Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance.

The formal announcement of the alliance will be made on Friday in Ranchi where JMM Chief Hemant Soren and AICC in-charge of Jharkhand are scheduled to address a joint press conference.

Interestingly Babu Lal Marandi's Jharkhand Vikas Morcha could not make it to the alliance formed by the opposition parties to contest against the ruling BJP in Jharkhand.

In the recent Lok Sabha polls, his party was a part of the grand-alliance.

According to the sources,&nbsp;the JMM, who was promised by the Congress Party that it will be given a major chunk of seat share to contest in Assembly polls, will be getting more than 50 per cent of total assembly seats.

The Congress party which got major share in the last Lok Sabha polls will be fighting on 28-30 assembly seats.

However, it is yet to be decided whether there will be any chief minister face from the alliance or not.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance.

Ahead of Jharkhand Assembly elections, three major opposition parties -- Congress, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janta Dal have forged pre-poll alliance. The formal announcement of the alliance will be made on Friday in Ranchi where JMM Chief Hemant Soren and AICC in-charge of Jharkhand are scheduled to address a joint press conference. Interestingly Babu Lal Marandi's Jharkhand Vikas Morcha could not make it to the alliance formed by the opposition parties to contest against the ruling BJP in Jharkhand. In the recent Lok Sabha polls, his party was a part of the grand-alliance. According to the sources, the JMM, who was promised by the Congress Party that it will be given a major chunk of seat share to contest in Assembly polls, will be getting more than 50 per cent of total assembly seats. The Congress party which got major share in the last Lok Sabha polls will be fighting on 28-30 assembly seats. However, it is yet to be decided whether there will be any chief minister face from the alliance or not. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

Congress, JMM and RJD seal deal for Jharkhand Assembly Polls

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and other senior state party leaders on Thursday met BJP president Amit Shah at his residence here to finalise the list of candidates for the upcoming assembly elections.

Apart from Das, the meeting was attended by Jharkhand BJP president Laxman Gilua, election in-charge O P Mathur and election co-in-charge Ram Vichar Netam along with the Union Minister from the state Arjun Munda.

The meeting, which began around 6 pm, concluded in the early hours of Friday.

Ahead of the scheduled meeting with Shah, senior party leaders had managed to bring down the number of prospective candidates on each seat from 15 to five.

"We can't go unprepared. Even if we have brought down the candidates to 15 to 5 or 10 to 4, Adhyaksh Ji would be sitting there with his data on every seat. There is no scope of pushing one's candidacy without merit," a senior BJP leader said.

Earlier, in the day, a core group had met for deliberations on the candidates. Several MPs were also invited for the same.

A senior party leader said that names from workers from each Mandal and district and Members of Parliament were considered while shortlisting the names.

The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and other senior state party leaders on Thursday met BJP president Amit Shah at his residence here to finalise the list of candidates for the upcoming assembly elections.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and other senior state party leaders on Thursday met BJP president Amit Shah at his residence here to finalise the list of candidates for the upcoming assembly elections. Apart from Das, the meeting was attended by Jharkhand BJP president Laxman Gilua, election in-charge O P Mathur and election co-in-charge Ram Vichar Netam along with the Union Minister from the state Arjun Munda. The meeting, which began around 6 pm, concluded in the early hours of Friday. Ahead of the scheduled meeting with Shah, senior party leaders had managed to bring down the number of prospective candidates on each seat from 15 to five. "We can't go unprepared. Even if we have brought down the candidates to 15 to 5 or 10 to 4, Adhyaksh Ji would be sitting there with his data on every seat. There is no scope of pushing one's candidacy without merit," a senior BJP leader said. Earlier, in the day, a core group had met for deliberations on the candidates. Several MPs were also invited for the same. A senior party leader said that names from workers from each Mandal and district and Members of Parliament were considered while shortlisting the names. The 81-member Jharkhand assembly is set to go for a five-phased election from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

Jharkhand CM meets Amit Shah to finalise candidates for Assembly polls

The CBI has clarified that the Red Corner Notice (RCN) against fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's brother Nehal Deepak Modi is valid and visible to all member countries.

"As per media query related to the Red Notice against Nehal Deepak Modi, it is clarified that the Interpol Secretariat General (IPSG), Lyon on 02.10.2019 informed that the Notice remains valid and visible to all member countries," CBI said.

The Interpol had in September issued a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Nehal Deepak Modi in connection with a money laundering case.

Forty-year-old Nehal was born in Belgium and is now under the scanner in connection with the case.

Nirav Modi is the prime accused in Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case.

He had fled the country in January last year before the scam came to light.

He was, however, arrested by Scotland Yard and is in jail since then. His judicial custody ends on September 19.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The CBI has clarified that the Red Corner Notice (RCN) against fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's brother Nehal Deepak Modi is valid and visible to all member countries.

The CBI has clarified that the Red Corner Notice (RCN) against fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's brother Nehal Deepak Modi is valid and visible to all member countries. "As per media query related to the Red Notice against Nehal Deepak Modi, it is clarified that the Interpol Secretariat General (IPSG), Lyon on 02.10.2019 informed that the Notice remains valid and visible to all member countries," CBI said. The Interpol had in September issued a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Nehal Deepak Modi in connection with a money laundering case. Forty-year-old Nehal was born in Belgium and is now under the scanner in connection with the case. Nirav Modi is the prime accused in Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case. He had fled the country in January last year before the scam came to light. He was, however, arrested by Scotland Yard and is in jail since then. His judicial custody ends on September 19.

Red Corner Notice against Nirav Modi's brother remains valid: CBI

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Congratulations Delhi! Today, 100 new buses were flagged off. 3,000 more buses will be on Delhi's roads in a few months. Just like Delhi is known today for its work in the fields of education, health, Delhi will soon be known for its public bus system."

Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot were present at the ceremony.

"Congrats Delhi! Along with CM Arvind Kejriwal &amp; Dy CM M Sisodia flagged off 100 new buses from Rajghat Bus Depot. Supported with CCTV Cameras, Hydraulic Lifts, Panic Buttons - these are new age modern buses for People of Delhi," Gahlot tweeted.

The new buses will operate from the Rani Khera depot, covering various places in the outlying areas of the city.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday flagged off 100 standard floor buses equipped with CCTV cameras and panic button under the cluster scheme from Rajghat Bus Depot. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Congratulations Delhi! Today, 100 new buses were flagged off. 3,000 more buses will be on Delhi's roads in a few months. Just like Delhi is known today for its work in the fields of education, health, Delhi will soon be known for its public bus system." Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot were present at the ceremony. "Congrats Delhi! Along with CM Arvind Kejriwal & Dy CM M Sisodia flagged off 100 new buses from Rajghat Bus Depot. Supported with CCTV Cameras, Hydraulic Lifts, Panic Buttons - these are new age modern buses for People of Delhi," Gahlot tweeted. The new buses will operate from the Rani Khera depot, covering various places in the outlying areas of the city.

Kejriwal flags off 100 new buses in Delhi, says 3,000 more to come

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced.

Goa's beaches are often seen occupied by tourists but the tourists had a good fraction of Delhi residents here as seen on Thursday (November 07).

A Delhi resident Vidya said that she felt that she was finally able to breathe after coming to Goa.

Anything above 401 is classified as 'severe'. Air pollution at that level can seriously affect those with existing respiratory illnesses and even those who are otherwise healthy. New Delhi's air quality index, last week, had crossed 500 on the scale and was declared 'severe plus'.

PM 2.5, or tiny particulate matter that is less than 2.5 microns in diameter, are considered particularly dangerous because they lodge deep in the lungs. PM 10 is another pollutant that is inhaled when people breathe through their mouths.

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced.

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced. Goa's beaches are often seen occupied by tourists but the tourists had a good fraction of Delhi residents here as seen on Thursday (November 07). A Delhi resident Vidya said that she felt that she was finally able to breathe after coming to Goa. Anything above 401 is classified as 'severe'. Air pollution at that level can seriously affect those with existing respiratory illnesses and even those who are otherwise healthy. New Delhi's air quality index, last week, had crossed 500 on the scale and was declared 'severe plus'. PM 2.5, or tiny particulate matter that is less than 2.5 microns in diameter, are considered particularly dangerous because they lodge deep in the lungs. PM 10 is another pollutant that is inhaled when people breathe through their mouths.

'I can finally breathe': Delhi residents escape to beaches of Goa away from toxic air

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the state-of-the-art Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Complex at Kartarpur Corridor in Dera Baba Nanak of Punjab's Gurdaspur district on Saturday.

Earlier this week, Home Minister Amit Shah had on Twitter urged people to "witness history being created" on November 9 with the inauguration of the corridor.

"With the opening of Kartarpur Sahib corridor, when we are marking Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 550th Parkash Purab, PM @narendramodi has realised the long-cherished dream of millions. On 9th, let's witness history being created as PM @narendramodi dedicates this corridor to the nation," read Shah's tweet from November 6.

The much-awaited corridor will have all the necessary passenger amenities to facilitate pilgrims intending to visit the Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan.

The design and quality parameters also have been prepared to keep in view the aspirations and religious sentiments of the followers of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.

The design of the PTB Complex has been inspired by the symbol 'Khanda'&nbsp;which represents the values of oneness and humanity.

It is supposed to have adequate immigration and customs clearance facilities to process the smooth movement of approximately 5,000 pilgrims per day.

Furthermore, the complex will have open areas for kiosks, cloakrooms and adequate parking space. The passage up to the Zero Point on the International Border will also be covered.

India and Pakistan had on October 24 signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, paving way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of the Sikh Guru.

The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement but Indian pilgrims are required to carry their passports and will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, which was established by Guru Nanak Dev in 1522.

The foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later, the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side.

However, Pakistan has not agreed to India's demand to make the Kartarpur Gurdwara's visit charge-free.

Following a low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, India had expressed disappointment at Pakistan's refusal to waive USD 20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged it to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims.

According to the Home Ministry, the agreement, which lays a formal framework for operationalising the corridor, stated that Indian pilgrims of all faiths and persons of Indian origin can use the corridor.

The travel will be visa-free and pilgrims need to carry only a valid passport. Persons of Indian-Origin need to carry OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card along with the passport of their country.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will also inaugurate the other side of the Kartarpur Corridor on the same day, apart from other events that will be hosted to mark Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the state-of-the-art Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Complex at Kartarpur Corridor in Dera Baba Nanak of Punjab's Gurdaspur district on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the state-of-the-art Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Complex at Kartarpur Corridor in Dera Baba Nanak of Punjab's Gurdaspur district on Saturday. Earlier this week, Home Minister Amit Shah had on Twitter urged people to "witness history being created" on November 9 with the inauguration of the corridor. "With the opening of Kartarpur Sahib corridor, when we are marking Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 550th Parkash Purab, PM @narendramodi has realised the long-cherished dream of millions. On 9th, let's witness history being created as PM @narendramodi dedicates this corridor to the nation," read Shah's tweet from November 6. The much-awaited corridor will have all the necessary passenger amenities to facilitate pilgrims intending to visit the Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan. The design and quality parameters also have been prepared to keep in view the aspirations and religious sentiments of the followers of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. The design of the PTB Complex has been inspired by the symbol 'Khanda' which represents the values of oneness and humanity. It is supposed to have adequate immigration and customs clearance facilities to process the smooth movement of approximately 5,000 pilgrims per day. Furthermore, the complex will have open areas for kiosks, cloakrooms and adequate parking space. The passage up to the Zero Point on the International Border will also be covered. India and Pakistan had on October 24 signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, paving way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of the Sikh Guru. The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement but Indian pilgrims are required to carry their passports and will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, which was established by Guru Nanak Dev in 1522. The foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later, the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side. However, Pakistan has not agreed to India's demand to make the Kartarpur Gurdwara's visit charge-free. Following a low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, India had expressed disappointment at Pakistan's refusal to waive USD 20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged it to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims. According to the Home Ministry, the agreement, which lays a formal framework for operationalising the corridor, stated that Indian pilgrims of all faiths and persons of Indian origin can use the corridor. The travel will be visa-free and pilgrims need to carry only a valid passport. Persons of Indian-Origin need to carry OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card along with the passport of their country. Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will also inaugurate the other side of the Kartarpur Corridor on the same day, apart from other events that will be hosted to mark Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary.

PM Modi to inaugurate Kartarpur Corridor Passenger Terminal Building on Saturday

Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap was knocked out of the Fuzhou China Open after facing a defeat against Denmark`s Viktor Axelsen 13-21, 19-21 in the second-round match here on Thursday.

In the 43-minute long encounter, Kashyap did not look promising as he lost the match in two straight games.

Axelsen outclassed Kashyap to proceed in the third round of the tournament.

Last month Kashyap faced defeat at the hands of Hong Kong`s NG Ka Long Angus 11-21, 9-21 in the first round match of the French Open.

Yesterday, shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-stunned-in-first-round-of-china-open-260271">Saina Nehwal </a>crashed out of the Fuzhou China Open after losing the first-round match at the hands of China`s Cai Yan Yan 21-9, 21-12 in the encounter that lasted for 24 minutes.Mixed doubles pair Pranaav Jerry Chopra and N. Sikki Reddy were knocked out from the tournament after losing to Taiwan`s Wang Chi-Lin and Cheng Chi Ya 21-14, 21-14.&nbsp;

Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap was knocked out of the Fuzhou China Open after facing a defeat against Denmark`s Viktor Axelsen 13-21, 19-21 in the second-round match here on Thursday.

Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap was knocked out of the Fuzhou China Open after facing a defeat against Denmark`s Viktor Axelsen 13-21, 19-21 in the second-round match here on Thursday. In the 43-minute long encounter, Kashyap did not look promising as he lost the match in two straight games. Axelsen outclassed Kashyap to proceed in the third round of the tournament. Last month Kashyap faced defeat at the hands of Hong Kong`s NG Ka Long Angus 11-21, 9-21 in the first round match of the French Open. Yesterday, shuttler Saina Nehwal crashed out of the Fuzhou China Open after losing the first-round match at the hands of China`s Cai Yan Yan 21-9, 21-12 in the encounter that lasted for 24 minutes.Mixed doubles pair Pranaav Jerry Chopra and N. Sikki Reddy were knocked out from the tournament after losing to Taiwan`s Wang Chi-Lin and Cheng Chi Ya 21-14, 21-14.

China Open: P Kashyap crashes out after losing to Viktor Axelsen

Minister of State for Home Affairs, G.Kishan Reddy, has announced that India will host the 'No Money For Terror'&nbsp;meet in India in 2020.

The minister is currently heading a high-powered five-member Indian delegation, along with Director-General of the National Investigation Agency YC&nbsp;Modi, at this year's edition of the three-day global conference in Melbourne against the support and financing of terrorism, which began from November 6.

At the inaugural session, the minister stressed India's concern over the "tacit support" that some nations are extending to terror groups breeding on their soil, in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

He, at the session, also called for a united global effort against all those who support terror or help generate finances for terror. He stated that India, being a victim of cross-border terrorism, advocates zero-tolerance towards terror, a detailed report stated.

Reddy stated that despite the killing of Osama Bin Laden in 2011, several active affiliates of Al Qaeda still exist in many parts of the world.

He also cautioned that despite the recent elimination of Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, there is no room to construe that the Caliphate would cease to survive.

Viewing terrorism as the "single biggest threat to peace, security, and development" in the region, the minister further proposed four points for inclusion in the resolution to tackle the global menace saying all nations must expedite the finalisation of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations.

All countries which participated in the meeting should also effectively enforce the standards mandated by the Financial Action Terror Force (FATF) and UN listings, the minister said. In addition, members should also initiate discussion on Countering Financing of Radicalisation (CFR), which would prevent radicalisation - an essential prerequisite of terrorism.

Reddy would also be leading a terror-focused bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart in Melbourne on November 8.

Minister of State for Home Affairs, G.Kishan Reddy, has announced that India will host the 'No Money For Terror' meet in India in 2020. The minister is currently heading a high-powered five-member Indian delegation, along with Director-General of the National Investigation Agency YC Modi, at this year's edition of the three-day global conference in Melbourne against the support and financing of terrorism, which began from November 6.

Minister of State for Home Affairs, G.Kishan Reddy, has announced that India will host the 'No Money For Terror' meet in India in 2020. The minister is currently heading a high-powered five-member Indian delegation, along with Director-General of the National Investigation Agency YC Modi, at this year's edition of the three-day global conference in Melbourne against the support and financing of terrorism, which began from November 6. At the inaugural session, the minister stressed India's concern over the "tacit support" that some nations are extending to terror groups breeding on their soil, in an apparent reference to Pakistan. He, at the session, also called for a united global effort against all those who support terror or help generate finances for terror. He stated that India, being a victim of cross-border terrorism, advocates zero-tolerance towards terror, a detailed report stated. Reddy stated that despite the killing of Osama Bin Laden in 2011, several active affiliates of Al Qaeda still exist in many parts of the world. He also cautioned that despite the recent elimination of Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, there is no room to construe that the Caliphate would cease to survive. Viewing terrorism as the "single biggest threat to peace, security, and development" in the region, the minister further proposed four points for inclusion in the resolution to tackle the global menace saying all nations must expedite the finalisation of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations. All countries which participated in the meeting should also effectively enforce the standards mandated by the Financial Action Terror Force (FATF) and UN listings, the minister said. In addition, members should also initiate discussion on Countering Financing of Radicalisation (CFR), which would prevent radicalisation - an essential prerequisite of terrorism. Reddy would also be leading a terror-focused bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart in Melbourne on November 8.

India to host next 'No Money For Terror' meet in 2020

Steel giant ArcelorMittal pulled out of an agreement to buy struggling Italian firm Ilva because of production concerns, Italy's prime minister has said, warning the company wants to cut 5,000 jobs at one of its plants.&nbsp;

The world's biggest steelmaker on Monday retreated from its plan to buy the steel producer, blaming a decision by Rome to not grant it immunity from prosecution over the heavily polluting Taranto plant.

The announcement caused shockwaves in Italy where the deal was expected to safeguard thousands of jobs. &nbsp;

But the country's prime minister Giuseppe Conte on Wednesday said the decision was instead over production targets.&nbsp;

"The real reason for their withdrawal is that their investments are not profitable and they are demanding now that 5,000 jobs are cut. It's unacceptable," he said, after meeting with ArcelorMittal's management.&nbsp;

If the steel giant goes ahead with its plan to pull out of the plant, the government "will not stay inert", he added.

The prime minister hopes that following the discussion, ArcelorMittal will return to the negotiating table "with acceptable and tenable proposals".

ArcelorMittal began leasing the plant -- with an obligation to buy it -- last November and had plans to invest 2.4 billion euros ($2.7 billion) to revive it, including 1.2 billion euros to curb pollution by 2024.

The steel giant was given a period of legal immunity to bring the site up to environmental standards.

But after much prevarication, the Italian parliament revoked that decision and the company lost its immunity on November 3.

The Taranto plant in the south of Italy is mired in controversy because experts believe that some 7,500 people have died in the surrounding area as a result of diseases linked to toxic emissions.

The plant -- Europe's largest integrated steelmaking site -- has a workforce of more than 8,000 in the poverty-hit southern Italian city, where unemployment is high.&nbsp;

Conte said he would meet with unions on Thursday and asked the whole country to form a "common front" to support the site.&nbsp;

Steel giant ArcelorMittal pulled out of an agreement to buy struggling Italian firm Ilva because of production concerns, Italy's prime minister has said, warning the company wants to cut 5,000 jobs at one of its plants.

Steel giant ArcelorMittal pulled out of an agreement to buy struggling Italian firm Ilva because of production concerns, Italy's prime minister has said, warning the company wants to cut 5,000 jobs at one of its plants. The world's biggest steelmaker on Monday retreated from its plan to buy the steel producer, blaming a decision by Rome to not grant it immunity from prosecution over the heavily polluting Taranto plant. The announcement caused shockwaves in Italy where the deal was expected to safeguard thousands of jobs. But the country's prime minister Giuseppe Conte on Wednesday said the decision was instead over production targets. "The real reason for their withdrawal is that their investments are not profitable and they are demanding now that 5,000 jobs are cut. It's unacceptable," he said, after meeting with ArcelorMittal's management. If the steel giant goes ahead with its plan to pull out of the plant, the government "will not stay inert", he added. The prime minister hopes that following the discussion, ArcelorMittal will return to the negotiating table "with acceptable and tenable proposals". ArcelorMittal began leasing the plant -- with an obligation to buy it -- last November and had plans to invest 2.4 billion euros ($2.7 billion) to revive it, including 1.2 billion euros to curb pollution by 2024. The steel giant was given a period of legal immunity to bring the site up to environmental standards. But after much prevarication, the Italian parliament revoked that decision and the company lost its immunity on November 3. The Taranto plant in the south of Italy is mired in controversy because experts believe that some 7,500 people have died in the surrounding area as a result of diseases linked to toxic emissions. The plant -- Europe's largest integrated steelmaking site -- has a workforce of more than 8,000 in the poverty-hit southern Italian city, where unemployment is high. Conte said he would meet with unions on Thursday and asked the whole country to form a "common front" to support the site.

ArcelorMittal wants to cut 5,000 jobs: Italy PM

Amid the uncertainty over the formation of a new government in Maharashtra, a delegation of BJP leaders led by the party`s state chief Chandrakant Patil is slated to meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Thursday.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has been elected as the BJP Legislative Party leader in Maharashtra, is not a part of the delegation.

The BJP and Shiv Sena, who are partners in the ruling alliance in Maharashtra, had fought the assembly polls together. While the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the recently held elections, it is yet to stake claim for government formation.

The delay in government formation has been caused by differences in the two parties on power-sharing.

In the recently-held assembly polls, the BJP emerged as the single largest party by winning 105 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats in the 288-member Vidhan Sabha.

Even after getting the required numbers to form the government, there has been a delay in cobbling up a coalition owing to differences between the two parties on power-sharing.

Shiv Sena has insisted that the two parties had a `50-50` power-sharing agreement before the elections. But Fadnavis has said that Shiv Sena was not promised the chief ministerial post for two-and-a-half years when the alliance was sealed before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid the uncertainty over the formation of a new government in Maharashtra, a delegation of BJP leaders led by the party`s state chief Chandrakant Patil is slated to meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Thursday.

Amid the uncertainty over the formation of a new government in Maharashtra, a delegation of BJP leaders led by the party`s state chief Chandrakant Patil is slated to meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Thursday. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has been elected as the BJP Legislative Party leader in Maharashtra, is not a part of the delegation. The BJP and Shiv Sena, who are partners in the ruling alliance in Maharashtra, had fought the assembly polls together. While the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the recently held elections, it is yet to stake claim for government formation. The delay in government formation has been caused by differences in the two parties on power-sharing. In the recently-held assembly polls, the BJP emerged as the single largest party by winning 105 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats in the 288-member Vidhan Sabha. Even after getting the required numbers to form the government, there has been a delay in cobbling up a coalition owing to differences between the two parties on power-sharing. Shiv Sena has insisted that the two parties had a `50-50` power-sharing agreement before the elections. But Fadnavis has said that Shiv Sena was not promised the chief ministerial post for two-and-a-half years when the alliance was sealed before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Tussle over government formation continues as BJP delegation to meet Governor in Maharashtra

Pakistan on Wednesday briefed the heads of foreign missions and their representatives in Islamabad about the opening of the much-awaited Kartarpur Corridor.

Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood briefed the diplomatic corps regarding Pakistan's initiative of opening the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, which will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab.

The Heads of Mission and representatives from Islamabad-based diplomatic missions attended in large numbers, an official statement said.

The briefing comes just days ahead of ceremonies on both sides of India and Pakistan borders to inaugurate the corridor on November 9.

India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Mahmood claimed that the first phase of the construction of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor project and renovation of Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, which has now become the world's largest Sikh Gurdwara, has been completed in record time.

The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib.

Mahmood has said that the opening of the corridor is in line with Pakistan's policy of "promoting inter-faith harmony".

However, Pakistan did not agree to India's demand to make the Kartapur Gurdwara's visit, charge-free.

Following the low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, New Delhi had expressed disappointment on Pakistan's refusal to waive USD 20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged Islamabad to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims.

Ahead of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, India has reiterated its concerns over looming terror threats and possible use of the corridor for anti-India activity.

India has given the list of dignitaries who will be crossing over to Kartarpur. The 'Jatha'&nbsp;includes former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former chief minister Sukhbir Badal, Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and more than 150 Members of Parliament and prominent Indians.

No confirmation of the approved list has come from Pakistan yet. Islamabad has also not allowed Indian advance security and protocol team to visit the site as this is a normal practice and well-known procedure before VVIP visits.

Pakistan has also not shared minute details of the programme and is not following the Kartarpur agreement spirit.

Khan, without mutually consulting India, tweeted that pilgrims don't require a passport. This has created confusion here and clarification has been sought which has not come till date.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Wednesday briefed the heads of foreign missions and their representatives in Islamabad about the opening of the much-awaited Kartarpur Corridor. Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood briefed the diplomatic corps regarding Pakistan's initiative of opening the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, which will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab.

Pakistan on Wednesday briefed the heads of foreign missions and their representatives in Islamabad about the opening of the much-awaited Kartarpur Corridor. Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood briefed the diplomatic corps regarding Pakistan's initiative of opening the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, which will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab. The Heads of Mission and representatives from Islamabad-based diplomatic missions attended in large numbers, an official statement said. The briefing comes just days ahead of ceremonies on both sides of India and Pakistan borders to inaugurate the corridor on November 9. India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Mahmood claimed that the first phase of the construction of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor project and renovation of Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, which has now become the world's largest Sikh Gurdwara, has been completed in record time. The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib. Mahmood has said that the opening of the corridor is in line with Pakistan's policy of "promoting inter-faith harmony". However, Pakistan did not agree to India's demand to make the Kartapur Gurdwara's visit, charge-free. Following the low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, New Delhi had expressed disappointment on Pakistan's refusal to waive USD 20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged Islamabad to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims. Ahead of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, India has reiterated its concerns over looming terror threats and possible use of the corridor for anti-India activity. India has given the list of dignitaries who will be crossing over to Kartarpur. The 'Jatha' includes former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former chief minister Sukhbir Badal, Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and more than 150 Members of Parliament and prominent Indians. No confirmation of the approved list has come from Pakistan yet. Islamabad has also not allowed Indian advance security and protocol team to visit the site as this is a normal practice and well-known procedure before VVIP visits. Pakistan has also not shared minute details of the programme and is not following the Kartarpur agreement spirit. Khan, without mutually consulting India, tweeted that pilgrims don't require a passport. This has created confusion here and clarification has been sought which has not come till date.

Pakistan briefs diplomats on opening of Kartarpur Corridor

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI'&nbsp;and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning.

He said that transport and agriculture ministries should come together to develop an e-model of logistics support for agricultural products. The prime minister also called for deploying young officers in aspirational districts and setting timelines to bring them up to national average.

According to an official release, prime minister gave explicit instructions for speedy completion of Katra-Banihal Railway Line by next year and said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020.

He said that long-delayed projects should be expedited by the respective state governments and directed that regular reports on the progress of such projects be sent to his office.

The release said that in the previous PRAGATI meetings, a total of 265 projects with a total investment of Rs 12.15 lakh crore, besides 47 schemes and grievances related to 17 sectors had been reviewed.

The PRAGATI meeting -- ICT based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation -- witnessed a review of nine projects worth over Rs 61,000 crore related to 16 states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Grievances of Indian citizens working abroad along with subjects like National Agriculture Market and Aspirational District Programme were also discussed.

In the review of the progress of Aspirational District Programme, the prime minister was informed about dashboard based on 49 performance indicators.

"Even slow-moving indicators like the status of nutrition have shown tremendous progress. It was also noted that some districts of Uttar Pradesh have shown impressive growth," the release said.

Calling it an act of national service, the prime minister laid stress on the importance of focussing on education and healthcare of tribal children. "He emphasized the need to decide on timelines to bring the backward districts up to the national average. He also stressed that young officers must be deployed in Aspirational Districts," the release said.

The prime minister was informed about the progress in the National Agriculture Market platform, which has helped in better price discovery. "E-payments are now being made directly into the account of farmers. Progress in the development of two integrated e-mandis in Jammu and Kashmir was also reviewed," the release said.

"Prime minister directed that based on e-models of demand aggregation, Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers'&nbsp;Welfare should work together on a new start-up model of logistics support, particularly with regard to the transfer of agricultural products from one state to another," the release said.

It said that all the states must come together and use a common, integrated platform for smooth operation.

"On the issue of stubble burning, Prime Minister directed Agriculture Ministry to give priority to the farmers of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the distribution of equipment to prevent such occurrences," the release said.

Modi reviewed the progress of infrastructure connectivity projects including Katra-Banihal Railway Line."He gave explicit instructions on speedy completion of the project by next year," the release said.

Several projects in the north-east like the widening and up-gradation of Aizawl-Tuipang highway project was also discussed.

"To provide faster and safer connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, the prime minister said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020," the release said.

On the renewable energy front, Prime Minister chaired discussions about the creation of an intra-state transmission system in eight renewable energy-rich states - Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

He enquired about difficulties being faced by solar and wind power companies in starting new projects, including in the land acquisition process. The prime minister congratulated the state governments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh for progress made in timely completion of the project related to the strengthening of transmission system beyond Vemagiri.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI' and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI' and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning. He said that transport and agriculture ministries should come together to develop an e-model of logistics support for agricultural products. The prime minister also called for deploying young officers in aspirational districts and setting timelines to bring them up to national average. According to an official release, prime minister gave explicit instructions for speedy completion of Katra-Banihal Railway Line by next year and said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020. He said that long-delayed projects should be expedited by the respective state governments and directed that regular reports on the progress of such projects be sent to his office. The release said that in the previous PRAGATI meetings, a total of 265 projects with a total investment of Rs 12.15 lakh crore, besides 47 schemes and grievances related to 17 sectors had been reviewed. The PRAGATI meeting -- ICT based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation -- witnessed a review of nine projects worth over Rs 61,000 crore related to 16 states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Grievances of Indian citizens working abroad along with subjects like National Agriculture Market and Aspirational District Programme were also discussed. In the review of the progress of Aspirational District Programme, the prime minister was informed about dashboard based on 49 performance indicators. "Even slow-moving indicators like the status of nutrition have shown tremendous progress. It was also noted that some districts of Uttar Pradesh have shown impressive growth," the release said. Calling it an act of national service, the prime minister laid stress on the importance of focussing on education and healthcare of tribal children. "He emphasized the need to decide on timelines to bring the backward districts up to the national average. He also stressed that young officers must be deployed in Aspirational Districts," the release said. The prime minister was informed about the progress in the National Agriculture Market platform, which has helped in better price discovery. "E-payments are now being made directly into the account of farmers. Progress in the development of two integrated e-mandis in Jammu and Kashmir was also reviewed," the release said. "Prime minister directed that based on e-models of demand aggregation, Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare should work together on a new start-up model of logistics support, particularly with regard to the transfer of agricultural products from one state to another," the release said. It said that all the states must come together and use a common, integrated platform for smooth operation. "On the issue of stubble burning, Prime Minister directed Agriculture Ministry to give priority to the farmers of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the distribution of equipment to prevent such occurrences," the release said. Modi reviewed the progress of infrastructure connectivity projects including Katra-Banihal Railway Line."He gave explicit instructions on speedy completion of the project by next year," the release said. Several projects in the north-east like the widening and up-gradation of Aizawl-Tuipang highway project was also discussed. "To provide faster and safer connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, the prime minister said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020," the release said. On the renewable energy front, Prime Minister chaired discussions about the creation of an intra-state transmission system in eight renewable energy-rich states - Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. He enquired about difficulties being faced by solar and wind power companies in starting new projects, including in the land acquisition process. The prime minister congratulated the state governments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh for progress made in timely completion of the project related to the strengthening of transmission system beyond Vemagiri.

PM Modi orders distribution of equipment to farmers on 'priority' to stop stubble burning

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