Crude prices were little changed on Monday as traders weighed geopolitical risks against the impact of the Sino-US trade war on the global economy, although last week's better-than-expected US jobs data offered some support.

Brent crude futures were down 3 cents by 0300 GMT at $64.20. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was up 6 cents at $57.57 a barrel.

"A very cautious open this morning supported by a better than expected (non-farm payrolls)," said Stephen Innes, managing partner at Vanguard Markets in Bangkok. "Traders remain incredibly cautious about the dimmer global economic overhang."

Both oil benchmarks fell last week as concerns about a slowing global economy outweighed risks to supply. Brent fell more than 3% and WTI shed more than 1.5%.

US job growth rebounded strongly in June, with government payrolls surging, the Labour Department's closely watched employment report showed on Friday, suggesting May's sharp slowdown in hiring was probably a one-off.

Employers added 224,000 jobs last month, the most in five months, the report showed.

But the US-China trade war has dampened prospects of global economic growth and oil demand.

The lack of concrete progress in resolving the acrimonious trade war between the United States and China, however, means the bar could be very high for the US Federal Reserve not to lower borrowing costs at its July 30-31 policy meeting.

White House Economic advisor Larry Kudlow has confirmed top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week to continue trade talks.

Still, Japan's core machinery orders fell for the first time in four months in May, posing the biggest monthly drop in eight months in a worrying sign that global trade tensions are taking a toll on corporate investment.

Oil received some support from simmering tensions over Iran and after an extension last week to output cuts by OPEC and its allies.

Iran said on Sunday it will shortly boost its uranium enrichment above a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal, prompting a warning 'to be careful' from US President Donald Trump, who pulled out of the pact last year.

"Geopolitical risks remain plentiful, but the start of the week could see Iran worries ease," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA.

Meanwhile, US energy companies this week reduced the number of oil rigs operating for the first time in three weeks as drillers follow through on plans to cut spending this year.

Crude prices were little changed on Monday as traders weighed geopolitical risks against the impact of the Sino-US trade war on the global economy, although last week's better-than-expected US jobs data offered some support.

Crude prices were little changed on Monday as traders weighed geopolitical risks against the impact of the Sino-US trade war on the global economy, although last week's better-than-expected US jobs data offered some support. Brent crude futures were down 3 cents by 0300 GMT at $64.20. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was up 6 cents at $57.57 a barrel. "A very cautious open this morning supported by a better than expected (non-farm payrolls)," said Stephen Innes, managing partner at Vanguard Markets in Bangkok. "Traders remain incredibly cautious about the dimmer global economic overhang." Both oil benchmarks fell last week as concerns about a slowing global economy outweighed risks to supply. Brent fell more than 3% and WTI shed more than 1.5%. US job growth rebounded strongly in June, with government payrolls surging, the Labour Department's closely watched employment report showed on Friday, suggesting May's sharp slowdown in hiring was probably a one-off. Employers added 224,000 jobs last month, the most in five months, the report showed. But the US-China trade war has dampened prospects of global economic growth and oil demand. The lack of concrete progress in resolving the acrimonious trade war between the United States and China, however, means the bar could be very high for the US Federal Reserve not to lower borrowing costs at its July 30-31 policy meeting. White House Economic advisor Larry Kudlow has confirmed top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week to continue trade talks. Still, Japan's core machinery orders fell for the first time in four months in May, posing the biggest monthly drop in eight months in a worrying sign that global trade tensions are taking a toll on corporate investment. Oil received some support from simmering tensions over Iran and after an extension last week to output cuts by OPEC and its allies. Iran said on Sunday it will shortly boost its uranium enrichment above a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal, prompting a warning 'to be careful' from US President Donald Trump, who pulled out of the pact last year. "Geopolitical risks remain plentiful, but the start of the week could see Iran worries ease," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA. Meanwhile, US energy companies this week reduced the number of oil rigs operating for the first time in three weeks as drillers follow through on plans to cut spending this year.

Oil prices tread water as market eyes global risks

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

"Widespread rainfall to widespread with isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over northern plains. Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Jharkhand, Gujarat region, Coastal and South Interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep," said IMD.

The weather forecaster also said conditions are becoming favourable for further advance of Southwest Monsoon into remaining parts of Haryana, Punjab and some more parts of Rajasthan during the next 24 hours.

However, there will be no respite from the heat as maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to remain at 36 degree Celsius and 27 degree Celsius, respectively.

"No significant change in maximum temperatures likely over major parts of the country during next 4-5 days," the IMD stated.

Rainfall in the region will bring respite to locals, who have been reeling under severe heat wave conditions in the past few days, with temperatures in Delhi and surrounding regions constantly above 40 degrees Celsius.

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday. "Widespread rainfall to widespread with isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over northern plains. Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan. Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Jharkhand, Gujarat region, Coastal and South Interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep," said IMD. The weather forecaster also said conditions are becoming favourable for further advance of Southwest Monsoon into remaining parts of Haryana, Punjab and some more parts of Rajasthan during the next 24 hours. However, there will be no respite from the heat as maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to remain at 36 degree Celsius and 27 degree Celsius, respectively. "No significant change in maximum temperatures likely over major parts of the country during next 4-5 days," the IMD stated. Rainfall in the region will bring respite to locals, who have been reeling under severe heat wave conditions in the past few days, with temperatures in Delhi and surrounding regions constantly above 40 degrees Celsius.

Heavy rainfall expected in Delhi, NCR in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department

Asian shares fell on Monday after strong US jobs data tempered expectations for a Fed rate cut, while the Turkish lira hovered near two-week lows on worries about central bank independence.

Share sentiment was also dampened by US investment bank Morgan Stanley's decision to reduce its exposure to global equities due to misgivings about the ability of policy easings to offset weaker economic data.

Asian shares were broadly weaker on Monday, tracking Wall Street which fell from record highs last week.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan lost more than 1%, with every market in the red.

Japan's Nikkei faltered 0.9%. Chinese shares started lower with the blue-chip index off 1.7% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng index down 1.5%.

South Korea's KOSPI was off 1.8% and Australian shares slipped about 1% to a five-week low.

"We are lowering our exposure to global equities to the range we consider 'underweight'," Morgan Stanley's London-based strategist Andrew Sheets said in a note. The previous range was 'neutral'.

Expensive valuations and pressure on earnings were among the reasons for the downgrade, Sheets said, while the bank increased its exposure to emerging markets sovereign credit and safe haven Japanese Government Bonds.

Global equities have generally been bolstered by expectations that central banks will keep interest rates at or near record lows to boost economic growth.

Those expectations were tempered by a US labour report that showed nonfarm payrolls jumped 224,000 in June, beating forecasts for 160,000, in a sign the world's largest economy still had fire.

Given the strength shown in that data, investors now expect US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell to go slow on rate cuts this year.

Bets for aggressive Fed easings are already off, with the market now pricing 27 basis points easing this month, from 33 basis points prior to payrolls.

Powell will provide further cues on the near-term outlook for monetary policy this week at his semi-annual testimony to the US Congress.

There was some positive news on the protracted China-US trade war with White House Economic advisor Larry Kudlow confirming that top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week for trade talks.

"Whether the negotiators can find a solution to the difficult structural issues that remain between the two sides is another matter, and Kudlow cautioned there was 'no timeline' to reach an agreement," National Australia Bank strategist Rodrigo Catril said.

Currencies and geopolitics

In currency markets, action was in the Turkish lira which weakened to 5.8245 per dollar, the lowest since June 25 after Turkey's central bank governor Murat Cetinkaya, whose four-year term was due to run until 2020, was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal.

President Tayyip Erdogan sacked Cetinkaya for refusing the government's repeated demands for rate cuts, raising questions about central bank independence.

The lira pared some of its losses to last hold near 5.7575.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, was a shade weaker at 97.239 after climbing to a 2-1/2 week top of 97.443 on Friday.

The euro was flat at $1.1226, not far from a 2-1/2-week low of $1.1205 touched on Friday.

The Australian dollar, which has been on an uptrend since June 18, slipped below 70 US cents to last trade at $0.6985.

Geopolitics may be in focus this week following news on Sunday that Iran will boost its uranium enrichment, in breach of a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal.

"So far US-Iran tensions have not had a material impact on markets, but if tensions escalate it could be a different story," said NAB's Catril.

In commodity markets, oil prices rose with Brent crude futures, the international benchmark for oil prices, up 16 cents at $64.39 per barrel while US crude added 22 cents to $57.73.

Spot gold fell 0.1% to $1,398.33 an ounce.

Asian shares fell on Monday after strong US jobs data tempered expectations for a Fed rate cut, while the Turkish lira hovered near two-week lows on worries about central bank independence.

Asian shares fell on Monday after strong US jobs data tempered expectations for a Fed rate cut, while the Turkish lira hovered near two-week lows on worries about central bank independence. Share sentiment was also dampened by US investment bank Morgan Stanley's decision to reduce its exposure to global equities due to misgivings about the ability of policy easings to offset weaker economic data. Asian shares were broadly weaker on Monday, tracking Wall Street which fell from record highs last week. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan lost more than 1%, with every market in the red. Japan's Nikkei faltered 0.9%. Chinese shares started lower with the blue-chip index off 1.7% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng index down 1.5%. South Korea's KOSPI was off 1.8% and Australian shares slipped about 1% to a five-week low. "We are lowering our exposure to global equities to the range we consider 'underweight'," Morgan Stanley's London-based strategist Andrew Sheets said in a note. The previous range was 'neutral'. Expensive valuations and pressure on earnings were among the reasons for the downgrade, Sheets said, while the bank increased its exposure to emerging markets sovereign credit and safe haven Japanese Government Bonds. Global equities have generally been bolstered by expectations that central banks will keep interest rates at or near record lows to boost economic growth. Those expectations were tempered by a US labour report that showed nonfarm payrolls jumped 224,000 in June, beating forecasts for 160,000, in a sign the world's largest economy still had fire. Given the strength shown in that data, investors now expect US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell to go slow on rate cuts this year. Bets for aggressive Fed easings are already off, with the market now pricing 27 basis points easing this month, from 33 basis points prior to payrolls. Powell will provide further cues on the near-term outlook for monetary policy this week at his semi-annual testimony to the US Congress. There was some positive news on the protracted China-US trade war with White House Economic advisor Larry Kudlow confirming that top representatives from the United States and China will meet in the coming week for trade talks. "Whether the negotiators can find a solution to the difficult structural issues that remain between the two sides is another matter, and Kudlow cautioned there was 'no timeline' to reach an agreement," National Australia Bank strategist Rodrigo Catril said. Currencies and geopolitics In currency markets, action was in the Turkish lira which weakened to 5.8245 per dollar, the lowest since June 25 after Turkey's central bank governor Murat Cetinkaya, whose four-year term was due to run until 2020, was replaced by his deputy Murat Uysal. President Tayyip Erdogan sacked Cetinkaya for refusing the government's repeated demands for rate cuts, raising questions about central bank independence. The lira pared some of its losses to last hold near 5.7575. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, was a shade weaker at 97.239 after climbing to a 2-1/2 week top of 97.443 on Friday. The euro was flat at $1.1226, not far from a 2-1/2-week low of $1.1205 touched on Friday. The Australian dollar, which has been on an uptrend since June 18, slipped below 70 US cents to last trade at $0.6985. Geopolitics may be in focus this week following news on Sunday that Iran will boost its uranium enrichment, in breach of a cap set by a landmark 2015 nuclear deal. "So far US-Iran tensions have not had a material impact on markets, but if tensions escalate it could be a different story," said NAB's Catril. In commodity markets, oil prices rose with Brent crude futures, the international benchmark for oil prices, up 16 cents at $64.39 per barrel while US crude added 22 cents to $57.73. Spot gold fell 0.1% to $1,398.33 an ounce.

Asian shares fall as bets off on sharp US rate cuts

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in India on Sunday evening on a three-day visit.

During his visit, Nahyan is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his Indian counterpart and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the talks will provide an opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership.

The UAE is India's third-largest trade partner and fourth-largest energy supplier. It is also the first country to participate in India's ''Strategic petroleum Reserves'' programme.

As the chair of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the UAE had invited India as the ''Guest of Honour'' at the 46th Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of OIC in Abu Dhabi in March this year.

(With inputs from ANI)

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in India on Sunday evening on a three-day visit. During his visit, Nahyan is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his Indian counterpart and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in India on Sunday evening on a three-day visit. During his visit, Nahyan is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his Indian counterpart and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the talks will provide an opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership. The UAE is India's third-largest trade partner and fourth-largest energy supplier. It is also the first country to participate in India's ''Strategic petroleum Reserves'' programme. As the chair of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the UAE had invited India as the ''Guest of Honour'' at the 46th Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of OIC in Abu Dhabi in March this year. (With inputs from ANI)

UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al arrives in India on three-day visit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-norway-mediation-will-resume-talks-with-maduro-government-in-barbados-guaido-233875">In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido</a>

Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-better-be-careful-warns-trump-on-breaching-uranium-enrichment-cap-233859">Iran better be careful, warns Trump on breaching uranium enrichment cap</a>

US President Donald Trump warned Iran over its imminent breach of a uranium enrichment cap.

"Iran better be careful, because you enrich for one reason, and I won't tell you what that reason is. But it's no good. They better be careful," he told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riot-police-baton-charge-protesters-in-hong-kong-233863">Riot police baton-charge protesters in Hong Kong</a>

Fresh political violence broke out in Hong Kong on Sunday night as riot police baton-charged anti-government protesters seeking to keep the pressure up on the city's pro-Beijing leaders, after a mass rally outside a train station linking the finance hub to mainland China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-the-press-to-go-and-see-migrant-detention-centres-trump-233876">I want the press to go and see migrant detention centres: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said migrant detention centers that have come under criticism for overcrowding and poor conditions will be opened to visits by journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-lifts-up-their-ninth-copa-america-trophy-after-defeating-peru-233851">Brazil outlast Peru to lift ninth Copa America Cup</a>

Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday.

Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out.

In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out. Iran better be careful, warns Trump on breaching uranium enrichment cap US President Donald Trump warned Iran over its imminent breach of a uranium enrichment cap. "Iran better be careful, because you enrich for one reason, and I won't tell you what that reason is. But it's no good. They better be careful," he told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey. Riot police baton-charge protesters in Hong Kong Fresh political violence broke out in Hong Kong on Sunday night as riot police baton-charged anti-government protesters seeking to keep the pressure up on the city's pro-Beijing leaders, after a mass rally outside a train station linking the finance hub to mainland China. I want the press to go and see migrant detention centres: Trump US President Donald Trump on Sunday said migrant detention centers that have come under criticism for overcrowding and poor conditions will be opened to visits by journalists. Brazil outlast Peru to lift ninth Copa America Cup Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday. Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Three suspects, including a lecturer from Kabul University, was arrested by Afghan forces on Sunday over charges of having suspected links with the Islamic State (ISIS) and plotting terror attacks in the Afghan capital.

In a statement, the National Directorate of Security (NDS), Afghanistan's intelligence agency, said that Mubashir Muslimyar, the professor, allegedly enticed students to join the ISIS, TOLOnews reported.

The three accused persons are being held on charges of plotting terror attacks in Kabul in recent times.

"Attack on a wrestling club, Maiwand Gym, in the west of Kabul on September 5, 2018, in which at least 21 people were killed, attack on a bus carrying the employees of the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission in Kabul on June 4, which left five people dead, and an attack on Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul this year, the NDS statement said.

The suspects have confessed that they were motivated by three lectures at Kabul University to join the dreaded terror group and carry out attacks, the investigative agency said.

Three suspects, including a lecturer from Kabul University, was arrested by Afghan forces on Sunday over charges of having suspected links with the Islamic State (ISIS) and plotting terror attacks in the Afghan capital.

Three suspects, including a lecturer from Kabul University, was arrested by Afghan forces on Sunday over charges of having suspected links with the Islamic State (ISIS) and plotting terror attacks in the Afghan capital. In a statement, the National Directorate of Security (NDS), Afghanistan's intelligence agency, said that Mubashir Muslimyar, the professor, allegedly enticed students to join the ISIS, TOLOnews reported. The three accused persons are being held on charges of plotting terror attacks in Kabul in recent times. "Attack on a wrestling club, Maiwand Gym, in the west of Kabul on September 5, 2018, in which at least 21 people were killed, attack on a bus carrying the employees of the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission in Kabul on June 4, which left five people dead, and an attack on Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul this year, the NDS statement said. The suspects have confessed that they were motivated by three lectures at Kabul University to join the dreaded terror group and carry out attacks, the investigative agency said.

Afghanistan: University professor held for suspected links with Islamic State, plotting terror attacks

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shahs-push-for-digital-membership-made-bjp-worlds-largest-party-jp-nadda-233554">JP Nadda</a> urged the party members to make BJP a 22- crore member party.

Nadda said this during a meeting with office-bearers held on Sunday.

The sources in BJP said that ''We are currently 11 crore, we are expecting 11 crore more.

General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav, Arun Singh and Murlidhar Rao were also present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Nadda commended the digital push given by party president and home minister Amit Shah for making BJP the world's largest party.

"Amit Shah had launched the membership drive through digital medium around five years back in August 2014. BJP became the biggest party in the world by adding several members to its ranks in the preceding years. The party has become stronger in 8, 63, 971 booths in the country after the digital membership drive was given a push five years back," Nadda said.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president JP Nadda urged the party members to make BJP a 22- crore member party. Nadda said this during a meeting with office-bearers held on Sunday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working president JP Nadda urged the party members to make BJP a 22- crore member party. Nadda said this during a meeting with office-bearers held on Sunday. The sources in BJP said that ''We are currently 11 crore, we are expecting 11 crore more. General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav, Arun Singh and Murlidhar Rao were also present at the meeting. Meanwhile, Nadda commended the digital push given by party president and home minister Amit Shah for making BJP the world's largest party. "Amit Shah had launched the membership drive through digital medium around five years back in August 2014. BJP became the biggest party in the world by adding several members to its ranks in the preceding years. The party has become stronger in 8, 63, 971 booths in the country after the digital membership drive was given a push five years back," Nadda said.

JP Nadda urges members to make BJP '22 crore member party'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-it-gives-wings-to-farmers-youngsters-women-home-minister-amit-shah-233399">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> will be visiting Telangana 'at least once in a month from August or September' to review several party operations. Two Union Ministers will also visit the state every month.

"During the core committee meeting, Amit Shah directed us to target Telangana and approach people over here and achieve 18 lakh BJP memberships till January. He also ensured that two Union Ministers will visit every district in Telangana to review the party situation and try to strengthen the party right from the village level," BJP president Dr Laxman told ANI.

He further added, "Amit Shah will be visiting Telangana at least once a month, starting from August or September.

Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government is not implementing the Centre welfare schemes for the poor section of the state. The BJP workers will be interacting with the villagers in Telangana and make sure that these schemes are being implemented properly; this will be monitored by the&nbsp; 
Union Ministers, as told by Laxman.

"Whenever Amit Shah visits Telangana, Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao tweets absurd tweets about him. He even copied the water project idea from Gujarat state and presented it as a new water project idea in Telangana, naming it as Mission Bhagiratha," he added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be visiting Telangana 'at least once in a month from August or September' to review several party operations. Two Union Ministers will also visit the state every month.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be visiting Telangana 'at least once in a month from August or September' to review several party operations. Two Union Ministers will also visit the state every month. "During the core committee meeting, Amit Shah directed us to target Telangana and approach people over here and achieve 18 lakh BJP memberships till January. He also ensured that two Union Ministers will visit every district in Telangana to review the party situation and try to strengthen the party right from the village level," BJP president Dr Laxman told ANI. He further added, "Amit Shah will be visiting Telangana at least once a month, starting from August or September. Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government is not implementing the Centre welfare schemes for the poor section of the state. The BJP workers will be interacting with the villagers in Telangana and make sure that these schemes are being implemented properly; this will be monitored by the Union Ministers, as told by Laxman. "Whenever Amit Shah visits Telangana, Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao tweets absurd tweets about him. He even copied the water project idea from Gujarat state and presented it as a new water project idea in Telangana, naming it as Mission Bhagiratha," he added.

Home Minister Amit Shah to visit Telangana once a month to review party operations

Intelligence inputs have revealed that Pakistan-based terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have joined hands with Afghan insurgent groups like Haqqani Network and Afghan Taliban after the launch of Balakot air strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26.

It is indicated that these terror groups are shifting their base in Afghanistan near the international border in areas including Kandahar and Kunar.

The IAF jets attacked JeM's terror camp in Balakot after the February 14 attack by a suicide bomber on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources reveal that Pakistan-based terror outfits are shifting their base across the border in Afghanistan to avoid blacklisting of Pakistan by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) later this year.

Pakistan remains on the grey list of FATF, a global terror financing watchdog which has asked Islamabad to take steps to curb money laundering and terror financing.

India wanted Pakistan to be placed on the blacklist, a move that would negatively impact Pakistan's economy.

After facing intense international pressure, the Pakistan-based terror outfits are hiding in safe havens in Taliban-dominated areas in Afghanistan. They are even posing a threat to the Indian diplomatic establishments, including the Indian Embassy in Kabul.

Intelligence sources reveal that the Indian consulate in Kandahar has been kept on high alert against a Taliban attack.

The revelation about JeM and LeT treats in Afghanistan came after the arrest of Jaish terrorists Sediq Akbar and Ataullah by Afghan National Security Force from Jalalabad earlier this year.

Sources also reveal that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-hails-masood-azhars-designation-as-global-terrorist-a-notable-achievement-220333">JeM chief Masood Azhar</a> was offered shelter in Afghanistan by the Haqqani Network earlier this year. However, Masood feels safe under the protection of Pakistan Army in Bahawalpur.

A Pentagon report earlier this year revealed that the US considers LeT as one of the greatest threats to Washington and its allied forces in war-torn Afghanistan, where at least 300 fighters from the terror group are active.

Responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, the LeT is designated as a global terror organisation by the US and the UN.

The report said that among the 20 prominent terrorist organisations active in Afghanistan, LeT ranks fifth in terms of fighters along with al-Qaeda and Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.

The rising footprint of JeM will pose more threats to people and security agencies in Afghanistan.

Intelligence inputs have revealed that Pakistan-based terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have joined hands with Afghan insurgent groups like Haqqani Network and Afghan Taliban after the launch of Balakot air strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26.

Intelligence inputs have revealed that Pakistan-based terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have joined hands with Afghan insurgent groups like Haqqani Network and Afghan Taliban after the launch of Balakot air strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26. It is indicated that these terror groups are shifting their base in Afghanistan near the international border in areas including Kandahar and Kunar. The IAF jets attacked JeM's terror camp in Balakot after the February 14 attack by a suicide bomber on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. Sources reveal that Pakistan-based terror outfits are shifting their base across the border in Afghanistan to avoid blacklisting of Pakistan by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) later this year. Pakistan remains on the grey list of FATF, a global terror financing watchdog which has asked Islamabad to take steps to curb money laundering and terror financing. India wanted Pakistan to be placed on the blacklist, a move that would negatively impact Pakistan's economy. After facing intense international pressure, the Pakistan-based terror outfits are hiding in safe havens in Taliban-dominated areas in Afghanistan. They are even posing a threat to the Indian diplomatic establishments, including the Indian Embassy in Kabul. Intelligence sources reveal that the Indian consulate in Kandahar has been kept on high alert against a Taliban attack. The revelation about JeM and LeT treats in Afghanistan came after the arrest of Jaish terrorists Sediq Akbar and Ataullah by Afghan National Security Force from Jalalabad earlier this year. Sources also reveal that JeM chief Masood Azhar was offered shelter in Afghanistan by the Haqqani Network earlier this year. However, Masood feels safe under the protection of Pakistan Army in Bahawalpur. A Pentagon report earlier this year revealed that the US considers LeT as one of the greatest threats to Washington and its allied forces in war-torn Afghanistan, where at least 300 fighters from the terror group are active. Responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, the LeT is designated as a global terror organisation by the US and the UN. The report said that among the 20 prominent terrorist organisations active in Afghanistan, LeT ranks fifth in terms of fighters along with al-Qaeda and Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. The rising footprint of JeM will pose more threats to people and security agencies in Afghanistan.

Pakistan-based terrorists joining hands with Afghan outfits after Balakot strike: Sources

Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday.

Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

A last minute penalty from substitute <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-slams-brazil-fix-after-copa-red-card-233729">Richarlison sealed a win for Brazil</a> which handed the South American giants their ninth Copa triumph and first since 2007.

Jesus's evening went sour 20 minutes from time as he was sent off for a second booking.

The Manchester City striker was in tears as he left the field, making obscene hand gestures, angrily kicking a water bottle and almost knocking over the VAR booth.

Brazil's players rallied after the dismissal however to claim a battling victory.

"It's really special because we built something together," enthused captain Dani Alves.

Earlier, after a minute's silence was held for bossa nova legend Joao Gilberto -- who died on Saturday -- underdogs Peru made a confident start and didn't appear overawed by either their opponents or the occasion.

But it quickly became apparent that they were up against more accomplished players.

"It was a game in which they took advantage of our mistakes and turned them all into goals," said Peru's Edison Flores.

Peru coach Ricardo Gareca had said on Saturday they needed to prevent Brazil from dominating possession, but that was easier said than done.

Individual brilliance

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-reach-semi-final-with-shootout-win-over-paraguay-231055">Brazil started to stroke</a> the ball around commandingly, and as they did that, they looked dangerous.

Their opening goal came from a piece of individual brilliance by Jesus, whose drag back fooled two defenders, creating space for him to cross for the unmarked Everton to drill home at the back post on the quarter hour.

Brazil were in control and playing like champions elect as Roberto Firmino found space on the left and crossed for Philippe Coutinho to stab wide.

Left-winger Everton was clever with his movement in dragging the athletic right-back Luis Advincula out of position and Brazil's left-back Alex Sandro found acres of space to put in a deep cross that Firmino headed over.

Just as it looked as if Brazil would stroll to victory, Peru went on the attack and a Christian Cueva cross hit the arm of a sliding Thiago Silva, giving Peru a penalty that was confirmed after a VAR review.

Guerrero sent goalkeeper Alisson the wrong way from 12 yards and Peru were back in it just before half-time.

But they paid for their lack of guile and experience with almost the last kick of the half as Arthur was allowed to drive at the defence from midfield following a slip from Renato Tapia that left him space to attack.

Center-back Carlos Zambano also slipped, allowing Arthur to feed Jesus in the middle of the area and the Manchester City striker made no mistake, finding the bottom corner.

Changed dynamic

Brazil had a few speculative shots at the start of the second half but Silva, Dani Alves and Coutinho all failed to hit the target.

After some wing trickery from Everton, Alex Sandro crossed but Firmino headed wide.

Brazil were in complete control at this stage as Peru could hardly string two passes together.

But the dynamic changed 20 minutes from time as Jesus was given his marching orders for a second yellow card after a late challenge on Cueva.

The onus was now on Peru to attack and Miguel Trauco brought a near post save out of Alisson while Edison Flores fizzed a volley from outside the area just wide.

But amidst a flurry of substitutions, fouls and injury stoppages, the steam went out of Peru's efforts and they were unable to exert any sustained pressure on the hosts.

Any hopes they had were extinguished when Zambrano was adjudged to have barged over Everton in the penalty area and substitute Richarlison drilled home the spot-kick into the bottom corner.

Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday. Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday. Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium. A last minute penalty from substitute Richarlison sealed a win for Brazil which handed the South American giants their ninth Copa triumph and first since 2007. Jesus's evening went sour 20 minutes from time as he was sent off for a second booking. The Manchester City striker was in tears as he left the field, making obscene hand gestures, angrily kicking a water bottle and almost knocking over the VAR booth. Brazil's players rallied after the dismissal however to claim a battling victory. "It's really special because we built something together," enthused captain Dani Alves. Earlier, after a minute's silence was held for bossa nova legend Joao Gilberto -- who died on Saturday -- underdogs Peru made a confident start and didn't appear overawed by either their opponents or the occasion. But it quickly became apparent that they were up against more accomplished players. "It was a game in which they took advantage of our mistakes and turned them all into goals," said Peru's Edison Flores. Peru coach Ricardo Gareca had said on Saturday they needed to prevent Brazil from dominating possession, but that was easier said than done. Individual brilliance Brazil started to stroke the ball around commandingly, and as they did that, they looked dangerous. Their opening goal came from a piece of individual brilliance by Jesus, whose drag back fooled two defenders, creating space for him to cross for the unmarked Everton to drill home at the back post on the quarter hour. Brazil were in control and playing like champions elect as Roberto Firmino found space on the left and crossed for Philippe Coutinho to stab wide. Left-winger Everton was clever with his movement in dragging the athletic right-back Luis Advincula out of position and Brazil's left-back Alex Sandro found acres of space to put in a deep cross that Firmino headed over. Just as it looked as if Brazil would stroll to victory, Peru went on the attack and a Christian Cueva cross hit the arm of a sliding Thiago Silva, giving Peru a penalty that was confirmed after a VAR review. Guerrero sent goalkeeper Alisson the wrong way from 12 yards and Peru were back in it just before half-time. But they paid for their lack of guile and experience with almost the last kick of the half as Arthur was allowed to drive at the defence from midfield following a slip from Renato Tapia that left him space to attack. Center-back Carlos Zambano also slipped, allowing Arthur to feed Jesus in the middle of the area and the Manchester City striker made no mistake, finding the bottom corner. Changed dynamic Brazil had a few speculative shots at the start of the second half but Silva, Dani Alves and Coutinho all failed to hit the target. After some wing trickery from Everton, Alex Sandro crossed but Firmino headed wide. Brazil were in complete control at this stage as Peru could hardly string two passes together. But the dynamic changed 20 minutes from time as Jesus was given his marching orders for a second yellow card after a late challenge on Cueva. The onus was now on Peru to attack and Miguel Trauco brought a near post save out of Alisson while Edison Flores fizzed a volley from outside the area just wide. But amidst a flurry of substitutions, fouls and injury stoppages, the steam went out of Peru's efforts and they were unable to exert any sustained pressure on the hosts. Any hopes they had were extinguished when Zambrano was adjudged to have barged over Everton in the penalty area and substitute Richarlison drilled home the spot-kick into the bottom corner.

Brazil outlast Peru to lift ninth Copa America Cup

Indonesia was hit by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/69-magnitude-quake-strikes-off-indonesia-tsunami-warning-issued-233827">powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake on Sunday</a>, the US Geological Survey reported, which triggered a tsunami warning for coastal communities nearby.

However, that warning was later lifted by Indonesia's geophysics agency.

There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

The quake struck at a depth of 24 kilometres in the Molucca Sea, 185 kilometres southeast of Manado, between Sulawesi and Maluku islands.

Indonesia is one of the most disaster-hit nations on Earth due to its position straddling the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates collide.

It has been hit by a string of deadly quakes including a devastating 2004 tremor measuring 9.1 magnitude that struck off the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that killed 220,000 throughout the region, including 168,000 in Indonesia.&nbsp;

The Boxing Day disaster was the world's third-biggest quake since 1900, and lifted the ocean floor in some places by 15 metres.

Indonesia was hit by a powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake on Sunday, the US Geological Survey reported, which triggered a tsunami warning for coastal communities nearby.

Indonesia was hit by a powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake on Sunday, the US Geological Survey reported, which triggered a tsunami warning for coastal communities nearby. However, that warning was later lifted by Indonesia's geophysics agency. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. The quake struck at a depth of 24 kilometres in the Molucca Sea, 185 kilometres southeast of Manado, between Sulawesi and Maluku islands. Indonesia is one of the most disaster-hit nations on Earth due to its position straddling the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates collide. It has been hit by a string of deadly quakes including a devastating 2004 tremor measuring 9.1 magnitude that struck off the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that killed 220,000 throughout the region, including 168,000 in Indonesia. The Boxing Day disaster was the world's third-biggest quake since 1900, and lifted the ocean floor in some places by 15 metres.

Indonesia lifts tsunami warning after strong earthquake

US President Donald Trump hit back on Sunday and the UK launched an inquiry after leaked memos revealed Britain's ambassador in the US had described the president and his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-top-envoy-in-us-says-trump-executive-inept-report-233737">White House as "inept" and "uniquely dysfunctional"</a>.

Trump said Ambassador Kim Darroch had "not served the UK well" and that he and his administration were "not big fans" of the envoy.

Darroch had said Trump's presidency could "crash and burn" and "end in disgrace", according to a cache of secret cables and briefing notes sent back to Britain seen by the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

"We don't really believe this administration is going to become substantially more normal; less dysfunctional; less unpredictable; less faction-riven; less diplomatically clumsy and inept," Darroch allegedly wrote in one dispatch.

The paper said the most damning comments by Darroch described Trump, who was received by Queen Elizabeth II during a state visit to Britain just last month, as "insecure" and "incompetent".

A memo sent following the controversial visit said the president and his team had been "dazzled" by the visit but warned Britain might not remain "flavour of the month" because "this is still the land of America First".

He reportedly wrote that the "vicious infighting and chaos" inside the White House -- widely reported in the US but dismissed by Trump as "fake news" -- was "mostly true".

Asked about the leak, Trump told reporters in the US: "The ambassador has not served the UK well, I can tell you that.

"We are not big fans of that man and he has not served the UK well. So I can understand it, and I can say things about him but I won't bother."

The UK foreign ministry said it would carry out a formal investigation into the leak.

Jeremy Hunt, the foreign minister, distanced himself from Darroch's remarks, saying: "It's really important to say that the ambassador was doing his job as an ambassador which is to give frank reports and personal opinions about what's happening in the country where he works, and that's his job to send back those reports but they are personal opinions, not the opinions of the British Government, not my opinion.

"And we continue to think that under President Trump the United States administration is both highly effective and the best possible friend of Britain on the international stage."

From 2017 to now

Darroch is one of Britain's most experienced diplomats whose posting in Washington began in January, 2016, prior to Trump winning the presidency.

The Mail on Sunday said the memos, likely leaked by someone within Britain's sprawling civil service, cover a period beginning in 2017.

In one of the most recent reported dispatches filed on June 22, Darroch criticised Trump's fraught foreign policy on Iran, which has prompted fears in global capitals of a military conflict, as "incoherent" and "chaotic".

He allegedly said the president's assertion that he called off retaliatory missile strikes against the Iranian regime after a US drone was shot down because it risked killing 150 Iranians, "doesn't stand up".

"It's more likely that he was never fully on board and that he was worried about how this apparent reversal of his 2016 campaign promises would look come 2020," Darroch reportedly stated, referring to the next presidential election.

Britain's Foreign Office did not dispute the veracity of the memos.

"The British public would expect our ambassadors to provide ministers with an honest, unvarnished assessment of the politics in their country," a spokeswoman said.&nbsp;

"Their views are not necessarily the views of ministers or indeed the government," she added, noting "we pay them to be candid".&nbsp;

"Our team in Washington have strong relations with the White House and no doubt that these will withstand such mischievous behaviour," the spokeswoman said of the potential fallout from the leak.

US President Donald Trump hit back on Sunday and the UK launched an inquiry after leaked memos revealed Britain's ambassador in the US had described the president and his White House as "inept" and "uniquely dysfunctional".

US President Donald Trump hit back on Sunday and the UK launched an inquiry after leaked memos revealed Britain's ambassador in the US had described the president and his White House as "inept" and "uniquely dysfunctional". Trump said Ambassador Kim Darroch had "not served the UK well" and that he and his administration were "not big fans" of the envoy. Darroch had said Trump's presidency could "crash and burn" and "end in disgrace", according to a cache of secret cables and briefing notes sent back to Britain seen by the Mail on Sunday newspaper. "We don't really believe this administration is going to become substantially more normal; less dysfunctional; less unpredictable; less faction-riven; less diplomatically clumsy and inept," Darroch allegedly wrote in one dispatch. The paper said the most damning comments by Darroch described Trump, who was received by Queen Elizabeth II during a state visit to Britain just last month, as "insecure" and "incompetent". A memo sent following the controversial visit said the president and his team had been "dazzled" by the visit but warned Britain might not remain "flavour of the month" because "this is still the land of America First". He reportedly wrote that the "vicious infighting and chaos" inside the White House -- widely reported in the US but dismissed by Trump as "fake news" -- was "mostly true". Asked about the leak, Trump told reporters in the US: "The ambassador has not served the UK well, I can tell you that. "We are not big fans of that man and he has not served the UK well. So I can understand it, and I can say things about him but I won't bother." The UK foreign ministry said it would carry out a formal investigation into the leak. Jeremy Hunt, the foreign minister, distanced himself from Darroch's remarks, saying: "It's really important to say that the ambassador was doing his job as an ambassador which is to give frank reports and personal opinions about what's happening in the country where he works, and that's his job to send back those reports but they are personal opinions, not the opinions of the British Government, not my opinion. "And we continue to think that under President Trump the United States administration is both highly effective and the best possible friend of Britain on the international stage." From 2017 to now Darroch is one of Britain's most experienced diplomats whose posting in Washington began in January, 2016, prior to Trump winning the presidency. The Mail on Sunday said the memos, likely leaked by someone within Britain's sprawling civil service, cover a period beginning in 2017. In one of the most recent reported dispatches filed on June 22, Darroch criticised Trump's fraught foreign policy on Iran, which has prompted fears in global capitals of a military conflict, as "incoherent" and "chaotic". He allegedly said the president's assertion that he called off retaliatory missile strikes against the Iranian regime after a US drone was shot down because it risked killing 150 Iranians, "doesn't stand up". "It's more likely that he was never fully on board and that he was worried about how this apparent reversal of his 2016 campaign promises would look come 2020," Darroch reportedly stated, referring to the next presidential election. Britain's Foreign Office did not dispute the veracity of the memos. "The British public would expect our ambassadors to provide ministers with an honest, unvarnished assessment of the politics in their country," a spokeswoman said. "Their views are not necessarily the views of ministers or indeed the government," she added, noting "we pay them to be candid". "Our team in Washington have strong relations with the White House and no doubt that these will withstand such mischievous behaviour," the spokeswoman said of the potential fallout from the leak.

Trump hits back at Britain's ambassador in US, says 'not served the UK well'

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Riya Gupta

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