The Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed an outlay of Rs 22,000 crore for power and renewable energy sector for FY Budget 2020-21. This is the second budget for Sitharaman, who became the second woman finance minister after Indira Gandhi to do so in the history of independent India.

Union Budget 2020: Rs 22,000 Cr allocated for power and renewable energy sector

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Railway Budget 2020 speech, as part of the Union Budget speech, announced many projects for Indian Railways besides announcing&nbsp;as many as 150 private trains on the Indian Railways network via the PPP model. She also said that in the coming years more Tejas Express-style trains will be introduced on key tourist routes. 

Here are the highlights of the Railway Budget:

 
Sitharaman said that Indian Railways achieved the important target of eliminating the unmanned level crossings on its network which is a big way in enhancing safety on the Indian Railways network.

Large solar power capacity alongside rail tracks to be set up.

Tejas- type trains will be introduced to connect tourist destinations.

Delhi-Mumbai Expressway to be completed by 2023 and that the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway will also be launched.

150 private trains will be running on the Indian Railways network via the PPP model in the next few years. &nbsp;

Four stations will be redeveloped with the help of private sector.&nbsp;

Sitharaman announced that Indian Railways has managed to provide free high-speed WiFi connectivity at 1000s of railway stations across the country.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke of Modi government's aim to allow for Rs 100 lakh crore investment in infrastructure which includes model railway stations.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Railway Budget 2020 speech, as part of the Union Budget speech, announced many projects for Indian Railways besides announcing as many as 150 private trains on the Indian Railways network via the PPP model.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Railway Budget 2020 speech, as part of the Union Budget speech, announced many projects for Indian Railways besides announcing as many as 150 private trains on the Indian Railways network via the PPP model. She also said that in the coming years more Tejas Express-style trains will be introduced on key tourist routes. Here are the highlights of the Railway Budget: Sitharaman said that Indian Railways achieved the important target of eliminating the unmanned level crossings on its network which is a big way in enhancing safety on the Indian Railways network. Large solar power capacity alongside rail tracks to be set up. Tejas- type trains will be introduced to connect tourist destinations. Delhi-Mumbai Expressway to be completed by 2023 and that the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway will also be launched. 150 private trains will be running on the Indian Railways network via the PPP model in the next few years. Four stations will be redeveloped with the help of private sector. Sitharaman announced that Indian Railways has managed to provide free high-speed WiFi connectivity at 1000s of railway stations across the country. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke of Modi government's aim to allow for Rs 100 lakh crore investment in infrastructure which includes model railway stations.

Railway Budget 2020 highlights: New trains, investments announced 

The Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting Union Budget for FY 2020-21 announced completely electronic registration of charity institutions. Also, to claim exemptions for donations easily, donations made to charity institutions will now be pre-filled in Income Tax return form.

Union Budget 2020: Charity institutions registration made completely electronic

The Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting Union Budget for FY 2020-21 announced the new income tax slab rate. She announced, "Twenty per cent tax for individuals annually earning between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 12.5 lakh, 25 per cent for income between Rs 12.5 lakh and 15 lakh, 30 per cent for above Rs 15 lakh income under the new slab," For those who are earning upto Rs 5 lakh in a year will pay no tax, "For income between Rs 7.5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh per annum, the tax rate has been reduced to 15 per cent from 20 per cent and 10 per cent tax for income between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh per anum for those who forego deductions and exemptions. This is the second budget for Sitharaman, who became the second woman finance minister after Indira Gandhi to do so in the history of independent India.

Union Budget 2020: Relief for Indian taxpayers

The Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting Union Budget for FY 2020-21 said, We have estimated nominal growth of GDP for the year 2020-21 on the trends available at 10%. This is the second budget for Sitharaman, who became the second woman finance minister after Indira Gandhi to do so in the history of independent India.

Nirmala Sitharaman: Fiscal deficit for FY 2020-21 pegged at 3.5% | Union Budget 2020

Five Indians - locked inside a detention centre in the state of Louisiana, United States are on a hunger strike. According to reports, they have been detained despite the fact they have formal sponsors for their stay.&nbsp;

These Indians are at the La Salle detention centre and have been on a hunger strike for 90 days now. Those under detention include four Hindus and one Sikh who seek asylum.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that these Indian under detention are being force-fed by the officials. The United Nations says that force-feeding amounts to torture and is a medically unethical practice.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-detention-of-illegal-immigrants-a-political-hot-potato-277854">Detention of illegal immigrants a political hot potato</a>

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This is not the first time that Indians have resorted to a hunger strike under detention.

Under Trump administration, border officials have begun implementing a policy of mandatory detention for asylum seekers - but they have the authority to release them.

According to US government data, more Indians are now trying to enter America illegally. The Trump administration, however, is determined to keep the immigration numbers down. The rejections have shot up.&nbsp;

Between 2015 and 2017, more than seven thousand Indians were sent back from the US to India.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-the-highest-rate-of-children-in-detention-centres-un-study-263214">US has the highest rate of children in detention centres - UN study</a>

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Under Donald Trump, American detention centres are quicky gaining a notorious reputation for their inhumane conditions.&nbsp;

Last year, the United Nations Human Rights chief said that she was appalled by the conditions in which America detained people. &nbsp;

Under Trump, over 24 immigrants have died in custody. At least four others died shortly after they were released.

Five Indians - locked inside a detention centre in the state of Louisiana, United States are on a hunger strike. According to reports, they have been detained despite the fact they have formal sponsors for their stay.

Five Indians - locked inside a detention centre in the state of Louisiana, United States are on a hunger strike. According to reports, they have been detained despite the fact they have formal sponsors for their stay. These Indians are at the La Salle detention centre and have been on a hunger strike for 90 days now. Those under detention include four Hindus and one Sikh who seek asylum. Reports suggest that these Indian under detention are being force-fed by the officials. The United Nations says that force-feeding amounts to torture and is a medically unethical practice. Also read: Detention of illegal immigrants a political hot potato × This is not the first time that Indians have resorted to a hunger strike under detention. Under Trump administration, border officials have begun implementing a policy of mandatory detention for asylum seekers - but they have the authority to release them. According to US government data, more Indians are now trying to enter America illegally. The Trump administration, however, is determined to keep the immigration numbers down. The rejections have shot up. Between 2015 and 2017, more than seven thousand Indians were sent back from the US to India. Also read: US has the highest rate of children in detention centres - UN study × Under Donald Trump, American detention centres are quicky gaining a notorious reputation for their inhumane conditions. Last year, the United Nations Human Rights chief said that she was appalled by the conditions in which America detained people. Under Trump, over 24 immigrants have died in custody. At least four others died shortly after they were released.

Five Indians in American detention camps on hunger strike for over 2 months: Report 

The Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting Union Budget for FY 2020-21. This is the second budget for Sitharaman, who became the second woman finance minister after Indira Gandhi to do so in the history of independent India.

Know how stock market is reacting to Budget 2020

On a day when Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated - Two young men made the news for the wrong reasons. Poles apart in their ideology, they represent a young India that should worry all of us. Some food for thought from Palki S Upadhyay.

Gravitas: Food for Thought: The story of 2 young men

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament.

"The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law. It has fulfilled wishes of our founding fathers including Mahatma Gandhi," he said.

He also said that debate and discussion on any issue strengthen democracy while violence during protests weaken it.

In a reference to abrogation of Article 370, Kovind said there is happiness among people of India that people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have got rights on par with the rest of the country. 
&nbsp; 
The President said Parliament has created a record in the first seven months of the new government headed by Narendra Modi by enacting several landmark legislations. 
&nbsp; 
"My government is taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade and this century as India's century," he said.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law. It has fulfilled wishes of our founding fathers including Mahatma Gandhi," he said. He also said that debate and discussion on any issue strengthen democracy while violence during protests weaken it. In a reference to abrogation of Article 370, Kovind said there is happiness among people of India that people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have got rights on par with the rest of the country. The President said Parliament has created a record in the first seven months of the new government headed by Narendra Modi by enacting several landmark legislations. "My government is taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade and this century as India's century," he said.

President Ramnath Kovid hails Citizenship Amendment Act, calls it a  'historic law'

Marking the beginning of the Budget Session of the Lok Sabha, President Ramnath Kovind addressed the joint sitting of Parliament and said that violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country.

"My govt taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade," said&nbsp;Kovind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-opposers-refuse-to-see-persecution-of-religious-minorities-in-pakistan-pm-modi-277068">Also read: CAA opposers refuse to see persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan — PM Modi</a>

He added that the government is clearly of the view that mutual discussions and debates further strengthen democracy.

"At the same time, any kind of violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country," he said. ​

Addressing the joint sitting of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, President Kovind said, "Our constitution expects from this Parliament and every member present in this House to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the countrymen and make necessary laws for them, keeping national interest paramount."

"The abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution through two-thirds majority by both the Houses of Parliament is not only historic but it has also paved the way for equal development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh."&nbsp;

"The mature way in which the countrymen behaved after the Supreme Court's decision on Ramjanmabhoomi is also praiseworthy," the President said.

Calling this decade as India's decade President Kovind said that "India has made significant improvement in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking. The government runs on "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas" and policies have been implemented without any religious bias." ​

Marking the beginning of the Budget Session of the Lok Sabha, President Ramnath Kovind addressed the joint sitting of Parliament and said that violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country.

Marking the beginning of the Budget Session of the Lok Sabha, President Ramnath Kovind addressed the joint sitting of Parliament and said that violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country. "My govt taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade," said Kovind. Also read: CAA opposers refuse to see persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan — PM Modi He added that the government is clearly of the view that mutual discussions and debates further strengthen democracy. "At the same time, any kind of violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country," he said. Addressing the joint sitting of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, President Kovind said, "Our constitution expects from this Parliament and every member present in this House to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the countrymen and make necessary laws for them, keeping national interest paramount." "The abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution through two-thirds majority by both the Houses of Parliament is not only historic but it has also paved the way for equal development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh." "The mature way in which the countrymen behaved after the Supreme Court's decision on Ramjanmabhoomi is also praiseworthy," the President said. Calling this decade as India's decade President Kovind said that "India has made significant improvement in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking. The government runs on "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas" and policies have been implemented without any religious bias."

Violence in name of protests weakens country: President Ramnath Kovind

A student from Kerala has been diagnosed with the Wuhan coronavirus. How does the Indian government preparing to deal with this threat? Palki S Upadhyay has the details.

Gravitas: China's deadly virus reaches India

The BJP on Friday released its manifesto for the Delhi assembly polls, promising wheat flour at Rs 2 per kg for the poor, cycles and scooties for girl students as well as an 10 per cent increase in the health and education budget annually.

The BJP, in its 'Sankalp Patra 2020' (manifesto), also said it would focus on women empowerment, traders, infrastructure development and housing for all by 2022.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said the outgoing AAP government's subsidy schemes for power and water will be continued by his party if it is voted to power.

The 'Sankalp Patra' was released at the Delhi BJP office by Union minister Nitin Gadkari, election in-charge Prakash Javadekar and manifesto committee convener Harsh Vardhan.

Party MPs Vijay Goel, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri, Hans Raj Hans and Gautam Gambhir were also present.

The manifesto booklet also created a flutter as it mentioned Raj Kumar Chauhan as the manifesto committee's co-convener, when he has joined the Congress.

The BJP will run the "bullet train" of development in the national capital, Gadkari told reporters.

"BJP's history is linked to Delhi. The future of Delhi will be changed by the BJP," the Union minister said.

Supply of clean drinking water to every household will be ensured when the BJP comes to power, the manifesto stated.

In the document, the BJP asserted that as soon as it comes to power, it will implement the Modi government's Ayushman Bharat health scheme in Delhi.

City BJP chief Tiwari said each poor family will be provided good quality, subsidised 'atta' (wheat flour) at a rate of Rs 2 per kilogram.

The BJP will bring an ambitious 'Samridh Delhi Infrastructure Scheme', with a provision of Rs 10,000 crore, to ensure "focussed and priority" development of roads, flyovers, foot over-bridges and other key infrastructure projects, the manifesto stated.

The manifesto promises to set up a 'Colonies Development Board' for undertaking development of various civic amenities.

It also said that 10 lakh offices and shops of traders in Delhi will be converted from leasehold to freehold on priority basis.

"Necessary changes will also be made in the existing law to provide relief to traders from the ceiling drive," Tiwari said.

In order to improve connectivity in Delhi, 10,000 new green buses will be added to the public transport. Double decker buses will also be introduced with video and free Wi-Fi schemes, the party promises.

High quality free Wi-Fi will be provided on public transport vehicles and at stations and bus stops, it said.

The AAP government has launched a free Wi-Fi scheme that provides 1.5 GB data and the services is being expanded.

"We will ensure access to high quality health services for the people of Delhi by increasing the health budget by 10 per cent every year," the BJP said in its 'Sankalp Patra'.

The manifesto also promised 400 health and wellness centres under Ayushman Bharat and a 'Mission Zero' to check dengue, chikungunya and malaria.

It said an annual health screening will be conducted for every citizen and a 'Smar Health Card', with fully digitised information, will be issued.

The BJP, which has been slamming the Kejriwal government for failing to fulfil its promises to open new schools and colleges, said it will open 200 new schools and 10 new colleges.

The education budget will be increased by 10 percent every year, the party said.

The manifesto also promised quality power supply and added that the BJP will ensure annual audit of all power companies.

"We will ensure adequate and affordable availability of power to residents of JJ clusters by installing Suryajyoti Domes," it said.

The manifesto also promises to evolve a comprehensive strategy to combat air pollution in Delhi.

Installing WAYU equipment at polluted traffic junctions, 'Pari-Yantra' air purification systems on rooftops of public buses, incentivising use of electric vehicles and setting up charging stations, are also among the BJP's promises.

Scientifically designed barriers to prevent schoolchildren from air and noise pollution, vapur recovery systems at petrol pumps to prevent benzene pollution, are among the measures the BJP will take to combat air pollution, the manifesto said.

The manifesto also listed various promises for women empowerment and safety, including for girls born in poor families.

It said a fixed amount would be deposited in an account on the birth of the first two girls in every economically weaker family so that they receive Rs 2 lakh after attaining 21 years.

Girls belonging to poor families studying in class 9-12 will be provided free bicycle while those pursuing higher education will be provided electric scooty, Tiwari said.

Free sanitary napkins for school girls, a women security cell at the chief minister's office, more fast track courts for redressal of crimes against women, Rani Laxmi Bai Suraksha

Yojna, deployment of women home guards and CCTV cameras at crowded areas, and parity of wages, are some other promises made by the BJP in its manifesto.

Tiwari also said that BJP will ensure job security of contract workers, provide arrears to sanitation workers, create 10 lakh job opportunities, fill the vacant government posts, if it comes to power in Delhi.&nbsp;

The BJP on Friday released its manifesto for the Delhi assembly polls, promising wheat flour at Rs 2 per kg for the poor, cycles and scooties for girl students as well as an 10 per cent increase in the health and education budget annually.

The BJP on Friday released its manifesto for the Delhi assembly polls, promising wheat flour at Rs 2 per kg for the poor, cycles and scooties for girl students as well as an 10 per cent increase in the health and education budget annually. The BJP, in its 'Sankalp Patra 2020' (manifesto), also said it would focus on women empowerment, traders, infrastructure development and housing for all by 2022. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said the outgoing AAP government's subsidy schemes for power and water will be continued by his party if it is voted to power. The 'Sankalp Patra' was released at the Delhi BJP office by Union minister Nitin Gadkari, election in-charge Prakash Javadekar and manifesto committee convener Harsh Vardhan. Party MPs Vijay Goel, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Ramesh Bidhuri, Hans Raj Hans and Gautam Gambhir were also present. The manifesto booklet also created a flutter as it mentioned Raj Kumar Chauhan as the manifesto committee's co-convener, when he has joined the Congress. The BJP will run the "bullet train" of development in the national capital, Gadkari told reporters. "BJP's history is linked to Delhi. The future of Delhi will be changed by the BJP," the Union minister said. Supply of clean drinking water to every household will be ensured when the BJP comes to power, the manifesto stated. In the document, the BJP asserted that as soon as it comes to power, it will implement the Modi government's Ayushman Bharat health scheme in Delhi. City BJP chief Tiwari said each poor family will be provided good quality, subsidised 'atta' (wheat flour) at a rate of Rs 2 per kilogram. The BJP will bring an ambitious 'Samridh Delhi Infrastructure Scheme', with a provision of Rs 10,000 crore, to ensure "focussed and priority" development of roads, flyovers, foot over-bridges and other key infrastructure projects, the manifesto stated. The manifesto promises to set up a 'Colonies Development Board' for undertaking development of various civic amenities. It also said that 10 lakh offices and shops of traders in Delhi will be converted from leasehold to freehold on priority basis. "Necessary changes will also be made in the existing law to provide relief to traders from the ceiling drive," Tiwari said. In order to improve connectivity in Delhi, 10,000 new green buses will be added to the public transport. Double decker buses will also be introduced with video and free Wi-Fi schemes, the party promises. High quality free Wi-Fi will be provided on public transport vehicles and at stations and bus stops, it said. The AAP government has launched a free Wi-Fi scheme that provides 1.5 GB data and the services is being expanded. "We will ensure access to high quality health services for the people of Delhi by increasing the health budget by 10 per cent every year," the BJP said in its 'Sankalp Patra'. The manifesto also promised 400 health and wellness centres under Ayushman Bharat and a 'Mission Zero' to check dengue, chikungunya and malaria. It said an annual health screening will be conducted for every citizen and a 'Smar Health Card', with fully digitised information, will be issued. The BJP, which has been slamming the Kejriwal government for failing to fulfil its promises to open new schools and colleges, said it will open 200 new schools and 10 new colleges. The education budget will be increased by 10 percent every year, the party said. The manifesto also promised quality power supply and added that the BJP will ensure annual audit of all power companies. "We will ensure adequate and affordable availability of power to residents of JJ clusters by installing Suryajyoti Domes," it said. The manifesto also promises to evolve a comprehensive strategy to combat air pollution in Delhi. Installing WAYU equipment at polluted traffic junctions, 'Pari-Yantra' air purification systems on rooftops of public buses, incentivising use of electric vehicles and setting up charging stations, are also among the BJP's promises. Scientifically designed barriers to prevent schoolchildren from air and noise pollution, vapur recovery systems at petrol pumps to prevent benzene pollution, are among the measures the BJP will take to combat air pollution, the manifesto said. The manifesto also listed various promises for women empowerment and safety, including for girls born in poor families. It said a fixed amount would be deposited in an account on the birth of the first two girls in every economically weaker family so that they receive Rs 2 lakh after attaining 21 years. Girls belonging to poor families studying in class 9-12 will be provided free bicycle while those pursuing higher education will be provided electric scooty, Tiwari said. Free sanitary napkins for school girls, a women security cell at the chief minister's office, more fast track courts for redressal of crimes against women, Rani Laxmi Bai Suraksha Yojna, deployment of women home guards and CCTV cameras at crowded areas, and parity of wages, are some other promises made by the BJP in its manifesto. Tiwari also said that BJP will ensure job security of contract workers, provide arrears to sanitation workers, create 10 lakh job opportunities, fill the vacant government posts, if it comes to power in Delhi.

Delhi polls: BJP promises wheat flour at Rs 2 per kg, scooties for girl students 

Hours before the Finance Minister delivers the budget speech - The Economic Survey for 2020 has been released. A revival in growth is likely, but the Indian economy still faces some challenges. In this report, WION breaks down the good, bad and the ugly from the economic survey.

Gravitas: What does the 2020 economic survey say

A Defence security corps(DSC) staff shot his colleague dead at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, a high-security facility at Avadi, near Chennai, where battle tanks, other strategic assets and their components are manufactured and assembled. The DSC personnel are responsible for providing security at the Defence Ministry sites.

In the vicinity, there are several other Ordnance Factories such as Engine Factory (EFA), Ordnance Clothing Factory(OCF) and Defence Installations like Combat Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), Ordnance Depot etc.

Defence officials said that the incident occurred around 20 minutes past the midnight hour, when Nilambar Sinha, who was on duty with his INSAS rifle barged into the place where the guards were sleeping and opened fire. Nilambar Sinha hails from Tripura and is said to be recently posted the facility.

He is said to have fired seven bullets, of which three had hit Garjesh Kumar who was hailing from Himachal Pradesh. Three others who were said to be near Kumar hid for their safety and escaped.&nbsp;

After the shooting incident, armed with the INSAS rifle Nilambar Sinha is said to have roamed around the campus for a little over 30 minutes, after which he surrendered in the presence of higher officials. &nbsp;

The local police have been investigating the incident since the wee hours of the morning, while defence officials are conducting their internal enquiry on what would have led to this incident of fratricide.

A Defence security corps(DSC) staff shot his colleague dead at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, a high-security facility at Avadi, near Chennai, where battle tanks, other strategic assets and their components are manufactured and assembled.

A Defence security corps(DSC) staff shot his colleague dead at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, a high-security facility at Avadi, near Chennai, where battle tanks, other strategic assets and their components are manufactured and assembled. The DSC personnel are responsible for providing security at the Defence Ministry sites. In the vicinity, there are several other Ordnance Factories such as Engine Factory (EFA), Ordnance Clothing Factory(OCF) and Defence Installations like Combat Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), Ordnance Depot etc. Defence officials said that the incident occurred around 20 minutes past the midnight hour, when Nilambar Sinha, who was on duty with his INSAS rifle barged into the place where the guards were sleeping and opened fire. Nilambar Sinha hails from Tripura and is said to be recently posted the facility. He is said to have fired seven bullets, of which three had hit Garjesh Kumar who was hailing from Himachal Pradesh. Three others who were said to be near Kumar hid for their safety and escaped. After the shooting incident, armed with the INSAS rifle Nilambar Sinha is said to have roamed around the campus for a little over 30 minutes, after which he surrendered in the presence of higher officials. The local police have been investigating the incident since the wee hours of the morning, while defence officials are conducting their internal enquiry on what would have led to this incident of fratricide.

Security personnel guns down colleague at Defence facility near Chennai

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

The virus that has claimed over 200 lives has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation. Scientists suspect that the virus originated from bats and spread further at China's Hunan seafood market that deals with various types of exotic animal meat, after which it spread to humans.

Amidst intense screening of passengers arriving at India’s major International airports, customs officials had stepped up vigil based on information that exotic species are likely to be smuggled into the country by a passenger arriving from Bangkok. On Friday morning, Customs officials had intercepted Ibrahim Shah, a Chennai resident who had arrived by Thai Airways flight TG337, after he was found to be moving in a suspicious manner while collecting his checked-in black stroller bag.&nbsp;

Examination of his bag revealed two plastic containers and tiffin boxes that were concealed among chocolates and wafers. The containers carried species of exotic mammals, rodents and reptiles. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials identified the species as Meerkat, Fat tail gerbil, Sphynx rat, Albinopacman frog, Tarantula spider, chameleon and green iguanas.&nbsp;

<img alt="Exotic rat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b20cc83c-81ca-4ee6-b95e-24bd3c76251c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_16.jpg" />

<img alt="Tarantula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c7241e4-2b53-456f-9b39-368725591a16" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_19.jpg" />

<img alt="Exotic frog" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f15e7a7-f3b5-49e1-bf7f-0164a737ea3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_17.jpg" />

“We are exercising extra caution at Chennai airport amid the Coronavirus outbreak that’s become a global issue now. Since the virus is believed to have originated from certain types of animals, we have ensured that our staff handle the seized animals while wearing adequate protective equipment. They have been issued gloves, masks and after temporarily quarantining the animals in the airport, they will be deported to the country of origin within a day” Commissioner of Customs, Rajan Chaudhary told WION.&nbsp;

Ibrahim Shah told Customs officials that unknown persons had handed over the bag to him outside the Bangkok airport, along with instructions to hand it over to a person outside the Chennai airport. Despite Ibrahim being taken outside the airport for handing over the bag, no-one seemed to have turned up.&nbsp;

Thirteen animals that fall under seven species were seized under the provisions of Customs Act 1962 with FT (D&amp;R) Act.&nbsp;

A team of Veterinary doctors from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park inspected the animals and certified that they are in a healthy condition.&nbsp;

Animal Quarantine officials recommended to deport the wildlife species as the passenger did a no-objection certificate or the necessary license for import.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus.

Seizure and quarantine of exotic pets that are meant to be smuggled into India are quite common occurrences for customs officials at the Chennai International Airport, but officials now are being extra-cautious in dealing with smuggled animals, amidst the growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus. The virus that has claimed over 200 lives has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organisation. Scientists suspect that the virus originated from bats and spread further at China's Hunan seafood market that deals with various types of exotic animal meat, after which it spread to humans. Amidst intense screening of passengers arriving at India’s major International airports, customs officials had stepped up vigil based on information that exotic species are likely to be smuggled into the country by a passenger arriving from Bangkok. On Friday morning, Customs officials had intercepted Ibrahim Shah, a Chennai resident who had arrived by Thai Airways flight TG337, after he was found to be moving in a suspicious manner while collecting his checked-in black stroller bag. Examination of his bag revealed two plastic containers and tiffin boxes that were concealed among chocolates and wafers. The containers carried species of exotic mammals, rodents and reptiles. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials identified the species as Meerkat, Fat tail gerbil, Sphynx rat, Albinopacman frog, Tarantula spider, chameleon and green iguanas. “We are exercising extra caution at Chennai airport amid the Coronavirus outbreak that’s become a global issue now. Since the virus is believed to have originated from certain types of animals, we have ensured that our staff handle the seized animals while wearing adequate protective equipment. They have been issued gloves, masks and after temporarily quarantining the animals in the airport, they will be deported to the country of origin within a day” Commissioner of Customs, Rajan Chaudhary told WION. Ibrahim Shah told Customs officials that unknown persons had handed over the bag to him outside the Bangkok airport, along with instructions to hand it over to a person outside the Chennai airport. Despite Ibrahim being taken outside the airport for handing over the bag, no-one seemed to have turned up. Thirteen animals that fall under seven species were seized under the provisions of Customs Act 1962 with FT (D&R) Act. A team of Veterinary doctors from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park inspected the animals and certified that they are in a healthy condition. Animal Quarantine officials recommended to deport the wildlife species as the passenger did a no-objection certificate or the necessary license for import.

Coronavirus outbreak: Customs officials take extra precautions while seizing exotic pets

Three terrorists killed after a group of at least four militants opened fire at a police team at a toll plaza on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway in the wee hours here on Friday, officials said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-2-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-awantipora-276529">Jammu and Kashmir: 2 terrorists killed in encounter between security forces and terrorists in Awantipora</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Mukesh Singh, IG Jammu: Three terrorists have been killed in the encounter(on Jammu-Srinagar highway) <a href="https://t.co/dap28B8DQr">https://t.co/dap28B8DQr</a> <a href="https://t.co/AUsfkx1RNx">pic.twitter.com/AUsfkx1RNx</a>
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Mukesh Singh IG Jammu said a policeman also received injuries&nbsp;in the attack.&nbsp;

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Mukesh Singh, IG Jammu: Around 5 am, police stopped a truck for checking, the militants hidden inside started shooting. One police personnel was also injured. There is a possibility of atleast 4 more terrorists hidden in the area. Area has been cordoned&amp;search operation is on. <a href="https://t.co/kYwc41Sybi">https://t.co/kYwc41Sybi</a> <a href="https://t.co/PqNBBCKVFn">pic.twitter.com/PqNBBCKVFn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1223086155857399810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-voice-call-sms-services-to-be-restored-for-prepaid-mobile-users-275067">Jammu and Kashmir: Voice call, SMS services to be restored for prepaid mobile users</a>

"Around 5 am, police stopped a truck for checking, the terrorists who were hidden inside started shooting," Singh said. The incident took place in Ban area of Nagrota. He also said that there is a possibility of at least four more terrorists hiding in the area.&nbsp;

"Area has been cordoned off and the search operation is on."

Following the attack, the highway was shut down and schools in Nagrota were also closed as a precautionary measure. &nbsp;

This is the first attack in the valley after the Centre revoked Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state on August 5 last year.&nbsp;

Nagrota, which has an Indian Army cantonment, is the same area where terrorists disguised as policemen stormed a military camp and killed seven soldiers.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Three terrorists killed after a group of at least four militants opened fire at a police team at a toll plaza on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway in the wee hours here on Friday, officials said.

Three terrorists killed after a group of at least four militants opened fire at a police team at a toll plaza on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway in the wee hours here on Friday, officials said. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: 2 terrorists killed in encounter between security forces and terrorists in Awantipora #UPDATE Mukesh Singh, IG Jammu: Three terrorists have been killed in the encounter(on Jammu-Srinagar highway) https://t.co/dap28B8DQr pic.twitter.com/AUsfkx1RNx — ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2020 × Mukesh Singh IG Jammu said a policeman also received injuries in the attack. Mukesh Singh, IG Jammu: Around 5 am, police stopped a truck for checking, the militants hidden inside started shooting. One police personnel was also injured. There is a possibility of atleast 4 more terrorists hidden in the area. Area has been cordoned&search operation is on. https://t.co/kYwc41Sybi pic.twitter.com/PqNBBCKVFn — ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2020 × Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Voice call, SMS services to be restored for prepaid mobile users "Around 5 am, police stopped a truck for checking, the terrorists who were hidden inside started shooting," Singh said. The incident took place in Ban area of Nagrota. He also said that there is a possibility of at least four more terrorists hiding in the area. "Area has been cordoned off and the search operation is on." Following the attack, the highway was shut down and schools in Nagrota were also closed as a precautionary measure. This is the first attack in the valley after the Centre revoked Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state on August 5 last year. Nagrota, which has an Indian Army cantonment, is the same area where terrorists disguised as policemen stormed a military camp and killed seven soldiers. (with inputs from agencies)

Three terrorists killed in attack in Jammu; one cop injured

After Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, an IIT Kanpur graduate Arvind Krishna is set to become the third Indian to head a US-based multinational company.

Arvind Krishna will take over as chief executive officer of International Business Machines Corp (IBM) in April.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-defence-chief-rejects-amazons-accusations-of-bias-in-cloud-contract-262268">United States defence chief rejects Amazon's accusations of bias in cloud contract</a>

Arvind has an undergraduate degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK) and a PhD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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Breaking news: 
 
Arvind Krishna elected as IBM Chief Executive Officer 
Jim Whitehurst elected IBM President 
Ginni Rometty continues as Executive Chairman of the Board 
 
Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/h3YxxNZIPq">https://t.co/h3YxxNZIPq</a> <a href="https://t.co/AbcLzM4dbK">pic.twitter.com/AbcLzM4dbK</a>
— IBM (@IBM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IBM/status/1223026975171928069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I am thrilled and humbled to be elected as the next Chief Executive Officer of IBM, and appreciate the confidence that Ginni and the Board have placed in me," said Krishna.&nbsp;

Krishna, 57, was a principal architect of the company’s purchase of Red Hat, which was completed last year.

As of now, Senior Vice President at IBM, Krishna's duties incorporate the IBM Cloud, IBM Security and Cognitive Applications business, and IBM Research.&nbsp;

Krishna who joined IBM in 1990 was head supervisor of IBM's Systems and Technology Group's improvement and assembling association. Preceding that, he manufactured and drove a large number of IBM's information related organizations.

Krishna has replaced longtime CEO Virginia Rometty.

"Arvind is the right CEO for the next era at IBM," the IBM statement quoted outgoing CEO Rometty as saying.

"He is a brilliant technologist who has played a significant role in developing our key technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud, quantum computing, and blockchain. He is also a superb operational leader, able to win today while building the business of tomorrow," she said.

"Arvind has grown IBM's Cloud and Cognitive Software business and led the largest acquisition in the company's history. Through his multiple experiences running businesses in IBM, Arvind has built an outstanding track record of bold transformations and proven business results and is an authentic, values-driven leader. He is well-positioned to lead IBM and its clients into the cloud and cognitive era," Rometty further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, an IIT Kanpur graduate Arvind Krishna is set to become the third Indian to head a US-based multinational company.

After Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, an IIT Kanpur graduate Arvind Krishna is set to become the third Indian to head a US-based multinational company. Arvind Krishna will take over as chief executive officer of International Business Machines Corp (IBM) in April. Also read: United States defence chief rejects Amazon's accusations of bias in cloud contract Arvind has an undergraduate degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK) and a PhD from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Breaking news: Arvind Krishna elected as IBM Chief Executive Officer Jim Whitehurst elected IBM President Ginni Rometty continues as Executive Chairman of the Board Learn more: https://t.co/h3YxxNZIPq pic.twitter.com/AbcLzM4dbK — IBM (@IBM) January 30, 2020 × "I am thrilled and humbled to be elected as the next Chief Executive Officer of IBM, and appreciate the confidence that Ginni and the Board have placed in me," said Krishna. Krishna, 57, was a principal architect of the company’s purchase of Red Hat, which was completed last year. As of now, Senior Vice President at IBM, Krishna's duties incorporate the IBM Cloud, IBM Security and Cognitive Applications business, and IBM Research. Krishna who joined IBM in 1990 was head supervisor of IBM's Systems and Technology Group's improvement and assembling association. Preceding that, he manufactured and drove a large number of IBM's information related organizations. Krishna has replaced longtime CEO Virginia Rometty. "Arvind is the right CEO for the next era at IBM," the IBM statement quoted outgoing CEO Rometty as saying. "He is a brilliant technologist who has played a significant role in developing our key technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud, quantum computing, and blockchain. He is also a superb operational leader, able to win today while building the business of tomorrow," she said. "Arvind has grown IBM's Cloud and Cognitive Software business and led the largest acquisition in the company's history. Through his multiple experiences running businesses in IBM, Arvind has built an outstanding track record of bold transformations and proven business results and is an authentic, values-driven leader. He is well-positioned to lead IBM and its clients into the cloud and cognitive era," Rometty further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Krishna, an IIT Kanpur graduate to take over as CEO of IBM

The Budget Session of the Indian Parliament commenced on Friday (January 31) with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two Houses of Parliament. Now all eyes will be on Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tomorrow as she will present her second budget as the country's finance minister. Trade pundits and businesses are waiting with a baited breath, expecting her to bail out the economy of the ongoing slump.

Expectations from the Indian Union Budget 2020

Amid the scare caused by the coronavirus outbreak in China, an Air India flight was sent to Wuhan on Friday to bring back the Indian students stuck in Hubei province, the epicentre of coronavirus.

First special flight , double decker jumbo 747 with 15 cabin crew and 5 cockpit crew had been departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport (T3), Delhi to Wuhan for the evacuation of Indians today at 12.30 pm.

A team of Five doctors from Ram Manohar Lohia hospital (RML) hospital, one paramedical staff from air India with prescribed medicine from doctors, masks, overcoats, packed food are boarded in the aircraft. A team of engineers ,security personnel are also there in this special aircraft.&nbsp;

<img alt="Air India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c68c312e-bd37-446c-b387-45daf5d1d471" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_25.jpg" />

This flight may return to Delhi from Wuhan (China) at 2am tomorrow. This double decker aircraft configured with 423 seats. Another special flight may depart from T3,Delhi tomorrow.

The procedure of screening and quarantine will comprise two steps. The first one will be at the Indira Gandhi International airport followed by quarantine at army facility in Manesar, an official said.

"If any individual is suspected to be infected, he/she will be shifted to the isolation ward at Base Hospital Delhi Cantonment," health official said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, The Indian Army has set up a quarantine facility in Manesar near Delhi to keep around 300 Indian students being evacuated from China's Hubei province in view of the outbreak of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Officials said the Indian Army has created the facility near Manesar where the students can be monitored for any signs of infection for two weeks by a qualified team of doctors and staff members.

Amid the scare caused by the coronavirus outbreak in China, an Air India flight was sent to Wuhan on Friday to bring back the Indian students stuck in Hubei province, the epicentre of coronavirus.

Amid the scare caused by the coronavirus outbreak in China, an Air India flight was sent to Wuhan on Friday to bring back the Indian students stuck in Hubei province, the epicentre of coronavirus. First special flight , double decker jumbo 747 with 15 cabin crew and 5 cockpit crew had been departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport (T3), Delhi to Wuhan for the evacuation of Indians today at 12.30 pm. A team of Five doctors from Ram Manohar Lohia hospital (RML) hospital, one paramedical staff from air India with prescribed medicine from doctors, masks, overcoats, packed food are boarded in the aircraft. A team of engineers ,security personnel are also there in this special aircraft. This flight may return to Delhi from Wuhan (China) at 2am tomorrow. This double decker aircraft configured with 423 seats. Another special flight may depart from T3,Delhi tomorrow. The procedure of screening and quarantine will comprise two steps. The first one will be at the Indira Gandhi International airport followed by quarantine at army facility in Manesar, an official said. "If any individual is suspected to be infected, he/she will be shifted to the isolation ward at Base Hospital Delhi Cantonment," health official said. Meanwhile, The Indian Army has set up a quarantine facility in Manesar near Delhi to keep around 300 Indian students being evacuated from China's Hubei province in view of the outbreak of coronavirus. Officials said the Indian Army has created the facility near Manesar where the students can be monitored for any signs of infection for two weeks by a qualified team of doctors and staff members.

China coronavirus outbreak: Air India flight leaves for Wuhan to bring back Indian students

A Delhi court on Friday deferred the execution of Nirbhaya convicts until further orders. The four convicts were scheduled to be executed on February 1, 2020.&nbsp;

Additional Sessions Judge Dharmender Rana passed the order on plea by the convicts seeking a stay on their execution that was supposed to take place tomorrow morning.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea filed by one of the four death row convicts.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-supreme-court-dismisses-curative-petition-i-hope-convicts-are-hanged-on-february-1-nirbhayas-mother-277536">I hope convicts are hanged on February 1 - Nirbhaya's mother</a>

The review plea filed earlier in the day was taken up for consideration in-chamber by a bench comprising Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna.&nbsp;

Pawan Gupta, on Friday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its earlier order which dismissed his juvenile plea. The apex court had on January 20, rejected Gupta's petition challenging a Delhi High Court order, which had dismissed his claim of being a juvenile at the time of the offence.&nbsp;

The top court had observed that there were no grounds to interfere with the High Court order. Earlier, Pawan had claimed that he was a juvenile at the time of the crime and that the Delhi High Court had ignored this fact.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-is-delay-tactic-to-avoid-execution-says-nirbhayas-mother-on-convicts-plea-in-supreme-court-275446">It is delay tactic to avoid execution, says Nirbhayas mother on convicts plea in Supreme Court</a>

Four convicts - Akshay Thakur, Mukesh Singh, Pawan Gupta, and Vinay Sharma - are facing execution on February 1. The case pertains to the gang-rape of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the chilling night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.

One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Delhi court on Friday deferred the execution of Nirbhaya convicts until further orders. The four convicts were scheduled to be executed on February 1, 2020. Additional Sessions Judge Dharmender Rana passed the order on plea by the convicts seeking a stay on their execution that was supposed to take place tomorrow morning.

A Delhi court on Friday deferred the execution of Nirbhaya convicts until further orders. The four convicts were scheduled to be executed on February 1, 2020. Additional Sessions Judge Dharmender Rana passed the order on plea by the convicts seeking a stay on their execution that was supposed to take place tomorrow morning. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea filed by one of the four death row convicts. Also read: I hope convicts are hanged on February 1 - Nirbhaya's mother The review plea filed earlier in the day was taken up for consideration in-chamber by a bench comprising Justices R Banumathi, Ashok Bhushan and A S Bopanna. Pawan Gupta, on Friday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its earlier order which dismissed his juvenile plea. The apex court had on January 20, rejected Gupta's petition challenging a Delhi High Court order, which had dismissed his claim of being a juvenile at the time of the offence. The top court had observed that there were no grounds to interfere with the High Court order. Earlier, Pawan had claimed that he was a juvenile at the time of the crime and that the Delhi High Court had ignored this fact. Also read: It is delay tactic to avoid execution, says Nirbhayas mother on convicts plea in Supreme Court Four convicts - Akshay Thakur, Mukesh Singh, Pawan Gupta, and Vinay Sharma - are facing execution on February 1. The case pertains to the gang-rape of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the chilling night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman died at a Singapore hospital a few days later. One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Nirbhaya gang-rape case: Delhi court defers convicts' execution until further orders

The two-day nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), demanding early wage revision settlement, will begin from Friday.

The early wage revision settlement has been due since November 1, 2017.

The bank employees unions on Thursday decided to go on with the strike after a meeting with the Indian Bank Association (IBA) remained inconclusive.

Around 10 lakh bank employees are expected to take part in the strike.

The two-day strike coincides with the Budget Session of the Parliament, which commences today. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her second Union Budget on Saturday.

Banks will also hold a strike on March 11, 12 and 13. Also, an indefinite strike will be held from April 1.

Services at several bank branches and ATMs could be affected due to the strike.

There are several demands to hold the strike including the merger of special allowance with basic pay, updation of pension, improvement in the family pension system, five-day banking, allocation of staff welfare fund based on operating profits and exemption from income tax on retiral benefits without a ceiling.

The two-day nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), demanding early wage revision settlement, will begin from Friday. The early wage revision settlement has been due since November 1, 2017.

The two-day nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), demanding early wage revision settlement, will begin from Friday. The early wage revision settlement has been due since November 1, 2017. The bank employees unions on Thursday decided to go on with the strike after a meeting with the Indian Bank Association (IBA) remained inconclusive. Around 10 lakh bank employees are expected to take part in the strike. The two-day strike coincides with the Budget Session of the Parliament, which commences today. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her second Union Budget on Saturday. Banks will also hold a strike on March 11, 12 and 13. Also, an indefinite strike will be held from April 1. Services at several bank branches and ATMs could be affected due to the strike. There are several demands to hold the strike including the merger of special allowance with basic pay, updation of pension, improvement in the family pension system, five-day banking, allocation of staff welfare fund based on operating profits and exemption from income tax on retiral benefits without a ceiling.

2-day nationwide bank strike to be held today

The man who took hostages of around 20 children between the age of 1 to 15 years has been shot dead by Uttar Pradesh police in an encounter. The accused is identified as Subhash Batham.

Indian police kill murder accused who held 23 children in hostage

Farrukhabad police shot and killed a man who held more than 20 children&nbsp;hostage,&nbsp;after staging a fake birthday party for his one-year-old daughter. Subhash Batham, the deceased criminal was accused of murder but had been out on bail.

The community later beat his wife to death, despite intervention from the police officers on site. Standoff between Batham and the police went for 10 hours before the cops forced their way into the building and killed him in a shootout. All the children were brought to safety.

Locals attacked Batham's wife with bricks and stones as she tried to flee. She was taken to the nearby hospital with head injuries and blood loss and later died of her injuries. Her involvement in the hostage situation is still unclear.

Also Read:&nbsp;

According to reports, the police attempted to convince him to surrender to several hours. Special forces were called in after the failed attempt of local law enforcement. Local residents stated that it was Batham's belief that the community was responsible for his arrest in the murder case and that this was an attempt to exact revenge.

One girl was allowed out after seven hours had passed, and Batham handed her to a neighbour from a balcony. He began shooting from the house after the police arrived at the scene. Two officers and a bystander were also injured in the shootout that soon followed.

According to reports, Batham had complained to the local District Magistrate about the lack of toilet facilities in his house, stating that he had been denied government housing. He tried to make his case by saying that he was a labourer and had an ailing mother who was forced to defecate in the open due to his current situation. 
&nbsp;

Farrukhabad police shot and killed a man who held more than 20 children hostage, after staging a fake birthday party for his one-year-old daughter. Subhash Batham, the deceased criminal was accused of murder but had been out on bail.

Farrukhabad police shot and killed a man who held more than 20 children hostage, after staging a fake birthday party for his one-year-old daughter. Subhash Batham, the deceased criminal was accused of murder but had been out on bail. The community later beat his wife to death, despite intervention from the police officers on site. Standoff between Batham and the police went for 10 hours before the cops forced their way into the building and killed him in a shootout. All the children were brought to safety. Locals attacked Batham's wife with bricks and stones as she tried to flee. She was taken to the nearby hospital with head injuries and blood loss and later died of her injuries. Her involvement in the hostage situation is still unclear. Also Read: According to reports, the police attempted to convince him to surrender to several hours. Special forces were called in after the failed attempt of local law enforcement. Local residents stated that it was Batham's belief that the community was responsible for his arrest in the murder case and that this was an attempt to exact revenge. One girl was allowed out after seven hours had passed, and Batham handed her to a neighbour from a balcony. He began shooting from the house after the police arrived at the scene. Two officers and a bystander were also injured in the shootout that soon followed. According to reports, Batham had complained to the local District Magistrate about the lack of toilet facilities in his house, stating that he had been denied government housing. He tried to make his case by saying that he was a labourer and had an ailing mother who was forced to defecate in the open due to his current situation.

Farrukhabad police killed hostage-taker whose wife was later beaten to death

Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, Pawan Gupta, on Friday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-death-row-convict-challenges-rejection-of-mercy-petition-in-supreme-court-276531">filed a review petition</a> in the Supreme Court challenging its earlier order which dismissed his juvenile plea. The apex court had on January 20, rejected Gupta's petition challenging a Delhi High Court order, which had dismissed his claim of being a juvenile at the time of the offence.&nbsp;

The top court had observed that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-nirbhaya-convict-files-mercy-plea-with-president-277402">there were no grounds</a> to interfere with the High Court order. Earlier, Pawan had claimed that he was a juvenile at the time of the crime and that the Delhi High Court had ignored this fact.

AP Singh, the convict's lawyer, had stated that Pawan's age was 17 years, 1 month and 20 days when the offence was committed, that's why his role should be considered as a juvenile in the case. The Delhi High Court had rejected the review petition of Pawan and he had challenged this before the apex court on January 17.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nibhaya-case-death-row-convict-claims-he-was-juvenile-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-275125">Nibhaya case: Death-row convict claims he was juvenile, Supreme Court to hear plea</a>

Meanwhile, a plea is also being heard in a Delhi court seeking a stay on the execution of the convicts contending that none of those convicted in a case can be hanged until all of them have exhausted all legal options available to them.

Four convicts - Akshay Thakur, Mukesh Singh, Pawan Gupta, and Vinay Sharma - are facing execution on February 1. The case pertains to the gang-rape of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the chilling night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.

One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.

Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, Pawan Gupta, on Friday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its earlier order which dismissed his juvenile plea.

Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, Pawan Gupta, on Friday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its earlier order which dismissed his juvenile plea. The apex court had on January 20, rejected Gupta's petition challenging a Delhi High Court order, which had dismissed his claim of being a juvenile at the time of the offence. The top court had observed that there were no grounds to interfere with the High Court order. Earlier, Pawan had claimed that he was a juvenile at the time of the crime and that the Delhi High Court had ignored this fact. AP Singh, the convict's lawyer, had stated that Pawan's age was 17 years, 1 month and 20 days when the offence was committed, that's why his role should be considered as a juvenile in the case. The Delhi High Court had rejected the review petition of Pawan and he had challenged this before the apex court on January 17. Also Read: Nibhaya case: Death-row convict claims he was juvenile, Supreme Court to hear plea Meanwhile, a plea is also being heard in a Delhi court seeking a stay on the execution of the convicts contending that none of those convicted in a case can be hanged until all of them have exhausted all legal options available to them. Four convicts - Akshay Thakur, Mukesh Singh, Pawan Gupta, and Vinay Sharma - are facing execution on February 1. The case pertains to the gang-rape of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the chilling night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman died at a Singapore hospital a few days later. One of the five adults accused, Ram Singh had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.

Nirbhaya convict to challenge SC order dismissing juvenility plea

The Budget Session of the Indian Parliament commenced on Friday (January 31) with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting of two Houses of Parliament. Indian President Kovind delivered a speech in the Central Hall of Parliament at 11 am. The Union Budget 2020-21 will be presented on Saturday (February 1). The first phase of the session will conclude on February 11, while the second part of the session will begin from March 2 and end on April 3.

Indian Union Budget Session 2020 commences today

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-fears-grip-chinas-borders-families-of-uk-citizens-barred-from-departing-as-they-hold-chinese-passports-277484">coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan</a>, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said.

Lohani said that the Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft will take off at 12 pm from Delhi today and will return by 2 am on Saturday. "We are sending a Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft. Around 400 Indians will be evacuated today from Wuhan in China by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-disinvestment-begins-modi-govt-invites-bids-for-100-stake-sale-276796">Air India</a> flight. It will take off at 12 pm today and will return by 2 am tomorrow," he added.

<img alt="CMD Ashwani Lohani" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40457b0e-386f-4ade-b624-2a28836753a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2824%29_4.jpg" /> 
[ Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Managing Director, Air India (Courtesy: ANI) ]

The flight will include all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-has-to-be-privatised-no-other-option-hardeep-puri-271260">necessary </a>resources like masks, medical equipment, packed food, prescribed medicines, along with a team of five doctors from the Health Ministry, and paramedical personnel from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/government-puts-100-of-air-india-on-sale-277092">Air India</a>. Twenty crew members, including 15 cabin crew and five cockpit crew will be on board. Lohani said that the team of doctors and crew will be led by Air India's Director of Operations Captain Amitabh Singh.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indigo-air-india-suspend-most-china-bound-flights-no-case-in-india-yet-277405">Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet</a>

Lohani said that further arrangements for the passengers upon their return to India will be done by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Health Ministry. China has imposed a lockdown in Wuhan following the outbreak of the virus.

Coronavirus has claimed the lives of as many as 213 people in China alone, while cases have been reported in several countries across the world. Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global pandemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in Australia, France, the US, and several Asian countries besides China

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said.

Air India special flight departing from Delhi on Friday will evacuate around 400 Indians trapped in the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan, the national carrier's Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani said. Lohani said that the Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft will take off at 12 pm from Delhi today and will return by 2 am on Saturday. "We are sending a Boeing 747 Jumbo aircraft. Around 400 Indians will be evacuated today from Wuhan in China by Air India flight. It will take off at 12 pm today and will return by 2 am tomorrow," he added. [ Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Managing Director, Air India (Courtesy: ANI) ] The flight will include all necessary resources like masks, medical equipment, packed food, prescribed medicines, along with a team of five doctors from the Health Ministry, and paramedical personnel from Air India. Twenty crew members, including 15 cabin crew and five cockpit crew will be on board. Lohani said that the team of doctors and crew will be led by Air India's Director of Operations Captain Amitabh Singh. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet Lohani said that further arrangements for the passengers upon their return to India will be done by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Health Ministry. China has imposed a lockdown in Wuhan following the outbreak of the virus. Coronavirus has claimed the lives of as many as 213 people in China alone, while cases have been reported in several countries across the world. Health authorities around the world are taking action to prevent a global pandemic as the virus continues to spread, with cases reported in Australia, France, the US, and several Asian countries besides China

Air India CMD says around 400 Indians to be evacuated from Wuhan

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