A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces'&nbsp;bases in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preventive-restrictions-to-rollback-in-phased-manner-says-jk-chief-secretary-schools-offices-open-from-monday-243363">Jammu and Kashmir</a> against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks.

Official sources told ANI on Friday that the high alert has been sounded in view of Pakistan's attempts to create disturbances in the Valley.

This comes after sources in the Indian Army said Pakistan has upscaled ceasefire violations in terms of area and weapon in the last few days.

On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators in the past few days and that such attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations.

On August 5, the Central government had announced its decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ever since the government announced its move on Article 370, the top brass of the Army has frequently undertaken visits to the Valley to review the security situation.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has also been camping in the Valley to review the situation on ground zero.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces' bases in Jammu and Kashmir against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks.

A high alert has been sounded at all Indian Army, Air Force, and security forces' bases in Jammu and Kashmir against the possible attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups to carry out attacks. Official sources told ANI on Friday that the high alert has been sounded in view of Pakistan's attempts to create disturbances in the Valley. This comes after sources in the Indian Army said Pakistan has upscaled ceasefire violations in terms of area and weapon in the last few days. On Thursday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had said that Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators in the past few days and that such attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations. On August 5, the Central government had announced its decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Ever since the government announced its move on Article 370, the top brass of the Army has frequently undertaken visits to the Valley to review the security situation. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has also been camping in the Valley to review the situation on ground zero.

High alert sounded at security bases in Jammu and Kashmir

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-in-jammu-and-kashmir-authorities-to-review-restrictions-243346">Jammu and Kashmir</a> Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation.&nbsp;

Subrahmanyam stated that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/governor-satya-pal-malik-directs-government-officers-to-resume-normal-functioning-in-jammu-and-kashmir-from-today-243304">preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir</a> were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy. He stated that the restrictions were placed after credible inputs were received on planned strikes in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"In implementing the decision taken last fortnight, cross-border terrorism required the government to put in place certain preventing steps. The important factor was credible inputs that such organisations were planning to undertake strikes in J&amp;K in the immediate future. Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement and telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools and colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in an accordance with provisions of law to maintain law and order," Subrahmanyam told reporters in Srinagar today.&nbsp;

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J&amp;K Chief Secy:Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement &amp; telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools &amp; colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in accordance with provisions of law to maintain law&amp;order <a href="https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz">https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162298625852133376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"No violence has been reported in the past five days despite concerted efforts from Pakistan," he stated.&nbsp;

Subrahmanyam added that while medical facilities continue to operate, schools and offices will resume after the weekend from Monday. "Government offices have already been made operational from today," he stated. Resumption of telephone lines will also be done in phases, he added.&nbsp;

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J&amp;K Chief Secretary, BVR Subrahmanyam in Srinagar: Schools will be opened after the weekend area by area. Movement of public transport to be made operational. Govt offices are functional from today. Telecom connectivity will be gradually eased and restored in a phased manner. <a href="https://t.co/z6k0hj58rV">pic.twitter.com/z6k0hj58rV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162298846321532928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Srinagar airport has been cleared for night flights, security forces continue to remain vigil," he noted.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary also said that the preventive detentions are currently under review and appropriate decisions will be made based on law and order assessments.&nbsp;

"The government's focus is on the earliest return to normalcy while ensuring that terrorist forces are given no opportunity to wreak havoc as in the past," he said.&nbsp;

He told reporters that at present, 12 of 22 districts are functioning normally in Jammu and Kashmir with some limited restrictions in 5 districts.&nbsp;

"The measures put in place have ensured that there has not been a single loss of life," Subrahmanyam said.&nbsp;

"Keeping in view the evolving situation and cooperation of people, we are now taking measures to ease the restrictions in a gradual calibrated manner after the reports that today's Friday prayers have gone quite peacefully. There would be easing of restrictions in the next few days in an orderly manner and restriction on movement would be removed area by area," said J&amp;K chief secretary.

"It is expected that in the next few days, as restrictions get eased life in Jammu and Kashmir will become completely normal. Roads are full of regular traffic and we expect to see an increase in it in coming few days," said Subrahmanyam.

As the restrictions on movement would be removed area by area, the movement of public transport would be allowed in these areas.&nbsp;

He further noted that telecom connectivity will gradually be restored in a phase-wise manner keeping in mind constant threat posed by terrorist's organizations in using mobile connectivity to organize terror actions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said.

This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it.

On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir.

The decision to lift the restrictions in J&amp;K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return.

Centre, last week, abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation. Subrahmanyam stated that the preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Friday briefed media on easing restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir and the overall situation. Subrahmanyam stated that the preventive restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were placed to maintain peace and that the focus remains on getting back to normalcy. He stated that the restrictions were placed after credible inputs were received on planned strikes in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported. "In implementing the decision taken last fortnight, cross-border terrorism required the government to put in place certain preventing steps. The important factor was credible inputs that such organisations were planning to undertake strikes in J&K in the immediate future. Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement and telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools and colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in an accordance with provisions of law to maintain law and order," Subrahmanyam told reporters in Srinagar today. J&K Chief Secy:Steps consequently taken included restrictions on free movement & telecom connectivity prevention of large gathering, closure of schools & colleges. A few preventive detentions of individuals were also made in accordance with provisions of law to maintain law&order https://t.co/6upFM4GGYz — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × "No violence has been reported in the past five days despite concerted efforts from Pakistan," he stated. Subrahmanyam added that while medical facilities continue to operate, schools and offices will resume after the weekend from Monday. "Government offices have already been made operational from today," he stated. Resumption of telephone lines will also be done in phases, he added. J&K Chief Secretary, BVR Subrahmanyam in Srinagar: Schools will be opened after the weekend area by area. Movement of public transport to be made operational. Govt offices are functional from today. Telecom connectivity will be gradually eased and restored in a phased manner. pic.twitter.com/z6k0hj58rV — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × "Srinagar airport has been cleared for night flights, security forces continue to remain vigil," he noted. Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary also said that the preventive detentions are currently under review and appropriate decisions will be made based on law and order assessments. "The government's focus is on the earliest return to normalcy while ensuring that terrorist forces are given no opportunity to wreak havoc as in the past," he said. He told reporters that at present, 12 of 22 districts are functioning normally in Jammu and Kashmir with some limited restrictions in 5 districts. "The measures put in place have ensured that there has not been a single loss of life," Subrahmanyam said. "Keeping in view the evolving situation and cooperation of people, we are now taking measures to ease the restrictions in a gradual calibrated manner after the reports that today's Friday prayers have gone quite peacefully. There would be easing of restrictions in the next few days in an orderly manner and restriction on movement would be removed area by area," said J&K chief secretary. "It is expected that in the next few days, as restrictions get eased life in Jammu and Kashmir will become completely normal. Roads are full of regular traffic and we expect to see an increase in it in coming few days," said Subrahmanyam. As the restrictions on movement would be removed area by area, the movement of public transport would be allowed in these areas. He further noted that telecom connectivity will gradually be restored in a phase-wise manner keeping in mind constant threat posed by terrorist's organizations in using mobile connectivity to organize terror actions. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said. This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it. On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to lift the restrictions in J&K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return. Centre, last week, abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

Focus is on earliest return to normalcy; schools, offices to open Monday: J&K chief secretary

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks on September 4, on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said Friday.

"On September 4, bilateral talks with Indian prime minister Modi will be held on the sidelines of the forum, they will take up most of the day," Ushakov told reporters.

Ushakov said that the two leaders were expected to have a discussion and sign agreements. Modi will be awarded the Order of St. Andrew, Ushakov added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks on September 4, on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said Friday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks on September 4, on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said Friday. "On September 4, bilateral talks with Indian prime minister Modi will be held on the sidelines of the forum, they will take up most of the day," Ushakov told reporters. Ushakov said that the two leaders were expected to have a discussion and sign agreements. Modi will be awarded the Order of St. Andrew, Ushakov added.

PM Modi, Vladimir Putin to hold talks on September 4: Kremlin aide

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally'&nbsp;in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said,&nbsp;"Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state."

"This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75'&nbsp;which needs support from the state's people," he said.

Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days."

"It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said.

"Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history."

Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe.

"Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918."

"In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said.

The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started."

Shah also paid tributes to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-family-members-pay-tribute-to-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-first-death-anniversary-243239">former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a> on his first death anniversary.

"Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year. He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally' in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said, "Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state." "This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75' which needs support from the state's people," he said. Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days." "It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said. "Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history." Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe. "Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918." "In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said. The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started." Shah also paid tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary. "Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

At Jind rally, Amit Shah talks of 'Mission 75', slams Congress for not revoking Article 370

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday.&nbsp;

The feat was achieved on the occasion of India's 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. Air&nbsp;India's spokesperson tweeted out glimpses from the historic moment, he was aboard the airplane.&nbsp;

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Historic moment captured by phone. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AI73?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AI73</a> (Del-SFO) 1st Indian Comercial flight flown over Polar. <a href="https://t.co/fT2Do6nbI5">pic.twitter.com/fT2Do6nbI5</a>
— Dhananjay kumar (@dhananjaypro) <a href="https://twitter.com/dhananjaypro/status/1162059057634525186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian commercial flight flown over Polar," Dhananjay Kumar tweeted out.&nbsp;

"Another feather by Air India flying over magnetic sensitive North Pole #Proud Air Indian," his tweet read.&nbsp;

Kumar also posted a nearly one-minute-long video which captured the scintillating view of the Polar region from the Air India flight.&nbsp;

The video exhibited a vast expanse of ice running to the horizon while AI73 flew over the Polar region.&nbsp;

Over 200 passengers were aboard the Air India flight which flew over Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Russia before flying over North Pole and crossing over to the other side of the planet.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday.

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday. The feat was achieved on the occasion of India's 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. Air India's spokesperson tweeted out glimpses from the historic moment, he was aboard the airplane. Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian Comercial flight flown over Polar. pic.twitter.com/fT2Do6nbI5 — Dhananjay kumar (@dhananjaypro) August 15, 2019 × "Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian commercial flight flown over Polar," Dhananjay Kumar tweeted out. "Another feather by Air India flying over magnetic sensitive North Pole #Proud Air Indian," his tweet read. Kumar also posted a nearly one-minute-long video which captured the scintillating view of the Polar region from the Air India flight. The video exhibited a vast expanse of ice running to the horizon while AI73 flew over the Polar region. Over 200 passengers were aboard the Air India flight which flew over Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Russia before flying over North Pole and crossing over to the other side of the planet.

Watch: Glimpses of first Indian commercial flight over North Pole

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The development comes just a week after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express</a> - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, had announced last week that Thar Express services will be stopped.

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Indian Railways: Thar Express train(Jodhpur to Karachi) stands cancelled till further orders <a href="https://t.co/ZFeKwVaFqF">pic.twitter.com/ZFeKwVaFqF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162320829146947584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/despite-pakistans-suspension-thar-express-operating-on-schedule-railway-242023">Thar Express</a> is a weekly passenger train that connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with&nbsp;Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan&nbsp;and was started in 2006.

Every Saturday, the Thar Link Express departs from Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station on the outskirts of Jodhpur and makes a 320km journey to Munabao in Barmer on the international border. The train then crosses over to Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has rejected India's request to review the decision of&nbsp;closing down the operations of the Samjhauta Express, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post.

"Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters on Saturday.

In sharp retaliation to India's move of scrapping Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Imran Khan-led Pakistan government suspended Samjhauta Express train service, partially closed its airspace and called off trade with India.&nbsp;

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported. The development comes just a week after Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan.

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported. The development comes just a week after Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan. Pakistan Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, had announced last week that Thar Express services will be stopped. Indian Railways: Thar Express train(Jodhpur to Karachi) stands cancelled till further orders pic.twitter.com/ZFeKwVaFqF — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × Thar Express is a weekly passenger train that connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan and was started in 2006. Every Saturday, the Thar Link Express departs from Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station on the outskirts of Jodhpur and makes a 320km journey to Munabao in Barmer on the international border. The train then crosses over to Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta Express, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post. "Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters on Saturday. In sharp retaliation to India's move of scrapping Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Imran Khan-led Pakistan government suspended Samjhauta Express train service, partially closed its airspace and called off trade with India.

Thar Express train service with Pakistan cancelled until further notice: Indian Railways

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them.

After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units.

President's of Jharkhand, Karnataka and Goa are going to be announced soon by the party, they said.

There is a lot of infighting in Haryana and some solutions have been worked out as a truce between warring factions, the sources said.

The Congress top brass has also expressed serious concerns over desertions of MLAs in Karnataka and Goa.Gearing up for the coming Assembly polls in Jharkhand and Haryana, the party is prepping to strengthen its state units.

Having taken over as interim Congress chief, Gandhi has started holding meetings to review party's preparations in states expected to go to the polls later this year and held a meeting on Jharkhand on Wednesday.

Congress sources said Gandhi is expected to meet party in-charges of Haryana and Maharashtra in the next few days.

Gandhi was recently chosen as interim chief of Congress after a meeting of the party's Working Committee over two months after Rahul Gandhi offered to resign as party chief following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them. After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them. After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units. President's of Jharkhand, Karnataka and Goa are going to be announced soon by the party, they said. There is a lot of infighting in Haryana and some solutions have been worked out as a truce between warring factions, the sources said. The Congress top brass has also expressed serious concerns over desertions of MLAs in Karnataka and Goa.Gearing up for the coming Assembly polls in Jharkhand and Haryana, the party is prepping to strengthen its state units. Having taken over as interim Congress chief, Gandhi has started holding meetings to review party's preparations in states expected to go to the polls later this year and held a meeting on Jharkhand on Wednesday. Congress sources said Gandhi is expected to meet party in-charges of Haryana and Maharashtra in the next few days. Gandhi was recently chosen as interim chief of Congress after a meeting of the party's Working Committee over two months after Rahul Gandhi offered to resign as party chief following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

Sonia mulling overhaul of state units, to name some chiefs

Indian shares ended a tick higher on Friday, powered by gains in banking stocks, but finished lower for the week with trading dominated by headlines about the Sino-U.S. trade conflict and fears of an imminent global recession.

The Nifty ended 0.17 per cent&nbsp;higher at 11,047.80, while the Sensex closed 0.10 per cent firmer at 37,350.33.

The Nifty and the Sensex shed 0.55 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively during the three-day week, which had two market holidays.

The Nifty bank index ended 0.71 per cent higher, led by a roughly 4 per cent gain each in Punjab National Bank and Yes Bank Ltd.

Meanwhile, shares in oil-to-telecom conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd climbed 10 per cent during the week, their best weekly performance since July 2018. Reliance unveiled the sale of a portion of its oil-to-chemicals business to Saudi Aramco and introduced new high-speed internet services.

Indian shares ended a tick higher on Friday, powered by gains in banking stocks, but finished lower for the week with trading dominated by headlines about the Sino-U.

Indian shares ended a tick higher on Friday, powered by gains in banking stocks, but finished lower for the week with trading dominated by headlines about the Sino-U.S. trade conflict and fears of an imminent global recession. The Nifty ended 0.17 per cent higher at 11,047.80, while the Sensex closed 0.10 per cent firmer at 37,350.33. The Nifty and the Sensex shed 0.55 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively during the three-day week, which had two market holidays. The Nifty bank index ended 0.71 per cent higher, led by a roughly 4 per cent gain each in Punjab National Bank and Yes Bank Ltd. Meanwhile, shares in oil-to-telecom conglomerate Reliance Industries Ltd climbed 10 per cent during the week, their best weekly performance since July 2018. Reliance unveiled the sale of a portion of its oil-to-chemicals business to Saudi Aramco and introduced new high-speed internet services.

Sensex, Nifty eke out gains, end week lower

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case.

"Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has confirmed the sentence awarded to the officer. The decision of the Chief of Army Staff was intimated to the Major General by the 2 Corps Commander Lt Gen MJS Kahlon today in Ambala," Army officials told ANI.

As per the orders issued in this regard, the confirmation of the sentence was signed by the Army Chief in July itself.

An Army General Court Martial (GCM) on December 23 last year had recommended dismissal of the Major General from service in a more than two-year-old sexual harassment.

Reacting on the decision of the Army Chief, the Major General's lawyer Anand Kumar said, "The confirmation of the sentence and its promulgation is illegal as the Major General has not been supplied a copy of court-martial proceedings till date to enable him to file a pre-confirmation petition despite the orders passed by AFT Delhi."

"His Review Application is also pending and despite that, the sentence has been confirmed by General Rawat who was also made aware of the order of AFT through a legal notice sent by us. We will challenge this confirmation order," he added.

The court-martial had recommended the dismissal of the officer from service after he was charged under section 354A of the IPC and Army Act 45 which is related to unbecoming conduct of officers in the force. As per the Army rules, the recommendation of the GCM is sent to higher authorities for confirmation.

The higher authority has the powers to even change the sentence.

The Major General was posted in the Northeast when the alleged incident took place in late 2016 and was attached to Chandimandir under Army's Western Command for the disciplinary proceedings.

The officer had denied the charges against him levelled by the Captain-rank lady officer. In a plea filed before the Armed Forces Tribunal, the officer had claimed that he was a victim of factionalism within the Army which had allegedly arisen due to the appointment of Army Chief in that year.&nbsp;

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case. "Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has confirmed the sentence awarded to the officer. The decision of the Chief of Army Staff was intimated to the Major General by the 2 Corps Commander Lt Gen MJS Kahlon today in Ambala," Army officials told ANI. As per the orders issued in this regard, the confirmation of the sentence was signed by the Army Chief in July itself. An Army General Court Martial (GCM) on December 23 last year had recommended dismissal of the Major General from service in a more than two-year-old sexual harassment. Reacting on the decision of the Army Chief, the Major General's lawyer Anand Kumar said, "The confirmation of the sentence and its promulgation is illegal as the Major General has not been supplied a copy of court-martial proceedings till date to enable him to file a pre-confirmation petition despite the orders passed by AFT Delhi." "His Review Application is also pending and despite that, the sentence has been confirmed by General Rawat who was also made aware of the order of AFT through a legal notice sent by us. We will challenge this confirmation order," he added. The court-martial had recommended the dismissal of the officer from service after he was charged under section 354A of the IPC and Army Act 45 which is related to unbecoming conduct of officers in the force. As per the Army rules, the recommendation of the GCM is sent to higher authorities for confirmation. The higher authority has the powers to even change the sentence. The Major General was posted in the Northeast when the alleged incident took place in late 2016 and was attached to Chandimandir under Army's Western Command for the disciplinary proceedings. The officer had denied the charges against him levelled by the Captain-rank lady officer. In a plea filed before the Armed Forces Tribunal, the officer had claimed that he was a victim of factionalism within the Army which had allegedly arisen due to the appointment of Army Chief in that year.

Army Chief confirms dismissal of Major General over sexual harassment case

Indian Army on Thursday said three Pakistani soldiers were killed in punitive proactive response after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-summons-indian-envoy-over-alleged-ceasefire-violation-243097">ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army</a>.

Ceasefire violations are still taking place in Uri and Rajouri sectors, Army sources said.

Sources in the Indian Army also refuted claims made by Pakistani Army that five Indian soldiers were killed in the ceasefire violations along the Line of Control.

Earlier in the day, Pakistani Army while admitting that three of its soldiers were killed in the ceasefire violations had claimed that five Indian soldiers were also killed.

Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir earlier.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia over alleged ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC).

He was summoned by Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan's Director General for South Asia and SAARC, over the alleged incidents.

The&nbsp;development came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the former's action to reorganize Jammu and Kashmir and remove provisions in Article 370, which gave special status to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi has repeatedly urged Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement. However, Pakistan has regularly violated a ceasefire along the LoC.&nbsp;

Indian Army on Thursday said three Pakistani soldiers were killed in punitive proactive response after ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army. Ceasefire violations are still taking place in Uri and Rajouri sectors, Army sources said.

Indian Army on Thursday said three Pakistani soldiers were killed in punitive proactive response after ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army. Ceasefire violations are still taking place in Uri and Rajouri sectors, Army sources said. Sources in the Indian Army also refuted claims made by Pakistani Army that five Indian soldiers were killed in the ceasefire violations along the Line of Control. Earlier in the day, Pakistani Army while admitting that three of its soldiers were killed in the ceasefire violations had claimed that five Indian soldiers were also killed. Pakistan had violated the ceasefire in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir earlier. Meanwhile, Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia over alleged ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). He was summoned by Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan's Director General for South Asia and SAARC, over the alleged incidents. The development came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the former's action to reorganize Jammu and Kashmir and remove provisions in Article 370, which gave special status to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi has repeatedly urged Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement. However, Pakistan has regularly violated a ceasefire along the LoC.

3 Pakistan soldiers killed in ceasefire violations, says Army, refutes claims of 5 Indian casualties

The government has asked the defence forces to submit their views on the creation of the new post of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-speech-pm-modi-announces-chief-of-defence-staff-post-243107">Chief of Defence Staff</a> (CDS) for the three defence forces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the creation of the new post in his Independence Day address.

A high-level committee has been formed by the government for streamlining the structure of the new post to be created with defence ministry bureaucrats and tri-services officers.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat is the front-runner to become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as he will be the seniormost officer in the armed forces after October 1 when the IAF Chief retires.

"The three services have been asked to give their views on the issue of Chief of Defence Staff and they are expected to give their replies by next couple of weeks," government sources said.

The entire work on the creation of the new office of Chief of Defence Staff who would be the seniormost defence forces officer of five-star-rank has been driven by the National Security Council in consultation and coordination with the Defence Ministry bureaucracy.

The move will pave the way for an integrated military, with the CDS being the prime minister's point person on national defence issues.

"Our forces are India's pride. To further sharpen coordination between the forces, I want to announce a major decision. India will have a Chief of Defence Staff. This is going to make the forces even more effective," Modi said in his Independence Day speech on Thursday.

The government has already taken steps like the creation of tri-services agencies such as the Special Operations Division, Cyber and Space agencies for strengthening and working for the CDS.

The government has asked the defence forces to submit their views on the creation of the new post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) for the three defence forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the creation of the new post in his Independence Day address.

The government has asked the defence forces to submit their views on the creation of the new post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) for the three defence forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the creation of the new post in his Independence Day address. A high-level committee has been formed by the government for streamlining the structure of the new post to be created with defence ministry bureaucrats and tri-services officers. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat is the front-runner to become India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as he will be the seniormost officer in the armed forces after October 1 when the IAF Chief retires. "The three services have been asked to give their views on the issue of Chief of Defence Staff and they are expected to give their replies by next couple of weeks," government sources said. The entire work on the creation of the new office of Chief of Defence Staff who would be the seniormost defence forces officer of five-star-rank has been driven by the National Security Council in consultation and coordination with the Defence Ministry bureaucracy. The move will pave the way for an integrated military, with the CDS being the prime minister's point person on national defence issues. "Our forces are India's pride. To further sharpen coordination between the forces, I want to announce a major decision. India will have a Chief of Defence Staff. This is going to make the forces even more effective," Modi said in his Independence Day speech on Thursday. The government has already taken steps like the creation of tri-services agencies such as the Special Operations Division, Cyber and Space agencies for strengthening and working for the CDS.

Government seeks defence forces' views on Chief of Defence Staff post

The death toll due to floods on Thursday afternoon mounted to 104, according to data of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).

KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 15 till 3 pm in which it stated that 36 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents.

Malappuram remained the most affected district where 43 people have lost their lives so far.

Among 14 affected-districts, 17 deaths were reported from Kozhikode, 12 from Wayanad, and 9 from Kannur.

According to data, a total of 1,75,373 people are staying at 1,057 rescue and relief camps across the state.

On August 14, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of people who lost their lives due to floods in the state. IMD has predicted "heavy rainfall" at isolated parts over Kerala this week. The Meteorological Department has also advised fishermen not to venture into those areas.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed solidarity with the flood-affected states and assured all possible support required in tackling the situation.

"Today, when we are marking Independence Day, many of our citizens are suffering due to floods in various parts of the country. We stand in solidarity with those who are affected by the floods and I assure them all possible support that is needed will be provided," he said, addressing the nation on the 73rd Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

Hundreds of lives have been lost in flood-hit Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar and Assam where thousands of hectares of crops have been washed away.

Roads and rail lines were also damaged. In his address, the Prime Minister stressed on the need for water conservation and said that is why the Ministry of Jal Shakti has been formed.

Terming as unfortunate that a large number of people do not have access to suitable water even 70 years after Independence, he said, "Work on the Jal Jeevan Mission will progress with great vigour in the years to come."

The Ministry of Jal Shakti was formed in May by merging of two ministries -- Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, after the return of Modi to power for a second consecutive term.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The death toll due to floods on Thursday afternoon mounted to 104, according to data of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 15 till 3 pm in which it stated that 36 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents.

The death toll due to floods on Thursday afternoon mounted to 104, according to data of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 15 till 3 pm in which it stated that 36 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents. Malappuram remained the most affected district where 43 people have lost their lives so far. Among 14 affected-districts, 17 deaths were reported from Kozhikode, 12 from Wayanad, and 9 from Kannur. According to data, a total of 1,75,373 people are staying at 1,057 rescue and relief camps across the state. On August 14, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of people who lost their lives due to floods in the state. IMD has predicted "heavy rainfall" at isolated parts over Kerala this week. The Meteorological Department has also advised fishermen not to venture into those areas. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed solidarity with the flood-affected states and assured all possible support required in tackling the situation. "Today, when we are marking Independence Day, many of our citizens are suffering due to floods in various parts of the country. We stand in solidarity with those who are affected by the floods and I assure them all possible support that is needed will be provided," he said, addressing the nation on the 73rd Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort. Hundreds of lives have been lost in flood-hit Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar and Assam where thousands of hectares of crops have been washed away. Roads and rail lines were also damaged. In his address, the Prime Minister stressed on the need for water conservation and said that is why the Ministry of Jal Shakti has been formed. Terming as unfortunate that a large number of people do not have access to suitable water even 70 years after Independence, he said, "Work on the Jal Jeevan Mission will progress with great vigour in the years to come." The Ministry of Jal Shakti was formed in May by merging of two ministries -- Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, after the return of Modi to power for a second consecutive term.

Kerala floods: Death toll mounts to 104, 36 missing

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