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Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said if a competition to make false promises is held in the country, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will win the first prize. He also alleged that the AAP leader had forgotten the promises he had made to the people of Delhi.

“If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten,” Shah said.

The Union minister was addressing a public meeting in West Delhi’s Matiala constituency ahead of the assembly polls here on February 8. “You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn’t bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn’t implement it here,” he said.

For four and a half years the chief minister kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done in Delhi, Shah said. “Now, you (Kejriwal) are saying that you developed Delhi in five years so ‘lage raho Kejriwal’,” he added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said if a competition to make false promises is held in the country, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will win the first prize.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said if a competition to make false promises is held in the country, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will win the first prize. He also alleged that the AAP leader had forgotten the promises he had made to the people of Delhi. “If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten,” Shah said. The Union minister was addressing a public meeting in West Delhi’s Matiala constituency ahead of the assembly polls here on February 8. “You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn’t bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn’t implement it here,” he said. For four and a half years the chief minister kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done in Delhi, Shah said. “Now, you (Kejriwal) are saying that you developed Delhi in five years so ‘lage raho Kejriwal’,” he added.

If competition to make false promises is held, Arvind Kejriwal will win first prize: Amit Shah

There are two things we all know about US President Donald Trump -&nbsp;first, he despises traditional media,&nbsp;and second, he absolutely loves social media.

The US President recently broke his own record of tweets by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/125-tweets-in-a-day-donald-trump-floods-twitter-with-impeachment-proceedings-276114">tweeting 125 times within 24 hours</a>.

Now, during an interview at the World Economic Forum, Trump claimed that he is number one on the social media site Facebook.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-reality-check-trumps-facebook-popularity-276214/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During an interview at Davos, Trump said, ''Well, I met him (Mark Zuckerberg), and he told me that I am number one in the world on&nbsp;Facebook''.

"Zuckerberg told me I'm number one on Facebook", Trump said, adding, "it is always nice to be number one".

The US president claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds the second position on Facebook. 
&nbsp; 
Trump has over 27 million followers (27, 266,004), the number which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi easily surpasses.

PM Modi has over 44 million followers (44,259,851).

Interestingly, Portugal&nbsp;football star Cristiano Ronaldo has over 123 million followers, while Colombian singer Shakira follows him with close to&nbsp;a hundred million followers.

Actor Vin Diesel makes the top three with a little over 94 million followers.

There are two things we all know about US President Donald Trump - first, he despises traditional media, and second, he absolutely loves social media. The US President recently broke his own record of tweets by tweeting 125 times within 24 hours.

There are two things we all know about US President Donald Trump - first, he despises traditional media, and second, he absolutely loves social media. The US President recently broke his own record of tweets by tweeting 125 times within 24 hours. Now, during an interview at the World Economic Forum, Trump claimed that he is number one on the social media site Facebook. During an interview at Davos, Trump said, ''Well, I met him (Mark Zuckerberg), and he told me that I am number one in the world on Facebook''. "Zuckerberg told me I'm number one on Facebook", Trump said, adding, "it is always nice to be number one". The US president claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds the second position on Facebook. Trump has over 27 million followers (27, 266,004), the number which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi easily surpasses. PM Modi has over 44 million followers (44,259,851). Interestingly, Portugal football star Cristiano Ronaldo has over 123 million followers, while Colombian singer Shakira follows him with close to a hundred million followers. Actor Vin Diesel makes the top three with a little over 94 million followers.

Now, Trump brags about beating PM Modi on Facebook

As the world is moving towards automation and digital world, cybercrimes and threats are also increasing and posing challenges in equal ratio, director-general of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) Sanjay Bahl said on Thursday.

Bahl was addressing cybersecurity heads, IT employees, police officers from across the country, students and the public at the “Cyber Security Conclave 5.0 the Next Gen Threats and Solutions.”

The conclave was organised by the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) in association with Cyberabad police, according to an official press release.

Bahl also presented CERT-Ins priorities that focussed on collecting, analysing and disseminating cyber threat intelligence to benefit all stake-holders who are potentially impacted by these attacks, the release said.

Cyberabad police commissioner V C Sajjanar said nowadays the complaints on cyber crimes are more than the usual crimes.

The complaints are more related to social media, online financial offences and data theft, and the loss due to cyber crimes is immense and poses tough challenges to the police, he said.

SCSC vice-chairman Bharani Kumar Aroll said the digital transformation happening across India is changing the way businesses operate efficiently and effectively and also brings with it risks.

He presented statistics on cyber attacks and also talked about the threat landscape and the promising future of cybersecurity, the release added.

As the world is moving towards automation and digital world, cybercrimes and threats are also increasing and posing challenges in equal ratio, director-general of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) Sanjay Bahl said on Thursday.

As the world is moving towards automation and digital world, cybercrimes and threats are also increasing and posing challenges in equal ratio, director-general of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) Sanjay Bahl said on Thursday. Bahl was addressing cybersecurity heads, IT employees, police officers from across the country, students and the public at the “Cyber Security Conclave 5.0 the Next Gen Threats and Solutions.” The conclave was organised by the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) in association with Cyberabad police, according to an official press release. Bahl also presented CERT-Ins priorities that focussed on collecting, analysing and disseminating cyber threat intelligence to benefit all stake-holders who are potentially impacted by these attacks, the release said. Cyberabad police commissioner V C Sajjanar said nowadays the complaints on cyber crimes are more than the usual crimes. The complaints are more related to social media, online financial offences and data theft, and the loss due to cyber crimes is immense and poses tough challenges to the police, he said. SCSC vice-chairman Bharani Kumar Aroll said the digital transformation happening across India is changing the way businesses operate efficiently and effectively and also brings with it risks. He presented statistics on cyber attacks and also talked about the threat landscape and the promising future of cybersecurity, the release added.

Cyber crimes, threats loom large as world goes digital: Expert

India once again successfully test-fired the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Vishakhapatnam on Friday, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-test-fires-nuclear-capable-k-4-ballistic-missile-off-andhra-pradesh-coast-275344">Also Read: India test-fires nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile off Andhra Pradesh coast</a>

This is the second test launch in the last six&nbsp;days undertaken by India's defence forces, news wire ANI reported quoting government sources.

The missile developed by DRDO was testfired from an underwater platform.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/eye-on-china-how-iafs-sukhoi-fighters-with-brahmos-cruise-missiles-can-shift-balance-in-indian-ocean-region-275502">Also Read: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in IOR</a>

The missile which has a strike range of 3,500 km was earlier fired last Sunday&nbsp;off the coast of Andhra Pradesh.

The missile is set to be put on&nbsp;Arihant submarine in order to boost India's maritime security.

India once again successfully test-fired the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Vishakhapatnam on Friday, reports said. Also Read: India test-fires nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile off Andhra Pradesh coast This is the second test launch in the last six days undertaken by India's defence forces, news wire ANI reported quoting government sources.

India once again successfully test-fired the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Vishakhapatnam on Friday, reports said. Also Read: India test-fires nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile off Andhra Pradesh coast This is the second test launch in the last six days undertaken by India's defence forces, news wire ANI reported quoting government sources. The missile developed by DRDO was testfired from an underwater platform. Also Read: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in IOR The missile which has a strike range of 3,500 km was earlier fired last Sunday off the coast of Andhra Pradesh. The missile is set to be put on Arihant submarine in order to boost India's maritime security.

In less than a week, India again successfully test-fires sea based K-4 ballistic missile

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US&nbsp;trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump cited trade barriers last year when removing India from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed zero tariffs on $5.6 billion of exports to the United States. In retaliation, India slapped higher tariffs on more than two dozens US&nbsp;products.

Ahead of a Trump visit to New Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next month, negotiators on both sides are hammering out terms for a trade deal that would include New Delhi rolling back higher tariffs on some farm goods such as almonds, walnuts and apples, one of the sources said.

Both governments had hoped to work out a limited trade deal last year, but struggled to reach an agreement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-china-trade-deal-what-were-the-key-issues-and-are-they-resolved-275073">US-China trade deal - What were the key issues and are they resolved?</a>

India's commerce ministry and the US&nbsp;Embassy in New Delhi did not respond to a request for comment. The office of the US&nbsp;Trade Representative did not immediately respond outside regular business hours.

While India has offered a partial relief on medical device price caps that have hurt American pharma giants and a rollback in tariffs on some US&nbsp;goods, Trump's team wants a sweetener of $5-6 billion in additional trade for US&nbsp;goods to restore GSP privileges, three of the sources said.

That demand was conveyed by the United States to India in late December, said two sources.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-markets-scale-a-new-high-after-us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-274665">US-China trade deal - Hits and misses for India</a>

As part of the negotiation, the US&nbsp;wants India to increase imports of frozen poultry products, the first source said. The US&nbsp;has already been pushing India to cut the high import taxes on poultry products.

"The deal has to be agriculture-focused, the US&nbsp;is putting a number on everything (if India wants GSP back)," said one of the sources.

The sources asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the discussions.

Other than the agriculture sector, the United States could be swayed if some of that additional revenue goes to its energy sector, said one of the sources.

Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan this week said India was looking forward to extending its energy cooperation with the United States and other countries but didn't disclose any planned deals.

Trump is likely to visit India in late February, in what would be his first visit to the South Asian nation since he took office three years ago.

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters.

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters. US President Donald Trump cited trade barriers last year when removing India from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed zero tariffs on $5.6 billion of exports to the United States. In retaliation, India slapped higher tariffs on more than two dozens US products. Ahead of a Trump visit to New Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next month, negotiators on both sides are hammering out terms for a trade deal that would include New Delhi rolling back higher tariffs on some farm goods such as almonds, walnuts and apples, one of the sources said. Both governments had hoped to work out a limited trade deal last year, but struggled to reach an agreement. Also read: US-China trade deal - What were the key issues and are they resolved? India's commerce ministry and the US Embassy in New Delhi did not respond to a request for comment. The office of the US Trade Representative did not immediately respond outside regular business hours. While India has offered a partial relief on medical device price caps that have hurt American pharma giants and a rollback in tariffs on some US goods, Trump's team wants a sweetener of $5-6 billion in additional trade for US goods to restore GSP privileges, three of the sources said. That demand was conveyed by the United States to India in late December, said two sources. Also read: US-China trade deal - Hits and misses for India As part of the negotiation, the US wants India to increase imports of frozen poultry products, the first source said. The US has already been pushing India to cut the high import taxes on poultry products. "The deal has to be agriculture-focused, the US is putting a number on everything (if India wants GSP back)," said one of the sources. The sources asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the discussions. Other than the agriculture sector, the United States could be swayed if some of that additional revenue goes to its energy sector, said one of the sources. Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan this week said India was looking forward to extending its energy cooperation with the United States and other countries but didn't disclose any planned deals. Trump is likely to visit India in late February, in what would be his first visit to the South Asian nation since he took office three years ago.

US pushes India to buy $5-6 billion more farm goods to seal trade deal: Report

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) authorities are ready to utilise the isolation ward for the treatment the suspected cases of a novel coronavirus if detected in India. The AIIMS administration is prepared to utilize the isolation ward for suspected cases of killer nCoV which has taken the shape of a massive outbreak in Wuhan city of China.

Also read-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-beijing-cancels-republic-day-ceremony-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-in-china-276309">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-beijing-cancels-republic-day-ceremony-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-in-china-276309">Indian embassy in Beijing cancels Republic Day ceremony due to coronavirus outbreak in China</a>

Speaking to ANI, Dr Randeep Guleria, Director of AIIMS said: "We have isolation wards in place. Now we will utilize it for suspected coronavirus cases if it gets originate in Delhi and India. At AIIMS, we are fully equipped with the treatment facilities and have trained doctors, nurses to screen the patients. As of now, no case has been reported in India.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-india-can-come-under-coronavirus-threat-276325/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A person should maintain a good standard of hand hygiene, avoid travelling in crowded places and use masks while travelling to avoid falling prey to pneumonia-causing virus. Any person having any symptoms such as cough, fever and weakness should immediately consult the doctor."

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wuhan-medical-workers-face-gruelling-task-of-treating-viral-pneumonia-patients-276230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The hospital preparedness with regard to management and infection prevention control facilities has also been reviewed, he added.

"We have adequate precautionary measures even for healthcare workers here. In case, if a large number of cases originated, we have to capacity to strengthen the isolation ward facilities," said Dr Guleria adding that the Central government is continuously doing thermal screening for passengers arriving in India from China via Hongkong.

These airports include Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata respectively.

"Unfortunately, as of now there is no such treatment, vaccine and medication available for the treatment of nCoV as this typical virus mutates very fast and transmits from human to human easily. Hence, we have to follow preventive medication strategies," Dr Guleria added.

"Coronavirus which is presently circulating in China is one from the family of SARS virus which was originated in China in 2002. It has been reported that the virus was originated from animals and this time also medical scientists are suspecting that the virus has been transmitted from animals too," he said.

Till January 23, over 550 cases of pneumonia with nCoV were confirmed in China and a total of 17 people have died. The cases have been reported in more than 20 provinces (including Taiwan ) and municipalities as well.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) authorities are ready to utilise the isolation ward for the treatment the suspected cases of a novel coronavirus if detected in India.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) authorities are ready to utilise the isolation ward for the treatment the suspected cases of a novel coronavirus if detected in India. The AIIMS administration is prepared to utilize the isolation ward for suspected cases of killer nCoV which has taken the shape of a massive outbreak in Wuhan city of China. Also read- Indian embassy in Beijing cancels Republic Day ceremony due to coronavirus outbreak in China Speaking to ANI, Dr Randeep Guleria, Director of AIIMS said: "We have isolation wards in place. Now we will utilize it for suspected coronavirus cases if it gets originate in Delhi and India. At AIIMS, we are fully equipped with the treatment facilities and have trained doctors, nurses to screen the patients. As of now, no case has been reported in India. A person should maintain a good standard of hand hygiene, avoid travelling in crowded places and use masks while travelling to avoid falling prey to pneumonia-causing virus. Any person having any symptoms such as cough, fever and weakness should immediately consult the doctor." The hospital preparedness with regard to management and infection prevention control facilities has also been reviewed, he added. "We have adequate precautionary measures even for healthcare workers here. In case, if a large number of cases originated, we have to capacity to strengthen the isolation ward facilities," said Dr Guleria adding that the Central government is continuously doing thermal screening for passengers arriving in India from China via Hongkong. These airports include Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata respectively. "Unfortunately, as of now there is no such treatment, vaccine and medication available for the treatment of nCoV as this typical virus mutates very fast and transmits from human to human easily. Hence, we have to follow preventive medication strategies," Dr Guleria added. "Coronavirus which is presently circulating in China is one from the family of SARS virus which was originated in China in 2002. It has been reported that the virus was originated from animals and this time also medical scientists are suspecting that the virus has been transmitted from animals too," he said. Till January 23, over 550 cases of pneumonia with nCoV were confirmed in China and a total of 17 people have died. The cases have been reported in more than 20 provinces (including Taiwan ) and municipalities as well.

AIIMS to keep coronavirus patients in 'isolation ward'

In the face of repeated assertion by Home Minister Amit Shah and various other BJP leaders that the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) will not be withdrawn, Tamil Nadu's opposition party the DMK and its allies have decided to hold a state-wide Signature campaign against the CAA and the implementation of National Population Register.&nbsp;

In an all-party meeting held at the DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam, the opposition parties in the state have resolved to demand the withdrawal of "anti-people" CAA, prevent the commencement of NRC processes and disallow the NPR activities from being conducted in Tamil Nadu, DMK Chief Stalin said.&nbsp;

"We have taken a resolution to conduct a statewide signature campaign from February 2nd to February 8th in this regard. Beyond those that are politically inclined and are taking part in this campaign, we urge students and common people to take part in this campaign. We aim to seek the appointment of the President of India and submit the signatures to him" said MK Stalin.&nbsp;

When asked about Home Minister Amit Shah having emphasized that the central government "wouldn't move back an inch on CAA", Stalin retorted, "let Amit Shah say what he wants, we will continue to show our disapproval"

On social reformer Periyar's statue that was vandalized in Chengalpet district, near Chennai, Stalin stated that these incidents are "happening continuously" and that Periyar had stood up for the Tamil race for 95 years, it was painful and embarrassing that such incidents are taking place. He demanded that the government take necessary action against the perpetrators.&nbsp;

The DMK-ed alliance also urged the AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu to take up a cabinet decision against the implementation of NPR in Tamil Nadu.

In the face of repeated assertion by Home Minister Amit Shah and various other BJP leaders that the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) will not be withdrawn, Tamil Nadu's opposition party the DMK and its allies have decided to hold a state-wide Signature campaign against the CAA and the implementation of National Population Register.

In the face of repeated assertion by Home Minister Amit Shah and various other BJP leaders that the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) will not be withdrawn, Tamil Nadu's opposition party the DMK and its allies have decided to hold a state-wide Signature campaign against the CAA and the implementation of National Population Register. In an all-party meeting held at the DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam, the opposition parties in the state have resolved to demand the withdrawal of "anti-people" CAA, prevent the commencement of NRC processes and disallow the NPR activities from being conducted in Tamil Nadu, DMK Chief Stalin said. "We have taken a resolution to conduct a statewide signature campaign from February 2nd to February 8th in this regard. Beyond those that are politically inclined and are taking part in this campaign, we urge students and common people to take part in this campaign. We aim to seek the appointment of the President of India and submit the signatures to him" said MK Stalin. When asked about Home Minister Amit Shah having emphasized that the central government "wouldn't move back an inch on CAA", Stalin retorted, "let Amit Shah say what he wants, we will continue to show our disapproval" On social reformer Periyar's statue that was vandalized in Chengalpet district, near Chennai, Stalin stated that these incidents are "happening continuously" and that Periyar had stood up for the Tamil race for 95 years, it was painful and embarrassing that such incidents are taking place. He demanded that the government take necessary action against the perpetrators. The DMK-ed alliance also urged the AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu to take up a cabinet decision against the implementation of NPR in Tamil Nadu.

Let Amit shah say what he wants; we will oppose CAA; DMK, allies launch Signature campaign

The Indian embassy in China on Friday cancelled the Republic Day ceremony in view of the coronavirus outbreak which has killed 25 people and infected over 800 others. The Indian mission here took to social media to announce the cancelation of the celebrations scheduled for January 26.&nbsp;

“In view of the evolving situation due to the coronavirus outbreak in China as well as the decision of the Chinese authorities to cancel public gathering and events,@EOIBeijing has also decided to call off the Republic Day reception scheduled to be held @EOIBeijing on January 26th,” the embassy said on Twitter.

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In view of the evolving situation due to the corona virus outbreak in China as well as the decision of Chinese authorities to cancel public gathering and events, <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EOIBeijing</a> has also decided to call off the Republic Day reception scheduled to be held <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EOIBeijing</a> on January 26th.
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1220561692981022720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1220569458206339072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the latest reports, the death toll in the deadly coronavirus has climbed to 25 with confirmed cases rising sharply to 830, mostly in Hubei province. Beijing has reported 26 cases so far. China has locked down eight cities including Wuhan to prevent the virus from spreading.

The Indian embassy in China on Friday cancelled the Republic Day ceremony in view of the coronavirus outbreak which has killed 25 people and infected over 800 others.

The Indian embassy in China on Friday cancelled the Republic Day ceremony in view of the coronavirus outbreak which has killed 25 people and infected over 800 others. The Indian mission here took to social media to announce the cancelation of the celebrations scheduled for January 26. “In view of the evolving situation due to the coronavirus outbreak in China as well as the decision of the Chinese authorities to cancel public gathering and events,@EOIBeijing has also decided to call off the Republic Day reception scheduled to be held @EOIBeijing on January 26th,” the embassy said on Twitter. In view of the evolving situation due to the corona virus outbreak in China as well as the decision of Chinese authorities to cancel public gathering and events, @EOIBeijing has also decided to call off the Republic Day reception scheduled to be held @EOIBeijing on January 26th. — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 24, 2020 × Novel coronavirus outbreak in China: Advisory to travellers from China visiting India pic.twitter.com/UEvqJyDW6D — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 24, 2020 × According to the latest reports, the death toll in the deadly coronavirus has climbed to 25 with confirmed cases rising sharply to 830, mostly in Hubei province. Beijing has reported 26 cases so far. China has locked down eight cities including Wuhan to prevent the virus from spreading.

Indian embassy in Beijing cancels Republic Day ceremony due to coronavirus outbreak in China

The Madras High Court on Friday dismissed a petition filed against actor Rajinikanth over his remarks on rationalist leader E V Ramasamy “Periyar” as the petitioners withdrew the plea. Justice P Rajamanickam was hearing the petition by Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam, a fringe outfit.

State Public Prosecutor A Natarajan submitted the petitioners had approached the court without seeking the alternative remedy available to them. Justice Rajamanickam asked the counsel for the petitioners if they would withdraw the petition. After the counsels admitted they would do so, the judge recorded the same and dismissed the plea.

Rajinikanth made the controversial remarks against Periyar recently at an event organised here by Tamil magazine ‘Thuglak’. “In 1971, at Salem, Periyar took out a rally in which the undressed images of Lord Sriramachandramoorthy and Sita -with a garland of sandal-featured ….,” he had said.&nbsp;

The Madras High Court on Friday dismissed a petition filed against actor Rajinikanth over his remarks on rationalist leader E V Ramasamy “Periyar” as the petitioners withdrew the plea.

The Madras High Court on Friday dismissed a petition filed against actor Rajinikanth over his remarks on rationalist leader E V Ramasamy “Periyar” as the petitioners withdrew the plea. Justice P Rajamanickam was hearing the petition by Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam, a fringe outfit. State Public Prosecutor A Natarajan submitted the petitioners had approached the court without seeking the alternative remedy available to them. Justice Rajamanickam asked the counsel for the petitioners if they would withdraw the petition. After the counsels admitted they would do so, the judge recorded the same and dismissed the plea. Rajinikanth made the controversial remarks against Periyar recently at an event organised here by Tamil magazine ‘Thuglak’. “In 1971, at Salem, Periyar took out a rally in which the undressed images of Lord Sriramachandramoorthy and Sita -with a garland of sandal-featured ….,” he had said.

Periyar row: Madras High Court dismisses plea against Rajinikanth

The Election Commission of India on Friday told the Supreme Court that its 2018 direction asking poll candidates to declare their criminal antecedents in electronic and print media has not helped curb criminalisation of politics.&nbsp;

The poll panel suggested that instead of asking candidates to declare criminal antecedents in the media, political parties should be asked not to give tickets to candidates with criminal background. A bench of Justices R F Nariman and S Ravindra Bhat asked the ECI to come up with a framework within one week which can help curb criminalisation of politics in nation’s interest.

The top court asked the petitioner BJP leader and advocate Ashiwini Upadhyay and the poll panel to sit together and come up with suggestions which would help him in curbing criminalisation of politics.&nbsp;

In September 2018, a five-judge Constitution bench had unanimously held that all candidates will have to declare their criminal antecedents to the Election Commission before contesting polls and had called for a wider publicity, through print and electronic media about antecedents of candidates.

The Election Commission of India on Friday told the Supreme Court that its 2018 direction asking poll candidates to declare their criminal antecedents in electronic and print media has not helped curb criminalisation of politics.

The Election Commission of India on Friday told the Supreme Court that its 2018 direction asking poll candidates to declare their criminal antecedents in electronic and print media has not helped curb criminalisation of politics. The poll panel suggested that instead of asking candidates to declare criminal antecedents in the media, political parties should be asked not to give tickets to candidates with criminal background. A bench of Justices R F Nariman and S Ravindra Bhat asked the ECI to come up with a framework within one week which can help curb criminalisation of politics in nation’s interest. The top court asked the petitioner BJP leader and advocate Ashiwini Upadhyay and the poll panel to sit together and come up with suggestions which would help him in curbing criminalisation of politics. In September 2018, a five-judge Constitution bench had unanimously held that all candidates will have to declare their criminal antecedents to the Election Commission before contesting polls and had called for a wider publicity, through print and electronic media about antecedents of candidates.

Political parties should not give tickets to candidates with criminal background, ECI tells SC

An improvised explosive device (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspected-ied-blast-reported-in-imphal-no-casualties-270697">IED</a>) blast occurred at Nagamapal RIMS road in Imphal West on early Thursday morning.

Security forces have reached the spot to probe the matter. More details are currently awaited.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspected-ied-blast-reported-in-imphal-no-casualties-270697">Suspected IED blast reported in Imphal, no casualties</a>

Interestingly, a few days ago, some troops of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-rifles-seizes-drugs-worth-rs-12-crore-254303">Assam Rifles </a>along with police apprehended two underground cadres of the United Tribal Liberation Army (UTLA) from Manipur's Imphal.

Both apprehended underground cadres have been handed over to the police for further investigation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/general-bipin-rawat-visits-eastern-command-headquarters-245555">Eastern Command </a>said on Monday.

"Troops of #AssamRifles in an #Op with Police apprehended 2 Underground (UG) cadres of United Tribal Liberation Army from Imphal, Manipur on 19 January.&nbsp;Those apprehended have been handed over to the police for further investigations," Eastern Command had said in a tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEOps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEOps</a> 
 
Troops of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssamRifles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssamRifles</a> with police apprehended a KLO Cadre with arms &amp; ammunition from Andro Sanapat, Thoubal, Manipur on 18 Jan. The apprehended cadre with recovered items was handed over to police for further investigation. <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@spokespersonMoD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/official_dgar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@official_dgar</a> <a href="https://t.co/5jMyFMz0nk">pic.twitter.com/5jMyFMz0nk</a>
— EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) <a href="https://twitter.com/easterncomd/status/1219662889117614081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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An improvised explosive device (IED) blast occurred at Nagamapal RIMS road in Imphal West on early Thursday morning. Security forces have reached the spot to probe the matter.

An improvised explosive device (IED) blast occurred at Nagamapal RIMS road in Imphal West on early Thursday morning. Security forces have reached the spot to probe the matter. More details are currently awaited. Also read: Suspected IED blast reported in Imphal, no casualties Interestingly, a few days ago, some troops of Assam Rifles along with police apprehended two underground cadres of the United Tribal Liberation Army (UTLA) from Manipur's Imphal. Both apprehended underground cadres have been handed over to the police for further investigation, Eastern Command said on Monday. "Troops of #AssamRifles in an #Op with Police apprehended 2 Underground (UG) cadres of United Tribal Liberation Army from Imphal, Manipur on 19 January. Those apprehended have been handed over to the police for further investigations," Eastern Command had said in a tweet. #NEOps Troops of #AssamRifles with police apprehended a KLO Cadre with arms & ammunition from Andro Sanapat, Thoubal, Manipur on 18 Jan. The apprehended cadre with recovered items was handed over to police for further investigation. @adgpi @spokespersonMoD @official_dgar pic.twitter.com/5jMyFMz0nk — EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) January 21, 2020 ×

Improvised Explosive Device blast in Imphal

The mortal remains of eight Indian tourists, including four minors who died of possible asphyxiation in their room at a mountainous resort in Nepal, were flown back to their hometowns in Kerala on Thursday, senior officials said.

All formalities, including the postmortem, were completed on Wednesday night and the bodies were flown on two separate Air India flights from Kathmandu to New Delhi, according to sources at the Indian Embassy here.

The mortal remains of Praveen Krishnan Nair, his wife Saranya Sasi and their three children will be taken to Thiruvananthapuram from Delhi, and of Ranjith Kumar Adatholath Punathil, his wife Indu Lakshmi Peethambaran Ragalatha and their son to Kozhikode from Delhi.

"This was a very tragic incident," a senior Indian Embassy official told PTI here.

The victims were among a group of 15 tourists from Kerala who had checked into a resort in Daman, a popular tourist spot in Makawanpur district, some 70-km south of Kathmandu.

The group, after travelling to Pokhara -- a popular mountainous tourist destination -- was on their way back home and stayed at Everest Panorama Resort in Daman on Monday night.

According to the manager at the resort, Shiva KC, the families arrived in a reserved vehicle and were supposed to stay in the resort for only one night.

Although they had booked a total of four rooms, eight of them stayed in a room and turned on a gas heater for warmth, the manager said, adding that all the windows and the door of the room were bolted from inside.

All eight of them were found unconscious the next day morning when hotel staff went to deliver morning bed coffee. Doctors declared them brought dead when they were rushed to a hospital in Kathmandu on a helicopter.

Their postmortem was conducted at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital here on Wednesday.

The tragedy occurred as the two-decade-old resort does not have air conditioners, said Labsher Bista, the mayor of Thaha Municipality in the district.

Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali has condoled the death and said he was deeply shocked to learn about the incident. He offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, government and people of India.

Meanwhile, Nepal's Department of Tourism has formed a five-member committee to investigate whether there were any lapses in the safety of tourists by the resort administration. The committee is required to submit the report within 15 days.

An official said that out of the seven who survived, two stayed back to accompany the bodies while others left.

Nair and Ranjit, both IT professionals, were engineering college classmates and the tour was arranged after a get-together with old friends in Delhi, a family member said.

Nair, who hails from Chempazhanthi in Thiruvananthapuram, was an engineer in Dubai, while his wife, Saranya, staying in Kochi along with 3 children and was a nursing student.

Ranjit was working in an IT firm at Thiruvananthapuram, while his wife, Indu, was an accountant in a cooperative bank at Kozhikode, a family member said. Ranjit's elder son Madhav had a lucky escape as he was sleeping in another room.&nbsp;

The mortal remains of eight Indian tourists, including four minors who died of possible asphyxiation in their room at a mountainous resort in Nepal, were flown back to their hometowns in Kerala on Thursday, senior officials said.

The mortal remains of eight Indian tourists, including four minors who died of possible asphyxiation in their room at a mountainous resort in Nepal, were flown back to their hometowns in Kerala on Thursday, senior officials said. All formalities, including the postmortem, were completed on Wednesday night and the bodies were flown on two separate Air India flights from Kathmandu to New Delhi, according to sources at the Indian Embassy here. The mortal remains of Praveen Krishnan Nair, his wife Saranya Sasi and their three children will be taken to Thiruvananthapuram from Delhi, and of Ranjith Kumar Adatholath Punathil, his wife Indu Lakshmi Peethambaran Ragalatha and their son to Kozhikode from Delhi. "This was a very tragic incident," a senior Indian Embassy official told PTI here. The victims were among a group of 15 tourists from Kerala who had checked into a resort in Daman, a popular tourist spot in Makawanpur district, some 70-km south of Kathmandu. The group, after travelling to Pokhara -- a popular mountainous tourist destination -- was on their way back home and stayed at Everest Panorama Resort in Daman on Monday night. According to the manager at the resort, Shiva KC, the families arrived in a reserved vehicle and were supposed to stay in the resort for only one night. Although they had booked a total of four rooms, eight of them stayed in a room and turned on a gas heater for warmth, the manager said, adding that all the windows and the door of the room were bolted from inside. All eight of them were found unconscious the next day morning when hotel staff went to deliver morning bed coffee. Doctors declared them brought dead when they were rushed to a hospital in Kathmandu on a helicopter. Their postmortem was conducted at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital here on Wednesday. The tragedy occurred as the two-decade-old resort does not have air conditioners, said Labsher Bista, the mayor of Thaha Municipality in the district. Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali has condoled the death and said he was deeply shocked to learn about the incident. He offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, government and people of India. Meanwhile, Nepal's Department of Tourism has formed a five-member committee to investigate whether there were any lapses in the safety of tourists by the resort administration. The committee is required to submit the report within 15 days. An official said that out of the seven who survived, two stayed back to accompany the bodies while others left. Nair and Ranjit, both IT professionals, were engineering college classmates and the tour was arranged after a get-together with old friends in Delhi, a family member said. Nair, who hails from Chempazhanthi in Thiruvananthapuram, was an engineer in Dubai, while his wife, Saranya, staying in Kochi along with 3 children and was a nursing student. Ranjit was working in an IT firm at Thiruvananthapuram, while his wife, Indu, was an accountant in a cooperative bank at Kozhikode, a family member said. Ranjit's elder son Madhav had a lucky escape as he was sleeping in another room.

Mortal remains of 8 Indian tourists flown back to Kerala from Nepal

On his first visit to the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir after assuming charge, Army Chief Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane on Thursday interacted with the troops and asked them to remain prepared for all contingencies.

He also met Lt Governor G C Murmu at Raj Bhavan here and discussed issues concerning effective management of internal and external security, particularly in the context of infiltration attempts and the ongoing anti-terrorist operations, officials said.

Gen Naravane took charge as Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on January 1 and arrived here on Wednesday evening on a two-day visit to the newly created Union Territory.

Accompanied by General-officer-commanding, Northern Command, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, he visited troops along the LoC to review the prevailing situation and operational readiness of the units of Jammu-based White Knight Corps, a defence spokesperson said.

Gen Naravane was briefed by General Officer Commanding, White Knight Corps, Lt Gen Harsha Gupta and some commanders.

He also interacted with the soldiers and lauded their unwavering dedication to duty and high standards of professionalism.

Earlier in the day, the Army chief visited headquarters of the Northern Command at Udhampur where he was briefed by Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on the prevailing situation along the LoC and also in the hinterland.

Gen Naravane appreciated the efforts of the Northern Command to meet the challenges posed by inimical elements, the spokesperson said.

"The need to remain prepared for all contingencies was reinforced by the COAS," the spokesperson said, adding that he also expressed satisfaction over the people friendly measures undertaken by the Army.

A Raj Bhavan spokesman said during his meeting with the Army chief, Murmu appreciated the synergy between the Army, other security forces and the civil administration in maintaining law and order.

The Lt Governor lauded the Army's role in safeguarding the territorial integrity and the internal security of Jammu and Kashmir while conducting successful anti-terrorist operations in coordination with local police and central armed police forces in the hinterland, the spokesman said.

On his first visit to the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir after assuming charge, Army Chief Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane on Thursday interacted with the troops and asked them to remain prepared for all contingencies.

On his first visit to the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir after assuming charge, Army Chief Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane on Thursday interacted with the troops and asked them to remain prepared for all contingencies. He also met Lt Governor G C Murmu at Raj Bhavan here and discussed issues concerning effective management of internal and external security, particularly in the context of infiltration attempts and the ongoing anti-terrorist operations, officials said. Gen Naravane took charge as Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on January 1 and arrived here on Wednesday evening on a two-day visit to the newly created Union Territory. Accompanied by General-officer-commanding, Northern Command, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, he visited troops along the LoC to review the prevailing situation and operational readiness of the units of Jammu-based White Knight Corps, a defence spokesperson said. Gen Naravane was briefed by General Officer Commanding, White Knight Corps, Lt Gen Harsha Gupta and some commanders. He also interacted with the soldiers and lauded their unwavering dedication to duty and high standards of professionalism. Earlier in the day, the Army chief visited headquarters of the Northern Command at Udhampur where he was briefed by Lt Gen Ranbir Singh on the prevailing situation along the LoC and also in the hinterland. Gen Naravane appreciated the efforts of the Northern Command to meet the challenges posed by inimical elements, the spokesperson said. "The need to remain prepared for all contingencies was reinforced by the COAS," the spokesperson said, adding that he also expressed satisfaction over the people friendly measures undertaken by the Army. A Raj Bhavan spokesman said during his meeting with the Army chief, Murmu appreciated the synergy between the Army, other security forces and the civil administration in maintaining law and order. The Lt Governor lauded the Army's role in safeguarding the territorial integrity and the internal security of Jammu and Kashmir while conducting successful anti-terrorist operations in coordination with local police and central armed police forces in the hinterland, the spokesman said.

Be prepared for all contingencies, Army chief tells troops during maiden LoC visit

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will arrive in India on a four-day visit beginning Friday with an aim to "re-energise" the bilateral strategic partnership by boosting trade and investment, and deepening cooperation in key sectors such as defence and energy.

Bolsonaro, during his first visit to India after assuming power, will be the chief guest at India's 71st Republic Day Parade on January 26, besides holding talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind.

Asked why a "controversial" figure like Bolsonaro was chosen to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade, Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh said he is an elected leader in a democratic country which is an emerging power in the region and one with which India has strong and substantive relations.

"We will be warmly welcoming him as an honoured guest to the Republic Day and it (his coming here) is a sign of his commitment to building the relationship between the two countries," she said at a media briefing.

Brazilian envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago to India earlier told PTI over 15 agreements will be signed during the Brazilian president's visit, including one on the investment protection and facilitation treaty.

President Bolsonaro will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind separately on Saturday.

Thakur said there would be discussions on cooperation in key sectors such as defence, energy, trade and agriculture.

"Coming to the energy sector, which is the area in which we have collaboration both oil and gas as well as in the renewable energy side, including in the field of Bio-fuels... We could have an exchange of knowledge as well as technology in this field," Thakur said.

"We have ongoing Defence cooperation as well as space cooperation and we are looking at how to strengthen these. And, also we would be looking at strengthening our cooperation that exists in science and technology, in innovations and start-ups," she said.

Other areas which will be the focus of discussion during the visit will be agriculture, food processing and animal husbandry, Thakur said.

"So, if you look at it, the visit of President Bolsonaro is an extremely important visit. It will be an opportunity to re-energise our strategic partnership and take it forward in a focused manner. And, we have a very positive and forward-looking agenda to building stronger ties with Brazil," she said.

President Bolsonaro will be accompanied by eight ministers, four members of the Brazilian Parliament, senior officials and a large business delegation, she said.

This will be the third time that a Brazilian President will be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day.

The last time there was a Brazilian president as chief guest was in 2004.

India-Brazil ties have been on an upswing in the last few years.

The volume of bilateral trade was $8.2 billion in 2018-19. This included $3.8 billion worth of Indian exports to Brazil and $4.4 million as imports by India. Both the governments feel there is huge potential to enhance the bilateral trade further.

Indian investments in Brazil were around $6 billion and Brazilian investments in India are estimated at $1 billion in 2018.

Brazilian investments in India are mainly in the automobile, IT, mining, energy and biofuels sectors. India has invested in Brazil's IT, pharmaceutical, energy, agri-business, mining and engineering sectors.

The two countries signed an agreement in 2003 for defence cooperation. It was ratified by Brazil in 2006. The agreement provides for cooperation in defence-related matters, especially in the field of research and development, acquisition and logistic support.

Both the countries are also strong contenders for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.

Prime Minister Modi met Bolsonaro on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka in June last year during which a raft of issues of bilateral importance were discussed.&nbsp;

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will arrive in India on a four-day visit beginning Friday with an aim to "re-energise" the bilateral strategic partnership by boosting trade and investment, and deepening cooperation in key sectors such as defence and energy.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will arrive in India on a four-day visit beginning Friday with an aim to "re-energise" the bilateral strategic partnership by boosting trade and investment, and deepening cooperation in key sectors such as defence and energy. Bolsonaro, during his first visit to India after assuming power, will be the chief guest at India's 71st Republic Day Parade on January 26, besides holding talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. Asked why a "controversial" figure like Bolsonaro was chosen to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade, Secretary (East) Vijay Thakur Singh said he is an elected leader in a democratic country which is an emerging power in the region and one with which India has strong and substantive relations. "We will be warmly welcoming him as an honoured guest to the Republic Day and it (his coming here) is a sign of his commitment to building the relationship between the two countries," she said at a media briefing. Brazilian envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago to India earlier told PTI over 15 agreements will be signed during the Brazilian president's visit, including one on the investment protection and facilitation treaty. President Bolsonaro will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind separately on Saturday. Thakur said there would be discussions on cooperation in key sectors such as defence, energy, trade and agriculture. "Coming to the energy sector, which is the area in which we have collaboration both oil and gas as well as in the renewable energy side, including in the field of Bio-fuels... We could have an exchange of knowledge as well as technology in this field," Thakur said. "We have ongoing Defence cooperation as well as space cooperation and we are looking at how to strengthen these. And, also we would be looking at strengthening our cooperation that exists in science and technology, in innovations and start-ups," she said. Other areas which will be the focus of discussion during the visit will be agriculture, food processing and animal husbandry, Thakur said. "So, if you look at it, the visit of President Bolsonaro is an extremely important visit. It will be an opportunity to re-energise our strategic partnership and take it forward in a focused manner. And, we have a very positive and forward-looking agenda to building stronger ties with Brazil," she said. President Bolsonaro will be accompanied by eight ministers, four members of the Brazilian Parliament, senior officials and a large business delegation, she said. This will be the third time that a Brazilian President will be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day. The last time there was a Brazilian president as chief guest was in 2004. India-Brazil ties have been on an upswing in the last few years. The volume of bilateral trade was $8.2 billion in 2018-19. This included $3.8 billion worth of Indian exports to Brazil and $4.4 million as imports by India. Both the governments feel there is huge potential to enhance the bilateral trade further. Indian investments in Brazil were around $6 billion and Brazilian investments in India are estimated at $1 billion in 2018. Brazilian investments in India are mainly in the automobile, IT, mining, energy and biofuels sectors. India has invested in Brazil's IT, pharmaceutical, energy, agri-business, mining and engineering sectors. The two countries signed an agreement in 2003 for defence cooperation. It was ratified by Brazil in 2006. The agreement provides for cooperation in defence-related matters, especially in the field of research and development, acquisition and logistic support. Both the countries are also strong contenders for permanent membership of the UN Security Council. Prime Minister Modi met Bolsonaro on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka in June last year during which a raft of issues of bilateral importance were discussed.

Brazilian President begins 4-day India visit on Friday; trade, defence energy cooperation high on agenda

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a&nbsp;jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years".&nbsp;

"Keep going Kejriwal," Shah took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party chief. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
He further attacked Kejriwal saying, "You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn't bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn't implement it here."

"If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would definitely get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten," Shah also said during the rally ahead of assembly polls in the city.

The Union Home Minister further urged the people to give Prime Minister Narendra Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital city.

Over 600 candidates including Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, BJP's Vijender Gupta and Congress's Arvinder Singh Lovely are in the fray for next month's Delhi Assembly polls.&nbsp;

Delhi goes to polls on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11.&nbsp;

In the battle for supremacy for the 70 seats, the AAP has been wooing the voters through a host of populist schemes.

Kejriwal has guaranteed free bus ride for students, deployment of mohalla marshals for women security, 24-hour supply of power and clean piped water to every household and reducing pollution to one-third.

He said schemes like free 200 units of electricity, 20,000 litres of water and healthcare services will continue for the next five years if his party is voted to power again and also promised basic infrastructure in unauthorised colonies as well as "a pukka house for all slum dwellers". 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday took a jibe at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a rally at the national capital, Shah said, for four and a half years Delhi CM kept saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not let him work so development could not be done; "now you are saying that you developed Delhi in five years". "Keep going Kejriwal," Shah took a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party chief. He further attacked Kejriwal saying, "You became CM with the help of Anna Hazare but couldn't bring a law for Lokpal and when Modi ji brought it you didn't implement it here." "If there is a competition in the country of making false promises, Kejriwal would definitely get the first prize. I have come to remind you that you forgot the promises you made, but neither the people of Delhi nor BJP workers have forgotten," Shah also said during the rally ahead of assembly polls in the city. The Union Home Minister further urged the people to give Prime Minister Narendra Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital city. Over 600 candidates including Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, BJP's Vijender Gupta and Congress's Arvinder Singh Lovely are in the fray for next month's Delhi Assembly polls. Delhi goes to polls on February 8. The counting of votes will take place on February 11. In the battle for supremacy for the 70 seats, the AAP has been wooing the voters through a host of populist schemes. Kejriwal has guaranteed free bus ride for students, deployment of mohalla marshals for women security, 24-hour supply of power and clean piped water to every household and reducing pollution to one-third. He said schemes like free 200 units of electricity, 20,000 litres of water and healthcare services will continue for the next five years if his party is voted to power again and also promised basic infrastructure in unauthorised colonies as well as "a pukka house for all slum dwellers".

Give PM Modi a chance to transform Delhi into a front-ranking world capital: Amit Shah

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-understand-indias-concerns-but-rcep-deal-could-benefit-her-exporters-china-260287">Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership</a> (RCEP) agreement was an unbalanced agreement, which was not fulfilling the guiding principles on which the pact was initiated,&nbsp;India's Industry and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said in Davos as he led the Indian delegation to the annual World Economic Forum.

Speaking during a session at WEF, Goyal said, "RCEP was an unbalanced trade agreement, which was not fulfilling the guiding principles on which the RCEP was started. Therefore, India chose not to participate in it."&nbsp;

The Union Minister further said that India is not willing to engage with the RCEP unless it sees a "greater degree of transparency, open government, regulatory practice and greater market access."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rcep-pull-out-in-the-face-of-chinese-products-potentially-flooding-the-market-india-wants-to-reduce-deficits-and-keep-data-localisation-intact-260125">Also read | RCEP pull-out: India stands by reduced trade deficits, data localisation, and enhancing domestic markets</a>

"Trade negotiations are very complex issues. We are not negotiating trade with deadlines and in a hurry. The FTAs that were entered into from 2009-12, sadly did not have as many stakeholder consultations as our government is doing," said Goyal.

Last year,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/decision-to-stay-away-from-rcep-was-bold-historic-for-india-amit-shah-261907"> India decided not to join the RCEP agreement</a> as its key concerns were not addressed.

The key issues behind India's decision not to be part of RCEP included inadequate protection against import surge, insufficient differential with China, possible circumvention of rules of origin, keeping the base year as 2014 and no credible assurances on market access and non-tariff barriers.

The RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member-states of ASEAN and FTA partners.

Meanwhile, at WEF, Goyal&nbsp;had a number of engagements with various ministers of other countries and CEOs of prestigious companies including, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Tadashi Maeda, Governor of Japan Bank for International Cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement was an unbalanced agreement, which was not fulfilling the guiding principles on which the pact was initiated, India's Industry and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said in Davos as he led the Indian delegation to the annual World Economic Forum.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement was an unbalanced agreement, which was not fulfilling the guiding principles on which the pact was initiated, India's Industry and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said in Davos as he led the Indian delegation to the annual World Economic Forum. Speaking during a session at WEF, Goyal said, "RCEP was an unbalanced trade agreement, which was not fulfilling the guiding principles on which the RCEP was started. Therefore, India chose not to participate in it." The Union Minister further said that India is not willing to engage with the RCEP unless it sees a "greater degree of transparency, open government, regulatory practice and greater market access." Also read | RCEP pull-out: India stands by reduced trade deficits, data localisation, and enhancing domestic markets "Trade negotiations are very complex issues. We are not negotiating trade with deadlines and in a hurry. The FTAs that were entered into from 2009-12, sadly did not have as many stakeholder consultations as our government is doing," said Goyal. Last year, India decided not to join the RCEP agreement as its key concerns were not addressed. The key issues behind India's decision not to be part of RCEP included inadequate protection against import surge, insufficient differential with China, possible circumvention of rules of origin, keeping the base year as 2014 and no credible assurances on market access and non-tariff barriers. The RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member-states of ASEAN and FTA partners. Meanwhile, at WEF, Goyal had a number of engagements with various ministers of other countries and CEOs of prestigious companies including, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Tadashi Maeda, Governor of Japan Bank for International Cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

RCEP was unbalanced trade agreement, says Piyush Goyal at World Economic Forum

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as &nbsp;4 cases were tested positive in last one week.

The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks.&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment.

The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today.

A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples."

New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale.

This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives.&nbsp;

In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country.&nbsp;

In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief.&nbsp;

In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country. The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as 4 cases were tested positive in last one week. The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks. On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment. The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today. A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples." New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale. This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives. In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country. In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief. In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

After emergency request, India sends 30 thousand measles vaccines to Maldives within 72-hours

India slipped two places on the Corruption Perception Index after it ranked at 80,&nbsp;compared to the previous year when it was ranked at 78, said Transparency International in its annual report on Thursday. 
&nbsp; 
The country scored 41 out of 100, same as last year's, indicating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-check-corruption-in-india-cvc-to-train-officials-in-europe-207512">moderate to high-level of corruption</a>.

Interestingly, China, Ghana, Benin and Morocco shared the same score as India on the index.

Meanwhile, Pakistan was ranked at 120 out of 180 which indicated 'very high levels' of corruption. The neighbouring island, Sri Lanka was ranked at 93 with a score of 38.

The corruption perception index uses a scale from 0 to 100, where 100 is considered very clean while 0 is highly corrupt. It scores 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, according to experts and business people.

According to the report, two-thirds of the countries scored below 50 with an average score of 43.

The report also highlighted that this year corruption was more pervasive in countries where "big money can flow freely into electoral campaigns and where governments listen only to the voices of wealthy or well-connected individuals."

While the highest scoring regions mostly were in western Europe and European countries, the lowest-scoring countries were in the sub-Saharan Africa region, the annual report showed.

The countries which topped the list are&nbsp;New Zealand and Denmark, with scores of 87 each, followed by Finland (86), Singapore (85), Sweden (85) and Switzerland (85).

The bottom countries are Somalia, South Sudan and Syria with scores of 9, 12 and 13, respectively.&nbsp;

These countries are closely followed by Yemen (15), Venezuela (16), Sudan (16), Equatorial Guinea (16) and Afghanistan (16) and North Korea (17).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India slipped two places on the Corruption Perception Index after it ranked at 80, compared to the previous year when it was ranked at 78, said Transparency International in its annual report on Thursday.

India slipped two places on the Corruption Perception Index after it ranked at 80, compared to the previous year when it was ranked at 78, said Transparency International in its annual report on Thursday. The country scored 41 out of 100, same as last year's, indicating moderate to high-level of corruption. Interestingly, China, Ghana, Benin and Morocco shared the same score as India on the index. Meanwhile, Pakistan was ranked at 120 out of 180 which indicated 'very high levels' of corruption. The neighbouring island, Sri Lanka was ranked at 93 with a score of 38. The corruption perception index uses a scale from 0 to 100, where 100 is considered very clean while 0 is highly corrupt. It scores 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, according to experts and business people. According to the report, two-thirds of the countries scored below 50 with an average score of 43. The report also highlighted that this year corruption was more pervasive in countries where "big money can flow freely into electoral campaigns and where governments listen only to the voices of wealthy or well-connected individuals." While the highest scoring regions mostly were in western Europe and European countries, the lowest-scoring countries were in the sub-Saharan Africa region, the annual report showed. The countries which topped the list are New Zealand and Denmark, with scores of 87 each, followed by Finland (86), Singapore (85), Sweden (85) and Switzerland (85). The bottom countries are Somalia, South Sudan and Syria with scores of 9, 12 and 13, respectively. These countries are closely followed by Yemen (15), Venezuela (16), Sudan (16), Equatorial Guinea (16) and Afghanistan (16) and North Korea (17).

Global Corruption Perception Index: India slips to 80th position; Pakistan ranks at 120

The NIA court in Jammu sent suspended cop <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/recommending-jk-officer-davinder-singhs-sacking-to-government-dgp-274485">Davinder Singh and three others</a> to 15-days remand of the investigation agency on Thursday, news agency ANI reported.

According to reports, Syed Irfan, brother of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-jk-police-traced-top-cop-davinder-singhs-phone-to-track-terrorists-274240">Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist</a> arrested along with Singh, was also produced in the court by the NIA after it arrested him on Thursday.

The NIA, which took over the investigations into the case last weekend, brought them in Jammu on Wednesday on a transit remand from South Kashmir's Kulgam district.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Davinder Singh was arrested on charges of trying to assist terrorists to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir.

On January 16, after Ministry of Home Affairs' order, the NIA had registered a case and began investigations in connection with the arrest.

According to sources, Davinder was on the radar of security forces from quite some time.&nbsp;

In 2019, he took Hizb-ul-Mujahideen Commander Syed Naveed alias Babu to Jammu successfully where they stayed at Sidra area and later dropped him back as well. But the circumstances were different this time as a phone call was traced by the J&amp;K police which hinted at the movement of terrorists to the Jammu region.&nbsp;

The security forces are also seeing the CCTV footage taken from the Srinagar airport and have sent his mobile phone for the forensic investigation to get more clues. All this may open up more possible links of an officer with terrorists or accomplices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The NIA court in Jammu sent suspended cop Davinder Singh and three others to 15-days remand of the investigation agency on Thursday, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, Syed Irfan, brother of a Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist arrested along with Singh, was also produced in the court by the NIA after it arrested him on Thursday.

The NIA court in Jammu sent suspended cop Davinder Singh and three others to 15-days remand of the investigation agency on Thursday, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, Syed Irfan, brother of a Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist arrested along with Singh, was also produced in the court by the NIA after it arrested him on Thursday. The NIA, which took over the investigations into the case last weekend, brought them in Jammu on Wednesday on a transit remand from South Kashmir's Kulgam district. Earlier this month, Davinder Singh was arrested on charges of trying to assist terrorists to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir. On January 16, after Ministry of Home Affairs' order, the NIA had registered a case and began investigations in connection with the arrest. According to sources, Davinder was on the radar of security forces from quite some time. In 2019, he took Hizb-ul-Mujahideen Commander Syed Naveed alias Babu to Jammu successfully where they stayed at Sidra area and later dropped him back as well. But the circumstances were different this time as a phone call was traced by the J&K police which hinted at the movement of terrorists to the Jammu region. The security forces are also seeing the CCTV footage taken from the Srinagar airport and have sent his mobile phone for the forensic investigation to get more clues. All this may open up more possible links of an officer with terrorists or accomplices. (With inputs from agencies)

Suspended cop Davinder Singh, 3 others sent to 15-days NIA remand

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in&nbsp;Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter."&nbsp;

The MEA spokesperson further said that any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-way-forward-is-via-peace-settlements-pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-talks-with-india-275984">bilateral issues between India and Pakistan</a>&nbsp;should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration.

"But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters".

"Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added.

On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again&nbsp;raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter.&nbsp;

"We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said.

This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue&nbsp;at an international forum.

Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-efforts-to-raise-kashmir-at-un-security-council-crumbled-once-again-274575">Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue</a> for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a &nbsp;Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident.

The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories.

Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter". Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter." The MEA spokesperson further said that any bilateral issues between India and Pakistan should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration. "But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted. Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters". "Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added. On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter. "We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said. This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue at an international forum. Earlier this month, Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident. The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India

Indian Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Raveesh Kumar addressed media on January 23. Raveesh Kumar talked on Pakistan and terrorism. He said, 'Pakistan plays victim card on terrorism'.

MEA: Pakistan plays victim card on terrorism

The US state of New Jersey will enact a legislation that will make college and universities more affordable for the children of H-1B visa holders, mostly Indian IT professionals, bringing a huge financial relief to them.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy on Tuesday signed the legislation 'S2555', allowing New Jersey students, who are the children of H-1B visa holders, to qualify for in-state tuition at public institutions of higher education.

A majority of H-1B visa holders are Indians and this legislation comes as a significant relief to them, amidst an environment of stringent immigration laws and scrutiny under the Trump administration.

"New Jerseyans deserve equal access to higher education, and today we are taking another step towards making that possible. I'm proud to sign the legislation to help our students achieve their education goals, pursue a successful future and live their dreams here in their home state," Murphy said.

The legislation exempts dependent students whose parents or guardians hold H-1B visas from paying out-of-state tuition provided they meet certain criteria, including having graduated from a New Jersey high school and having attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years. New Jersey is home to prestigious institutions such as Princeton University.

Secretary of Higher Education Zakiya Smith Ellis said New Jersey is working to make college affordable for New Jerseyans and the legislation will expand postsecondary opportunities to more residents such as dependents of H-1B visa holders.

India's Deputy Consul General in New York Shatru Sinha welcomed the legislation, saying in a tweet that it is an "important initiative for the Indian community".

Primary sponsors of the legislation include Indian-American Democratic Senator Vin Gopal, Senator M Teresa Ruiz and Assembly members Raj Mukherji, Daniel Benson, and Robert Karabinchak.

President and CEO of Edison-based health technology company HealthEC Arthur Kapoor welcomed the legislation, saying it will tremendously benefit the Indian diaspora in New Jersey.

"Indian diaspora welcomes this bill since H-1B visa holders pay enormous amounts of taxes as well as social security contributions which they are never able to use as they return to India before they are eligible to receive benefits. This bill will allow their kids access to the best education," Kapoor said.

Indians have among the longest wait times for Green Cards. While school education from kindergarten to grade 12 is free in American public schools, non-citizens and immigrant children have to pay exorbitant fees to study in colleges and universities, adding years-long student debts to their finances.

Gopal said when someone comes to New Jersey on an H-1B visa, they're bringing their own unique expertise, intellect and insight to the challenges and opportunities the state faces.

"But when we deny their children the opportunity to access an affordable college education right here at home, we're shutting the door on a whole new generation of brilliance and talent. When we make higher education more affordable to these kids, we're supporting their academic pursuits while encouraging them to cultivate and apply their skills right here in the Garden State," referring to the nickname by which New Jersey is known.

Edison School Board Member Jerry Shi said while waiting to get approval on their green cards, these H-1B students' parents are also taxpayers.

"Providing their children with in-state tuition will help reducing the burden of college tuition for the studies and their parents at the same time allowing the state to keep the talent in NJ," Shi said.

New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said levelling the playing field by making higher education more affordable for children of H-1B visa holders is not only the right thing to do, "but also makes sense from an economic development standpoint".

Ruiz said H-1B visas have one of the longest waitlists for citizenship and unfortunately, until now, if a student's parent has an H-1B visa they were ineligible for in-state tuition.

"This law will make the dream of achieving a college degree a reality for many around the state by allowing them to access in-state tuition rates," Ruiz said.

"Individuals who are here through an H-1B visa could be here for many years with their families, raising their children in the state," said Assembly members Mukherji, Benson and Karabinchak.

"Broadening access to our colleges and universities in-state tuition is worthy of the specialty work and type of service they have committed to while living in New Jersey," they said.

Professor of Education at Fairleigh Dickinson University Khyati Y Joshi, whose research area is Immigration and South Asian Americans, recalled her experience of seeing how college affordability affects students' academic performance and how college debt limits their choices in adulthood.

"The young people who will benefit from this bill have lived in New Jersey most of their lives. We've invested in their K-12 education and it's smart to continue the investment of keeping them here in New Jersey," Joshi said.

Alphaori Technologies CEO Balaji Sankaran said that as a first generation immigrant who has gone through the entire process to becoming a permanent resident, he can vouch that this bill will be a "huge support for H-1B families to provide better education for their kids and create amazing, productive future citizens".

The US state of New Jersey will enact a legislation that will make college and universities more affordable for the children of H-1B visa holders, mostly Indian IT professionals, bringing a huge financial relief to them.

The US state of New Jersey will enact a legislation that will make college and universities more affordable for the children of H-1B visa holders, mostly Indian IT professionals, bringing a huge financial relief to them. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy on Tuesday signed the legislation 'S2555', allowing New Jersey students, who are the children of H-1B visa holders, to qualify for in-state tuition at public institutions of higher education. A majority of H-1B visa holders are Indians and this legislation comes as a significant relief to them, amidst an environment of stringent immigration laws and scrutiny under the Trump administration. "New Jerseyans deserve equal access to higher education, and today we are taking another step towards making that possible. I'm proud to sign the legislation to help our students achieve their education goals, pursue a successful future and live their dreams here in their home state," Murphy said. The legislation exempts dependent students whose parents or guardians hold H-1B visas from paying out-of-state tuition provided they meet certain criteria, including having graduated from a New Jersey high school and having attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years. New Jersey is home to prestigious institutions such as Princeton University. Secretary of Higher Education Zakiya Smith Ellis said New Jersey is working to make college affordable for New Jerseyans and the legislation will expand postsecondary opportunities to more residents such as dependents of H-1B visa holders. India's Deputy Consul General in New York Shatru Sinha welcomed the legislation, saying in a tweet that it is an "important initiative for the Indian community". Primary sponsors of the legislation include Indian-American Democratic Senator Vin Gopal, Senator M Teresa Ruiz and Assembly members Raj Mukherji, Daniel Benson, and Robert Karabinchak. President and CEO of Edison-based health technology company HealthEC Arthur Kapoor welcomed the legislation, saying it will tremendously benefit the Indian diaspora in New Jersey. "Indian diaspora welcomes this bill since H-1B visa holders pay enormous amounts of taxes as well as social security contributions which they are never able to use as they return to India before they are eligible to receive benefits. This bill will allow their kids access to the best education," Kapoor said. Indians have among the longest wait times for Green Cards. While school education from kindergarten to grade 12 is free in American public schools, non-citizens and immigrant children have to pay exorbitant fees to study in colleges and universities, adding years-long student debts to their finances. Gopal said when someone comes to New Jersey on an H-1B visa, they're bringing their own unique expertise, intellect and insight to the challenges and opportunities the state faces. "But when we deny their children the opportunity to access an affordable college education right here at home, we're shutting the door on a whole new generation of brilliance and talent. When we make higher education more affordable to these kids, we're supporting their academic pursuits while encouraging them to cultivate and apply their skills right here in the Garden State," referring to the nickname by which New Jersey is known. Edison School Board Member Jerry Shi said while waiting to get approval on their green cards, these H-1B students' parents are also taxpayers. "Providing their children with in-state tuition will help reducing the burden of college tuition for the studies and their parents at the same time allowing the state to keep the talent in NJ," Shi said. New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan said levelling the playing field by making higher education more affordable for children of H-1B visa holders is not only the right thing to do, "but also makes sense from an economic development standpoint". Ruiz said H-1B visas have one of the longest waitlists for citizenship and unfortunately, until now, if a student's parent has an H-1B visa they were ineligible for in-state tuition. "This law will make the dream of achieving a college degree a reality for many around the state by allowing them to access in-state tuition rates," Ruiz said. "Individuals who are here through an H-1B visa could be here for many years with their families, raising their children in the state," said Assembly members Mukherji, Benson and Karabinchak. "Broadening access to our colleges and universities in-state tuition is worthy of the specialty work and type of service they have committed to while living in New Jersey," they said. Professor of Education at Fairleigh Dickinson University Khyati Y Joshi, whose research area is Immigration and South Asian Americans, recalled her experience of seeing how college affordability affects students' academic performance and how college debt limits their choices in adulthood. "The young people who will benefit from this bill have lived in New Jersey most of their lives. We've invested in their K-12 education and it's smart to continue the investment of keeping them here in New Jersey," Joshi said. Alphaori Technologies CEO Balaji Sankaran said that as a first generation immigrant who has gone through the entire process to becoming a permanent resident, he can vouch that this bill will be a "huge support for H-1B families to provide better education for their kids and create amazing, productive future citizens".

Relief to Indians on card as New Jersey to lower college costs of H1B visa holders' children

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-former-jk-legislators-detained-after-the-abrogation-of-article-370-released-271077">Jammu and Kashmir</a> to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible".

A five-Judge Constitution Bench of Justices NV Ramana, SK Kaul, R Subhash Reddy, BR Gavai and Surya Kant today continued hearing various pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Attorney General KK Venugopal submitted how accession of the new Union Territory to Indian union took place and said that "it (abrogation of Article 370) is irreversible".

"I want to show that sovereignty of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-only-gave-separatism-and-terrorism-to-jammu-and-kashmir-pm-modi-258954">Jammu and Kashmir</a> was indeed temporary. We are a Union of States," Venugopal told the court. Advocate Dr Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for one of the petitioners, said: "A State was demoted to the status of a Union Territory using Article 3 of the Constitution of India for the first time. If they (Centre) do this for one State, they can do it for any State."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-incidents-down-in-kashmir-infiltrations-spike-after-article-370-abrogation-265927">Terror incidents down in Kashmir, infiltrations spike after Article 370 abrogation</a>

Dhavan said that the Central government deliberately imposed President's Rule in the erstwhile state and pointed to a map of Jammu and Kashmir. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Jammu and Kashmir, interrupted Dhavan and said that "what he is saying is irrelevant".

On this, Dhavan replied, "If Attorney General could bring (JL) Nehru in his historical trip, I can surely show milords a map. I do not have to take your permission." The top court on Wednesday also heard petitions which were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August last year and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible".

The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that the abrogation of Article 370 allowed the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to the Indian union and said that the move is "irreversible". A five-Judge Constitution Bench of Justices NV Ramana, SK Kaul, R Subhash Reddy, BR Gavai and Surya Kant today continued hearing various pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, which conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Attorney General KK Venugopal submitted how accession of the new Union Territory to Indian union took place and said that "it (abrogation of Article 370) is irreversible". "I want to show that sovereignty of Jammu and Kashmir was indeed temporary. We are a Union of States," Venugopal told the court. Advocate Dr Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for one of the petitioners, said: "A State was demoted to the status of a Union Territory using Article 3 of the Constitution of India for the first time. If they (Centre) do this for one State, they can do it for any State." Also Read: Terror incidents down in Kashmir, infiltrations spike after Article 370 abrogation Dhavan said that the Central government deliberately imposed President's Rule in the erstwhile state and pointed to a map of Jammu and Kashmir. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Jammu and Kashmir, interrupted Dhavan and said that "what he is saying is irrelevant". On this, Dhavan replied, "If Attorney General could bring (JL) Nehru in his historical trip, I can surely show milords a map. I do not have to take your permission." The top court on Wednesday also heard petitions which were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August last year and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Abrogation of Article 370 irreversible, Centre tells SC

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-farmers-seek-state-bjp-chiefs-support-to-oppose-3-capitals-plan-of-jagan-government-270016">farmers </a>were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-farmers-protest-against-gn-rao-committee-report-runs-into-day-3-269542">issue of farmers</a>' suicide in Maharashtra.

"It is ok if political leaders do not give money to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-farmers-protests-in-a-unique-way-264942">farmers</a>. They do not only need loan waivers, but they also need emotional support and encouragement. We need to talk to them. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-cabinet-meeting-thackeray-announces-rs-20-crore-for-raigads-development-265144">Farmers </a>are not beggars," he said while addressing a public event in Chinchwad city of Maharashtra.

<img alt="Farmers in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0829fd21-cd57-4b0f-91d2-a92fdaccd0a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2877%29_2.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Farmers in India (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-wont-be-eligible-for-waiver-scheme-if-loan-exceeds-rs-2-lakh-maharashtra-government-270778">Farmers won't be eligible for waiver scheme if loan exceeds Rs 2 lakh: Maharashtra government</a>

He also stressed up-on fixing the prices of the vegetables and urged people not to bargain with the vegetable vendors.

"Everything here has a fixed price but on our tomato and potato, there is no price label. Your fees are fixed, the prices of the cars are fixed...I request you all not to bargain with the vegetable vendors on the streets. We must all think about the problems farmers are facing..."

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that farmers were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the issue of farmers' suicide in Maharashtra.

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that farmers were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the issue of farmers' suicide in Maharashtra. "It is ok if political leaders do not give money to farmers. They do not only need loan waivers, but they also need emotional support and encouragement. We need to talk to them. Farmers are not beggars," he said while addressing a public event in Chinchwad city of Maharashtra. [ Farmers in India (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Also Read: Farmers won't be eligible for waiver scheme if loan exceeds Rs 2 lakh: Maharashtra government He also stressed up-on fixing the prices of the vegetables and urged people not to bargain with the vegetable vendors. "Everything here has a fixed price but on our tomato and potato, there is no price label. Your fees are fixed, the prices of the cars are fixed...I request you all not to bargain with the vegetable vendors on the streets. We must all think about the problems farmers are facing..."

Farmers are not beggars, don't need just loan waivers: Nana Patekar

FIR has been registered against three people including former cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mohammed-azharuddin-named-telangana-congress-working-president-days-before-assembly-polls-180445">Mohammed Azharuddin</a> for allegedly duping a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/british-travel-firm-thomas-cook-collapses-251355">travel agent</a>, Mohammad Shadab, of more than Rs 20 lakh.

However, Mohammad Azharuddin has refuted allegations and said: "I strongly rubbish the false <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shabana-azmi-accident-fir-filed-against-her-driver-for-rash-driving-275211">FIR</a> filed against me in Aurangabad. I am consulting my legal team and would be taking action as necessary."

Azharuddin's personal assistant Mujeeb lives in Augurangabad and has good relations with the travel agency of Shadab.

The travel agent alleged that Mujeeb asked him to book some flight tickets but did not pay the amount.

The police have booked the three under Section 406, 420 and 34 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-caa-stir-court-to-hear-bail-plea-of-accused-in-darya-ganj-violence-case-today-272923">Indian Penal Code</a>.

FIR has been registered against three people including former cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin for allegedly duping a travel agent, Mohammad Shadab, of more than Rs 20 lakh.

FIR has been registered against three people including former cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin for allegedly duping a travel agent, Mohammad Shadab, of more than Rs 20 lakh. However, Mohammad Azharuddin has refuted allegations and said: "I strongly rubbish the false FIR filed against me in Aurangabad. I am consulting my legal team and would be taking action as necessary." Azharuddin's personal assistant Mujeeb lives in Augurangabad and has good relations with the travel agency of Shadab. The travel agent alleged that Mujeeb asked him to book some flight tickets but did not pay the amount. The police have booked the three under Section 406, 420 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code.

FIR registered against Mohammad Azharuddin, 2 others for duping travel agent

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-jan-sena-candidate-madhusudan-gupta-smashes-evm-in-polling-booth-in-andhra-pradesh-209509">Jana Sena</a> Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-bjp-jana-sena-announce-coalition-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-274687">Pawan Kalyan</a> on Thursday met BJP national president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagat-prakash-nadda-seeks-opposition-support-to-run-rajya-sabha-smoothly-230009">Jagat Prakash Nadda</a> at the latter's residence here.

The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-bjp-jana-sena-announce-coalition-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-274687">Andhra Pradesh: BJP, Jana Sena announce coalition to emerge as ‘third alternative’</a>

BJP Andhra Pradesh in-charge Sunil Deodhar and Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha Rao were also present at the meeting.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bjp-plans-campaign-blitzkrieg-for-delhi-polls-shah-and-nadda-to-hold-padyatra-meetings-in-every-constituency-275873">BJP plans campaign blitzkrieg for Delhi polls; Shah and Nadda to hold padyatra, meetings in every constituency</a>

They&nbsp;have come together to defeat their common enemy&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-launches-ysr-vahana-mitra-scheme-253802">YSR Congress</a>&nbsp;in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Andhra%20Pradesh:%20Farmers%20seek%20state%20BJP%20chief's%20support%20to%20oppose%20plan%20of%20three%20capitals">outside</a>&nbsp;Amaravati.

The two parties have also decided to organise a joint massive parade in Vijayawada on February 2.

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan on Thursday met BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda at the latter's residence here. The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance.

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan on Thursday met BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda at the latter's residence here. The meeting came after the two parties announced their alliance. Also read: Andhra Pradesh: BJP, Jana Sena announce coalition to emerge as ‘third alternative’ BJP Andhra Pradesh in-charge Sunil Deodhar and Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha Rao were also present at the meeting. Also read: BJP plans campaign blitzkrieg for Delhi polls; Shah and Nadda to hold padyatra, meetings in every constituency They have come together to defeat their common enemy YSR Congress in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital outside Amaravati. The two parties have also decided to organise a joint massive parade in Vijayawada on February 2.

Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan meets JP Nadda in Delhi

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