Around 29 crew members of offshore support vessel, Coastal Jaguar jumped into the water after a fire engulfed the vessel in Vishakapatnam&nbsp;on Monday.

28 members have been rescued by the Indian Coast Guard while a search is on for one missing crew member.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Visakhapatnam: At 11:30 am today, 29 crew members of Offshore Support Vessel Coastal Jaguar jumped into water after a fire engulfed the vessel. 28 rescued by Indian Coast Guard. Search for 1 missing crew underway. Exact cause of fire yet to be ascertained. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraPradesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/pksYGrC9ZE">pic.twitter.com/pksYGrC9ZE</a>
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"At 11.30am on August 12, the crew of offshore support vessel Coastal Jaguar had to abandon their vessel and jump into the water to save themselves from a fire which engulfed the vessel. There was reportedly a loud explosion onboard Coastal Jaguar that was followed by thick smoke emanating from the vessel. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained," a release by the Indian Coast Guard said.

Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Rani Rashmoni which was in the area was diverted to coordinate the rescue operation.&nbsp;

ICGS Rani Rashmoni in coordination with the Visakhapatnam Port Trust (VPT) boats rescued the distressed crew.

"28 out of the 29 crew present on board have been rescued while the search for one missing crew is in progress. ICGS Samudra Paheredar, ICG Helicopter and ICGS C-432 were pressed into action to further augment the rescue efforts," the release stated.

Around 29 crew members of offshore support vessel, Coastal Jaguar jumped into the water after a fire engulfed the vessel in Vishakapatnam on Monday. 28 members have been rescued by the Indian Coast Guard while a search is on for one missing crew member.

Around 29 crew members of offshore support vessel, Coastal Jaguar jumped into the water after a fire engulfed the vessel in Vishakapatnam on Monday. 28 members have been rescued by the Indian Coast Guard while a search is on for one missing crew member. #WATCH Visakhapatnam: At 11:30 am today, 29 crew members of Offshore Support Vessel Coastal Jaguar jumped into water after a fire engulfed the vessel. 28 rescued by Indian Coast Guard. Search for 1 missing crew underway. Exact cause of fire yet to be ascertained. #AndhraPradesh pic.twitter.com/pksYGrC9ZE — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2019 × "At 11.30am on August 12, the crew of offshore support vessel Coastal Jaguar had to abandon their vessel and jump into the water to save themselves from a fire which engulfed the vessel. There was reportedly a loud explosion onboard Coastal Jaguar that was followed by thick smoke emanating from the vessel. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained," a release by the Indian Coast Guard said. Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Rani Rashmoni which was in the area was diverted to coordinate the rescue operation. ICGS Rani Rashmoni in coordination with the Visakhapatnam Port Trust (VPT) boats rescued the distressed crew. "28 out of the 29 crew present on board have been rescued while the search for one missing crew is in progress. ICGS Samudra Paheredar, ICG Helicopter and ICGS C-432 were pressed into action to further augment the rescue efforts," the release stated.

Offshore vessel Coastal Jaguar catches fire; 28 members rescued and one still missing

Yen&nbsp;and&nbsp;bond&nbsp;bulls&nbsp;charged on Monday while stocks struggled again, amid ongoing worries that a prolonged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-china-trade-war-points-to-the-real-crisis-that-global-leaders-must-confront-at-g20-summit-231112">US-China trade war </a>and damaging Brexit could tip-top economies into recession.

Early gains for Europe's main bourses had quickly disappeared and Wall Street futures were already in the red after Asia-Pacific had also finished lower overnight.

That was despite a more than 1% rally for Chinese stocks after the yuan had avoided further drama and financial regulators there had relaxed margin financing rules late on Friday.

Safety remained the name of the game.

FX harbour, the Japanese&nbsp;yen, hit its highest in nearly a year and a half at 105.32&nbsp;yen&nbsp;against the dollar and gained against the euro and Brexit-bruised British pound too.

"Risk indicators and&nbsp;global&nbsp;markets&nbsp;have become shakier and the&nbsp;yen&nbsp;is reflecting those concerns, and safe-haven shelters like the&nbsp;yen&nbsp;and the Swiss franc should continue to benefit," said Commerzbank currency strategist Esther Reichelt.

In&nbsp;bond&nbsp;markets, the demand for guaranteed income was also unrelenting.

A rally in Italy's debt gave it an extra boost after Fitch kept country's rating steady despite the prospect of snap elections in the euro zone's third-biggest economy now looming.

There were signs that League leader Matteo Salvini's call for those snap elections was facing mounting resistance from other parties whose support will be needed for the plan to succeed.

"Fitch kept Italy's rating unchanged and some market participants may be betting that a snap election could be delayed," said DZ Bank rates strategist Sebastian Fellechner, referring to the fall in yields.

Economists are also watching for a batch of&nbsp;global&nbsp;data this week.

Goldman Sachs became the latest to cut its US&nbsp;growth forecast at the weekend, warning that a US&nbsp;China trade deal now looked unlikely before the 2020 US&nbsp;presidential election.

One week ago, China allowed the yuan to break through the key 7-per-dollar level for the first time since 2008, prompting Washington to label Beijing a currency manipulator and sparking market ructions.

The International Monetary Fund said on Friday that it stood by its assessment that the value of China's yuan was largely in line with economic fundamentals.

Mixed messages

On Friday, Wall Street snapped a three-day winning streak after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said Washington was continuing trade talks with Beijing, but that the U.S. was not going to make a deal for now.

Those comments helped to drive a late sell-off in a volatile session that saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average fall 0.34%, the S&amp;P 500 lost 0.66% and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 1%.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro subsequently said that the United States was still planning to hold another round of trade talks with Chinese negotiators.

Wall Street futures were down 0.5%.

In commodities, oil prices dipped on growth and trade worries, having risen sharply on Friday on a drop-in European inventories and production cuts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

International benchmark Brent crude futures were at $58.16 a barrel by 0829 GMT, down 37 cents from their previous settlement.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) CLc1 futures were at $53.89 per barrel, down 61 cents from their last close.

Both benchmarks fell last week, with Brent losing more than 5% and WTI falling about 2%.

"The market is facing a buyers' strike," said Michael Tran, commodity strategist at RBC Capital&nbsp;Markets, noting the low level of investors' long positions betting on higher prices.

"Despite the laundry list of disruptions and additional barrels at risk, investor length is currently near a multi-year low."

Argentina's&nbsp;markets&nbsp;were ready for a slump too after voters soundly rejected President Mauricio Macri's austere economic policies in primary elections at the weekend, raising serious questions about his chances of re-election in October.

Argentina's 2028-maturing, euro-denominated government&nbsp;bond&nbsp;was down more than 11 cents in European trading, Tradeweb data showed.

Yen and bond bulls charged on Monday while stocks struggled again, amid ongoing worries that a prolonged US-China trade war and damaging Brexit could tip-top economies into recession.

Yen and bond bulls charged on Monday while stocks struggled again, amid ongoing worries that a prolonged US-China trade war and damaging Brexit could tip-top economies into recession. Early gains for Europe's main bourses had quickly disappeared and Wall Street futures were already in the red after Asia-Pacific had also finished lower overnight. That was despite a more than 1% rally for Chinese stocks after the yuan had avoided further drama and financial regulators there had relaxed margin financing rules late on Friday. Safety remained the name of the game. FX harbour, the Japanese yen, hit its highest in nearly a year and a half at 105.32 yen against the dollar and gained against the euro and Brexit-bruised British pound too. "Risk indicators and global markets have become shakier and the yen is reflecting those concerns, and safe-haven shelters like the yen and the Swiss franc should continue to benefit," said Commerzbank currency strategist Esther Reichelt. In bond markets, the demand for guaranteed income was also unrelenting. A rally in Italy's debt gave it an extra boost after Fitch kept country's rating steady despite the prospect of snap elections in the euro zone's third-biggest economy now looming. There were signs that League leader Matteo Salvini's call for those snap elections was facing mounting resistance from other parties whose support will be needed for the plan to succeed. "Fitch kept Italy's rating unchanged and some market participants may be betting that a snap election could be delayed," said DZ Bank rates strategist Sebastian Fellechner, referring to the fall in yields. Economists are also watching for a batch of global data this week. Goldman Sachs became the latest to cut its US growth forecast at the weekend, warning that a US China trade deal now looked unlikely before the 2020 US presidential election. One week ago, China allowed the yuan to break through the key 7-per-dollar level for the first time since 2008, prompting Washington to label Beijing a currency manipulator and sparking market ructions. The International Monetary Fund said on Friday that it stood by its assessment that the value of China's yuan was largely in line with economic fundamentals. Mixed messages On Friday, Wall Street snapped a three-day winning streak after US President Donald Trump said Washington was continuing trade talks with Beijing, but that the U.S. was not going to make a deal for now. Those comments helped to drive a late sell-off in a volatile session that saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average fall 0.34%, the S&P 500 lost 0.66% and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 1%. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro subsequently said that the United States was still planning to hold another round of trade talks with Chinese negotiators. Wall Street futures were down 0.5%. In commodities, oil prices dipped on growth and trade worries, having risen sharply on Friday on a drop-in European inventories and production cuts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. International benchmark Brent crude futures were at $58.16 a barrel by 0829 GMT, down 37 cents from their previous settlement. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) CLc1 futures were at $53.89 per barrel, down 61 cents from their last close. Both benchmarks fell last week, with Brent losing more than 5% and WTI falling about 2%. "The market is facing a buyers' strike," said Michael Tran, commodity strategist at RBC Capital Markets, noting the low level of investors' long positions betting on higher prices. "Despite the laundry list of disruptions and additional barrels at risk, investor length is currently near a multi-year low." Argentina's markets were ready for a slump too after voters soundly rejected President Mauricio Macri's austere economic policies in primary elections at the weekend, raising serious questions about his chances of re-election in October. Argentina's 2028-maturing, euro-denominated government bond was down more than 11 cents in European trading, Tradeweb data showed.

Yen and bond bulls charge on as share markets falter

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday distributed relief materials to people in his Lok Sabha constituency <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-rahul-gandhi-to-visit-wayanad-tomorrow-241999">Wayanad</a>, one of the worst flood-affected districts in Kerala.

Gandhi, who visisted a relief camp&nbsp;in Kaithapoyil in Wayanad, said that he has sought immediate help and support from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"As your MP, I called the Chief Minister and requested him to provide help as aggressively as possible. I also called the Prime Minister and explained to him the tragedy that has taken place here and the need for support from the Centre," he said.

The Congress leader had on Sunday visited a relief camp at Boodanam Church in flood-hit Malappuram district and reviewed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-around-30000-evacuated-to-relief-camps-in-wayanad-242076"> relief measures</a>.

Twelve people have lost their lives in Wayanad while seven are missing, according to the Kerala Chief Minister's Office.

Heavy rains and floods in the state have claimed 76 lives. Fifty people are missing in the affected districts.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army and the local authorities are carrying out rescue operations.&nbsp;

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday distributed relief materials to people in his Lok Sabha constituency Wayanad, one of the worst flood-affected districts in Kerala.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday distributed relief materials to people in his Lok Sabha constituency Wayanad, one of the worst flood-affected districts in Kerala. Gandhi, who visisted a relief camp in Kaithapoyil in Wayanad, said that he has sought immediate help and support from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "As your MP, I called the Chief Minister and requested him to provide help as aggressively as possible. I also called the Prime Minister and explained to him the tragedy that has taken place here and the need for support from the Centre," he said. The Congress leader had on Sunday visited a relief camp at Boodanam Church in flood-hit Malappuram district and reviewed the relief measures. Twelve people have lost their lives in Wayanad while seven are missing, according to the Kerala Chief Minister's Office. Heavy rains and floods in the state have claimed 76 lives. Fifty people are missing in the affected districts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army and the local authorities are carrying out rescue operations.

Kerala: Rahul Gandhi distributes relief materials in flood-hit Wayanad

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-bill-will-be-a-reality-soon-says-kiren-rijiju-242202">Kiren Rijiju has said</a> that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies.

His remarks came after All India Tennis Association's (AITA) decision to travel to Pakistan to take part in the upcoming Davis Cup.

"I have already made it clear. Any bilateral match with Pakistan will have to get clearance from the government but if it is a multilateral event organised by international bodies then we cannot take our own isolated stand. We have to be very clear," Rijiju told reporters at an event.

However, Rijiju also remarked that any bilateral event between the two countries will require a political sanction.

"Any bilateral match with Pakistan must have a political sanction, otherwise I just cannot go on commenting on every match. The security issue is completely different from the issue of the game," Rijiju said.

On August 5, India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament.

The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed which converted Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature) and after this decision, Pakistan decided to downgrade diplomatic ties with India.

Seeing the downgrading of diplomatic ties, AITA Secretary-General Hironmoy Chatterjee had said that the International Tennis Federation (ITF) will decide whether India plays against Pakistan or not.

"Idea is, for ITF to see the situation is conducive or not. Let the ITF decide on the situation primarily, if they find the situation is very sensitive as Pakistan have severed all diplomatic ties with India, then they will not issue a visa. If they do not issue the visa, so how would we go there. In that case, Pakistan will get penalised and the tie will get shifted to a neutral venue," Chatterjee had told ANI.

The Indian team is scheduled to travel Pakistan for the first time in 55 years to participate in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group-1 tie at Islamabad on September 14 and 15.

Chatterjee said that if India opts out of playing against Pakistan, it will invite penalty. He added that if Pakistan does not issue visas to the players they will be unable to travel.

"We don't want to be in a situation where we will say that we don't want to go. It is too early to say anything, the situation has become a bit tense after the scrapping of Article 370. We are going to go through the process," Chatterjee had said.

Chatterjee had added that the AITA is also gathering information from the players for the visa application of Pakistan.

"Regarding this, we did not have any meeting, we need to put in an application and we are gathering the information for the application of visa as the players are playing in different competitions around the world," Chatterjee had said.

AITA on August 5 had announced Mahesh Bhupathi as the skipper for the India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie on September 14 and 15 in Islamabad.

Six players were named by the association, who will be taking part in Davis Cup. Prajnesh Gunneswaran, Ramkumar Ramanathan, Saketh Myneni, Rohan Bopanna, Divij Sharan and Sasi Kumar Mukund were all named in the lineup.

Mukund was named as the reserve and Zeeshan Ali was announced as the coach of the team.

The Davis Cup draw was rolled out in February this year, but after the Pulwama attack on February 14, chances of the Indian tennis team touring Pakistan looked bleak.

The Indian cricket team had last toured Pakistan in 2007, and after that, no team across any sport has toured Pakistan.

India last played Pakistan in the Davis Cup in 2006 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, in which the hosts managed to register a 3-2 win to take India's head-to-head tally against Pakistan to 6-0.

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju has said that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies.

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju has said that an isolated stand cannot be taken when it comes to multilateral events organised by international bodies. His remarks came after All India Tennis Association's (AITA) decision to travel to Pakistan to take part in the upcoming Davis Cup. "I have already made it clear. Any bilateral match with Pakistan will have to get clearance from the government but if it is a multilateral event organised by international bodies then we cannot take our own isolated stand. We have to be very clear," Rijiju told reporters at an event. However, Rijiju also remarked that any bilateral event between the two countries will require a political sanction. "Any bilateral match with Pakistan must have a political sanction, otherwise I just cannot go on commenting on every match. The security issue is completely different from the issue of the game," Rijiju said. On August 5, India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament. The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed which converted Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature) and after this decision, Pakistan decided to downgrade diplomatic ties with India. Seeing the downgrading of diplomatic ties, AITA Secretary-General Hironmoy Chatterjee had said that the International Tennis Federation (ITF) will decide whether India plays against Pakistan or not. "Idea is, for ITF to see the situation is conducive or not. Let the ITF decide on the situation primarily, if they find the situation is very sensitive as Pakistan have severed all diplomatic ties with India, then they will not issue a visa. If they do not issue the visa, so how would we go there. In that case, Pakistan will get penalised and the tie will get shifted to a neutral venue," Chatterjee had told ANI. The Indian team is scheduled to travel Pakistan for the first time in 55 years to participate in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group-1 tie at Islamabad on September 14 and 15. Chatterjee said that if India opts out of playing against Pakistan, it will invite penalty. He added that if Pakistan does not issue visas to the players they will be unable to travel. "We don't want to be in a situation where we will say that we don't want to go. It is too early to say anything, the situation has become a bit tense after the scrapping of Article 370. We are going to go through the process," Chatterjee had said. Chatterjee had added that the AITA is also gathering information from the players for the visa application of Pakistan. "Regarding this, we did not have any meeting, we need to put in an application and we are gathering the information for the application of visa as the players are playing in different competitions around the world," Chatterjee had said. AITA on August 5 had announced Mahesh Bhupathi as the skipper for the India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie on September 14 and 15 in Islamabad. Six players were named by the association, who will be taking part in Davis Cup. Prajnesh Gunneswaran, Ramkumar Ramanathan, Saketh Myneni, Rohan Bopanna, Divij Sharan and Sasi Kumar Mukund were all named in the lineup. Mukund was named as the reserve and Zeeshan Ali was announced as the coach of the team. The Davis Cup draw was rolled out in February this year, but after the Pulwama attack on February 14, chances of the Indian tennis team touring Pakistan looked bleak. The Indian cricket team had last toured Pakistan in 2007, and after that, no team across any sport has toured Pakistan. India last played Pakistan in the Davis Cup in 2006 at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, in which the hosts managed to register a 3-2 win to take India's head-to-head tally against Pakistan to 6-0.

Cannot take isolated stand in multilateral events: Sports minister Kiren Rijiju

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met China's Vice President Wang Qishan here on Monday and discussed strengthening of relations with the Chinese leader.

Jaishankar, who is currently on a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-eam-s-jaishankar-on-3-day-china-visit-242321"> three-day visit to China</a> to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges, said India's relationship with China should be a factor of stability in the region.

This is Jaishankar's first visit to China after assuming office in May this year.

Wang welcomed the Minister to the country, while Jaishankar, on his part, said he was glad to be in the communist nation.

"I am really glad that early in my period I had an opportunity to visit China," he said.

Jaishankar's visit comes amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, whereby Islamabad, last week, had initiated a series of decisions, including downgrading bilateral relations with India and suspending bilateral trade, following the Indian government's decision to repeal Article 370 that conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcate it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Ahead of Jaishankar's visit, his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi had visited Beijing to raise the Kashmir issue with the Chinese leadership and seek its support to take the matter to the United Nations.

Speaking in light of Qureshi's demand, Jaishankar, in his meeting with Wang said, "At a time the world is more uncertain, we believe our relationship should be a factor of stability in the region."

China had recently objected to the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370, in response to which New Delhi had issued a statement saying that the move was an internal matter concerning the territory of India.

Jaishankar's visit to China from August 11-13 will prepare the ground for the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met China's Vice President Wang Qishan here on Monday and discussed strengthening of relations with the Chinese leader. Jaishankar, who is currently on a three-day visit to China to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges, said India's relationship with China should be a factor of stability in the region.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met China's Vice President Wang Qishan here on Monday and discussed strengthening of relations with the Chinese leader. Jaishankar, who is currently on a three-day visit to China to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges, said India's relationship with China should be a factor of stability in the region. This is Jaishankar's first visit to China after assuming office in May this year. Wang welcomed the Minister to the country, while Jaishankar, on his part, said he was glad to be in the communist nation. "I am really glad that early in my period I had an opportunity to visit China," he said. Jaishankar's visit comes amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, whereby Islamabad, last week, had initiated a series of decisions, including downgrading bilateral relations with India and suspending bilateral trade, following the Indian government's decision to repeal Article 370 that conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcate it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Ahead of Jaishankar's visit, his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi had visited Beijing to raise the Kashmir issue with the Chinese leadership and seek its support to take the matter to the United Nations. Speaking in light of Qureshi's demand, Jaishankar, in his meeting with Wang said, "At a time the world is more uncertain, we believe our relationship should be a factor of stability in the region." China had recently objected to the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370, in response to which New Delhi had issued a statement saying that the move was an internal matter concerning the territory of India. Jaishankar's visit to China from August 11-13 will prepare the ground for the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

India's foreign minister Jaishankar meets Chinese Vice President, discusses strengthening of ties

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were in need of a fast start to the campaign to erase memories of a terrible end to last season and got it, as Rashford's early penalty and three goals in 16 second-half minutes from Anthony Martial, Rashford and debutant Daniel James had Old Trafford in raptures.

Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka also impressed at the back on their debuts after United spent £130 million ($156 million) on the pair over the summer to shore up a defence that conceded 54 Premier League goals last season.

However, questions will be asked of Chelsea's decision to let experienced defender David Luiz leave to join Arsenal earlier this week as the Blues struggled to contain the United counter-attacks despite dominating long spells.

Lampard's first team selection was a bold one as he put his faith in youth with Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount handed starts, while £60 million signing Christian Pulisic was made to wait for his Premier League debut on the bench.

And Chelsea started the better as Abraham smashed a shot from the edge of the box off the post.

However, the heart of the Chelsea defence always looked fragile.

Kurt Zouma had already gotten away with gifting possession to Martial on the edge of his own box as the Frenchman shot weakly into the arms of Kepa Arrizabalaga before he was turned easily by Rashford and hauled the England striker to the ground.

Pogba the provider

Rashford dusted himself off to blast the penalty high past Kepa to open the scoring and United fed off the momentum of the goal for a spell.

Yet, Chelsea steadied themselves as the first half wore on and should have at least been level by the break.

David de Gea was forced into a fine save with his feet to deny Ross Barkley before left-back Emerson Palmieri also blasted off the inside of the post.&nbsp;

De Gea was at fault with a series of high-profile errors towards the end of last season, but the Spaniard -- &nbsp;handed the captain's armband in the absence of Ashley Young -- looked back to his old self as he beat away another two powerful drives from Emerson after the break.

And at the other end, Rashford and Martial provided the clinical touch to kill the game off in the space of 60 seconds that Chelsea lacked.

Maguire showed his presence to outmuscle Abraham on the edge of the United box and set off a flowing counter-attack that ended with Martial bundling the ball home at the far post from Andreas Pereira's cross.

Paul Pogba then played provider with a brilliant ball over the top for Rashford to burst in behind before coolly slotting past Kepa.

Pogba was the creator again for the fourth as the Frenchman played a one-two with Rashford and powered through the Chelsea defence before laying off to James, who got the benefit of a big deflection to find the bottom corner.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were in need of a fast start to the campaign to erase memories of a terrible end to last season and got it, as Rashford's early penalty and three goals in 16 second-half minutes from Anthony Martial, Rashford and debutant Daniel James had Old Trafford in raptures. Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka also impressed at the back on their debuts after United spent £130 million ($156 million) on the pair over the summer to shore up a defence that conceded 54 Premier League goals last season. However, questions will be asked of Chelsea's decision to let experienced defender David Luiz leave to join Arsenal earlier this week as the Blues struggled to contain the United counter-attacks despite dominating long spells. Lampard's first team selection was a bold one as he put his faith in youth with Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount handed starts, while £60 million signing Christian Pulisic was made to wait for his Premier League debut on the bench. And Chelsea started the better as Abraham smashed a shot from the edge of the box off the post. However, the heart of the Chelsea defence always looked fragile. Kurt Zouma had already gotten away with gifting possession to Martial on the edge of his own box as the Frenchman shot weakly into the arms of Kepa Arrizabalaga before he was turned easily by Rashford and hauled the England striker to the ground. Pogba the provider Rashford dusted himself off to blast the penalty high past Kepa to open the scoring and United fed off the momentum of the goal for a spell. Yet, Chelsea steadied themselves as the first half wore on and should have at least been level by the break. David de Gea was forced into a fine save with his feet to deny Ross Barkley before left-back Emerson Palmieri also blasted off the inside of the post. De Gea was at fault with a series of high-profile errors towards the end of last season, but the Spaniard -- handed the captain's armband in the absence of Ashley Young -- looked back to his old self as he beat away another two powerful drives from Emerson after the break. And at the other end, Rashford and Martial provided the clinical touch to kill the game off in the space of 60 seconds that Chelsea lacked. Maguire showed his presence to outmuscle Abraham on the edge of the United box and set off a flowing counter-attack that ended with Martial bundling the ball home at the far post from Andreas Pereira's cross. Paul Pogba then played provider with a brilliant ball over the top for Rashford to burst in behind before coolly slotting past Kepa. Pogba was the creator again for the fourth as the Frenchman played a one-two with Rashford and powered through the Chelsea defence before laying off to James, who got the benefit of a big deflection to find the bottom corner.

Manchester United inflict 4-0 thrashing on Lampard's Chelsea

Sri Lanka's main opposition party named a hardline former defence chief as its presidential candidate on Sunday, seeking to capitalise on public clamour for a decisive leader after deadly Easter day bombings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/many-sri-lankans-want-a-strongman-leader-and-that-favours-gotabaya-rajapaksa-242122">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>, 70, served under his older brother, ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa, and is widely seen as the frontrunner in a presidential election that must be held before December 9.

Gotabaya is immensely popular among Sri Lanka's powerful Sinhala Buddhist majority, who credit him with ending the island nation's 26-year-long civil war in 2009 and believe Colombo needs a seasoned hand after the April 21 Islamist bombings.

But critics say that during the civil war Gotabaya crushed the dissident Tamil Tigers with little regard for human rights, allowed abductions and gave consent to extrajudicial killings. He has rejected all the allegations.

On Sunday, thousands thronged a huge indoor stadium in the heart of the capital Colombo for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party's convention.

The place echoed with cheers of "victory for you" when Mahinda named Gotabaya as the SLPP's presidential candidate.

"I will accept responsibility for your safety, and the safety of your children and your loved ones," Gotabaya said to cheers as supporters waved posters of his smiling face.

Gotabya vowed that, if elected, he would prioritise Sri Lanka's national security and the revival of its economy, which has been hit by a lull in tourism after the attacks.

Sri Lankans are still reeling from the Easter Sunday bombings, when militants blew themselves up in luxury hotels and churches killing more than 250 people and shattering the island's decade of relative peace since the end of the civil war. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.

Voters were furious when it emerged repeated intelligence warnings from India about an impending attack had not been acted on. President Maithripala Sirisena, the leader of centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party, and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, from the centre-right United National Party (UNP), have traded blame over the missed warnings.

Most Buddhist leaders and some victims of the terror attacks have since openly expressed their desire for the Rajapaksa family to return to power.

Gotabaya on Sunday sought to extend an olive branch to non-Buddhists, who make up roughly 30 per cent of the population, and the Tamil community.

"I pledge to create a safe and secure environment in which all Sri Lankans, irrespective of their race or religion, will be able to live in peace," he said to an audience which comprised of several saffron-clad Buddhist monks, seated higher than the others to signify their status in Sri Lankan society.

Other parties have not formally announced their presidential candidates but Gotabaya's main challenger is expected to be Housing Minister Sajith Premadasa, a UNP politician who is also popular with hardline Buddhists.

Another Rajapaksa?

The fifth of nine siblings, Gotabaya was raised in the southern rural area of Hambantota. His family became one of the most politically-powerful dynasties on the island of around 22 million people.

Under Mahinda's administration, Gotabaya was in charge of defence and urban development, while his brothers Basil and Chamal were the economy minister and speaker respectively.

Mahinda, who served as president for a decade until 2015, is constitutionally barred from a third term and currently leads the opposition. Last year, he attempted to capture power and return as prime minister, a move which was thwarted by the country's top court.

Opponents of the Rajapaksas have criticised what they deem dynasty politics.

"If Mahinda Rajapaksa's message to the people is that one of his brothers should be president... that tells us all we need to know: in the mind of Mahinda Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka, its land and its people are destined to be the private property of the Rajapaksa family," Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said in a statement on Sunday.

During Mahinda's term, Beijing invested billions of dollars in the Indian Ocean island, building ports, power stations and highways as part of its Belt and Road Initiative of trade and transport links across Asia. China's assistance came at a time when the West and India were piling pressure on him over alleged war crimes.

Gotabaya faces legal challenges in the United States, where Tamils have sued him for his alleged role in torture and murder during the civil war.

Gotabaya, who migrated to the United States in 1998, was a dual citizen but has now renounced his U.S. citizenship, his brother Basil said last week.

Sri Lanka does not allow dual citizenship-holders to contest elections.

Sri Lanka's main opposition party named a hardline former defence chief as its presidential candidate on Sunday, seeking to capitalise on public clamour for a decisive leader after deadly Easter day bombings.

Sri Lanka's main opposition party named a hardline former defence chief as its presidential candidate on Sunday, seeking to capitalise on public clamour for a decisive leader after deadly Easter day bombings. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, 70, served under his older brother, ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa, and is widely seen as the frontrunner in a presidential election that must be held before December 9. Gotabaya is immensely popular among Sri Lanka's powerful Sinhala Buddhist majority, who credit him with ending the island nation's 26-year-long civil war in 2009 and believe Colombo needs a seasoned hand after the April 21 Islamist bombings. But critics say that during the civil war Gotabaya crushed the dissident Tamil Tigers with little regard for human rights, allowed abductions and gave consent to extrajudicial killings. He has rejected all the allegations. On Sunday, thousands thronged a huge indoor stadium in the heart of the capital Colombo for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party's convention. The place echoed with cheers of "victory for you" when Mahinda named Gotabaya as the SLPP's presidential candidate. "I will accept responsibility for your safety, and the safety of your children and your loved ones," Gotabaya said to cheers as supporters waved posters of his smiling face. Gotabya vowed that, if elected, he would prioritise Sri Lanka's national security and the revival of its economy, which has been hit by a lull in tourism after the attacks. Sri Lankans are still reeling from the Easter Sunday bombings, when militants blew themselves up in luxury hotels and churches killing more than 250 people and shattering the island's decade of relative peace since the end of the civil war. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. Voters were furious when it emerged repeated intelligence warnings from India about an impending attack had not been acted on. President Maithripala Sirisena, the leader of centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party, and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, from the centre-right United National Party (UNP), have traded blame over the missed warnings. Most Buddhist leaders and some victims of the terror attacks have since openly expressed their desire for the Rajapaksa family to return to power. Gotabaya on Sunday sought to extend an olive branch to non-Buddhists, who make up roughly 30 per cent of the population, and the Tamil community. "I pledge to create a safe and secure environment in which all Sri Lankans, irrespective of their race or religion, will be able to live in peace," he said to an audience which comprised of several saffron-clad Buddhist monks, seated higher than the others to signify their status in Sri Lankan society. Other parties have not formally announced their presidential candidates but Gotabaya's main challenger is expected to be Housing Minister Sajith Premadasa, a UNP politician who is also popular with hardline Buddhists. Another Rajapaksa? The fifth of nine siblings, Gotabaya was raised in the southern rural area of Hambantota. His family became one of the most politically-powerful dynasties on the island of around 22 million people. Under Mahinda's administration, Gotabaya was in charge of defence and urban development, while his brothers Basil and Chamal were the economy minister and speaker respectively. Mahinda, who served as president for a decade until 2015, is constitutionally barred from a third term and currently leads the opposition. Last year, he attempted to capture power and return as prime minister, a move which was thwarted by the country's top court. Opponents of the Rajapaksas have criticised what they deem dynasty politics. "If Mahinda Rajapaksa's message to the people is that one of his brothers should be president... that tells us all we need to know: in the mind of Mahinda Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka, its land and its people are destined to be the private property of the Rajapaksa family," Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said in a statement on Sunday. During Mahinda's term, Beijing invested billions of dollars in the Indian Ocean island, building ports, power stations and highways as part of its Belt and Road Initiative of trade and transport links across Asia. China's assistance came at a time when the West and India were piling pressure on him over alleged war crimes. Gotabaya faces legal challenges in the United States, where Tamils have sued him for his alleged role in torture and murder during the civil war. Gotabaya, who migrated to the United States in 1998, was a dual citizen but has now renounced his U.S. citizenship, his brother Basil said last week. Sri Lanka does not allow dual citizenship-holders to contest elections.

Sri Lanka wartime defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa launches presidential bid

Veteran actor Rajinikanth on Sunday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah duo for the actions taken by them on the Kashmir issue.

"My heartfelt congratulations to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-no-doubts-about-consequences-of-removing-article-370-amit-shah-242159">Amit Shah for Mission Kashmir operation</a>. The way you conducted it, especially the speech you delivered in Parliament was fantastic. Amit Shah ji and Modi ji are like Krishna-Arjuna combination," Rajinikanth said at a function here.

He tried to give it a humorous turn, by adding, "We do not know who is Krishna and Arjuna between the two, they only know who is what. I will say good luck to you and to the country, through you."

Rajinikanth was speaking at a book launch event on the end of the two-year tenure of Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu.

Shah, Naidu, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and other dignitaries were also present at the event held in Chennai.

Earlier, in his speech given at the event, Shah said he firmly believed that Article 370 has never helped the country of Jammu and Kashmir and should have been removed long ago.

"As a Home Minister, there was no confusion in my mind about the consequences of removing Art 370. I am confident terrorism in Kashmir will finish and it will move ahead on the path of development now", Shah said.

The book captures glimpses of vice-president's 330 public engagements during his two-year tenure in office and has been titled "Listening, learning and leading".

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar, Governor Banwarilal Purohit and Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami were also present during the function.

Veteran actor Rajinikanth on Sunday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah duo for the actions taken by them on the Kashmir issue.

Veteran actor Rajinikanth on Sunday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah duo for the actions taken by them on the Kashmir issue. "My heartfelt congratulations to Amit Shah for Mission Kashmir operation. The way you conducted it, especially the speech you delivered in Parliament was fantastic. Amit Shah ji and Modi ji are like Krishna-Arjuna combination," Rajinikanth said at a function here. He tried to give it a humorous turn, by adding, "We do not know who is Krishna and Arjuna between the two, they only know who is what. I will say good luck to you and to the country, through you." Rajinikanth was speaking at a book launch event on the end of the two-year tenure of Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. Shah, Naidu, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and other dignitaries were also present at the event held in Chennai. Earlier, in his speech given at the event, Shah said he firmly believed that Article 370 has never helped the country of Jammu and Kashmir and should have been removed long ago. "As a Home Minister, there was no confusion in my mind about the consequences of removing Art 370. I am confident terrorism in Kashmir will finish and it will move ahead on the path of development now", Shah said. The book captures glimpses of vice-president's 330 public engagements during his two-year tenure in office and has been titled "Listening, learning and leading". Union Minister Prakash Javadekar, Governor Banwarilal Purohit and Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami were also present during the function.

Amit Shah and PM Modi are like Krishna-Arjuna combination: Rajinikanth

Congress leader and MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday visited a relief camp at Boodanam Church in Nilambur, Malappuram in Kerala and reviewed relief measures in the flood-ravaged district.

Gandhi, who is a Member of Parliament (MP) from Wayanad, interacted with the flood victims with the help of local leaders.

As many as 11 people have died in the district alone due to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../flood-fury-continues-in-southwest-india-42- dead-in-kerala-242065"> floods</a>.

Gandhi reached Kerala today for his<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-rahul-gandhi-to-visit-wayanad-tomorrow-241999"> two-day visit.</a>

"For the next few days, I will be based in my Lok Sabha constituency, Wayanad that has been ravaged by floods. I will be visiting relief camps across Wayanad and reviewing relief measures with District and State officials," Gandhi tweeted, earlier in the day.

Operations at Cochin International Airport, which were suspended following heavy rains, resumed on Sunday.

Rescue operations are underway by the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), Army and the local police.&nbsp;

Congress leader and MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday visited a relief camp at Boodanam Church in Nilambur, Malappuram in Kerala and reviewed relief measures in the flood-ravaged district.

Congress leader and MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday visited a relief camp at Boodanam Church in Nilambur, Malappuram in Kerala and reviewed relief measures in the flood-ravaged district. Gandhi, who is a Member of Parliament (MP) from Wayanad, interacted with the flood victims with the help of local leaders. As many as 11 people have died in the district alone due to floods. Gandhi reached Kerala today for his two-day visit. "For the next few days, I will be based in my Lok Sabha constituency, Wayanad that has been ravaged by floods. I will be visiting relief camps across Wayanad and reviewing relief measures with District and State officials," Gandhi tweeted, earlier in the day. Operations at Cochin International Airport, which were suspended following heavy rains, resumed on Sunday. Rescue operations are underway by the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), Army and the local police.

Kerala: Rahul Gandhi visits relief camp in Nilambur

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-arrives-in-delhi-after-pakistan-announces-suspension-241637">cancellation of Samjhauta Express</a> between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side.

"In consequence to Pakistan's decision to cancel the Samjhauta Express 14607/14608 running between Lahore and Atari... the Samjhauta link Express train number 14001/14002 running between Delhi and Atari also stands cancelled," said Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Northern Railways.

The development comes after Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad on Saturday rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post.

"Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">Thar Express trains</a>," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters here.

The Samjhauta Express has been a bi-weekly train between Delhi via Attari border to Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Agreement between the two countries was signed in 1972.

The last time the operation of the Samjhauta Express was suspended was on February 28 following the Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killing 40 CRPF jawans on February 14. But it was resumed shortly thereafter.

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the cancellation of Samjhauta Express between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side.

Indian Railways on Sunday announced the cancellation of Samjhauta Express between Delhi and Atari following Pakistan's decision to suspend the train's operation on its side. "In consequence to Pakistan's decision to cancel the Samjhauta Express 14607/14608 running between Lahore and Atari... the Samjhauta link Express train number 14001/14002 running between Delhi and Atari also stands cancelled," said Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Northern Railways. The development comes after Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad on Saturday rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post. "Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters here. The Samjhauta Express has been a bi-weekly train between Delhi via Attari border to Lahore in Pakistan since 1976 after the Simla Agreement between the two countries was signed in 1972. The last time the operation of the Samjhauta Express was suspended was on February 28 following the Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killing 40 CRPF jawans on February 14. But it was resumed shortly thereafter.

India announces cancellation of Samjhauta Express to Pakistan

Giving a new ambience and aesthetics to the nation's biggest temple of democracy -- Parliament -- its exterior has been installed with permanent colourful lights ahead of the 73rd Independence Day celebrations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/my-upbringing-does-not-allow-me-to-take-a-life-pm-modi-to-bear-grylls-on-fighting-a-tiger-241981">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will inaugurate it at around 7:15 pm on Tuesday.

Lok Sabha Speaker, Vice Chairman of Rajya Sabha, cabinet minister and MPs will be present on the occasion.

These LED lights frequently change its colour making the Parliament House look more grandeur. Earlier, similar such light has been installed in South Block and North Block.

The LED lights used are environment-friendly and electricity saving lights. These lights are also installed in Parliament library and Parliament Annexure building.

In total 875 lights are installed for beautification.

The lighting installed in the Parliament House will be permanent.

Earlier, the Parliament House was decorated on special occasions such as on Independence Day, Republic Day and Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, but now it has been installed with permanent lights.

Giving a new ambience and aesthetics to the nation's biggest temple of democracy -- Parliament -- its exterior has been installed with permanent colourful lights ahead of the 73rd Independence Day celebrations.

Giving a new ambience and aesthetics to the nation's biggest temple of democracy -- Parliament -- its exterior has been installed with permanent colourful lights ahead of the 73rd Independence Day celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate it at around 7:15 pm on Tuesday. Lok Sabha Speaker, Vice Chairman of Rajya Sabha, cabinet minister and MPs will be present on the occasion. These LED lights frequently change its colour making the Parliament House look more grandeur. Earlier, similar such light has been installed in South Block and North Block. The LED lights used are environment-friendly and electricity saving lights. These lights are also installed in Parliament library and Parliament Annexure building. In total 875 lights are installed for beautification. The lighting installed in the Parliament House will be permanent. Earlier, the Parliament House was decorated on special occasions such as on Independence Day, Republic Day and Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, but now it has been installed with permanent lights.

PM Modi will inaugurate permanent lighting in Parliament House

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

"South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said.

The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies.

"To provide assistance in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rescue-and-relief-work-beefs-up-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-india-241982"> prevailing flood situation</a> in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said.

He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens".

The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states.

The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat.

"From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said.

The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people.

Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday. "South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said. The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies. "To provide assistance in the prevailing flood situation in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said. He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens". The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states. The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat. "From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said. The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people. Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

Air Force rescues 156 people from flood-affected areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Riya Gupta

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