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Apple orchards in the Kashmir valley are abuzz. The world-famous Kashmiri apples are being harvested from orchards of the valley. The crop this year hasn't been that great due to several climatic conditions but farmers are expecting the government's intervention to gain profit.

With the break of dawn, families gather to pick the fruit and pack them for dispatch to domestic markets. Trees are dropping heavily in apple rich districts but the weather has played a spoilsport, yet hopes are high.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Kashmir apple" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="685095ed-cd75-4e00-ab22-8febf959a74c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-08-25%20at%2010.20.43%20PM.jpeg" />

Nazir Ahmad has been an apple farmer for 34 years now. Every day along with his son and other family members, they pack apples. Like other apple farmers, this year doesn't seem to be great as untimely rainfall and other factors have damaged some of his fruit. His son Shahid is now a third-generation apple farmer who hopes for the government's intervention.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kashmir apple" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73a97e8e-3a19-4313-8414-84b6b1e00cdc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-08-25%20at%2010.20.44%20PM.jpeg" />

“We have to put in a lot of hard work, mostly in delicious and American varieties. We start working here from November every year till August and now the rates are very low this year,” says Shahid.&nbsp;

3.4 lakh hectares of land is under fruit cultivation of which 48 percent is used to grow apples. It is the primary source of livelihood for about seven lakh families in Kashmir, according to the J&amp;K State’s Economic Survey 2017.&nbsp;

Authorities are expecting a dip of 20 percent in the overall apple generation this year but hope high-density apple trees prove revolutionary.&nbsp;

“Last year, in Mumbai, our fruit was sold at 90 rupees per kilogram which were transported to Dubai. In the international market, the taste of our apple is appreciated. We have formed a buyer-seller group and we are getting a good demand from multinational companies,” says Ajaz Bhat, Director, Horticulture, Kashmir.&nbsp;

The government of India has also been trying to promote Kashmiri apple in the international markets. Last year, tons of apples were shipped out of Kashmir under the market intervention scheme which was aimed at providing optimum price for apple growers in the Kashmir. Nearly 55 percent of India’s Apple export comes from Kashmir valley which is expected to grow in the coming years.

Apple orchards in the Kashmir valley are abuzz. The world-famous Kashmiri apples are being harvested from orchards of the valley. The crop this year hasn't been that great due to several climatic conditions but farmers are expecting the government's intervention to gain profit.

Apple orchards in the Kashmir valley are abuzz. The world-famous Kashmiri apples are being harvested from orchards of the valley. The crop this year hasn't been that great due to several climatic conditions but farmers are expecting the government's intervention to gain profit. With the break of dawn, families gather to pick the fruit and pack them for dispatch to domestic markets. Trees are dropping heavily in apple rich districts but the weather has played a spoilsport, yet hopes are high. Nazir Ahmad has been an apple farmer for 34 years now. Every day along with his son and other family members, they pack apples. Like other apple farmers, this year doesn't seem to be great as untimely rainfall and other factors have damaged some of his fruit. His son Shahid is now a third-generation apple farmer who hopes for the government's intervention. “We have to put in a lot of hard work, mostly in delicious and American varieties. We start working here from November every year till August and now the rates are very low this year,” says Shahid. 3.4 lakh hectares of land is under fruit cultivation of which 48 percent is used to grow apples. It is the primary source of livelihood for about seven lakh families in Kashmir, according to the J&K State’s Economic Survey 2017. Authorities are expecting a dip of 20 percent in the overall apple generation this year but hope high-density apple trees prove revolutionary. “Last year, in Mumbai, our fruit was sold at 90 rupees per kilogram which were transported to Dubai. In the international market, the taste of our apple is appreciated. We have formed a buyer-seller group and we are getting a good demand from multinational companies,” says Ajaz Bhat, Director, Horticulture, Kashmir. The government of India has also been trying to promote Kashmiri apple in the international markets. Last year, tons of apples were shipped out of Kashmir under the market intervention scheme which was aimed at providing optimum price for apple growers in the Kashmir. Nearly 55 percent of India’s Apple export comes from Kashmir valley which is expected to grow in the coming years.

Orchards dazzle with Apples in J&K: Big boost to rural economy

The Indian Constitution guarantees Freedom of Speech and Expression, but it doesn't allow hurting the sentiment of others.

India is debating how do differentiate between hate speech and free speech which has now has snowballed into a book ban.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The book, Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story&nbsp;was scheduled to release in September, but on August 22, the publisher announced they would no longer publish it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-convict-serving-sentence-in-jail-dies-of-covid-19-310895">1984 anti-Sikh riots convict serving sentence in jail dies of COVID-19</a>

A Twitter post went viral which claimed that Bloomsbury, which was supposed to publish this book, invited BJP leader Kapil Mishra as a guest of honour.&nbsp;

Mishra is the same leader who delivered his hate speech a day before the riots and his invitation has triggered an outrage on social media, where hashtag 'Boycott Bloomsbury' is doing the rounds.&nbsp;

Later, Bloomsbury withdrew the book.&nbsp;

The question is should this or any other book be banned? The answer is no.

Around 50 books are banned in India, includiing Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses, which was banned by the Rajiv Gandhi government in 1988, branding it as hate speech.&nbsp;

In 2003, the eastern Indian state of West Bengal banned Taslima Nasreen's book called Lajja.&nbsp;

The liberals in India, who regularly criticise the establishment for its alleged intolerance and crackdown on free speech just scored a self goal by forcing Bloomsbury into banning a book.&nbsp;

Those protesting this book should know that the book can always find a way under a different publisher or a new platform.&nbsp;

Recently, a book by Perumal Murugan named as Madhorubhagan was banned. Its ban was challenged in 2016 and was declared illegal by the court.

"The choice to read is always with the reader. If you do not like a book, throw it away. There is no compulsion to read a book," the court, in its judgment said.&nbsp;

"Literary tastes may vary, what is right and acceptable to one may not be so to other. Yet, the right to write is unhindered."

Just because a book is on hate speech doesn't mean it should be banned.

What is more cringe-worthy than Hitler's Mein Kamph.

The book is not just filled with hate, but also is repetitive, illogical and a poor piece of literature.

Still, Mein Kamph is one of the best-selling books of all times.&nbsp;

Its sales continue to rise despite Amazon slapping a ban on many of its editions.&nbsp;

To be honest, banning a book is not even the wisest way to keep it away from readers as nothing evokes curiosity than a banned book.&nbsp;

One can criticise hate speech, but forcing a ban is something altogether different.&nbsp;

And under no circumstances, leadership, or reason, should a book be banned. 
&nbsp;

The Indian Constitution guarantees Freedom of Speech and Expression, but it doesn't allow hurting the sentiment of others. India is debating how do differentiate between hate speech and free speech which has now has snowballed into a book ban.

The Indian Constitution guarantees Freedom of Speech and Expression, but it doesn't allow hurting the sentiment of others. India is debating how do differentiate between hate speech and free speech which has now has snowballed into a book ban. Watch | The book, Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story was scheduled to release in September, but on August 22, the publisher announced they would no longer publish it. Also read | 1984 anti-Sikh riots convict serving sentence in jail dies of COVID-19 A Twitter post went viral which claimed that Bloomsbury, which was supposed to publish this book, invited BJP leader Kapil Mishra as a guest of honour. Mishra is the same leader who delivered his hate speech a day before the riots and his invitation has triggered an outrage on social media, where hashtag 'Boycott Bloomsbury' is doing the rounds. Later, Bloomsbury withdrew the book. The question is should this or any other book be banned? The answer is no. Around 50 books are banned in India, includiing Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses, which was banned by the Rajiv Gandhi government in 1988, branding it as hate speech. In 2003, the eastern Indian state of West Bengal banned Taslima Nasreen's book called Lajja. The liberals in India, who regularly criticise the establishment for its alleged intolerance and crackdown on free speech just scored a self goal by forcing Bloomsbury into banning a book. Those protesting this book should know that the book can always find a way under a different publisher or a new platform. Recently, a book by Perumal Murugan named as Madhorubhagan was banned. Its ban was challenged in 2016 and was declared illegal by the court. "The choice to read is always with the reader. If you do not like a book, throw it away. There is no compulsion to read a book," the court, in its judgment said. "Literary tastes may vary, what is right and acceptable to one may not be so to other. Yet, the right to write is unhindered." Just because a book is on hate speech doesn't mean it should be banned. What is more cringe-worthy than Hitler's Mein Kamph. The book is not just filled with hate, but also is repetitive, illogical and a poor piece of literature. Still, Mein Kamph is one of the best-selling books of all times. Its sales continue to rise despite Amazon slapping a ban on many of its editions. To be honest, banning a book is not even the wisest way to keep it away from readers as nothing evokes curiosity than a banned book. One can criticise hate speech, but forcing a ban is something altogether different. And under no circumstances, leadership, or reason, should a book be banned.

'Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story' — Why banning a book cannot be justified

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in its charge sheet in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack case has named Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar, his brothers Abdul Rauf Asghar and Ammar Alvi, slain JeM terrorist Mohammad Umar Farooq, suicide bomber Adil Ahmed Dar and other terrorist commanders operating from Pakistan.

The 13,500-page charge sheet names people who were arrested from Pulwama for providing shelter and shooting the last video of Adil Dar, the suicide bomber who used around 200 kgs of explosives in the vehicle that rammed into the CRPF convoy on February 14 last year killing 40 personnel near Lethpora in South Kashmir.

Besides Azhar, those charge-sheeted include seven terrorists who were killed in various encounters and four absconders, two of whom are still hiding in Jammu and Kashmir — one of them a local and the other a Pakistani national.

Two relatives of Masood Azhar -- Abdula Rauf and Ammar Alvi -- have been named in the charge sheet as the main conspirators behind the case. The dead include a nephew of JeM terrorist Mohammed Umar Farooq who had entered India through natural caves at the international border in Sambha in late 2018.

<img alt="NIA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6870139e-c3f2-4c72-a43c-47d743bb2752" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-08-25%20at%205.47.50%20PM%20%281%29.jpeg" />

&nbsp;
In February 2019, suicide bomber Adil Dar, a local, rammed his explosive-laden car into CRPF bus at Lethpora Pulwama leaving 40 personnel of the force dead. The attack was followed by Balakote airstrikes. &nbsp;A day later Pakistan retaliated and it triggered a brief dogfight. The Pulwama attack had brought India and Pakistan at the brink of war.


<meta name="uuid" content="uuid3qx87zmQZNJA" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Names and nationalities of the terrorists mentioned in the charge sheet&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
i) Masood Azhar Alvi, 52 years, Pakistani national

ii) Rouf Asgar Alvi, 47 years, Pakistani national

iii) Ammar Alvi, 46 years, Pakistani national

iv) Shakir Bashir, 24 Years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&amp;K.

v) Insha Jan, 22 Years r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&amp;K

vi) Peer Tariq Ahmed Shah, 53 Years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&amp;K

vii) Waiz-ul-Islam, 20 Years, r/o Srinagar, J&amp;K

viii) Mohd Abbas Rather, 31 Years, r/o Kakapura, Pulwama, J&amp;K.

ix) Bilal Ahmed Kuchhey, 28 years, r/o Hajibal, Lalhar, Pulwama, J&amp;K

x) Mohd Iqbal Rather, 25 years, r/o, Charar-e-Shareef, Budgam, J&amp;K.

xi) Mohd Ismail, 25 years, r/o Pakistani national

xii) Sameer Ahmad Dar, 22 years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, Kashmir

xiii) Ashaq Ahmed Nengroo, 33 years, r/o Rajpura, Pulwama

xiv) Adil Ahmed Dar, 21 years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, Kashmir (Killed)

xv) Muhammad Umar Farooq, 24 years, r/o Pakistani national (Killed)

xvi) Mohd Kamran Ali, 25 years, &nbsp;r/o Pakistani national (Killed)

xvii) Sajjad Ahmed Bhat, 19 years, r/o Bijbehera, Anantnag &nbsp;(Killed)

xviii) Mudasir Ahmad Khan, 24 years, r/o Awantipura, Pulwama (Killed)

xix) Qari Yasir, r/o Pakistani national (Killed)

 
Pakistani national listed by NIA in Pulwama Chargesheet

Still Alive:

Masood Azhar Alvi, 52 years 
Rouf Asgar Alvi, 47 years 
Ammar Alvi, 46 years 
Mohd Ismail, 25 years

Killed:

Muhammad Umar Farooq, 24 years 
Mohd Kamran Ali, 25 years 
Qari Yasir

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in its charge sheet in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack case has named Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar, his brothers Abdul Rauf Asghar and Ammar Alvi, slain JeM terrorist Mohammad Umar Farooq, suicide bomber Adil Ahmed Dar and other terrorist commanders operating from Pakistan.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in its charge sheet in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack case has named Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar, his brothers Abdul Rauf Asghar and Ammar Alvi, slain JeM terrorist Mohammad Umar Farooq, suicide bomber Adil Ahmed Dar and other terrorist commanders operating from Pakistan. The 13,500-page charge sheet names people who were arrested from Pulwama for providing shelter and shooting the last video of Adil Dar, the suicide bomber who used around 200 kgs of explosives in the vehicle that rammed into the CRPF convoy on February 14 last year killing 40 personnel near Lethpora in South Kashmir. Besides Azhar, those charge-sheeted include seven terrorists who were killed in various encounters and four absconders, two of whom are still hiding in Jammu and Kashmir — one of them a local and the other a Pakistani national. Two relatives of Masood Azhar -- Abdula Rauf and Ammar Alvi -- have been named in the charge sheet as the main conspirators behind the case. The dead include a nephew of JeM terrorist Mohammed Umar Farooq who had entered India through natural caves at the international border in Sambha in late 2018. In February 2019, suicide bomber Adil Dar, a local, rammed his explosive-laden car into CRPF bus at Lethpora Pulwama leaving 40 personnel of the force dead. The attack was followed by Balakote airstrikes. A day later Pakistan retaliated and it triggered a brief dogfight. The Pulwama attack had brought India and Pakistan at the brink of war. Names and nationalities of the terrorists mentioned in the charge sheet i) Masood Azhar Alvi, 52 years, Pakistani national ii) Rouf Asgar Alvi, 47 years, Pakistani national iii) Ammar Alvi, 46 years, Pakistani national iv) Shakir Bashir, 24 Years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&K. v) Insha Jan, 22 Years r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&K vi) Peer Tariq Ahmed Shah, 53 Years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, J&K vii) Waiz-ul-Islam, 20 Years, r/o Srinagar, J&K viii) Mohd Abbas Rather, 31 Years, r/o Kakapura, Pulwama, J&K. ix) Bilal Ahmed Kuchhey, 28 years, r/o Hajibal, Lalhar, Pulwama, J&K x) Mohd Iqbal Rather, 25 years, r/o, Charar-e-Shareef, Budgam, J&K. xi) Mohd Ismail, 25 years, r/o Pakistani national xii) Sameer Ahmad Dar, 22 years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, Kashmir xiii) Ashaq Ahmed Nengroo, 33 years, r/o Rajpura, Pulwama xiv) Adil Ahmed Dar, 21 years, r/o Kakapora, Pulwama, Kashmir (Killed) xv) Muhammad Umar Farooq, 24 years, r/o Pakistani national (Killed) xvi) Mohd Kamran Ali, 25 years, r/o Pakistani national (Killed) xvii) Sajjad Ahmed Bhat, 19 years, r/o Bijbehera, Anantnag (Killed) xviii) Mudasir Ahmad Khan, 24 years, r/o Awantipura, Pulwama (Killed) xix) Qari Yasir, r/o Pakistani national (Killed) Pakistani national listed by NIA in Pulwama Chargesheet Still Alive: Masood Azhar Alvi, 52 years Rouf Asgar Alvi, 47 years Ammar Alvi, 46 years Mohd Ismail, 25 years Killed: Muhammad Umar Farooq, 24 years Mohd Kamran Ali, 25 years Qari Yasir

NIA files chargesheet in Pulwama attack: Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, his two brothers among 19 named

China on Sunday has launched the first of four most advanced warships it is building for Pakistan amid deepening military and strategic ties with Islamabad.

The Type 054A/P, a guided missile frigate, is the largest combat ship China has sold to a foreign navy.

China is building these four most sophisticated naval platforms at a Chinese shipyard in Shanghai. 
 
According to reports, each ship is worth 350 million dollars.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-army-a-surrogate-fighting-force-for-china-322853/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The cash strapped Pakistan is not able to pay for it but despite Pakistan's poor credit ratings China is more than willing to supply weapons to the Pakistani defence forces.

The missile frigate called the backbone of the Chinese naval forces. China is arming Pakistan with the same weapons that it uses. Reports say the frigate comes equipped with modern weapons and sensors.

It can conduct anti-ship, anti-submarine and air-defence operations.it can multiply the combat capabilities of the Pakistani naval fleet.

This frigate is roughly the same size as the Indian navy's existing Talwar frigates. The ones that India bought from Russia.

China is building a surrogate force on India's western border. A force armed with Chinese weapons and ready to do China's bidding. Pakistan is part of China’s belt and road initiative.

With its mounting debt, it is a vassal state of China and now, a vital component in China's string of pearls. 
 
China's string of pearls is a network of ports and military assets to surround India from all sides. Stretching from Djibouti in Africa — to Myanmar in the east, China has been building assets. China denies claims that it wants to militarize these ports but at least — two ports on this map, are already militarised.

Djibouti is China’s first overseas military base. It has an estimated area of nearly 250 thousand square feet. The base is capable of hosting 10 thousand troops. Once china announced the Djibouti base — its intention was quite clear. Beijing wants a blue water navy — that can operate outside the immediate neighbourhood of China.

And now — it seems like the Gwadar base in Pakistan is going the Djibouti way. A satellite has caught what looks like a high-security compound at the Gwadar port.

Now, there are clear takeaways for India, one — China and Pakistan are stepping up their military ties. Two, this is an attempt to challenge India in every military theatre.

China on Sunday has launched the first of four most advanced warships it is building for Pakistan amid deepening military and strategic ties with Islamabad. The Type 054A/P, a guided missile frigate, is the largest combat ship China has sold to a foreign navy.

China on Sunday has launched the first of four most advanced warships it is building for Pakistan amid deepening military and strategic ties with Islamabad. The Type 054A/P, a guided missile frigate, is the largest combat ship China has sold to a foreign navy. China is building these four most sophisticated naval platforms at a Chinese shipyard in Shanghai. According to reports, each ship is worth 350 million dollars. The cash strapped Pakistan is not able to pay for it but despite Pakistan's poor credit ratings China is more than willing to supply weapons to the Pakistani defence forces. The missile frigate called the backbone of the Chinese naval forces. China is arming Pakistan with the same weapons that it uses. Reports say the frigate comes equipped with modern weapons and sensors. It can conduct anti-ship, anti-submarine and air-defence operations.it can multiply the combat capabilities of the Pakistani naval fleet. This frigate is roughly the same size as the Indian navy's existing Talwar frigates. The ones that India bought from Russia. China is building a surrogate force on India's western border. A force armed with Chinese weapons and ready to do China's bidding. Pakistan is part of China’s belt and road initiative. With its mounting debt, it is a vassal state of China and now, a vital component in China's string of pearls. China's string of pearls is a network of ports and military assets to surround India from all sides. Stretching from Djibouti in Africa — to Myanmar in the east, China has been building assets. China denies claims that it wants to militarize these ports but at least — two ports on this map, are already militarised. Djibouti is China’s first overseas military base. It has an estimated area of nearly 250 thousand square feet. The base is capable of hosting 10 thousand troops. Once china announced the Djibouti base — its intention was quite clear. Beijing wants a blue water navy — that can operate outside the immediate neighbourhood of China. And now — it seems like the Gwadar base in Pakistan is going the Djibouti way. A satellite has caught what looks like a high-security compound at the Gwadar port. Now, there are clear takeaways for India, one — China and Pakistan are stepping up their military ties. Two, this is an attempt to challenge India in every military theatre.

China building a surrogate force on India's western border

Climate activist Greta Thunberg to Twitter to join the movement to "postpone JEE NEET" saying conducting exams during coronavirus pandemic and extreme floods were "deeply unfair" on students.

She said: "It’s deeply unfair that students of India are asked to sit national exams during the Covid-19 pandemic and while millions have also been impacted by the extreme floods. I stand with their call to #PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s deeply unfair that students of India are asked to sit national exams during the Covid-19 pandemic and while millions have also been impacted by the extreme floods. I stand with their call to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1298153192526696449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Greta Thunberg is a global icon and has been vocal against climate change. She followed by 4.1 million users on Twitter.&nbsp;

Hashtags like 'PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID' have been trending on Twitter for quite some&nbsp;time.&nbsp;

Her tweet received a mixed reaction by the netizens.

The JEE, NEET exams were first cancelled in May when the nationwide lockdown was in force and the total coronavirus cases were fewer.

India has been recording the world's highest daily spike in coronavirus figures since August 8. India in the last 24 hours reported 60,975 COVID-19 cases, taking its overall coronavirus tally 31,67,324, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

The total cases include 7,04,348 active cases and 24,04,585 patients cured/discharged/migrated.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg to Twitter to join the movement to "postpone JEE NEET" saying conducting exams during coronavirus pandemic and extreme floods were "deeply unfair" on students.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg to Twitter to join the movement to "postpone JEE NEET" saying conducting exams during coronavirus pandemic and extreme floods were "deeply unfair" on students. She said: "It’s deeply unfair that students of India are asked to sit national exams during the Covid-19 pandemic and while millions have also been impacted by the extreme floods. I stand with their call to #PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID". It’s deeply unfair that students of India are asked to sit national exams during the Covid-19 pandemic and while millions have also been impacted by the extreme floods. I stand with their call to #PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) August 25, 2020 × Greta Thunberg is a global icon and has been vocal against climate change. She followed by 4.1 million users on Twitter. Hashtags like 'PostponeJEE_NEETinCOVID' have been trending on Twitter for quite some time. Her tweet received a mixed reaction by the netizens. The JEE, NEET exams were first cancelled in May when the nationwide lockdown was in force and the total coronavirus cases were fewer. India has been recording the world's highest daily spike in coronavirus figures since August 8. India in the last 24 hours reported 60,975 COVID-19 cases, taking its overall coronavirus tally 31,67,324, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday. The total cases include 7,04,348 active cases and 24,04,585 patients cured/discharged/migrated.

'Deeply unfair': Greta Thunberg tweets in favour of postponing JEE, NEET

According to a UK newspaper, India is phasing out equipment of Chinese tech giant Huawei from its telecom network as the Indian government cracks down on Chinese products in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-huawei-chinas-role-in-uk-nuclear-projects-is-under-scanner-322068">Also Read:&nbsp;After Huawei, China's role in UK nuclear projects is under scanner</a>

The Financial Times report in its report said that the Indian government hasn't issued any formal "written ban" on Chinese equipment suppliers but quoted unnamed telecoms industry executives and government officials to state that local telecoms service providers have been told to avoid Chinese equipment.

Not just Huawei, Chinese telecom company ZTE has also been added to the list, the report said. The local service providers have reportedly been asked to avoid the Chinese 5G networks as well.

The Indian government had earlier banned TikTok and 59 other Chinese apps citing national security issues after the clash at Galwan Valley between Indian troops and the Chinese Army on June 15. The clash had led to the death of 20&nbsp;Indian soldiers, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry hasrefused to divulge details.

The Financial Times said the government was unlikely to&nbsp;"formally" ban Huawei or other Chinese equipment company&nbsp;as it&nbsp;may lead to a tough response from the Chinese government, however, it would look to not give pubic contracts including "critical" infrastructure projects to Chinese companies.

Britain had earlier ordered phased removal of Huawei from its 5G network by 2027 and had banned the purchase of 5G equipment from December 31.&nbsp;

Last week, the Trump administration expanded its curbs on Huawei banning suppliers from selling chips made using US technology to the firm without a special licence,&nbsp;the move was criticised by the Chinese government which said it was a "deliberate smear and suppression of Huawei".

The US had blacklisted the Chinese tech giant over a year ago over security concerns.

According to a UK newspaper, India is phasing out equipment of Chinese tech giant Huawei from its telecom network as the Indian government cracks down on Chinese products in the country.

According to a UK newspaper, India is phasing out equipment of Chinese tech giant Huawei from its telecom network as the Indian government cracks down on Chinese products in the country. Also Read: After Huawei, China's role in UK nuclear projects is under scanner The Financial Times report in its report said that the Indian government hasn't issued any formal "written ban" on Chinese equipment suppliers but quoted unnamed telecoms industry executives and government officials to state that local telecoms service providers have been told to avoid Chinese equipment. Not just Huawei, Chinese telecom company ZTE has also been added to the list, the report said. The local service providers have reportedly been asked to avoid the Chinese 5G networks as well. The Indian government had earlier banned TikTok and 59 other Chinese apps citing national security issues after the clash at Galwan Valley between Indian troops and the Chinese Army on June 15. The clash had led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but China's foreign ministry hasrefused to divulge details. The Financial Times said the government was unlikely to "formally" ban Huawei or other Chinese equipment company as it may lead to a tough response from the Chinese government, however, it would look to not give pubic contracts including "critical" infrastructure projects to Chinese companies. Britain had earlier ordered phased removal of Huawei from its 5G network by 2027 and had banned the purchase of 5G equipment from December 31. Last week, the Trump administration expanded its curbs on Huawei banning suppliers from selling chips made using US technology to the firm without a special licence, the move was criticised by the Chinese government which said it was a "deliberate smear and suppression of Huawei". The US had blacklisted the Chinese tech giant over a year ago over security concerns.

India phasing out Huawei equipment, no 'written' ban: Report

Indian government consumption will support current economic demand while private consumption is likely to lead a recovery that takes hold after the coronavirus pandemic eases, the central bank said on Tuesday.

June-quarter GDP data set to be released at the end of August is expected to show a contraction of 20 per cent, according to a Reuters poll.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-public-sector-banks-face-fresh-capital-shortages-will-need-rs-21-lakh-crore-moodys-322124" hreflang="en">Indian public sector banks face fresh capital shortages, will need Rs 2.1 lakh crore: Moody's</a>

"An assessment of aggregate demand during the year so far suggests that the shock to consumption is severe, and it will take quite some time to mend and regain the pre-COVID-19 momentum," the Reserve Bank of India said in its annual report.

"Going forward, government consumption is expected to continue pandemic-proofing of demand."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-urges-automakers-to-cut-royalties-to-foreign-parent-companies-report-321467" hreflang="en">India urges automakers to cut royalties to foreign parent companies: Report</a>

Private consumption will come back gradually with non-discretionary spending leading the way, until a durable increase in disposable incomes enables discretionary spending to catch up, the bank added.

"The upticks that became visible in May and June after the lockdown was eased in several parts of the country appear to have lost strength in July and August," the bank said.

This weakening was mainly due to reimposition or tougher imposition of lockdowns, suggesting that contraction in economic activity was likely to be prolonged into the second quarter, it added.

Key downside risks to growth are wider pandemic spread, a deviation of seasonal monsoon rains from the predicted normal volume and global financial market volatility, the bank said.

It called for the banking sector to be freed of a risk aversion that is impeding the flow of credit to productive sectors and undermining banks' role in the economy.

Despite a reduction in bad loans in March 2020, the banking system's resilience will be tested by the economic fallout of the pandemic, since measures to alleviate it had masked the consequent build-up of stress in the system, the bank said.

"Against this backdrop, a recapitalisation plan for public and private sector banks assumes critical importance," it added.

In a separate report, the RBI had warned that banks' bad loans could nearly double by the end of this fiscal year, while the capital adequacy ratio could fall to 11.8 per cent&nbsp;in a severely stressed situation.

The RBI's balance sheet increased 30.02 per cent&nbsp;by June 30, it added.

Indian government consumption will support current economic demand while private consumption is likely to lead a recovery that takes hold after the coronavirus pandemic eases, the central bank said on Tuesday.

Indian government consumption will support current economic demand while private consumption is likely to lead a recovery that takes hold after the coronavirus pandemic eases, the central bank said on Tuesday. June-quarter GDP data set to be released at the end of August is expected to show a contraction of 20 per cent, according to a Reuters poll. Also read: Indian public sector banks face fresh capital shortages, will need Rs 2.1 lakh crore: Moody's "An assessment of aggregate demand during the year so far suggests that the shock to consumption is severe, and it will take quite some time to mend and regain the pre-COVID-19 momentum," the Reserve Bank of India said in its annual report. "Going forward, government consumption is expected to continue pandemic-proofing of demand." Also read: India urges automakers to cut royalties to foreign parent companies: Report Private consumption will come back gradually with non-discretionary spending leading the way, until a durable increase in disposable incomes enables discretionary spending to catch up, the bank added. "The upticks that became visible in May and June after the lockdown was eased in several parts of the country appear to have lost strength in July and August," the bank said. This weakening was mainly due to reimposition or tougher imposition of lockdowns, suggesting that contraction in economic activity was likely to be prolonged into the second quarter, it added. Key downside risks to growth are wider pandemic spread, a deviation of seasonal monsoon rains from the predicted normal volume and global financial market volatility, the bank said. It called for the banking sector to be freed of a risk aversion that is impeding the flow of credit to productive sectors and undermining banks' role in the economy. Despite a reduction in bad loans in March 2020, the banking system's resilience will be tested by the economic fallout of the pandemic, since measures to alleviate it had masked the consequent build-up of stress in the system, the bank said. "Against this backdrop, a recapitalisation plan for public and private sector banks assumes critical importance," it added. In a separate report, the RBI had warned that banks' bad loans could nearly double by the end of this fiscal year, while the capital adequacy ratio could fall to 11.8 per cent in a severely stressed situation. The RBI's balance sheet increased 30.02 per cent by June 30, it added.

Indian government consumption key to demand growth in economy, says RBI

India in the last 24 hours reported 60,975 COVID-19 cases, taking its overall coronavirus tally 31,67,324, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

The total cases include 7,04,348 active cases and 24,04,585 patients cured/discharged/migrated.

India in the last 24 hours has reported 848 deaths in the last 24 hours due to COVID-19 taking the overall toll to 58,390 deaths. As per the data provided by the ministry, Maharashtra, the worst affected state from the infection, has a total of 1,68,443 active cases and 22,465 fatalities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-conducts-over-36-crore-covid-19-tests-tests-per-million-tpm-rises-health-ministry-322849" hreflang="en">India conducts over 3.6 crore COVID-19 tests, Tests Per Million rises</a>

While Tamil Nadu has a total of 53,282 active cases and 6,614 fatalities in the state due to the coronavirus.&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh has a total of 89,516 active cases and 3,368 deaths.

Karnataka has a total of 81,230 active cases and 4,810 deaths. Delhi has reported 11,626 active cases and 4,313 deaths due to COVID-19.

The total number of samples tested up to 24th August is 3,68,27,520 including 9,25,383 samples that were tested yesterday, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) update on Tuesday.

India in the last 24 hours reported 60,975 COVID-19 cases, taking its overall coronavirus tally 31,67,324, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

India in the last 24 hours reported 60,975 COVID-19 cases, taking its overall coronavirus tally 31,67,324, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday. The total cases include 7,04,348 active cases and 24,04,585 patients cured/discharged/migrated. India in the last 24 hours has reported 848 deaths in the last 24 hours due to COVID-19 taking the overall toll to 58,390 deaths. As per the data provided by the ministry, Maharashtra, the worst affected state from the infection, has a total of 1,68,443 active cases and 22,465 fatalities. Also read: India conducts over 3.6 crore COVID-19 tests, Tests Per Million rises While Tamil Nadu has a total of 53,282 active cases and 6,614 fatalities in the state due to the coronavirus. Andhra Pradesh has a total of 89,516 active cases and 3,368 deaths. Karnataka has a total of 81,230 active cases and 4,810 deaths. Delhi has reported 11,626 active cases and 4,313 deaths due to COVID-19. The total number of samples tested up to 24th August is 3,68,27,520 including 9,25,383 samples that were tested yesterday, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) update on Tuesday.

With spike of 60,975 cases, India's COVID-19 tally reaches 31,67,324

5 storey building collapses in Raigad, Maharashtra. 3 NDRF teams deployed for the rescue operation. 2 people are dead, 15 injured & 60 are rescued till now.

Maharashtra: 2 dead in Raigad building collapse, 30 still feared trapped

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday expressed his distress over the Raigad building collapse tragedy in Maharashtra.

"The news of the building collapse at Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra and loss of lives is distressing. My thoughts and prayers are with the accident victims," tweeted the President of India's official handle.

President Kovind wished a speedy recovery to the injured. "I wish speedy recovery of the injured. Local authorities and NDRF teams are coordinating rescue and relief efforts," he said.

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The news of the building collapse at Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra and loss of lives is distressing. My thoughts and prayers are with the accident victims. I wish speedy recovery of the injured. Local authorities and NDRF teams are coordinating rescue and relief efforts.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1298123619445272576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the building collapse in a residential area of Mahad in Maharashtra's Raigad district and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-75-feared-trapped-as-five-story-building-collapses-in-western-indian-state-322835" hreflang="en">75 feared trapped as 5-story building collapses in Western Indian state</a>

"Saddened by the building collapse in Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their dear ones. I pray the injured recover soon. Local authorities and NDRF teams are at the site of the tragedy, providing all possible assistance," Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) tweeted.

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Saddened by the building collapse in Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their dear ones. I pray the injured recover soon. Local authorities and NDRF teams are at the site of the tragedy, providing all possible assistance: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1298116244206313472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Two persons have died and 18 still feared trapped under the debris after a five-storey building collapsed in a residential area of Mahad in Raigad district, an official said on Tuesday. The incident took place on Monday evening in the Kajalpura area of the town.

The local administration, including the police and fire brigade, is currently carrying out search and rescue operations.Maharashtra Ministers Aditi Tatkare and Eknath Shinde visited the spot to review the rescue operations last evening.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed the Director-General (DG), NDRF to provide all possible assistance for rescue operations at the incident site.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday expressed his distress over the Raigad building collapse tragedy in Maharashtra. "The news of the building collapse at Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra and loss of lives is distressing.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday expressed his distress over the Raigad building collapse tragedy in Maharashtra. "The news of the building collapse at Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra and loss of lives is distressing. My thoughts and prayers are with the accident victims," tweeted the President of India's official handle. President Kovind wished a speedy recovery to the injured. "I wish speedy recovery of the injured. Local authorities and NDRF teams are coordinating rescue and relief efforts," he said. The news of the building collapse at Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra and loss of lives is distressing. My thoughts and prayers are with the accident victims. I wish speedy recovery of the injured. Local authorities and NDRF teams are coordinating rescue and relief efforts. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 25, 2020 × Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the building collapse in a residential area of Mahad in Maharashtra's Raigad district and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. Also read: 75 feared trapped as 5-story building collapses in Western Indian state "Saddened by the building collapse in Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their dear ones. I pray the injured recover soon. Local authorities and NDRF teams are at the site of the tragedy, providing all possible assistance," Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) tweeted. Saddened by the building collapse in Mahad, Raigad in Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their dear ones. I pray the injured recover soon. Local authorities and NDRF teams are at the site of the tragedy, providing all possible assistance: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 25, 2020 × Two persons have died and 18 still feared trapped under the debris after a five-storey building collapsed in a residential area of Mahad in Raigad district, an official said on Tuesday. The incident took place on Monday evening in the Kajalpura area of the town. The local administration, including the police and fire brigade, is currently carrying out search and rescue operations.Maharashtra Ministers Aditi Tatkare and Eknath Shinde visited the spot to review the rescue operations last evening. Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed the Director-General (DG), NDRF to provide all possible assistance for rescue operations at the incident site.

President Kovind expresses distress over Raigad building collapse

India's Chief of Defence Staff(CDS) Bipin Rawat said that the country's "military option to deal with transgression by the Chinese Army are on, but only if talks fail" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-rafale-fighter-jets-will-be-stationed-just-200-km-from-pakistan-china-border-at-ambala-air-base-316311">In Pics:&nbsp;Why Rafale fighter jets will be stationed just 200 km from Pakistan, China border</a>

"The military option to deal with the transgressions by the Chinese in Ladakh are on but it will be exercised only if talks at the military and diplomatic level fail," the CDS chief said, adding,"transgressions along the LAC occur due to differing perceptions about its alignment."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-must-restore-status-quo-ante-in-eastern-ladakh-to-resolve-border-standoff-sources-322262">Also Read:&nbsp;China must restore status quo ante in eastern Ladakh to resolve border standoff: Sources</a>

Rawat informed that Defence minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other officials corcerned with national security are reviewing the situation along with those concerned about national security.

The CDS chief asserted that India has vast frontline along the northern and western border along the Indian Ocean Region while dismissing concerns that there was a lack of coordination between intelligence agencies.

On Saturday, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met the NSA and the three service chiefs to review the situation along the LAC.

Tensions between India and China reached boiling point on June 15 after the clash at Galwan Valley between the Indian Army and PLA troops leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although there were casualties on the Chinese side as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge details.

After the clash, both sides have engaged in de-escalation talks aimed at disengagement of troops with talks between military officials, however, reports say the Chinese troops have been slow to move out of strategic areas in the upper Himalayan region.

 
&nbsp;

India's Chief of Defence Staff(CDS) Bipin Rawat said that the country's "military option to deal with transgression by the Chinese Army are on, but only if talks fail" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India's Chief of Defence Staff(CDS) Bipin Rawat said that the country's "military option to deal with transgression by the Chinese Army are on, but only if talks fail" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). In Pics: Why Rafale fighter jets will be stationed just 200 km from Pakistan, China border "The military option to deal with the transgressions by the Chinese in Ladakh are on but it will be exercised only if talks at the military and diplomatic level fail," the CDS chief said, adding,"transgressions along the LAC occur due to differing perceptions about its alignment." Also Read: China must restore status quo ante in eastern Ladakh to resolve border standoff: Sources Rawat informed that Defence minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other officials corcerned with national security are reviewing the situation along with those concerned about national security. The CDS chief asserted that India has vast frontline along the northern and western border along the Indian Ocean Region while dismissing concerns that there was a lack of coordination between intelligence agencies. On Saturday, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met the NSA and the three service chiefs to review the situation along the LAC. Tensions between India and China reached boiling point on June 15 after the clash at Galwan Valley between the Indian Army and PLA troops leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although there were casualties on the Chinese side as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge details. After the clash, both sides have engaged in de-escalation talks aimed at disengagement of troops with talks between military officials, however, reports say the Chinese troops have been slow to move out of strategic areas in the upper Himalayan region.

India-China standoff: Military option open to deal with China in Ladakh if talks fail: Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.

Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters".

Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year.

That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said.

After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief.

"She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief.

"In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI.

She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice".

"Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader.

On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened.

The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party.

At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on.

Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake."

She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm.

"But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said.

Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also.

Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest. Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters". Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year. That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said. After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief. "She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief. "In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI. She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice". "Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader. On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened. The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party. At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on. Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake." She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm. "But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said. Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also. Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."

Letter not dissent, but good suggestions given in Congress's interests: Former Punjab CM

In the fight against COVID-19, India has conducted nearly 3.6 crore tests to diagnose coronavirus disease, the nation has also seen a rise in the tests per million per day as advised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) i.e. TPM has currently increased to 26,016, the Health Ministry said on Monday.

WHO in its Guidance Note on "Public Health Criteria to Adjust Public Health and Social Measures in the Context of COVID-19" stated that a country needs 140 tests per day per million population as a measure for comprehensive surveillance for suspected COVID-19 cases.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the nation has tested at least 3,59,02,137 so far since the beginning of the virus pandemic. With 6,09,917 tests conducted in the last 24 hours, India is on its resolved drive to increase its testing capacity.

"Easy access to testing through expanded diagnostic lab network across the country has given a substantial boost to the present numbers. As a result of these focussed actions, the Tests Per Million (TPM) have seen a sharp increase to 26,016. The TPM continues to maintain the constant upward trend," stated the health ministry.

A prominent determinant of the evolving testing strategy is the steadily widening diagnostic lab network in the country.This has significantly grown to 1,520 labs till date, including 984 labs in the government sector and 536 private labs. These include RT PCR based testing labs: 785, TrueNat based testing labs: 617 and CBNAAT based testing labs: 118.

In the fight against COVID-19, India has conducted nearly 3.6 crore tests to diagnose coronavirus disease, the nation has also seen a rise in the tests per million per day as advised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) i.

In the fight against COVID-19, India has conducted nearly 3.6 crore tests to diagnose coronavirus disease, the nation has also seen a rise in the tests per million per day as advised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) i.e. TPM has currently increased to 26,016, the Health Ministry said on Monday. WHO in its Guidance Note on "Public Health Criteria to Adjust Public Health and Social Measures in the Context of COVID-19" stated that a country needs 140 tests per day per million population as a measure for comprehensive surveillance for suspected COVID-19 cases. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the nation has tested at least 3,59,02,137 so far since the beginning of the virus pandemic. With 6,09,917 tests conducted in the last 24 hours, India is on its resolved drive to increase its testing capacity. "Easy access to testing through expanded diagnostic lab network across the country has given a substantial boost to the present numbers. As a result of these focussed actions, the Tests Per Million (TPM) have seen a sharp increase to 26,016. The TPM continues to maintain the constant upward trend," stated the health ministry. A prominent determinant of the evolving testing strategy is the steadily widening diagnostic lab network in the country.This has significantly grown to 1,520 labs till date, including 984 labs in the government sector and 536 private labs. These include RT PCR based testing labs: 785, TrueNat based testing labs: 617 and CBNAAT based testing labs: 118.

India conducts over 3.6 crore COVID-19 tests, Tests Per Million (TPM) rises: Health Ministry

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday said the upcoming assembly bypolls in Madhya Pradesh are crucial as their outcome will decide the future of the state, and sought to portray them as a "bada-chota bhai" versus "trimurti" battle for leadership.

He said the bypolls will decide whether people want the leadership of "bada-chota bhai" (an apparent reference to Congress veterans Kamal Nath and Digvijaya Singh) or that of trimurti (triumvirate, a reference to chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP leader Narendra Singh Tomar and Scindia).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-to-remain-interim-congress-chief-for-a-few-more-months-sources-322785">Sonia Gandhi to remain interim Congress chief for a few more months: Sources</a>

Bypolls are due on more than two dozen seats in Madhya Pradesh but their schedule is yet to be announced.

The former Union minister, who quit the Congress in March and later joined the BJP, was speaking on the last day of BJP membership drive in his bastion Gwalior.

Referring to development of the region, Scindia said Chouhan sanctioned schemes worth Rs 110 crore for development of Gohad (a constituency in Bhind district), but Kamal Nath, during his tenure as chief minister, always complained about shortage of funds."

From where money has come now? Scindia asked.

"After 15 years, when the Congress government was formed in the state (in 2018), out of the 34 seats in the Gwalior-Chambal region, 26 were won by the Congress. The contribution of this region (in Congress victory) was immense," he said.

But in 15 months (of the Congress rule), everyone has watched what has happened. We have no greed for chair or power, but it was a question of justice, pride and development," Scindia said, apparently referring to his decision to quit the Congress.

"The coming bypolls will decide the future of Madhya Pradesh. Whether people want 'bada-chota bhai' or trimurti of Chouhan, Tomar and himself.

"Those who remain with people during their good and bad days or those indulging in corruption and exchange of money, Scindia said.

Praising Chouhan for his leadership skills, he said It is not an easy task to remain chief minister for 13 long years. It is possible only when you actually have made a place for yourself in the hearts of people."

The Congress should have drawn a bigger line than the BJP after coming to power, it drew a big line but that of corruption and unfulfilled promises, Scindia alleged.

The coming bypolls will be a fight for justice and honour and those who did not remain in the midst of people when needed have no right to seek votes from them, he said. 
&nbsp;

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday said the upcoming assembly bypolls in Madhya Pradesh are crucial as their outcome will decide the future of the state, and sought to portray them as a "bada-chota bhai" versus "trimurti" battle for leadership.

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday said the upcoming assembly bypolls in Madhya Pradesh are crucial as their outcome will decide the future of the state, and sought to portray them as a "bada-chota bhai" versus "trimurti" battle for leadership. He said the bypolls will decide whether people want the leadership of "bada-chota bhai" (an apparent reference to Congress veterans Kamal Nath and Digvijaya Singh) or that of trimurti (triumvirate, a reference to chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP leader Narendra Singh Tomar and Scindia). Also read | Sonia Gandhi to remain interim Congress chief for a few more months: Sources Bypolls are due on more than two dozen seats in Madhya Pradesh but their schedule is yet to be announced. The former Union minister, who quit the Congress in March and later joined the BJP, was speaking on the last day of BJP membership drive in his bastion Gwalior. Referring to development of the region, Scindia said Chouhan sanctioned schemes worth Rs 110 crore for development of Gohad (a constituency in Bhind district), but Kamal Nath, during his tenure as chief minister, always complained about shortage of funds." From where money has come now? Scindia asked. "After 15 years, when the Congress government was formed in the state (in 2018), out of the 34 seats in the Gwalior-Chambal region, 26 were won by the Congress. The contribution of this region (in Congress victory) was immense," he said. But in 15 months (of the Congress rule), everyone has watched what has happened. We have no greed for chair or power, but it was a question of justice, pride and development," Scindia said, apparently referring to his decision to quit the Congress. "The coming bypolls will decide the future of Madhya Pradesh. Whether people want 'bada-chota bhai' or trimurti of Chouhan, Tomar and himself. "Those who remain with people during their good and bad days or those indulging in corruption and exchange of money, Scindia said. Praising Chouhan for his leadership skills, he said It is not an easy task to remain chief minister for 13 long years. It is possible only when you actually have made a place for yourself in the hearts of people." The Congress should have drawn a bigger line than the BJP after coming to power, it drew a big line but that of corruption and unfulfilled promises, Scindia alleged. The coming bypolls will be a fight for justice and honour and those who did not remain in the midst of people when needed have no right to seek votes from them, he said.

Battle between big-small brother and triumvirate: Jyotiraditya Scindia on bypolls

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday directed municipal corporations in Thane district to intensify their fight against COVID-19.

These municipal corporations fall under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) which has seen a surge in the new cases and fatalities.

Thackeray reviewed the status of pandemic in Thane district during his visit.

"Civic bodies in Thane district should intensify their fight against COVID-19 with the help of Coorona Vigilance Committees," he said while speaking at a meeting held at the Thane Municipal Corporation.

He said police and municipal corporations should focus on tracking and tracing contacts of COVID-19 patients.

"Chase the virus" campaign should be carried out effectively, he said.

The CM later handed over 20 ambulances to the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday directed municipal corporations in Thane district to intensify their fight against COVID-19. These municipal corporations fall under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) which has seen a surge in the new cases and fatalities.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday directed municipal corporations in Thane district to intensify their fight against COVID-19. These municipal corporations fall under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) which has seen a surge in the new cases and fatalities. Thackeray reviewed the status of pandemic in Thane district during his visit. "Civic bodies in Thane district should intensify their fight against COVID-19 with the help of Coorona Vigilance Committees," he said while speaking at a meeting held at the Thane Municipal Corporation. He said police and municipal corporations should focus on tracking and tracing contacts of COVID-19 patients. "Chase the virus" campaign should be carried out effectively, he said. The CM later handed over 20 ambulances to the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation.

Intensify fight against COVID-19: Maharashtra CM tells civic bodies

With a single-day spike of 61,408 infections, India's COVID-19 tally breached the 31-lakh mark, a day after it crossed 30 lakh, while recoveries surged to 23,38,035, pushing the recovery rate to over 75 per cent, according to the health ministry data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtras-covid-19-case-count-grows-by-10441-death-count-by-258-322613">Also Read:&nbsp;Maharashtra's COVID-19 case count grows by 10,441; death count by 258</a>&nbsp;

India's COVID-19 caseload mounted to 31,06,348, while the death toll climbed to 57,542 with 836 fatalities being reported in a span of 24-hours.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate has declined to 1.85 per cent while the recovery rate has risen to 75.27 per cent.

There are 7,10,771 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 22.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 3,59,02,137 samples have been tested up to August 23 with 6,09,917 samples being tested on Sunday.

With a single-day spike of 61,408 infections, India's COVID-19 tally breached the 31-lakh mark, a day after it crossed 30 lakh, while recoveries surged to 23,38,035, pushing the recovery rate to over 75 per cent, according to the health ministry data.

With a single-day spike of 61,408 infections, India's COVID-19 tally breached the 31-lakh mark, a day after it crossed 30 lakh, while recoveries surged to 23,38,035, pushing the recovery rate to over 75 per cent, according to the health ministry data. Also Read: Maharashtra's COVID-19 case count grows by 10,441; death count by 258 India's COVID-19 caseload mounted to 31,06,348, while the death toll climbed to 57,542 with 836 fatalities being reported in a span of 24-hours. The COVID-19 case fatality rate has declined to 1.85 per cent while the recovery rate has risen to 75.27 per cent. There are 7,10,771 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 22.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 3,59,02,137 samples have been tested up to August 23 with 6,09,917 samples being tested on Sunday.

COVID-19: India records over 61,000 cases; death toll rises to 57,542

Union territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is being built over the Chenab river.

Deputy chief engineer RR Malik who is the project manager told WION, "We have a deadline of 2022."

Asked about how difficult the task is given the geography, he said, "It is not an easy job, building in such terrain."

It will connect the Kashmir valley with Katra in Jammu and the rest of the country, overall it will reduce journey time by 5-6 hours from Katra to Srinagar.

Reasi district of J&amp;K which is&nbsp;famous for Vaishno Devi shrine is expected to get a major uptick in tourism with the highest railway bridge project.

Indu Kanwal Chib (KAS), deputy commissioner, Reasi explained to WION: "This bridge will be one of its kind. It has a helipad, so what will happen, people from Delhi can come via chopper."

"It will generate local employment. Hectic activity will happen. It will also boost the local economy. People of my districts are waiting for it to be finished," &nbsp;Reasi added.

The total length of the rail bridge is 1.3 km long and it can with withstand an earthquake measuring more than 7 on the Richter scale. The project is being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower.

Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is being built over the Chenab river. Deputy chief engineer RR Malik who is the project manager told WION, "We have a deadline of 2022." Asked about how difficult the task is given the geography, he said, "It is not an easy job, building in such terrain." It will connect the Kashmir valley with Katra in Jammu and the rest of the country, overall it will reduce journey time by 5-6 hours from Katra to Srinagar. Reasi district of J&K which is famous for Vaishno Devi shrine is expected to get a major uptick in tourism with the highest railway bridge project. Indu Kanwal Chib (KAS), deputy commissioner, Reasi explained to WION: "This bridge will be one of its kind. It has a helipad, so what will happen, people from Delhi can come via chopper." "It will generate local employment. Hectic activity will happen. It will also boost the local economy. People of my districts are waiting for it to be finished," Reasi added. The total length of the rail bridge is 1.3 km long and it can with withstand an earthquake measuring more than 7 on the Richter scale. The project is being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

India to complete construction of highest rail bridge in J&K by 2022

At least 15 people were rescued and nearly hundreds are feared trapped after a five-storey building collapsed in the western Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday evening.&nbsp;

The incident took place at a residential building at Mahad Tehsil in Raigad district, where nearly 45 flats are constructed and nearly 100 people reside.

Maharashtra minister Aditi S Tatkare said as per the preliminary information over 200 people are feared trapped inside the building, reported news agency ANI. However, the police said 75 people are stranded, reported news agency IANS.&nbsp;

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Today at about 1850 hrs, A G+4 building collapsed in Kajalpura area of Mahad Tehsil in Dist. Raigad, Maharashtra. 
About 50 people are feared to be trapped. 3 teams of 5 BN NDRF have moved: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) <a href="https://t.co/XlWegCSHqq">pic.twitter.com/XlWegCSHqq</a>
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3 floors of a 5-storey building collapsed in Mahad of Raigad district; over 200 people are feared trapped. 15 people have been rescued: Aditi S Tatkare, Maharashtra Minister <a href="https://t.co/OWXKxfs0F2">pic.twitter.com/OWXKxfs0F2</a>
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Both Tatkare and police said 15 people have been rescued so far.&nbsp;

The minister said six teams, including three NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams, have been moved to the spot to carry out rescue work and more personnel are expected to join in.&nbsp;

At least 15 people were rescued and nearly hundreds are feared trapped after a five-storey building collapsed in the western Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday evening.

At least 15 people were rescued and nearly hundreds are feared trapped after a five-storey building collapsed in the western Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday evening. The incident took place at a residential building at Mahad Tehsil in Raigad district, where nearly 45 flats are constructed and nearly 100 people reside. Maharashtra minister Aditi S Tatkare said as per the preliminary information over 200 people are feared trapped inside the building, reported news agency ANI. However, the police said 75 people are stranded, reported news agency IANS. Today at about 1850 hrs, A G+4 building collapsed in Kajalpura area of Mahad Tehsil in Dist. Raigad, Maharashtra. About 50 people are feared to be trapped. 3 teams of 5 BN NDRF have moved: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) pic.twitter.com/XlWegCSHqq — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2020 × 3 floors of a 5-storey building collapsed in Mahad of Raigad district; over 200 people are feared trapped. 15 people have been rescued: Aditi S Tatkare, Maharashtra Minister pic.twitter.com/OWXKxfs0F2 — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2020 × Both Tatkare and police said 15 people have been rescued so far. The minister said six teams, including three NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams, have been moved to the spot to carry out rescue work and more personnel are expected to join in.

At least 75 feared trapped as five-story building collapses in Western Indian state

Sonia Gandhi will continue as interim President of the Indian National Congress till a new chief is elected in an All India Congress Working Committee (AICC) session.

According to the reports, Congress's new chief will be elected within the next six months. The decision was taken at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting which took place on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Congress Working Committee saw bloopers of epic proportion take place during the meeting. Not only deliberations were leaked verbatim, but the members of the party themselves also took pictures of the meeting and distributed it to the media.

Such was the panic in the initial 2 hours of the meeting that Congress President Sonia Gandhi had to express displeasure to the members while the meeting was on. Party managers had to send express messages outside so that the leaks could be prevented. Such was the flow of information that Kapil Sibbal who is not part of the Congress Working Committee tweeted on a statement allegedly made by Rahul Gandhi.

Randeep Surjewala, head of Congress media department denied the news. Subsequently, Kapil Sibbal withdrew the tweet that Rahul Gandhi himself called him to say that he never said that those who wrote the letter top Sonia Gandhi were colluding with BJP.

It also sent the social media department into a tizzy. Messages were sent to the leaders that they should ensure that their screen remains switched so that everyone can see who is in the frame and who has left.

The leak of gargantuan proportion has left the party red-faced. Instead of discussing real issues, a large portion of time was consumed by the blame game.

No one said that either Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi should leave their current roles.

On top of it, the chorus inside became an exercise in endorsing and strengthening the position of Rahul Gandhi in the Congress Party.

The meeting which was supposed to address the structural issue took an emotional turn and ended up persuading Sonia Gandhi to continue as the interim president.

Lastly, those who were supporting dissenting voices in Congress were first to support Gandhi’s and leading to the Gang of 23 getting royally snubbed.

Sonia Gandhi will continue as interim President of the Indian National Congress till a new chief is elected in an All India Congress Working Committee (AICC) session.

Sonia Gandhi will continue as interim President of the Indian National Congress till a new chief is elected in an All India Congress Working Committee (AICC) session. According to the reports, Congress's new chief will be elected within the next six months. The decision was taken at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting which took place on Monday. Meanwhile, the Congress Working Committee saw bloopers of epic proportion take place during the meeting. Not only deliberations were leaked verbatim, but the members of the party themselves also took pictures of the meeting and distributed it to the media. Such was the panic in the initial 2 hours of the meeting that Congress President Sonia Gandhi had to express displeasure to the members while the meeting was on. Party managers had to send express messages outside so that the leaks could be prevented. Such was the flow of information that Kapil Sibbal who is not part of the Congress Working Committee tweeted on a statement allegedly made by Rahul Gandhi. Randeep Surjewala, head of Congress media department denied the news. Subsequently, Kapil Sibbal withdrew the tweet that Rahul Gandhi himself called him to say that he never said that those who wrote the letter top Sonia Gandhi were colluding with BJP. It also sent the social media department into a tizzy. Messages were sent to the leaders that they should ensure that their screen remains switched so that everyone can see who is in the frame and who has left. The leak of gargantuan proportion has left the party red-faced. Instead of discussing real issues, a large portion of time was consumed by the blame game. No one said that either Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi should leave their current roles. On top of it, the chorus inside became an exercise in endorsing and strengthening the position of Rahul Gandhi in the Congress Party. The meeting which was supposed to address the structural issue took an emotional turn and ended up persuading Sonia Gandhi to continue as the interim president. Lastly, those who were supporting dissenting voices in Congress were first to support Gandhi’s and leading to the Gang of 23 getting royally snubbed.

Revolt fails to take off in Congress against Gandhis; the gang of 23 snubbed in public

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday said he is infected with the novel coronavirus.

"I was tested for Novel Corona Virus today. My test report has returned positive," the CM of Northern Indian state said, in a Twitter post.&nbsp;

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I was tested for Novel Corona Virus today. My test report has returned positive. 
 
I appeal to all colleagues and associates who came in my contact over the last week to get themselves tested. I request my close contacts to move into strict quarantine immediately.
— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) <a href="https://twitter.com/mlkhattar/status/1297889527604719616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I appeal to all colleagues and associates who came in my contact over the last week to get themselves tested. I request my close contacts to move into strict quarantine immediately."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-over-61000-cases-death-toll-rises-to-57542-322669">COVID-19: India records over 61,000 cases; death toll rises to 57,542</a>

Earlier on Monday, Haryana assembly speaker Gian Chand Gupta and two other BJP MLAs from the state had also tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

The developments today have raised concerns as in two days Monsoon Session is set to begin in Haryana. &nbsp;

Khattar is another chief minister of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who has tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier, BJP's Shivraj Singh Chouhan and BS Yediyurappa, who are CMs of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan respectively contracted coronavirus.&nbsp;

However, both, Chouhan and Yediyurappa have recovered from the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a few days ago Union Home Minister and former BJP chief Amit Shah was readmitted after he was successfully treated with coronavirus. Though Shah had tested negative and discharged, on Aug 17, he complained of “uneasiness” and “breathing difficulties” due to which he was hospitalised again.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday said he is infected with the novel coronavirus. "I was tested for Novel Corona Virus today. My test report has returned positive," the CM of Northern Indian state said, in a Twitter post.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday said he is infected with the novel coronavirus. "I was tested for Novel Corona Virus today. My test report has returned positive," the CM of Northern Indian state said, in a Twitter post. I was tested for Novel Corona Virus today. My test report has returned positive. I appeal to all colleagues and associates who came in my contact over the last week to get themselves tested. I request my close contacts to move into strict quarantine immediately. — Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) August 24, 2020 × "I appeal to all colleagues and associates who came in my contact over the last week to get themselves tested. I request my close contacts to move into strict quarantine immediately." Also read | COVID-19: India records over 61,000 cases; death toll rises to 57,542 Earlier on Monday, Haryana assembly speaker Gian Chand Gupta and two other BJP MLAs from the state had also tested positive for coronavirus. The developments today have raised concerns as in two days Monsoon Session is set to begin in Haryana. Khattar is another chief minister of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who has tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier, BJP's Shivraj Singh Chouhan and BS Yediyurappa, who are CMs of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan respectively contracted coronavirus. However, both, Chouhan and Yediyurappa have recovered from the deadly virus. Meanwhile, a few days ago Union Home Minister and former BJP chief Amit Shah was readmitted after he was successfully treated with coronavirus. Though Shah had tested negative and discharged, on Aug 17, he complained of “uneasiness” and “breathing difficulties” due to which he was hospitalised again.

Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar contracts coronavirus, urges others who came in contact to get tested

Sonia Gandhi will remain Congress party's interim president for now, new chief to be elected within next six months, said sources as the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting concludes after 7 hours.

According to the sources, a panel has also been formed to help Sonia Gandhi in her day-to-day functioning. An All India Congress Committee (AICC) session will be called within six months.&nbsp;

“Congress is one big family and I don’t hold anything against anyone. But all, especially senior leaders should raise concerns at the party forum only,” Sonia Gandhi said in her concluding remarks at the CWC meeting. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi will remain Congress party's interim president for now, new chief to be elected within next six months, said sources as the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting concludes after 7 hours.

Sonia Gandhi will remain Congress party's interim president for now, new chief to be elected within next six months, said sources as the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting concludes after 7 hours. According to the sources, a panel has also been formed to help Sonia Gandhi in her day-to-day functioning. An All India Congress Committee (AICC) session will be called within six months. “Congress is one big family and I don’t hold anything against anyone. But all, especially senior leaders should raise concerns at the party forum only,” Sonia Gandhi said in her concluding remarks at the CWC meeting. (With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi to remain interim Congress chief for a few more months: Sources

Coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted the travel and hotel industry, however, a luxury resort in southern Indian state has started a new economic activity to save the business sinking because of the crisis.&nbsp;

Aveda Resort in the state of Kerala has turned its 150-metre (500-feet) pool into a fish farm and the resort is planning to export the harvest to the Middle East.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-over-61000-cases-death-toll-rises-to-57542-322669">COVID-19: India records over 61,000 cases; death toll rises to 57,542</a>

The resort is generally packed with European travellers, but the pandemic has forced the owners to use its pool with 7.5 million litres of water for pearl spot fish farming.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rise-in-covid-19-cases-in-india-due-to-flouting-of-norms-by-people-lt-governor-kiran-bedi-322614">Rise in COVID-19 cases in India due to flouting of norms by people: Lt Governor Kiran Bedi</a>

"We have had zero revenues, so in June, we put around 16,000 two-month-old pearl spot fish in the pool," said Aveda's general manager Jyotish Surendran to news agency AFP.

"We plan to harvest by November and will export to the Middle East," he said.&nbsp;

The fist is fondly eaten in Southern India and the Middle East and Surendran claims the value of four tonnes of pearl spots growing in the pool could worth $40,000 on the market.

The general manager says that the money generated from the farm could not compensate the losses they suffered due to the pandemic, but he was hopeful that the money would help them keep the business running until tourists return.&nbsp;

"We can't continue with this farm in the pool, but we are trying to find alternative land where we can build up this knowledge for bigger projects," Surendran said.

Coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted the travel and hotel industry, however, a luxury resort in southern Indian state has started a new economic activity to save the business sinking because of the crisis.

Coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted the travel and hotel industry, however, a luxury resort in southern Indian state has started a new economic activity to save the business sinking because of the crisis. Aveda Resort in the state of Kerala has turned its 150-metre (500-feet) pool into a fish farm and the resort is planning to export the harvest to the Middle East. Also read | COVID-19: India records over 61,000 cases; death toll rises to 57,542 The resort is generally packed with European travellers, but the pandemic has forced the owners to use its pool with 7.5 million litres of water for pearl spot fish farming. Also read | Rise in COVID-19 cases in India due to flouting of norms by people: Lt Governor Kiran Bedi "We have had zero revenues, so in June, we put around 16,000 two-month-old pearl spot fish in the pool," said Aveda's general manager Jyotish Surendran to news agency AFP. "We plan to harvest by November and will export to the Middle East," he said. The fist is fondly eaten in Southern India and the Middle East and Surendran claims the value of four tonnes of pearl spots growing in the pool could worth $40,000 on the market. The general manager says that the money generated from the farm could not compensate the losses they suffered due to the pandemic, but he was hopeful that the money would help them keep the business running until tourists return. "We can't continue with this farm in the pool, but we are trying to find alternative land where we can build up this knowledge for bigger projects," Surendran said.

Amid pandemic, luxury resort in Kerala turns swimming pool into fish farm

Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation.

Sibal is a signatory to the letter which also sought elections to the Congress Working Committee (CWC).

As the CWC meeting was underway on Monday and it was reported that Rahul Gandhi had lashed out at the letter writers, Sibal tweeted, "Rahul says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government".

<img alt="Kapil Sibal's tweet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="385a5626-ba27-4581-8652-d525c16172cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sibal%20tweet.jpg" />

"Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!", he tweeted.

Sibal later withdrew his tweet and said the former party chief had informed him personally that he had never made the "colluding with the BJP" remark.

Sibal said a little later that he was withdrawing the tweet, saying, "Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him. I therefore withdraw my tweet."

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Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him . 
 
I therefore withdraw my tweet .
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Tagging Sibal's earlier tweet, Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also tweeted, saying Rahul Gandhi hasn't said a word of this nature nor alluded to it.

"Please don't be misled by false media discourse or misinformation being spread. But yes, we all need to work together in fighting the draconian Modi rule rather than fighting and hurting each other and the Congress," Surjewala said.

Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility.

He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,".&nbsp;

The Congress leader questioned the timing of the letter by a section of the party and attacked them for going public against the leadership, saying differences needed to be discussed in party platforms and not the media.

It was reported that he also insinuated that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP, as it came at a time when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised and the party was fighting with the BJP in Rajasthan to save its government.

The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former minister Ghulam Nabi Azad at the meeting. Azad said he would resign if any such link with the BJP is established, sources said.

In his brief moving intervention at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have said why that timing was chosen to send the letter when Sonia Gandhi was in hospital and the party was fighting the BJP in Rajasthan, insinuating that such a letter at the time would help the BJP, sources said.

Azad, who is one of the signatories of the letter, read out the contents, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party.

(with inputs from agencies)

Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation.

Echoes of the fiery Monday meeting of the working committee of India's oldest political party Congress -- which is underway -- were heard outside with former minister Kapil Sibal publically questioning Rahul Gandhi's remarks insinuating a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) link to a letter seeking sweeping changes to party organisation. Sibal is a signatory to the letter which also sought elections to the Congress Working Committee (CWC). As the CWC meeting was underway on Monday and it was reported that Rahul Gandhi had lashed out at the letter writers, Sibal tweeted, "Rahul says 'we are colluding with BJP'. Succeeded in Rajasthan High Court defending the Congress Party. Defending party in Manipur to bring down BJP government". "Last 30 years have never made a statement in favour of BJP on any issue. Yet 'we are colluding with the BJP'!", he tweeted. Sibal later withdrew his tweet and said the former party chief had informed him personally that he had never made the "colluding with the BJP" remark. Sibal said a little later that he was withdrawing the tweet, saying, "Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him. I therefore withdraw my tweet." Was informed by Rahul Gandhi personally that he never said what was attributed to him . I therefore withdraw my tweet . — Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) August 24, 2020 × Tagging Sibal's earlier tweet, Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also tweeted, saying Rahul Gandhi hasn't said a word of this nature nor alluded to it. "Please don't be misled by false media discourse or misinformation being spread. But yes, we all need to work together in fighting the draconian Modi rule rather than fighting and hurting each other and the Congress," Surjewala said. Earlier addressing the CWC, Rahul Gandhi said Sonia Gandhi had accepted the party presidentship only after the committee last year urged her to take responsibility. He took on the leaders who went public with their complaints saying, "it is the CWC where we discuss our differences and put out our thoughts, not the media,". The Congress leader questioned the timing of the letter by a section of the party and attacked them for going public against the leadership, saying differences needed to be discussed in party platforms and not the media. It was reported that he also insinuated that the letter seeking leadership changes was written in cahoots with the BJP, as it came at a time when Sonia Gandhi was hospitalised and the party was fighting with the BJP in Rajasthan to save its government. The charge invited sharp rebuttals from former minister Ghulam Nabi Azad at the meeting. Azad said he would resign if any such link with the BJP is established, sources said. In his brief moving intervention at the CWC, Rahul Gandhi is learnt to have said why that timing was chosen to send the letter when Sonia Gandhi was in hospital and the party was fighting the BJP in Rajasthan, insinuating that such a letter at the time would help the BJP, sources said. Azad, who is one of the signatories of the letter, read out the contents, saying the leaders are not questioning Sonia Gandhi and only wanted organisational reform in the larger interest of the party. (with inputs from agencies)

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