US&nbsp;House of Representatives Intelligence Committee Democrats have begun writing their report on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-impeachment-witness-of-lying-defends-use-of-giuliani-264142">impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump</a> - a key step moving the process forward - but still may obtain more witness depositions and hold further hearings, the panel's chairman said on Sunday.

Representative Adam Schiff, who is spearheading the inquiry that threatens Trump presidency, said the Democratic-led committee would continue investigations as it works on the report after two weeks of public hearings with testimony from current and former US&nbsp;officials. The panel has held five public hearings and has no more scheduled.

The report could pave the way for House consideration of articles of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-behaviour-worse-than-nixon-head-of-impeachment-probe-263752">impeachment - formal charges</a> - against Trump. If these are approved, the Senate, controlled by Trump's fellow Republicans, would then hold a trial on whether to convict the president and remove him from office.

The inquiry centers on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate political rival Joe Biden as well as a discredited conspiracy theory promoted by Trump that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential election.

"We don't foreclose the possibility of more depositions, more hearings. We are in the process of getting more documents all the time. So that investigative work is being done," Schiff said on CNN's "State of the Union" program.

"What we're not going to do is wait months and months while the administration plays a game of 'rope a dope' in an effort to try to stall. We're not willing to go down that road," Schiff said.

"Rope a dope" is a term originated by the late boxer Muhammad Ali referring to delaying tactics.

Trump's administration has refused to provide documents requested by House Democrats and blocked witnesses from testifying including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, former national security adviser John Bolton and acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney. Other current and former officials have defied White House instructions not to testify.

Schiff said the committee learns more information every day and he expects that to continue but the evidence is already so "overwhelming and uncontested" that lawmakers wanted to begin drafting the report for transmission the Judiciary Committee.

"Even as we compile this report, even as we submit evidence to the Judiciary Committee, we're going to continue our investigation," he said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

The Judiciary Committee could conduct more proceedings if needed, including hearings, that allow Trump and his counsel to participate. The panel would draft any articles of impeachment against Trump before they would go to the full House for a vote.

Democrats also are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US&nbsp;ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting the two investigations that could be politically beneficial to Trump.

The money - approved by the US&nbsp;Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view.

Trump is running for re-election in 2020. Biden is a leading Democratic contender to face Trump in that election.

US House of Representatives Intelligence Committee Democrats have begun writing their report on the impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump - a key step moving the process forward - but still may obtain more witness depositions and hold further hearings, the panel's chairman said on Sunday.

US House of Representatives Intelligence Committee Democrats have begun writing their report on the impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump - a key step moving the process forward - but still may obtain more witness depositions and hold further hearings, the panel's chairman said on Sunday. Representative Adam Schiff, who is spearheading the inquiry that threatens Trump presidency, said the Democratic-led committee would continue investigations as it works on the report after two weeks of public hearings with testimony from current and former US officials. The panel has held five public hearings and has no more scheduled. The report could pave the way for House consideration of articles of impeachment - formal charges - against Trump. If these are approved, the Senate, controlled by Trump's fellow Republicans, would then hold a trial on whether to convict the president and remove him from office. The inquiry centers on a July 25 telephone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate political rival Joe Biden as well as a discredited conspiracy theory promoted by Trump that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US presidential election. "We don't foreclose the possibility of more depositions, more hearings. We are in the process of getting more documents all the time. So that investigative work is being done," Schiff said on CNN's "State of the Union" program. "What we're not going to do is wait months and months while the administration plays a game of 'rope a dope' in an effort to try to stall. We're not willing to go down that road," Schiff said. "Rope a dope" is a term originated by the late boxer Muhammad Ali referring to delaying tactics. Trump's administration has refused to provide documents requested by House Democrats and blocked witnesses from testifying including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, former national security adviser John Bolton and acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney. Other current and former officials have defied White House instructions not to testify. Schiff said the committee learns more information every day and he expects that to continue but the evidence is already so "overwhelming and uncontested" that lawmakers wanted to begin drafting the report for transmission the Judiciary Committee. "Even as we compile this report, even as we submit evidence to the Judiciary Committee, we're going to continue our investigation," he said on NBC's "Meet the Press." The Judiciary Committee could conduct more proceedings if needed, including hearings, that allow Trump and his counsel to participate. The panel would draft any articles of impeachment against Trump before they would go to the full House for a vote. Democrats also are looking into whether Trump abused his power by withholding $391 million in security aid to Ukraine - a vulnerable US ally facing Russian aggression - as leverage to pressure Kiev into conducting the two investigations that could be politically beneficial to Trump. The money - approved by the US Congress to help Ukraine combat Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country - was later provided to Kiev in September after the controversy had spilled into public view. Trump is running for re-election in 2020. Biden is a leading Democratic contender to face Trump in that election.

Top Democrat says more testimony, hearings possible in Trump impeachment

In his 59th edition of the Mann Ki Baat radio program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced the launch of 'Fit India School grading system'&nbsp;in schools across the country.

"In the Fit India Movement, schedules have been drawn for ranking schools in accordance with fitness. The schools that achieve this ranking will also be able to use the 'Fit India'&nbsp;logo and flag," Modi said.

The Fit India School rankings have been divided into three categories - The Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking, Fit India School (3 star) and Fit India School (5 star).

The level of ranking will depend on how much importance the school gives to inculcating overall fitness among its students and teachers and infrastructural facilities available for fitness activities.

"Schools can declare themselves as fit by visiting the Fit India portal. Fit India three-star and Fit India five-star ratings will also be given. I appeal that all schools should enroll in the Fit India ranking system and Fit India should become innate to our temperament. That it becomes a mass movement and bring awareness is what we must strive for," the Prime Minister said.

The Fit India School ranking system has been drawn up by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in discussion with the Ministry of Human Resource Development.

Speaking about the importance of the ranking system, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju said,&nbsp;"The ranking system will help parents understand if a school attaches importance to fitness activities or not."

"Inculcating the habit to stay fit from a young age leads to children being not just physically healthy, but gives them mental sharpness and focus too. When our children are fit, India is bound to turn into a fit country. It is a behavioural change that we strive to bring about," Rijiju added.

Urging all state boards to celebrate the Fit India Week in December, PM Modi hailed the on-going Fit India Week celebrations in CBSE schools across the country. Modi said,&nbsp;"CBSE has taken a commendable initiative of introducing the concept of 'Fit India week'. I appeal to the school boards and management of all the states of the country that Fit India Week should be celebrated in every school, in the month of December."

"This will inculcate the habit of fitness in our daily routine. There are many types of events to be organized with regards to the aspect of fitness. This includes quiz, essays, articles, paintings, traditional and local sports, yogasana, dance, sports and games competitions. Students, as well as their teachers and parents, can participate in the Fit India Week," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In his 59th edition of the Mann Ki Baat radio program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced the launch of 'Fit India School grading system' in schools across the country.

In his 59th edition of the Mann Ki Baat radio program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced the launch of 'Fit India School grading system' in schools across the country. "In the Fit India Movement, schedules have been drawn for ranking schools in accordance with fitness. The schools that achieve this ranking will also be able to use the 'Fit India' logo and flag," Modi said. The Fit India School rankings have been divided into three categories - The Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking, Fit India School (3 star) and Fit India School (5 star). The level of ranking will depend on how much importance the school gives to inculcating overall fitness among its students and teachers and infrastructural facilities available for fitness activities. "Schools can declare themselves as fit by visiting the Fit India portal. Fit India three-star and Fit India five-star ratings will also be given. I appeal that all schools should enroll in the Fit India ranking system and Fit India should become innate to our temperament. That it becomes a mass movement and bring awareness is what we must strive for," the Prime Minister said. The Fit India School ranking system has been drawn up by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in discussion with the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Speaking about the importance of the ranking system, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju said, "The ranking system will help parents understand if a school attaches importance to fitness activities or not." "Inculcating the habit to stay fit from a young age leads to children being not just physically healthy, but gives them mental sharpness and focus too. When our children are fit, India is bound to turn into a fit country. It is a behavioural change that we strive to bring about," Rijiju added. Urging all state boards to celebrate the Fit India Week in December, PM Modi hailed the on-going Fit India Week celebrations in CBSE schools across the country. Modi said, "CBSE has taken a commendable initiative of introducing the concept of 'Fit India week'. I appeal to the school boards and management of all the states of the country that Fit India Week should be celebrated in every school, in the month of December." "This will inculcate the habit of fitness in our daily routine. There are many types of events to be organized with regards to the aspect of fitness. This includes quiz, essays, articles, paintings, traditional and local sports, yogasana, dance, sports and games competitions. Students, as well as their teachers and parents, can participate in the Fit India Week," he added.

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi announces launch of 'Fit India School rankings'

Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress' joint plea against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">government formation by the BJP in Maharashtra</a> will be heard by the Supreme Court on Sunday at around 11.30 am, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Uddhav Thackeray-led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-tussle-shiv-sena-files-petition-in-supreme-court-against-devendra-fadnavis-ajit-pawars-oath-taking-264109">Shiv Sena filed a writ petition</a> on Saturday in the Supreme Court against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-hai-to-mumkin-hai-devendra-fadnavis-assures-stable-government-in-maharashtra-264088">Devendra Fadnavis</a> and Ajit Pawar oath-taking as Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy CM respectively.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

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Supreme Court to hear on tomorrow at 11.30 am the joint plea of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Indian National Congress against the decision of Maharashtra Governor inviting Devendra Fadnavis to form the government on November 23. <a href="https://t.co/Be4lMgmSNH">pic.twitter.com/Be4lMgmSNH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198270989672435718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state.

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Nawab Malik, NCP after meeting of party MLAs: A resolution was passed unanimously that party does not endorse Ajit Pawar's decision&amp;he has been removed as NCP legislative party leader.Till the election of new leader,Jayant Patil is given responsibilities of the post. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/4PwefMVk71">pic.twitter.com/4PwefMVk71</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198265538255806465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The move came at a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the government formation had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

Meanwhile, the NCP has passed a unanimous resolution to not endorse Ajit Pawar's decision. Pawar has been removed as NCP legislative party leader and until a new leader is elected, senior leader Jayant Patil is vested with the responsibilities of the post.

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In its swift move in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>, the BJP gave out a definitive message - it didn't want to repeat what happened in Karnataka. 
 
Watch WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/kartikeya_1975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kartikeya_1975</a> decode the unexpected chain of events in Maharashtra's ongoing political tussle <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraPolitics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraPolitics</a> <a href="https://t.co/YQfpEUE3kE">pic.twitter.com/YQfpEUE3kE</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1198206287407804416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Friday, after concluding discussions with the Congress and the Shiv Sena, told reporters that the parties have a consensus on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's name for the post of Maharashtra CM.

Shiv Sena senior leader Sanjay Raut had said on Friday that Thackeray had given his consent to lead Maharashtra as the chief minister.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress' joint plea against government formation by the BJP in Maharashtra will be heard by the Supreme Court on Sunday at around 11.

Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Congress' joint plea against government formation by the BJP in Maharashtra will be heard by the Supreme Court on Sunday at around 11.30 am, news agency ANI reported. Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena filed a writ petition on Saturday in the Supreme Court against Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar oath-taking as Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy CM respectively. Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. Supreme Court to hear on tomorrow at 11.30 am the joint plea of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party and Indian National Congress against the decision of Maharashtra Governor inviting Devendra Fadnavis to form the government on November 23. pic.twitter.com/Be4lMgmSNH — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported. Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state. Nawab Malik, NCP after meeting of party MLAs: A resolution was passed unanimously that party does not endorse Ajit Pawar's decision&he has been removed as NCP legislative party leader.Till the election of new leader,Jayant Patil is given responsibilities of the post. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/4PwefMVk71 — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × The move came at a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the government formation had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. Meanwhile, the NCP has passed a unanimous resolution to not endorse Ajit Pawar's decision. Pawar has been removed as NCP legislative party leader and until a new leader is elected, senior leader Jayant Patil is vested with the responsibilities of the post. In its swift move in #Maharashtra, the BJP gave out a definitive message - it didn't want to repeat what happened in Karnataka. Watch WION's @kartikeya_1975 decode the unexpected chain of events in Maharashtra's ongoing political tussle #MaharashtraPolitics pic.twitter.com/YQfpEUE3kE — WION (@WIONews) November 23, 2019 × NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Friday, after concluding discussions with the Congress and the Shiv Sena, told reporters that the parties have a consensus on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's name for the post of Maharashtra CM. Shiv Sena senior leader Sanjay Raut had said on Friday that Thackeray had given his consent to lead Maharashtra as the chief minister. (With inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra: NCP, Shiv Sena, Congress challenge government formation by BJP; SC to hear plea today

Only about 58.2 per cent of the households in the rural and about 80.7 per cent in the urban areas had drinking water facilities within the household premises during July-December 2018, according to the findings of National Sample Survey (NSS).

These findings are part of the report titled 'Drinking Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Housing Conditions in India'.

The National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation conducted the survey on drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and housing condition as a part of 76th round of NSS.

"The major source of drinking water was hand pump for the households in the rural areas and piped water into a dwelling in the urban areas," says the report.

"About 42.9 per cent of the households in the rural areas used hand pump as the principal source of drinking water and about 40.9 per cent of the households in the urban areas used piped water into the dwelling as the principal source of drinking water," adds the report.

According to the report, about 48.6 per cent of the households in the rural and about 57.5 per cent in the urban areas had exclusive access to the principal source of drinking water.

Whereas about 87.6 per cent of the households in the rural and about 90.9 per cent in the urban areas had sufficient drinking water throughout the year from the principal source.

Only 94.5 per cent of the households in the rural and about 97.4 per cent in the urban areas used 'improved source of drinking water'&nbsp;like bottled water, piped water into dwelling, piped water to yard or plot, piped water from neighbour, public tap or standpipe, tube well, hand pump, protected well, public tanker truck, private tanker truck, protected spring and rainwater collection.

About 51.4 per cent of the households in the rural and about 72.0 per cent in the urban areas used an improved source of drinking water, sufficiently available throughout the year located on the premises.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Only about 58.2 per cent of the households in the rural and about 80.7 per cent in the urban areas had drinking water facilities within the household premises during July-December 2018, according to the findings of National Sample Survey (NSS).

Only about 58.2 per cent of the households in the rural and about 80.7 per cent in the urban areas had drinking water facilities within the household premises during July-December 2018, according to the findings of National Sample Survey (NSS). These findings are part of the report titled 'Drinking Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Housing Conditions in India'. The National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation conducted the survey on drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and housing condition as a part of 76th round of NSS. "The major source of drinking water was hand pump for the households in the rural areas and piped water into a dwelling in the urban areas," says the report. "About 42.9 per cent of the households in the rural areas used hand pump as the principal source of drinking water and about 40.9 per cent of the households in the urban areas used piped water into the dwelling as the principal source of drinking water," adds the report. According to the report, about 48.6 per cent of the households in the rural and about 57.5 per cent in the urban areas had exclusive access to the principal source of drinking water. Whereas about 87.6 per cent of the households in the rural and about 90.9 per cent in the urban areas had sufficient drinking water throughout the year from the principal source. Only 94.5 per cent of the households in the rural and about 97.4 per cent in the urban areas used 'improved source of drinking water' like bottled water, piped water into dwelling, piped water to yard or plot, piped water from neighbour, public tap or standpipe, tube well, hand pump, protected well, public tanker truck, private tanker truck, protected spring and rainwater collection. About 51.4 per cent of the households in the rural and about 72.0 per cent in the urban areas used an improved source of drinking water, sufficiently available throughout the year located on the premises.

58.2% of rural, 80.7% of urban households have drinking water facilities within their homes: National Sample Survey

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that his chest measures 65 inches and not 56 inches as people say.

"In 2019 election, I was responsible for preparing election manifesto. I used to talk to the Prime Minister directly about these things and he said -- don`t worry, we will fulfil everything," he said while addressing an election rally.

"Log Kehte Hain 56 Inch Kaa Seena Hai PM Ka/Mai Kehta Hun Kahin Mapne Me Gadbadi Ho Gayee Hogi/Wo 56 Ki Bajai Shayad 65 Inch Ka Hoga (People say PM`s chest measures 56-inch. I say there must have been a mistake in measurement. The PM`s chest probably measures 65 inches instead of 56 inches)," added Singh.

The Defence Minister also lauded the NDA government at the Centre, saying that they abrogated Article 370 and 35 A without delay after it got the majority in Parliament.

"When we got a majority in Parliament, without any delay, we abrogated Article370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Now there will not be two Constitutions in India," he said."There will be no different flag for Jammu and Kashmir. There will be only one Prime Minister in our country," he added.

As the crowd shouted the slogan of Jai Shri Ram, the Defence Minister took the opportunity to weigh in on the Supreme Court verdict on the Ram temple. The Defence Minister said,&nbsp;"We always said that we would construct a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. Now the decks have been cleared for its construction. No power in the world can stop it."

He also reminded that the Central government abrogated the Triple Talaq Bill.

Seeking to portray his party with strong anti-corruption credentials, the Defence Minister claimed that no one can accuse the Jharkhand government or the Central government of corruption.

The Defence Minister claimed that allegations regarding the purchase of Rafale aircraft have been punctured.Praising the Rafale fighter jet, the Defence Minister said,&nbsp;"Now there will be no need to enter Pakistan for killing the terrorist. The Pakistani terrorist camps can be destroyed while being in India itself by Rafale. This is the power India has acquired under the leadership of Modi jee."

The Defence Minister recalled the various welfare schemes of the state and Central government and stressed that the nation needs "strong leadership."

Jharkhand will go to polls in five phases from November 30. The first phase of polling will be held on November 30, the second phase on December 6, the third phase on December 12, the fourth phase on December 16 and the last phase on December 20.

 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that his chest measures 65 inches and not 56 inches as people say. "In 2019 election, I was responsible for preparing election manifesto.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that his chest measures 65 inches and not 56 inches as people say. "In 2019 election, I was responsible for preparing election manifesto. I used to talk to the Prime Minister directly about these things and he said -- don`t worry, we will fulfil everything," he said while addressing an election rally. "Log Kehte Hain 56 Inch Kaa Seena Hai PM Ka/Mai Kehta Hun Kahin Mapne Me Gadbadi Ho Gayee Hogi/Wo 56 Ki Bajai Shayad 65 Inch Ka Hoga (People say PM`s chest measures 56-inch. I say there must have been a mistake in measurement. The PM`s chest probably measures 65 inches instead of 56 inches)," added Singh. The Defence Minister also lauded the NDA government at the Centre, saying that they abrogated Article 370 and 35 A without delay after it got the majority in Parliament. "When we got a majority in Parliament, without any delay, we abrogated Article370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Now there will not be two Constitutions in India," he said."There will be no different flag for Jammu and Kashmir. There will be only one Prime Minister in our country," he added. As the crowd shouted the slogan of Jai Shri Ram, the Defence Minister took the opportunity to weigh in on the Supreme Court verdict on the Ram temple. The Defence Minister said, "We always said that we would construct a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. Now the decks have been cleared for its construction. No power in the world can stop it." He also reminded that the Central government abrogated the Triple Talaq Bill. Seeking to portray his party with strong anti-corruption credentials, the Defence Minister claimed that no one can accuse the Jharkhand government or the Central government of corruption. The Defence Minister claimed that allegations regarding the purchase of Rafale aircraft have been punctured.Praising the Rafale fighter jet, the Defence Minister said, "Now there will be no need to enter Pakistan for killing the terrorist. The Pakistani terrorist camps can be destroyed while being in India itself by Rafale. This is the power India has acquired under the leadership of Modi jee." The Defence Minister recalled the various welfare schemes of the state and Central government and stressed that the nation needs "strong leadership." Jharkhand will go to polls in five phases from November 30. The first phase of polling will be held on November 30, the second phase on December 6, the third phase on December 12, the fourth phase on December 16 and the last phase on December 20.

PM Modi's chest probably measures 65 inches, not 56: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court".

The remark was made by Justice NV Ramana when senior Counsel Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the BJP, questioned the plea filed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena.

"In this court, the sky is the limit, anybody can ask for anything. Any person can ask to make him the Prime Minister," observed Justice NV Ramana.

The Bench consisting Justice Ramana, Ashok Bhushan and Sanjiv Khanna, asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents including Maharashtra Governor's letter inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10 am tomorrow.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi while arguing on behalf of BJP in Supreme Court appealed the court not to pass an order to fix the date for the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly and asserted that Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has committed no "illegality".

"There is no need for the court to pass order today. There was no illegality in the Governor's decision. The court should not pass an order to fix the date of the floor test. The three parties here have no fundamental rights," said Rohatgi."

There are some things that are with the President which are not even open to judicial intervention," he argued.

At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Devendra Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his Deputy Chief Minister.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) late on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to the Renaissance Hotel here on Saturday. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court".

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court". The remark was made by Justice NV Ramana when senior Counsel Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the BJP, questioned the plea filed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena. "In this court, the sky is the limit, anybody can ask for anything. Any person can ask to make him the Prime Minister," observed Justice NV Ramana. The Bench consisting Justice Ramana, Ashok Bhushan and Sanjiv Khanna, asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents including Maharashtra Governor's letter inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10 am tomorrow. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi while arguing on behalf of BJP in Supreme Court appealed the court not to pass an order to fix the date for the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly and asserted that Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has committed no "illegality". "There is no need for the court to pass order today. There was no illegality in the Governor's decision. The court should not pass an order to fix the date of the floor test. The three parties here have no fundamental rights," said Rohatgi." There are some things that are with the President which are not even open to judicial intervention," he argued. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Devendra Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his Deputy Chief Minister. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) late on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to the Renaissance Hotel here on Saturday. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Anybody can ask for anything: SC while hearing plea on Maharashtra government formation

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-faces-calls-to-quit-but-is-defiant-in-crisis-263975">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party.

Netanyahu, a four-term conservative leader, has denied the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-defies-coup-against-him-amid-corruption-charges-263770">charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust</a> and said he will stay in office and defend himself.

His indictment on Thursday came amid unprecedented political disarray in Israel, after elections in April and September in which neither Netanyahu nor his main challenger, centrist Benny Gantz, secured a governing majority in parliament.

In its petition to the Supreme Court, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel said the first-ever criminal charges against a sitting Israeli prime minister constituted "the crossing of a red line and a grave blow to public trust in ruling institutions".

The court should force Netanyahu to resign or temporarily recuse himself from prime ministerial duties, the movement said. It was not immediately clear when the court might rule on the petition.

Gantz's mandate to form a government - after an unsuccessful attempt by Netanyahu to do so - expired on Wednesday. The next day, Israel's president declared a three-week period in which lawmakers can nominate one of their own to try to put together a ruling coalition.

Should that fail, a new election - Israel's third in a year - will be triggered.

Netanyahu's hope of securing that parliamentary nomination was challenged by Gideon Saar, a rival within his Likud party.

Saar said on Saturday Netanyahu would not able to win a third election and called on Likud to hold a leadership ballot.

"There is only one way in which we can save the country, extricate it from the crisis and ensure the Likud's continued rule - and that is if we go to snap primaries today, within these 21 days," Saar told Israel's Channel 12 television. Saar has previously said he would consider running for the top Likud slot.

While voicing appreciation for Netanyahu's record-long term and noting he was innocent until proven otherwise, Saar criticised the premier's attempts to cast his criminal prosecution as a "coup attempt" involving police, prosecutors and the media.

"Not only is it wrong to say that, it's also irresponsible to say that. It’s completely out of touch," Saar said.

The Likud party spokesman dismissed the challenge.

"It is sad to see that while Prime Minister Netanyahu keeps Israel safe on all fronts and works to preserve Likud rule, Gideon Saar, as is his wont, is displaying zero loyalty and maximum subversion," the spokesman said.

Opening the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu made no mention of the political crisis or his legal woes, speaking about Israeli security issues.

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party.

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party. Netanyahu, a four-term conservative leader, has denied the charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust and said he will stay in office and defend himself. His indictment on Thursday came amid unprecedented political disarray in Israel, after elections in April and September in which neither Netanyahu nor his main challenger, centrist Benny Gantz, secured a governing majority in parliament. In its petition to the Supreme Court, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel said the first-ever criminal charges against a sitting Israeli prime minister constituted "the crossing of a red line and a grave blow to public trust in ruling institutions". The court should force Netanyahu to resign or temporarily recuse himself from prime ministerial duties, the movement said. It was not immediately clear when the court might rule on the petition. Gantz's mandate to form a government - after an unsuccessful attempt by Netanyahu to do so - expired on Wednesday. The next day, Israel's president declared a three-week period in which lawmakers can nominate one of their own to try to put together a ruling coalition. Should that fail, a new election - Israel's third in a year - will be triggered. Netanyahu's hope of securing that parliamentary nomination was challenged by Gideon Saar, a rival within his Likud party. Saar said on Saturday Netanyahu would not able to win a third election and called on Likud to hold a leadership ballot. "There is only one way in which we can save the country, extricate it from the crisis and ensure the Likud's continued rule - and that is if we go to snap primaries today, within these 21 days," Saar told Israel's Channel 12 television. Saar has previously said he would consider running for the top Likud slot. While voicing appreciation for Netanyahu's record-long term and noting he was innocent until proven otherwise, Saar criticised the premier's attempts to cast his criminal prosecution as a "coup attempt" involving police, prosecutors and the media. "Not only is it wrong to say that, it's also irresponsible to say that. It’s completely out of touch," Saar said. The Likud party spokesman dismissed the challenge. "It is sad to see that while Prime Minister Netanyahu keeps Israel safe on all fronts and works to preserve Likud rule, Gideon Saar, as is his wont, is displaying zero loyalty and maximum subversion," the spokesman said. Opening the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu made no mention of the political crisis or his legal woes, speaking about Israeli security issues.

Israel's Netanyahu faces court, party challenges after indictment

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet&nbsp;on Sunday, responded to the cryptic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-in-ncp-will-always-be-ajit-pawar-tweets-out-assures-stable-government-in-maharashtra-264231">tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar</a> on government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Pawar ruled out an alliance between the BJP and the NCP, adding that his party has unanimously decided to ally with Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and the Congress.&nbsp;

"There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena and @INCMaharashtra to form the government," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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There is no question of forming an alliance with <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Maharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Maharashtra</a>. 
NCP has unanimously decided to ally with <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivSena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivSena</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/INCMaharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCMaharashtra</a> to form the government. Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people.
— Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks/status/1198578943525187585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The NCP chief called Ajit Pawar’s statement "false and misleading".

"Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," he tweeted out.&nbsp;

This comes shortly after NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tweeted out saying that the BJP and the NCP will provide a stable government to Maharashtra for the next five years.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PawarSpeaks</a> Saheb is our leader. 
 
Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people.
— Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/AjitPawarSpeaks/status/1198565018658377728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Ajit Pawar's tweet read.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet on Sunday, responded to the cryptic tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar on government formation in Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet on Sunday, responded to the cryptic tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar on government formation in Maharashtra. Pawar ruled out an alliance between the BJP and the NCP, adding that his party has unanimously decided to ally with Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and the Congress. "There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena and @INCMaharashtra to form the government," Sharad Pawar's tweet read. There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena & @INCMaharashtra to form the government. Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people. — Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × The NCP chief called Ajit Pawar’s statement "false and misleading". "Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," he tweeted out. This comes shortly after NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tweeted out saying that the BJP and the NCP will provide a stable government to Maharashtra for the next five years. I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and @PawarSpeaks Saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people. — Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × "I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Ajit Pawar's tweet read.

Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading, no question of forming an alliance with BJP: Sharad Pawar

NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday tweeted out saying that he is and shall always be a part of the NCP and that Sharad Pawar is the leader of the party.&nbsp;

Pawar added that the alliance between the BJP and the NCP will give a stable <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-supreme-court-to-pass-appropriate-orders-tomorrow-on-shiv-sena-ncp-congress-plea-264183">government to Maharashtra</a> for the coming five years.

"I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Pawar's tweet read.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PawarSpeaks</a> Saheb is our leader. 
 
Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people.
— Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/AjitPawarSpeaks/status/1198565018658377728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, Pawar took to microblogging site Twitter and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his congratulatory message for government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

"Thank you Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. We will ensure a stable government that will work hard for the welfare of the people of Maharashtra," he had tweeted.&nbsp;

Pawar thanked everyone for their support and urged for "a little patience".

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There is absolutely no need to worry, all is well. However a little patience is required. Thank you very much for all your support.
— Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/AjitPawarSpeaks/status/1198565066297229312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"There is absolutely no need to worry, all is well. However, a little patience is required. Thank you very much for all your support," he tweeted out.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India has said that it would pass 'appropriate orders' on Monday on a joint plea of Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress against the decision of Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, inviting BJP's Devendra Fadnavis to form the government in the state on November 23.

The apex court also issued notices to the Centre, Maharashtra government, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar.

''We request Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents from governor's letter for inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10.30 am tomorrow,'' the top court said in its order. 
&nbsp;

NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday tweeted out saying that he is and shall always be a part of the NCP and that Sharad Pawar is the leader of the party.

NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday tweeted out saying that he is and shall always be a part of the NCP and that Sharad Pawar is the leader of the party. Pawar added that the alliance between the BJP and the NCP will give a stable government to Maharashtra for the coming five years. "I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Pawar's tweet read. I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and @PawarSpeaks Saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people. — Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × Earlier in the day, Pawar took to microblogging site Twitter and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his congratulatory message for government formation in Maharashtra. "Thank you Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. We will ensure a stable government that will work hard for the welfare of the people of Maharashtra," he had tweeted. Pawar thanked everyone for their support and urged for "a little patience". There is absolutely no need to worry, all is well. However a little patience is required. Thank you very much for all your support. — Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × "There is absolutely no need to worry, all is well. However, a little patience is required. Thank you very much for all your support," he tweeted out. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India has said that it would pass 'appropriate orders' on Monday on a joint plea of Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress against the decision of Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, inviting BJP's Devendra Fadnavis to form the government in the state on November 23. The apex court also issued notices to the Centre, Maharashtra government, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar. ''We request Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents from governor's letter for inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10.30 am tomorrow,'' the top court said in its order.

I am in NCP, will always be: Ajit Pawar tweets out, assures stable government in Maharashtra 

A meeting of Congress parliamentary strategy group is scheduled at the residence of party`s interim president Sonia Gandhi here on Monday.

Earlier today, the top court had issued notices to the Maharashtra government, state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his deputy Ajit Pawar and the Centre, and asked for relevant documents and letters of support from MLAs by 10 am on November 25.

At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as his deputy.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

&nbsp;

A meeting of Congress parliamentary strategy group is scheduled at the residence of party`s interim president Sonia Gandhi here on Monday. Earlier today, the top court had issued notices to the Maharashtra government, state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his deputy Ajit Pawar and the Centre, and asked for relevant documents and letters of support from MLAs by 10 am on November 25.

A meeting of Congress parliamentary strategy group is scheduled at the residence of party`s interim president Sonia Gandhi here on Monday. Earlier today, the top court had issued notices to the Maharashtra government, state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his deputy Ajit Pawar and the Centre, and asked for relevant documents and letters of support from MLAs by 10 am on November 25. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as his deputy. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Meeting of Congress parliamentary strategy group to be held of Monday

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years.

According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland".

"NDFB is aligning itself with other undergrounds outfits of the North Eastern Region in furtherance of its objectives to create a separate Bodoland and engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of the Government of India and the Government of Assam and spreading terror and panic among the people," the notification said.

The Home Ministry has also said that the group has indulged in extortion of money from various sections of the society with a view to financing and executing its plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland; embarking on a systematic drive for the recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continuing its terrorist and insurgency activities.

"NDFB creating carnage and ethnic violence resulting in killings, destruction of property of non-Bodos inhabiting the Bodo dominated areas in Assam with a view to spreading panic and insecurity among the non-Bodos, establishing camps and hideouts across the country`s border to carry out its secessionist activities; and obtaining assistance from anti-India forces in other countries to procure arms and other assistance in its struggle for the creation of a separate Bodoland," MHA said.

The Centre has also mentioned the number of incidents carried out by the organisation over the past few years.

"Killing of 19 civilians in incidents of violence since January 2015; and involvement in about sixty-two violent incidents since January 2015 in which fifty-five extremists have been killed, four hundred fifty extremists have been arrested and four hundred forty-four arms have been recovered from them."

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) the Central Government hereby declares the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, along with all its groups, factions and front organisations, as an "unlawful association"," the notification said.

"The Central Government, is of the opinion that it is necessary to declare the NDFB to be an unlawful association with immediate effect, and accordingly, in exercise of powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, hereby directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette," the notification said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years. According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland".

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years. According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland". "NDFB is aligning itself with other undergrounds outfits of the North Eastern Region in furtherance of its objectives to create a separate Bodoland and engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of the Government of India and the Government of Assam and spreading terror and panic among the people," the notification said. The Home Ministry has also said that the group has indulged in extortion of money from various sections of the society with a view to financing and executing its plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland; embarking on a systematic drive for the recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continuing its terrorist and insurgency activities. "NDFB creating carnage and ethnic violence resulting in killings, destruction of property of non-Bodos inhabiting the Bodo dominated areas in Assam with a view to spreading panic and insecurity among the non-Bodos, establishing camps and hideouts across the country`s border to carry out its secessionist activities; and obtaining assistance from anti-India forces in other countries to procure arms and other assistance in its struggle for the creation of a separate Bodoland," MHA said. The Centre has also mentioned the number of incidents carried out by the organisation over the past few years. "Killing of 19 civilians in incidents of violence since January 2015; and involvement in about sixty-two violent incidents since January 2015 in which fifty-five extremists have been killed, four hundred fifty extremists have been arrested and four hundred forty-four arms have been recovered from them." "Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) the Central Government hereby declares the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, along with all its groups, factions and front organisations, as an "unlawful association"," the notification said. "The Central Government, is of the opinion that it is necessary to declare the NDFB to be an unlawful association with immediate effect, and accordingly, in exercise of powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, hereby directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette," the notification said.

Centre extends ban on Assam's Bodo insurgent group NDFB for 5 more years

In a major step towards enhancing jointness among the three services, the special forces of Army, Navy and Air Force have been deployed in the Kashmir valley to carry out combined counter-terrorist operations.

The three special forces, namely, the Army`s Para (Special Forces), Navy`s Marine Commandos (MARCOS) and Indian Air Force`s Garud Special Forces are being deployed in the Kashmir valley under the Defence Ministry`s newly-raised Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD), senior Defence sources told ANI.

The induction of the joint special troops of the three forces has already started as the Army Para (SF) elements have already been inducted into an area considered to be a traditional terror hotbed near Srinagar, they said.

The elements of the MARCOS and the Garuds would also be getting fully inducted into the anti-terrorist operations very soon, they said.

Although small teams of Navy`s MARCOS and IAF`s Garuds have been operating in the Kashmir valley, this is the first time when the three services would be deployed jointly there.

The MARCOS commandos are deployed in and around the Wular lake area while the Garud teams have been operating in the Lolab area and Hajin.

The Air Force Special Forces had a very successful stint in the Kashmir valley as they managed to eliminate six terrorists in one go in Operation Rakh Hajin for which its Corporal JP Nirala was also awarded the Ashok Chakra posthumously.

The aim of joint Special Forces deployment in the Kashmir valley is to give the troops exposure of operating jointly in real operations.

The AFSPD has already carried out two exercises in different locations practising assault on strategic enemy positions and taking back captured areas.

The first exercise of the AFSOD was in the Kutch region codenamed Ex Smelling Field while the second was in Andaman and Nicobar Islands codenamed DANX-2019.

The first head of the Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD) is Major General Ashok Dhingra.

The division has performed well since it came into existence and is still facing issues involved in raising including manpower and equipment shortcomings.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a major step towards enhancing jointness among the three services, the special forces of Army, Navy and Air Force have been deployed in the Kashmir valley to carry out combined counter-terrorist operations.

In a major step towards enhancing jointness among the three services, the special forces of Army, Navy and Air Force have been deployed in the Kashmir valley to carry out combined counter-terrorist operations. The three special forces, namely, the Army`s Para (Special Forces), Navy`s Marine Commandos (MARCOS) and Indian Air Force`s Garud Special Forces are being deployed in the Kashmir valley under the Defence Ministry`s newly-raised Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD), senior Defence sources told ANI. The induction of the joint special troops of the three forces has already started as the Army Para (SF) elements have already been inducted into an area considered to be a traditional terror hotbed near Srinagar, they said. The elements of the MARCOS and the Garuds would also be getting fully inducted into the anti-terrorist operations very soon, they said. Although small teams of Navy`s MARCOS and IAF`s Garuds have been operating in the Kashmir valley, this is the first time when the three services would be deployed jointly there. The MARCOS commandos are deployed in and around the Wular lake area while the Garud teams have been operating in the Lolab area and Hajin. The Air Force Special Forces had a very successful stint in the Kashmir valley as they managed to eliminate six terrorists in one go in Operation Rakh Hajin for which its Corporal JP Nirala was also awarded the Ashok Chakra posthumously. The aim of joint Special Forces deployment in the Kashmir valley is to give the troops exposure of operating jointly in real operations. The AFSPD has already carried out two exercises in different locations practising assault on strategic enemy positions and taking back captured areas. The first exercise of the AFSOD was in the Kutch region codenamed Ex Smelling Field while the second was in Andaman and Nicobar Islands codenamed DANX-2019. The first head of the Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD) is Major General Ashok Dhingra. The division has performed well since it came into existence and is still facing issues involved in raising including manpower and equipment shortcomings.

Army, Navy, Air Force Special Forces deployed jointly to hunt terrorists in Kashmir valley

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