is especially grave in the Bhaba Khad river. The machines for electricity production will remain shut from 9.30 am on Sunday. At the moment, the tunnel gates in the dam are being closed," he added.

Himachal Pradesh: Hydroelectric projects shut down due to rise in silt levels in Sutlej

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ties-with-bhutan-form-important-pillar-of-indias-neighbourhood-first-policy-pm-modi-ahead-of-2-day-visit-243515">arrived in&nbsp;Bhutan on&nbsp;a two-day state visit</a>.

Modi was received by his Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering and others on his arrival at the Paro International Airport.

A child presented a bouquet to the Prime Minister as he stepped off the plane in Paro- a valley town in Bhutan, west of the capital, Thimphu.&nbsp;

Modi received a guard of honour at the airport.&nbsp;This is his second&nbsp;visit to Bhutan after he became prime minister.

Earlier PM Modi tweeted saying, ''In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM the King, HM the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan."

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In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with H.M. the King, H.M. the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMBhutan</a> on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1162340576760483840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India and Bhutan are expected to sign 10 Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) during the official engagement.

PM Modi in a pre-departure statement said that ''India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries.''

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On 17th and 18th August, I will be in Bhutan for a bilateral visit that reflects the high importance attached to strong relations with our trusted friend and neighbour. I would be taking part in a wide range of programmes during this visit. <a href="https://t.co/X4LJXMscAc">https://t.co/X4LJXMscAc</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1162340574852026369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi added that his visit to Bhutan at the beginning of the current term reflects the high importance that the Government attaches to India's relations with the Himalayan nation.

On the second day of his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten.

He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery - hosted in honour of the visiting leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Bhutan on a two-day state visit. Modi was received by his Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering and others on his arrival at the Paro International Airport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Bhutan on a two-day state visit. Modi was received by his Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering and others on his arrival at the Paro International Airport. A child presented a bouquet to the Prime Minister as he stepped off the plane in Paro- a valley town in Bhutan, west of the capital, Thimphu. Modi received a guard of honour at the airport. This is his second visit to Bhutan after he became prime minister. Earlier PM Modi tweeted saying, ''In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM the King, HM the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan." In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with H.M. the King, H.M. the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and @PMBhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2019 × India and Bhutan are expected to sign 10 Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) during the official engagement. PM Modi in a pre-departure statement said that ''India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries.'' On 17th and 18th August, I will be in Bhutan for a bilateral visit that reflects the high importance attached to strong relations with our trusted friend and neighbour. I would be taking part in a wide range of programmes during this visit. https://t.co/X4LJXMscAc — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2019 × PM Modi added that his visit to Bhutan at the beginning of the current term reflects the high importance that the Government attaches to India's relations with the Himalayan nation. On the second day of his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten. He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery - hosted in honour of the visiting leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Bhutan on two-day visit

A Group of Ministers (GOM) meeting is underway at the official residence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar are expected to attend the meeting.

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Delhi: A Group of Ministers (GOM) meeting to be held at Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's (File pic) residence, today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar to attend the meeting. <a href="https://t.co/uXn1G57RtZ">pic.twitter.com/uXn1G57RtZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162561092041740289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had said that India follows 'no first use' policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances".

"On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," Rajnath Singh told ANI after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the site where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998.&nbsp;

A Group of Ministers (GOM) meeting is underway at the official residence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar are expected to attend the meeting.

A Group of Ministers (GOM) meeting is underway at the official residence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar are expected to attend the meeting. Delhi: A Group of Ministers (GOM) meeting to be held at Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's (File pic) residence, today. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar to attend the meeting. pic.twitter.com/uXn1G57RtZ — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × Earlier on Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had said that India follows 'no first use' policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances". "On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," Rajnath Singh told ANI after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the site where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998.

Group of Ministers meeting underway at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's residence

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who is on his first foreign trip after assuming power, held discussions with members of the business community in Washington DC on Saturday to explore investment opportunities for US companies in Andhra Pradesh.

He also discussed opportunities to strengthen connectivity between the US and Andhra with members of the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Atlantic Council's South Asia Center at a roundtable meeting.

Speaking at the meeting, Jagan welcomed the USIBC to work with his government to identify '5 big ideas' to catalyze the US-Andhra Pradesh Economic Partnership.

"Andhra Pradesh is poised to catalyze investments, capital and partnerships owing to robust infrastructure for connectivity, enabling policies, integration with global value chains, shifting demographic dividend and a ready workforce," he said.

He also said that the state government and the USIBC can prepare a roadmap to achieve investment and trade targets especially in the areas of agriculture and food security, healthcare, education, infrastructure and manufacturing.

The Chief Minister also welcomed US companies to expand their CSR activities in India.

Jagan presented his comprehensive governance and development model, built on nine assurances called 'Navaratnalu' namely support to farmers (Rythu Bharosa), irrigation development (Jala Yagnam), incentives to mothers for education of children (Amma Vodi), scholarship for higher education, women empowerment (YSR Asara/YSR Cheyutha), social safety net through pensions (Pensionla Pempu), housing for poor (Pedalandariki Illu), quality healthcare for all (Arogyasri) and ban of alcohol.

Jagan, who is on a week-long visit to the United States, was welcomed by Indian Ambassador to the United States, Harsh V Shringla, in Washington.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who is on his first foreign trip after assuming power, held discussions with members of the business community in Washington DC on Saturday to explore investment opportunities for US companies in Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who is on his first foreign trip after assuming power, held discussions with members of the business community in Washington DC on Saturday to explore investment opportunities for US companies in Andhra Pradesh. He also discussed opportunities to strengthen connectivity between the US and Andhra with members of the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Atlantic Council's South Asia Center at a roundtable meeting. Speaking at the meeting, Jagan welcomed the USIBC to work with his government to identify '5 big ideas' to catalyze the US-Andhra Pradesh Economic Partnership. "Andhra Pradesh is poised to catalyze investments, capital and partnerships owing to robust infrastructure for connectivity, enabling policies, integration with global value chains, shifting demographic dividend and a ready workforce," he said. He also said that the state government and the USIBC can prepare a roadmap to achieve investment and trade targets especially in the areas of agriculture and food security, healthcare, education, infrastructure and manufacturing. The Chief Minister also welcomed US companies to expand their CSR activities in India. Jagan presented his comprehensive governance and development model, built on nine assurances called 'Navaratnalu' namely support to farmers (Rythu Bharosa), irrigation development (Jala Yagnam), incentives to mothers for education of children (Amma Vodi), scholarship for higher education, women empowerment (YSR Asara/YSR Cheyutha), social safety net through pensions (Pensionla Pempu), housing for poor (Pedalandariki Illu), quality healthcare for all (Arogyasri) and ban of alcohol. Jagan, who is on a week-long visit to the United States, was welcomed by Indian Ambassador to the United States, Harsh V Shringla, in Washington.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy discusses investment opportunities during US visit

The US Commerce Department is expected to extend a reprieve given to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-launches-first-product-with-own-operating-system-242084">Huawei Technologies</a> that permit the Chinese firm to buy supplies from US companies so that it can service existing customers, sources familiar with the situation said.

The "temporary general license" will be extended for Huawei for 90 days, the sources said.

The extension renews an agreement set to lapse on August 19, continuing the Chinese company's ability to maintain existing telecommunications networks and provide software updates to Huawei handsets.

The situation surrounding the license, which has become a key bargaining chip for the United States in its trade negotiations with China, remains fluid and the decision to continue the Huawei reprieve could change ahead of the Monday deadline, the sources said.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to discuss Huawei in a call this weekend, one of the sources said.

The world's largest telecommunications equipment maker is still prohibited from buying American parts and components to manufacture new products without additional license approvals.

The US government blacklisted Huawei alleging the Chinese company is involved in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests.

The United States says Huawei's smartphones and network equipment could be used by China to spy on Americans, allegations the company has repeatedly denied.

The Commerce Department late on Friday declined to comment, referring to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross’s comments to CNBC television earlier this week in which he said the existing licenses were in effect until Monday.

Asked if they would be extended he said: ''On Monday I'll be happy to update you.''

The US Commerce Department is expected to extend a reprieve given to Huawei Technologies that permit the Chinese firm to buy supplies from US companies so that it can service existing customers, sources familiar with the situation said.

The US Commerce Department is expected to extend a reprieve given to Huawei Technologies that permit the Chinese firm to buy supplies from US companies so that it can service existing customers, sources familiar with the situation said. The "temporary general license" will be extended for Huawei for 90 days, the sources said. The extension renews an agreement set to lapse on August 19, continuing the Chinese company's ability to maintain existing telecommunications networks and provide software updates to Huawei handsets. The situation surrounding the license, which has become a key bargaining chip for the United States in its trade negotiations with China, remains fluid and the decision to continue the Huawei reprieve could change ahead of the Monday deadline, the sources said. US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to discuss Huawei in a call this weekend, one of the sources said. The world's largest telecommunications equipment maker is still prohibited from buying American parts and components to manufacture new products without additional license approvals. The US government blacklisted Huawei alleging the Chinese company is involved in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests. The United States says Huawei's smartphones and network equipment could be used by China to spy on Americans, allegations the company has repeatedly denied. The Commerce Department late on Friday declined to comment, referring to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross’s comments to CNBC television earlier this week in which he said the existing licenses were in effect until Monday. Asked if they would be extended he said: ''On Monday I'll be happy to update you.''

US to extend Huawei's partial reprieve on supply curbs: Sources

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-gets-update-from-aides-on-afghan-peace-plan-with-troop-pullout-possible-243530">Trump gets update from aides on Afghan peace plan with troop pullout possible</a>

US President Donald Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security advisers on the status of negotiations with the Taliban on a US troop pullout from Afghanistan and the potential for a political settlement between the warring sides.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2g-mobile-internet-restored-in-some-parts-of-jammu-and-kashmir-243538">2G mobile internet restored in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir</a>

A day after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam announced measures to ease restrictions in valley, 2G mobile internet services have been restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur, reported news agency ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-cuts-440-million-financial-aid-to-pakistan-243537">US cuts $440 million financial aid to Pakistan amid Kashmir tensions</a>

In another jolt to Pakistan, the United States slashed the aid to the cash-strapped nation by nearly $440 million, bringing down its commitment to just $ 4.1 billion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mediation-off-table-as-trump-calls-for-bilateral-between-india-and-pakistan-243529">Mediation off table as US President Donald Trump says Indian and Pakistan should resolve issues bilaterally</a>

The United States President Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan is off the table as Trump has told Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan that New Delhi and Islamabad have to resolve issues bilaterally.&nbsp;

<a href="wionews.com/world/having-dinner-on-friday-with-tim-cook-of-apple-trump-243533">Having dinner on Friday with Tim Cook of Apple: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said he was having dinner on Friday with Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook of Apple, a company the president has criticized for not manufacturing more of its products in the United States.

Trump gets update from aides on Afghan peace plan with troop pullout possible US President Donald Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security advisers on the status of negotiations with the Taliban on a US troop pullout from Afghanistan and the potential for a political settlement between the warring sides.

Trump gets update from aides on Afghan peace plan with troop pullout possible US President Donald Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security advisers on the status of negotiations with the Taliban on a US troop pullout from Afghanistan and the potential for a political settlement between the warring sides. 2G mobile internet restored in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir A day after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam announced measures to ease restrictions in valley, 2G mobile internet services have been restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur, reported news agency ANI. US cuts $440 million financial aid to Pakistan amid Kashmir tensions In another jolt to Pakistan, the United States slashed the aid to the cash-strapped nation by nearly $440 million, bringing down its commitment to just $ 4.1 billion. Mediation off table as US President Donald Trump says Indian and Pakistan should resolve issues bilaterally The United States President Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan is off the table as Trump has told Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan that New Delhi and Islamabad have to resolve issues bilaterally. Having dinner on Friday with Tim Cook of Apple: Trump US President Donald Trump said he was having dinner on Friday with Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook of Apple, a company the president has criticized for not manufacturing more of its products in the United States.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In another jolt to Pakistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-calls-for-a-high-level-meeting-to-deliberate-future-course-of-action-on-kashmir-243534">United States slashed the aid to the cash-strapped nation</a> by nearly $440 million, bringing down its commitment to just $ 4.1 billion.

The aid was disbursed under Pakistan Enhanced Partnership Agreement (PEPA) 2010, reported Express Tribune.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-offers-to-mediate-on-kashmir-issue-during-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-report-237780">US apprised Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> about its decision to cut aid three weeks before his planned visit to Washington.

Notably, the PEPA was signed in September 2010 to make operational the Kerry Lugar Berman (KLB) Act that was passed by the US Congress in October 2009 to disburse $7.5 billion to Pakistan over a period of 5 years.

Earlier the aid under the KLB stood at nearly $4.5 billion. Following the cut, the aid will come down to $4.1 billion.

Last year in September, the United States' military cancelled the financial aid worth $300 million to Pakistan due to the growing concerns regarding Islamabad's failure to tackle terrorism.

In January that year, Pentagon had cut $1 billion worth financial aid to Pakistan, with Defense Secretary James Mattis and other officials citing Islamabad's failure to crack down on the Haqqani terror outfit as the reason behind it, Fox News reported.

During his meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, last month, US President Donald Trump strongly criticised Islamabad for its behaviour which led to the cancellation of US aid amounting to $1.3 billion to the country.

"We were paying $1.3 billion to Pakistan as aid, for many years. The problem was...Pakistan was not doing anything for us. They were really subversive.

They were going against us. I ended that about a year and a half ago, the $1.3 billion (aid)," Trump said during his meeting with Khan.

In another jolt to Pakistan, the United States slashed the aid to the cash-strapped nation by nearly $440 million, bringing down its commitment to just $ 4.1 billion.

In another jolt to Pakistan, the United States slashed the aid to the cash-strapped nation by nearly $440 million, bringing down its commitment to just $ 4.1 billion. The aid was disbursed under Pakistan Enhanced Partnership Agreement (PEPA) 2010, reported Express Tribune. The US apprised Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan about its decision to cut aid three weeks before his planned visit to Washington. Notably, the PEPA was signed in September 2010 to make operational the Kerry Lugar Berman (KLB) Act that was passed by the US Congress in October 2009 to disburse $7.5 billion to Pakistan over a period of 5 years. Earlier the aid under the KLB stood at nearly $4.5 billion. Following the cut, the aid will come down to $4.1 billion. Last year in September, the United States' military cancelled the financial aid worth $300 million to Pakistan due to the growing concerns regarding Islamabad's failure to tackle terrorism. In January that year, Pentagon had cut $1 billion worth financial aid to Pakistan, with Defense Secretary James Mattis and other officials citing Islamabad's failure to crack down on the Haqqani terror outfit as the reason behind it, Fox News reported. During his meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, last month, US President Donald Trump strongly criticised Islamabad for its behaviour which led to the cancellation of US aid amounting to $1.3 billion to the country. "We were paying $1.3 billion to Pakistan as aid, for many years. The problem was...Pakistan was not doing anything for us. They were really subversive. They were going against us. I ended that about a year and a half ago, the $1.3 billion (aid)," Trump said during his meeting with Khan.

US cuts $440 million financial aid to Pakistan amid Kashmir tensions

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