ZEE group's international news channel WION swept big honours at the 12th edition of the News Broadcasting Awards (ENBA) on Saturday.

The glittering award ceremony was held in Noida and witnessed WION receiving 7 top awards.

WION clinched the award for the 'Best News Channel of the Year (English) - special jury mention'&nbsp;along with 'Best International News Channel (English)'.&nbsp;

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WION's primetime show 'Gravitas', hosted by channel's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, won the 'Best International News Show (English)'&nbsp;award.

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The channel was honoured for its coverage on the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

WION's tech, auto and travel shows - 'Tech It Out', 'Pitstop' and 'Traveller' bagged the top awards in their respective categories.

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Well done team ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a>⁩ 🥳👏 <a href="https://t.co/CtbRDtXNCS">pic.twitter.com/CtbRDtXNCS</a>
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Here's the complete list of winners:

World Is One News (WION) at ENBA, 2020

Best News Channel of the Year (English) - Special jury mention

Best News Coverage: UN General Assembly&nbsp;

Best International News Channel (English)

Best International News Show (English): Gravitas&nbsp;

Best Gadget: Tech It Out &nbsp;&nbsp;

Best Auto: Pitstop &nbsp;&nbsp;

Best Travel: Traveller &nbsp;

ZEE group's international news channel WION swept big honours at the 12th edition of the News Broadcasting Awards (ENBA) on Saturday. The glittering award ceremony was held in Noida and witnessed WION receiving 7 top awards.

ZEE group's international news channel WION swept big honours at the 12th edition of the News Broadcasting Awards (ENBA) on Saturday. The glittering award ceremony was held in Noida and witnessed WION receiving 7 top awards. WION clinched the award for the 'Best News Channel of the Year (English) - special jury mention' along with 'Best International News Channel (English)'. × WION's primetime show 'Gravitas', hosted by channel's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, won the 'Best International News Show (English)' award. The channel was honoured for its coverage on the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). WION's tech, auto and travel shows - 'Tech It Out', 'Pitstop' and 'Traveller' bagged the top awards in their respective categories. Well done team ⁦@WIONews⁩ 🥳👏 pic.twitter.com/CtbRDtXNCS — Palki Sharma (@palkisu) February 22, 2020 × Here's the complete list of winners: World Is One News (WION) at ENBA, 2020 Best News Channel of the Year (English) - Special jury mention Best News Coverage: UN General Assembly Best International News Channel (English) Best International News Show (English): Gravitas Best Gadget: Tech It Out Best Auto: Pitstop Best Travel: Traveller

WION wins big at News Broadcasting Awards (ENBA), gets honoured for unparalleled UNGA coverage

Massive billboards greeting US President Donald Trump ahead of his India visit and reflecting the bonhomie between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have come up in Agra, which is on the itinerary of the American leader.

From streets near the airport to public squares in the vicinity of the Taj Mahal, the billboards have added to the air of excitement in Agra that is eagerly expecting the arrival of Trump, who will be in the city for a couple of hours.

Trump's convoy route from the airport to the Taj Mahal is about 13 km and along the way thousands of artistes will welcome him with special performances.

On the famous Mall Road, which falls on the route, one hoarding reads 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America, Heartiest Welcome to the Land of Krishna'.

It is accompanied with an image of Trump standing next to Prime Minister Modi.

Another billboard features the two leaders shaking hands and bears the message 'Welcome to the Land of Holy Rivers Yamuna and Ganga'.

Yet another one on the route says 'Welcome to the Land of Rich Heritage of Art and Craft'.

Trump is slated to arrive in Agra on Monday evening after jointly attending with Modi the mega 'Namaste Trump' event at the newly built Motera cricket stadium in Ahmedabad earlier in the day.

The event has been named 'Namaste Trump' on the lines of the 'Howdy, Modi' programme organised in the US last year.

Trump's daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner and a galaxy of top US officials will be part of the high-level delegation accompanying him during his visit to India on February 24 and 25.

The Agra administration is all geared up for the big day and preparations are in full swing to present the 'best face of Agra'.

Another billboard shows Trump and Modi shaking hands with the message 'Two great nations. One great friendship', 'Namaste Trump, February 24'.

Outside the Agra Cantonment station at the Atal Chowk, a banner on Trump's visit also greets people arriving in the city.

In Agra, the Trump family will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before sunset. They will then leave for Delhi.

A huge billboard near the Taj Mahal complex carrying the image of Trump and his wife reads 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America, Her Excellency Melania Trump First Lady of the United States of America, Welcoming you on behalf of the 1350 million people of India'.

Another one says, 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America', welcome to the land of immense opportunities for investment'.&nbsp;

Massive billboards greeting US President Donald Trump ahead of his India visit and reflecting the bonhomie between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have come up in Agra, which is on the itinerary of the American leader.

Massive billboards greeting US President Donald Trump ahead of his India visit and reflecting the bonhomie between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have come up in Agra, which is on the itinerary of the American leader. From streets near the airport to public squares in the vicinity of the Taj Mahal, the billboards have added to the air of excitement in Agra that is eagerly expecting the arrival of Trump, who will be in the city for a couple of hours. Trump's convoy route from the airport to the Taj Mahal is about 13 km and along the way thousands of artistes will welcome him with special performances. On the famous Mall Road, which falls on the route, one hoarding reads 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America, Heartiest Welcome to the Land of Krishna'. It is accompanied with an image of Trump standing next to Prime Minister Modi. Another billboard features the two leaders shaking hands and bears the message 'Welcome to the Land of Holy Rivers Yamuna and Ganga'. Yet another one on the route says 'Welcome to the Land of Rich Heritage of Art and Craft'. Trump is slated to arrive in Agra on Monday evening after jointly attending with Modi the mega 'Namaste Trump' event at the newly built Motera cricket stadium in Ahmedabad earlier in the day. The event has been named 'Namaste Trump' on the lines of the 'Howdy, Modi' programme organised in the US last year. Trump's daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner and a galaxy of top US officials will be part of the high-level delegation accompanying him during his visit to India on February 24 and 25. The Agra administration is all geared up for the big day and preparations are in full swing to present the 'best face of Agra'. Another billboard shows Trump and Modi shaking hands with the message 'Two great nations. One great friendship', 'Namaste Trump, February 24'. Outside the Agra Cantonment station at the Atal Chowk, a banner on Trump's visit also greets people arriving in the city. In Agra, the Trump family will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before sunset. They will then leave for Delhi. A huge billboard near the Taj Mahal complex carrying the image of Trump and his wife reads 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America, Her Excellency Melania Trump First Lady of the United States of America, Welcoming you on behalf of the 1350 million people of India'. Another one says, 'His Excellency Donald J Trump, President of the United States of America', welcome to the land of immense opportunities for investment'.

Huge billboards greeting Trump put up in Agra ahead of his visit 

The Mumbai airport on Saturday said it has started screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal for coronavirus in compliance with the central government's directives.

The Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL), which is the joint venture company managing and operating the city airport, said it is already screening passengers from China, Honk Kong, Singapore, Thailand and South Korea.

Abiding by the recent directive issued by the central government, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has started screening passengers flying from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal to Mumbai as well for the coronavirus infection, the airport said in a statement.

The Ministry of Health has tightened screenings and has issued an advisory requiring all passengers arriving from these countries to undergo screening for the infection, it said.

Health counters have been set up and thermal scanners installed at the pre-immigration area for the arriving passengers by the Airport Health Organisation, the MIAL said in the statement.

Besides, the airport has ensured that alert messages are placed strategically across the terminal and that airlines have been sensitised and informed to follow the instructions of the government, it added.&nbsp;

The Mumbai airport on Saturday said it has started screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal for coronavirus in compliance with the central government's directives.

The Mumbai airport on Saturday said it has started screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal for coronavirus in compliance with the central government's directives. The Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL), which is the joint venture company managing and operating the city airport, said it is already screening passengers from China, Honk Kong, Singapore, Thailand and South Korea. Abiding by the recent directive issued by the central government, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has started screening passengers flying from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal to Mumbai as well for the coronavirus infection, the airport said in a statement. The Ministry of Health has tightened screenings and has issued an advisory requiring all passengers arriving from these countries to undergo screening for the infection, it said. Health counters have been set up and thermal scanners installed at the pre-immigration area for the arriving passengers by the Airport Health Organisation, the MIAL said in the statement. Besides, the airport has ensured that alert messages are placed strategically across the terminal and that airlines have been sensitised and informed to follow the instructions of the government, it added.

Coronavirus: Mumbai airport starts screening passengers arriving from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal

A special Air Force aircraft, which has to fly to Wuhan in China for the evacuation of Indians, is standing at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad.

The aircraft standing at the Hindon Air Force Station has been loaded with medical equipment.

Beijing is yet to grant clearance to the third flight from New Delhi, which will carry relief supplies to the virus-hit nation and also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan, the epicentre of the deadly coronavirus that has killed more than 2,300 people in the East Asian country itself, informed sources told ANI on Saturday.

"Our request for the third flight was submitted on February 13. The flight plan was submitted on February 15. The date of the flight proposed was on February 20. That is five days notice. The delay, therefore, appears to be deliberate," sources said.

"In between the flights to Japan (February 16), Ukraine (February 19) and France (February 20) have taken off from Wuhan. If the work was not critical enough to stop or delay these flights, how did it suddenly become critical for the Indian flight?" they further questioned.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently written to Chinese President Xi Jinping expressing solidarity with the government and people of China in fighting the epidemic outbreak.

India had then also offered to provide assistance to China in the wake of the concerned situation. The government of India then put together relief supplies in pursuance of this commitment as a token of solidarity, particularly as this year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China.

Meanwhile, Indian nationals, who are stuck in Wuhan, are facing hardships due to the delay in the process and continue to wait for the evacuation flight.

The delay in clearance is causing them tremendous mental anguish as the entire Hubei province is still under lockdown.

The sources further added that "Indian nationals are waiting to be brought back from Wuhan. The uncertainty is causing anxiety and mental stress. China should grant clearance to the relief flight which can bring the Indian nationals back."

Earlier this month, India had evacuated over 650 of its citizens from Wuhan in two 747 Boeing Air India aircraft.

Yet, an unknown number of Indians remain in the area and their number is being ascertained, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

While 406 of these are being looked after at the quarantine ITBP facility, rest is at an Army centre at Manesar in Haryana. The Indian Embassy in Beijing estimates more than 50,000 Indian citizens to have been working in mainland China as of early 2019.&nbsp;

A special Air Force aircraft, which has to fly to Wuhan in China for the evacuation of Indians, is standing at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad. The aircraft standing at the Hindon Air Force Station has been loaded with medical equipment.

A special Air Force aircraft, which has to fly to Wuhan in China for the evacuation of Indians, is standing at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad. The aircraft standing at the Hindon Air Force Station has been loaded with medical equipment. Beijing is yet to grant clearance to the third flight from New Delhi, which will carry relief supplies to the virus-hit nation and also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan, the epicentre of the deadly coronavirus that has killed more than 2,300 people in the East Asian country itself, informed sources told ANI on Saturday. "Our request for the third flight was submitted on February 13. The flight plan was submitted on February 15. The date of the flight proposed was on February 20. That is five days notice. The delay, therefore, appears to be deliberate," sources said. "In between the flights to Japan (February 16), Ukraine (February 19) and France (February 20) have taken off from Wuhan. If the work was not critical enough to stop or delay these flights, how did it suddenly become critical for the Indian flight?" they further questioned. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently written to Chinese President Xi Jinping expressing solidarity with the government and people of China in fighting the epidemic outbreak. India had then also offered to provide assistance to China in the wake of the concerned situation. The government of India then put together relief supplies in pursuance of this commitment as a token of solidarity, particularly as this year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China. Meanwhile, Indian nationals, who are stuck in Wuhan, are facing hardships due to the delay in the process and continue to wait for the evacuation flight. The delay in clearance is causing them tremendous mental anguish as the entire Hubei province is still under lockdown. The sources further added that "Indian nationals are waiting to be brought back from Wuhan. The uncertainty is causing anxiety and mental stress. China should grant clearance to the relief flight which can bring the Indian nationals back." Earlier this month, India had evacuated over 650 of its citizens from Wuhan in two 747 Boeing Air India aircraft. Yet, an unknown number of Indians remain in the area and their number is being ascertained, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. While 406 of these are being looked after at the quarantine ITBP facility, rest is at an Army centre at Manesar in Haryana. The Indian Embassy in Beijing estimates more than 50,000 Indian citizens to have been working in mainland China as of early 2019.

Special Air Force aircraft with medical equipment for China at Hindon airbase

China is "deliberately delaying" permission for an Indian Air Force plane to coronavirus-hit Wuhan to supply relief materials and bring back more Indians from the city, official sources said on Saturday.

India submitted its request with Chinese authorities on February 13 for the C-17 military transport aircraft while the flight plan was submitted on February 15 with a proposal mentioning February 20 as its date of departure, they said.

When contacted, a Chinese Embassy spokesperson said there was no deliberate delay in grant of permission for the Indian plane to reach Wuhan, adding China always attaches great importance to health and safety of Indian nationals in living in the country.

"China is deliberately delaying grant of clearance for the evacuation flight," a high-level source said and questioned why the permission was not granted when flights from Japan, Ukraine and France operated from Wuhan between February 16 and 20.

India has already evacuated around 640 Indians from Wuhan in two separate flights. According to estimates, over 100 Indians are still stuck in Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in China.

Government sources said Indian nationals stuck in Wuhan are waiting to be brought back home and the uncertainty over the evacuation is causing them mental stress and anxiety.

The aircraft was to carry a large consignment of medical supplies to China as well.

The sources said while the Chinese side continues to maintain that there was no delay in granting permission for the flight to go, the clearance has "inexplicably" not been given.

"The current epidemic situation in Hubei province is complicated, and the prevention and control of Covid-19 has entered into a critical stage. We are carefully assessing ground situation, as prevention work requires," Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Ji Rong said.

"Competent departments of the two countries are keeping communication and coordination in this regard. There is no such thing as China deliberately delaying granting flight permission," she said.

The death toll in coronavirus in China has gone up to to 2,345 while the confirmed cases have risen to 76,288, Chinese health officials said on Saturday.

In a letter to President Xi Jinping earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India's solidarity to the people and government of China in meeting the challenge of the coronavirus outbreak and offered to provide assistance to the country.

India then put together relief supplies in pursuance of Modi's commitment as a token of India's solidarity, particularly in the 70th year of the anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"These supplies have been offered even as India faces tremendous shortage itself, given our ethos of helping others in their hour of need," said a source aware of the issue.

The items being supplied are gloves, surgical masks, feeding pumps and defibrillators based on the requirements as indicated by the Chinese side.

A sizeable number of countries have evacuated their citizens from China and restricted movement of people and goods to and from the country in view of the massive outbreak of coronavirus there.

Sources said Indian nationals in Wuhan continue their long wait for the flight, adding the delay is causing them and their family members in India tremendous mental anguish.

They said relief and evacuation flights from other countries including by France are allowed to operate by China but the permission has not come through in India's case.

"Are they not interested in Indian aid provided as our token of support? Why are they creating a roadblock in evacuating our nationals from Wuhan and putting them under hardship and mental agony?" said a person aware of the issue.

China is "deliberately delaying" permission for an Indian Air Force plane to coronavirus-hit Wuhan to supply relief materials and bring back more Indians from the city, official sources said on Saturday.

China is "deliberately delaying" permission for an Indian Air Force plane to coronavirus-hit Wuhan to supply relief materials and bring back more Indians from the city, official sources said on Saturday. India submitted its request with Chinese authorities on February 13 for the C-17 military transport aircraft while the flight plan was submitted on February 15 with a proposal mentioning February 20 as its date of departure, they said. When contacted, a Chinese Embassy spokesperson said there was no deliberate delay in grant of permission for the Indian plane to reach Wuhan, adding China always attaches great importance to health and safety of Indian nationals in living in the country. "China is deliberately delaying grant of clearance for the evacuation flight," a high-level source said and questioned why the permission was not granted when flights from Japan, Ukraine and France operated from Wuhan between February 16 and 20. India has already evacuated around 640 Indians from Wuhan in two separate flights. According to estimates, over 100 Indians are still stuck in Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in China. Government sources said Indian nationals stuck in Wuhan are waiting to be brought back home and the uncertainty over the evacuation is causing them mental stress and anxiety. The aircraft was to carry a large consignment of medical supplies to China as well. The sources said while the Chinese side continues to maintain that there was no delay in granting permission for the flight to go, the clearance has "inexplicably" not been given. "The current epidemic situation in Hubei province is complicated, and the prevention and control of Covid-19 has entered into a critical stage. We are carefully assessing ground situation, as prevention work requires," Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Ji Rong said. "Competent departments of the two countries are keeping communication and coordination in this regard. There is no such thing as China deliberately delaying granting flight permission," she said. The death toll in coronavirus in China has gone up to to 2,345 while the confirmed cases have risen to 76,288, Chinese health officials said on Saturday. In a letter to President Xi Jinping earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India's solidarity to the people and government of China in meeting the challenge of the coronavirus outbreak and offered to provide assistance to the country. India then put together relief supplies in pursuance of Modi's commitment as a token of India's solidarity, particularly in the 70th year of the anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. "These supplies have been offered even as India faces tremendous shortage itself, given our ethos of helping others in their hour of need," said a source aware of the issue. The items being supplied are gloves, surgical masks, feeding pumps and defibrillators based on the requirements as indicated by the Chinese side. A sizeable number of countries have evacuated their citizens from China and restricted movement of people and goods to and from the country in view of the massive outbreak of coronavirus there. Sources said Indian nationals in Wuhan continue their long wait for the flight, adding the delay is causing them and their family members in India tremendous mental anguish. They said relief and evacuation flights from other countries including by France are allowed to operate by China but the permission has not come through in India's case. "Are they not interested in Indian aid provided as our token of support? Why are they creating a roadblock in evacuating our nationals from Wuhan and putting them under hardship and mental agony?" said a person aware of the issue.

China delaying permission to India to send IAF plane to Wuhan: Sources

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students.

Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event.

When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter.

According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said.

"Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named.

Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it.

He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness".

"Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said.

Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school.

`"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said.

An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'.

"Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked.

Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states.

He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue.

"The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed.

"If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said.

"Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue.

On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest.

"India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said.

The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions.

Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week.

The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years.

In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states.

Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors.

The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities.

On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will not be present during US First Lady Melania Trump's visit to a Delhi government school in the city on Tuesday as their names were dropped from the guest list for the event, sources said. Melania, the wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students. Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event. When contacted, a US embassy spokesperson referred the query to Delhi government on the matter. According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about rationale behind introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city said. "Names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the list of invitees for the event. We do not know who will receive and brief the First Lady about happiness classes when she visits our school," said a Delhi government official, who wished not to be named. Though there was no official reaction from the Delhi government on the issue, a series of tweets by Sisodia, credited with educational reform in Delhi schools, indicated the AAP dispensation's unhappiness over it. He said "happiness class" is "the solution to all hate and narrow mindedness". "Education is meaningless without happiness. I am happy that Delhi govt schools are showing a path to the world. And the world is curious to know what we are doing in happiness class," he said. Earlier in the day, the deputy chief minister told reporters that the Delhi government had received a request about Melania's visit to a government school. `"If she (Melania) wants to come (to a government school), we welcome her," he said. An AAP functionary argued that in absence of the chief minister and his deputy, who will brief Melania about the 'happiness curriculum'. "Delhi government's happiness curriculum has been lauded across the globe. Who will brief Melania Trump if the chief minister and the deputy chief minister are not present during her visit," he asked. Expressing anguish over exclusion of names of the two leaders from the event, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said it has been a "protocol" and "convention" that the state leaders are present when any foreign dignitary attends events in their states. He also alleged that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia have been dropped from the guest list at the behest of the BJP-led central government. He referred to a press conference by a BJP spokesperson to clarify the saffron party's stand on the issue. "The BJP is claiming that it (Centre) did not ask the US Embassy to drop the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia from the guest list. The comments actually indicated that there is something fishy," Bhardwaj claimed. "If it (the Centre) has not asked it (the US Embassy) to drop names of the CM and deputy CM, then it could have simply requested the embassy to include their names," he said. "Instead of asking the US embassy for the same, holding press conference by a BJP leader is a clear indication that it (BJP) is involved in the entire matter," Bharadwaj said when asked about the issue. On Kejriwal not being part of the guest list for Melania's visit to the Delhi school, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said that there shouldn't be any "low-level politics or petty politics" on issues which are of national interest. "India comes under disrepute if we start pulling each other's legs. The Modi government doesn't influence the US, as to whom they invite or not," he said. The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. According to the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "happiness classes" where they participate in activities like storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and kindergarten students, the classes are held twice a week. The Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been spending a large chunk of its budget on education in the city in the last several years. In its last budget, the Delhi government had set aside 25 per cent of its total budget for the education sector, perhaps highest among other states. Kejriwal led AAP to a spectacular victory in the assembly elections earlier this month primarily riding on his development agenda including reforms in the health and education sectors. The reforms initiated by the AAP government have been lauded by several prominent personalities. On Friday, Kejriwal said his government will provide all possible help to the Maharashtra government to implement education reforms which he said reflected "cooperative federalism at its best".

CM Kejriwal, his deputy Sisodia dropped from Melania's school event

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said he would hold a summit with the leaders of Russia, France and Germany on March 5 to discuss the situation in Syria's last rebel enclave of Idlib.&nbsp;

"We will come together on March 5 and discuss these issues," Erdogan said in a televised speech, following a phone call on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his teleconference with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.&nbsp;

The Turkish leader did not say where the summit would be held but his announcement comes a day after Macron and Merkel called for a four-party Syria summit also involving the Russian leader. &nbsp;

A months-long offensive by Russia-backed Syrian troops against rebels backed by Turkey in northwest Idlib has seen close to one million civilians fleeing the violence.

The two European Union heavyweights on Friday "expressed their willingness to meet President Putin and Turkish President Erdogan to find a political solution to the crisis," the chancellor's office said.

Russia on Wednesday objected to the UN Security Council adopting a statement that would have called for a ceasefire in Idlib, diplomats said, after a tense closed-door meeting.

Turkey, which has threatened an "imminent" operation in Idlib after its troops have come under intense fire from regime forces, has given Damascus until the end of this month to drive back its army positions.

Syrian regime fire has killed 17 Turkish personnel this month alone, sparking a war of words between Ankara and Moscow, a key Damascus ally.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said he would hold a summit with the leaders of Russia, France and Germany on March 5 to discuss the situation in Syria's last rebel enclave of Idlib.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said he would hold a summit with the leaders of Russia, France and Germany on March 5 to discuss the situation in Syria's last rebel enclave of Idlib. "We will come together on March 5 and discuss these issues," Erdogan said in a televised speech, following a phone call on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his teleconference with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The Turkish leader did not say where the summit would be held but his announcement comes a day after Macron and Merkel called for a four-party Syria summit also involving the Russian leader. A months-long offensive by Russia-backed Syrian troops against rebels backed by Turkey in northwest Idlib has seen close to one million civilians fleeing the violence. The two European Union heavyweights on Friday "expressed their willingness to meet President Putin and Turkish President Erdogan to find a political solution to the crisis," the chancellor's office said. Russia on Wednesday objected to the UN Security Council adopting a statement that would have called for a ceasefire in Idlib, diplomats said, after a tense closed-door meeting. Turkey, which has threatened an "imminent" operation in Idlib after its troops have come under intense fire from regime forces, has given Damascus until the end of this month to drive back its army positions. Syrian regime fire has killed 17 Turkish personnel this month alone, sparking a war of words between Ankara and Moscow, a key Damascus ally.

Erdogan to hold Syria summit with Russia, France and Germany

The World Health Organization warned Saturday that African health systems were ill-equipped to respond to the deadly coronavirus outbreak should cases start to proliferate on the continent.&nbsp;

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on African Union member states "to come together to be more aggressive in attacking" the virus, known as COVID-19.

"Our biggest concern continues to be the potential for COVID-19 to spread in countries with weaker health systems," Tedros, speaking by video link from Geneva, said during a meeting of 36 African health ministers at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa.

The outbreak which began in December has already killed more than 2,200 people and infected more than 75,500 in China.

More than 1,150 people have also been infected outside China, although Egypt is the only African country to have recorded a confirmed case.

There have been more than 200 suspected cases in the WHO's AFRO region, which includes most African countries, though nearly all have been confirmed negative, regional director Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti said Saturday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-disinformation-campaign-fueling-coronavirus-alarm-us-282159">Russia-linked disinformation campaign fueling coronavirus alarm - US</a>

But if COVID-19 starts to spread on the continent, African health systems will struggle to treat patients suffering from symptoms such as respiratory failure, septic shock and multi-organ failure, Tedros said. &nbsp;

"These patients require intensive care using equipment such as respiratory support machines that are, as you know, in short supply in many African countries and that's a cause for concern," he said.&nbsp;

Several African airlines including Kenya Airways have suspended flights to China, although the continent's biggest carrier Ethiopian Airlines has kept its China routes open.

Liu Yuxi, China's ambassador to the AU, on Saturday urged officials to ease travel restrictions

"I hope that everyone will stay calm and objective. Excessive panic could actually increase the disease," he said.&nbsp;

AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat told officials to take "drastic preventive and control measures".

"Africa, is particularly at risk, given its relatively fragile health systems," he said.

'Looming threat'

African countries have been scrambling to develop the capacity to test for COVID-19.

In three weeks, the number of African countries capable of conducting their own tests has jumped from two to 26, Moeti said.&nbsp;

John Nkengasong, director of the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, told AFP that number would soon be well over 40.

Yet he noted that if COVID-19 cases started emerging in large numbers African countries could encounter shortages of testing kits and personal protective equipment like face masks. &nbsp;

"If truly we have a virus introduced on the continent and it becomes a larger issue, the ability to procure diagnostics in a timely fashion to support that testing will still be limited," he said.&nbsp;

"We are facing a looming threat, a serious threat for the continent," he added.&nbsp;

Tedros said in his remarks that 30,000 sets of personal protective equipment had been shipped "to several countries in Africa", and that 60,000 more tests would be sent to 19 countries "in the coming weeks".

He also announced that Nkengasong and Samba Sow, director-general of the Centre for Vaccine Development in Mali, had been appointed special envoys for the African response to COVID-19.

Tedros said their mandate was "to provide strategic advice and high-level political advocacy and engagement in Africa."

The World Health Organization warned Saturday that African health systems were ill-equipped to respond to the deadly coronavirus outbreak should cases start to proliferate on the continent.

The World Health Organization warned Saturday that African health systems were ill-equipped to respond to the deadly coronavirus outbreak should cases start to proliferate on the continent. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on African Union member states "to come together to be more aggressive in attacking" the virus, known as COVID-19. "Our biggest concern continues to be the potential for COVID-19 to spread in countries with weaker health systems," Tedros, speaking by video link from Geneva, said during a meeting of 36 African health ministers at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. The outbreak which began in December has already killed more than 2,200 people and infected more than 75,500 in China. More than 1,150 people have also been infected outside China, although Egypt is the only African country to have recorded a confirmed case. There have been more than 200 suspected cases in the WHO's AFRO region, which includes most African countries, though nearly all have been confirmed negative, regional director Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti said Saturday. Also read: Russia-linked disinformation campaign fueling coronavirus alarm - US But if COVID-19 starts to spread on the continent, African health systems will struggle to treat patients suffering from symptoms such as respiratory failure, septic shock and multi-organ failure, Tedros said. "These patients require intensive care using equipment such as respiratory support machines that are, as you know, in short supply in many African countries and that's a cause for concern," he said. Several African airlines including Kenya Airways have suspended flights to China, although the continent's biggest carrier Ethiopian Airlines has kept its China routes open. Liu Yuxi, China's ambassador to the AU, on Saturday urged officials to ease travel restrictions "I hope that everyone will stay calm and objective. Excessive panic could actually increase the disease," he said. AU Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat told officials to take "drastic preventive and control measures". "Africa, is particularly at risk, given its relatively fragile health systems," he said. 'Looming threat' African countries have been scrambling to develop the capacity to test for COVID-19. In three weeks, the number of African countries capable of conducting their own tests has jumped from two to 26, Moeti said. John Nkengasong, director of the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, told AFP that number would soon be well over 40. Yet he noted that if COVID-19 cases started emerging in large numbers African countries could encounter shortages of testing kits and personal protective equipment like face masks. "If truly we have a virus introduced on the continent and it becomes a larger issue, the ability to procure diagnostics in a timely fashion to support that testing will still be limited," he said. "We are facing a looming threat, a serious threat for the continent," he added. Tedros said in his remarks that 30,000 sets of personal protective equipment had been shipped "to several countries in Africa", and that 60,000 more tests would be sent to 19 countries "in the coming weeks". He also announced that Nkengasong and Samba Sow, director-general of the Centre for Vaccine Development in Mali, had been appointed special envoys for the African response to COVID-19. Tedros said their mandate was "to provide strategic advice and high-level political advocacy and engagement in Africa."

WHO sounds alarm over Africa coronavirus preparedness

Thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts have launched a coordinated effort to spread alarm about the new coronavirus, disrupting global efforts to fight the epidemic, US officials say.

The disinformation campaign promotes unfounded conspiracy theories that the United States is behind the COVID-19 outbreak, in an apparent bid to damage the US image around the world by seizing on health concerns.

State Department officials tasked with combating Russian disinformation told AFP that false personas are being used on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to advance Russian talking points in multiple languages.

"Russia's intent is to sow discord and undermine US institutions and alliances from within, including through covert and coercive malign influence campaigns," said Philip Reeker, the acting Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-coronavirus-death-sparks-fears-lockdown-in-italian-towns-282140">Second coronavirus death sparks fears, lockdown in Italian towns</a>

"By spreading disinformation about coronavirus, Russian malign actors are once again choosing to threaten public safety by distracting from the global health response," he said.

The claims that have been circulating in recent weeks include allegations that the virus is a US effort to "wage economic war on China," that it is a biological weapon manufactured by the CIA or part of a Western-led effort "to push anti-China messages."

US individuals including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, a philanthropist who has spent billions on global health programs, have also been falsely accused of involvement in the virus.

The disinformation campaign was identified by US monitors in mid-January after Chinese officials announced a third death from the new coronavirus in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-steps-up-battle-against-deadly-coronavirus-appoints-six-special-envoys-282134">WHO steps up battle against deadly coronavirus, appoints six special envoys</a>

More than 2,340 people have since died, mostly in China. The number of cases exceeds 76,000 and the virus has reached around 25 countries. Among them is Iran, which on Saturday ordered the closure of schools and universities in two cities, after a fifth death.

Close coordination observed

Several thousand online accounts -- previously identified for airing Russian-backed messages on major events such as the war in Syria, the Yellow Vest protests in France and Chile's mass demonstrations -- are posting "almost near-identical" messages about the novel coronavirus, according to a report prepared for the State Department's Global Engagement Center and seen by AFP.

The accounts -- run by humans, not bots -- post at similar times in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French and can be linked back to Russian proxies, or carry similar messages to Russian-backed outlets such as RT and Sputnik, it said. &nbsp;

Russian state-funded media started pushing anti-Western messages about the cause of the epidemic on January 20, with operators of the social media accounts beginning to post globally the following day, US officials say.

"In this case, we were able to see their full disinformation ecosystem in effect, including state TV, proxy web sites and thousands of false social media personas all pushing the same themes," said Special Envoy Lea Gabrielle, head of the Global Engagement Center, which is tasked with tracking and exposing propaganda and disinformation.

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During many past news events, the accounts would post actively for up to 72 hours. But messages about the new coronavirus have been uploaded every day over the past month -- a sign, US officials said, of Russia's investment in a story unlikely to disappear soon from the headlines.

"In the Russian doctrine of information confrontation, this is classic," said another official from the Global Engagement Center.&nbsp;

"The number of coronavirus cases globally hasn't reached its apex, so the Russian strategy is to very cheaply but very effectively take advantage of the information environment to sow discord between us and China, or for economic purposes."

Experts saw parallels with previous conspiracy theories traced to Moscow, including a KGB disinformation campaign in the 1980s that convinced many around the world that US scientists created the HIV virus that causes AIDS.

US intelligence has also said that Russia interfered through social media manipulation in the 2016 election and seeks to do so again in 2020. The Kremlin has denied the charges and President Donald Trump has scoffed at suggestions of Russian help.

Risks seen in response

Scientists believe the COVID-19 illness originated in late December in Wuhan at a market selling exotic animals for human consumption.

Bats are known carriers of this strain of the coronavirus, whose official name is SARS-CoV-2, but scientists think it spread to humans via another mammal species, possibly pangolins.

The US believes the latest Russian disinformation campaign is making it harder to respond to the epidemic, particularly in Africa and Asia, with some of the public becoming suspicious of the Western response.

The World Health Organization warned Friday that the window to stem the outbreak was narrowing, voicing alarm at a surge of cases with no clear link to China.

A State Department official said that Russian operatives appeared to have been given "carte blanche" to attack the US reputation.

"Whether or not a particular theme is being directed at the highest levels doesn't matter. It's the fact that they have freelance ability to operate in this space to do whatever damage they can, which could have seismic implications."

Thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts have launched a coordinated effort to spread alarm about the new coronavirus, disrupting global efforts to fight the epidemic, US officials say.

Thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts have launched a coordinated effort to spread alarm about the new coronavirus, disrupting global efforts to fight the epidemic, US officials say. The disinformation campaign promotes unfounded conspiracy theories that the United States is behind the COVID-19 outbreak, in an apparent bid to damage the US image around the world by seizing on health concerns. State Department officials tasked with combating Russian disinformation told AFP that false personas are being used on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to advance Russian talking points in multiple languages. "Russia's intent is to sow discord and undermine US institutions and alliances from within, including through covert and coercive malign influence campaigns," said Philip Reeker, the acting Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia. Also read: Second coronavirus death sparks fears, lockdown in Italian towns "By spreading disinformation about coronavirus, Russian malign actors are once again choosing to threaten public safety by distracting from the global health response," he said. The claims that have been circulating in recent weeks include allegations that the virus is a US effort to "wage economic war on China," that it is a biological weapon manufactured by the CIA or part of a Western-led effort "to push anti-China messages." US individuals including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, a philanthropist who has spent billions on global health programs, have also been falsely accused of involvement in the virus. The disinformation campaign was identified by US monitors in mid-January after Chinese officials announced a third death from the new coronavirus in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak. Also read: WHO steps up battle against deadly coronavirus, appoints six special envoys More than 2,340 people have since died, mostly in China. The number of cases exceeds 76,000 and the virus has reached around 25 countries. Among them is Iran, which on Saturday ordered the closure of schools and universities in two cities, after a fifth death. Close coordination observed Several thousand online accounts -- previously identified for airing Russian-backed messages on major events such as the war in Syria, the Yellow Vest protests in France and Chile's mass demonstrations -- are posting "almost near-identical" messages about the novel coronavirus, according to a report prepared for the State Department's Global Engagement Center and seen by AFP. The accounts -- run by humans, not bots -- post at similar times in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French and can be linked back to Russian proxies, or carry similar messages to Russian-backed outlets such as RT and Sputnik, it said. Russian state-funded media started pushing anti-Western messages about the cause of the epidemic on January 20, with operators of the social media accounts beginning to post globally the following day, US officials say. "In this case, we were able to see their full disinformation ecosystem in effect, including state TV, proxy web sites and thousands of false social media personas all pushing the same themes," said Special Envoy Lea Gabrielle, head of the Global Engagement Center, which is tasked with tracking and exposing propaganda and disinformation. × During many past news events, the accounts would post actively for up to 72 hours. But messages about the new coronavirus have been uploaded every day over the past month -- a sign, US officials said, of Russia's investment in a story unlikely to disappear soon from the headlines. "In the Russian doctrine of information confrontation, this is classic," said another official from the Global Engagement Center. "The number of coronavirus cases globally hasn't reached its apex, so the Russian strategy is to very cheaply but very effectively take advantage of the information environment to sow discord between us and China, or for economic purposes." Experts saw parallels with previous conspiracy theories traced to Moscow, including a KGB disinformation campaign in the 1980s that convinced many around the world that US scientists created the HIV virus that causes AIDS. US intelligence has also said that Russia interfered through social media manipulation in the 2016 election and seeks to do so again in 2020. The Kremlin has denied the charges and President Donald Trump has scoffed at suggestions of Russian help. Risks seen in response Scientists believe the COVID-19 illness originated in late December in Wuhan at a market selling exotic animals for human consumption. Bats are known carriers of this strain of the coronavirus, whose official name is SARS-CoV-2, but scientists think it spread to humans via another mammal species, possibly pangolins. The US believes the latest Russian disinformation campaign is making it harder to respond to the epidemic, particularly in Africa and Asia, with some of the public becoming suspicious of the Western response. The World Health Organization warned Friday that the window to stem the outbreak was narrowing, voicing alarm at a surge of cases with no clear link to China. A State Department official said that Russian operatives appeared to have been given "carte blanche" to attack the US reputation. "Whether or not a particular theme is being directed at the highest levels doesn't matter. It's the fact that they have freelance ability to operate in this space to do whatever damage they can, which could have seismic implications."

Russia-linked disinformation campaign fueling coronavirus alarm: US

Ahead of the US President Donald Trump's visit to India on Monday, Washington has said that Pakistan needs to act on terror groups for having a successful dialogue with India.

A senior US administration official said, "We continue to believe a core foundation of any successful dialogue between the two is based on continued momentum in Pakistan's efforts to crack down on terrorists and extremists on its territory. So we continue to look for that."

The comments come even as Pakistan remains on anti-terrorist financing body FATF's 'grey list' due to its failure to implement its action plan which calls acting on terror groups based on its territory and territories under control. The FATF in a statement released on Friday said, "all deadlines in the action plan have expired" and it now has time till June of this year or "FATF will take action".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/washington-looks-for-indian-support-ahead-of-taliban-us-deal-282155">Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal</a>

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Asked, if US President will raise the mediation on Kashmir during his 2-day India tour, the official said, "I think what you'll hear from the President is very much encouraging a reduction in tensions between India and Pakistan, encouraging the two countries to engage in bilateral dialogue with each other to resolve their differences."

Adding, "President will urge both countries to seek to maintain peace and stability along the line of control and refrain from actions or statements that could increase tensions in the region".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/global-watchdog-fatf-keeps-pakistan-on-terrorism-financing-grey-list-282068">Global watchdog FATF keeps Pakistan on terrorism financing 'grey list'</a>

US President last year, during Pak Prime minister Imran Khan's Washington visit, had said that Washington can mediate between India and Pakistan, something he repeated many times later.

New Delhi had categorially dismissed the idea, with PM Modi during his meet with US President in France on the sidelines of G7 said, India and Pakistan can "bilaterally" resolve all issues and "we don't want to trouble any third country".

India's official stance when it comes to India and Pakistan ties is no third party mediation which has been stated under the Shimla and Lahore agreements.

Ahead of the US President Donald Trump's visit to India on Monday, Washington has said that Pakistan needs to act on terror groups for having a successful dialogue with India.

Ahead of the US President Donald Trump's visit to India on Monday, Washington has said that Pakistan needs to act on terror groups for having a successful dialogue with India. A senior US administration official said, "We continue to believe a core foundation of any successful dialogue between the two is based on continued momentum in Pakistan's efforts to crack down on terrorists and extremists on its territory. So we continue to look for that." The comments come even as Pakistan remains on anti-terrorist financing body FATF's 'grey list' due to its failure to implement its action plan which calls acting on terror groups based on its territory and territories under control. The FATF in a statement released on Friday said, "all deadlines in the action plan have expired" and it now has time till June of this year or "FATF will take action". Also read: Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal × Asked, if US President will raise the mediation on Kashmir during his 2-day India tour, the official said, "I think what you'll hear from the President is very much encouraging a reduction in tensions between India and Pakistan, encouraging the two countries to engage in bilateral dialogue with each other to resolve their differences." Adding, "President will urge both countries to seek to maintain peace and stability along the line of control and refrain from actions or statements that could increase tensions in the region". Also read: Global watchdog FATF keeps Pakistan on terrorism financing 'grey list' US President last year, during Pak Prime minister Imran Khan's Washington visit, had said that Washington can mediate between India and Pakistan, something he repeated many times later. New Delhi had categorially dismissed the idea, with PM Modi during his meet with US President in France on the sidelines of G7 said, India and Pakistan can "bilaterally" resolve all issues and "we don't want to trouble any third country". India's official stance when it comes to India and Pakistan ties is no third party mediation which has been stated under the Shimla and Lahore agreements.

Islamabad has to act on terror for successful India-Pak dialogue: US

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday graced the second day of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest).&nbsp;

After an engaging session with Zee News Editor in Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on 'Nationalism in times of strife: New dimensions of nationalism', Shah gave a rousing address and urged the youth of the nation to take pride in India's culture, heritage and languages.

Shah lauded Zee News's initiative to hold the Arth Fest and said that the festival is a medium to keep alive and spread the essence of India's rich cultural diversity, tradition and heritage.&nbsp;

Also read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economies-are-not-run-by-governments-but-by-people-lord-meghnad-desai-at-arth-a-culture-fest-282084">Economies are not run by governments but by people,' says Lord Meghnad Desai at 'Arth - A Culture Fest'</a>

"No news channel in today's date is talking about India's, culture, literature, tradition. If a channel like Zee is doing it, it means they are not working for their commercial interest but for the interest of the nation and its progress," the minister said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In his parting words, Shah urged the citizens to converse in their mother tongue saying, "if the language is conserved, the heritage, the culture, the literature, arts and music all will be conserved and will be immortalised".&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arth-a-culture-fest-a-glimpse-of-indias-culture-begins-in-delhi-281947">Arth Fest - A glimpse of India's culture begins in Delhi</a>

The second edition of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest) started yesterday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi.&nbsp;

Arth: A Culture Fest, will last for three days (21, 22 and 23 February). In the three-day festival, people will get a glimpse of the culture of India. 
'Arth' is a cultural celebration intended to showcase the ways of India's culture. Starting from today, the festival will focus on literature, culture, society, music, traditions, history and art.

The first two days of the event saw many engaging and discussions between eminent personalities from the world of arts, culture, literature and many other fields.&nbsp;

Schedule of Arth: A Culture Fest (day 3)

Third day (23 February 2020)

11am - Cymbals from the North-East: Manipuri Pung and Dole Cholam artist: Sinam Basu

11:45pm - Sacred ecologies: Indic Faiths and their Message (Panelist): David Frole, Dushyant Sridhar, Hema Hari, Moderator: DK Hari

12:30pm - Life in Literature - Ruskin Bond talks with Premak Goswami

1:15pm - Discussion on culture and art: Conversation between Prasoon Joshi and Yatindra Mishra

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday graced the second day of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest). After an engaging session with Zee News Editor in Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on 'Nationalism in times of strife: New dimensions of nationalism', Shah gave a rousing address and urged the youth of the nation to take pride in India's culture, heritage and languages.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday graced the second day of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest). After an engaging session with Zee News Editor in Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on 'Nationalism in times of strife: New dimensions of nationalism', Shah gave a rousing address and urged the youth of the nation to take pride in India's culture, heritage and languages. Shah lauded Zee News's initiative to hold the Arth Fest and said that the festival is a medium to keep alive and spread the essence of India's rich cultural diversity, tradition and heritage. Also read: 'Economies are not run by governments but by people,' says Lord Meghnad Desai at 'Arth - A Culture Fest' "No news channel in today's date is talking about India's, culture, literature, tradition. If a channel like Zee is doing it, it means they are not working for their commercial interest but for the interest of the nation and its progress," the minister said. In his parting words, Shah urged the citizens to converse in their mother tongue saying, "if the language is conserved, the heritage, the culture, the literature, arts and music all will be conserved and will be immortalised". Also read: Arth Fest - A glimpse of India's culture begins in Delhi The second edition of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest) started yesterday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi. Arth: A Culture Fest, will last for three days (21, 22 and 23 February). In the three-day festival, people will get a glimpse of the culture of India. 'Arth' is a cultural celebration intended to showcase the ways of India's culture. Starting from today, the festival will focus on literature, culture, society, music, traditions, history and art. The first two days of the event saw many engaging and discussions between eminent personalities from the world of arts, culture, literature and many other fields. Schedule of Arth: A Culture Fest (day 3) Third day (23 February 2020) 11am - Cymbals from the North-East: Manipuri Pung and Dole Cholam artist: Sinam Basu 11:45pm - Sacred ecologies: Indic Faiths and their Message (Panelist): David Frole, Dushyant Sridhar, Hema Hari, Moderator: DK Hari 12:30pm - Life in Literature - Ruskin Bond talks with Premak Goswami 1:15pm - Discussion on culture and art: Conversation between Prasoon Joshi and Yatindra Mishra

Celebrate, conserve our language, it will immortalise our culture: Amit Shah at Arth - 'A Culture Fest'

A stretch of the road closed for over two months in Shaheen Bagh due to an anti-citizenship law protest was "opened" by a group of demonstrators on Saturday, only to be closed after some time, police said.

"Road number 9 in Shaheen Bagh was reopened by a group of protesters, but later it was closed by another group," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) R P Meena said.

Protestors claimed that they "opened" the stretch, which would allow passage to commuters between Noida and South Delhi, at around 5 pm near the protest site, but the Delhi police and the Noida police were continuing to barricade it from one side.

The road, which connects Noida to south-east Delhi and further to Faridabad in Haryana, was closed for traffic in the wake of the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protest at Shaheen Bagh since December 15.

The development came after three days of talks between the Supreme Court-appointed interlocutors -- senior advocates Sanjay Hegde and Sadhana Ramachandran -- and the protesters over the issue of difficulty to commuters due to blocking of roads.

According to the police, the protesters briefly opened a small portion of a road leading to Kalindi Kunj so that locals can pass through it with their two-wheelers.

The Noida Traffic Police, however, also continued the restrictions on the Uttar Pradesh side of the road, an official told PTI.

"It was being alleged repeatedly that the protestors have blocked the Kalindi Kunj road, which leads to Noida Sector 37. So, today it was decided that this allegation has to be done away with and the route was opened," Sonu Warsi, a protestor, said.

"The decision was also taken to give a gift to the Supreme Court-appointed interlocutors, whose interaction and mediation has helped reopen the case. We have opened the road and it is now up to the Delhi Police and UP police to decide which vehicles they will allow," he added.

After the talks on Friday, Hegde had said the protesters, in principle, were not fundamentally against the opening of the non-protest side of the road if their security could be guaranteed in writing by the Delhi Police under suitable orders of the apex court.

"We will not be holding a public interaction tomorrow to enable the protesters to come to an independent conclusion as to the way forward. We will return on Sunday only if we deem it necessary and feasible to do so," he had said.&nbsp;

A stretch of the road closed for over two months in Shaheen Bagh due to an anti-citizenship law protest was "opened" by a group of demonstrators on Saturday, only to be closed after some time, police said.

A stretch of the road closed for over two months in Shaheen Bagh due to an anti-citizenship law protest was "opened" by a group of demonstrators on Saturday, only to be closed after some time, police said. "Road number 9 in Shaheen Bagh was reopened by a group of protesters, but later it was closed by another group," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) R P Meena said. Protestors claimed that they "opened" the stretch, which would allow passage to commuters between Noida and South Delhi, at around 5 pm near the protest site, but the Delhi police and the Noida police were continuing to barricade it from one side. The road, which connects Noida to south-east Delhi and further to Faridabad in Haryana, was closed for traffic in the wake of the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protest at Shaheen Bagh since December 15. The development came after three days of talks between the Supreme Court-appointed interlocutors -- senior advocates Sanjay Hegde and Sadhana Ramachandran -- and the protesters over the issue of difficulty to commuters due to blocking of roads. According to the police, the protesters briefly opened a small portion of a road leading to Kalindi Kunj so that locals can pass through it with their two-wheelers. The Noida Traffic Police, however, also continued the restrictions on the Uttar Pradesh side of the road, an official told PTI. "It was being alleged repeatedly that the protestors have blocked the Kalindi Kunj road, which leads to Noida Sector 37. So, today it was decided that this allegation has to be done away with and the route was opened," Sonu Warsi, a protestor, said. "The decision was also taken to give a gift to the Supreme Court-appointed interlocutors, whose interaction and mediation has helped reopen the case. We have opened the road and it is now up to the Delhi Police and UP police to decide which vehicles they will allow," he added. After the talks on Friday, Hegde had said the protesters, in principle, were not fundamentally against the opening of the non-protest side of the road if their security could be guaranteed in writing by the Delhi Police under suitable orders of the apex court. "We will not be holding a public interaction tomorrow to enable the protesters to come to an independent conclusion as to the way forward. We will return on Sunday only if we deem it necessary and feasible to do so," he had said.

Road at Shaheen Bagh opened by group of protesters, blocked again: Police

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