The Home Ministry has said that it has received no letter from Congress regarding the alleged breach in security of its president Rahul Gandhi's security in Amethi on Wednesday. "However, as soon as MHA's attention was drawn to reports that there was an incident of 'green light' being pointed at him yesterday in Amethi, the Director (SPG) was asked to verify the factual position," the Home Ministry spokesperson said today.

"Director (SPG) has informed the MHA that they have gone through the video clipping of the incident very closely. The 'green light' shown in the clipping was found to be that of a mobile phone used by the AICC photographer, who was videographing the impromptu press interaction of Rahul Gandhi near the collectorate at Amethi," the spokesperson further said adding that there was no security implication whatsoever.

News agency ANI tweeted a letter from the Congress party which it said was sent to Home Minister Rajnath Singh citing a breach in security of Rahul Gandhi when he was in Amethi to file nomination on Wednesday.

"Today (Wednesday), Congress president, Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination from Amethi parliamentary constituency. Post that nomination, he addressed the media. A perusal of his interaction will reflect that a laser was pointed at his head, on at least 7 separate occasions," the Congress said in its letter about party's roadshow in Amethi.

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Congress wrote to Home Minister over breach in security of its president Rahul Gandhi y'day; says Gandhi was addressing media after filing nomination from Amethi, "a persual of his interaction will reflect that a laser was pointed at his head, on at least 7 separate occasions" <a href="https://t.co/f3Jmnjhzs5">pic.twitter.com/f3Jmnjhzs5</a>
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We reiterate and again request you to initiate immediate action in the matter to investigate and neutralise the threat, if any, the party further said in the letter. It was signed by Ahmed Patel, Jairam Ramesh and Randeep Singh Surjewala.

Rahul on Wednesday filed his nomination for the Amethi Lok Sabha seat. The three-time Amethi MP was accompanied by UPA chairperson and mother Sonia Gandhi, sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and brother-in-law Robert Vadra as he filed his papers.

The Gandhis and other party leaders travelled three kilometres in an open vehicle, and were showered with rose petals and marigold flowers.

Less than a week ago, the Congress president had filed his papers from a second constituency - Wayanad in Kerala - prompting the BJP to accuse Rahul of "fleeing" from home turf Amethi.

Rahul Gandhi is expected to face a tough fight in Amethi from Union Minister and BJP nominee Smriti Irani.

In 2014, he defeated her by a reduced margin of about one lakh votes, and the BJP leader has been nursing the constituency since then.

Amethi goes to polls on May 6 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. It is virtually a Gandhi versus Irani fight as the SP-BSP-RLD opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh has decided not to field a candidate on the seat.

The Home Ministry has said that it has received no letter from Congress regarding the alleged breach in security of its president Rahul Gandhi's security in Amethi on Wednesday.

The Home Ministry has said that it has received no letter from Congress regarding the alleged breach in security of its president Rahul Gandhi's security in Amethi on Wednesday. "However, as soon as MHA's attention was drawn to reports that there was an incident of 'green light' being pointed at him yesterday in Amethi, the Director (SPG) was asked to verify the factual position," the Home Ministry spokesperson said today. "Director (SPG) has informed the MHA that they have gone through the video clipping of the incident very closely. The 'green light' shown in the clipping was found to be that of a mobile phone used by the AICC photographer, who was videographing the impromptu press interaction of Rahul Gandhi near the collectorate at Amethi," the spokesperson further said adding that there was no security implication whatsoever. News agency ANI tweeted a letter from the Congress party which it said was sent to Home Minister Rajnath Singh citing a breach in security of Rahul Gandhi when he was in Amethi to file nomination on Wednesday. "Today (Wednesday), Congress president, Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination from Amethi parliamentary constituency. Post that nomination, he addressed the media. A perusal of his interaction will reflect that a laser was pointed at his head, on at least 7 separate occasions," the Congress said in its letter about party's roadshow in Amethi. Congress wrote to Home Minister over breach in security of its president Rahul Gandhi y'day; says Gandhi was addressing media after filing nomination from Amethi, "a persual of his interaction will reflect that a laser was pointed at his head, on at least 7 separate occasions" pic.twitter.com/f3Jmnjhzs5 — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2019 × We reiterate and again request you to initiate immediate action in the matter to investigate and neutralise the threat, if any, the party further said in the letter. It was signed by Ahmed Patel, Jairam Ramesh and Randeep Singh Surjewala. Rahul on Wednesday filed his nomination for the Amethi Lok Sabha seat. The three-time Amethi MP was accompanied by UPA chairperson and mother Sonia Gandhi, sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and brother-in-law Robert Vadra as he filed his papers. The Gandhis and other party leaders travelled three kilometres in an open vehicle, and were showered with rose petals and marigold flowers. Less than a week ago, the Congress president had filed his papers from a second constituency - Wayanad in Kerala - prompting the BJP to accuse Rahul of "fleeing" from home turf Amethi. Rahul Gandhi is expected to face a tough fight in Amethi from Union Minister and BJP nominee Smriti Irani. In 2014, he defeated her by a reduced margin of about one lakh votes, and the BJP leader has been nursing the constituency since then. Amethi goes to polls on May 6 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. It is virtually a Gandhi versus Irani fight as the SP-BSP-RLD opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh has decided not to field a candidate on the seat.

Congress claims laser pointed at Rahul Gandhi's head, MHA says it was mobile's green light

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping.

IORA, a group of 22 countries who share their shores with Indian ocean, are keen to understand the geopolitical construct that has the backing of New Delhi and Washington and is increasingly gaining currency in the region.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION in Pretoria, Antoinette Rademan, director of IORA at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of South African foreign ministry said, "There was a request...for members to discuss it. This is taking place this week in a geostrategic workshop."

Adding, "We have to take cognisance of developments such as the Indo-pacific concept for which we have a workshop."

Delhi and Washington consider themselves as the bookends of the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year even changed the name of its largest naval command, US Pacific command, to 'Indo-Pacific Command'&nbsp;to give a boost to the growing concept.

China is deeply suspicious of the concept and sees it as its encirclement and refuses to recognise it.

Describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality."

ASEAN is also discussing the concept.&nbsp;Thailand which assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN this year said that the grouping is working on a common approach for the Indo-Pacific concept.&nbsp;

"ASEAN is working on a common approach on an Indo-Pacific concept that complements existing frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA," Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai.

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping.

The Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA) will be discussing the Indo-Pacific concept this week in a meet in Mauritius to understand the scope and impact of the concept on the grouping. IORA, a group of 22 countries who share their shores with Indian ocean, are keen to understand the geopolitical construct that has the backing of New Delhi and Washington and is increasingly gaining currency in the region. Speaking to WION in Pretoria, Antoinette Rademan, director of IORA at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of South African foreign ministry said, "There was a request...for members to discuss it. This is taking place this week in a geostrategic workshop." Adding, "We have to take cognisance of developments such as the Indo-pacific concept for which we have a workshop." Delhi and Washington consider themselves as the bookends of the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year even changed the name of its largest naval command, US Pacific command, to 'Indo-Pacific Command' to give a boost to the growing concept. China is deeply suspicious of the concept and sees it as its encirclement and refuses to recognise it. Describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality." ASEAN is also discussing the concept. Thailand which assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN this year said that the grouping is working on a common approach for the Indo-Pacific concept. "ASEAN is working on a common approach on an Indo-Pacific concept that complements existing frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association or IORA," Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai.

Indian-Ocean Rim Association to discuss Indo-Pacific concept in Mauritius meet

It will be far cry Islamabad to get membership of Indian-Ocean Rim Association any time soon.

Pakistan has repeatedly tried to become a member of the Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA).&nbsp;Pakistan has sent dozens of request to the secretariat of IORA but failed to get the membership of the most important grouping in the Indian Ocean region.

The Indian Ocean Rim Association is a 22-member organisation consisting of countries bordering the Indian Ocean.

The primary reason for Pakistan failing to get a membership is its ties with New Delhi. The situation is such that Pakistan's membership is not even put on the agenda.

A source told WION, "Pakistan needs to resolve its issue with India and agree to what India says, especially on trade, only then membership is possible".

Asked, if it is possible for Pakistan to get membership in the near future, another source said, "it's difficult".

To get the membership of the grouping, the consensus from all members is needed and any one country can block it, without giving any reason.

Maldives and Myanmar had applied for membership of the group with the former getting the membership last year but latter failing due to human rights concerns by South Africa.

South Africa is the chair of the IORA for two years and in 2020 the chair will pass to UAE.

All countries who share their shores with the Indian ocean can be part of the grouping, which means 25 countries can be part of the group.

Barring Pakistan, Myanmar and Djibouti, most countries of the Indian Ocean rim are its members. Djibouti has still not applied for membership of the grouping. France is also keen to join the grouping.

IORA's role in the region is expected to grow as the Indian ocean becomes a zone of great games and commercial interest rises. Half of the world's container ships, one-third of the world's bulk cargo traffic and two-thirds of the world's oil shipments cross its waters annually.

It will be far cry Islamabad to get membership of Indian-Ocean Rim Association any time soon. Pakistan has repeatedly tried to become a member of the Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA).

It will be far cry Islamabad to get membership of Indian-Ocean Rim Association any time soon. Pakistan has repeatedly tried to become a member of the Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA). Pakistan has sent dozens of request to the secretariat of IORA but failed to get the membership of the most important grouping in the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Ocean Rim Association is a 22-member organisation consisting of countries bordering the Indian Ocean. The primary reason for Pakistan failing to get a membership is its ties with New Delhi. The situation is such that Pakistan's membership is not even put on the agenda. A source told WION, "Pakistan needs to resolve its issue with India and agree to what India says, especially on trade, only then membership is possible". Asked, if it is possible for Pakistan to get membership in the near future, another source said, "it's difficult". To get the membership of the grouping, the consensus from all members is needed and any one country can block it, without giving any reason. Maldives and Myanmar had applied for membership of the group with the former getting the membership last year but latter failing due to human rights concerns by South Africa. South Africa is the chair of the IORA for two years and in 2020 the chair will pass to UAE. All countries who share their shores with the Indian ocean can be part of the grouping, which means 25 countries can be part of the group. Barring Pakistan, Myanmar and Djibouti, most countries of the Indian Ocean rim are its members. Djibouti has still not applied for membership of the grouping. France is also keen to join the grouping. IORA's role in the region is expected to grow as the Indian ocean becomes a zone of great games and commercial interest rises. Half of the world's container ships, one-third of the world's bulk cargo traffic and two-thirds of the world's oil shipments cross its waters annually.

No hope for Pakistan to get membership of Indian Ocean Rim Association

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-zero-tolerance-on-terrorism-full-commitment-towards-uniform-civil-code-208715">BJP manifesto released</a> on Monday&nbsp;said that if the party is elected back to form the government, it will take steps to isolate countries supporting terror and strengthen ties with groupings such as Russia-India-China (RIC) and Japan-America-India(JAI).

On the issue of terror, the BJP manifesto said,"we are committed to take concrete steps on international forums against countries &amp; supporting terrorism" and will take necessary measures to "isolate such countries" on the global stage.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WclSbVA4R7s" width="560"></iframe>

In the aftermath of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-our-inspiration-good-governance-our-mantra-says-pm-modi-as-bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-208728">Uri, Pathankot and Pulwama </a>terror attacks, India has been focusing on isolating Pakistan which has been supporting terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) responsible for these terror attacks.

&nbsp;

It proposed the establishment of a "committee of nations against international terrorism" which will be voluntary multilateral forum based on CCIT or Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism which calls for a common definition of terrorism.&nbsp;

CCIT was proposed by India in 1996 but still languishes at United Nation due to lack of consensus to have a common definition on terror.

The manifesto said, if it forms the next government, it will pursue co-operation against global evils like "terror &amp; corruption" through &nbsp;UN, G20, SCO, BRICS and Commonwealth.

Remember PM Modi has been raising the issue of terror and corruption at global forums. At the G20 summits in Argentina (2018), Germany(2017), Australia (2014), he gave agendas to counter corruption and terror.&nbsp;

The focus will be on boosting ties with groupings like RIC (Russia-India-China) and JAI (Japan-America-India), it said.

Last year on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina, RIC under Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping had met after a gap of 12 years and JAI under PM Modi, US President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had met for the first time.

The "neighbourhood-first" policy will continue with extensive leverage being given to forums like BIMSTEC.&nbsp;

BIMSTEC has become India's premier forum for regional cooperation. SAARC is on a standstill after India along with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives boycotted the 19th SAARC summit in Islamabad in the aftermath of the 2016 Uri terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror organisation - JeM.

Indo-Pacific also found mention in the manifesto, the party said it will be "pursued vigorously" along with Act East and cooperation with ASEAN.

The manifesto has also suggested the creation of an "international space technology alliance" so that benefits of space technology can reach everyone, especially the smaller countries.

Under the Modi government, India had launched the South Asia satellite to benefit the regional countries such as Nepal, Bangaldesh, Maldives, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.

The BJP manifesto released on Monday said that if the party is elected back to form the government, it will take steps to isolate countries supporting terror and strengthen ties with groupings such as Russia-India-China (RIC) and Japan-America-India(JAI).

The BJP manifesto released on Monday said that if the party is elected back to form the government, it will take steps to isolate countries supporting terror and strengthen ties with groupings such as Russia-India-China (RIC) and Japan-America-India(JAI). On the issue of terror, the BJP manifesto said,"we are committed to take concrete steps on international forums against countries & supporting terrorism" and will take necessary measures to "isolate such countries" on the global stage. In the aftermath of Uri, Pathankot and Pulwama terror attacks, India has been focusing on isolating Pakistan which has been supporting terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) responsible for these terror attacks. It proposed the establishment of a "committee of nations against international terrorism" which will be voluntary multilateral forum based on CCIT or Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism which calls for a common definition of terrorism. CCIT was proposed by India in 1996 but still languishes at United Nation due to lack of consensus to have a common definition on terror. The manifesto said, if it forms the next government, it will pursue co-operation against global evils like "terror & corruption" through UN, G20, SCO, BRICS and Commonwealth. Remember PM Modi has been raising the issue of terror and corruption at global forums. At the G20 summits in Argentina (2018), Germany(2017), Australia (2014), he gave agendas to counter corruption and terror. The focus will be on boosting ties with groupings like RIC (Russia-India-China) and JAI (Japan-America-India), it said. Last year on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina, RIC under Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping had met after a gap of 12 years and JAI under PM Modi, US President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had met for the first time. The "neighbourhood-first" policy will continue with extensive leverage being given to forums like BIMSTEC. BIMSTEC has become India's premier forum for regional cooperation. SAARC is on a standstill after India along with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives boycotted the 19th SAARC summit in Islamabad in the aftermath of the 2016 Uri terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror organisation - JeM. Indo-Pacific also found mention in the manifesto, the party said it will be "pursued vigorously" along with Act East and cooperation with ASEAN. The manifesto has also suggested the creation of an "international space technology alliance" so that benefits of space technology can reach everyone, especially the smaller countries. Under the Modi government, India had launched the South Asia satellite to benefit the regional countries such as Nepal, Bangaldesh, Maldives, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.

BJP manifesto: India to focus on fighting terror; strengthen ties with RIC, JAI

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India".&nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it.

Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16,&nbsp;on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks.&nbsp;

Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday.

The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism".&nbsp;

Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. &nbsp;

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region". The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India". Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it. Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16, on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks. Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday. The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism". Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province.

'Preposterous' says New Delhi after Pakistan claims India is planning to attack it

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-carries-out-major-readiness-exercise-along-pak-border-203434">Indian Air Force (IAF)</a> has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations.&nbsp;

According to Foreign Policy magazine, Pakistan had invited the US to physically count the number of F16s and all fighter planes were accounted for.

At 10 am on February 27, Pakistan Air Force's &nbsp;F16s, JF 17s and Mirage III/V aircraft were picked by the IAF radars. They were intercepted by IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000 and Mig 21 Bison fighters guided by ground radars and AWACS.&nbsp;

The Air Force, in a statement, said, "during the aerial engagement that followed, one MIG 21 Bison of the IAF shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera sector".

It added that the ejection took place from a Pakistani F16 on that day and electronic signature confirmed that.

The IAF said, "sitting ejection" at two different places took place on February 27, "one was an IAF MIG 21 Bison and the other a Pak aircraft. Electronic signatures gathered by us indicate that Pak aircraft was an F16".

India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F16.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US. The fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F16 between US and Pak, it should have not been done and this is why had flagged it with the US."

The US state department has said that it is "taking a look" on the use of F16 by Pakistan on February 27.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations. According to Foreign Policy magazine, Pakistan had invited the US to physically count the number of F16s and all fighter planes were accounted for. At 10 am on February 27, Pakistan Air Force's F16s, JF 17s and Mirage III/V aircraft were picked by the IAF radars. They were intercepted by IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000 and Mig 21 Bison fighters guided by ground radars and AWACS. The Air Force, in a statement, said, "during the aerial engagement that followed, one MIG 21 Bison of the IAF shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera sector". It added that the ejection took place from a Pakistani F16 on that day and electronic signature confirmed that. The IAF said, "sitting ejection" at two different places took place on February 27, "one was an IAF MIG 21 Bison and the other a Pak aircraft. Electronic signatures gathered by us indicate that Pak aircraft was an F16". India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F16. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US. The fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F16 between US and Pak, it should have not been done and this is why had flagged it with the US." The US state department has said that it is "taking a look" on the use of F16 by Pakistan on February 27.

Indian Air Force rubbishes US media report, says MiG 21 Bison shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera

India has said that it is engaging with the US regarding the waiver it got to purchase oil from Iran after the American sanctions came into effect last year. India got 6 months wavier on importing Iranian oil and this will come to end on May 4.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are engaging with the US...we have continued to engage with the US administration. The wavier lapses on the 4th of May, let us wait and see what happens. But, the important thing is we will continue our engagement with the US to see if we are taking care of our energy security"

The US State Department in October 2018 announced a wavier for select countries, including India, to buy oil from Iran ahead of the US sanctions that came into effect from November 4, 2018.

India imports a large quality of oil from the West Asian country and Tehran plays an important role in India's connectivity to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port.&nbsp;

The US is keen that countries reduce there oil imports from Iran. At his United Nations General Assembly speech, US President Donald Trump said, "we’re working with countries that import Iranian crude oil to cut their purchases substantially".

India has said that it is engaging with the US regarding the waiver it got to purchase oil from Iran after the American sanctions came into effect last year. India got 6 months wavier on importing Iranian oil and this will come to end on May 4.

India has said that it is engaging with the US regarding the waiver it got to purchase oil from Iran after the American sanctions came into effect last year. India got 6 months wavier on importing Iranian oil and this will come to end on May 4. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are engaging with the US...we have continued to engage with the US administration. The wavier lapses on the 4th of May, let us wait and see what happens. But, the important thing is we will continue our engagement with the US to see if we are taking care of our energy security" The US State Department in October 2018 announced a wavier for select countries, including India, to buy oil from Iran ahead of the US sanctions that came into effect from November 4, 2018. India imports a large quality of oil from the West Asian country and Tehran plays an important role in India's connectivity to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port. The US is keen that countries reduce there oil imports from Iran. At his United Nations General Assembly speech, US President Donald Trump said, "we’re working with countries that import Iranian crude oil to cut their purchases substantially".

India is engaging with United States for second Iran oil waiver: MEA 

In a jibe at Pakistan, India has said that it never changed its position that Islamabad used F-16 during the attack on Indian military installations on February 27.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been seeing doing flip flops from a number of Indian pilots it captured to delay in acceptance of the use of F-16.

Pakistan army's media wing — the ISPR — Inter-Services Public Relations in a release on April 1 accepted that F-16s were airborne, accepting the use of the fighter aircraft more than a month after the incident.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "we have said from the beginning, we haven't ever changed our position that Pak has used F-16."

India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F-16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F-16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F-16.

The spokesperson said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US."

Adding, "Fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F-16 between Us and Pak, it should have not been done and we are why had flagged with the US."

The Pakistani Army in its April 1 release said, "Even if F-16 have been used as at that point in time complete PAF was airborne including F16s, the fact remains that Pakistan Airforce shot down two Indian jets in self-defence. ..India can assume any type of their choice even F-16. Pakistan retains the right to use anything and everything in its legitimate self-defence."

The use of F-16s by Pakistan can have implications since the US had given F-16s to Islamabad for counter-terror operations. The US state dept has said that it is &nbsp;"taking a look" on the use of F-16 by Pakistan on February 27.

In a jibe at Pakistan, India has said that it never changed its position that Islamabad used F-16 during the attack on Indian military installations on February 27.

In a jibe at Pakistan, India has said that it never changed its position that Islamabad used F-16 during the attack on Indian military installations on February 27. Pakistan has been seeing doing flip flops from a number of Indian pilots it captured to delay in acceptance of the use of F-16. Pakistan army's media wing — the ISPR — Inter-Services Public Relations in a release on April 1 accepted that F-16s were airborne, accepting the use of the fighter aircraft more than a month after the incident. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "we have said from the beginning, we haven't ever changed our position that Pak has used F-16." India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F-16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F-16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F-16. The spokesperson said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US." Adding, "Fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F-16 between Us and Pak, it should have not been done and we are why had flagged with the US." The Pakistani Army in its April 1 release said, "Even if F-16 have been used as at that point in time complete PAF was airborne including F16s, the fact remains that Pakistan Airforce shot down two Indian jets in self-defence. ..India can assume any type of their choice even F-16. Pakistan retains the right to use anything and everything in its legitimate self-defence." The use of F-16s by Pakistan can have implications since the US had given F-16s to Islamabad for counter-terror operations. The US state dept has said that it is "taking a look" on the use of F-16 by Pakistan on February 27.

India takes a jibe a Pakistan's flip flop, says never changed position on Pak using F-16

India has said that the extradition case of <a href="http://winews.com/india-news/us-invoking-rico-act-against-nirav-modi-may-pave-the-way-for-his-speedier-extradition-to-india-207832">fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi</a> will be taken up by a UK court after May 30. Nirav, who is involved in a Rs 13,000 crore scam in India's public sector Punjab National Bank, is currently in a UK jail, having been denied bail twice.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "The judge has decided that case will be listed by the court on a date after 30th May 2019."

He said, "Agencies and High Commission of India, Government of India are putting a lot of effort into this to ensure that the process of extradition of Nirav Modi is completed at the earliest but we have to go through the due process".&nbsp;

His bail was rejected last week since the prosecution had pleaded that he may threaten the witnesses. His hearing will again resume on April 26 now.

Nirav had fled India in January 2018 when the PNB first reported the scam. In February, India revoked his passport and later in August last year, New Delhi sent a couple of extradition requests to the UK - one from the CBI, another from the ED regarding the extradition of the absconder businessman.

Through fraudulent issuance of Letters of Undertaking/Foreign Letters of Credit for payments of import bills, Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi were able to dupe PNB of Rs 13,000 crore between February 2011 and May 2017.&nbsp;

While Nirav Modi fled to the UK, Choksi fled to the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda and took its citizenship.

India has said that the extradition case of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi will be taken up by a UK court after May 30. Nirav, who is involved in a Rs 13,000 crore scam in India's public sector Punjab National Bank, is currently in a UK jail, having been denied bail twice.

India has said that the extradition case of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi will be taken up by a UK court after May 30. Nirav, who is involved in a Rs 13,000 crore scam in India's public sector Punjab National Bank, is currently in a UK jail, having been denied bail twice. The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "The judge has decided that case will be listed by the court on a date after 30th May 2019." He said, "Agencies and High Commission of India, Government of India are putting a lot of effort into this to ensure that the process of extradition of Nirav Modi is completed at the earliest but we have to go through the due process". His bail was rejected last week since the prosecution had pleaded that he may threaten the witnesses. His hearing will again resume on April 26 now. Nirav had fled India in January 2018 when the PNB first reported the scam. In February, India revoked his passport and later in August last year, New Delhi sent a couple of extradition requests to the UK - one from the CBI, another from the ED regarding the extradition of the absconder businessman. Through fraudulent issuance of Letters of Undertaking/Foreign Letters of Credit for payments of import bills, Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi were able to dupe PNB of Rs 13,000 crore between February 2011 and May 2017. While Nirav Modi fled to the UK, Choksi fled to the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda and took its citizenship.

Nirav Modi's extradition case to begin after May 30: MEA

India has said that it hasn't received any response from Pakistan on its concerns regarding the presence of Khalistanis in the 10 members —<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-talks-postponed-as-pakistans-khalistan-support-raises-concerns-206493">Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee </a>that will manage the affairs of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-corridor-talks-india-hopes-for-meaningful-talks-may-raise-khalistani-propaganda-with-pakistan-203092">Kartarpur Sahib Corridor</a>.&nbsp;

On March 29, India rescheduled the meeting that was to be held on April 2 between India and Pakistan, to discuss the modalities of opening the Kartarpur Corridor.&nbsp;

India also said the meeting will now be held after Pakistan gives its response on India's concerns over the presence of several Khalistani separatists in a committee appointed by Pakistan on the Kartarpur Corridor

Responding to question the spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs, Raveesh Kumar said, "We had shared our concerns that controversial elements, they have been appointed by Pakistan to a committee which was to be associated with Kartarpur corridor. We are yet to receive a response from Pakistan"

The committee includes a well known Khalistani and close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Gopal Singh Chawla. Other members of the committee include Bison Singh, Kuljit Singh, Tara Singh and Maninder Singh. The committee constituted by Pakistani Cabinet would facilitate Sikh pilgrims after the opening of Kartarpur Corridor.&nbsp;

While postponing the meet last week, New Delhi had proposed to Islamabad second India Pakistan technical level meet on Kartarpur corridor on April 15-16 for which Pakistan still has to respond.

The first India Pak technical level meet took place on March 19 at the zero points in which both sides did a survey of the site and discussed the alignment of the corridor.&nbsp;

Islamabad has also not addressed clarification New Delhi had sought in the first meet of India Pakistan officials on March 14 during which India had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5000 people allowed every day.&nbsp;

Islamabad wasn't keen on Indian proposal saying they can only allow 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

India has said that it hasn't received any response from Pakistan on its concerns regarding the presence of Khalistanis in the 10 members —Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee that will manage the affairs of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor.

India has said that it hasn't received any response from Pakistan on its concerns regarding the presence of Khalistanis in the 10 members —Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee that will manage the affairs of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor. On March 29, India rescheduled the meeting that was to be held on April 2 between India and Pakistan, to discuss the modalities of opening the Kartarpur Corridor. India also said the meeting will now be held after Pakistan gives its response on India's concerns over the presence of several Khalistani separatists in a committee appointed by Pakistan on the Kartarpur Corridor Responding to question the spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs, Raveesh Kumar said, "We had shared our concerns that controversial elements, they have been appointed by Pakistan to a committee which was to be associated with Kartarpur corridor. We are yet to receive a response from Pakistan" The committee includes a well known Khalistani and close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Gopal Singh Chawla. Other members of the committee include Bison Singh, Kuljit Singh, Tara Singh and Maninder Singh. The committee constituted by Pakistani Cabinet would facilitate Sikh pilgrims after the opening of Kartarpur Corridor. While postponing the meet last week, New Delhi had proposed to Islamabad second India Pakistan technical level meet on Kartarpur corridor on April 15-16 for which Pakistan still has to respond. The first India Pak technical level meet took place on March 19 at the zero points in which both sides did a survey of the site and discussed the alignment of the corridor. Islamabad has also not addressed clarification New Delhi had sought in the first meet of India Pakistan officials on March 14 during which India had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5000 people allowed every day. Islamabad wasn't keen on Indian proposal saying they can only allow 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

Pakistan keeps mum on India's concerns over presence of Khalistani separatists on Kartarpur panel

India has slammed the UN human rights experts who "condemned" the Indian government’s decision to deport three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/german-filmmaker-beaten-in-rohingya-camp-in-bangladesh-198794">Rohingya</a> to Myanmar, saying the statements made by them are misleading and incorrect and that New Delhi's action is in accordance with Indian laws.

Reacting to a question during the Ministry of External Affairs's weekly briefing, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "The interpretation made of the facts of the case, as portrayed in the statement, are misleading and incorrect. The repatriation of illegal immigrants to their country of origin is in accordance with Indian laws."

The three Rohingya — a father and his two children who had been in prison since 2013 — were deported last month.&nbsp;

"Government will continue to take actions as may be necessary in the implementation of Indian laws, and as directed by our judiciary," Kumar said.&nbsp;

The Indian Supreme Court had in October last year refused to interfere in the government's decision to deport 7 Rohingya men. On January 3 this year, India deported another five Rohingya to Myanmar.&nbsp;

The UN experts who condemned the Indian government's decision, saying it was against international law, are Tendayi Achiume, special rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Felipe González Morales, special rapporteur on the human rights of migrants; Seong-Phil Hong, chair-rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention; Yanghee Lee, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar and Fernand de Varennes, special rapporteur on minority issues.

The Rohingya are Myanmarese Muslims from the country's western Rakhine state. They have fled Myanmar in huge numbers, especially to neighbouring Bangladesh, since a crackdown on them by the Myanmarese security forces since August 2017. The Myanmarese and have faced persecution by the local Buddist population and their citizenship has been rescinded.

India has slammed the UN human rights experts who "condemned" the Indian government’s decision to deport three Rohingya to Myanmar, saying the statements made by them are misleading and incorrect and that New Delhi's action is in accordance with Indian laws.

India has slammed the UN human rights experts who "condemned" the Indian government’s decision to deport three Rohingya to Myanmar, saying the statements made by them are misleading and incorrect and that New Delhi's action is in accordance with Indian laws. Reacting to a question during the Ministry of External Affairs's weekly briefing, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "The interpretation made of the facts of the case, as portrayed in the statement, are misleading and incorrect. The repatriation of illegal immigrants to their country of origin is in accordance with Indian laws." The three Rohingya — a father and his two children who had been in prison since 2013 — were deported last month. "Government will continue to take actions as may be necessary in the implementation of Indian laws, and as directed by our judiciary," Kumar said. The Indian Supreme Court had in October last year refused to interfere in the government's decision to deport 7 Rohingya men. On January 3 this year, India deported another five Rohingya to Myanmar. The UN experts who condemned the Indian government's decision, saying it was against international law, are Tendayi Achiume, special rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance; Felipe González Morales, special rapporteur on the human rights of migrants; Seong-Phil Hong, chair-rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention; Yanghee Lee, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar and Fernand de Varennes, special rapporteur on minority issues. The Rohingya are Myanmarese Muslims from the country's western Rakhine state. They have fled Myanmar in huge numbers, especially to neighbouring Bangladesh, since a crackdown on them by the Myanmarese security forces since August 2017. The Myanmarese and have faced persecution by the local Buddist population and their citizenship has been rescinded.

India slams UN experts who 'condemned' deportation of Rohingyas

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the highest civilian award of United Arab Emirates (UAE) --The Zayed Medal. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces made the announcement through a tweet.&nbsp;

"We have historical and comprehensive strategic ties with India, reinforced by the pivotal role of my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who gave these relations a big boost. In appreciation of his efforts, the UAE President grants him the Zayed Medal," he tweeted.

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Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces tweets that UAE President has awarded PM Narendra Modi with the Zayed Medal. <a href="https://t.co/owXnP8BRqU">pic.twitter.com/owXnP8BRqU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1113698733684867072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj welcomed the announcement of the award to PM Modi saying the award is recognition of Prime Minister’s stellar role in ushering in a new era of strategic partnership.

She tweeted, "I am extremely happy to welcome the announcement of Order of Zayed for a great son of India Prime Minister &nbsp;@narendramodi by His Highness @MohamedBinZayed."

Adding, "This is in recognition of Prime Minister’s stellar role in ushering in a new era of strategic partnership with UAE and the best ever relations with the Islamic world."

Earlier recipients of Zayed medal &nbsp;or Order of Zayed includes Russian President Vladimir Putin (2007), President of China Xi Jinping (2018), Queen Elizabeth of UK (2010) and King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (2016).

UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits.&nbsp;

Indian PM Modi first visited the country in August of 2015 which was followed by a visit by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade and again in 2018 PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. UAE is one of the very few countries Modi had visited twice.

Earlier this year, in a first, UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the highest civilian award of United Arab Emirates (UAE) --The Zayed Medal. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces made the announcement through a tweet.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the highest civilian award of United Arab Emirates (UAE) --The Zayed Medal. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces made the announcement through a tweet. "We have historical and comprehensive strategic ties with India, reinforced by the pivotal role of my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who gave these relations a big boost. In appreciation of his efforts, the UAE President grants him the Zayed Medal," he tweeted. Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces tweets that UAE President has awarded PM Narendra Modi with the Zayed Medal. pic.twitter.com/owXnP8BRqU — ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2019 × External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj welcomed the announcement of the award to PM Modi saying the award is recognition of Prime Minister’s stellar role in ushering in a new era of strategic partnership. She tweeted, "I am extremely happy to welcome the announcement of Order of Zayed for a great son of India Prime Minister @narendramodi by His Highness @MohamedBinZayed." Adding, "This is in recognition of Prime Minister’s stellar role in ushering in a new era of strategic partnership with UAE and the best ever relations with the Islamic world." Earlier recipients of Zayed medal or Order of Zayed includes Russian President Vladimir Putin (2007), President of China Xi Jinping (2018), Queen Elizabeth of UK (2010) and King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (2016). UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits. Indian PM Modi first visited the country in August of 2015 which was followed by a visit by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade and again in 2018 PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. UAE is one of the very few countries Modi had visited twice. Earlier this year, in a first, UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan.

Zayed Medal: PM Modi honoured with UAE's highest civilian award 

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