Viral video shows cross falling on Colombia priest, no official confirmation | WATCH

France reports first human case of livestock virus Shamonda, patient dies; what we know so far

Trump called Musk to lift Starlink restrictions affecting Ukraine's military operation: Report

Two BrahMos missiles on Tejas, triple the range and 100% indigenisation, says former BrahMos CEO

Ilhan Omar breaks silence over alleged marriage to her brother; Trump thinks it's 'really good answer'

India-China face-off continues near Arunachal’s Taksing, reveals ITBP chief in first official confirmation of tensions

Netanyahu dials PM Modi, invites him and Capt Smit Machchhar to light torch on Israel’s Independence Day

WATCH: Trump demands Ilhan Omar removal from Congress for 'using fake name to be sworn in'. So what is her real name?

Iran to invade neighbours soon, Israeli jets in action, American troops ready to strike any moment

Christa Pike's failed execution: Tennessee team struggled to insert IV lines, lawyer says

US midterms 2026: US Supreme Court allows New Hampshire to restrict student IDs for voting

A secret code, a midnight escape and 300 deaths: The Russian officer who turned on Putin

Trump ordered to answer questions under oath in BBC defamation lawsuit by December 11

Putin says Russia is ready to resume Ukraine-US peace talks but rejects 'short ceasefire' amid deadly attacks

From Agni-V to Project Kusha: How are India’s indigenous missile systems and defence shield reshaping modern warfare

'It's a crime not to see this scene': Tehran puts Trump 'behind bars'

What is the ‘heat ray’ weapon? Pete Hegseth reportedly authorises DHS to test it at US-Mexico border

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Temba Bavuma reveals 'Tendulkar inspiration' behind career-best 179

China's dancing robot turns violent bodyguard, lifts cars and fights intruders - Watch

Tom Skerritt, best known for Top Gun and Alien, dies at 93; tributes pour in

Watch: India rejects ‘imprecise and unsupported’ references in UN migrant rights report

US to get 850 F-35 stealth fighter jets under 10-year Pentagon-Lockheed deal

GRAVITAS | Putin fires nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles, Zelensky ready to surrender 25% territory

New Friday OTT releases (October 23, 2026): Gajab Raat, Dorothy, Chaar Yaar- Watch these 6 new movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

'That was great, who threw that punch?': Trump asks as protester punched at rally

Serbia elections: Nearly 150,000 people take to streets in massive rally against Aleksandar Vucic | In pics

'This is despicable': Amy Acton hits back at Vivek Ramaswamy over Ohio campaign ad featuring her estranged mother

Finance influencer dies by suicide in Chennai; father accuses tech CEO, who denies charge

'Vivek should keep it up': Trump defends Ramaswamy's controversial campaign ad targeting Amy Acton

One man, 8 months of work, and a river dirty again: Why Bittu Tabahi may quit

US midterms 2026: Elon Musk’s political spending hits $445 million as Republicans battle to retain Senate control

ENG vs SL: Harry Brook breaks Shubman Gill’s record for fastest ODI double century

ENG vs SL: Harry Brook’s 202 goes in vain as Sri Lanka pull off second-highest ODI chase

Saudi Arabia targeted yacht carrying 14 Indians in Red Sea, rescue underway, Houthis claim

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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-demand-for-face-masks-surges-in-india-280740/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-death-toll-in-china-rises-to-1483-wion-news-world-news-280606/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"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>

<img alt="ssd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb87db2d-1a25-46a3-b6eb-3cd63482d819" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_20.jpg" />

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>

<img alt="dc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0603c990-186c-46c8-9f62-651e1f551acd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2811%29_16.jpg" />

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>

<img alt="Manpreet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="969858bc-90ca-404b-81f1-1229ba5dad6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_27.jpg" />

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>

<img alt="zz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62e0d3a6-d2d9-4732-ac0d-468017413469" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/xsxa.JPG" />

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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-islam-rant-triggers-national-debate-in-france-280600/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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

AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his swearing-in ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan on February 16, senior party leader Gopal Rai said on Friday.

Rai, the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party's Delhi unit, said a letter was sent to the prime minister on Friday morning.

It was, however, not clear whether the prime minister would attend the swearing-in ceremony. According to his schedule, he is travelling to his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Sunday to inaugurate over 30 projects.

All seven Delhi MPs and eight newly-elected BJP MLAs have also been invited for the oath-taking ceremony, Rai told PTI.

No chief minister or political leaders from other states will be part of the event as it will be a "Delhi-specific" ceremony, Rai had said on Thursday.

Kejriwal, through front-page advertisements in newspapers, has urged Delhiites to attend his oath-taking ceremony as he is set to become the chief minister of Delhi for the third consecutive term.

He will take oath as Delhi chief minister along with his cabinet at 10 am on Sunday.&nbsp;

AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his swearing-in ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan on February 16, senior party leader Gopal Rai said on Friday.

AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his swearing-in ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan on February 16, senior party leader Gopal Rai said on Friday. Rai, the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party's Delhi unit, said a letter was sent to the prime minister on Friday morning. It was, however, not clear whether the prime minister would attend the swearing-in ceremony. According to his schedule, he is travelling to his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Sunday to inaugurate over 30 projects. All seven Delhi MPs and eight newly-elected BJP MLAs have also been invited for the oath-taking ceremony, Rai told PTI. No chief minister or political leaders from other states will be part of the event as it will be a "Delhi-specific" ceremony, Rai had said on Thursday. Kejriwal, through front-page advertisements in newspapers, has urged Delhiites to attend his oath-taking ceremony as he is set to become the chief minister of Delhi for the third consecutive term. He will take oath as Delhi chief minister along with his cabinet at 10 am on Sunday.

Kejriwal invites PM Modi for his swearing-in ceremony on Sunday

Pulwama attack: Timeline of events

Its been 8 years since Nirbhaya was gang raped and left to die. On Thursday, the hearing on the execution of the guilty rapists was postponed again.

Gravitas: Nirbhaya Case: Justice delayed is justice denied

The Supreme Court said today that Every Political Parties must publish the Criminal History of the Candidates on their Website.The Supreme Court said it would be mandatory for parties to upload the details of their candidates' criminal history on their websites, on social media and in newspapers within 48 hours of selection

SC's Strict Order: Parties must publish Criminal history of the candidates

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-upholds-constitutional-validity-of-scst-amendment-act-2018-279730">Supreme Court </a>on Thursday directed all political parties in the country to uploads details of pending cases against candidates with criminal backgrounds on their website.

India's top court also ordered the political parties to publish the details on social media platforms namely Twitter and Facebook and in at least one local vernacular and one national newspaper.

The court said political parties would have to specify reasons for selecting candidates having pending criminal cases against them on their website.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-seeks-reply-from-centre-and-states-on-plea-to-stop-deaths-in-borewells-278317">Supreme Court </a>said political parties shall submit a report of compliance to the Election Commission of India within 72 hrs of selecting the candidate with pending criminal cases, if the parties fail to do it then the election body would bring it to the notice of the apex court.&nbsp;

The bench added that it appears that there has been an alarming increase in criminalisation of politics in the last four general elections.

Supreme Court on Thursday directed all political parties in the country to uploads details of pending cases against candidates with criminal backgrounds on their website.

Supreme Court on Thursday directed all political parties in the country to uploads details of pending cases against candidates with criminal backgrounds on their website. India's top court also ordered the political parties to publish the details on social media platforms namely Twitter and Facebook and in at least one local vernacular and one national newspaper. The court said political parties would have to specify reasons for selecting candidates having pending criminal cases against them on their website. Supreme Court said political parties shall submit a report of compliance to the Election Commission of India within 72 hrs of selecting the candidate with pending criminal cases, if the parties fail to do it then the election body would bring it to the notice of the apex court. The bench added that it appears that there has been an alarming increase in criminalisation of politics in the last four general elections.

Upload criminal records of candidates on your website: Supreme Court directs political parties

An Indian man has killed himself fearing that he is infected with the coronavirus. The man was suffering from urinary tract infection. According to the data, China has recorded the highest jump in the coronavirus death toll in the last 24 hours. The death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 1,355 with over 60,000 infected, China's health ministry said.

Indian commits suicide suspecting coronavirus

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news