Delhi Special Court on Thursday granted anticipatory bail to former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-relief-for-chidambaram-as-supreme-court-rejects-bail-plea-247680">Finance Minister P Chidambaram</a> and his son Karti Chidambaram in both ED and CBI probe in the Aircel-Maxis case, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court turned down Chidambaram's bail plea in the INX media case stating that granting bail would affect the probe.

Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister.

KM Natraj, Additional Solicitor General, appearing for the ED and CBI in the Aircel-Maxis case, on Monday asserted that P Chidambaram, as finance minister, had granted approval beyond his capacity and benefited certain people and received kickbacks.

"These are serious economic offences which are a serious threat to the national economy and are white-collar crimes. As finance minister, he granted approval beyond his capacity, benefitted certain persons and received kickbacks," he told special CBI judge O P Saini.

O P Saini was hearing the petition filed by P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram seeking anticipatory bail in the case. The court reserved orders on the plea till September 5.

The case, which is being probed by the CBI and ED, relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister.

According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Delhi Special Court on Thursday granted anticipatory bail to former Finance Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in both ED and CBI probe in the Aircel-Maxis case, news agency ANI reported.

Delhi Special Court on Thursday granted anticipatory bail to former Finance Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in both ED and CBI probe in the Aircel-Maxis case, news agency ANI reported. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court turned down Chidambaram's bail plea in the INX media case stating that granting bail would affect the probe. Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister. KM Natraj, Additional Solicitor General, appearing for the ED and CBI in the Aircel-Maxis case, on Monday asserted that P Chidambaram, as finance minister, had granted approval beyond his capacity and benefited certain people and received kickbacks. "These are serious economic offences which are a serious threat to the national economy and are white-collar crimes. As finance minister, he granted approval beyond his capacity, benefitted certain persons and received kickbacks," he told special CBI judge O P Saini. O P Saini was hearing the petition filed by P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram seeking anticipatory bail in the case. The court reserved orders on the plea till September 5. The case, which is being probed by the CBI and ED, relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal. The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister. According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore. (With inputs from ANI)

Aircel-Maxis case: Delhi court grants interim bail to Chidambaram, son Karti 

The Supreme Court on Thursday turned down former Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-maintains-status-quo-extends-chidambarams-cbi-custody-till-september-5-247380">P Chidambaram's bail plea</a> stating that granting bail would affect the probe in the INX media case.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered maintenance of status quo in the INX Media case and directed that the CBI custody of arrested Congress leader and former Union finance minister P Chidambaram be extended till September 5.

During proceedings, the counsel appearing for the investigating agency submitted before a bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna that they do not want his custody, indicating that he should be sent to Tihar jail.

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Supreme Court says, “Granting anticipatory bail at the initial stage may frustrate the investigation....It’s not a fit case to grant anticipatory bail. Economic offences stand at different footing and it has to be dealt with different approach." <a href="https://t.co/L3j8ET8a6i">https://t.co/L3j8ET8a6i</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169478239296704513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The bench was hearing the petition filed by the Congress leader challenging his CBI custody.

Chidambaram`s lawyers - Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi - told the court that they will not press the petition for interim bail in the trial court until the apex court passes the order on September 5.

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Supreme Court says P Chidambaram can move regular bail application before the trial court, for regular bail. <a href="https://t.co/3TaMYpzfxj">https://t.co/3TaMYpzfxj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169480331516268544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After the Delhi High Court rejected Chidambaram's anticipatory bail plea on August 20, he was arrested and sent to the CBI's custody.&nbsp;

He has already been subjected to custodial interrogation by the agency for 12 days since then.

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After Supreme Court dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Congress leader P. Chidambaram being probed by ED in INX media case, he withdraws his appeal from the Court challenging trial court’s order of sending him to CBI custody. (File Pic) <a href="https://t.co/CEicgAXdC6">pic.twitter.com/CEicgAXdC6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169491712856576000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister.

The ED is also seeking his custodial interrogation related to money laundering allegations. The Supreme Court, however, has granted him interim protection from arrest by the ED till September 5.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Thursday turned down former Finance Minister P Chidambaram's bail plea stating that granting bail would affect the probe in the INX media case.

The Supreme Court on Thursday turned down former Finance Minister P Chidambaram's bail plea stating that granting bail would affect the probe in the INX media case. The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered maintenance of status quo in the INX Media case and directed that the CBI custody of arrested Congress leader and former Union finance minister P Chidambaram be extended till September 5. During proceedings, the counsel appearing for the investigating agency submitted before a bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna that they do not want his custody, indicating that he should be sent to Tihar jail. Supreme Court says, “Granting anticipatory bail at the initial stage may frustrate the investigation....It’s not a fit case to grant anticipatory bail. Economic offences stand at different footing and it has to be dealt with different approach." https://t.co/L3j8ET8a6i — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × The bench was hearing the petition filed by the Congress leader challenging his CBI custody. Chidambaram`s lawyers - Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi - told the court that they will not press the petition for interim bail in the trial court until the apex court passes the order on September 5. Supreme Court says P Chidambaram can move regular bail application before the trial court, for regular bail. https://t.co/3TaMYpzfxj — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × After the Delhi High Court rejected Chidambaram's anticipatory bail plea on August 20, he was arrested and sent to the CBI's custody. He has already been subjected to custodial interrogation by the agency for 12 days since then. After Supreme Court dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Congress leader P. Chidambaram being probed by ED in INX media case, he withdraws his appeal from the Court challenging trial court’s order of sending him to CBI custody. (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/CEicgAXdC6 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister. The ED is also seeking his custodial interrogation related to money laundering allegations. The Supreme Court, however, has granted him interim protection from arrest by the ED till September 5. (With inputs from ANI)

INX media case: No relief for Chidambaram as Supreme Court rejects bail plea

In view of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-water-level-recedes-in-mumbai-ndrf-teams-on-standby-247715">forecast of heavy rains</a>, all schools and junior colleges in Mumbai, Thane and Konkan regions will remain closed on September 5, informed Maharashtra education minister Ashish Shelar.Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday declared that schools under its jurisdiction will be used as shelters for housing people stranded due to rain.

On Wednesday, BMC Additional Municipal Commissioner, A Jarhad, visited Manohardas school near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, to take stock of the situation and to ensure people stranded due to rains were being taken care of.

As incessant rains lashed Mumbai and Maharashtra, life was thrown out of gear with delay in train and flight services causing great inconvenience to passengers.

However, train services resumed on Kurla to Kalyan route and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Goregaon route after rains relented late on Wednesday evening.

Private bus services also resumed after water receded in Dadar.

Flight operations have also been severely hit due to rains.

Air India tweeted on Wednesday, "Passenger Alert !! Due to heavy rains, flights out of Mumbai will be delayed. Passengers are requested to check flight status through Air India website, Mobile App or Customer care."

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in several parts of the city and suburbs in the next 48 hours.

"Mumbai most likely to get continuous rains and showers with the possibility of extremely heavy falls at isolated places in city and suburbs for the next 48 hours," an IMD release read.

The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the maximum and minimum temperature is most likely to remain around 25 degree Celcius and 23 degree Celcius, respectively.

Relentless rains in several parts across Maharashtra has resulted in massive water logging and flood-like situation in some regions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In view of the forecast of heavy rains, all schools and junior colleges in Mumbai, Thane and Konkan regions will remain closed on September 5, informed Maharashtra education minister Ashish Shelar.

In view of the forecast of heavy rains, all schools and junior colleges in Mumbai, Thane and Konkan regions will remain closed on September 5, informed Maharashtra education minister Ashish Shelar.Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday declared that schools under its jurisdiction will be used as shelters for housing people stranded due to rain. On Wednesday, BMC Additional Municipal Commissioner, A Jarhad, visited Manohardas school near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, to take stock of the situation and to ensure people stranded due to rains were being taken care of. As incessant rains lashed Mumbai and Maharashtra, life was thrown out of gear with delay in train and flight services causing great inconvenience to passengers. However, train services resumed on Kurla to Kalyan route and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Goregaon route after rains relented late on Wednesday evening. Private bus services also resumed after water receded in Dadar. Flight operations have also been severely hit due to rains. Air India tweeted on Wednesday, "Passenger Alert !! Due to heavy rains, flights out of Mumbai will be delayed. Passengers are requested to check flight status through Air India website, Mobile App or Customer care." The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in several parts of the city and suburbs in the next 48 hours. "Mumbai most likely to get continuous rains and showers with the possibility of extremely heavy falls at isolated places in city and suburbs for the next 48 hours," an IMD release read. The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the maximum and minimum temperature is most likely to remain around 25 degree Celcius and 23 degree Celcius, respectively. Relentless rains in several parts across Maharashtra has resulted in massive water logging and flood-like situation in some regions.

Maharashtra rains: Schools, junior colleges to remain closed in Mumbai and Thane

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-russia-on-three-day-visit-247476">Narendra Modi and Russian President</a> Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid a visit to the 'Zvezda'&nbsp;Shipbuilding Complex with an aim to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area.

"Zvezda" Shipbuilding Complex is a project of strategic importance for Russia's Far Eastern region and the domestic shipbuilding industry that is implemented under the authority of the Russian President, the Government of the Russian Federation and the Consortium of JSC Rosneftegaz, Rosneft and Gazprombank.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Russia: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin hug and shake hands before their departure for Zvezda ship-building complex, Vladivostok. (Earlier visuals) <a href="https://t.co/swHrcvPkVQ">https://t.co/swHrcvPkVQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/U1187W5vxs">pic.twitter.com/U1187W5vxs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169115183601442816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The construction of the complex started in 2009, while the ceremonial start-up of the new shipyard production took place on September 1, 2016, in the presence of Putin.

The largest shipbuilding complex in the country has been built in the Bay of Bolshoy Kamen, Primorsky region on the basis of the Far Eastern Shipbuilding and Ship-Repairing Center (FESSC), and the Far Eastern Shipyard "Zvezda".

The Complex is located at a distance of 130 kilometres and 2hr 30min hours from the FESSC campus.

PM Modi arrived here earlier today, on a two-day visit, to hold talks with Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum to give a new impetus to bilateral ties between India and Russia.

India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries.

In his departure statement, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid a visit to the 'Zvezda' Shipbuilding Complex with an aim to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid a visit to the 'Zvezda' Shipbuilding Complex with an aim to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area. "Zvezda" Shipbuilding Complex is a project of strategic importance for Russia's Far Eastern region and the domestic shipbuilding industry that is implemented under the authority of the Russian President, the Government of the Russian Federation and the Consortium of JSC Rosneftegaz, Rosneft and Gazprombank. #WATCH Russia: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin hug and shake hands before their departure for Zvezda ship-building complex, Vladivostok. (Earlier visuals) https://t.co/swHrcvPkVQ pic.twitter.com/U1187W5vxs — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × The construction of the complex started in 2009, while the ceremonial start-up of the new shipyard production took place on September 1, 2016, in the presence of Putin. The largest shipbuilding complex in the country has been built in the Bay of Bolshoy Kamen, Primorsky region on the basis of the Far Eastern Shipbuilding and Ship-Repairing Center (FESSC), and the Far Eastern Shipyard "Zvezda". The Complex is located at a distance of 130 kilometres and 2hr 30min hours from the FESSC campus. PM Modi arrived here earlier today, on a two-day visit, to hold talks with Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum to give a new impetus to bilateral ties between India and Russia. India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries. In his departure statement, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.

At Zvezda shipbuilding complex, PM Modi gets glimpse of Russia's exemplary shipbuilding prowess

Equity benchmark indices were flat in a choppy trading session during early hours on Wednesday tracking subdued global cues.

At 10:15 am, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was up by 50 points at 36,613 while the Nifty 50 edged lower by 11 points to 10,809.

At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed.

Nifty pharma was down by 1.4 per cent. Auto, financial services, banks, media and realty too were in the red while FMCG, IT and metal witnessed marginal gains.

Traders said that due to lack of major domestic triggers, the market could be largely driven by global trends.Among stocks, Sun Pharma slipped by 3.8 per cent to Rs 422.30 per share while IndusInd Bank was down by 2.5 per cent.

Zee Entertainment, Tata Motors, Titan, Eicher Motors, Maruti and Reliance Industries showed some losses.

However, Bharti Infratel gained by 1.5 per cent while Vedanta was up by 1.4 per cent. State Bank of India, Indian Oil Corporation and Bharti Airtel showed marginal gains.

Meanwhile, Asian stocks bounced led by Chinese markets after a report showed growth in the country's service sector accelerating despite broader economic headwinds.

The Shanghai Composite Index added 0.45 per cent while MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan gained 0.5 per cent. But sentiment in the wider region remained subdued amid worries about a global recession.

 
&nbsp;

Equity benchmark indices were flat in a choppy trading session during early hours on Wednesday tracking subdued global cues. At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 50 points at 36,613 while the Nifty 50 edged lower by 11 points to 10,809.

Equity benchmark indices were flat in a choppy trading session during early hours on Wednesday tracking subdued global cues. At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 50 points at 36,613 while the Nifty 50 edged lower by 11 points to 10,809. At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed. Nifty pharma was down by 1.4 per cent. Auto, financial services, banks, media and realty too were in the red while FMCG, IT and metal witnessed marginal gains. Traders said that due to lack of major domestic triggers, the market could be largely driven by global trends.Among stocks, Sun Pharma slipped by 3.8 per cent to Rs 422.30 per share while IndusInd Bank was down by 2.5 per cent. Zee Entertainment, Tata Motors, Titan, Eicher Motors, Maruti and Reliance Industries showed some losses. However, Bharti Infratel gained by 1.5 per cent while Vedanta was up by 1.4 per cent. State Bank of India, Indian Oil Corporation and Bharti Airtel showed marginal gains. Meanwhile, Asian stocks bounced led by Chinese markets after a report showed growth in the country's service sector accelerating despite broader economic headwinds. The Shanghai Composite Index added 0.45 per cent while MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan gained 0.5 per cent. But sentiment in the wider region remained subdued amid worries about a global recession.

Equities flat in choppy session, Asian stocks bounce led by Chinese markets

Ahead of Assembly polls, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday announced a big raise in financial aid under its free coaching scheme 'Jai Bheem Mukhyamantri Yojana'&nbsp;and also extended the benefits of the scheme to the students of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and economically weak students of the general category.

The Delhi government has increased the financial assistance under the scheme, which was earlier meant only SC students, from Rs 40,000 to Rs 1 lakh.

"In this age of competition for admission in good medical and engineering colleges, the students need to take coaching. But some poor students lag behind for want of good coaching. That's why we came up with 'Jai Bheem Mukhyamantri Yojana'&nbsp;two years ago for SC students in which the financial aid of Rs 40,000 was given," Kejriwal told reporters at a press conference.

"Now, we have found the amount is too low and there is a need to help students from other categories as well. It has been decided to raise the amount provided under the scheme from Rs 40,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The scheme will now also be extended to all students from SCs, OBCs and economically weak in the general category," he added.

Talking about the eligibility criteria, the Chief Minister said, "There is a condition for this scheme. The student will have to be from Delhi. He or she should have done Classes 10 and 12 from Delhi. Only then, they will be eligible for this scheme. The family income should be less than Rs 8 lakh per annum."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Assembly polls, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday announced a big raise in financial aid under its free coaching scheme 'Jai Bheem Mukhyamantri Yojana' and also extended the benefits of the scheme to the students of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and economically weak students of the general category.

Ahead of Assembly polls, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday announced a big raise in financial aid under its free coaching scheme 'Jai Bheem Mukhyamantri Yojana' and also extended the benefits of the scheme to the students of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and economically weak students of the general category. The Delhi government has increased the financial assistance under the scheme, which was earlier meant only SC students, from Rs 40,000 to Rs 1 lakh. "In this age of competition for admission in good medical and engineering colleges, the students need to take coaching. But some poor students lag behind for want of good coaching. That's why we came up with 'Jai Bheem Mukhyamantri Yojana' two years ago for SC students in which the financial aid of Rs 40,000 was given," Kejriwal told reporters at a press conference. "Now, we have found the amount is too low and there is a need to help students from other categories as well. It has been decided to raise the amount provided under the scheme from Rs 40,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The scheme will now also be extended to all students from SCs, OBCs and economically weak in the general category," he added. Talking about the eligibility criteria, the Chief Minister said, "There is a condition for this scheme. The student will have to be from Delhi. He or she should have done Classes 10 and 12 from Delhi. Only then, they will be eligible for this scheme. The family income should be less than Rs 8 lakh per annum."

Delhi government extends free coaching facility to OBC, poor students

Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) on Tuesday announced a reduction in the convenience fees charged from the customers for booking e-tickets online through its website.

The company will now charge Rs 15 per ticket for booking Non-AC classes online while it will charge Rs 30 per ticket for booking AC and First Classes tickets.

It is a 25 per cent&nbsp;decrease in the earlier service charges of Rs 20 per ticket for Non-AC Class tickets and Rs 40 per ticket for AC First class.

To incentivise customers to make online payment through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) applications, from November 1, the company has further decided to charge only Rs 10 per ticket for booking Non-AC class tickets and Rs 20 per ticket for AC and First Class tickets for customers paying through the two applications.

The company further announced that it is focusing on the capacity enhancement of the existing ticketing and e-ticketing system to support more ticket bookings.

"IRCTC is also focusing on the capacity enhancement of the ticketing system to support more number of ticket bookings in the near future and to also modernize the e-ticketing system in synchronization with the modernization of the Indian Railway Passenger Booking System which currently has an inventory of 10 lakh reserved tickets per day," the press release read.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) on Tuesday announced a reduction in the convenience fees charged from the customers for booking e-tickets online through its website.

Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) on Tuesday announced a reduction in the convenience fees charged from the customers for booking e-tickets online through its website. The company will now charge Rs 15 per ticket for booking Non-AC classes online while it will charge Rs 30 per ticket for booking AC and First Classes tickets. It is a 25 per cent decrease in the earlier service charges of Rs 20 per ticket for Non-AC Class tickets and Rs 40 per ticket for AC First class. To incentivise customers to make online payment through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) applications, from November 1, the company has further decided to charge only Rs 10 per ticket for booking Non-AC class tickets and Rs 20 per ticket for AC and First Class tickets for customers paying through the two applications. The company further announced that it is focusing on the capacity enhancement of the existing ticketing and e-ticketing system to support more ticket bookings. "IRCTC is also focusing on the capacity enhancement of the ticketing system to support more number of ticket bookings in the near future and to also modernize the e-ticketing system in synchronization with the modernization of the Indian Railway Passenger Booking System which currently has an inventory of 10 lakh reserved tickets per day," the press release read.

IRCTC announces reduction in convenience fee on e-tickets

Iran's foreign minister said on Tuesday Tehran would further cut its commitments under a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lots-to-work-out-iran-nuclear-deal-still-very-fragile-french-foreign-minister-247457">2015 nuclear deal</a> unless European states acted to salvage the pact by Thursday, but that this did not mean the "end of talks", Iranian news agencies reported.

Mohammad Javad Zarif said President Hassan Rouhani would soon announce details of the cuts, according to the semi-official news ISNA. "Implementation of this step does not mean the end of talks," he added.

France has proposed offering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-able-to-resume-production-of-20-enriched-uranium-in-2-days-iran-atomic-agency-247375">Iran</a> about $15 billion in credit lines until year-end if Tehran comes fully back into compliance with the deal, a move that hinges on Washington not blocking it, Western and Iranian sources said.

US sanctions Iran space program

Meanwhile, the United States imposed sanctions on Iran's civilian space agency and two research organizations on Tuesday, saying they were being used to advance Tehran's ballistic missile programme.

The US&nbsp;Treasury sanctions targeted the Iran Space Agency, Iran Space Research Center and the Astronautics Research Institute, according to a statement on its website.

"The United States will not allow Iran to use its space launch programme as cover to advance its ballistic missile programs," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

He said Iran's Aug. 29 attempt to test a space launch vehicle underscored "the urgency of the threat."

An Iranian rocket exploded on its launch pad at Imam Khomeini Space Center in northern Iran before its scheduled launch last Thursday. The explosion followed Iran's failed attempt to launch a satellite in January.

The sanctions, part of a years-long US&nbsp;pressure campaign to keep Iran from developing nuclear weapons, are the first imposed on Iran's space agencies, according to the State Department. The United States fears long-range ballistic technology used to put satellites into orbit could also be used to launch nuclear warheads.

The Iran Space Agency develops satellites and launch vehicle technology, and works with the Iran Space Research Center on day-to-day tasks as well as research and development, according to the State Department. The two have also worked with a sanctioned liquid propellant ballistic missile organisation, Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, the State Department said.

The Astronautics Research Institute has managed the space vehicle launch project, according to the department.

Tehran denies its space activity is a cover for developing weapon launches.

On Friday, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump posted on Twitter a photo of what appeared to be the site of the failed Iranian satellite launch.

"These designations should serve as a warning to the international scientific community that collaborating with Iran’s space programme could contribute to Tehran’s ability to develop a nuclear weapon delivery system," Pompeo said.

Trump withdrew from a 2015 multi-national nuclear deal with Iran, saying it did not go far enough.

Iran's foreign minister said on Tuesday Tehran would further cut its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal unless European states acted to salvage the pact by Thursday, but that this did not mean the "end of talks", Iranian news agencies reported.

Iran's foreign minister said on Tuesday Tehran would further cut its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal unless European states acted to salvage the pact by Thursday, but that this did not mean the "end of talks", Iranian news agencies reported. Mohammad Javad Zarif said President Hassan Rouhani would soon announce details of the cuts, according to the semi-official news ISNA. "Implementation of this step does not mean the end of talks," he added. France has proposed offering Iran about $15 billion in credit lines until year-end if Tehran comes fully back into compliance with the deal, a move that hinges on Washington not blocking it, Western and Iranian sources said. US sanctions Iran space program Meanwhile, the United States imposed sanctions on Iran's civilian space agency and two research organizations on Tuesday, saying they were being used to advance Tehran's ballistic missile programme. The US Treasury sanctions targeted the Iran Space Agency, Iran Space Research Center and the Astronautics Research Institute, according to a statement on its website. "The United States will not allow Iran to use its space launch programme as cover to advance its ballistic missile programs," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. He said Iran's Aug. 29 attempt to test a space launch vehicle underscored "the urgency of the threat." An Iranian rocket exploded on its launch pad at Imam Khomeini Space Center in northern Iran before its scheduled launch last Thursday. The explosion followed Iran's failed attempt to launch a satellite in January. The sanctions, part of a years-long US pressure campaign to keep Iran from developing nuclear weapons, are the first imposed on Iran's space agencies, according to the State Department. The United States fears long-range ballistic technology used to put satellites into orbit could also be used to launch nuclear warheads. The Iran Space Agency develops satellites and launch vehicle technology, and works with the Iran Space Research Center on day-to-day tasks as well as research and development, according to the State Department. The two have also worked with a sanctioned liquid propellant ballistic missile organisation, Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, the State Department said. The Astronautics Research Institute has managed the space vehicle launch project, according to the department. Tehran denies its space activity is a cover for developing weapon launches. On Friday, US President Donald Trump posted on Twitter a photo of what appeared to be the site of the failed Iranian satellite launch. "These designations should serve as a warning to the international scientific community that collaborating with Iran’s space programme could contribute to Tehran’s ability to develop a nuclear weapon delivery system," Pompeo said. Trump withdrew from a 2015 multi-national nuclear deal with Iran, saying it did not go far enough.

Iran warns of further retreat from nuclear deal if no European action by Thursday

In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for Wednesday in Mumbai, all schools shall remain closed today.

Hours of incessant rainfall in Mumbai and adjoining districts led to water-logging in several parts of the city on Wednesday.

Water-logging occurred in the areas near King Circle railway station and Gandhi market.

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Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation PRO: In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for rest of the day, schools shall remain closed today. Principals of schools where students are already in, are requested to take precautions &amp; ensure that they are sent back home carefully&amp;safely
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Earlier on Tuesday, Mumbai police had warned the public of heavy rainfall requesting them to take precautions.

"IMD authorities have indicated high rainfall weather for Mumbai and other adjoining districts for the next two days. Please take adequate precautions and ensure safety. Dial 100 in case of an emergency. Take care Mumbai," a tweet by the official handle of the Mumbai police read.

The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the maximum and minimum temperatures are most likely to remain around 29 degree Celcius and 24 degree Celcius respectively.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for Wednesday in Mumbai, all schools shall remain closed today. Hours of incessant rainfall in Mumbai and adjoining districts led to water-logging in several parts of the city on Wednesday.

In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for Wednesday in Mumbai, all schools shall remain closed today. Hours of incessant rainfall in Mumbai and adjoining districts led to water-logging in several parts of the city on Wednesday. Water-logging occurred in the areas near King Circle railway station and Gandhi market. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation PRO: In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for rest of the day, schools shall remain closed today. Principals of schools where students are already in, are requested to take precautions & ensure that they are sent back home carefully&safely — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × Earlier on Tuesday, Mumbai police had warned the public of heavy rainfall requesting them to take precautions. "IMD authorities have indicated high rainfall weather for Mumbai and other adjoining districts for the next two days. Please take adequate precautions and ensure safety. Dial 100 in case of an emergency. Take care Mumbai," a tweet by the official handle of the Mumbai police read. The weather forecasting agency has predicted that the maximum and minimum temperatures are most likely to remain around 29 degree Celcius and 24 degree Celcius respectively.

Heavy rains lash Mumbai, schools shut after IMD's warning

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the unique Water Metro project will become operational by March next year in the state and added that it would require the efforts of all stakeholders.

"Water Metro is the first water transport system of its kind in India. The project will be implemented in a timely manner and the first phase will become a reality in March 2020. This will require the support of all representatives," Vijayan said at an event for the ground-breaking ceremony of the first terminal of the water metro.

The inauguration of Maharaja's College - Thykoodam stretch and stone-laying of Petta- SN Junction stretch was also carried out by the Kerala CM at the event attended by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri.

Stressing upon the need for infrastructure development, Vijayan said, "The aim is to improve the infrastructure and building upon the trust of the people and implementing the development work. The government has already begun the process of developing the infrastructure."

The Water Metro is an integrated water transport project connecting 10 islands in Kochi's suburbs.

Under the Water Metro project, a total of 78 fast, fuel-efficient, air-conditioned boats will ply on 15 routes covering a distance of 76 km through Kochi backwaters.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the unique Water Metro project will become operational by March next year in the state and added that it would require the efforts of all stakeholders.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the unique Water Metro project will become operational by March next year in the state and added that it would require the efforts of all stakeholders. "Water Metro is the first water transport system of its kind in India. The project will be implemented in a timely manner and the first phase will become a reality in March 2020. This will require the support of all representatives," Vijayan said at an event for the ground-breaking ceremony of the first terminal of the water metro. The inauguration of Maharaja's College - Thykoodam stretch and stone-laying of Petta- SN Junction stretch was also carried out by the Kerala CM at the event attended by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri. Stressing upon the need for infrastructure development, Vijayan said, "The aim is to improve the infrastructure and building upon the trust of the people and implementing the development work. The government has already begun the process of developing the infrastructure." The Water Metro is an integrated water transport project connecting 10 islands in Kochi's suburbs. Under the Water Metro project, a total of 78 fast, fuel-efficient, air-conditioned boats will ply on 15 routes covering a distance of 76 km through Kochi backwaters.

Kochi's water metro to become operational by March: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that Indo-Pacific is the logical step after Act East for India.

"The Indo-pacific is not tomorrow's forecast, but yesterday's reality. The Indo-Pacific naturally means different things to different powers, but it is undeniably a priority for all of them. For India, it is the logical step after Act East and a break out from the confines of South Asia," Jaishankar said during his address at the Indian Ocean Conference.

"For Japan, the movement into the Indian Ocean is the key to its strategic normalisation. For the United States, a unified theatre, aggressive burden-sharing requirements... and the stakes are high for China as well because its naval capabilities are indeed a prerequisite to its emergence as a global power. The ASEAN is the latest to make its move in this regard and it has tabled an approach on the Indo-Pacific as well," he continued.

"What we can no longer doubt that this is unquestionably the era for the contemporary version of the Great Game where multiple players with diverse ambitions display their strategic skills," said the EAM.

"The Indo-Pacific may be a fashion as a strategic concept right now, but the fact is it has been an economic and cultural reality for centuries. after all Indian and Arabs have left their imprint all the way up to the eastern coast of China. In fact, this reality is not remote at all and the seamlessness of waters only sharpens the appetite of western powers who enter it," he added.

"The British empire operated its own version of the Indo-Pacific even if it was not free or open. Its visualisation of both resources and interests was a cross integrated zone explaining many of the events of the 19th and 20th century. Other powers, in turn, followed the approach of the dominant one. If Indian troops fought in the Boxer Rebellion of 1901, the Japanese marines too intervened in Singapore in 1950. And not least it was the enormous logistical effort from India by the Anglo-American alliance that sustained China in its war against Japan after 1942," the EAM said.

"Strengthening a sense of extended neighbourhood is part of India's reclaiming of history. Its cultural basis is so visible that it needs little affirmation whether it is Southeast Asia, Gulf or Central Asia," Jaishankar also stated.

"Even its economic bases are now strengthening as trade, investment and mobility make an impact. What it lacks is that connectivity underpinning that was disrupted seven decades ago. As our connectivity, vision, and capabilities expand this critical road (Indian Ocean) can be played once again," he said.

"Giving the steady externalisation of its economy, and the shifting focus towards the East, India cannot remain unaffected by developments that impinge on the freedom of navigation or of overflight. The conceptual justification, therefore, centres around the expanding interests of India. It is buttressed by its self-perception as a rule-abiding power that contributes positively to global commerce," the EAM added.

"Given that its core interests are in the Indian Ocean, a presence beyond also contributes to ensuring a peaceful periphery. Since maritime activity has such a profound impact on overall equations, India's participation goes some way in contributing to a stable balance of power in Asia. While much of this advocacy would focus on the expansion of its interests, the fact remains that where India can really make a difference is in the Indian Ocean itself," said Jaishankar.

"For India, getting its Indo-Pacific approach right rests on ensuring that it gets its Indian Ocean strategy even more correctly," he said while also shedding light on the SAGAR initiative during his address.

The EAM also threw light on India's comprehensive maritime strategy, adding that it can be best depicted through concentric circles in India's case.

"A comprehensive maritime strategy naturally has a spectrum of activities and these in India's case, are best depicted in terms of concentric circles. The core is constituted by a combination of the maritime infrastructure of the homeland, development of island assets, connectivity to immediate neighbours with littoral implications and capabilities which can be brought to bear on a daily basis," he said.

"The next circle includes the maritime space beyond India's waters and its immediate island neighbours like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles...The outermost circle takes India into the Pacific, engaging convergent interests to ensure core security while promoting stable periphery," the EAM added.

Jaishankar also talked about the Chabahar port during his address on Tuesday and outlined the sea access it can provide to Afghanistan. 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that Indo-Pacific is the logical step after Act East for India. "The Indo-pacific is not tomorrow's forecast, but yesterday's reality.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that Indo-Pacific is the logical step after Act East for India. "The Indo-pacific is not tomorrow's forecast, but yesterday's reality. The Indo-Pacific naturally means different things to different powers, but it is undeniably a priority for all of them. For India, it is the logical step after Act East and a break out from the confines of South Asia," Jaishankar said during his address at the Indian Ocean Conference. "For Japan, the movement into the Indian Ocean is the key to its strategic normalisation. For the United States, a unified theatre, aggressive burden-sharing requirements... and the stakes are high for China as well because its naval capabilities are indeed a prerequisite to its emergence as a global power. The ASEAN is the latest to make its move in this regard and it has tabled an approach on the Indo-Pacific as well," he continued. "What we can no longer doubt that this is unquestionably the era for the contemporary version of the Great Game where multiple players with diverse ambitions display their strategic skills," said the EAM. "The Indo-Pacific may be a fashion as a strategic concept right now, but the fact is it has been an economic and cultural reality for centuries. after all Indian and Arabs have left their imprint all the way up to the eastern coast of China. In fact, this reality is not remote at all and the seamlessness of waters only sharpens the appetite of western powers who enter it," he added. "The British empire operated its own version of the Indo-Pacific even if it was not free or open. Its visualisation of both resources and interests was a cross integrated zone explaining many of the events of the 19th and 20th century. Other powers, in turn, followed the approach of the dominant one. If Indian troops fought in the Boxer Rebellion of 1901, the Japanese marines too intervened in Singapore in 1950. And not least it was the enormous logistical effort from India by the Anglo-American alliance that sustained China in its war against Japan after 1942," the EAM said. "Strengthening a sense of extended neighbourhood is part of India's reclaiming of history. Its cultural basis is so visible that it needs little affirmation whether it is Southeast Asia, Gulf or Central Asia," Jaishankar also stated. "Even its economic bases are now strengthening as trade, investment and mobility make an impact. What it lacks is that connectivity underpinning that was disrupted seven decades ago. As our connectivity, vision, and capabilities expand this critical road (Indian Ocean) can be played once again," he said. "Giving the steady externalisation of its economy, and the shifting focus towards the East, India cannot remain unaffected by developments that impinge on the freedom of navigation or of overflight. The conceptual justification, therefore, centres around the expanding interests of India. It is buttressed by its self-perception as a rule-abiding power that contributes positively to global commerce," the EAM added. "Given that its core interests are in the Indian Ocean, a presence beyond also contributes to ensuring a peaceful periphery. Since maritime activity has such a profound impact on overall equations, India's participation goes some way in contributing to a stable balance of power in Asia. While much of this advocacy would focus on the expansion of its interests, the fact remains that where India can really make a difference is in the Indian Ocean itself," said Jaishankar. "For India, getting its Indo-Pacific approach right rests on ensuring that it gets its Indian Ocean strategy even more correctly," he said while also shedding light on the SAGAR initiative during his address. The EAM also threw light on India's comprehensive maritime strategy, adding that it can be best depicted through concentric circles in India's case. "A comprehensive maritime strategy naturally has a spectrum of activities and these in India's case, are best depicted in terms of concentric circles. The core is constituted by a combination of the maritime infrastructure of the homeland, development of island assets, connectivity to immediate neighbours with littoral implications and capabilities which can be brought to bear on a daily basis," he said. "The next circle includes the maritime space beyond India's waters and its immediate island neighbours like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles...The outermost circle takes India into the Pacific, engaging convergent interests to ensure core security while promoting stable periphery," the EAM added. Jaishankar also talked about the Chabahar port during his address on Tuesday and outlined the sea access it can provide to Afghanistan.

Indo-Pacific logical step for India after Act East: S Jaishankar

The second de-orbiting maneuver for Chandrayan2 spacecraft was performed successfully in the wee hours of Wednesday, informed Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

"The maneuver was performed successfully today (September 04, 2019) beginning at 0342 hours Indian Standard Time (IST) as planned, using the onboard propulsion system," the space agency said in a statement.

The duration of the maneuver was 9 seconds and the orbit of Vikram Lander is 35 km x 101 km.

Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in an orbit of 96 km x 125 km and both the Orbiter and Lander are healthy, the space agency said.

With this maneuver the required orbit for the Vikram Lander to commence it descent towards the surface of the Moon is achieved.

"The Lander is scheduled to powered descent between 0100 - 0200 hours IST on September 07, which will be then followed by touchdown of Lander between 0130 - 0230 hours IST," it said.

The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to carry out a soft landing on the lunar surface.

This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon.After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14.

The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22. 
&nbsp;

The second de-orbiting maneuver for Chandrayan2 spacecraft was performed successfully in the wee hours of Wednesday, informed Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The second de-orbiting maneuver for Chandrayan2 spacecraft was performed successfully in the wee hours of Wednesday, informed Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). "The maneuver was performed successfully today (September 04, 2019) beginning at 0342 hours Indian Standard Time (IST) as planned, using the onboard propulsion system," the space agency said in a statement. The duration of the maneuver was 9 seconds and the orbit of Vikram Lander is 35 km x 101 km. Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter continues to orbit the Moon in an orbit of 96 km x 125 km and both the Orbiter and Lander are healthy, the space agency said. With this maneuver the required orbit for the Vikram Lander to commence it descent towards the surface of the Moon is achieved. "The Lander is scheduled to powered descent between 0100 - 0200 hours IST on September 07, which will be then followed by touchdown of Lander between 0130 - 0230 hours IST," it said. The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to carry out a soft landing on the lunar surface. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon.After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.

Chandrayaan-2 completes second de-orbiting maneuver successfully: ISRO

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