A court here on Saturday summoned Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to appear before it in a defamation case filed by Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor.

The Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) took cognisance of the complaint and asked the minister to appear before it on May 2, Tharoor's lawyer told the media.

Tharoor had in December 2018 filed a defamation case against Prasad for allegedly making derogatory remarks in connection with his wife Sunanda Pushkar's death.

Tharoor had earlier sent a legal notice to Prasad, the Minister for Law Justice and IT, seeking an "unconditional apology" for calling him a "murder accused."

Tharoor has stated that the investigation in the Pushkar case had been completed and the Delhi Police had filed a final report before the Additional

Metropolitan Magistrate court, in which he was charge-sheeted under Sections 308 and 498 A of the Indian Penal Code.

"The final report does not state that the death of the deceased was a murder," Tharoor had said

The Thiruvananthapuram MP and former Union minister said that on October 28 around 5.38 am, Prasad had posted a 2 minute 18 seconds video clip of his press conference, along with certain "false, untrue, malicious and highly defamatory statements on Twitter."

Tharoor alleged that the video had been posted to defame him and thereby to "spread an untrue, false and scandalous imputation" against him that he is a "murder case" accused and that he had been charge-sheeted.

This was intended to "harm" his reputation and "malign" him before the public "by intentionally giving such false and untrue statements, the colour of his office, he had said.

"It is evident that the impugned post/tweet and the contents are solely intended to malign and tarnish the reputation of the complainant," he stated.

Tharoor had sent a lawyer's notice to Prasad, seeking an unconditional apology within 48 hours of the receipt of the notice, for levelling the allegations and to delete and remove the video clip of his press conference, along with a defamatory statement on Twitter.

In his reply to the notice, Prasad had defended his tweet, saying it was not defamatory.

According to the complainant, the offence against Prasad constitutes the commission of offence defined under Section 499 of the IPC (defamation), which is punishable Under sections 500 (punishment for defamation).

Tharoor had sought appropriate action against Prasad.

A court here on Saturday summoned Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to appear before it in a defamation case filed by Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor.

A court here on Saturday summoned Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to appear before it in a defamation case filed by Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor. The Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) took cognisance of the complaint and asked the minister to appear before it on May 2, Tharoor's lawyer told the media. Tharoor had in December 2018 filed a defamation case against Prasad for allegedly making derogatory remarks in connection with his wife Sunanda Pushkar's death. Tharoor had earlier sent a legal notice to Prasad, the Minister for Law Justice and IT, seeking an "unconditional apology" for calling him a "murder accused." Tharoor has stated that the investigation in the Pushkar case had been completed and the Delhi Police had filed a final report before the Additional Metropolitan Magistrate court, in which he was charge-sheeted under Sections 308 and 498 A of the Indian Penal Code. "The final report does not state that the death of the deceased was a murder," Tharoor had said The Thiruvananthapuram MP and former Union minister said that on October 28 around 5.38 am, Prasad had posted a 2 minute 18 seconds video clip of his press conference, along with certain "false, untrue, malicious and highly defamatory statements on Twitter." Tharoor alleged that the video had been posted to defame him and thereby to "spread an untrue, false and scandalous imputation" against him that he is a "murder case" accused and that he had been charge-sheeted. This was intended to "harm" his reputation and "malign" him before the public "by intentionally giving such false and untrue statements, the colour of his office, he had said. "It is evident that the impugned post/tweet and the contents are solely intended to malign and tarnish the reputation of the complainant," he stated. Tharoor had sent a lawyer's notice to Prasad, seeking an unconditional apology within 48 hours of the receipt of the notice, for levelling the allegations and to delete and remove the video clip of his press conference, along with a defamatory statement on Twitter. In his reply to the notice, Prasad had defended his tweet, saying it was not defamatory. According to the complainant, the offence against Prasad constitutes the commission of offence defined under Section 499 of the IPC (defamation), which is punishable Under sections 500 (punishment for defamation). Tharoor had sought appropriate action against Prasad.

Kerala court summons Ravi Shankar Prasad in defamation case filed by Tharoor

Big banners bearing messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with Arvind Kejriwal's image were put up in and around the historic Ramlila Maidan for the swearing-in of the AAP supremo as chief minister of Delhi for the third successive time at an event on Sunday which is "open to public" but won't see the usual gathering of political heavyweights.

Around 50 people from different walks of life who are 'Delhi ke Nirmata' and contributed to the development of the city during the last five years will share the stage with Kejriwal during his ceremony as special guests, AAP leader Manish Sisodia said.

Those invited include international tennis player Sumit Nagal, Delhi government school student and beneficiary of Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana who cracked IIT Vijay Kumar, mohalla clinic doctor Alka, bike ambulance service officer Yudhishtir Rathee, night shelter caretaker Shabina Naaz, bus marshall Arun Kumar, Signature bridge architect Ratan Jamshed Batliboi and metro pilot Nidhi Gupta.

From sprucing up the sprawling ground to extensive traffic and security arrangements, workers and authorities were busy making final preparations on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the ceremony, besides BJP MPs and MLAs from Delhi. The AAP had said no chief minister or political leader from other states will be part of the event as it will be a "Delhi-specific" ceremony.

On the eve of swearing-in ceremony, Kejriwal called a dinner meeting of his ministers-designate to discuss the roadmap for Delhi's development, especially the initiatives that need to be prioritised in the coming three months, according to party functionaries.

All the six ministers in the previous government -- Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gehlot, Imran Hussain and Rajendra Gautam -- have been retained.

With AAP scripting its third consecutive win in the Delhi assembly elections, the excitement was palpable among party workers and senior leaders alike, all of whom were expecting a huge crowd at the event.

Workers were on Saturday giving a fresh paint job to the white ceremonial platform at the Ramlila Maidan, and the area around it was being decked up with potted plants and flowers.

A large contingent of security personnel was given briefing by Delhi Police authorities at the Maidan.

Officials said 2,000 to 3,000 security personnel from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces, including the CRPF, were being deployed for the ceremony which is scheduled to begin at 10 am. Drones were likely to be used for aerial surveillance.

Traffic regulations will be in place in the area from 8 am to 2 pm, they said.

Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai said as this is an event open for public.

"We are expecting a good number of people to turn up tomorrow," he said.

"Baby Mufflerman'' Aavyan Tomar, who stole the hearts when he dressed up as the AAP convenor on counting day, is a 'special invitee' at the ceremony.

The AAP supremo had on Thursday extended invitation to Delhiites to attend his oath-taking ceremony to "bless their son". Advertisements were also issued in leading dailies.

"Delhiites, your son is going to take oath of Delhi chief minister for the third time. You must come to bless your son. Sunday, February 16, 10 am, Ramlila Maidan," Kejriwal, 51, had tweeted in Hindi.

There was some controversy as newly-elected BJP MLA Vijender Gupta wrote to Kejriwal objecting to a circular that made it "compulsory" for government school teachers to attend his oath-taking ceremony as Delhi chief minister.

Gupta, leader of Opposition in the previous assembly, called the Friday's circular "dictatorial" and said it had shattered his belief that Kejriwal's focus after coming back to power would be on governance and strengthening democratic ethos.

"By virtue of the order, 15,000 teachers and officials will have to attend the oath ceremony," Gupta, who has been re-elected from Rohini constituency, wrote in his letter to Kejriwal.

The BJP MLA, however, said he would attend Kejriwal's oath-taking ceremony.

Sisodia rejected the BJP's allegations, saying the teachers have been invited not ordered. He said that the BJP does not know how to respect teachers and that is the reason they make such statements

"Today a dream comes true. This dream is not just ours but of the people of Delhi and the real makers of Delhi - 'Delhi ke Nirmata'.

"They will represent various sectors and be with the Chief Minister as special guests on a specially designated stage. Collaborating with them, the government will pursue development works and schemes in Delhi effectively in the next five years also. We had a good five years. Next five years will be even better," Sisodia added.

He said Kejriwal's victory is the victory of those who dream to make Delhi a world-class city and work tirelessly for it.

In a near-repeat performance of 2015, the Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, which was floated in November 2012, retained power with a scintillating win in the just-concluded Delhi Assembly polls, trouncing its main rival BJP and completely decimating the Congress in a keenly-watched battle that took place in the midst of anti-CAA protests.

As the AAP bagged 62 out of the 70 seats, leaders cutting across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi (Congress), Sharad Pawar (NCP), Mamata Banerjee (TMC), Naveen Patnaik (BJD) and MK Stalin (DMK) had congratulated Kejriwal for the victory.

For bureaucrat-turned-politician who will assume the post of Delhi chief minister for the third time, the Ramlila Maidan holds special significance as it had served as his battleground during the Anna Hazare-led India Against Corruption movement.

The Delhi government, the North Delhi Municipal Corporation, which owns the Maidan, and Public Works Department are working in tandem to make the venue ready for the occasion.

"We had levelled the ground during the PM's event that took place recently. So, other groundwork is being done. The PWD is making necessary arrangements too," a senior NDMC official said.

Toilet blocks are in place in and around the Maidan. Arrangements for other sanitation facilities like mobile toilets are being done, he said.

The ground, where socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan had addressed a massive gathering during the 'Total Revolution' movement in the 1970s, has a capacity of about 1.25 lakh people.

Sources said that besides seating arrangements, there will be space for people to stand.

In 2015 too, Kejriwal's oath-taking ceremony had taken place at Ramlila Maidan. It was held on February 14, coinciding with the Valentine's Day.

In 2013 after his party's first poll victory, the swearing-in ceremony was held at the same venue. Over a lakh, people had attended the event on December 29 that year.

The AAP had in 2015 stunned its opponents with a massive win in the assembly polls, clinching 67 seats in the 70-member Delhi Assembly.

Kejriwal repeated his triumph in the high-profile New Delhi constituency, defeating Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunil Kumar Yadav by a margin of 21,697 votes.

Big banners bearing messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with Arvind Kejriwal's image were put up in and around the historic Ramlila Maidan for the swearing-in of the AAP supremo as chief minister of Delhi for the third successive time at an event on Sunday which is "open to public" but won't see the usual gathering of political heavyweights.

Big banners bearing messages like 'Dhanyawad Dilli' along with Arvind Kejriwal's image were put up in and around the historic Ramlila Maidan for the swearing-in of the AAP supremo as chief minister of Delhi for the third successive time at an event on Sunday which is "open to public" but won't see the usual gathering of political heavyweights. Around 50 people from different walks of life who are 'Delhi ke Nirmata' and contributed to the development of the city during the last five years will share the stage with Kejriwal during his ceremony as special guests, AAP leader Manish Sisodia said. Those invited include international tennis player Sumit Nagal, Delhi government school student and beneficiary of Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana who cracked IIT Vijay Kumar, mohalla clinic doctor Alka, bike ambulance service officer Yudhishtir Rathee, night shelter caretaker Shabina Naaz, bus marshall Arun Kumar, Signature bridge architect Ratan Jamshed Batliboi and metro pilot Nidhi Gupta. From sprucing up the sprawling ground to extensive traffic and security arrangements, workers and authorities were busy making final preparations on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the ceremony, besides BJP MPs and MLAs from Delhi. The AAP had said no chief minister or political leader from other states will be part of the event as it will be a "Delhi-specific" ceremony. On the eve of swearing-in ceremony, Kejriwal called a dinner meeting of his ministers-designate to discuss the roadmap for Delhi's development, especially the initiatives that need to be prioritised in the coming three months, according to party functionaries. All the six ministers in the previous government -- Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gehlot, Imran Hussain and Rajendra Gautam -- have been retained. With AAP scripting its third consecutive win in the Delhi assembly elections, the excitement was palpable among party workers and senior leaders alike, all of whom were expecting a huge crowd at the event. Workers were on Saturday giving a fresh paint job to the white ceremonial platform at the Ramlila Maidan, and the area around it was being decked up with potted plants and flowers. A large contingent of security personnel was given briefing by Delhi Police authorities at the Maidan. Officials said 2,000 to 3,000 security personnel from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces, including the CRPF, were being deployed for the ceremony which is scheduled to begin at 10 am. Drones were likely to be used for aerial surveillance. Traffic regulations will be in place in the area from 8 am to 2 pm, they said. Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai said as this is an event open for public. "We are expecting a good number of people to turn up tomorrow," he said. "Baby Mufflerman'' Aavyan Tomar, who stole the hearts when he dressed up as the AAP convenor on counting day, is a 'special invitee' at the ceremony. The AAP supremo had on Thursday extended invitation to Delhiites to attend his oath-taking ceremony to "bless their son". Advertisements were also issued in leading dailies. "Delhiites, your son is going to take oath of Delhi chief minister for the third time. You must come to bless your son. Sunday, February 16, 10 am, Ramlila Maidan," Kejriwal, 51, had tweeted in Hindi. There was some controversy as newly-elected BJP MLA Vijender Gupta wrote to Kejriwal objecting to a circular that made it "compulsory" for government school teachers to attend his oath-taking ceremony as Delhi chief minister. Gupta, leader of Opposition in the previous assembly, called the Friday's circular "dictatorial" and said it had shattered his belief that Kejriwal's focus after coming back to power would be on governance and strengthening democratic ethos. "By virtue of the order, 15,000 teachers and officials will have to attend the oath ceremony," Gupta, who has been re-elected from Rohini constituency, wrote in his letter to Kejriwal. The BJP MLA, however, said he would attend Kejriwal's oath-taking ceremony. Sisodia rejected the BJP's allegations, saying the teachers have been invited not ordered. He said that the BJP does not know how to respect teachers and that is the reason they make such statements "Today a dream comes true. This dream is not just ours but of the people of Delhi and the real makers of Delhi - 'Delhi ke Nirmata'. "They will represent various sectors and be with the Chief Minister as special guests on a specially designated stage. Collaborating with them, the government will pursue development works and schemes in Delhi effectively in the next five years also. We had a good five years. Next five years will be even better," Sisodia added. He said Kejriwal's victory is the victory of those who dream to make Delhi a world-class city and work tirelessly for it. In a near-repeat performance of 2015, the Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, which was floated in November 2012, retained power with a scintillating win in the just-concluded Delhi Assembly polls, trouncing its main rival BJP and completely decimating the Congress in a keenly-watched battle that took place in the midst of anti-CAA protests. As the AAP bagged 62 out of the 70 seats, leaders cutting across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi (Congress), Sharad Pawar (NCP), Mamata Banerjee (TMC), Naveen Patnaik (BJD) and MK Stalin (DMK) had congratulated Kejriwal for the victory. For bureaucrat-turned-politician who will assume the post of Delhi chief minister for the third time, the Ramlila Maidan holds special significance as it had served as his battleground during the Anna Hazare-led India Against Corruption movement. The Delhi government, the North Delhi Municipal Corporation, which owns the Maidan, and Public Works Department are working in tandem to make the venue ready for the occasion. "We had levelled the ground during the PM's event that took place recently. So, other groundwork is being done. The PWD is making necessary arrangements too," a senior NDMC official said. Toilet blocks are in place in and around the Maidan. Arrangements for other sanitation facilities like mobile toilets are being done, he said. The ground, where socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan had addressed a massive gathering during the 'Total Revolution' movement in the 1970s, has a capacity of about 1.25 lakh people. Sources said that besides seating arrangements, there will be space for people to stand. In 2015 too, Kejriwal's oath-taking ceremony had taken place at Ramlila Maidan. It was held on February 14, coinciding with the Valentine's Day. In 2013 after his party's first poll victory, the swearing-in ceremony was held at the same venue. Over a lakh, people had attended the event on December 29 that year. The AAP had in 2015 stunned its opponents with a massive win in the assembly polls, clinching 67 seats in the 70-member Delhi Assembly. Kejriwal repeated his triumph in the high-profile New Delhi constituency, defeating Bharatiya Janata Party's Sunil Kumar Yadav by a margin of 21,697 votes.

AAP's Kejriwal all set to swear-in as chief minister for the third time on Sunday

The Tupolov aircraft arrived in Kolkata on Friday where India's second Naval Museum is coming up soon. 
&nbsp; 
The dismantled TU – 142 aircraft arrived in Kolkata and the work on reassembling the aircraft will soon begin as the Naval Museum starts taking shape. The aircraft, which was handed over to the KMDA authorities will now begin reassembling it. 
&nbsp; 
According to sources, by the end of March, the reassembling of the aircraft is expected to be completed. 
&nbsp; 
On the other hand, West Bengal state authorities have begun work on the museum with initial work being completed at the site of the museum.

"Meanwhile the preparatory activities at New Townsite has commenced. The land at New town adjacent to the police station has been cleared, flattened and the base on which the aircraft will be erected has been completed,"&nbsp;said a release from the Ministry of Defence.

<img alt="Indian naval museum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="affc7a62-2fac-43f7-88c2-de8492e4a67e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/thumbnail_IMG-20200215-WA0019.jpg" /> 
&nbsp;<img alt="Naval museum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="96af41f1-4306-4a3e-b42d-66fb49ee35ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20200215-WA0018.jpg" /> 
The Indian Navy is setting up a permanent TU 142 aircraft in Kolkata,&nbsp;second such museum in the country after Vizag Naval Museum. 
&nbsp; 
While the TU-142 has been handed over by the Indian Navy, the West Bengal government will be setting up the museum and also bear the cost of building it. Government sources say it will be thrown open by mid-2020. 
&nbsp; 
The expenses for dismantling, transporting the TU-142 aircraft and assembling it in Kolkata is also being borne by the Bengal state government.

The Tupolov aircraft arrived in Kolkata on Friday where India's second Naval Museum is coming up soon. The dismantled TU – 142 aircraft arrived in Kolkata and the work on reassembling the aircraft will soon begin as the Naval Museum starts taking shape.

The Tupolov aircraft arrived in Kolkata on Friday where India's second Naval Museum is coming up soon. The dismantled TU – 142 aircraft arrived in Kolkata and the work on reassembling the aircraft will soon begin as the Naval Museum starts taking shape. The aircraft, which was handed over to the KMDA authorities will now begin reassembling it. According to sources, by the end of March, the reassembling of the aircraft is expected to be completed. On the other hand, West Bengal state authorities have begun work on the museum with initial work being completed at the site of the museum. "Meanwhile the preparatory activities at New Townsite has commenced. The land at New town adjacent to the police station has been cleared, flattened and the base on which the aircraft will be erected has been completed," said a release from the Ministry of Defence. The Indian Navy is setting up a permanent TU 142 aircraft in Kolkata, second such museum in the country after Vizag Naval Museum. While the TU-142 has been handed over by the Indian Navy, the West Bengal government will be setting up the museum and also bear the cost of building it. Government sources say it will be thrown open by mid-2020. The expenses for dismantling, transporting the TU-142 aircraft and assembling it in Kolkata is also being borne by the Bengal state government.

Tupolov aircraft for India's second naval museum arrives in Kolkata

Indian Railways will operate a new train based on Ramayan theme from March, officials said on Saturday.

According to the statement, the train which&nbsp;will start operating from last week of March will take pilgrims to locations associated with Lord Rama.

The train's interior and exterior will be based on Ramayana theme and it will give passengers feel of a temple on wheels.

The Ram bhajans will also play inside the train.

Railway Board Chairman VK Yadav said, "The train will take people to all places related to Ramayana.&nbsp;The theme of this train will be based on Ramayana.&nbsp; Pictures, thoughts and poems related to Ramayana will be displayed on coaches outside and pictures related to the epic and music will also be played inside."

Earlier, the Railways ran a special train named after Lord Ram, "Shri Ramayana Express", which began its services in November last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Indian Railways will operate a new train based on Ramayan theme from March, officials said on Saturday. According to the statement, the train which will start operating from last week of March will take pilgrims to locations associated with Lord Rama.

Indian Railways will operate a new train based on Ramayan theme from March, officials said on Saturday. According to the statement, the train which will start operating from last week of March will take pilgrims to locations associated with Lord Rama. The train's interior and exterior will be based on Ramayana theme and it will give passengers feel of a temple on wheels. The Ram bhajans will also play inside the train. Railway Board Chairman VK Yadav said, "The train will take people to all places related to Ramayana. The theme of this train will be based on Ramayana. Pictures, thoughts and poems related to Ramayana will be displayed on coaches outside and pictures related to the epic and music will also be played inside." Earlier, the Railways ran a special train named after Lord Ram, "Shri Ramayana Express", which began its services in November last year. (With inputs from ANI)

Railways to operate new train based on Ramayana theme

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-memo-says-strike-on-iranian-commander-responded-to-past-attacks-280761">White House memo says strike on Iranian commander responded to past attacks</a>

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="145ab5cb-446c-4260-81d7-df22b8dec028" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_12.jpg" />

The House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee released the memo a day after the U.S. Senate, in a rebuke to Trump, passed legislation with rare bipartisan support to limit the president’s ability to wage war against Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-quarantines-returning-residents-as-china-struggles-to-pick-up-economy-280760">Beijing quarantines returning residents as China struggles to pick up economy</a>

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfd91644-7423-4b9f-bef3-c38fa8bad656" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_0.jpg" />

“From now on, all those who have returned to Beijing should stay at home or submit to group observation for 14 days after arriving,” read the notice from Beijing’s virus prevention working group cited by the Beijing Daily.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-flipkart-challenge-new-indian-tax-on-online-sellers-280762">Amazon, Flipkart challenge new Indian tax on online sellers</a>

<img alt="Online" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ebb1b22a-446b-419a-8614-57253adb3f77" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_8.jpg" />

The online retail industry is braced for a possible 1% tax on each sale made by sellers on their platforms from April if the proposal is approved by parliament next month.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-banned-from-european-competition-for-two-seasons-by-uefa-280763">UEFA bans Manchester City from European competition for two seasons</a>

<img alt="City" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="155557c2-82e3-43ad-8a10-5e5a63f95aff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_9.jpg" />

The top four teams in the Premier League qualify for the Champions League and City are currently second -- should the ban stand then the fifth-placed team would take their spot.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

White House memo says strike on Iranian commander responded to past attacks The House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee released the memo a day after the U.

White House memo says strike on Iranian commander responded to past attacks The House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee released the memo a day after the U.S. Senate, in a rebuke to Trump, passed legislation with rare bipartisan support to limit the president’s ability to wage war against Iran. Beijing quarantines returning residents as China struggles to pick up economy “From now on, all those who have returned to Beijing should stay at home or submit to group observation for 14 days after arriving,” read the notice from Beijing’s virus prevention working group cited by the Beijing Daily. Amazon, Flipkart challenge new Indian tax on online sellers The online retail industry is braced for a possible 1% tax on each sale made by sellers on their platforms from April if the proposal is approved by parliament next month. UEFA bans Manchester City from European competition for two seasons The top four teams in the Premier League qualify for the Champions League and City are currently second -- should the ban stand then the fifth-placed team would take their spot.

Morning News Brief: Beijing quarantines returning residents, why US killed Soleimani, and more!

Indian Pharmacy retailers are sceptical of the surgical mask and especially the lack of N95 respirators in the country even after the coronavirus epidemic.

India faces spike in demand of face masks, sanitizers amid Coronavirus outbreak around the world

Twenty-year-old Srinivasa Gowda from Karnataka, India might just have created history. On February 1, Gowda from Mudbidri ran 142.5 metres in a mere 12.62 seconds while participating in the traditional buffalo race called Kambala.

Twenty-year-old Srinivasa Gowda from Karnataka, India might just have created history. On February 1, Gowda from Mudbidri ran 142.5 metres in a mere 12.62 seconds while participating in the traditional buffalo race called Kambala. This means that Gowda covered 100 metres in an incredible 9.55 seconds. The race is held in slushy paddy fields every year where participants run with a pair of buffalo. Today Gowda is being hailed as the Usain Bolt of India. "People are comparing me to Usain Bolt. He is a world champion. I am only running in a slushy paddy field", said the humble champion. But Gowda's Kambala exploits have not gone unnoticed, not the least bit. Business honcho Anand Mahindra took to twitter calling for Gowda to be trained to become a 100m sprinter. Just one look at his physique & you know this man is capable of extraordinary athletic feats. Now either @KirenRijiju provides him training as a 100m sprinter or we get Kambala to become an Olympic event. Either way, we want a gold medal for Srinivasa! 😊 https://t.co/H3SBiOVSKr — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) February 15, 2020 × BJP National General Secretary P Muralidhar Rao also tweeted saying that with adequate training Srinivasa Gowda can make a name for India internationally. India will rise and shine the Indic way! 100 meters in just 9.55 sec is an amazing feat. Proper training to Srinivas Gowda will definitely help him to make name for the country. My best wishes.@KirenRijiju @CTRavi_BJP https://t.co/ImgR3W1v4W pic.twitter.com/2zaUTBpLYo — P Muralidhar Rao (@PMuralidharRao) February 15, 2020 × Congress Leader Shashi Tharoor also took to twitter and urged the Athletics Association of India to transform Gowda into and Olympic champion. Faster Than Usain Bolt? Karnataka Man Running With Buffaloes Covers 100 Metres in Just 9.55 Seconds. I urge the Athletics Association of India to take this man under their wing & make an Olympic champion of him. Wonder how many hidden talents we have! https://t.co/G7jPE2zIng — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) February 15, 2020 × Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister Of State for Youth Affairs and Sports was quick to react and said that the Sports Authority of India has already reached out to Gowda and that his train tickets have been booked for SAI centre. Yes @PMuralidharRao ji. Officials from SAI have contacted him. His rail ticket is done and he will reach SAI centre on monday. I will ensure top national coaches to conduct his trials properly. We are team @narendramodi ji and will do everything to identity sporting talents! https://t.co/RF7KMfIHAD — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 15, 2020 × I'll call Karnataka's Srinivasa Gowda for trials by top SAI Coaches. There's lack of knowledge in masses about the standards of Olympics especially in athletics where ultimate human strength & endurance are surpassed. I'll ensure that no talents in India is left out untested. https://t.co/ohCLQ1YNK0 — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 15, 2020 × Srinivasa Gowda has sure been propelled to overnight stardom by his incredible performance in the sport. Multiple such instances had stirred excitement among sports fans in India in the past too. One Rameshwar Gurjar of Madhya Pradesh had enjoyed fame with a video emerged of him running 100 metres in a mere 11 seconds, that too barefoot. He too was hailed as Usain Bolt of India. However, unfortunately, Gurjas was not able to repeat the performance at SAI and the fame soon fizzled out. So, will Gowda be able to repeat his performance without his buffalos on the national stage? We sure hope so!

100 metres in 9.55 seconds; Karnataka man beats Usain Bolt's record

The Indian telecom department issued orders directing telecom companies such as Bharti Airtel, Idea and Vodafone to clear dues before Friday (February 14) midnight.

Indian govt asks telecom companies to pay Rs 1.47 lakh cr

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-its-honour-that-fb-ranked-him-number-1-and-pm-modi-number-2-280800">Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday chaired a meeting of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-labs-to-the-streets-scientists-are-marching-for-science-today-in-india-18778">Council of Scientific and Industrial Research</a> (CSIR) society here and suggested measures to enhance collaboration in research and development.

During the meeting, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-its-honour-that-fb-ranked-him-number-1-and-pm-modi-number-2-280800">Prime Minister</a> reviewed the work done by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-labs-to-the-streets-scientists-are-marching-for-science-today-in-india-18778">CSIR </a>and appreciated the tasks undertaken and gave his suggestions to chart out a future roadmap, as per an official statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-its-honour-that-fb-ranked-him-number-1-and-pm-modi-number-2-280800">Trump says it's honour that FB ranked him number 1 and PM Modi number 2</a>

"The Prime Minister stressed on the need to develop virtual labs to ensure science reaches all and to attract young students toward science and also suggested measures to enhance collaboration in research and development projects amongst Indians working across the world," it said.

Modi directed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-labs-to-the-streets-scientists-are-marching-for-science-today-in-india-18778">CSIR </a>to focus on real-time social issues like malnutrition and water conservation.Listing 5G, AI and affordable and long-lasting batteries for renewable energy storage as challenges that scientists need to focus on, the Prime Minister urged the scientific community to work towards improving the quality of life of the common man.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday chaired a meeting of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) society here and suggested measures to enhance collaboration in research and development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday chaired a meeting of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) society here and suggested measures to enhance collaboration in research and development. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reviewed the work done by CSIR and appreciated the tasks undertaken and gave his suggestions to chart out a future roadmap, as per an official statement. Also read: Trump says it's honour that FB ranked him number 1 and PM Modi number 2 "The Prime Minister stressed on the need to develop virtual labs to ensure science reaches all and to attract young students toward science and also suggested measures to enhance collaboration in research and development projects amongst Indians working across the world," it said. Modi directed the CSIR to focus on real-time social issues like malnutrition and water conservation.Listing 5G, AI and affordable and long-lasting batteries for renewable energy storage as challenges that scientists need to focus on, the Prime Minister urged the scientific community to work towards improving the quality of life of the common man.

PM Narendra Modi suggests measures to enhance collaboration in R&D in CSIR meeting

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct".

Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation.

India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire."

Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.&nbsp;

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas.

India has strongly protested ceasefire violation by Pakistan on Friday that killed one Indian citizen in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In a note of protest to Pakistan High Commission, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the "indiscriminate and deliberate firing of heavy calibre weapons including artillery and mortars" in which Pak forces targetted civilian areas. The note said such targetting of civilians areas is against all "established humanitarian norms and professional military conduct". Indian civilian named Dadardin, who was a resident of Shahpur village, was killed due to Pak ceasefire violation. Two civilians were also injured in the ceasefire violation. India, while asking Islamabad to investigate "heinous acts" of targeting innocent civilians, called it to instruct its forces to "desist from such acts immediately." New Delhi also raised its concern regarding Pak support to cross border infiltration of terrorists, "including through covering fire." Pakistan forces have carried out more than 497 unprovoked ceasefire violations so far in 2020.

India protests ceasefire violation by Pakistan; calls killing of civilian against professional military conduct 

Its been one year since the deadly Pulwama attack killed 40 CRPF personnel. Today, a memorial was inaugurated in the honour of the martyrs who lost their lives in the attack.

Gravitas: One year of Pulwama attack

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers.&nbsp;

According to reports, the demand for hand sanitizers and protective masks has gone through the roof in Indian metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that the total market for masks alone has doubled than the last year.&nbsp;

Online portals are also experiencing a surge in demand for N95 masks. Recently, as per a report, Kerala's surgical stores ran out of N95 protective masks.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/theres-no-evidence-new-coronavirus-spreads-through-the-air-but-its-still-possible-280700">There’s no evidence new coronavirus spreads through the air – but it’s still possible</a>

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All Food and Drug License Holders Foundation has estimated a nearly 100 per cent jump in the face mask market in the country. The foundation represents 7,000 pharmaceutical suppliers from across the country.&nbsp;

As per the estimates, the demand for protective face masks in the country has shot up from 0.6 to 0.7 million masks to 1 to 1.2 million masks in a month.&nbsp;

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In Bengaluru, people are buying masks to prevent being infected though no positive cases of coronavirus infection have been reported in the city so far.

Nandani, a resident said, "We want to protect ourselves. Since it is a flu season, people get affected by viruses very easily. It is better to stay safe."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-gaming-industry-zooms-to-new-high-as-coronavirus-spreads-in-china-280635">Video games - Only industry that is booming at the time of coronavirus</a>

Confirming the increase in sales of the mask, a chemist owner Sangmesh, said, "We are selling masks daily. People are asking for N95 mask but we are out if stock so they are buying a normal mask."

Cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Jaipur are also experiencing a spike in the demand for masks, hand sanitizers and soaps.&nbsp;

India had banned the export of personal protection equipment such as masks and clothing amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Later this month, New Delhi allowed the export of gloves, disposable masks, surgical mask barring personal protection equipment such as N95 masks.&nbsp;

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

&nbsp;

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers.

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers. According to reports, the demand for hand sanitizers and protective masks has gone through the roof in Indian metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru. Reports suggest that the total market for masks alone has doubled than the last year. Online portals are also experiencing a surge in demand for N95 masks. Recently, as per a report, Kerala's surgical stores ran out of N95 protective masks. Also read: There’s no evidence new coronavirus spreads through the air – but it’s still possible × All Food and Drug License Holders Foundation has estimated a nearly 100 per cent jump in the face mask market in the country. The foundation represents 7,000 pharmaceutical suppliers from across the country. As per the estimates, the demand for protective face masks in the country has shot up from 0.6 to 0.7 million masks to 1 to 1.2 million masks in a month. × In Bengaluru, people are buying masks to prevent being infected though no positive cases of coronavirus infection have been reported in the city so far. Nandani, a resident said, "We want to protect ourselves. Since it is a flu season, people get affected by viruses very easily. It is better to stay safe." Also read: Video games - Only industry that is booming at the time of coronavirus Confirming the increase in sales of the mask, a chemist owner Sangmesh, said, "We are selling masks daily. People are asking for N95 mask but we are out if stock so they are buying a normal mask." Cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Jaipur are also experiencing a spike in the demand for masks, hand sanitizers and soaps. India had banned the export of personal protection equipment such as masks and clothing amid the coronavirus outbreak. Later this month, New Delhi allowed the export of gloves, disposable masks, surgical mask barring personal protection equipment such as N95 masks. China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

Coronavirus outbreak: Indian cities face surge in demand for face masks, hand sanitizers

People travelling on Noida Metro Rail Corporation's Aqua Line will now be able to book train coaches for personal or professional events.&nbsp;

According to reports, the service will be available for Rs 5,000-10,000 per hour as per the service packages.

The move has been taken to increase Metro's viability and to provide better facilities to commuters.&nbsp;

A press release posted on the Noida Metro's official website reads, "Noida Metro in addition to the mode of travel, will also become an accessible, attractive and affordable destination for entertainment and celebrations that too at a very reasonable cost".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/delhi-metro-station-brings-alive-memories-of-partition-265263">Delhi Metro station brings alive memories of partition</a>

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Noida Metro Rail Corp has introduced new facility for commuters in which a coach or complete metro can be booked at Rs 5,000-10,000/hr package to have official or personal events. Ritu Maheshwari, MD says, "Decision taken to increase Metro's viability&amp;to give better facilities". <a href="https://t.co/yeHyo42ECg">pic.twitter.com/yeHyo42ECg</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1228269469681602561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The aim behind the policy is to develop NMRC as the unique destination for Birthday and Pre-Wedding Celebrations for residents of Noida and Greater Noida," it read.&nbsp;

The applicant can choose to get one to four Metro coaches booked for the event. The applicant will need to submit an application to NMRC at least 15 days in advance. The applications will be considered on 'first come first serve' basis.&nbsp;

The applicants will need to pay license fee which may vary from Rs 5,000 to 10,000 per hour/per metro coach, excluding taxes.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lifeline-of-delhi-ncr-delhi-metro-completes-17-years-of-operations-270188">Delhi Metro completes 17 years of operations</a>

Decorated or undecorated coach in a running metro or a static metro will also incur charges accordingly.

Besides this, a refundable, interest-free security deposit of Rs 20,000 should also be deposited by the applicant.&nbsp;

"The coach(es) (decorated/undecorated) in regular running metro shall be available in the operational hours whereas in stand still metro shall be available in operational hours as well as non-operational hours. Non-operational hours would be from 11 pm to 2 am only," the NMRC stated on its website.

Not more than 50 people shall be allowed per coach for the event.&nbsp;

People travelling on Noida Metro Rail Corporation's Aqua Line will now be able to book train coaches for personal or professional events. According to reports, the service will be available for Rs 5,000-10,000 per hour as per the service packages.

People travelling on Noida Metro Rail Corporation's Aqua Line will now be able to book train coaches for personal or professional events. According to reports, the service will be available for Rs 5,000-10,000 per hour as per the service packages. The move has been taken to increase Metro's viability and to provide better facilities to commuters. A press release posted on the Noida Metro's official website reads, "Noida Metro in addition to the mode of travel, will also become an accessible, attractive and affordable destination for entertainment and celebrations that too at a very reasonable cost". Also read: Delhi Metro station brings alive memories of partition Noida Metro Rail Corp has introduced new facility for commuters in which a coach or complete metro can be booked at Rs 5,000-10,000/hr package to have official or personal events. Ritu Maheshwari, MD says, "Decision taken to increase Metro's viability&to give better facilities". pic.twitter.com/yeHyo42ECg — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 14, 2020 × "The aim behind the policy is to develop NMRC as the unique destination for Birthday and Pre-Wedding Celebrations for residents of Noida and Greater Noida," it read. The applicant can choose to get one to four Metro coaches booked for the event. The applicant will need to submit an application to NMRC at least 15 days in advance. The applications will be considered on 'first come first serve' basis. The applicants will need to pay license fee which may vary from Rs 5,000 to 10,000 per hour/per metro coach, excluding taxes. Also read: Delhi Metro completes 17 years of operations Decorated or undecorated coach in a running metro or a static metro will also incur charges accordingly. Besides this, a refundable, interest-free security deposit of Rs 20,000 should also be deposited by the applicant. "The coach(es) (decorated/undecorated) in regular running metro shall be available in the operational hours whereas in stand still metro shall be available in operational hours as well as non-operational hours. Non-operational hours would be from 11 pm to 2 am only," the NMRC stated on its website. Not more than 50 people shall be allowed per coach for the event.

Not just travel, you can now throw birthday parties and pre-wedding celebration on Noida Metro's Aqua Line

WION FinePrint: Demand for face masks surges in India

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-over-1480-japan-confirms-first-death-280603" hreflang="en">China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death</a>

<img alt="cc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="581cb069-4e01-4638-947d-ee62a35ea6cd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_26.jpg" />

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-curbs-trumps-ability-to-wage-war-with-iran-280607" hreflang="en">US Senate curbs Trump's ability to wage war with Iran</a>

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The US Senate has passed the Iran war powers resolution. The&nbsp;bill seeks to prevent&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;from waging war with Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-why-hafiz-saeeds-conviction-is-an-eyewash-280481" hreflang="en">WION Edit: Why Hafiz Saeed's conviction is an eyewash</a>

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An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manpreet-singh-first-indian-to-win-fih-hockey-player-of-the-year-award-280605">Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win FIH hockey player of the year award</a>

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The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/those-who-say-i-commercialised-pain-of-kashmiri-pandits-in-shikara-are-donkeys-vidhu-vinod-chopra-280577" hreflang="en">Those who say I commercialised pain of Kashmiri pandits in 'Shikara' are donkeys: Vidhu Vinod Chopra</a>

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Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film "Shikara"&nbsp;and termed them "donkeys".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-islam-rant-triggers-national-debate-in-france-280600" hreflang="en">Gravitas: Anti-Islam rant triggers national debate in France</a>

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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. China's coronavirus death toll rises to over 1,480; Japan confirms first death China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. US Senate curbs Trump's ability to wage war with Iran The US Senate has passed the Iran war powers resolution. The bill seeks to prevent Donald Trump from waging war with Iran. WION Edit: Why Hafiz Saeed's conviction is an eyewash An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail. Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win FIH hockey player of the year award The captain of the Indian men's team won 35.2 per cent of the combined votes and beat Belgium's Arthur van Doren and Lucas Vila of Argentina to the coveted honour. Those who say I commercialised pain of Kashmiri pandits in 'Shikara' are donkeys: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra slammed those alleging that he "commercialised the pain of Kashmiri pandits" with his film "Shikara" and termed them "donkeys". WATCH | Gravitas: Anti-Islam rant triggers national debate in France ×

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, US Senate curbs Trump's war powers and more!

Indian-origin politician <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-finance-minister-sajid-javid-quits-in-reshuffle-280549">Rishi Sunak replaced Sajid Javi</a>d as Finance Minister of the United Kingdom on Thursday. He was appointed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the cabinet reshuffle.

Sunak, the son-in-law of Infosys Co-founder and Indian billionaire&nbsp;Narayana Murthy, will join Home secretary Priti Patel on the top government bench as the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Before this, Sunak has served as Javid's junior as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He was seen as a rising star within the Cabinet while he working with Javid.

As he takes charge of the second most important government position in UK, Sunak will move into No. 11 Downing Street, next door to the Prime Minister's Office.

The MP for Richmond in Yorkshire first entered the UK Parliament in 2015 and has fast risen up the Conservative Party ranks as a staunch Brexiteer who had back Johnson's strategy to leave the European Union (EU).&nbsp;

Sunak was regularly put forward by the government to do media interviews and stood in for Johnson in some televised debates during last year's election campaign.

Born in the UK,&nbsp;Sunak's mother was a pharmacist who ran a local pharmacy shop while his father was a National Health Service (NHS) general practitioner.&nbsp;

Sunak&nbsp;attended the prestigious Winchester College before going on to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford University. He also has an MBA from Stanford University in the United States.

&nbsp;Before entering politics he worked for investment bank Goldman Sachs and a hedge fund, then co-founded a 1-billion pound global investment firm.&nbsp;

"From working in my mum's tiny chemist shop to my experience building large businesses, I have seen how we should support free enterprise and innovation to ensure Britain has a stronger future," Sunak had said during the Brexit referendum.

He strongly believes that small businesses in the UK would flourish as a result of Brexit as the "vast majority of British businesses (94 per cent) don't have anything to do with the EU, but they are still subject to all EU law".

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin politician Rishi Sunak replaced Sajid Javid as Finance Minister of the United Kingdom on Thursday. He was appointed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the cabinet reshuffle.

Indian-origin politician Rishi Sunak replaced Sajid Javid as Finance Minister of the United Kingdom on Thursday. He was appointed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the cabinet reshuffle. Sunak, the son-in-law of Infosys Co-founder and Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy, will join Home secretary Priti Patel on the top government bench as the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Before this, Sunak has served as Javid's junior as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He was seen as a rising star within the Cabinet while he working with Javid. As he takes charge of the second most important government position in UK, Sunak will move into No. 11 Downing Street, next door to the Prime Minister's Office. The MP for Richmond in Yorkshire first entered the UK Parliament in 2015 and has fast risen up the Conservative Party ranks as a staunch Brexiteer who had back Johnson's strategy to leave the European Union (EU). Sunak was regularly put forward by the government to do media interviews and stood in for Johnson in some televised debates during last year's election campaign. Born in the UK, Sunak's mother was a pharmacist who ran a local pharmacy shop while his father was a National Health Service (NHS) general practitioner. Sunak attended the prestigious Winchester College before going on to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford University. He also has an MBA from Stanford University in the United States. Before entering politics he worked for investment bank Goldman Sachs and a hedge fund, then co-founded a 1-billion pound global investment firm. "From working in my mum's tiny chemist shop to my experience building large businesses, I have seen how we should support free enterprise and innovation to ensure Britain has a stronger future," Sunak had said during the Brexit referendum. He strongly believes that small businesses in the UK would flourish as a result of Brexit as the "vast majority of British businesses (94 per cent) don't have anything to do with the EU, but they are still subject to all EU law". (With inputs from agencies)

From working in chemist shop to becoming UK's new finance minister - Who is Rishi Sunak?

PM Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Smriti Irani and Hardeep Puri,West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal were among those who remembered those killed when a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel was attacked on February 14 last year.

WION Dispatch: Nation Pays homage to Pulwama Martyrs

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's first official visit. Trump's trip to India has raised hopes that he would restore some of the country's US trade preferences, in exchange for tariff reductions and other concessions.

India goes extra mile for Trade deal

In a landmark order today, the Supreme Court ordered political parties to share details of criminal cases against their candidates on the party website.

Gravitas: Top Court orders parties to upload candidates' criminal record

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said that if required, the government would take more steps beyond the announcements made in the Union Budget 2020-21 to boost economic activities.

At an interactive session on 'Budget and Beyond' with professionals from asset management, wealth advisory, tax consultancy and other related industries, the minister also said the Budget 2020-21 was a budget where the impact on equity, bond and currency markets was positive.

"If more has to be done beyond the Budget 2020, we are willing to do that," Sitharaman said at the session, where the participants made several suggestions to boost economic activities in the country.

The government announced a host of steps in the Union Budget, presented on February 1 in Parliament, to expand the economic activities at a time when the country is faced with demand slowdown due to several reasons.

The country's GDP growth is estimated to slow to an 11-year low of 5 per cent in the current financial year.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/laid-foundation-for-5-trillion-economy-in-budget-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-279610">Laid foundation for $5 trillion economy in budget - Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

During the interactive session, participants made suggestions for increasing consumption, giving more money into the hands of consumers, measures required to boost liquidity and hosts of suggestions for the capital markets.

Several suggestions were also made on the 'Vivad se Vishwas' scheme to deal with the disputes related to the direct taxes. It was announced in the Budget 2020-21.

She said the finance ministry will provide details of the scheme soon. However, Parliament approval will be required before the scheme is implemented.

The Union Cabinet has approved certain amendments to the scheme.

"In a day or two, we shall be coming with a clear non-paper (on the scheme) because Parliament is yet to pass it," she said.

To a suggestion regarding PAN card, the minister said the issuance process would be simplified further.

She assured the participants that her ministry would look into the suggestions.

The finance minister had similar interactive sessions in Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata last week.

The meeting was also attended by Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar and CEO Amitabh Kant, besides secretaries of the finance ministry.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said that if required, the government would take more steps beyond the announcements made in the Union Budget 2020-21 to boost economic activities.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said that if required, the government would take more steps beyond the announcements made in the Union Budget 2020-21 to boost economic activities. At an interactive session on 'Budget and Beyond' with professionals from asset management, wealth advisory, tax consultancy and other related industries, the minister also said the Budget 2020-21 was a budget where the impact on equity, bond and currency markets was positive. "If more has to be done beyond the Budget 2020, we are willing to do that," Sitharaman said at the session, where the participants made several suggestions to boost economic activities in the country. The government announced a host of steps in the Union Budget, presented on February 1 in Parliament, to expand the economic activities at a time when the country is faced with demand slowdown due to several reasons. The country's GDP growth is estimated to slow to an 11-year low of 5 per cent in the current financial year. Also read: Laid foundation for $5 trillion economy in budget - Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman During the interactive session, participants made suggestions for increasing consumption, giving more money into the hands of consumers, measures required to boost liquidity and hosts of suggestions for the capital markets. Several suggestions were also made on the 'Vivad se Vishwas' scheme to deal with the disputes related to the direct taxes. It was announced in the Budget 2020-21. She said the finance ministry will provide details of the scheme soon. However, Parliament approval will be required before the scheme is implemented. The Union Cabinet has approved certain amendments to the scheme. "In a day or two, we shall be coming with a clear non-paper (on the scheme) because Parliament is yet to pass it," she said. To a suggestion regarding PAN card, the minister said the issuance process would be simplified further. She assured the participants that her ministry would look into the suggestions. The finance minister had similar interactive sessions in Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata last week. The meeting was also attended by Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar and CEO Amitabh Kant, besides secretaries of the finance ministry.

Government willing to do more beyond Budget to boost growth: Sitharaman

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in paying tribute to the 40 CRPF personnel killed in a terror attack in Pulwama a year ago and said India will never forget their martyrdom.

Pulwama attack anniversary: PM Modi, leaders pay homage to brave CRPF personnel

The four astronauts shortlisted for India’s first manned space mission, Gaganyaan, have commenced their full-fledged training at Russia’s Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Star City.

India gears up for Mission Gaganyaan

Supreme Court judge Justice R Banumathi fainted in the courtroom on Friday while dictating the order on the Centre' plea seeking separate hanging of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case.

Justice Banumathi soon regained consciousness and was taken to the chamber by other judges on the dais and Supreme Court staff. She was taken on a wheelchair for medical treatment.

Justice A S Bopanna, while rising, said that the order in the matter will be passed in-chamber. Justice Ashok Bhushan was also part of the three-judge bench hearing the matter.

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the plea of Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President alleging that it was done in a "mala fide" manner.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-sc-dismisses-death-row-convict-vinay-sharmas-plea-challenging-rejection-of-mercy-petition-280701">Nirbhaya case - SC dismisses death row convict Vinay Sharma's plea challenging rejection of mercy petition</a>

A bench of Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna said no ground was made out for a judicial review of the rejection of the mercy petition Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 case.

"The note put up before the President of India is a detailed one and all the relevant materials were placed before the President and upon consideration of same, the mercy petition was rejected," the bench said.

Supreme Court judge Justice R Banumathi fainted in the courtroom on Friday while dictating the order on the Centre' plea seeking separate hanging of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case.

Supreme Court judge Justice R Banumathi fainted in the courtroom on Friday while dictating the order on the Centre' plea seeking separate hanging of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case. Justice Banumathi soon regained consciousness and was taken to the chamber by other judges on the dais and Supreme Court staff. She was taken on a wheelchair for medical treatment. Justice A S Bopanna, while rising, said that the order in the matter will be passed in-chamber. Justice Ashok Bhushan was also part of the three-judge bench hearing the matter. The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the plea of Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President alleging that it was done in a "mala fide" manner. Also read: Nirbhaya case - SC dismisses death row convict Vinay Sharma's plea challenging rejection of mercy petition A bench of Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna said no ground was made out for a judicial review of the rejection of the mercy petition Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 case. "The note put up before the President of India is a detailed one and all the relevant materials were placed before the President and upon consideration of same, the mercy petition was rejected," the bench said.

Nirbhaya case: Supreme Court judge faints in courtroom

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the plea of Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President alleging that it was done in a "mala fide" manner.

A bench of Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna said no ground was made out for judicial review of the rejection of the mercy petition Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 case.

"The note put up before the President of India is a detailed one and all the relevant materials were placed before the President and upon consideration of same, the mercy petition was rejected," the bench said.

"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," it said.

All material including Sharma's medical report was placed before the President, who did apply his mind in rejection of the mercy plea, it said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-death-row-convict-claims-mental-illness-in-supreme-court-centre-says-he-has-sound-mind-280590">Nirbhaya case - Death row convict claims mental illness in Supreme Court, Centre says he has sound mind</a>

The apex court dismissed the contention of Sharma that he is mentally ill, saying the medical report suggests he is stable.

The trial court had on January 31 stayed "till further orders" execution of the four convicts in the case -- Mukesh Kumar Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Kumar Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar (31), who are lodged in Tihar Jail.

Sharma claimed on Thursday that while rejecting his mercy plea the President did not consider his mental illness following torture in jail, an allegation denied by the Centre saying "he is fit and has sound mind".

Through his counsel, he made a last ditch effort to escape from the gallows claiming that all the relevant records were not brought before the President including that he had been subjected to torture and ill-treatment in jail due to which he had developed mental illness.

The Centre however had opposed his claim and produced a medical report dated February 12 which said he was fit and had a sound mind.

The top court had also rejected Sharma's counsel A P Singh's request to peruse the original file of recommendation made by the Lieutenant Governor and Delhi home minister Satyendra Jain for rejection of his mercy petition.

Singh contended that signatures of Delhi home minister and LG were not obtained on the original files recommending rejection of mercy petition of Sharma.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and NCT of Delhi, opposed the arguments of Singh and said that signatures were obtained on the original files and submitted the documents for the perusal of the court.

He said Sharma was kept in solitary confinement and subjected to inhuman treatment against the guidelines of the apex court.

Singh argued that there was history of physical assaults on Sharma and his medical records establish that he was taken for psychiatric treatment several times.

Mehta opposed the arguments saying all due process of law was followed.

The apex court had earlier dismissed a plea filed by Mukesh challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President.

Pawan has not yet filed a curative petition -- the last and final legal remedy available to a person which is decided in-chamber. Pawan also has the option of filing a mercy plea.

The mercy petition of Akshay was also rejected by the President.

The 23-year-old physiotherapy intern, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' (fearless), was gang-raped and savagely assaulted on the night of December 16, 2012, in a moving bus in South Delhi. She died of her injuries a fortnight later in a Singapore hospital.

Six people including the four convicts, Ram Singh and a juvenile -- were named as accused.

The trial of the five adult men began in a special fast-track court in March 2013.

Ram Singh, the prime accused, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in Tihar jail days after the trial began. The juvenile, who was said to be the most brutal of the attackers, was put in a correctional home for three years.

The juvenile was released in 2015 and sent to an undisclosed location amid concerns over a threat to his life. He, when released, was 20 years old.

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the plea of Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President alleging that it was done in a "mala fide" manner.

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the plea of Vinay Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President alleging that it was done in a "mala fide" manner. A bench of Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna said no ground was made out for judicial review of the rejection of the mercy petition Sharma, one of the four death row convicts in the 2012 case. "The note put up before the President of India is a detailed one and all the relevant materials were placed before the President and upon consideration of same, the mercy petition was rejected," the bench said. "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," it said. All material including Sharma's medical report was placed before the President, who did apply his mind in rejection of the mercy plea, it said. Also read: Nirbhaya case - Death row convict claims mental illness in Supreme Court, Centre says he has sound mind The apex court dismissed the contention of Sharma that he is mentally ill, saying the medical report suggests he is stable. The trial court had on January 31 stayed "till further orders" execution of the four convicts in the case -- Mukesh Kumar Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Kumar Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar (31), who are lodged in Tihar Jail. Sharma claimed on Thursday that while rejecting his mercy plea the President did not consider his mental illness following torture in jail, an allegation denied by the Centre saying "he is fit and has sound mind". Through his counsel, he made a last ditch effort to escape from the gallows claiming that all the relevant records were not brought before the President including that he had been subjected to torture and ill-treatment in jail due to which he had developed mental illness. The Centre however had opposed his claim and produced a medical report dated February 12 which said he was fit and had a sound mind. The top court had also rejected Sharma's counsel A P Singh's request to peruse the original file of recommendation made by the Lieutenant Governor and Delhi home minister Satyendra Jain for rejection of his mercy petition. Singh contended that signatures of Delhi home minister and LG were not obtained on the original files recommending rejection of mercy petition of Sharma. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and NCT of Delhi, opposed the arguments of Singh and said that signatures were obtained on the original files and submitted the documents for the perusal of the court. He said Sharma was kept in solitary confinement and subjected to inhuman treatment against the guidelines of the apex court. Singh argued that there was history of physical assaults on Sharma and his medical records establish that he was taken for psychiatric treatment several times. Mehta opposed the arguments saying all due process of law was followed. The apex court had earlier dismissed a plea filed by Mukesh challenging the rejection of his mercy petition by the President. Pawan has not yet filed a curative petition -- the last and final legal remedy available to a person which is decided in-chamber. Pawan also has the option of filing a mercy plea. The mercy petition of Akshay was also rejected by the President. The 23-year-old physiotherapy intern, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' (fearless), was gang-raped and savagely assaulted on the night of December 16, 2012, in a moving bus in South Delhi. She died of her injuries a fortnight later in a Singapore hospital. Six people including the four convicts, Ram Singh and a juvenile -- were named as accused. The trial of the five adult men began in a special fast-track court in March 2013. Ram Singh, the prime accused, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in Tihar jail days after the trial began. The juvenile, who was said to be the most brutal of the attackers, was put in a correctional home for three years. The juvenile was released in 2015 and sent to an undisclosed location amid concerns over a threat to his life. He, when released, was 20 years old.

Nirbhaya case: SC dismisses death row convict Vinay Sharma's plea challenging rejection of mercy petition

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted out on the first anniversary of the ghastly Pulwama terror attack that took place on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir last year.&nbsp;

The prime minister paid tributes to those who lost their lives in the gruesome attack and called them "exceptional individuals".

"India will never forget their martyrdom," PM Modi posted.

"Tributes to the brave martyrs who lost their lives in the gruesome Pulwama attack last year. They were exceptional individuals who devoted their lives to serving and protecting our nation. India will never forget their martyrdom," he tweeted out.

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pulwama-attack-a-timeline-of-events-280672">Pulwama attack - &nbsp;A timeline of events</a>

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Tributes to the brave martyrs who lost their lives in the gruesome Pulwama attack last year. They were exceptional individuals who devoted their lives to serving and protecting our nation. India will never forget their martyrdom.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1228171687792742401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last year on February 14, 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel were killed when an explosives-laden jeep hit a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar highway at Lethpora in Pulwama. The jeep was driven by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Adeel Ahmed Dar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted out on the first anniversary of the ghastly Pulwama terror attack that took place on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted out on the first anniversary of the ghastly Pulwama terror attack that took place on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir last year. The prime minister paid tributes to those who lost their lives in the gruesome attack and called them "exceptional individuals". "India will never forget their martyrdom," PM Modi posted. "Tributes to the brave martyrs who lost their lives in the gruesome Pulwama attack last year. They were exceptional individuals who devoted their lives to serving and protecting our nation. India will never forget their martyrdom," he tweeted out. In pics: Pulwama attack - A timeline of events Tributes to the brave martyrs who lost their lives in the gruesome Pulwama attack last year. They were exceptional individuals who devoted their lives to serving and protecting our nation. India will never forget their martyrdom. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 14, 2020 × Last year on February 14, 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel were killed when an explosives-laden jeep hit a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar highway at Lethpora in Pulwama. The jeep was driven by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Adeel Ahmed Dar.

India will never forget their martyrdom: PM Modi tweets on one year of Pulwama attack

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights.

Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years.

In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges.

Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education.

Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation.

Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education.

In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport.

President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks.

India and Portugal on Friday signed seven agreements to boost cooperation in a range of areas after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa held extensive talks. The pacts provide for cooperation in areas of investment, transport, ports, culture and industrial and intellectual property rights. Portugal is an important country for India in Southern Europe, and bilateral ties have witnessed steady progress in the last 15 years. In October 2005, Portugal extradited Abu Salem and Monica Bedi to face terror charges. Prime Minister Modi visited Portugal in June 2017 during which 11 agreements were signed covering a large number of areas including space, avoidance of double taxation, nano-technology, biotechnology and higher education. Sousa arrived here on Thursday night on a four-day visit, his first to India. The last visit by a Portuguese President to India was in 2007. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation. Officials said the talks covered entire expanse of bilateral ties including in areas of trade, investment and education. In the morning, the Portuguese president was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The pacts signed after Modi-Sousa talks included a joint declaration a bilateral mobility partnership and another on maritime transport. President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the visiting president on Friday evening and host a banquet in his honour. Sousa will also travel to Maharashtra and Goa during his visit.

India, Portugal ink seven pacts after Modi-Sousa talks

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