Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday said he was ready to face any investigation into the alleged phone tapping case which will now be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

"I am ready to face any investigation into the telephone taping issue. Let there be an international-level enquiry on phone taping charges against me," Kumaraswamy told reporters in Belthangady town.

Kumaraswamy also alleged that he was being targeted by regional electronic media channels.

He said, "There is false propaganda by electronic media in which they will not be successful. I have not done anything."

The ex-Chief Minister's comments came after his successor BS Yediyurappa's announcement on Sunday morning that the case will be handed over to the CBI.

The allegations of illegal phone tapping against HD Kumaraswamy initially stormed in after rebel JD(S) and Congress MLAs, who were later disqualified from their respective parties, claimed that the former chief minister got their phones tapped.

Former JD (S) state president AH Vishwanath, one of the dissenters, alleged that around 300 personal phones of leaders, including senior Congress leader Siddaramiah, were tapped.

Earlier in the day, Yediyurappa said that the phone tapping case filed during the previous Congress-JD(S) government will be handed over to the CBI as many prominent leaders, including Siddaramaiah, had demanded a probe into the matter.

"The phone tapping case filed during the previous government will be handed over to the CBI as many leaders including Congress legislative party leader (Siddaramaiah) have demanded a probe in this issue. People of Karnataka also want to know the truth so I have ordered to handover the case to the CBI," Yediyurappa told media persons.&nbsp;

Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday said he was ready to face any investigation into the alleged phone tapping case which will now be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday said he was ready to face any investigation into the alleged phone tapping case which will now be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). "I am ready to face any investigation into the telephone taping issue. Let there be an international-level enquiry on phone taping charges against me," Kumaraswamy told reporters in Belthangady town. Kumaraswamy also alleged that he was being targeted by regional electronic media channels. He said, "There is false propaganda by electronic media in which they will not be successful. I have not done anything." The ex-Chief Minister's comments came after his successor BS Yediyurappa's announcement on Sunday morning that the case will be handed over to the CBI. The allegations of illegal phone tapping against HD Kumaraswamy initially stormed in after rebel JD(S) and Congress MLAs, who were later disqualified from their respective parties, claimed that the former chief minister got their phones tapped. Former JD (S) state president AH Vishwanath, one of the dissenters, alleged that around 300 personal phones of leaders, including senior Congress leader Siddaramiah, were tapped. Earlier in the day, Yediyurappa said that the phone tapping case filed during the previous Congress-JD(S) government will be handed over to the CBI as many prominent leaders, including Siddaramaiah, had demanded a probe into the matter. "The phone tapping case filed during the previous government will be handed over to the CBI as many leaders including Congress legislative party leader (Siddaramaiah) have demanded a probe in this issue. People of Karnataka also want to know the truth so I have ordered to handover the case to the CBI," Yediyurappa told media persons.

Ready to face any investigation: HD Kumaraswamy on phone tapping case

After a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fir-registered-against-unknown-people-in-aiims-fire-incident-243796">major fire engulfed the teaching block</a> of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), over 90 per cent of patients were shifted to the RP Eye Centre on Saturday evening.

There was no loss or damage to life in the incident. As a precautionary measure, patients were admitted to the eye centre and other wings of the hospital temporarily from the adjoining AB Wing.

On Sunday, at least 30 patients of Paediatric Surgery from Day Care will be shifted soon to AB 5 Main Hospital.

"OPDs were turned into emergency wards. There are more than 200 benches in the OPD area. So in quick time, we accommodated patients there," Dr Shakti Gupta, Medical Superintendent of RPC at AIIMS told ANI.

"The main Eye Operation Theatre (OT) was converted into the labour room. We are happy to announce that in even in the time of crisis, our team managed to get two LSCS done in Eye main OT- one male and one female baby was delivered. One case of PPH also managed in Eye OT," he said.

Gupta said that the hospital has 10 beds in the daycare division.

"Now we have added five more beds to treat patients. We have one patient with postpartum bleeding (Excessive bleeding after childbirth), We have few patients admitted needing ICU support and they are being taken care," he added.

"All the patients of Gynae and Obs from 4A shifted to Main Hospital Cleaning done, Ward ready for use," Gupta said.

He said that all patients of Endocrinology, G I Surgery from AB 7 and C7 D7 shifted back to the hospital.

"Ward 4B ready for immediate use Casualty OT and Eye Emergency cleared and normal functioning restored. Emergency Patients from OPD shifted back and cleared and cleaning is done," he added.

Gupta further said,&nbsp;"Fumigation will be done of both Main OT and Casualty after the Glaucoma workshop. I appreciate all faculty, residents, nursing staff of RPC that Contingency Plan well executed. We hope that RPC will start functioning normally in a day or a two," said Dr Shakti.

He said that all senior Faculty members and resident doctors, nursing Officers, staff were on the board late night.

"Without their duty they came to deliver. AIIMS family members stood together to save Patients," said a senior doctor.

Dr Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Health and President, AIIMS, New Delhi is closely monitoring the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire and also regarding patient care.

The Minister also discussed to conduct more comprehensive special fire audit said Dr Aarti Vij, Spokesperson at AIIMS in a press statement.&nbsp;

After a major fire engulfed the teaching block of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), over 90 per cent of patients were shifted to the RP Eye Centre on Saturday evening.

After a major fire engulfed the teaching block of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), over 90 per cent of patients were shifted to the RP Eye Centre on Saturday evening. There was no loss or damage to life in the incident. As a precautionary measure, patients were admitted to the eye centre and other wings of the hospital temporarily from the adjoining AB Wing. On Sunday, at least 30 patients of Paediatric Surgery from Day Care will be shifted soon to AB 5 Main Hospital. "OPDs were turned into emergency wards. There are more than 200 benches in the OPD area. So in quick time, we accommodated patients there," Dr Shakti Gupta, Medical Superintendent of RPC at AIIMS told ANI. "The main Eye Operation Theatre (OT) was converted into the labour room. We are happy to announce that in even in the time of crisis, our team managed to get two LSCS done in Eye main OT- one male and one female baby was delivered. One case of PPH also managed in Eye OT," he said. Gupta said that the hospital has 10 beds in the daycare division. "Now we have added five more beds to treat patients. We have one patient with postpartum bleeding (Excessive bleeding after childbirth), We have few patients admitted needing ICU support and they are being taken care," he added. "All the patients of Gynae and Obs from 4A shifted to Main Hospital Cleaning done, Ward ready for use," Gupta said. He said that all patients of Endocrinology, G I Surgery from AB 7 and C7 D7 shifted back to the hospital. "Ward 4B ready for immediate use Casualty OT and Eye Emergency cleared and normal functioning restored. Emergency Patients from OPD shifted back and cleared and cleaning is done," he added. Gupta further said, "Fumigation will be done of both Main OT and Casualty after the Glaucoma workshop. I appreciate all faculty, residents, nursing staff of RPC that Contingency Plan well executed. We hope that RPC will start functioning normally in a day or a two," said Dr Shakti. He said that all senior Faculty members and resident doctors, nursing Officers, staff were on the board late night. "Without their duty they came to deliver. AIIMS family members stood together to save Patients," said a senior doctor. Dr Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Health and President, AIIMS, New Delhi is closely monitoring the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire and also regarding patient care. The Minister also discussed to conduct more comprehensive special fire audit said Dr Aarti Vij, Spokesperson at AIIMS in a press statement.

AIIMS fire: 90% patients were shifted to RP Eye Centre, situation back to normal

Rains lashed several parts of the city and its neighbourhood on Sunday bringing huge respite to the drought-hit Chennai.

A local resident, Suresh Balaji said, "This rain has brought relief to us. Although it is raining very little. If people follow water harvesting during this time then it will really help us in the future."

Puviyarasan, the Director of Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre told ANI, "Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to receive moderate rainfall for the next 48 hours. Since July both the places have received 16cm of rainfall, usually, it is 18cm."

"There are no special warnings for fishermen in Tamilnadu," he added.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall is predicted during the next 24 hours at most places over coastal Karnataka and south interior Karnataka and at a few places over the north interior of the state, the IMD said on Sunday.

"Heavy rain very likely to occur during the next 24 hours at isolated places in Karnataka," the IMD said.

The districts which are expected to receive heavy rainfall are Hassan, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Ramanagara, Mysore, Mandya Tumkur and Kolar.

Out of the 22 flood battered districts, the maximum deaths have occurred in Belagavi, where 15 people were killed.

According to data, at least 14 people remain missing.Rescue teams deployed in the state have rescued over seven lakh people till now, the report stated.&nbsp;

Rains lashed several parts of the city and its neighbourhood on Sunday bringing huge respite to the drought-hit Chennai. A local resident, Suresh Balaji said, "This rain has brought relief to us.

Rains lashed several parts of the city and its neighbourhood on Sunday bringing huge respite to the drought-hit Chennai. A local resident, Suresh Balaji said, "This rain has brought relief to us. Although it is raining very little. If people follow water harvesting during this time then it will really help us in the future." Puviyarasan, the Director of Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre told ANI, "Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to receive moderate rainfall for the next 48 hours. Since July both the places have received 16cm of rainfall, usually, it is 18cm." "There are no special warnings for fishermen in Tamilnadu," he added. Heavy rainfall is predicted during the next 24 hours at most places over coastal Karnataka and south interior Karnataka and at a few places over the north interior of the state, the IMD said on Sunday. "Heavy rain very likely to occur during the next 24 hours at isolated places in Karnataka," the IMD said. The districts which are expected to receive heavy rainfall are Hassan, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Ramanagara, Mysore, Mandya Tumkur and Kolar. Out of the 22 flood battered districts, the maximum deaths have occurred in Belagavi, where 15 people were killed. According to data, at least 14 people remain missing.Rescue teams deployed in the state have rescued over seven lakh people till now, the report stated.

Tamil Nadu to receive rains for next 48 hours: IMD

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy.

To resolve the existing issue, she urged the Centre and the state governments to provide employment to these sections by filling the vacant quota seats allocated in government-run institutions.

Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "In our country, the economic condition of SCs, STs, OBCs and upper caste poor is continuously deteriorating due to the economic slowdown. I urge the Central government as well as the state governments to pay special attention to these neglected sections of the society and provide them with all the benefits by introducing new schemes in order to eradicate poverty."

"In addition, I also want Centre and the state government to fill up the vacant quota seats of the government-run institutions by giving these people employment. The administration must carry out special campaigns for the same. These moves will improve their economic conditions slightly. These kinds of steps are also important in the interest of the country," she said in another tweet.

On Saturday also, the BSP Supremo expressed concern over the prevailing economic condition of the country and stated that an "economic recession" is looming over the country.

"In the midst of serious issues like widespread unemployment, poverty, price rise, illiteracy, health, tensions/violence, the threat of an economic recession is looming over the country," she said on micro-blogging site yesterday.

"The trader community is dejected and worried. After job cuts, they are forced to commit suicide. The Centre must take this seriously," she said in another tweet yesterday.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy. To resolve the existing issue, she urged the Centre and the state governments to provide employment to these sections by filling the vacant quota seats allocated in government-run institutions. Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "In our country, the economic condition of SCs, STs, OBCs and upper caste poor is continuously deteriorating due to the economic slowdown. I urge the Central government as well as the state governments to pay special attention to these neglected sections of the society and provide them with all the benefits by introducing new schemes in order to eradicate poverty." "In addition, I also want Centre and the state government to fill up the vacant quota seats of the government-run institutions by giving these people employment. The administration must carry out special campaigns for the same. These moves will improve their economic conditions slightly. These kinds of steps are also important in the interest of the country," she said in another tweet. On Saturday also, the BSP Supremo expressed concern over the prevailing economic condition of the country and stated that an "economic recession" is looming over the country. "In the midst of serious issues like widespread unemployment, poverty, price rise, illiteracy, health, tensions/violence, the threat of an economic recession is looming over the country," she said on micro-blogging site yesterday. "The trader community is dejected and worried. After job cuts, they are forced to commit suicide. The Centre must take this seriously," she said in another tweet yesterday.

Conditions of SCs, STs deteriorating due to economic slowdown: Mayawati

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan, on Sunday reviewed the situation at AIIMS after a major fire broke out at the facility on Saturday.

He held a meeting with AIIMS Director and other senior faculty members.

The fire which is suspected to have started from the microbiology laboratory area has damaged some laboratories and office areas.

However, the hospital area has not been affected by the fire and there has been no casualty.

As a precautionary measure, AIIMS administration had shifted patients from AB wing of the hospital to other areas in the building.

These patients have been shifted back to their respective wards in the AB wing.

The hospital along with the emergency department and emergency laboratories is fully functional.

AIIMS administration has initiated an internal enquiry to look into the cause of the fire and further strengthen preventive measure.

AIIMS has a regular fire prevention system.

There are fire personnel deployed round the clock with fire fighting safety systems being regularly tested including clearance of fire exits and corridors.

Awareness of fire fighting systems among staff is conducted regularly.

Director, AIIMS, New Delhi is holding a meeting with all heads of the departments and administrative staff to assess the situation for full restoration of laboratory services as soon as possible so that patient care does not suffer.

The fire broke which broke out on late Saturday afternoon caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block. Over 30 fire engines were pressed into action to douse the flames.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan, on Sunday reviewed the situation at AIIMS after a major fire broke out at the facility on Saturday. He held a meeting with AIIMS Director and other senior faculty members.

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan, on Sunday reviewed the situation at AIIMS after a major fire broke out at the facility on Saturday. He held a meeting with AIIMS Director and other senior faculty members. The fire which is suspected to have started from the microbiology laboratory area has damaged some laboratories and office areas. However, the hospital area has not been affected by the fire and there has been no casualty. As a precautionary measure, AIIMS administration had shifted patients from AB wing of the hospital to other areas in the building. These patients have been shifted back to their respective wards in the AB wing. The hospital along with the emergency department and emergency laboratories is fully functional. AIIMS administration has initiated an internal enquiry to look into the cause of the fire and further strengthen preventive measure. AIIMS has a regular fire prevention system. There are fire personnel deployed round the clock with fire fighting safety systems being regularly tested including clearance of fire exits and corridors. Awareness of fire fighting systems among staff is conducted regularly. Director, AIIMS, New Delhi is holding a meeting with all heads of the departments and administrative staff to assess the situation for full restoration of laboratory services as soon as possible so that patient care does not suffer. The fire broke which broke out on late Saturday afternoon caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block. Over 30 fire engines were pressed into action to douse the flames.

Health Minister takes stock of situation at AIIMS, meets director

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

"Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said.

The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together.

Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself.

"We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan.

Mentioning United States'&nbsp;response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India.

"Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions.

However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue.

Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions.

He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot.

"It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said.

Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised.

"Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country.

He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370.

"We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country.

Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."&nbsp;

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror. "Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said. The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself. "We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan. Mentioning United States' response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India. "Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions. However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue. Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions. He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot. "It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said. Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised. "Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country. He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370. "We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country. Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."

Now talks with Pakistan only on PoK: Rajnath Singh

The presence of America and Britain in the Gulf region brings insecurity, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards navy, Alireza Tangsiri, was reported as saying by the ILNA news agency.

Tensions have spiked between Iran and the US&nbsp;and Britain in the Gulf after the Islamic Republic shot down an American drone in June and seized a British tanker last month for violating maritime regulations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-documents-show-us-seeks-seizure-of-iranian-tanker-violating-sanctions-243610">Iran seized the tanker</a> two weeks after British Royal Marines detained an Iranian tanker on suspicion of violating European Union sanctions by taking oil to Syria, a close ally of Iran.

"The presence of America and England in this region means insecurity," he said.

Iran can provide security in the Gulf by forming a coalition with other countries in the region, Tangsiri said.

Tangsiri said that Iran wants peace and stability in the Gulf but appeared to issue a veiled threat by saying that if a ship that uses nuclear fuel were to be targeted in the Gulf, the countries in the south of the region will not have drinking water because of contamination, Mehr news agency reported.

The presence of America and Britain in the Gulf region brings insecurity, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards navy, Alireza Tangsiri, was reported as saying by the ILNA news agency.

The presence of America and Britain in the Gulf region brings insecurity, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards navy, Alireza Tangsiri, was reported as saying by the ILNA news agency. Tensions have spiked between Iran and the US and Britain in the Gulf after the Islamic Republic shot down an American drone in June and seized a British tanker last month for violating maritime regulations. Iran seized the tanker two weeks after British Royal Marines detained an Iranian tanker on suspicion of violating European Union sanctions by taking oil to Syria, a close ally of Iran. "The presence of America and England in this region means insecurity," he said. Iran can provide security in the Gulf by forming a coalition with other countries in the region, Tangsiri said. Tangsiri said that Iran wants peace and stability in the Gulf but appeared to issue a veiled threat by saying that if a ship that uses nuclear fuel were to be targeted in the Gulf, the countries in the south of the region will not have drinking water because of contamination, Mehr news agency reported.

Presence of US and UK in Gulf brings insecurity: Iran Revolutionary Guards navy chief

A major fire which broke out in the PC Block of the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Delhi on Saturday was brought under control, according to hospital sources.

A major fire which broke out in the PC Block of the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Delhi on Saturday was brought under control, according to hospital sources. As per Delhi Fire Services and AIIMS Fire Division, the fire has been put off completely. No loss or damage to life has been reported. Union Minister of Health, Dr Harsh Vardhan personally monitored the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire and regarding patient care on Saturday. It's expected that patients temporarily transferred from AB Wing will be shifted back by tomorrow. The Minister also discussed the need to conduct a special fire audit. AIIMS, Delhi regularly conducts this exercise, however, a more comprehensive special audit will be conducted. AIIMS Delhi: As per Delhi Fire Services&AIIMS Fire Division, fire has been put off completely. No loss/damage to life. Dr Harsh Vardhan, Min of Health&Family Welfare & Pre,AIIMS, Delhi personally monitored the efforts on-site towards extinguishing the fire&regarding patient care. https://t.co/gulhno1rG5 — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × A total of 34 fire tenders were pressed into service and firefighters were able to contain the fire from spreading to nearby blocks. The fire, which broke out late afternoon in the hospital caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block. As a precautionary measure, patients and other occupants from the AB 1 to AB 7 wards were evacuated to Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences and other safe areas. The PC Block is a non-patient block comprising of research labs, doctors rooms etc, however, it is interconnected to the Emergency Wing of the hospital. A short circuit is suspected to have caused the blaze. A little earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed the hope that the fire would quickly be brought under control and urged the people to remain calm. "The fire in AIIMS building will be brought under control at the earliest. Fire service trying its best to extinguish the fire. I appeal to everyone to maintain calm and allow the Fire Services personnel to do their work," Kejriwal's posted on his twitter handle. According to an AIIMS official, a total of 15,000 new patients visit the hospital, out of which almost one-third visit the Emergency wing.

Fire at AIIMS doused completely, no loss of life reported

A major fire which broke out in the PC Block of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-massive-fire-breaks-out-at-aiims-over-30-fire-tenders-at-spot-243657">All India Institute of Medical Science</a> (AIIMS) in Delhi on Saturday was brought under control, according to hospital sources. However, efforts to the douse the fire are still on.&nbsp;

A total of 34 fire tenders were pressed into service and firefighters were able to contain the fire from spreading to nearby blocks. No casualty has been reported.

The fire, which broke out late afternoon in the hospital caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block.

As a precautionary measure, patients and other occupants from the AB 1 to AB 7 wards were evacuated to Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences and other safe areas.

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Delhi: Latest visuals from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where a fire broke out earlier today. Fire-fighting operations continue <a href="https://t.co/DtaXWC0kV7">pic.twitter.com/DtaXWC0kV7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162776719989886976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The PC Block is a non-patient block comprising of research labs, doctors rooms etc, however, it is interconnected to the Emergency Wing of the hospital.

A short circuit is suspected to have caused the blaze.

A little earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed the hope that the fire would quickly be brought under control and urged the people to remain calm.

"The fire in AIIMS building will be brought under control at the earliest. Fire service trying its best to extinguish the fire. I appeal to everyone to maintain calm and allow the Fire Services personnel to do their work," Kejriwal's posted on his twitter handle.

According to an AIIMS official, a total of 15,000 new patients visit the hospital, out of which almost one-third visit the Emergency wing.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A major fire which broke out in the PC Block of the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Delhi on Saturday was brought under control, according to hospital sources. However, efforts to the douse the fire are still on. A total of 34 fire tenders were pressed into service and firefighters were able to contain the fire from spreading to nearby blocks. No casualty has been reported. The fire, which broke out late afternoon in the hospital caused extensive damages to the first, second and third floor of the PC Block. As a precautionary measure, patients and other occupants from the AB 1 to AB 7 wards were evacuated to Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences and other safe areas. Delhi: Latest visuals from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where a fire broke out earlier today. Fire-fighting operations continue pic.twitter.com/DtaXWC0kV7 — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × The PC Block is a non-patient block comprising of research labs, doctors rooms etc, however, it is interconnected to the Emergency Wing of the hospital. A short circuit is suspected to have caused the blaze. A little earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed the hope that the fire would quickly be brought under control and urged the people to remain calm. "The fire in AIIMS building will be brought under control at the earliest. Fire service trying its best to extinguish the fire. I appeal to everyone to maintain calm and allow the Fire Services personnel to do their work," Kejriwal's posted on his twitter handle. According to an AIIMS official, a total of 15,000 new patients visit the hospital, out of which almost one-third visit the Emergency wing.

Effort to douse fire at AIIMS continue, no casualty reported

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik led BJD government on Saturday reshuffled many IAS officers.

Senior IAS officer Gagan Kumar Dhal has been appointed the chairman of Odisha Forest Development Corporation Ltd (OFDC).

Earlier, Dhal was Commissioner, Agriculture Production. According to a statement, seven other IAS officers were reshuffled.

They were Suresh Chandra Mahapatra, Sudershan Pal Thakur, Pradipta Kumar Mohapatra, Mona Sharma, Sanjiv Chopra, Manoj Kumar Mishra, and Rudra Narayan Palai.

Mahapatra, Additional Chief Secretary of Forest and Environment Department, has been appointed Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary and Secretary of Planning and Convergence Department.

He is allowed to have the additional charge of Working Chairperson, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri.

Thakur, Director General of Training Coordination, Gopabandhu Academy of Administration, is allowed to hold the additional charge of Chief Administrator, KBK, Koraput, in addition to his own duties.

Mohapatra, Additional Chief Secretary of School and Mass Education Department, has been appointed Agriculture Production Commissioner vice transfer of Dhal.

He is allowed to have the additional charge of Additional Chief Secretary of School and Mass Education Department in addition to his own duties.

Sharma, Principal Secretary of Rural Development Department, has been allowed to have the additional charge of Principal Secretary of Forest and Environment Department in addition to her own duties.

Chopra, Principal Secretary of Industries Department with Additional Charge, Chairman, OMC Limited, is allowed to have the additional charge of Principal Secretary of Home Department in addition to his own duties.

IRTS officer Mishra, CRC and Special Secretary of Commerce and Transport Department, has been allowed to have the additional charge of Secretary, Electronics and Information Technology Department, in addition to his own duties.

Palai, Special Secretary of Electronics and Information Technology Department, has been appointed Special Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department.&nbsp;

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik led BJD government on Saturday reshuffled many IAS officers. Senior IAS officer Gagan Kumar Dhal has been appointed the chairman of Odisha Forest Development Corporation Ltd (OFDC).

In a major bureaucratic reshuffle by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik led BJD government on Saturday reshuffled many IAS officers. Senior IAS officer Gagan Kumar Dhal has been appointed the chairman of Odisha Forest Development Corporation Ltd (OFDC). Earlier, Dhal was Commissioner, Agriculture Production. According to a statement, seven other IAS officers were reshuffled. They were Suresh Chandra Mahapatra, Sudershan Pal Thakur, Pradipta Kumar Mohapatra, Mona Sharma, Sanjiv Chopra, Manoj Kumar Mishra, and Rudra Narayan Palai. Mahapatra, Additional Chief Secretary of Forest and Environment Department, has been appointed Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary and Secretary of Planning and Convergence Department. He is allowed to have the additional charge of Working Chairperson, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri. Thakur, Director General of Training Coordination, Gopabandhu Academy of Administration, is allowed to hold the additional charge of Chief Administrator, KBK, Koraput, in addition to his own duties. Mohapatra, Additional Chief Secretary of School and Mass Education Department, has been appointed Agriculture Production Commissioner vice transfer of Dhal. He is allowed to have the additional charge of Additional Chief Secretary of School and Mass Education Department in addition to his own duties. Sharma, Principal Secretary of Rural Development Department, has been allowed to have the additional charge of Principal Secretary of Forest and Environment Department in addition to her own duties. Chopra, Principal Secretary of Industries Department with Additional Charge, Chairman, OMC Limited, is allowed to have the additional charge of Principal Secretary of Home Department in addition to his own duties. IRTS officer Mishra, CRC and Special Secretary of Commerce and Transport Department, has been allowed to have the additional charge of Secretary, Electronics and Information Technology Department, in addition to his own duties. Palai, Special Secretary of Electronics and Information Technology Department, has been appointed Special Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department.

Major administrative reshuffle in Odisha, Gagan Dhal appointed OFDC chairman

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday.

"Since morning, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-section-144-relaxed-in-kishtwar-for-the-day-243587">relaxations on restrictions</a> have been provided in areas under 35 police stations across the length and breadth of the valley," Kansal said.

Kansal further added that there had been no untoward incidents reported from the region and the situation was slowly turning back to normal in the villages.

"There has been no untoward incident reported so far. Public transport has started plying and we are getting encouraging reports of normal movement from a lot of rural areas," he added.

Earlier today, restrictions under Section 144 were relaxed in Kishtwar too for the entire day.

Kansal expressed the hope that by Sunday the situation will be such that telephone services could once again be restored in almost all the areas of the Kashmir valley barring a few sensitive ones.

"We hope that by tomorrow evening, barring a few vulnerable areas, all telephone exchanges in Kashmir valley shall be made functional. Landlines and mobiles are already functional in Jammu. We have also opened up mobile internet with some functionality in at least 5 districts in Jammu," Kansal added.

Kansal said that by the end of Saturday, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional.

"As we speak, the authorities are on the job of releasing further telephone connections and we hope by the end of today, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional," he said while addressing a press conference.

"In the morning, I had clarified that we are beginning with primary schools largely located within the locality. We will move on to other schools as well but make a beginning with primary schools," he added.

Kansal said the relaxations provided resulted in people coming out, traffic plying and men and material being moved.

"We expect that areas and regions in which were relaxed today will also see relaxations tomorrow. Local authorities will asses further the fresh areas which can be considered for relaxation for prohibitory orders," he said.

He also said that there have been six-seven disturbances largely in the area where relaxations was not given.

"While there have been no reported incidents in areas where relaxations were given, there have been six-seven incidents of disturbances largely in the area in which relaxations were not given. We also have reports of about 8 injuries but all the injured are reported to be stable," he said.

Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday.

Relaxations have been provided in areas falling under 35 police stations in the Kashmir valley, said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal on Saturday. "Since morning, relaxations on restrictions have been provided in areas under 35 police stations across the length and breadth of the valley," Kansal said. Kansal further added that there had been no untoward incidents reported from the region and the situation was slowly turning back to normal in the villages. "There has been no untoward incident reported so far. Public transport has started plying and we are getting encouraging reports of normal movement from a lot of rural areas," he added. Earlier today, restrictions under Section 144 were relaxed in Kishtwar too for the entire day. Kansal expressed the hope that by Sunday the situation will be such that telephone services could once again be restored in almost all the areas of the Kashmir valley barring a few sensitive ones. "We hope that by tomorrow evening, barring a few vulnerable areas, all telephone exchanges in Kashmir valley shall be made functional. Landlines and mobiles are already functional in Jammu. We have also opened up mobile internet with some functionality in at least 5 districts in Jammu," Kansal added. Kansal said that by the end of Saturday, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional. "As we speak, the authorities are on the job of releasing further telephone connections and we hope by the end of today, nearly 23,000 landline connections across Kashmir Valley will be made functional," he said while addressing a press conference. "In the morning, I had clarified that we are beginning with primary schools largely located within the locality. We will move on to other schools as well but make a beginning with primary schools," he added. Kansal said the relaxations provided resulted in people coming out, traffic plying and men and material being moved. "We expect that areas and regions in which were relaxed today will also see relaxations tomorrow. Local authorities will asses further the fresh areas which can be considered for relaxation for prohibitory orders," he said. He also said that there have been six-seven disturbances largely in the area where relaxations was not given. "While there have been no reported incidents in areas where relaxations were given, there have been six-seven incidents of disturbances largely in the area in which relaxations were not given. We also have reports of about 8 injuries but all the injured are reported to be stable," he said. Apart from the relaxations, 2G mobile internet services were restored in Jammu, Reasi, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur districts of the region.Mobile internet services were suspended in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. On Friday, the government had decided to lift restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in a phased and gradual manner.

Relaxations in areas under 35 police stations in Valley: Jammu and Kashmir principal secretary

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-leaves-for-bhutan-on-two-day-visit-243542">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday expressed his gratitude towards Bhutan in his address from the Bhutanese capital city Thimpu.&nbsp;

PM Modi reiterated India's support to Bhutan and stated that the country holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.&nbsp;

"Sustainable growth is our key focus in Bhutan," the PM said lauding Bhutan for its approach to measure growth by happiness.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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PM Modi in a joint statement with Bhutan PM (Dr.) Lotay Tshering: Who will not want a friend and a neighbour like Bhutan. It is an honour for us that India is a part of the development of Bhutan <a href="https://t.co/Chpan5uZlT">pic.twitter.com/Chpan5uZlT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162693705201049600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In his statement, the prime minister hailed the Himalayan nation and said, "who would not want a friend and neighbour like Bhutan".

"It is an honour for India to be part of Bhutan's development," he said.&nbsp;

PM Modi announced that India will increase LPG supply to Bhutan from 700 to 1000 MT per month and an additional $100 million will be made available to Bhutan under a standby swap arrangement to meet the foreign exchange requirement.

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Prime Minister of Bhutan (Dr.) Lotay Tshering at Simtokha Dzong, Semtokha: India and Bhutan may vary in size but our beliefs, values and motivation are common. Today, I am overwhelmed with the sense pride that the two countries are living the definition of true friendship. <a href="https://t.co/liuJrUg21k">pic.twitter.com/liuJrUg21k</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162693065422888962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister launched RuPay Card in Bhutan by making a purchase&nbsp;at Simtokha Dzong Monastery and unveiled stamps to commemorate five decades of India-Bhutan Hydropower cooperation.

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Delighted to meet my friend, <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMBhutan</a>, Dr. Lotay Tshering. 
 
We had a comprehensive meeting, where we deliberated on the relations between India and Bhutan. 
 
There is great scope to further improve economic and cultural ties between our nations. <a href="https://t.co/fm6JzpC9Hz">pic.twitter.com/fm6JzpC9Hz</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1162707916836597760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Together with his Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering, PM Modi unveiled the Inauguration Plaque of the Ground Station for South Asian Satellite&nbsp;and offered his prayers at the Simtokha Dzong monastery.&nbsp;

Indian and Bhutanese leaders inaugurated 720MW Mangdechhu hydropower, a ground station build by ISRO at the cost of Rs 7 crore in Thimpu. The facility will help Bhutan use the transponder in the South Asian satellite. A total of 9 MoUs were exchanged by both sides.

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Bhutan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches RuPay Card in Bhutan by making a purchase, at Simtokha Dzong <a href="https://t.co/g7dfAROYCC">pic.twitter.com/g7dfAROYCC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162689355539984384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bhutanese PM Tshering welcomed PM Modi and hailed India-Bhutan ties. "India and Bhutan may vary in size but our beliefs, values and motivation are common. Today, I am overwhelmed with the sense pride that the two countries are living the definition of true friendship," Tshering said.&nbsp;

Lauding PM Modi's as a strong and dynamic leader "who can take bold decisions", Tshering said, "India's stature and influence has grown in the international arena and it has emerged as a global leader".

"I remember him (PM Modi) saying earlier that Bhutan and India are close not because we have open borders, but because we have opened our hearts to each other. Your visit this time shows how much you meant it," Tshering added.&nbsp;

<img alt="[PM Modi along with Bhutan PM at Simtokha Dzong at oldest castle monastery of Bhutan. (Picture courtesy: PMO)]" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="12659a94-47b6-478a-85bd-9e4c962977d9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_4.jpg" />

<img alt="[PM Modi along with Bhutan PM at Simtokha Dzong at oldest castle monastery of Bhutan. (Picture courtesy: PMO)]" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="57155035-66d4-4c03-9f70-1ea5a37c6866" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_6.jpg" />

[PM Modi along with Bhutan PM at Simtokha Dzong at oldest castle monastery of Bhutan. (Picture courtesy: PMO)]

PM Modi arrived in Bhutan earlier in the day and was greeted with a warm welcome. He was accorded Bhutanese Guard of Honour.

The prime minister was received by Tshering and others on his arrival at the Paro International Airport.

Earlier, PM Modi had tweeted, ''In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM the King, HM the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan."

PM Modi, in his pre-departure statement, said, ''India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries.''

On the second day of his visit, the PM Modi is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten. He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery.

This is PM Modi's first visit to Bhutan since the Doklam&nbsp;crisis. Bhutan was Modi's first foreign trip as prime minister when he first took charge in the year 2014.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed his gratitude towards Bhutan in his address from the Bhutanese capital city Thimpu. PM Modi reiterated India's support to Bhutan and stated that the country holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed his gratitude towards Bhutan in his address from the Bhutanese capital city Thimpu. PM Modi reiterated India's support to Bhutan and stated that the country holds a special place in the hearts of Indians. "Sustainable growth is our key focus in Bhutan," the PM said lauding Bhutan for its approach to measure growth by happiness. PM Modi in a joint statement with Bhutan PM (Dr.) Lotay Tshering: Who will not want a friend and a neighbour like Bhutan. It is an honour for us that India is a part of the development of Bhutan pic.twitter.com/Chpan5uZlT — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × In his statement, the prime minister hailed the Himalayan nation and said, "who would not want a friend and neighbour like Bhutan". "It is an honour for India to be part of Bhutan's development," he said. PM Modi announced that India will increase LPG supply to Bhutan from 700 to 1000 MT per month and an additional $100 million will be made available to Bhutan under a standby swap arrangement to meet the foreign exchange requirement. Prime Minister of Bhutan (Dr.) Lotay Tshering at Simtokha Dzong, Semtokha: India and Bhutan may vary in size but our beliefs, values and motivation are common. Today, I am overwhelmed with the sense pride that the two countries are living the definition of true friendship. pic.twitter.com/liuJrUg21k — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × The prime minister launched RuPay Card in Bhutan by making a purchase at Simtokha Dzong Monastery and unveiled stamps to commemorate five decades of India-Bhutan Hydropower cooperation. Delighted to meet my friend, @PMBhutan, Dr. Lotay Tshering. We had a comprehensive meeting, where we deliberated on the relations between India and Bhutan. There is great scope to further improve economic and cultural ties between our nations. pic.twitter.com/fm6JzpC9Hz — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 17, 2019 × Together with his Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering, PM Modi unveiled the Inauguration Plaque of the Ground Station for South Asian Satellite and offered his prayers at the Simtokha Dzong monastery. Indian and Bhutanese leaders inaugurated 720MW Mangdechhu hydropower, a ground station build by ISRO at the cost of Rs 7 crore in Thimpu. The facility will help Bhutan use the transponder in the South Asian satellite. A total of 9 MoUs were exchanged by both sides. Bhutan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches RuPay Card in Bhutan by making a purchase, at Simtokha Dzong pic.twitter.com/g7dfAROYCC — ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2019 × Bhutanese PM Tshering welcomed PM Modi and hailed India-Bhutan ties. "India and Bhutan may vary in size but our beliefs, values and motivation are common. Today, I am overwhelmed with the sense pride that the two countries are living the definition of true friendship," Tshering said. Lauding PM Modi's as a strong and dynamic leader "who can take bold decisions", Tshering said, "India's stature and influence has grown in the international arena and it has emerged as a global leader". "I remember him (PM Modi) saying earlier that Bhutan and India are close not because we have open borders, but because we have opened our hearts to each other. Your visit this time shows how much you meant it," Tshering added. [PM Modi along with Bhutan PM at Simtokha Dzong at oldest castle monastery of Bhutan. (Picture courtesy: PMO)] PM Modi arrived in Bhutan earlier in the day and was greeted with a warm welcome. He was accorded Bhutanese Guard of Honour. The prime minister was received by Tshering and others on his arrival at the Paro International Airport. Earlier, PM Modi had tweeted, ''In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM the King, HM the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan." PM Modi, in his pre-departure statement, said, ''India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries.'' On the second day of his visit, the PM Modi is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten. He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery. This is PM Modi's first visit to Bhutan since the Doklam crisis. Bhutan was Modi's first foreign trip as prime minister when he first took charge in the year 2014.

Who wouldn't want friend like Bhutan, honoured to be part of its development: PM Modi in Thimpu 

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