Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Thursday said that for the last few days Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators.

"For the past few days, there have been attempts by Pakistan to push in infiltrators. Such infiltration attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations," the Army Commander said while speaking to ANI.

"However, the Indian Army is totally alert. We have been able to foil all such attempts at the Line of Control (LoC) itself," he said.

The Army Commander also said that Pakistan is also attempting to push in terrorists in the hinterland.

"Our counter-terrorism grid in the hinterland and the multi-tiered counter-infiltration grid along the LoC are effective. We have been able to ensure peace and security both along the LoC as also in the hinterland," he said.

"Whenever there are any attempts by Pakistan to push in infiltrators or carry out any actions along the LoC, or ceasefire violations, they get a befitting reply from the Indian Army. But, overall the situation is under control," he said.

Lt Gen Singh said the situation in the hinterland is also under control.

"The civil administration has been able to keep the situation under check. It is being monitored regularly. Regular decisions are taken so that we are able to ensure peace and security in the hinterland and also to see that the degree of difficulty to the common citizens is reduced significantly," said the Army Commander.

"Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Armed Police Forces have also been able to effectively put a check on any kind of wrong activities or attempts by Pakistan to vitiate internal security atmosphere in the hinterland," he added.

Lt Gen Singh said the Indian Army is also monitoring the situation very closely in the hinterland.

"We are fully prepared. Whenever the situation arises, we are prepared to take on any challenge. I would only like to mention that our prime concern while conducting any action in the hinterland is to ensure peace and security of our citizens," he said.

Earlier, the Army Commander celebrated the 73rd Independence Day with troops. He was accompanied by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon.

While interacting with troops, he lauded them for their professionalism and conveyed his best wishes to them on the occasion of Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan.

"I am also here to congratulate you on your good work. I am aware of how you are working in a challenging region and I am proud that all your units are performing well. I congratulate you all for that. I would like those who are not present here...they are conveyed my greetings," he said while interacting with troops.

The Army Commander during his interaction said that challenges which come our way are not easy to guess, "but it is necessary that we remain prepared to tackle challenges."

"You are aware of how the neighbouring country is trying to push infiltration to cause damage. That is why it is necessary that we understand the nefarious intentions and thwart these. You have been doing this well till now," he said.

"This is an identity of a great team that whatever task is assigned to you by the senior officers, you perform it with all the hard work and dedication. I pray to god for your well being," he said.&nbsp;

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Thursday said that for the last few days Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators. "For the past few days, there have been attempts by Pakistan to push in infiltrators.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on Thursday said that for the last few days Pakistan has been attempting to push in infiltrators. "For the past few days, there have been attempts by Pakistan to push in infiltrators. Such infiltration attempts have been supported by ceasefire violations," the Army Commander said while speaking to ANI. "However, the Indian Army is totally alert. We have been able to foil all such attempts at the Line of Control (LoC) itself," he said. The Army Commander also said that Pakistan is also attempting to push in terrorists in the hinterland. "Our counter-terrorism grid in the hinterland and the multi-tiered counter-infiltration grid along the LoC are effective. We have been able to ensure peace and security both along the LoC as also in the hinterland," he said. "Whenever there are any attempts by Pakistan to push in infiltrators or carry out any actions along the LoC, or ceasefire violations, they get a befitting reply from the Indian Army. But, overall the situation is under control," he said. Lt Gen Singh said the situation in the hinterland is also under control. "The civil administration has been able to keep the situation under check. It is being monitored regularly. Regular decisions are taken so that we are able to ensure peace and security in the hinterland and also to see that the degree of difficulty to the common citizens is reduced significantly," said the Army Commander. "Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Armed Police Forces have also been able to effectively put a check on any kind of wrong activities or attempts by Pakistan to vitiate internal security atmosphere in the hinterland," he added. Lt Gen Singh said the Indian Army is also monitoring the situation very closely in the hinterland. "We are fully prepared. Whenever the situation arises, we are prepared to take on any challenge. I would only like to mention that our prime concern while conducting any action in the hinterland is to ensure peace and security of our citizens," he said. Earlier, the Army Commander celebrated the 73rd Independence Day with troops. He was accompanied by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon. While interacting with troops, he lauded them for their professionalism and conveyed his best wishes to them on the occasion of Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan. "I am also here to congratulate you on your good work. I am aware of how you are working in a challenging region and I am proud that all your units are performing well. I congratulate you all for that. I would like those who are not present here...they are conveyed my greetings," he said while interacting with troops. The Army Commander during his interaction said that challenges which come our way are not easy to guess, "but it is necessary that we remain prepared to tackle challenges." "You are aware of how the neighbouring country is trying to push infiltration to cause damage. That is why it is necessary that we understand the nefarious intentions and thwart these. You have been doing this well till now," he said. "This is an identity of a great team that whatever task is assigned to you by the senior officers, you perform it with all the hard work and dedication. I pray to god for your well being," he said.

Pakistan attempting to push in infiltrators: Northern Army Commander

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday hoisted the tri-colour here on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day.

Speaking at the event, Adityanath said that revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir is an unprecedented step in the direction of 'one India, great India'.

The chief minister said that he is thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for taking this step which the country felt was necessary soon after the independence.

Adityanath said that Independence Day is Resolution day for us. "We should get united with the resolution to provide benefits of government schemes to the person at the lowest rung of the ladder and to make the country's economy reach the top spot."

Speaking about the state's efforts to benefit sugarcane farmers, the chief minister said, "in the last two years, the Uttar Pradesh government has succeeded in paying more than Rs 72,000 crore to sugarcane farmers."

Adityanath further said, "Prime Minister Modi has set the target to make our economy reach 5 trillion dollar mark and in this respect, we should set a target for Uttar Pardesh to become 1 trillion dollar economy and start working for that."

He said, "Today is also the festival of Raksha Bandhan and we will soon come up with 'Uttar Pradesh Kanya Sumangala Yojana'&nbsp;which is a forward step in the direction of 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao'&nbsp;initiative."

"Tree plantation drive has yielded great results with more than 22 crores trees planted on August Kranti Diwas. This move was appreciated within the country and around the world," he added.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday hoisted the tri-colour here on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day. Speaking at the event, Adityanath said that revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir is an unprecedented step in the direction of 'one India, great India'.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday hoisted the tri-colour here on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day. Speaking at the event, Adityanath said that revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir is an unprecedented step in the direction of 'one India, great India'. The chief minister said that he is thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for taking this step which the country felt was necessary soon after the independence. Adityanath said that Independence Day is Resolution day for us. "We should get united with the resolution to provide benefits of government schemes to the person at the lowest rung of the ladder and to make the country's economy reach the top spot." Speaking about the state's efforts to benefit sugarcane farmers, the chief minister said, "in the last two years, the Uttar Pradesh government has succeeded in paying more than Rs 72,000 crore to sugarcane farmers." Adityanath further said, "Prime Minister Modi has set the target to make our economy reach 5 trillion dollar mark and in this respect, we should set a target for Uttar Pardesh to become 1 trillion dollar economy and start working for that." He said, "Today is also the festival of Raksha Bandhan and we will soon come up with 'Uttar Pradesh Kanya Sumangala Yojana' which is a forward step in the direction of 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao' initiative." "Tree plantation drive has yielded great results with more than 22 crores trees planted on August Kranti Diwas. This move was appreciated within the country and around the world," he added.

Revocation of Article 370 unprecedented step in formation of 'One India, Great India': Adityanath

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first Independence Day speech after assuming the office for the second term with a thumping majority was his second-longest address from the ramparts of Red Fort.

Only four-minutes short of his longest Independence Day speech delivered in 2016, today's 92-minute long address touched upon wide-varieties of the subject and showcased a five-year road-map of his government's ongoing term.

Today's speech on India's 73rd Independence Day also is also the second-longest speech delivered by any Indian Prime Minister on the occasion, since 1947.

From the 17th century Mughal monument, Prime Minister Modi had delivered a 96-minute long speech in 2016, making it the longest ever Independence Day address by an Indian Prime Minister.

Modi's last address from Red Fort in 2018 was 82 minutes long.

Prime Minister Modi has so far addressed the nation on Independence Day six times and barring 2017 (57 minutes), all his speeches have been over an hour long.

Independence Day speeches of his predecessor, Manmohan Singh, during his 10 years as Prime Minister were all less than 60 minutes.

It may be noted that India's first Prime Minister had made a 72-minute-long speech on the occasion of India`s first Independence Day.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first Independence Day speech after assuming the office for the second term with a thumping majority was his second-longest address from the ramparts of Red Fort.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first Independence Day speech after assuming the office for the second term with a thumping majority was his second-longest address from the ramparts of Red Fort. Only four-minutes short of his longest Independence Day speech delivered in 2016, today's 92-minute long address touched upon wide-varieties of the subject and showcased a five-year road-map of his government's ongoing term. Today's speech on India's 73rd Independence Day also is also the second-longest speech delivered by any Indian Prime Minister on the occasion, since 1947. From the 17th century Mughal monument, Prime Minister Modi had delivered a 96-minute long speech in 2016, making it the longest ever Independence Day address by an Indian Prime Minister. Modi's last address from Red Fort in 2018 was 82 minutes long. Prime Minister Modi has so far addressed the nation on Independence Day six times and barring 2017 (57 minutes), all his speeches have been over an hour long. Independence Day speeches of his predecessor, Manmohan Singh, during his 10 years as Prime Minister were all less than 60 minutes. It may be noted that India's first Prime Minister had made a 72-minute-long speech on the occasion of India`s first Independence Day.

PM Modi's maiden Independence Day address of second term also his second-longest

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/taliban-could-give-pakistan-a-short-term-win-in-afghanistan-243138">deal between the Taliban and the United States</a> for US&nbsp;forces to withdraw from their longest-ever war in Afghanistan could drive some diehard Taliban fighters into the arms of the Islamic State militant group, Afghan officials and militants say.

Such a deal is expected to see the United States agree to withdraw its forces in exchange for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/latest-round-of-peace-talks-with-us-finished-taliban-242381">Taliban</a> promise they will not let Afghanistan be used to plot international militant attacks.

As part of the pact, the Taliban are expected to make a commitment to power-sharing talks with the US-backed government and work out a ceasefire.

The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), after an old name for the region, first appeared in eastern Afghanistan in 2014, and has since made inroads into other areas, particularly the north.

The US&nbsp;military estimates their strength at 2,000 fighters. Some Afghan officials estimated the number is higher and could be about to get a boost.

"It's a big opportunity for Daesh to recruit fighters from the Taliban, and, no doubt, many Taliban fighters will happily join," said Sohrab Qaderi, a member of the provincial council in Nangarhar province on the border with Pakistan, referring to IS.

IS militants, who battle government forces and the Taliban, and have carried out some of the deadliest attacks in urban centres, will not be part of the deal between the United States and the Taliban.

For some Taliban, IS will offer an opportunity to continue jihad against those they see as infidels and their supporters. For others, who fear retribution if they try to reintegrate into society, it could be a refuge.

"They've killed and been killed, they have feuds," Qaderi said of the Taliban. "Many fighters won't feel safe returning to normal life."

A spokesman for President Ashraf Ghani said there was a major concern about the growing strength of IS and their attraction for some Taliban.

"Most Daesh are ex-Taliban, and there could be a possibility of some Taliban joining," said the spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi.

"The Afghan government and the US&nbsp;have shared goals combating terrorism. We need the support of our international partners."

The government has a reintegration programme for insurgents who surrender but critics say it can take too long for people to be vetted and the care they get is inadequate.

From white to black&nbsp;

But a Taliban commander and some members of the group dismissed the possibility of fighters breaking ranks to join IS.

"The Taliban leadership has enough control over their fighters to given them orders, and they obey them," Mawlavi Jamal, a Taliban commander in the western province of Farah, told Reuters by telephone.

But a Taliban fighter in eastern Kunar province said he had no choice but to join IS, and he thought others would too.

"During the fighting local people got killed, many people have enemies," said the fighter, who declined to be identified.

He said had killed one of his father's cousins who opposed the Taliban and could not return to his village.

"To survive, I have to go to Daesh," he said. "Our aim is to fight the infidels and corruption, no matter under what name."

One former Taliban member who joined IS in Kunar two years ago denounced the Taliban for negotiating with "infidels".

"They're selling the precious lives we've sacrificed ... I'm sure more true mujahideen will soon join us," said the fighter, who spoke by telephone and sought anonymity.

A former senior Taliban member who has defected to the government said fighters might be inadvertently driven into the arms of IS if the government did not rehabilitate them properly.

"If nothing else makes Taliban fighters join Daesh, it'll be government negligence," he told Reuters in an interview in a safe house provided by the government in Kabul, the capital.

He said he had former Taliban comrades who had wanted to leave the Taliban but been unable to strike a deal with the government, so had joined IS instead.

Rivalries, feuds and the anger among some fighters over what they see as their leaders' compromise with the Americans were also likely to drive defections to IS, he said.

"It's the easiest thing, just change the white flag to a black one," he said, referring to the white Taliban flag and the black IS banner.

A deal between the Taliban and the United States for US forces to withdraw from their longest-ever war in Afghanistan could drive some diehard Taliban fighters into the arms of the Islamic State militant group, Afghan officials and militants say.

A deal between the Taliban and the United States for US forces to withdraw from their longest-ever war in Afghanistan could drive some diehard Taliban fighters into the arms of the Islamic State militant group, Afghan officials and militants say. Such a deal is expected to see the United States agree to withdraw its forces in exchange for a Taliban promise they will not let Afghanistan be used to plot international militant attacks. As part of the pact, the Taliban are expected to make a commitment to power-sharing talks with the US-backed government and work out a ceasefire. The Afghan affiliate of Islamic State, known as Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), after an old name for the region, first appeared in eastern Afghanistan in 2014, and has since made inroads into other areas, particularly the north. The US military estimates their strength at 2,000 fighters. Some Afghan officials estimated the number is higher and could be about to get a boost. "It's a big opportunity for Daesh to recruit fighters from the Taliban, and, no doubt, many Taliban fighters will happily join," said Sohrab Qaderi, a member of the provincial council in Nangarhar province on the border with Pakistan, referring to IS. IS militants, who battle government forces and the Taliban, and have carried out some of the deadliest attacks in urban centres, will not be part of the deal between the United States and the Taliban. For some Taliban, IS will offer an opportunity to continue jihad against those they see as infidels and their supporters. For others, who fear retribution if they try to reintegrate into society, it could be a refuge. "They've killed and been killed, they have feuds," Qaderi said of the Taliban. "Many fighters won't feel safe returning to normal life." A spokesman for President Ashraf Ghani said there was a major concern about the growing strength of IS and their attraction for some Taliban. "Most Daesh are ex-Taliban, and there could be a possibility of some Taliban joining," said the spokesman, Sediq Sediqqi. "The Afghan government and the US have shared goals combating terrorism. We need the support of our international partners." The government has a reintegration programme for insurgents who surrender but critics say it can take too long for people to be vetted and the care they get is inadequate. From white to black But a Taliban commander and some members of the group dismissed the possibility of fighters breaking ranks to join IS. "The Taliban leadership has enough control over their fighters to given them orders, and they obey them," Mawlavi Jamal, a Taliban commander in the western province of Farah, told Reuters by telephone. But a Taliban fighter in eastern Kunar province said he had no choice but to join IS, and he thought others would too. "During the fighting local people got killed, many people have enemies," said the fighter, who declined to be identified. He said had killed one of his father's cousins who opposed the Taliban and could not return to his village. "To survive, I have to go to Daesh," he said. "Our aim is to fight the infidels and corruption, no matter under what name." One former Taliban member who joined IS in Kunar two years ago denounced the Taliban for negotiating with "infidels". "They're selling the precious lives we've sacrificed ... I'm sure more true mujahideen will soon join us," said the fighter, who spoke by telephone and sought anonymity. A former senior Taliban member who has defected to the government said fighters might be inadvertently driven into the arms of IS if the government did not rehabilitate them properly. "If nothing else makes Taliban fighters join Daesh, it'll be government negligence," he told Reuters in an interview in a safe house provided by the government in Kabul, the capital. He said he had former Taliban comrades who had wanted to leave the Taliban but been unable to strike a deal with the government, so had joined IS instead. Rivalries, feuds and the anger among some fighters over what they see as their leaders' compromise with the Americans were also likely to drive defections to IS, he said. "It's the easiest thing, just change the white flag to a black one," he said, referring to the white Taliban flag and the black IS banner.

Taliban, US pact in Afghanistan could boost Islamic State: Afghan officials

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-urge-china-to-adhere-to-sino-british-joint-declaration-on-hong-kong-us-state-department-243027">Hong Kong</a> "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

"Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!" Trump said on Twitter.

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..deferral to December. It actually helps China more than us, but will be reciprocated. Millions of jobs are being lost in China to other non-Tariffed countries. Thousands of companies are leaving. Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1161767691646115840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi (Jinping) wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?" Trump said.

A US&nbsp;State Department spokeswoman said earlier on Wednesday that the United States was "deeply concerned" about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deeply-concerned-by-reports-of-china-paramilitary-movement-near-hong-kong-243100">Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border</a>.

The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US&nbsp;lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention.

Another US&nbsp;official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border.

Watch: Violent clashes continue in Hong Kong

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The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified.

"They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added,&nbsp;"There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy."

China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises."

It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents."

Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong.

On Tuesday, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony.

Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on Hong Kong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat Hong Kong "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat Hong Kong "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. "Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!" Trump said on Twitter. ..deferral to December. It actually helps China more than us, but will be reciprocated. Millions of jobs are being lost in China to other non-Tariffed countries. Thousands of companies are leaving. Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 14, 2019 × "I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi (Jinping) wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?" Trump said. A US State Department spokeswoman said earlier on Wednesday that the United States was "deeply concerned" about Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border. The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention. Another US official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border. Watch: Violent clashes continue in Hong Kong × The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified. "They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added, "There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy." China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises." It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents." Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony. Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on Hong Kong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with.

Trump says China should treat Hong Kong 'humanely' before trade deal can be agreed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-awarded-bharat-ratna-241554">Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award</a>, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed.

"Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CitiznMukherjee</a>, 
 
It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. 
 
Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. <a href="https://t.co/R6YNVDtjPF">pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1159661789493071872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him.

"My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted.

He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is."

Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind.

However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event.

It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known.

Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday. Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed. "Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted. Dear @CitiznMukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2019 × Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him. "My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted. He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is." Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind. However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event. It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known. Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

It was an honour to witness you receive Bharat Ratna: PM Modi to Pranab Mukherjee

Equity indices were in the positive zone during early hours on Friday, a day after reports said that the government is likely to roll back the recently-imposed higher tax on foreign portfolio investors.

There were also reports that the government is working on a package to streamline non-banking finance companies which have been facing a severe liquidity squeeze.

At 10:15 am, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was up 258 points at 37,585 while the Nifty 50 edged up 77 points to 11,109. At the National Stock Exchange, all sectoral indices were in the green with Nifty financial services and realty up by 1.2 per cent each.

Among stocks, Indiabulls Housing Finance gained by 8.3 per cent to trade at Rs 481.35 per share. Power Grid Corporation was up by 2.5 per cent, UltraTech Cement by 2.1 per cent, Grasim by 2 per cent and Bharti Infratel by 1.5 per cent.

However, Tata Motors dipped by 1.7 per cent to Rs 121.90 per share while Mahindra &amp; Mahindra lost by 1.2 per cent.

Yes Bank, Hindalco and Coal India were among other prominent losers.

Meanwhile, Asian indices saw a positive start led by the Japanese Nikkei and South Korean Kospi but fresh concerns about US-China trade ties were likely to limit gains.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.2 per cent. Japan's Nikkei average advanced 0.6 per cent while South Korean stocks gained 1 per cent.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Equity indices were in the positive zone during early hours on Friday, a day after reports said that the government is likely to roll back the recently-imposed higher tax on foreign portfolio investors.

Equity indices were in the positive zone during early hours on Friday, a day after reports said that the government is likely to roll back the recently-imposed higher tax on foreign portfolio investors. There were also reports that the government is working on a package to streamline non-banking finance companies which have been facing a severe liquidity squeeze. At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up 258 points at 37,585 while the Nifty 50 edged up 77 points to 11,109. At the National Stock Exchange, all sectoral indices were in the green with Nifty financial services and realty up by 1.2 per cent each. Among stocks, Indiabulls Housing Finance gained by 8.3 per cent to trade at Rs 481.35 per share. Power Grid Corporation was up by 2.5 per cent, UltraTech Cement by 2.1 per cent, Grasim by 2 per cent and Bharti Infratel by 1.5 per cent. However, Tata Motors dipped by 1.7 per cent to Rs 121.90 per share while Mahindra & Mahindra lost by 1.2 per cent. Yes Bank, Hindalco and Coal India were among other prominent losers. Meanwhile, Asian indices saw a positive start led by the Japanese Nikkei and South Korean Kospi but fresh concerns about US-China trade ties were likely to limit gains. MSCI's broadest index of Asia Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.2 per cent. Japan's Nikkei average advanced 0.6 per cent while South Korean stocks gained 1 per cent.

Equity indices open in green; Sensex, Nifty edge up

Hailing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-association-calls-for-aggressive-public-campaign-on-national-medical-commission-bill-241445">National Medical Commission</a> (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

The Health Minister told reporters here that there will now be a health professional who can counsel the population, provide early warnings, treat elementary ailments, and provide an early referral to a higher facility.

"A provision has been made in the NMC Act to register some Community Health Providers (CHPs) who shall be modern medicine professionals; they shall not be dealing with any alternative system of medicine. Also, they will have limited powers for providing primary and preventive healthcare at the mid-level," he said.

"The eminent doctors in NMC shall decide their qualifications through regulations which shall be finalised after extensive public consultation and debate," he added.

Dispelling rumours, fears and apprehensions about this provision giving a fillip to "quackery" in the country, he said that a false impression is being created that the provision for CHPs has been made to legalise quacks.

"Nothing can be farther from the truth. On the contrary, the punishment for quackery has been enhanced to up to one-year imprisonment and up to Rs 5 lakhs fine. The so-called quacks in the country do not possess any qualifications and would not be able to meet the conditions that will be set by NMC for becoming a CHP," he said.

"The National Medical Commission Act 2019 passed by both Houses of Parliament is historic and path-breaking. It is a huge and visionary reform in the medical education sector by the NDA Government under the leadership of our visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, and will prove to be a milestone in the years to come," Vardhan said.

The Minister said the NMC Act is progressive legislation which will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, simplify procedures, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

Speaking on the members in commission, Harsh Vardhan said the NMC will be representative, inclusive and respect the federal structure of Indian polity.

"There will be 10 Vice-Chancellors of State Health Universities and 9 elected members of State Medical Councils in the NMC. Thus 19 out of 33 members, which is more than half of the total strength, would be from the States and only a minority of members will be appointed by the central government thereby ensuring that the NMC is representative, inclusive and respecting the federal structure of Indian polity," he said.

"To ensure probity and integrity of the highest order, the members will have to declare their assets at the time of being appointed and again while demitting office. The members will also have to declare their professional and commercial engagement or involvement which will be published on the website of the Commission. It has been further provided that Chairperson/member on ceasing to hold office will not accept for a period of two years any employment in any capacity in a private medical institution whose matter has been dealt with them either directly or indirectly," he said.

The Health Minister said that the NMC will be an overarching body, which will frame policies and co-ordinate the activities of four Autonomous Boards.

"These Boards will look after the work of UG and PG education, Medical Assessment and Rating and Ethics and Medical Registration. The purpose of having these four independent Boards is to ensure separation of functions between them", he said.

Elaborating on its salient features, Vardhan stated that the NMC is a student-friendly initiative.

"Even in the current system, every student has to appear for a final year examination. Under the NMC Act, this final year examination has been converted into a nationwide exit test called NEXT. This single examination will grant -- a license to practice medicine, an MBBS degree, and entrance to postgraduate courses," he said.

"Students will be able to concentrate on an internship instead of spending all their time preparing for entry into PG courses and thus the burden on students will be greatly reduced. The same examination will also serve as a licentiate exam for foreign graduates," he added.

The Health Minister further said that there is a provision for common counselling for entrance to PG courses also.

"Students will be able to get admission to seats in all medical colleges and to Institutes of National Importance like AIIMS, PGI Chandigarh and JIPMER through a single counselling process. The Act does not impose any restriction on the number of attempts at NEXT examination," he said.

Harsh Vardhan said that the NMC provides for the regulation of fees and all other charges in 50 per cent seats in private colleges as well as deemed to be Universities.

"Nearly 50 per cent of the total MBBS seats in the country are in government colleges, which have nominal fees. Of the remaining seats, 50 per cent would be regulated by NMC. This means that almost 75 per cent of total seats in the country would be available at reasonable fees. It must be stressed again at this point that not only fees but fees and all other charges are being regulated," he said.

Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had passed the NMC Bill which seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India. Since the Bill was passed in the Parliament, the Indian Medical Association has been raising apprehensions regarding its certain provisions.

The Bill provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hailing the National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

Hailing the National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare. The Health Minister told reporters here that there will now be a health professional who can counsel the population, provide early warnings, treat elementary ailments, and provide an early referral to a higher facility. "A provision has been made in the NMC Act to register some Community Health Providers (CHPs) who shall be modern medicine professionals; they shall not be dealing with any alternative system of medicine. Also, they will have limited powers for providing primary and preventive healthcare at the mid-level," he said. "The eminent doctors in NMC shall decide their qualifications through regulations which shall be finalised after extensive public consultation and debate," he added. Dispelling rumours, fears and apprehensions about this provision giving a fillip to "quackery" in the country, he said that a false impression is being created that the provision for CHPs has been made to legalise quacks. "Nothing can be farther from the truth. On the contrary, the punishment for quackery has been enhanced to up to one-year imprisonment and up to Rs 5 lakhs fine. The so-called quacks in the country do not possess any qualifications and would not be able to meet the conditions that will be set by NMC for becoming a CHP," he said. "The National Medical Commission Act 2019 passed by both Houses of Parliament is historic and path-breaking. It is a huge and visionary reform in the medical education sector by the NDA Government under the leadership of our visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, and will prove to be a milestone in the years to come," Vardhan said. The Minister said the NMC Act is progressive legislation which will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, simplify procedures, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and provide wider access to people for quality healthcare. Speaking on the members in commission, Harsh Vardhan said the NMC will be representative, inclusive and respect the federal structure of Indian polity. "There will be 10 Vice-Chancellors of State Health Universities and 9 elected members of State Medical Councils in the NMC. Thus 19 out of 33 members, which is more than half of the total strength, would be from the States and only a minority of members will be appointed by the central government thereby ensuring that the NMC is representative, inclusive and respecting the federal structure of Indian polity," he said. "To ensure probity and integrity of the highest order, the members will have to declare their assets at the time of being appointed and again while demitting office. The members will also have to declare their professional and commercial engagement or involvement which will be published on the website of the Commission. It has been further provided that Chairperson/member on ceasing to hold office will not accept for a period of two years any employment in any capacity in a private medical institution whose matter has been dealt with them either directly or indirectly," he said. The Health Minister said that the NMC will be an overarching body, which will frame policies and co-ordinate the activities of four Autonomous Boards. "These Boards will look after the work of UG and PG education, Medical Assessment and Rating and Ethics and Medical Registration. The purpose of having these four independent Boards is to ensure separation of functions between them", he said. Elaborating on its salient features, Vardhan stated that the NMC is a student-friendly initiative. "Even in the current system, every student has to appear for a final year examination. Under the NMC Act, this final year examination has been converted into a nationwide exit test called NEXT. This single examination will grant -- a license to practice medicine, an MBBS degree, and entrance to postgraduate courses," he said. "Students will be able to concentrate on an internship instead of spending all their time preparing for entry into PG courses and thus the burden on students will be greatly reduced. The same examination will also serve as a licentiate exam for foreign graduates," he added. The Health Minister further said that there is a provision for common counselling for entrance to PG courses also. "Students will be able to get admission to seats in all medical colleges and to Institutes of National Importance like AIIMS, PGI Chandigarh and JIPMER through a single counselling process. The Act does not impose any restriction on the number of attempts at NEXT examination," he said. Harsh Vardhan said that the NMC provides for the regulation of fees and all other charges in 50 per cent seats in private colleges as well as deemed to be Universities. "Nearly 50 per cent of the total MBBS seats in the country are in government colleges, which have nominal fees. Of the remaining seats, 50 per cent would be regulated by NMC. This means that almost 75 per cent of total seats in the country would be available at reasonable fees. It must be stressed again at this point that not only fees but fees and all other charges are being regulated," he said. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had passed the NMC Bill which seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India. Since the Bill was passed in the Parliament, the Indian Medical Association has been raising apprehensions regarding its certain provisions. The Bill provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.

NMC Bill is huge and visionary reform in medical education sector: Harsh Vardhan

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-railways-minister-piyush-goyal-says-no-privatisation-of-railways-targets-congress-235451">Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal</a> announced.

"India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river. An example of impeccable engineering, this train is proof of the progress made by Indian Railways. This train will bring ease to the people of Kolkata and pride to the people of India." tweeted Piyush Goyal in Hindi.

The 16-kilometre long Kolkata Metro project will connect Salt Sector 5 with Howrah Maidan.

The phase I of the project connecting Salt Lake Sector-5 to Salt Lake Stadium will soon be operational.

The tunnel is provided with four-layers of protection to shield the tunnel from the water of Hubli river.&nbsp;

Goyal, last month, had said that there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units.

Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government.&nbsp;

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal announced. "India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river.

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal announced. "India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river. An example of impeccable engineering, this train is proof of the progress made by Indian Railways. This train will bring ease to the people of Kolkata and pride to the people of India." tweeted Piyush Goyal in Hindi. The 16-kilometre long Kolkata Metro project will connect Salt Sector 5 with Howrah Maidan. The phase I of the project connecting Salt Lake Sector-5 to Salt Lake Stadium will soon be operational. The tunnel is provided with four-layers of protection to shield the tunnel from the water of Hubli river. Goyal, last month, had said that there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units. Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government.

India's first underwater train to be launched in Kolkata soon

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates.

The state is now grappling with a severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-operations-at-kochi-airport-suspended-till-sunday-afternoon-in-wake-of-heavy-rainfall-241608">flood situation following incessant rains</a>.

A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said.

28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up.

A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur.

As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.&nbsp;

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains.

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains. A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said. 28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up. A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur. As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara. On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.

Maharashtra flood: Over 2 lakh people rescued, 43 teams of multiple agencies deployed

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

"Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159669528399364096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read.

Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur.

"In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.&nbsp;

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas. "Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8. Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state. — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × "The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read. Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur. "In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.

Indian Navy mobilises rescue teams for flood relief and evacuation in Maharastra, Karnataka

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport.&nbsp;

According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise.&nbsp;

Kerala Government has declared a holiday today for all schools across the state. As per reports, more than 315 camps have been set up for assistance and over 20,000 people have been evacuated.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KDSMA) has stated that 22,165 people have been evacuated to safety and are lodged in 315 camps across the state.&nbsp;

Kerala Disaster Management Authority on Wednesday&nbsp;issued a&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-red-alert-warning-issued-for-three-districts-on-predictions-of-heavy-rainfall-241456">Red Alert' warning</a> for Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts for 24 hours.

Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts were issued 'Orange Alerts'&nbsp;for yesterday.&nbsp;

Schools and colleges were shut in Malappuram and Wayanad districts.&nbsp;

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Kerala: Operations suspended at the Cochin International Airport till 11th August (Sunday), 3 pm. <a href="https://t.co/eTueBv1500">pic.twitter.com/eTueBv1500</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159642832082264065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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An 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;was issued for Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kasargod districts for Friday.

Idukki and Kozhikode have been put on 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;for Saturday as well.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha was held on Thursday to review the prevailing flood situation in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Gujarat.

Last year's disastrous floods in Kerala claimed over 350 lives across the state.

The shutters of nearly 33 dangerously full dams and reservoirs were opened for the first time in the history of Kerala in nearly a century.&nbsp;

State authorities estimated a cumulative loss worth over Rs 21,000 crore in the catastrophe that was announced as 'calamity of severe nature' by the central government.&nbsp;

A 'Red Alert' spells out a warning for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, whereas an 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;denotes that an area is likely to get heavy to very heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport. According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise.

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport. According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise. Kerala Government has declared a holiday today for all schools across the state. As per reports, more than 315 camps have been set up for assistance and over 20,000 people have been evacuated. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KDSMA) has stated that 22,165 people have been evacuated to safety and are lodged in 315 camps across the state. Kerala Disaster Management Authority on Wednesday issued a 'Red Alert' warning for Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts for 24 hours. Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts were issued 'Orange Alerts' for yesterday. Schools and colleges were shut in Malappuram and Wayanad districts. Kerala: Operations suspended at the Cochin International Airport till 11th August (Sunday), 3 pm. pic.twitter.com/eTueBv1500 — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × An 'Orange Alert' was issued for Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kasargod districts for Friday. Idukki and Kozhikode have been put on 'Orange Alert' for Saturday as well. Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha was held on Thursday to review the prevailing flood situation in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Gujarat. Last year's disastrous floods in Kerala claimed over 350 lives across the state. The shutters of nearly 33 dangerously full dams and reservoirs were opened for the first time in the history of Kerala in nearly a century. State authorities estimated a cumulative loss worth over Rs 21,000 crore in the catastrophe that was announced as 'calamity of severe nature' by the central government. A 'Red Alert' spells out a warning for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, whereas an 'Orange Alert' denotes that an area is likely to get heavy to very heavy rainfall. (With inputs from ANI)

Kerala rains: Over 20,000 evacuated, more than 300 camps set up across state for assistance

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