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As the government's clampdown on telecom companies intensifies, Bharti Airtel today claimed to have paid ₹10,000 crore to the telecom department as part of statutory dues.

The company is expected to make more payments over time, after the Supreme Court's stern orders.

"The...Amount of ₹10,000 crore has been paid on behalf of Bharti Airtel, Bharti Hexacom, and Telenor," the company said in a statement.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/supreme-court-rejects-plea-of-telecom-giants-to-review-over-order-for-paying-rs-92k-cr-to-govt-274777/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

News agency PTI reported that Bharti Airtel (alongside the newly merged Telenor India) has paid ₹9,500 crore and Bharti Hexacom has paid another ₹ 500 crore.

The government recently released its figure, according to which, Airtel owes nearly ₹35, 586 crore in statutory dues, which includes licencing fee and the charges for using spectrum.

The Supreme Court's recent strong-worded directions to telecom companies to pay, the telecom department issued orders to Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea to pay the past dues as soon as possible.

Following suit, the telecom department issued notices threatening action in terms of the licence terms unless the dues were paid.

Also read: <a class="gs-title" data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/vodafone-idea-bharti-airtel-reliance-jio-hike-prepaid-prices-by-40-265657" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/vodafone-idea-bharti-airtel-reliance-jio-hike-prepaid-prices-by-40-265657&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIh6nhjtjnAhXzxzgGHQYxCJ8QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0sPVUfCC2tQTbbjM3eknKU" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/vodafone-idea-bharti-airtel-reliance-jio-hike-prepaid-prices-by-40-265657" target="_blank">Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio hike prepaid prices</a>

In Uttar Pradesh (East), the office remained open even on a Saturday to ensure the payments were made.

On Friday, Airtel vowed to pay ₹10,000 crores to the Department of Telecommunications by February 20, with the leftover amount set to be paid before March 17.

But on Monday, the company said, "we are in the process of completing the self assessment exercise expeditiously and will duly make the balance payment upon completion of the same, before the next date of hearing in (the) SC".

Also read: <a class="gs-title" data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/currently-assessing-the-amount-will-make-payment-in-next-few-days-vodafone-280851" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/currently-assessing-the-amount-will-make-payment-in-next-few-days-vodafone-280851&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEg4f3jtjnAhWNxzgGHf4BDPwQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw33iN3VsudiucgMhUBT4zpQ" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/currently-assessing-the-amount-will-make-payment-in-next-few-days-vodafone-280851" target="_blank">Currently assessing the amount; will make payment in next few days</a>: Vodafone

As per PTI, 15 entities owe ₹1.47 lakh crore, ₹92,642 crore in unpaid licence fee and ₹55,054 crore in spectrum usage charges.

Vodafine Idea Ltd owes dues worth ₹53,000 crore: ₹24,729 crore in spectrum dues and ₹28,309 in licence fee.

(With inputs from PTI, ANI)

As the government's clampdown on telecom companies intensifies, Bharti Airtel today claimed to have paid ₹10,000 crore to the telecom department as part of statutory dues.

As the government's clampdown on telecom companies intensifies, Bharti Airtel today claimed to have paid ₹10,000 crore to the telecom department as part of statutory dues. The company is expected to make more payments over time, after the Supreme Court's stern orders. "The...Amount of ₹10,000 crore has been paid on behalf of Bharti Airtel, Bharti Hexacom, and Telenor," the company said in a statement. News agency PTI reported that Bharti Airtel (alongside the newly merged Telenor India) has paid ₹9,500 crore and Bharti Hexacom has paid another ₹ 500 crore. The government recently released its figure, according to which, Airtel owes nearly ₹35, 586 crore in statutory dues, which includes licencing fee and the charges for using spectrum. The Supreme Court's recent strong-worded directions to telecom companies to pay, the telecom department issued orders to Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea to pay the past dues as soon as possible. Following suit, the telecom department issued notices threatening action in terms of the licence terms unless the dues were paid. Also read: Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio hike prepaid prices In Uttar Pradesh (East), the office remained open even on a Saturday to ensure the payments were made. On Friday, Airtel vowed to pay ₹10,000 crores to the Department of Telecommunications by February 20, with the leftover amount set to be paid before March 17. But on Monday, the company said, "we are in the process of completing the self assessment exercise expeditiously and will duly make the balance payment upon completion of the same, before the next date of hearing in (the) SC". Also read: Currently assessing the amount; will make payment in next few days: Vodafone As per PTI, 15 entities owe ₹1.47 lakh crore, ₹92,642 crore in unpaid licence fee and ₹55,054 crore in spectrum usage charges. Vodafine Idea Ltd owes dues worth ₹53,000 crore: ₹24,729 crore in spectrum dues and ₹28,309 in licence fee. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)

Airtel pays statutory dues worth ₹10,000 crore after Supreme Court's stern orders

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220" target="_blank">Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)</a>&nbsp;to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today.

Kejriwal is sworn-in as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-to-be-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-on-february-16-280211" target="_blank">Chief Minister of Delhi</a>&nbsp;for the third time in a row.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-not-to-attend-hemant-sorens-swearing-in-ceremony-270800" target="_blank">Kejriwal</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to take oath along with other ministers at 10 am at a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. Big banners with messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with the image of Kejriwal have been put along the route of Ramlila Maidan.

The 51-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician will be administered the oath of office and secrecy by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal at Ramlila Maidan here, which has been all decked for the momentous moment.

<img alt="Arvind Kejriwal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ab4ee98-d4fa-470b-b381-63c0083cfd8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_8.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;AAP Leader Arvind Kejriwal (Courtesy: AFP) ]

Also See:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-irs-officer-to-delhi-cm-the-journey-of-arvind-kejriwal-280027" target="_blank">From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal</a>

Referring to himself as "son of Delhi", Kejriwal extended an invitation to Delhiites for his oath ceremony and tweeted, "I am so glad that such large number of people are joining the new politics - kaam ki raajniti." On Saturday, Kejriwal, through a tweet, has said that autorickshaw drivers, students, teachers, doctors, labourers etc will be the "chief guests".

The Directorate of Education (DoE) Board in Delhi has requested all the heads of all Delhi government schools to attend the ceremony, along with Vice-Principals, Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Coordinators, Happiness Coordinators, and Teacher Development Coordinators are also requested to attend the ceremony.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-can-arvind-kejriwal-retain-his-throne-279957" target="_blank">Delhi: Can Arvind Kejriwal retain his throne?</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-can-arvind-kejriwal-retain-his-throne-279957/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The venue also served as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-arvind-kejriwal-promises-to-end-civic-woes-in-manifesto-275254" target="_blank">battleground for Kejriwal</a>&nbsp;during India Against Corruption movement in 2011. By winning 62 seats by cashing in on the plank of development, his party nearly repeated its 2015 performance, sweeping the Assembly polls in the face of a high-voltage campaign by the BJP, which had fielded a battery of Union Ministers and Chief Ministers in its electioneering, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah.

The BJP marginally improved its tally, managing just eight seats from its 2015's tally of three seats. The Congress failed to open its account in the second successive election.

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today.

Arvind Kejriwal, who spearheaded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to another resounding victory in the assembly elections of Delhi by winning 62 seats out of 70 against the BJP led juggernaut, takes oath as the chief minister of city-state today. Kejriwal is sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row. Kejriwal is scheduled to take oath along with other ministers at 10 am at a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. Big banners with messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with the image of Kejriwal have been put along the route of Ramlila Maidan. The 51-year-old bureaucrat-turned-politician will be administered the oath of office and secrecy by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal at Ramlila Maidan here, which has been all decked for the momentous moment. [ AAP Leader Arvind Kejriwal (Courtesy: AFP) ] Also See: From IRS officer to Delhi CM, the rise and rise of Arvind Kejriwal Referring to himself as "son of Delhi", Kejriwal extended an invitation to Delhiites for his oath ceremony and tweeted, "I am so glad that such large number of people are joining the new politics - kaam ki raajniti." On Saturday, Kejriwal, through a tweet, has said that autorickshaw drivers, students, teachers, doctors, labourers etc will be the "chief guests". The Directorate of Education (DoE) Board in Delhi has requested all the heads of all Delhi government schools to attend the ceremony, along with Vice-Principals, Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Coordinators, Happiness Coordinators, and Teacher Development Coordinators are also requested to attend the ceremony. Watch: Delhi: Can Arvind Kejriwal retain his throne? The venue also served as the battleground for Kejriwal during India Against Corruption movement in 2011. By winning 62 seats by cashing in on the plank of development, his party nearly repeated its 2015 performance, sweeping the Assembly polls in the face of a high-voltage campaign by the BJP, which had fielded a battery of Union Ministers and Chief Ministers in its electioneering, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah. The BJP marginally improved its tally, managing just eight seats from its 2015's tally of three seats. The Congress failed to open its account in the second successive election.

Arvind Kejriwal takes oath as Delhi CM for third term

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-arrives-in-pakistan-for-three-day-visit-280900">UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir</a>, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan".

"India's position has not changed. Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and will continue to be an integral part of India. The issue that needs to be addressed is that of vacation of the territories illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Further issues, if any, would be discussed bilaterally. There is no role or scope for third party mediation," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a media query regarding comments made by Guterres in Islamabad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-position-is-consistent-no-role-for-any-third-party-mediation-in-kashmir-matter-india-276136">Also read: Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India</a>

"We hope the UN Secretary-General would emphasise on the imperative for Pakistan to take a credible, sustained and irreversible action to put an end to cross-border terrorism against India, which threatens the most fundamental human right - the right to life, of the people of India, including in J&amp;K," he added.

The UN chief, who arrived in Pakistan on a four-day visit, addressed a press conference along with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, wherein he also expressed his "deep concern" over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).

Guterres also said that it was important for India and Pakistan to de-escalate "militarily and verbally" and exercise "maximum restraint", amidst tense relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

"I have offered my good offices in relation to the dispute. He further noted that he exchanged thoughts with Qureshi on the security situation in South Asia and that mediation, as well as talks, were the only solution to regional conflicts," the Secretary-General said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded its diplomatic ties with India.

However, India has defended its move, saying that the special status provisions were revoked in order to bring development in the region and reduce cross-border terrorism.

A proposal of mediation was also offered last year by US President Donald Trump in the presence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediation-only-if-both-india-pakistan-agree-trump-after-meeting-pm-imran-khan-251588">Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan</a> at a joint press conference during the latter`s visit to Washington in July.

Meanwhile, during his meeting with the president, a day after Trump held bilateral talks with Khan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan and has urged it to take concrete steps to tackle terrorism but they have not made any efforts to combat the menace.

New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not initiate until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil.

Putting forward his perspective on terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had further conveyed to President Trump that 42,000 lives have been lost in terror attacks in the last 30 years and that it is imperative for the international community to join the fight against terror.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday rejected an offer of mediation proposed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Kashmir, saying the focus instead should be on getting vacated the territories that are "illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan". "India's position has not changed. Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and will continue to be an integral part of India. The issue that needs to be addressed is that of vacation of the territories illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Further issues, if any, would be discussed bilaterally. There is no role or scope for third party mediation," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a media query regarding comments made by Guterres in Islamabad. Also read: Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India "We hope the UN Secretary-General would emphasise on the imperative for Pakistan to take a credible, sustained and irreversible action to put an end to cross-border terrorism against India, which threatens the most fundamental human right - the right to life, of the people of India, including in J&K," he added. The UN chief, who arrived in Pakistan on a four-day visit, addressed a press conference along with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, wherein he also expressed his "deep concern" over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and tensions along the Line of Control (LoC). Guterres also said that it was important for India and Pakistan to de-escalate "militarily and verbally" and exercise "maximum restraint", amidst tense relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. "I have offered my good offices in relation to the dispute. He further noted that he exchanged thoughts with Qureshi on the security situation in South Asia and that mediation, as well as talks, were the only solution to regional conflicts," the Secretary-General said. Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 last year. India's decision evoked strong reactions from Pakistan, which downgraded its diplomatic ties with India. However, India has defended its move, saying that the special status provisions were revoked in order to bring development in the region and reduce cross-border terrorism. A proposal of mediation was also offered last year by US President Donald Trump in the presence of Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan at a joint press conference during the latter`s visit to Washington in July. Meanwhile, during his meeting with the president, a day after Trump held bilateral talks with Khan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is not shying away from talks with Pakistan and has urged it to take concrete steps to tackle terrorism but they have not made any efforts to combat the menace. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that dialogue with Pakistan will not initiate until it takes concrete action against terror emanating from its soil. Putting forward his perspective on terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had further conveyed to President Trump that 42,000 lives have been lost in terror attacks in the last 30 years and that it is imperative for the international community to join the fight against terror.

'India's position has not changed': MEA rejects mediation offer by UN Secretary-General on Kashmir

Shaheen Bagh protesters on Sunday tried to march to Home Minister Amit Shah's residence here for a dialogue over the amended citizenship law, but were stopped by police after a little distance from the sit-in site as they did not have permission from authorities to take out the rally.

The protesters, who had announced that they will take out the march on Sunday, said they were awaiting a nod from the police which, they claimed, had sought some time.

A large posse of security personnel was deployed at Shaheen Bagh in south-east Delhi where hundreds of women protesters gathered to march towards Shah's residence on the Krishna Menon Marg for a dialogue over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

Barricades were put up in the area and the protesters were stopped a little distance from the site.

The protesters chose an eight-member delegation, including elderly women called 'dadis' of Shaheen Bagh, to approach the police "to allow them" to meet Shah and asserted that they will carry out the march peacefully.

"Police said they have forwarded our request to meet the home minister and have sought some time to arrange it," Javed Khan, one of the protesters, said.

He said the protesters will replan their march after getting confirmation from the police.

Another protestor Arbaaz said, "We will not march ahead as the police have assured us that our request has been forwarded to the authorities concerned. Amit Shah has not communicated to us anything directly but it was through a news channel."

"So, how does he want us to meet him. We are carrying out a peaceful protest so why would we need an official appointment from him?" he asked.

Another protestor Aamir said "We don't have any doubt about the CAA. We don't need any explanation or clarification on it. We are only going to meet Amit Shah to teach him the Constitution."

Unable to get the requisite permission, the anti-CAA protesters, mostly women, returned to the site where they have been holding the sit-in against the citizenship law, National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the National Population Register (NPR) for the past two months.

Police officials, including DCP (Southeast) R P Meena and Additional DCP (Southeast) Kumar Gyanesh, held talks with a group of protesters and assured them that their application has been forwarded to the authorities concerned for further action.

"The protesters wanted to know about the status of their application. This was regarding permission for marching from Shaheen Bagh to the residence of the home minister. They had given the application to us.

"We told them that the application was given to DCP New Delhi and it will be further submitted to the police headquarters which will take a final call on it," Meena said.

After continuous dialogue and efforts by senior police officials, including additional DCPs, of the South East District with a group of protesters, including the 'dadis' of Shaheen Bagh', the march was postponed, he said.

The march was unlawful as it did not have necessary permissions from law enforcement agencies concerned, Meena said in an official statement.

"The protesters accepted the police officials' requests and did not proceed. Police have requested them to make a delegation and the same will be facilitated for further appointment and meeting," he added.

Three days ago, Shah had said anyone who wants to discuss issues related to CAA with him can seek time from his office. "(We) will give time within three days," the home minister had said.

Shaheen Bagh protesters on Sunday tried to march to Home Minister Amit Shah's residence here for a dialogue over the amended citizenship law, but were stopped by police after a little distance from the sit-in site as they did not have permission from authorities to take out the rally.

Shaheen Bagh protesters on Sunday tried to march to Home Minister Amit Shah's residence here for a dialogue over the amended citizenship law, but were stopped by police after a little distance from the sit-in site as they did not have permission from authorities to take out the rally. The protesters, who had announced that they will take out the march on Sunday, said they were awaiting a nod from the police which, they claimed, had sought some time. A large posse of security personnel was deployed at Shaheen Bagh in south-east Delhi where hundreds of women protesters gathered to march towards Shah's residence on the Krishna Menon Marg for a dialogue over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). Barricades were put up in the area and the protesters were stopped a little distance from the site. The protesters chose an eight-member delegation, including elderly women called 'dadis' of Shaheen Bagh, to approach the police "to allow them" to meet Shah and asserted that they will carry out the march peacefully. "Police said they have forwarded our request to meet the home minister and have sought some time to arrange it," Javed Khan, one of the protesters, said. He said the protesters will replan their march after getting confirmation from the police. Another protestor Arbaaz said, "We will not march ahead as the police have assured us that our request has been forwarded to the authorities concerned. Amit Shah has not communicated to us anything directly but it was through a news channel." "So, how does he want us to meet him. We are carrying out a peaceful protest so why would we need an official appointment from him?" he asked. Another protestor Aamir said "We don't have any doubt about the CAA. We don't need any explanation or clarification on it. We are only going to meet Amit Shah to teach him the Constitution." Unable to get the requisite permission, the anti-CAA protesters, mostly women, returned to the site where they have been holding the sit-in against the citizenship law, National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the National Population Register (NPR) for the past two months. Police officials, including DCP (Southeast) R P Meena and Additional DCP (Southeast) Kumar Gyanesh, held talks with a group of protesters and assured them that their application has been forwarded to the authorities concerned for further action. "The protesters wanted to know about the status of their application. This was regarding permission for marching from Shaheen Bagh to the residence of the home minister. They had given the application to us. "We told them that the application was given to DCP New Delhi and it will be further submitted to the police headquarters which will take a final call on it," Meena said. After continuous dialogue and efforts by senior police officials, including additional DCPs, of the South East District with a group of protesters, including the 'dadis' of Shaheen Bagh', the march was postponed, he said. The march was unlawful as it did not have necessary permissions from law enforcement agencies concerned, Meena said in an official statement. "The protesters accepted the police officials' requests and did not proceed. Police have requested them to make a delegation and the same will be facilitated for further appointment and meeting," he added. Three days ago, Shah had said anyone who wants to discuss issues related to CAA with him can seek time from his office. "(We) will give time within three days," the home minister had said.

Shaheen Bagh protesters try to march to home minister's residence, stopped by police

India and Norway have agreed to jointly tackle concerns related to oceans, environment and climate matters, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said here on Sunday.

Javadekar, who was addressing a press conference here along with his Norwegian counterpart Sveinung Rotevan on the side-lines of a United Nation summit biodiversity conservation, emphasised for a shared understanding of the global problem, which cannot be solved by any one country alone.

Javadekar said, "'Say No to plastic'&nbsp;has been an action initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India produces 20,000 tons of plastic out of which 15,000 tons is collected. However, the remaining 5,000 to 6,000 tons remain in the water bodies. India-Norway cooperation can move ahead in this arena."

Both countries assured that they are committed to supporting global action to address plastic pollution and exploring the feasibility of establishing a new global agreement on plastic pollution.

In addition, the two sides expressed interest to continue and strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation on the environment and climate between the two countries, including on ocean affairs.

Last year, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and Norway on `India-Norway Ocean Dialogue` apart from an establishment of a joint task force on the blue economy.

According to the agreement, the ocean, if managed properly, holds the key to meeting many of the sustainable development goals. Integrated ocean management is central to achieving a sustainable blue economy.

Reiterating the importance of a joint effort towards the protection of the environment, Rotevatn said, "India and Norway have long-standing and good cooperation. Our two countries shared experiences in environment management. Norway sees India as an important player in the environment. Today we had a productive meeting."

India is marking the beginning of a super year of Biodiversity with the hosting of the 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), an environmental treaty under the aegis of United Nations Environment Programme, from February 17-22, 2020 at Gandhinagar in Gujarat.

The Opening Ceremony and Plenary session of the COP will be followed by side events and working group meetings until the closing ceremony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the COP 13 via video conferencing. Numerous national and international organisations will showcase best practices in wildlife conservation during the course of the conference.

Representatives from 130 Parties and eminent conservationists and international NGOs working in the field of wildlife conservation will attend the UN summit.&nbsp;

India and Norway have agreed to jointly tackle concerns related to oceans, environment and climate matters, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said here on Sunday.

India and Norway have agreed to jointly tackle concerns related to oceans, environment and climate matters, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said here on Sunday. Javadekar, who was addressing a press conference here along with his Norwegian counterpart Sveinung Rotevan on the side-lines of a United Nation summit biodiversity conservation, emphasised for a shared understanding of the global problem, which cannot be solved by any one country alone. Javadekar said, "'Say No to plastic' has been an action initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India produces 20,000 tons of plastic out of which 15,000 tons is collected. However, the remaining 5,000 to 6,000 tons remain in the water bodies. India-Norway cooperation can move ahead in this arena." Both countries assured that they are committed to supporting global action to address plastic pollution and exploring the feasibility of establishing a new global agreement on plastic pollution. In addition, the two sides expressed interest to continue and strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation on the environment and climate between the two countries, including on ocean affairs. Last year, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and Norway on `India-Norway Ocean Dialogue` apart from an establishment of a joint task force on the blue economy. According to the agreement, the ocean, if managed properly, holds the key to meeting many of the sustainable development goals. Integrated ocean management is central to achieving a sustainable blue economy. Reiterating the importance of a joint effort towards the protection of the environment, Rotevatn said, "India and Norway have long-standing and good cooperation. Our two countries shared experiences in environment management. Norway sees India as an important player in the environment. Today we had a productive meeting." India is marking the beginning of a super year of Biodiversity with the hosting of the 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), an environmental treaty under the aegis of United Nations Environment Programme, from February 17-22, 2020 at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. The Opening Ceremony and Plenary session of the COP will be followed by side events and working group meetings until the closing ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the COP 13 via video conferencing. Numerous national and international organisations will showcase best practices in wildlife conservation during the course of the conference. Representatives from 130 Parties and eminent conservationists and international NGOs working in the field of wildlife conservation will attend the UN summit.

India, Norway agree to jointly tackle environmental concerns

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection.

Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said.

Five separate teams of doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Safdarjung Hospital, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital among others have been set up.

"The teams will visit the bordering districts of the states allotted to them. The regional director (Ministry of Health) will coordinate with the respective state health departments for the visit of the team to the bordering villages," the order read.

India has so far reported three confirmed cases of the virus, all in Kerala.

One of the three medical students, who had tested positive for novel coronavirus infection and were treated at a hospital in Kerala, has been discharged after recovery, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had said on Thursday.

About the other two, he said subsequent tests indicated a significant reduction in "viral load".

The health ministry has asked people to refrain from travelling to China in view of the coronavirus outbreak and said travellers on return could be quarantined.

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection. Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said.

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection. Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said. Five separate teams of doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Safdarjung Hospital, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital among others have been set up. "The teams will visit the bordering districts of the states allotted to them. The regional director (Ministry of Health) will coordinate with the respective state health departments for the visit of the team to the bordering villages," the order read. India has so far reported three confirmed cases of the virus, all in Kerala. One of the three medical students, who had tested positive for novel coronavirus infection and were treated at a hospital in Kerala, has been discharged after recovery, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had said on Thursday. About the other two, he said subsequent tests indicated a significant reduction in "viral load". The health ministry has asked people to refrain from travelling to China in view of the coronavirus outbreak and said travellers on return could be quarantined.

Government sets up teams to inspect villages bordering Nepal for COVID-19

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has stumbled upon "evidence" of funding of terror groups through cross-border trade during its probe into the case of Deputy Superintendent of Police Davinder Singh who was caught escorting militants out of Kashmir Valley, officials said on Sunday.

The officials said NIA investigators grilled self-styled commander of the banned Hizbul Mujahideen terror group Syed Naveed Mushtaq Ahmed alias Naveed Babu, who was caught with Singh, about the funding of the organisation and the way they had been in touch with their masters in Pakistan.

The agency has stumbled upon "evidence" of terror financing through cross-LoC trade during Naveed Babu's questioning, they said.

The NIA had registered a case against unknown people in connection with the trade across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in 2016 and carried out raids at trade facilitation centres in Salamabad in Kashmir's Baramulla district and Chakan-da-bagh in Poonch district of Jammu.

During its probe in the past four years, the NIA had been unable to find the final beneficiary of the money received from traders, the officials said, adding that after Naveed's questioning the agency had got a vital link.

The officials said that some more people were likely to be picked up for questioning in the case as the probe in the DySP's case has brought the four-year-old case to focus.

Recently LoC trade organisation president Tanveer Ahmed Wani was arrested by the NIA and was being questioned.

The cross-LoC trade, started in 2008 as a confidence-building measure between India and Pakistan, was stopped in April last year by the Centre citing "funnelling of illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency".

"The action has been taken after reports that the cross-LoC trade routes are being misused by Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency, etc.," the government had said then.

The officials said that they did not rule out the possibility of arrested police officer Singh having knowledge about the funding pattern through trade as he had been associated with Naveed Babu for long.

Singh was arrested last month along with Naveed, Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Rafi Ahmed Rather and Irfan Shafi Mir, who claims to be an advocate. He is at present in judicial custody.

The officials said that if need be Singh and others could be summoned in connection with the LoC trade case as well.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has stumbled upon "evidence" of funding of terror groups through cross-border trade during its probe into the case of Deputy Superintendent of Police Davinder Singh who was caught escorting militants out of Kashmir Valley, officials said on Sunday.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has stumbled upon "evidence" of funding of terror groups through cross-border trade during its probe into the case of Deputy Superintendent of Police Davinder Singh who was caught escorting militants out of Kashmir Valley, officials said on Sunday. The officials said NIA investigators grilled self-styled commander of the banned Hizbul Mujahideen terror group Syed Naveed Mushtaq Ahmed alias Naveed Babu, who was caught with Singh, about the funding of the organisation and the way they had been in touch with their masters in Pakistan. The agency has stumbled upon "evidence" of terror financing through cross-LoC trade during Naveed Babu's questioning, they said. The NIA had registered a case against unknown people in connection with the trade across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in 2016 and carried out raids at trade facilitation centres in Salamabad in Kashmir's Baramulla district and Chakan-da-bagh in Poonch district of Jammu. During its probe in the past four years, the NIA had been unable to find the final beneficiary of the money received from traders, the officials said, adding that after Naveed's questioning the agency had got a vital link. The officials said that some more people were likely to be picked up for questioning in the case as the probe in the DySP's case has brought the four-year-old case to focus. Recently LoC trade organisation president Tanveer Ahmed Wani was arrested by the NIA and was being questioned. The cross-LoC trade, started in 2008 as a confidence-building measure between India and Pakistan, was stopped in April last year by the Centre citing "funnelling of illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency". "The action has been taken after reports that the cross-LoC trade routes are being misused by Pakistan-based elements for funnelling illegal weapons, narcotics and fake currency, etc.," the government had said then. The officials said that they did not rule out the possibility of arrested police officer Singh having knowledge about the funding pattern through trade as he had been associated with Naveed Babu for long. Singh was arrested last month along with Naveed, Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Rafi Ahmed Rather and Irfan Shafi Mir, who claims to be an advocate. He is at present in judicial custody. The officials said that if need be Singh and others could be summoned in connection with the LoC trade case as well.

NIA finds 'evidence' of terror funding through cross-LoC trade during Jammu officer case probe

After a CCTV footage showing police personnel assaulting students inside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-investigate-delhi-police-on-jamia-library-video-showing-students-being-assaulted-280923">Jamia Millia Islamia library</a> on December 15 last year surfaced on social media, the varsity administration on Sunday said that it did not release the video.

"It has come to our notice that a video with regard to police brutality in Dr Zakir Husain Library of the Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) is in circulation. This is to clarify that the video has not been released by the university," university PRO Ahmad Azeem said in a statement.

In the CCTV footage, policemen in riot gear are seen barging into the library and beating students with batons.

On December 15 last year, Delhi Police had thrown teargas shells inside the campus. The action followed a day of protests where some protesters -- Jamia has maintained these were outsiders and not students -- set buses and vehicles ablaze in some parts of South Delhi.

Azeem also said that Jamia Coordination Committee (JCC), which is spearheading the protest against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Population Register (NPR) and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) outside Gate No. 7 of the university on Maulana Mohammed Ali Jauhar Road is not an official body of the university.

"JCC is actually a Joint Coordination Committee of students and alumni of Jamia Millia Islamia," he said, adding that any communication from JCC should not be taken as communication from the varsity.

"A number of Twitter accounts, Facebook pages and other users on different social media platforms are using Jamia Millia Islamia's name, creating confusion among the people. The university's official Twitter handle is @jmiu_official. Official verified Facebook page is Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi @jmiofficial. Official Instagram account is jamiamilliaislamia_official," the statement said.

"We have also requested Twitter to verify our official handle and will also ask other social media platforms to do the same," it said.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Crime) Praveer Ranjan said the police have taken cognizance of the video and will investigate it.

After a CCTV footage showing police personnel assaulting students inside Jamia Millia Islamia library on December 15 last year surfaced on social media, the varsity administration on Sunday said that it did not release the video.

After a CCTV footage showing police personnel assaulting students inside Jamia Millia Islamia library on December 15 last year surfaced on social media, the varsity administration on Sunday said that it did not release the video. "It has come to our notice that a video with regard to police brutality in Dr Zakir Husain Library of the Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) is in circulation. This is to clarify that the video has not been released by the university," university PRO Ahmad Azeem said in a statement. In the CCTV footage, policemen in riot gear are seen barging into the library and beating students with batons. On December 15 last year, Delhi Police had thrown teargas shells inside the campus. The action followed a day of protests where some protesters -- Jamia has maintained these were outsiders and not students -- set buses and vehicles ablaze in some parts of South Delhi. Azeem also said that Jamia Coordination Committee (JCC), which is spearheading the protest against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Population Register (NPR) and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) outside Gate No. 7 of the university on Maulana Mohammed Ali Jauhar Road is not an official body of the university. "JCC is actually a Joint Coordination Committee of students and alumni of Jamia Millia Islamia," he said, adding that any communication from JCC should not be taken as communication from the varsity. "A number of Twitter accounts, Facebook pages and other users on different social media platforms are using Jamia Millia Islamia's name, creating confusion among the people. The university's official Twitter handle is @jmiu_official. Official verified Facebook page is Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi @jmiofficial. Official Instagram account is jamiamilliaislamia_official," the statement said. "We have also requested Twitter to verify our official handle and will also ask other social media platforms to do the same," it said. Meanwhile, Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Crime) Praveer Ranjan said the police have taken cognizance of the video and will investigate it.

Jamia library video not released by us, says university PRO

President Trump will pay a state visit to India on February 24 and 25 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. He would be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump.

Trump India visit: High Profile Indians to accompany US Prez

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India never lacked resources and skills but the nation needs to work with a comprehensive mindset.

"We have never lacked the resources and skills, just need to work with a comprehensive mindset. All that is needed is to bring this story in front of the world. Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design (UPID) will play a very big role in it," he said.

"It has always been the power of India that some special art and products have been associated with the identity of every region and every district here. This has been our tradition there for centuries. Our businessmen and traders have promoted it worldwide," Modi said after inaugurating 'Kashi Ek Roop Anek'&nbsp;programme here.

The Prime Minister continued said that the UPID helped more than 3500 artisans and weavers from 30 districts in the last 2 years.

"A thousand of artists have also been given tool kits to improve craft-related products... This effort to make the products of Uttar Pradesh reach the foreign markets and make them available on the worldwide online market, the whole country is going to benefit from this," he said.

"When the changing world, changing time, according to the changing demand, make necessary changes in these products too. For this, it is very important to provide training, financial help, new technology and marketing facilities to the people associated with these traditional industries," he said.

Modi said that there is an increase in exports from Uttar Pradesh in the last two years.

"Before 2014, could the weavers and exporters of UP communicate with investors online platforms like this? This was not possible, because there was no such platform... In the last two years, there is an increase in exports from UP. This growth has become a reality due to programmes like One District One Product and help extended to MSMEs," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the anti-dumping duty on the raw material of textiles has been scrapped.

"For decades people associated with textiles had been demanding this. Our government has completed this work. The National Technical Textile Mission has been started. Rs 1,500 crore will be spent on this. Infrastructure related to technical textile will be created," he said.

Modi said the Central government is planning to create investment clearance cell for the ease of investors.

"The government is planning to create investment clearance cell for the ease of investors. This will help investors to take information easily at the Centre and state levels ... The government will take necessary steps to make India $5 trillion economy. We will work together to make India manufacturing powerhouse," he said.

"For the first time, the Taxpayers` Charter is being prepared so that the wealth creators of the country do not face hardship. Tax collection is being faceless. To encourage manufacturing, the tax has been reduced to 15 per cent. Now India is among those few countries where corporate tax is so low," Prime Minister Modi said.

Modi said that a national logistics policy is being prepared for the first time in the country to create a single window e-logistics market, which will strengthen small scale industries.

"The introduction of GST has brought about a wide change in the country`s logistics. Now this change is being strengthened further. A national logistics policy is being prepared for the first time in the country," he said.

"It will lead to the creation of a single-window e-logistics market. This will strengthen small scale industries and help in generating employment," added Modi.

"To empower MSMEs, the import of those products is being reduced which are not better than the products being made in India," he said.

He said the Centre has drawn a blueprint for the development of small and medium industries for the coming five years.

"In the Union Budget, special emphasis has been laid on manufacturing and the ease of doing business. MSMEs and start-ups are the big sources of employment," Prime Minister Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India never lacked resources and skills but the nation needs to work with a comprehensive mindset. "We have never lacked the resources and skills, just need to work with a comprehensive mindset.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India never lacked resources and skills but the nation needs to work with a comprehensive mindset. "We have never lacked the resources and skills, just need to work with a comprehensive mindset. All that is needed is to bring this story in front of the world. Uttar Pradesh Institute of Design (UPID) will play a very big role in it," he said. "It has always been the power of India that some special art and products have been associated with the identity of every region and every district here. This has been our tradition there for centuries. Our businessmen and traders have promoted it worldwide," Modi said after inaugurating 'Kashi Ek Roop Anek' programme here. The Prime Minister continued said that the UPID helped more than 3500 artisans and weavers from 30 districts in the last 2 years. "A thousand of artists have also been given tool kits to improve craft-related products... This effort to make the products of Uttar Pradesh reach the foreign markets and make them available on the worldwide online market, the whole country is going to benefit from this," he said. "When the changing world, changing time, according to the changing demand, make necessary changes in these products too. For this, it is very important to provide training, financial help, new technology and marketing facilities to the people associated with these traditional industries," he said. Modi said that there is an increase in exports from Uttar Pradesh in the last two years. "Before 2014, could the weavers and exporters of UP communicate with investors online platforms like this? This was not possible, because there was no such platform... In the last two years, there is an increase in exports from UP. This growth has become a reality due to programmes like One District One Product and help extended to MSMEs," he said. The Prime Minister said that the anti-dumping duty on the raw material of textiles has been scrapped. "For decades people associated with textiles had been demanding this. Our government has completed this work. The National Technical Textile Mission has been started. Rs 1,500 crore will be spent on this. Infrastructure related to technical textile will be created," he said. Modi said the Central government is planning to create investment clearance cell for the ease of investors. "The government is planning to create investment clearance cell for the ease of investors. This will help investors to take information easily at the Centre and state levels ... The government will take necessary steps to make India $5 trillion economy. We will work together to make India manufacturing powerhouse," he said. "For the first time, the Taxpayers` Charter is being prepared so that the wealth creators of the country do not face hardship. Tax collection is being faceless. To encourage manufacturing, the tax has been reduced to 15 per cent. Now India is among those few countries where corporate tax is so low," Prime Minister Modi said. Modi said that a national logistics policy is being prepared for the first time in the country to create a single window e-logistics market, which will strengthen small scale industries. "The introduction of GST has brought about a wide change in the country`s logistics. Now this change is being strengthened further. A national logistics policy is being prepared for the first time in the country," he said. "It will lead to the creation of a single-window e-logistics market. This will strengthen small scale industries and help in generating employment," added Modi. "To empower MSMEs, the import of those products is being reduced which are not better than the products being made in India," he said. He said the Centre has drawn a blueprint for the development of small and medium industries for the coming five years. "In the Union Budget, special emphasis has been laid on manufacturing and the ease of doing business. MSMEs and start-ups are the big sources of employment," Prime Minister Modi said.

India never lacked resources, skills; needs to work with comprehensive mindset: PM Modi

Striking a conciliatory note, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-work-for-everyone-says-kejriwal-after-taking-oath-as-delhi-cm-280909">Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a> on Sunday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "blessing" for Delhi's progress and said that he "forgave" his rivals for the remarks against him during the campaign, while crediting the people of the city with ushering in a new kind of politics which is development-oriented.

Addressing a gathering at Ramlila Maidan after taking oath for the third time, he vowed to continue working for the fast-paced progress of the national capital, and defended the populist schemes of his government, which struck a cord with the voters, saying he can't charge people for basic amenities.

The new politics is "of schools, hospitals, 24-hour and cheap power supply, water, roads, women's security, corruption-free Delhi and is being discussed all over the country, he said, adding that initiatives like mohalla clinics are being replicated across the country and abroad.

Responding to his critics over freebies, the chief minister said, "They say Kejriwal is making everything free, but I want to say that everything precious in the world is free. The love that a mother has for her child is precious and priceless, the fact that a father stays hungry to afford a good future for his child is priceless. Shravan Kumar served his parents with all his might. Kejriwal is your Shravan Kumar."

"Do I start charging people for education and health? Do I start charging patients for their operations? That is not possible," he said during his 20-minute speech.

Setting his new government's roadmap for the next five years, Kejriwal, who during his previous tenure had several run-ins with the Centre, asserted that he would work in coordination with the BJP-led central government and sought cooperation from political parties, saying he wants to work with everybody.

"I had invited the prime minister for the oath-taking ceremony today, but I think he could not make it because he might have been busy. I want the PM to bless us so that we can work for the development and progress of Delhi."

He said people voted for the AAP, BJP, Congress, and other political parties, but he was the chief minister of all.

"I want to work with everybody. It is obvious that there would be heated exchanges among political parties during elections. We have forgiven our opposition for whatever remarks they made about us. I would also like to request the opposition parties to forget what happened during the elections," Kejriwal said.

Several BJP leaders had made controversial and even incendiary remarks against their rivals during campaigning. MP Parvesh Verma, in a public meeting, had termed Kejriwal a "terrorist".

"I want to say to the two crore people of Delhi, irrespective of whom you voted for in the elections or what party you belong to, you are my family now. You can come to me without any hesitation and I will complete all your work, irrespective of your political affiliation, caste and whether you are rich or poor," he said.

"We have to do a lot of work in Delhi. I cannot do it alone, I need your support in making Delhi the most developed and beautiful city in the world," he told the crowd.

Lauding the people of Delhi for "changing" the politics of the country, Kejriwal asserted that it is everybody's dream to have a developed Delhi and India which can be appreciated all around the world. "This would be possible only through new politics which has been started by you all."

According to party leader Gopal Rai, the AAP will launch a nationwide campaign from February 23 to March 23 to connect with one crore people.

He sought to project his 'Delhi Model' at a national level as he said that several states have started setting up mohalla clinics and following his government's works.

"Kejriwal loves his people and hence this love is free... I should be ashamed if I charge those who take treatment in government hospitals or study in government schools," the chief minister said.

Asserting that in the last five years he has worked for all and there was no step-motherly treatment towards anyone, Kejriwal told the crowd at the Ramlila Maidan, "Your son has taken oath for the third time as Delhi chief minister. This is not my victory but yours."

"In the last five years, we tried to fast pace Delhi's development and in the next five years, we will continue to do the same."

The AAP national convener began his address with 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', 'Inquilab Zindabad' and ended it by singing 'Hum Honge Kamyaab', in which he was joined by the crowd.

The Aam Aadmi Party had planned to keep the swearing-in ceremony "Delhi-specific" and hence did not invite chief ministers of other states or political leaders.

Instead, around 50 people from different walks of life who have contributed to the development of the city during the last five years shared the stage with Kejriwal as special guests during his oath-taking ceremony.

"Delhi's 'nirmatas' (makers) are sitting here... Lakhs of 'nirmatas' run Delhi... Politicians come and go but Delhi's 'nirmata' run Delhi," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

Striking a conciliatory note, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "blessing" for Delhi's progress and said that he "forgave" his rivals for the remarks against him during the campaign, while crediting the people of the city with ushering in a new kind of politics which is development-oriented.

Striking a conciliatory note, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "blessing" for Delhi's progress and said that he "forgave" his rivals for the remarks against him during the campaign, while crediting the people of the city with ushering in a new kind of politics which is development-oriented. Addressing a gathering at Ramlila Maidan after taking oath for the third time, he vowed to continue working for the fast-paced progress of the national capital, and defended the populist schemes of his government, which struck a cord with the voters, saying he can't charge people for basic amenities. The new politics is "of schools, hospitals, 24-hour and cheap power supply, water, roads, women's security, corruption-free Delhi and is being discussed all over the country, he said, adding that initiatives like mohalla clinics are being replicated across the country and abroad. Responding to his critics over freebies, the chief minister said, "They say Kejriwal is making everything free, but I want to say that everything precious in the world is free. The love that a mother has for her child is precious and priceless, the fact that a father stays hungry to afford a good future for his child is priceless. Shravan Kumar served his parents with all his might. Kejriwal is your Shravan Kumar." "Do I start charging people for education and health? Do I start charging patients for their operations? That is not possible," he said during his 20-minute speech. Setting his new government's roadmap for the next five years, Kejriwal, who during his previous tenure had several run-ins with the Centre, asserted that he would work in coordination with the BJP-led central government and sought cooperation from political parties, saying he wants to work with everybody. "I had invited the prime minister for the oath-taking ceremony today, but I think he could not make it because he might have been busy. I want the PM to bless us so that we can work for the development and progress of Delhi." He said people voted for the AAP, BJP, Congress, and other political parties, but he was the chief minister of all. "I want to work with everybody. It is obvious that there would be heated exchanges among political parties during elections. We have forgiven our opposition for whatever remarks they made about us. I would also like to request the opposition parties to forget what happened during the elections," Kejriwal said. Several BJP leaders had made controversial and even incendiary remarks against their rivals during campaigning. MP Parvesh Verma, in a public meeting, had termed Kejriwal a "terrorist". "I want to say to the two crore people of Delhi, irrespective of whom you voted for in the elections or what party you belong to, you are my family now. You can come to me without any hesitation and I will complete all your work, irrespective of your political affiliation, caste and whether you are rich or poor," he said. "We have to do a lot of work in Delhi. I cannot do it alone, I need your support in making Delhi the most developed and beautiful city in the world," he told the crowd. Lauding the people of Delhi for "changing" the politics of the country, Kejriwal asserted that it is everybody's dream to have a developed Delhi and India which can be appreciated all around the world. "This would be possible only through new politics which has been started by you all." According to party leader Gopal Rai, the AAP will launch a nationwide campaign from February 23 to March 23 to connect with one crore people. He sought to project his 'Delhi Model' at a national level as he said that several states have started setting up mohalla clinics and following his government's works. "Kejriwal loves his people and hence this love is free... I should be ashamed if I charge those who take treatment in government hospitals or study in government schools," the chief minister said. Asserting that in the last five years he has worked for all and there was no step-motherly treatment towards anyone, Kejriwal told the crowd at the Ramlila Maidan, "Your son has taken oath for the third time as Delhi chief minister. This is not my victory but yours." "In the last five years, we tried to fast pace Delhi's development and in the next five years, we will continue to do the same." The AAP national convener began his address with 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', 'Inquilab Zindabad' and ended it by singing 'Hum Honge Kamyaab', in which he was joined by the crowd. The Aam Aadmi Party had planned to keep the swearing-in ceremony "Delhi-specific" and hence did not invite chief ministers of other states or political leaders. Instead, around 50 people from different walks of life who have contributed to the development of the city during the last five years shared the stage with Kejriwal as special guests during his oath-taking ceremony. "Delhi's 'nirmatas' (makers) are sitting here... Lakhs of 'nirmatas' run Delhi... Politicians come and go but Delhi's 'nirmata' run Delhi," Kejriwal said.

Want to work with Centre for smooth governance, says Kejriwal at Ramlila Maidan

In further relief to Kerala, a student treated for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-could-damage-global-growth-in-2020-imf-280976">novel coronavirus</a> in the state was discharged on Sunday after two consecutive test results returned negative, becoming India's second patient to recover from the infection, health authorities said.

The patient from Kasaragod, one of the three positive cases of coronavirus detected in the country on their return from China, would, however, remain under home quarantine for ten days, the state health department said.

"Two consecutive results of the patient came negative and was then discharged today morning. The patient will have to remain under home quarantine for ten more days," a senior health official told PTI.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-confirms-first-coronavirus-death-on-island-cases-at-20-280968">Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20</a>

More than 2,000 people are still under observation for the novel coronavirus in the state, which had accounted for all three positive cases in the country.

Earlier on Thursday, a student from Alappuzha was discharged after his two consecutive samples sent for testing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune turned out to be negative.

India's first coronavirus case, a woman medico from Thrissur, is awaiting test results from Pune NIV after samples screened at the Alappuzha centre of the institute had returned negative last week.

"Now, we are waiting for the test result of the student admitted to Thrissur Medical College Hospital. Once the negative result is received, we can proceed to discharge," the official said.

Both the discharged students, studying in a university in Wuhan, the epicentre of the deadly virus that has claimed over 1,600 lives in China, had earlier tested positive for the infection and were treated in isolation wards set up in medical college hospitals in Alappuzha and Kasaragod.

Of the 2,210 people under surveillance in various districts, as many as 16 were in isolation wards in hospitals and the remaining 2,194 are in-home quarantine, Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja said in a release on Sunday.

Of the 415 samples sent for testing at the NIV in Pune, a total of 396 turned out to be negative and the results of the remaining were awaited, the release, quoting the Minister, said.

Earlier, after the three students tested positive, the government had declared the coronavirus as a state calamity but withdrew it after effective quarantine and no fresh cases were reported.&nbsp;

In further relief to Kerala, a student treated for the novel coronavirus in the state was discharged on Sunday after two consecutive test results returned negative, becoming India's second patient to recover from the infection, health authorities said.

In further relief to Kerala, a student treated for the novel coronavirus in the state was discharged on Sunday after two consecutive test results returned negative, becoming India's second patient to recover from the infection, health authorities said. The patient from Kasaragod, one of the three positive cases of coronavirus detected in the country on their return from China, would, however, remain under home quarantine for ten days, the state health department said. "Two consecutive results of the patient came negative and was then discharged today morning. The patient will have to remain under home quarantine for ten more days," a senior health official told PTI. Also read: Taiwan's confirms first coronavirus death on island, cases at 20 More than 2,000 people are still under observation for the novel coronavirus in the state, which had accounted for all three positive cases in the country. Earlier on Thursday, a student from Alappuzha was discharged after his two consecutive samples sent for testing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune turned out to be negative. India's first coronavirus case, a woman medico from Thrissur, is awaiting test results from Pune NIV after samples screened at the Alappuzha centre of the institute had returned negative last week. "Now, we are waiting for the test result of the student admitted to Thrissur Medical College Hospital. Once the negative result is received, we can proceed to discharge," the official said. Both the discharged students, studying in a university in Wuhan, the epicentre of the deadly virus that has claimed over 1,600 lives in China, had earlier tested positive for the infection and were treated in isolation wards set up in medical college hospitals in Alappuzha and Kasaragod. Of the 2,210 people under surveillance in various districts, as many as 16 were in isolation wards in hospitals and the remaining 2,194 are in-home quarantine, Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja said in a release on Sunday. Of the 415 samples sent for testing at the NIV in Pune, a total of 396 turned out to be negative and the results of the remaining were awaited, the release, quoting the Minister, said. Earlier, after the three students tested positive, the government had declared the coronavirus as a state calamity but withdrew it after effective quarantine and no fresh cases were reported.

Second coronavirus patient discharged in Kerala

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-defends-chinas-handling-of-coronavirus-280873">WHO defends China's handling of coronavirus as death toll rises to 1,665</a>

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="552c1559-88a4-4b3a-a50b-4e6c91bf3994" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_13.jpg" />

The death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in mainland China has reached 1,665 as of the end of Saturday, up by 142 from the previous day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-rejects-trumps-claim-that-ukraine-is-corrupt-280875">Ukrainian President Zelensky rejects Trump's claim that Ukraine is corrupt</a>

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b74c9884-82ba-4808-9737-29c04e7be4d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_10.jpg" />

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskiy said he was very open with Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-countries-issue-travel-and-health-advisories-to-citizens-280876">COVID-19: Countries issue travel and health advisories to citizens</a>

<img alt="India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="caea1f30-588a-449f-b250-bceeb036ce52" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_10.jpg" />

India has advised its citizens to refrain from travelling to China. The Indian government has said that anyone with a travel history in China since January 15, 2020 could be quarantined.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-meets-pompeo-pelosi-on-sidelines-of-munich-security-conference-280865">Jaishankar meets Pompeo, Pelosi on sidelines of Munich Security Conference</a>

<img alt="S Jaishankar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a38c309-febb-4b38-a202-78c72a9b5dd5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EQz1BejWsAIdcAu.jpg" />

"Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter.

WHO defends China's handling of coronavirus as death toll rises to 1,665 The death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in mainland China has reached 1,665 as of the end of Saturday, up by 142 from the previous day.

WHO defends China's handling of coronavirus as death toll rises to 1,665 The death toll from a coronavirus outbreak in mainland China has reached 1,665 as of the end of Saturday, up by 142 from the previous day. Ukrainian President Zelensky rejects Trump's claim that Ukraine is corrupt Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskiy said he was very open with Trump. COVID-19: Countries issue travel and health advisories to citizens India has advised its citizens to refrain from travelling to China. The Indian government has said that anyone with a travel history in China since January 15, 2020 could be quarantined. Jaishankar meets Pompeo, Pelosi on sidelines of Munich Security Conference "Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter.

Morning News Brief: WHO defends China, coronavirus death toll, and more!

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps.

But Google seems to disagree.

If you are using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-map-of-india-released-with-union-territories-of-jammu-and-kashmir-ladakh-259556">Google maps in India</a>, you'll see that the whole of Kashmir is marked as Indian territory. But the moment you leave the country, your map will also change.

For the global audience, Kashmir is marked with a dotted line which supposed to indicate that Kashmir is a disputed region.

As for India's position, it has always been clear, Kashmir is an integral part of the country.

But<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/google-maps-adds-navigation-mode-for-two-wheelers-in-india-25961"> Google's dual maps </a>cut directly at the root of India's territorial integrity.

There is no one yardstick that Google uses to draw maps. According to some Google employees, they take into account the opinion of diplomats and even company executives.

On multiple ocassions, Google had changed its border depictions after facing a backlash.

The move creates a lot of confusion for its users.

Take the example of a Russian citizen who is using Google maps in Moscow. For him, Kashmir will look like a disputed region on the map.

But the Russian government actually recognises Kashmir as an integral part of India.

Then there is also the issue of goodwill.

In January 2020, 98 per cent of all internet users in India were using Google. In the last financial year, their profits from India were up 16 per cent.

Unlike in other countries, Google has had a hassle-free experience in India.

But instead, Google has directed its goodwill towards China.

A country that has essentially banned the service within its borders.

China censors Google's search engine and eliminates all anti-government activity.

And yet, all google services including Google maps stay within the limits of what the Chinese government says.

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps. But Google seems to disagree.

The world we live in is based on consensus. The world community agrees on certain fundamental things like history, or in this case, maps. But Google seems to disagree. If you are using Google maps in India, you'll see that the whole of Kashmir is marked as Indian territory. But the moment you leave the country, your map will also change. For the global audience, Kashmir is marked with a dotted line which supposed to indicate that Kashmir is a disputed region. As for India's position, it has always been clear, Kashmir is an integral part of the country. But Google's dual maps cut directly at the root of India's territorial integrity. There is no one yardstick that Google uses to draw maps. According to some Google employees, they take into account the opinion of diplomats and even company executives. On multiple ocassions, Google had changed its border depictions after facing a backlash. The move creates a lot of confusion for its users. Take the example of a Russian citizen who is using Google maps in Moscow. For him, Kashmir will look like a disputed region on the map. But the Russian government actually recognises Kashmir as an integral part of India. Then there is also the issue of goodwill. In January 2020, 98 per cent of all internet users in India were using Google. In the last financial year, their profits from India were up 16 per cent. Unlike in other countries, Google has had a hassle-free experience in India. But instead, Google has directed its goodwill towards China. A country that has essentially banned the service within its borders. China censors Google's search engine and eliminates all anti-government activity. And yet, all google services including Google maps stay within the limits of what the Chinese government says.

Google Maps marks Kashmir's 'disputed' when seen from outside India

India may face a shortage of antibiotics, vitamins, and even diabetes medicines if no alternative source of raw material for these drugs is found soon.

Govt working on altenate plan as India may run out of prominent drugs

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal took oath as the chief minister of Delhi for the third consecutive time on Sunday (February 16) at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Maidan. Besides Kejriwal, all the six ministers in the previous government - Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Imran Hussain and Rajendra Gautam - also took oath as ministers in Delhi government.

Arvind Kejriwal takes oath as Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time

The 49-second clip - released by Jamia Coordination Committee on social media on Saturday. A two-month-old video has emerged that shows several policemen thrashing students at a reading hall of Delhi's Jamia Millia University.

Jamia Alumni Releases Video Of Cops Attacking Students In Library

The 'Little Mufflerman', the young boy who took social media by storm as the mini version of Arvind Kejriwal, was the centre of attraction at the AAP chief's swearing-in as Delhi Chief Minister on Sunday.

The 'Little Mufflerman', the young boy who took social media by storm as the mini version of Arvind Kejriwal, was the centre of attraction at the AAP chief's swearing-in as Delhi Chief Minister on Sunday. Many people, including party lawmaker Bhagwant Mann, were seen shaking hands with the boy and taking pictures with him as Kejriwal took oath as the national capital's chief minister for the third time. The young boy was officially invited by AAP to take part in the oath-taking ceremony. The 'Little Mufflerman' had taken Twitter by storm on counting day as the AAP emerged victorious in the Delhi Assembly elections. Also Read: 'Suit up': AAP invites baby 'mufflerman' to Kejriwal's swearing-in ceremony AAP's Twitter handle had shared the image of the young boy dressed up as Chief Minister Kejriwal, with a cap bearing the party's symbol, a v-neck maroon sweater and of course a muffler wrapped around his head. The boy also wore spectacles similar to the AAP chief's and even sported a fake moustache as he pointed towards the sky. Kejriwal had earned the moniker of 'Mufflerman' for his iconic way of dressing in the winter season. Around 50 people from different walks of life who are responsible for 'Delhi Nirman' shared the stage with Kejriwal during his swearing-in ceremony. These people included teachers, bus marshalls, sanitation workers and families of firefighters. Watch: Delhi Election 2020: Kejriwal set for his third term as CM? Among the prominent invitees include-Ratan Jamshed Batliboi, the architect of the famous Signature Bridge. Dalbir Singh, a farmer. Sumit Nagal, an international Tennis Player. Sumit is a class 12th student and he has studied in a Delhi Govt School. Laxman Chaudhry, an auto driver by profession. Manu Gulati, a teacher, who contributed to making Delhi better. "They all are architects of Delhi Governance Model", AAP had said. The AAP nearly repeated its 2015 performance in the elections, sweeping the Assembly polls winning 62 seats in the 70-member Assembly, in the face of a high-voltage campaign by the BJP, which fielded a battery of Union Ministers and Chief Ministers in its electioneering spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah.

'Mini Mufflerman' cynosure of all eyes at Kejriwal's swearing-in ceremony

After a video, purportedly showing police personnel assaulting students at the Jamia Millia Islamia University library on the night of December 15 amid anti-citizenship law protests in the area, surfaced on social media, Delhi Police said it will investigate the matter.

After a video, purportedly showing police personnel assaulting students at the Jamia Millia Islamia University library on the night of December 15 amid anti-citizenship law protests in the area, surfaced on social media, Delhi Police said it will investigate the matter. "We have taken cognizance of the latest video (of December 15) of Jamia Millia Islamia University (library) which has surfaced now, we will investigate it," Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Crime) Praveer Ranjan said while speaking to media persons here. The video shows policemen in riot gear can be seen barging into the library and beating students with batons. Watch: Jamia, Delhi: Second shooting on Anti-CAA protesters in less than a week The students studying in the reading hall of the campus were also pushed outside the hall. On December 15, the Delhi Police had thrown teargas shells inside the campus. The action followed a day of protests where some protesters - Jamia has maintained these were outsiders and not students - set buses and vehicles on fire in some parts of South Delhi.

'We will investigate': Delhi Police on Jamia library video showing students being assaulted

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday unveiled the 63-ft tall statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya while inaugurating the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre in Padao on the Varanasi-Chandauli border.

The `pancha loha` statue is the tallest statue of the BJP ideologue in the country.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the 63 feet statue of former Bhartiya Jana Sangh leader Deendayal Upadhyaya in Varanasi. <a href="https://t.co/RGnElRbfqB">pic.twitter.com/RGnElRbfqB</a>
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Over 200 artisans have worked for almost a year in order to complete the structure. He also inaugurated the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre.

The Prime Minister, who arrived in his parliamentary constituency on Sunday morning, also inaugurated over 30 projects, including a 430-bed super speciality government hospital and a 74-bed psychiatry hospital at Benaras Hindu University, and an exhibition `Kashi Ek Roop Anek`, besides flagging off IRCTC`s Maha Kaal Express through video link.&nbsp;

The train will connect the three Jyotirling pilgrim centres of Varanasi, Ujjain and Omkareshwar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday unveiled the 63-ft tall statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya while inaugurating the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre in Padao on the Varanasi-Chandauli border.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday unveiled the 63-ft tall statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya while inaugurating the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre in Padao on the Varanasi-Chandauli border. The `pancha loha` statue is the tallest statue of the BJP ideologue in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the 63 feet statue of former Bhartiya Jana Sangh leader Deendayal Upadhyaya in Varanasi. pic.twitter.com/RGnElRbfqB — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 16, 2020 × Over 200 artisans have worked for almost a year in order to complete the structure. He also inaugurated the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre. The Prime Minister, who arrived in his parliamentary constituency on Sunday morning, also inaugurated over 30 projects, including a 430-bed super speciality government hospital and a 74-bed psychiatry hospital at Benaras Hindu University, and an exhibition `Kashi Ek Roop Anek`, besides flagging off IRCTC`s Maha Kaal Express through video link. The train will connect the three Jyotirling pilgrim centres of Varanasi, Ujjain and Omkareshwar. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi unveils tallest Deendayal Upadhyaya statue in Varanasi

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that he will work for everyone, be it from any party, any religion, caste or strata of society.

''Elections are over, it doesn't matter who you voted for, now all Delhiites are my family. I will work for everyone, be it from any party, any religion, caste or strata of society,'' he said after taking oath as Delhi chief minister for the third consecutive term.

Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party swept the Delhi polls winning 62 out of 70 seats in Delhi Assembly.&nbsp;

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'Little Mufflerman', the boy dressed as Arvind Kejriwal whose images went viral on counting day(Feb 11), also present at the oath-taking ceremony. He was officially invited by AAP <a href="https://t.co/k8E9Q8Um1M">pic.twitter.com/k8E9Q8Um1M</a>
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''In the last five years, our only effort has been to bring happiness and relief to every Delhiite. This is not my win, this is the victory of every Delhiite, of every family,'' he added.

The Delhi chief minister said he invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the oath taking ceremony.&nbsp;

''I had sent an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for this event. He could not come maybe he is busy at some other event. But through this platform, I want to take blessings from PMji and the central government to develop Delhi andtake it forward,'' he said.

Kejriwal also hit out at the critics who accused him of freebies and said, ''some people say Kejriwal is giving everything for free. Nature has ensured every valuable thing in the world is free, be it Mother's love, father's blessings or Shravan Kumar's dedication. So, Kejriwal loves his people and hence this love is free'', he further said.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that he will work for everyone, be it from any party, any religion, caste or strata of society. ''Elections are over, it doesn't matter who you voted for, now all Delhiites are my family.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that he will work for everyone, be it from any party, any religion, caste or strata of society. ''Elections are over, it doesn't matter who you voted for, now all Delhiites are my family. I will work for everyone, be it from any party, any religion, caste or strata of society,'' he said after taking oath as Delhi chief minister for the third consecutive term. Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party swept the Delhi polls winning 62 out of 70 seats in Delhi Assembly. 'Little Mufflerman', the boy dressed as Arvind Kejriwal whose images went viral on counting day(Feb 11), also present at the oath-taking ceremony. He was officially invited by AAP pic.twitter.com/k8E9Q8Um1M — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2020 × ''In the last five years, our only effort has been to bring happiness and relief to every Delhiite. This is not my win, this is the victory of every Delhiite, of every family,'' he added. The Delhi chief minister said he invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the oath taking ceremony. ''I had sent an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for this event. He could not come maybe he is busy at some other event. But through this platform, I want to take blessings from PMji and the central government to develop Delhi andtake it forward,'' he said. Kejriwal also hit out at the critics who accused him of freebies and said, ''some people say Kejriwal is giving everything for free. Nature has ensured every valuable thing in the world is free, be it Mother's love, father's blessings or Shravan Kumar's dedication. So, Kejriwal loves his people and hence this love is free'', he further said.

I will work for everyone, says Kejriwal after taking oath as Delhi CM 

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday, Jaishankar said "What has led to weaker multilateralism? We have seen in the last 20 years an economic rebalancing in the world. It was a question of time before the economic rebalancing translated into political rebalancing... If there is going to be political rebalancing then we are going to be in a transition era," he said

US Senator Lindsey Graham tried to raise the Kashmir issue at the conference and said, “When it comes to Kashmir, I don’t know how it ends, but let us make sure, two democracies will end it differently.“

Jaishankar replied, “don’t worry senator. One democracy will settle it, and you know which one!“

The minister stressed that the United Nations is far less credible today than it has been through its history, "which is not surprising because when you think about it, there are not too many things which are 75 years old and still as good as they were"."Clearly, there is something that needs to be done there," Jaishankar added. 
&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said nationalistic policies have been electorally validated in the US and China and economic rebalancing is becoming political rebalancing. Speaking during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday, Jaishankar said "What has led to weaker multilateralism? We have seen in the last 20 years an economic rebalancing in the world. It was a question of time before the economic rebalancing translated into political rebalancing... If there is going to be political rebalancing then we are going to be in a transition era," he said US Senator Lindsey Graham tried to raise the Kashmir issue at the conference and said, “When it comes to Kashmir, I don’t know how it ends, but let us make sure, two democracies will end it differently.“ Jaishankar replied, “don’t worry senator. One democracy will settle it, and you know which one!“ The minister stressed that the United Nations is far less credible today than it has been through its history, "which is not surprising because when you think about it, there are not too many things which are 75 years old and still as good as they were"."Clearly, there is something that needs to be done there," Jaishankar added.

World more nationalistic today, says External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-supreme-court-rejects-convict-vinay-sharmas-petition-against-rejecting-mercy-plea-280455">Supreme Court</a>, in its order, did not find any grounds for considering the petition filed by one of the death row convicts, Vinay Sharma, seeking a review of the rejection of his mercy petition`s dismissal by the President of India.

"We do not find any ground for exercise of judicial review of the order of the President of India rejecting the petitioner's mercy petition and this writ petition is liable to be dismissed. The writ petition is dismissed accordingly," the three-judge bench of the Apex Court, headed by Justice R Banumathi said, in its order on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-supreme-court-rejects-convict-vinay-sharmas-petition-against-rejecting-mercy-plea-280455">Nirbhaya rape case: Supreme Court reserves verdict on convict Vinay's petition against mercy plea rejection</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-supreme-court-rejects-convict-vinay-sharmas-petition-against-rejecting-mercy-plea-280455">Apex Court</a> did not consider any ground and contention as raised by the petitioner, one of the death row convicts, Vinay Sharma, in the brutal December 16, 2012, gangrape-cum-murder case.

The apex court did not consider the contentions of Vinay Sharma that his mercy petition was rejected as relevant materials were not placed before the President of India and were kept out of consideration.

The Apex Court also refused to consider the medical status report and the mental health of the petitioner, as the ground for rejection of the mercy petition by the President of India.Solitary confinement ground, as claimed by the petitioner for the commutation of his death sentence, was also rejected by the apex court.

The Supreme Court also did not consider that a biased order was passed on irrelevant considerations against Vinay Sharma and thereby the court held that the rejection of mercy petition by the President of India was done rightly.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Nirbhaya Case: Justice delayed is justice denied

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nirbhaya-case-justice-delayed-is-justice-denied-280653/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The apex court also dismissed the claim by the petitioner, that the President of India, had rejected his mercy petition as there was non-application of mind by him.Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-supreme-court-rejects-convict-vinay-sharmas-petition-against-rejecting-mercy-plea-280455">Nirbhaya gang-rape case</a>, had filed a writ petition before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nirbhaya-case-justice-delayed-is-justice-denied-280653">Supreme Court</a> challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President of India.

On February 1, President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/polling-booths-pop-up-all-over-delhi-politicians-and-bureaucrats-rush-in-to-cast-their-ballots-279389">Ram Nath Kovind</a> had rejected the mercy petition of Vinay Sharma in the case.

The mercy petitions of convicts Akshay Thakur and Mukesh Singh have also been rejected.The Delhi High Court on February 5 granted a week's time to the four convicts to avail of all legal remedies available to them and said that the convicts cannot be hanged separately since they were convicted for the same crime.

A Delhi Court had issued a death warrant against the four convicts Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta, and Mukesh Singh on January 7 and they were scheduled to be executed on January 22 at Tihar Jail.

Later, the execution was suspended indefinitely by a Delhi court.One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh, had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court, in its order, did not find any grounds for considering the petition filed by one of the death row convicts, Vinay Sharma, seeking a review of the rejection of his mercy petition`s dismissal by the President of India.

The Supreme Court, in its order, did not find any grounds for considering the petition filed by one of the death row convicts, Vinay Sharma, seeking a review of the rejection of his mercy petition`s dismissal by the President of India. "We do not find any ground for exercise of judicial review of the order of the President of India rejecting the petitioner's mercy petition and this writ petition is liable to be dismissed. The writ petition is dismissed accordingly," the three-judge bench of the Apex Court, headed by Justice R Banumathi said, in its order on Friday. Also read: Nirbhaya rape case: Supreme Court reserves verdict on convict Vinay's petition against mercy plea rejection The Apex Court did not consider any ground and contention as raised by the petitioner, one of the death row convicts, Vinay Sharma, in the brutal December 16, 2012, gangrape-cum-murder case. The apex court did not consider the contentions of Vinay Sharma that his mercy petition was rejected as relevant materials were not placed before the President of India and were kept out of consideration. The Apex Court also refused to consider the medical status report and the mental health of the petitioner, as the ground for rejection of the mercy petition by the President of India.Solitary confinement ground, as claimed by the petitioner for the commutation of his death sentence, was also rejected by the apex court. The Supreme Court also did not consider that a biased order was passed on irrelevant considerations against Vinay Sharma and thereby the court held that the rejection of mercy petition by the President of India was done rightly. Watch: Gravitas: Nirbhaya Case: Justice delayed is justice denied The apex court also dismissed the claim by the petitioner, that the President of India, had rejected his mercy petition as there was non-application of mind by him.Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang-rape case, had filed a writ petition before the Supreme Court challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President of India. On February 1, President Ram Nath Kovind had rejected the mercy petition of Vinay Sharma in the case. The mercy petitions of convicts Akshay Thakur and Mukesh Singh have also been rejected.The Delhi High Court on February 5 granted a week's time to the four convicts to avail of all legal remedies available to them and said that the convicts cannot be hanged separately since they were convicted for the same crime. A Delhi Court had issued a death warrant against the four convicts Vinay Sharma, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta, and Mukesh Singh on January 7 and they were scheduled to be executed on January 22 at Tihar Jail. Later, the execution was suspended indefinitely by a Delhi court.One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh, had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.

Supreme Court finds no ground to consider petition filed by Nirbhaya convict over rejection of mercy plea

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

India's reaction came a day after Erdogan,&nbsp;who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

He was addressing the joint session of parliament lauding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/news-update-breaking-Turkey-President-Erdogan-rakes-up-Kashmir-issue-in-Pakistan-Parliament">"Turkey-Pakistan brotherhood"</a>.&nbsp;

Erdogan said that he will support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue during his Pakistan trip.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Erdogan provokes India again, backs Kashmir separatism

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The Turkey president said his country would continue to "raise its voice" in "Indian occupied Kashmir" stating,&nbsp;"How can we forget those from Pakistan who prayed for Turkey. Our friendship is not based on vested interests but on love".

"The Kashmir issue can be resolved not through conflict or oppression but on the basis of justice and fairness. Such a solution will serve the interests of all parties concerned. Turkey will continue to stand by justice, peace and dialogue in the resolution of the Kashmir issue," he said.&nbsp;

Registering a strong response against Ankara's action, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Turkey must develop a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/turkey-to-oppose-pakistan-blacklisting-at-anti-terrorism-finance-meet-280745">proper understanding of facts</a> including threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

Erdogan while addressing a joint session of Pakistan's parliament vowed to support Pakistan's stand on Kashmir.

Ankara even declared its backing for Pakistan's efforts to come out of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist.

Not only that, Erdogan's statement came on the first anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 Indian CRPF personnel were killed.&nbsp;

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

India criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked him to not to interfere in India’s internal affairs and to develop a proper understanding of facts including the threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan. India's reaction came a day after Erdogan, who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, raked up the Kashmir issue. He was addressing the joint session of parliament lauding "Turkey-Pakistan brotherhood". Erdogan said that he will support Pakistan on the Kashmir issue during his Pakistan trip. Watch | Erdogan provokes India again, backs Kashmir separatism × The Turkey president said his country would continue to "raise its voice" in "Indian occupied Kashmir" stating, "How can we forget those from Pakistan who prayed for Turkey. Our friendship is not based on vested interests but on love". "The Kashmir issue can be resolved not through conflict or oppression but on the basis of justice and fairness. Such a solution will serve the interests of all parties concerned. Turkey will continue to stand by justice, peace and dialogue in the resolution of the Kashmir issue," he said. Registering a strong response against Ankara's action, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Turkey must develop a proper understanding of facts including threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Erdogan while addressing a joint session of Pakistan's parliament vowed to support Pakistan's stand on Kashmir. Ankara even declared its backing for Pakistan's efforts to come out of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist. Not only that, Erdogan's statement came on the first anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 Indian CRPF personnel were killed.

India takes strong exception to Turkish President Erdogan's comments on Kashmir 

Facing criticism over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/decoding-indian-economic-slowdown-slow-consumption-falling-income-low-wages-270075">economic slowdown</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mahagatbandhan-isnt-a-challenge-for-bharatiya-janata-party-rajnath-singh-216271">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/bjp-president-jp-nadda-must-show-ingenuity-to-make-his-mark-276653">JP Nadda</a> has directed party leaders to reach out to experts and masses to create awareness on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2020-21-allocations-for-environment-and-climate-change-277988">Union Budget</a>'s pro-people policies announced by Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/nepal/nepal-invites-pm-narendra-modi-for-sagarmatha-dialogue-276287">Narendra Modi</a> government.

BJP has directed all States to conduct State-level workshops to 'discuss and publicise'&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2020-key-highlights-100-more-airports-to-be-developed-by-2024-under-udaan-scheme-278042">Union Budget 2020</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2020-key-highlights-100-more-airports-to-be-developed-by-2024-under-udaan-scheme-278042">Budget 2020 key highlights</a>

These workshops at the State level are to be organised between February 16 to February 23 at all State headquarters to create awareness regarding the people-friendly policies of the Modi government.

The Opposition has been reacting sharply to the Budget stating that it does not address problems of unemployment and slow growth.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has also directed that speakers from the finance domain be invited to the workshops besides ensuring participation of business and professional organisations.

Directions have been sent out to organise press conferences after the workshops in which one speaker from the Centre and one from the State will participate.

The party has designated national general secretaries <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-all-set-to-return-to-power-says-ram-madhav-202658">Ram Madhav</a> and P Murlidhar Rao as coordinators of these workshops.

"Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2020-21-allocations-for-environment-and-climate-change-277988">Nirmala Sitharaman</a> presented the Budget in the Parliament under the visionary and most popular leader of the world Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister concluded that new reforms will help to accelerate the economy, financially empower every citizen and strengthen foundation of the economy in this decade," reads the communique sent out to the States.

The party has also decided to organise intellectual meets on the Budget at the district level as well.

Social media office-bearers have been asked to participate and widely publicise the Budget provisions.

Facing criticism over the economic slowdown, Bharatiya Janata Party chief JP Nadda has directed party leaders to reach out to experts and masses to create awareness on the Union Budget's pro-people policies announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi government.

Facing criticism over the economic slowdown, Bharatiya Janata Party chief JP Nadda has directed party leaders to reach out to experts and masses to create awareness on the Union Budget's pro-people policies announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi government. BJP has directed all States to conduct State-level workshops to 'discuss and publicise' the Union Budget 2020. Also read: Budget 2020 key highlights These workshops at the State level are to be organised between February 16 to February 23 at all State headquarters to create awareness regarding the people-friendly policies of the Modi government. The Opposition has been reacting sharply to the Budget stating that it does not address problems of unemployment and slow growth. The Bharatiya Janata Party has also directed that speakers from the finance domain be invited to the workshops besides ensuring participation of business and professional organisations. Directions have been sent out to organise press conferences after the workshops in which one speaker from the Centre and one from the State will participate. The party has designated national general secretaries Ram Madhav and P Murlidhar Rao as coordinators of these workshops. "Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget in the Parliament under the visionary and most popular leader of the world Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister concluded that new reforms will help to accelerate the economy, financially empower every citizen and strengthen foundation of the economy in this decade," reads the communique sent out to the States. The party has also decided to organise intellectual meets on the Budget at the district level as well. Social media office-bearers have been asked to participate and widely publicise the Budget provisions.

After Citizenship Amendment Act, BJP to reach out to masses to publicise 'pro-people Budget'

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany.

During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.&nbsp;

"Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter.

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Good to see <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSC2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSC2020</a>. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>’s visit. <a href="https://t.co/msiifvLC0F">pic.twitter.com/msiifvLC0F</a>
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Nancy Pelosi's&nbsp;&nbsp;"consistent support" to India-US ties has always been a great source of strength, sais Jaishankar as he also met the US speaker in Germany.

The Munich Security Conference, being held here from February 14-16, is the world's leading forum for debate on international security policy.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will pay a state visit to India on February 24 and 25 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, it was announced this week.

In addition to New Delhi, Trump will also visit Ahmedabad to address a joint public meeting with Modi at a newly-built stadium.

Trump on his maiden trip to India will also meet the country's top business leaders in New Delhi on February 25, in a bid to push for deeper trade and business relations between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany. During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany. During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. "Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter. Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump’s visit. pic.twitter.com/msiifvLC0F — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 15, 2020 × Nancy Pelosi's "consistent support" to India-US ties has always been a great source of strength, sais Jaishankar as he also met the US speaker in Germany. The Munich Security Conference, being held here from February 14-16, is the world's leading forum for debate on international security policy. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will pay a state visit to India on February 24 and 25 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, it was announced this week. In addition to New Delhi, Trump will also visit Ahmedabad to address a joint public meeting with Modi at a newly-built stadium. Trump on his maiden trip to India will also meet the country's top business leaders in New Delhi on February 25, in a bid to push for deeper trade and business relations between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar meets Pompeo, Pelosi on sidelines of Munich Security Conference

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