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TMC Parliamentary Party Leader in Rajya Sabha <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-case-trinamool-congress-rajya-sabha-mp-derek-obrien-appears-before-cbi-241875">Derek O'Brien</a> on Thursday gave a Zero Hour notice in the Upper House over 'I&amp;B advisories to TV channels'.

On Wednesday, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-withdrawal-of-jammu-and-kashmir-reservation-second-amendment-bill-266254"> Information and Broadcasting</a> (I&amp;B) Ministry issued advisories to all TV channels asking them to broadcast content strictly in adherence to the Programme and Advertising Codes as prescribed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zee-complains-to-ib-ministry-against-den-networks-seeks-cancellation-of-das-license-35204">Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act</a>, 1995.

"It is hereby reiterated that all TV channels are advised to be particularly cautious with regard to any content which is likely to encourage or incite violence or contains anything against maintenance of law and order, or which promotes anti-national attitudes, or contains anything affecting the integrity of the nation and ensure that no such content is telecast which is violative of these codes," the advisory said.

The advisory came in the wake of protests in the North-East, particularly in Assam, over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-votes-in-favour-of-introduction-of-citizenship-amendment-bill-267153">Citizenship Amendment Bill</a> which has been cleared by both the Houses of Parliament.

As many as 125 members of the Rajya Sabha voted in favour of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

TMC Parliamentary Party Leader in Rajya Sabha Derek O'Brien on Thursday gave a Zero Hour notice in the Upper House over 'I&B advisories to TV channels'. On Wednesday, the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry issued advisories to all TV channels asking them to broadcast content strictly in adherence to the Programme and Advertising Codes as prescribed in the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.

TMC Parliamentary Party Leader in Rajya Sabha Derek O'Brien on Thursday gave a Zero Hour notice in the Upper House over 'I&B advisories to TV channels'. On Wednesday, the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry issued advisories to all TV channels asking them to broadcast content strictly in adherence to the Programme and Advertising Codes as prescribed in the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. "It is hereby reiterated that all TV channels are advised to be particularly cautious with regard to any content which is likely to encourage or incite violence or contains anything against maintenance of law and order, or which promotes anti-national attitudes, or contains anything affecting the integrity of the nation and ensure that no such content is telecast which is violative of these codes," the advisory said. The advisory came in the wake of protests in the North-East, particularly in Assam, over the Citizenship Amendment Bill which has been cleared by both the Houses of Parliament. As many as 125 members of the Rajya Sabha voted in favour of the Bill while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Anti-Citizenship Amendment Bill  protests: Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over 'Information and Broadcasting advisories to TV channels'

The Law and Legislative Affairs Department has written a letter to district magistrates of the eight districts to withdraw cases registered by the police against residents belonging to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-election-2019-voting-for-third-phase-begins-267763">Schedule Tribes</a> in Naxal-affected areas of the state.

The department asked the district magistrates to take "immediate" action to withdraw the cases under the provisions of Section 321 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The move comes after Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-engineer-wife-among-18-indians-kidnapped-by-nigerian-pirates-266832">Bhupesh Baghel</a>-led state government constituted a seven-member review committee, on March 8, 2019, to review the cases while expressing deep concern over the harassment of scheduled tribe residents and villagers of Naxal-affected areas of the state, especially in Bastar region.

According to official records, 115 cases were registered in Jagdalpur, 7 in Dantewada, 8 in Kondagaon, 3 in Bijapur, 3 in Sukuma, 34 in Kanker and 1 in Narayanpur.

The Committee under the chairmanship of Supreme Court Justice<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/what-happened-at-the-cwc-meeting-the-inside-story-221561"> AK Patnaik</a>&nbsp;recommended withdrawing cases following which the Law and Legislative Affairs Department has decided to withdraw the prosecution.

As per the decision taken in the first meeting of the Committee on April 24 and October 2 and October 30, the matter was sent to the Law Department recommending the return of 313 cases registered under the Chhattisgarh Excise Act.

Other 312 cases of Indian penal code have been sent by the Patnayak committee to a committee constituted by the Director-General of Police DM Awasthi, which is under Section 265A, 265B and 321 CRPC which shall submit its report to the Patnaik Committee.

The Law and Legislative Affairs Department has written a letter to district magistrates of the eight districts to withdraw cases registered by the police against residents belonging to Schedule Tribes in Naxal-affected areas of the state.

The Law and Legislative Affairs Department has written a letter to district magistrates of the eight districts to withdraw cases registered by the police against residents belonging to Schedule Tribes in Naxal-affected areas of the state. The department asked the district magistrates to take "immediate" action to withdraw the cases under the provisions of Section 321 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The move comes after Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel-led state government constituted a seven-member review committee, on March 8, 2019, to review the cases while expressing deep concern over the harassment of scheduled tribe residents and villagers of Naxal-affected areas of the state, especially in Bastar region. According to official records, 115 cases were registered in Jagdalpur, 7 in Dantewada, 8 in Kondagaon, 3 in Bijapur, 3 in Sukuma, 34 in Kanker and 1 in Narayanpur. The Committee under the chairmanship of Supreme Court Justice AK Patnaik recommended withdrawing cases following which the Law and Legislative Affairs Department has decided to withdraw the prosecution. As per the decision taken in the first meeting of the Committee on April 24 and October 2 and October 30, the matter was sent to the Law Department recommending the return of 313 cases registered under the Chhattisgarh Excise Act. Other 312 cases of Indian penal code have been sent by the Patnayak committee to a committee constituted by the Director-General of Police DM Awasthi, which is under Section 265A, 265B and 321 CRPC which shall submit its report to the Patnaik Committee.

Chhattisgarh: Law department directs administration to withdraw cases against Scheduled Tribes in Naxal-affected areas

Former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uae-have-transformed-and-matured-into-strategic-partnership-pranab-mukherjee-248953">Pranab Mukherjee</a> on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/economy-debate-narendra-modis-nda-versus-manmohan-singhs-upa-267271">Gross Domestic Product</a> (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact.

"I am not very much worried over the slow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wall-street-week-ahead-tariff-deadline-keeps-focus-on-trade-as-2019-draws-to-close-266795">GDP growth</a> because certain things happened, which had its impact," said Mukherjee at a felicitation programme at the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata on Wednesday.

The former finance minister in the UPA government further stated that "the sanctity of data as fact has to be kept intact, it cannot be manipulated or designed in any particular way. That will be disastrous."

"Sometimes I read in newspapers that data is questioned, I feel sad. I used to take pride in the authenticity of the Economic Survey, which was brought out every year before the presentation of the budget," he added.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact. "I am not very much worried over the slow GDP growth because certain things happened, which had its impact," said Mukherjee at a felicitation programme at the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata on Wednesday. The former finance minister in the UPA government further stated that "the sanctity of data as fact has to be kept intact, it cannot be manipulated or designed in any particular way. That will be disastrous." "Sometimes I read in newspapers that data is questioned, I feel sad. I used to take pride in the authenticity of the Economic Survey, which was brought out every year before the presentation of the budget," he added.

Not worried over slow GDP growth: Pranab Mukherjee

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/2002-gujarat-riots-nanavati-mehta-commission-gives-clean-chit-to-narendra-modi-267592">Narendra Modi </a>on Thursday assured the people of Assam that no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture, amid protests in parts of the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

"I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow," the Prime Minister tweeted.

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I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAB</a>. 
 
I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1204981291730341888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The Central Government and I are totally committed to constitutionally safeguard the political, linguistic, cultural and land rights of the Assamese people as per the spirit of Clause 6," he said in another tweet.

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The Central Government and I are totally committed to constitutionally safeguard the political, linguistic, cultural and land rights of the Assamese people as per the spirit of Clause 6.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1204981391710019584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the discussions on the CAB, Union Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-rise-of-amit-shah-as-indias-new-loh-purush-242162">Amit Shah</a> had said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is committed to preserving linguistic and cultural rights as well as the social identity of people in northeastern states.

"In northeastern states, we will try to address the issues raised by them about the law. We repeat our commitment to preserving the language, culture, and social identity rights of northeastern states. There are provisions to preserve these rights. The concern of the northeast will be addressed, we had said this earlier," he said. 
Assam's capital city Guwahati and its district Dibrugarh have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cab-to-function-like-a-one-time-drive-says-top-rss-functionary-267715">CAB</a>) in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

The administration has also suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state-Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup.

An order of the Assam administration warned that violation of the "promulgation" will be punishable under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-he-goes-missing-is-found-congress-leader-hardik-patel-visit-togadia-in-hospital-29739">Section 188 IPC</a> and also under the relevant provision of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.

The decision came in the wake of protests in the state against the CAB.

Also, the Indian Army said that two columns of Assam Rifles troops have been deployed in Tripura and the third column in Assam is on standby at the request of the city Administration in Tripura and Assam.

The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-citizenship-amendment-bill-267747">Rajya Sabha</a> passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Assam that no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture, amid protests in parts of the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Assam that no one can take away their rights, unique identity and beautiful culture, amid protests in parts of the state against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019. "I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow," the Prime Minister tweeted. I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry after the passing of #CAB. I want to assure them- no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2019 × "The Central Government and I are totally committed to constitutionally safeguard the political, linguistic, cultural and land rights of the Assamese people as per the spirit of Clause 6," he said in another tweet. The Central Government and I are totally committed to constitutionally safeguard the political, linguistic, cultural and land rights of the Assamese people as per the spirit of Clause 6. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2019 × During the discussions on the CAB, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is committed to preserving linguistic and cultural rights as well as the social identity of people in northeastern states. "In northeastern states, we will try to address the issues raised by them about the law. We repeat our commitment to preserving the language, culture, and social identity rights of northeastern states. There are provisions to preserve these rights. The concern of the northeast will be addressed, we had said this earlier," he said. Assam's capital city Guwahati and its district Dibrugarh have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders in the wake of protests after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB) in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The administration has also suspended mobile Internet services for 24 hours from 7 pm on Wednesday in ten districts of the state-Lakhimpur, Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Kamrup (metro) and Kamrup. An order of the Assam administration warned that violation of the "promulgation" will be punishable under Section 188 IPC and also under the relevant provision of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. The decision came in the wake of protests in the state against the CAB. Also, the Indian Army said that two columns of Assam Rifles troops have been deployed in Tripura and the third column in Assam is on standby at the request of the city Administration in Tripura and Assam. The CAB smoothly sailed through Parliament after the Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

No one can take away your rights, unique identity: Prime Minister assures Assam on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner.

Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same.

The BJP led state dispensation has also said to have released a payment of Rs 76,943.02 crores to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/question-those-who-opposed-repealing-article-370-says-amit-shah-254551">sugarcane</a> farmers as prices for their produce.

Also, Rs 114.07 crores as payment against unpaid cane prices to 85,178 farmers in the state by launching a campaign in cooperative cane societies and sugar mills.

The total unpaid sugar cane price payment stood at Rs 129.37 crores.

Of the total Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers, Rs.30,161 crores for crushing season 2018-19, as well as cane price payment of Rs.673.05 crores for the current crushing season 2019-20, is included.

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner. Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same.

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner. Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same. The BJP led state dispensation has also said to have released a payment of Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers as prices for their produce. Also, Rs 114.07 crores as payment against unpaid cane prices to 85,178 farmers in the state by launching a campaign in cooperative cane societies and sugar mills. The total unpaid sugar cane price payment stood at Rs 129.37 crores. Of the total Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers, Rs.30,161 crores for crushing season 2018-19, as well as cane price payment of Rs.673.05 crores for the current crushing season 2019-20, is included.

Uttar Pradesh government to monitor sugarcane price payment on daily basis

Voting is underway for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand. The poll-bound districts are Ranchi, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Chatra, Giridih, Bokaro and Saraikela-Kharsawan.

Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates are in the fray&nbsp;for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates.&nbsp;

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Voting begins for 17 constituencies in the third phase of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JharkhandAssemblyPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JharkhandAssemblyPolls</a> <a href="https://t.co/yUk68N0s5z">pic.twitter.com/yUk68N0s5z</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1204936435595268099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, voting for the first two rounds was held on November 30 and December 7.

The next two rounds of the five-phase election will be conducted on December 16 and December 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 23.&nbsp;

Voting is underway for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand. The poll-bound districts are Ranchi, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Chatra, Giridih, Bokaro and Saraikela-Kharsawan.

Voting is underway for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand. The poll-bound districts are Ranchi, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Chatra, Giridih, Bokaro and Saraikela-Kharsawan. Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates are in the fray for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates. Voting begins for 17 constituencies in the third phase of the #JharkhandAssemblyPolls pic.twitter.com/yUk68N0s5z — ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2019 × Earlier, voting for the first two rounds was held on November 30 and December 7. The next two rounds of the five-phase election will be conducted on December 16 and December 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 23.

Jharkhand Assembly election 2019: Polling underway for 17 seats in 3rd phase

In India Citizenship amendment bill passed in Rajya Sabha. 125 votes are in favour of the bill and 105 votes are in against of the bill.

India: Citizenship amendment bill passed in Rajya Sabha

After WION named several experts involved in information warfare on behalf of the Pakistan government, Andrew Korybko clarified saying that the "anti-Indian" label attributed to him was "misleading, if not factually false in several instances".

Describing his work, Korybko admitted that he was "critical of Indian foreign policy" because he believed that India's mantra of so-called "multi-alignment" "is mostly just a cover for deceiving Russia and China as the country pivots towards the US by entering into an unprecedented military-strategic partnership with it."

However, Korybko maintained that he had arrived at the conclusion after "objectively existing, easily verifiable" reports which were "reported upon by Indian media itself, for example, LEMOA, COMCASA, trade negotiations, joint military drills, hostile statements against China, and even trends in the arms trade (as reported by SIPRI and republished in Indian media) proving that India's share of Russian armaments have drastically decreased over the past decade."

"I actually encouraged Russian parliamentarians to participate in the joint Indo-Japanese "Asia-Africa Growth Corridor" (AAGC) for revitalising the Far East. I did not mention anything that could even remotely be interpreted as "anti-Indian," Korybko asserted in an email to WION.

"Whereas my online articles are critical of India when advising decision-makers capable of implementing ideas into practice, I strongly encouraged the strengthening of bilateral relations because I argued that the dimension described benefits Russia's grand strategic interests," Korybko said, adding, "what I advised has since come to partially pass since PM Modi's participation in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok in September as President Putin's guest of honour and the unveiling of the Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor (VCMC), which I analysed elsewhere as representing a milestone in bilateral relations."

"I vigorously argued that while I disagree with Russia's policy of recognising India's annexation of Kashmir, I understand why it did so, and that Russia did not in any way support Pakistan's position on this issue."

Korybko added that he had written entire series of articles on it, elucidating that it "cannot by any objective means be described as "anti-Indian" despite my personal view being that this was the morally wrong stance to take, though once again, I explained why Russia did it and what it intends to gain by doing so."

"Breaking "taboo", I pointed out how Russia and China are at odds over Kashmir since their positions are contradictory, which cannot be described as an "anti-Indian" position but merely an objective observation," Korybko explained.

"I'm so concerned with the pace and scope of Russia's pivot to India that I even wrote that Moscow must balance these ties with Beijing in order to not destabilize RIC, offering some proposals for how this could happen," he said.

"On the topic of my supposed lack of educational and institutional credentials, it should be clear beyond any doubt whatsoever that the 'source' who shared that claim with you was either totally unprofessional and hadn't even spent the time needed to research my work and/or intended for you to share factually false claims about me which would then have provoked me to publicly respond and discredit your outlet with the evidence that I just shared," Korybko said.

Korybko observed that the "source" in the WION story intended to "publicly smear" him out of fear that the other India-critical analyses written by him may have some "identifiable effect in shaping public and professional perceptions" and to "trick your outlet into sharing literally fake, slanderous, and libellous claims about me so that I then, in turn, discredit you."

Korybko, however, appreciated WION's journalistic integrity in reaching out to him before running the story while accepting that it was WION's "editorial decision to proceed with it" but added that it was "factually false, slanderous and libellous claims".

After WION named several experts involved in information warfare on behalf of the Pakistan government, Andrew Korybko clarified saying that the "anti-Indian" label attributed to him was "misleading, if not factually false in several instances".

After WION named several experts involved in information warfare on behalf of the Pakistan government, Andrew Korybko clarified saying that the "anti-Indian" label attributed to him was "misleading, if not factually false in several instances". Describing his work, Korybko admitted that he was "critical of Indian foreign policy" because he believed that India's mantra of so-called "multi-alignment" "is mostly just a cover for deceiving Russia and China as the country pivots towards the US by entering into an unprecedented military-strategic partnership with it." However, Korybko maintained that he had arrived at the conclusion after "objectively existing, easily verifiable" reports which were "reported upon by Indian media itself, for example, LEMOA, COMCASA, trade negotiations, joint military drills, hostile statements against China, and even trends in the arms trade (as reported by SIPRI and republished in Indian media) proving that India's share of Russian armaments have drastically decreased over the past decade." "I actually encouraged Russian parliamentarians to participate in the joint Indo-Japanese "Asia-Africa Growth Corridor" (AAGC) for revitalising the Far East. I did not mention anything that could even remotely be interpreted as "anti-Indian," Korybko asserted in an email to WION. "Whereas my online articles are critical of India when advising decision-makers capable of implementing ideas into practice, I strongly encouraged the strengthening of bilateral relations because I argued that the dimension described benefits Russia's grand strategic interests," Korybko said, adding, "what I advised has since come to partially pass since PM Modi's participation in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok in September as President Putin's guest of honour and the unveiling of the Vladivostok-Chennai Maritime Corridor (VCMC), which I analysed elsewhere as representing a milestone in bilateral relations." "I vigorously argued that while I disagree with Russia's policy of recognising India's annexation of Kashmir, I understand why it did so, and that Russia did not in any way support Pakistan's position on this issue." Korybko added that he had written entire series of articles on it, elucidating that it "cannot by any objective means be described as "anti-Indian" despite my personal view being that this was the morally wrong stance to take, though once again, I explained why Russia did it and what it intends to gain by doing so." "Breaking "taboo", I pointed out how Russia and China are at odds over Kashmir since their positions are contradictory, which cannot be described as an "anti-Indian" position but merely an objective observation," Korybko explained. "I'm so concerned with the pace and scope of Russia's pivot to India that I even wrote that Moscow must balance these ties with Beijing in order to not destabilize RIC, offering some proposals for how this could happen," he said. "On the topic of my supposed lack of educational and institutional credentials, it should be clear beyond any doubt whatsoever that the 'source' who shared that claim with you was either totally unprofessional and hadn't even spent the time needed to research my work and/or intended for you to share factually false claims about me which would then have provoked me to publicly respond and discredit your outlet with the evidence that I just shared," Korybko said. Korybko observed that the "source" in the WION story intended to "publicly smear" him out of fear that the other India-critical analyses written by him may have some "identifiable effect in shaping public and professional perceptions" and to "trick your outlet into sharing literally fake, slanderous, and libellous claims about me so that I then, in turn, discredit you." Korybko, however, appreciated WION's journalistic integrity in reaching out to him before running the story while accepting that it was WION's "editorial decision to proceed with it" but added that it was "factually false, slanderous and libellous claims".

Andrew Korybko clarifies on WION's report

Jharkhand recorded an estimated voter turnout of 62.03% till 5 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections on Thursday.

In 12 of 17 Assembly seats voting concluded at 3 pm while in the remaining constituencies, including Ranchi, Kanke, and Hatia, voting continued till 5 pm.

Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates were in the fray for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates.&nbsp;

While the highest polling was recorded in the Silli constituency with 76.98 per cent voters casting their votes, the lowest polling was for the Ranchi seat with just 49.1 per cent votes being polled till 5 pm.

The Assembly elections in Jharkhand became a multi-cornered fight with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) breaking off from BJP to fight the elections on its own and other regional parties such as JVM among others already in the competition.

Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) have entered into a coalition to defeat BJP, which is seeking to return to power under the incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das.

The first phase of the election in the state took place on November 30 while the second round was held on December 7.

The fourth phase will be conducted on December 16, and the fifth and last phase on December 20.

The counting of votes will take place on December 23.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jharkhand recorded an estimated voter turnout of 62.03% till 5 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections on Thursday. In 12 of 17 Assembly seats voting concluded at 3 pm while in the remaining constituencies, including Ranchi, Kanke, and Hatia, voting continued till 5 pm.

Jharkhand recorded an estimated voter turnout of 62.03% till 5 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections on Thursday. In 12 of 17 Assembly seats voting concluded at 3 pm while in the remaining constituencies, including Ranchi, Kanke, and Hatia, voting continued till 5 pm. Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates were in the fray for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates. While the highest polling was recorded in the Silli constituency with 76.98 per cent voters casting their votes, the lowest polling was for the Ranchi seat with just 49.1 per cent votes being polled till 5 pm. The Assembly elections in Jharkhand became a multi-cornered fight with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) breaking off from BJP to fight the elections on its own and other regional parties such as JVM among others already in the competition. Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) have entered into a coalition to defeat BJP, which is seeking to return to power under the incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das. The first phase of the election in the state took place on November 30 while the second round was held on December 7. The fourth phase will be conducted on December 16, and the fifth and last phase on December 20. The counting of votes will take place on December 23. (With inputs from agencies)

As voting concludes in Jharkhand Assembly elections, 62.03% voter turnout recorded

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home".&nbsp;

"I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

"Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added.

The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit&nbsp;triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament.

Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong.

"Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference.

Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI.

He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker.&nbsp;

The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit.

"I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen. "Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added. The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament. Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong. "Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference. Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI. He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker. The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit. "I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister cancels India visit due to 'increasing demand at home'

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill or CAB, which grants Indian citizenship to the non-Muslims of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, was passed by the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill will now go to the President for his assent. In the latest update coming in from Guwahati, one protestor has been killed and three others have been injured after the police opened fire. Reports indicated that the protestors hurled stones at a convoy of a foreign delegation.

WION Dispatch: Security forces move to Assam and Tripura as clashes erupt after 'CAB'

India's MEA spokesperson Ravish Kumar has clarified the issue of Bangladesh postponing its Foreign Minister's visit to India. Commenting on the rumours that Bangladesh cancelled its FM visit to India due to the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, the MEA spokesperson said that the relationship between the two countries remains strong as ever.

WION Dispatch: Indian MEA comes clean on Bangladesh

Maldivian Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid who is on a five-day visit to India, will co-chair the sixth India-Maldives Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with EAM S Jaishankar on December 13, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

"On December 13, Foreign Minister Shahid will co-chair the 6th India-Maldives Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with our External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said while addressing a press conference here.

Kumar said the JCM is taking place after a gap of over four years.

"Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale called on Foreign Minister Shahid yesterday. FM Shahid will call on Prime Minister Modi after the JCM," said Kumar.

The Maldivian Foreign Minister is leading a large 31-member delegation with senior officials of all major Ministries and Departments in the Government of Maldives.

The MEA spokesperson said this is reflective of the depth and scope of our partnership with the Maldives which, he emphasised has gained significant momentum over the past one year under the leadership of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Abdulla Shahid arrived in India for the official visit on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Maldivian Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid who is on a five-day visit to India, will co-chair the sixth India-Maldives Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with EAM S Jaishankar on December 13, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

Maldivian Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid who is on a five-day visit to India, will co-chair the sixth India-Maldives Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with EAM S Jaishankar on December 13, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday. "On December 13, Foreign Minister Shahid will co-chair the 6th India-Maldives Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with our External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said while addressing a press conference here. Kumar said the JCM is taking place after a gap of over four years. "Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale called on Foreign Minister Shahid yesterday. FM Shahid will call on Prime Minister Modi after the JCM," said Kumar. The Maldivian Foreign Minister is leading a large 31-member delegation with senior officials of all major Ministries and Departments in the Government of Maldives. The MEA spokesperson said this is reflective of the depth and scope of our partnership with the Maldives which, he emphasised has gained significant momentum over the past one year under the leadership of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Abdulla Shahid arrived in India for the official visit on Wednesday morning.

Maldivian Foreign Minister to co-chair sixth India-Maldives JCM with Jaishankar tomorrow

As per a survey, 56% Indians were victim of online scams by clicking on malicious links. Cybersecurity firm warns Indians from becoming a victim of online shopping discounts during the holiday season. Watch to know more

Increasing number of Indians falling prey to online scams

Nirbhaya's mother on Thursday said that she has appealed to the Supreme Court and Central government to execute the convicts immediately.

"It has been two and a half years since the Supreme Court passed the order on their conviction and 18 months since their review petitions were dismissed. I have appealed to the court and government to hang them immediately," Asha Devi told ANI.

Her comments came in the backdrop of the Supreme Court decision to hear the review petition of one of the convicts Akshay Kumar Singh in the 2012 gang rape case on December 17.

"Court should hear review petition but the petition should have been dismissed earlier. We have no option but to accept the Supreme Court's decision," she said.

We have been struggling for seven years, Devi said, adding that the court must announce the date of their execution soon.

She said that promises of fast-track courts and installation of CCTV cameras which were made in 2012 have not been fulfilled yet.

"In 2012, several such promises were made. Fast track courts have been made but nobody questions the non-availability of judges in them."

Her daughter, a paramedic student, was gang-raped and murder on December 16, 2012, by six men. All the accused were arrested and charged with sexual assault and murder.

One of the accused was a minor and appeared before a juvenile justice court, while another accused committed suicide in Tihar jail. The rest of the convicts are facing the gallows.

The apex court had confirmed capital punishment for the four men in 2017.

One of the convicts, Vinay, moved a mercy petition last month but has now sought to withdraw it.

Nirbhaya's mother on Thursday said that she has appealed to the Supreme Court and Central government to execute the convicts immediately. "It has been two and a half years since the Supreme Court passed the order on their conviction and 18 months since their review petitions were dismissed.

Nirbhaya's mother on Thursday said that she has appealed to the Supreme Court and Central government to execute the convicts immediately. "It has been two and a half years since the Supreme Court passed the order on their conviction and 18 months since their review petitions were dismissed. I have appealed to the court and government to hang them immediately," Asha Devi told ANI. Her comments came in the backdrop of the Supreme Court decision to hear the review petition of one of the convicts Akshay Kumar Singh in the 2012 gang rape case on December 17. "Court should hear review petition but the petition should have been dismissed earlier. We have no option but to accept the Supreme Court's decision," she said. We have been struggling for seven years, Devi said, adding that the court must announce the date of their execution soon. She said that promises of fast-track courts and installation of CCTV cameras which were made in 2012 have not been fulfilled yet. "In 2012, several such promises were made. Fast track courts have been made but nobody questions the non-availability of judges in them." Her daughter, a paramedic student, was gang-raped and murder on December 16, 2012, by six men. All the accused were arrested and charged with sexual assault and murder. One of the accused was a minor and appeared before a juvenile justice court, while another accused committed suicide in Tihar jail. The rest of the convicts are facing the gallows. The apex court had confirmed capital punishment for the four men in 2017. One of the convicts, Vinay, moved a mercy petition last month but has now sought to withdraw it.

Nirbhaya's mother appeals to Supreme Court, Centre to execute the convicts immediately

India's aviation minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-difficult-for-air-india-to-function-if-it-is-not-privatised-aviation-minister-264860">Hardeep Singh Puri</a> today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process.

In a written reply in Lok Sabha, India's aviation minister said that an Air India specific alternative mechanism has been reconstituted after the formation of the new government.&nbsp;

Puri added that following this the strategic disinvestment of Air India has been approved. The national carrier, which has a debt burden of more than Rs 50,000 crore, has been making losses for long and as part of revival efforts, the government has decided on disinvestment. &nbsp;

The Parliament on August 3 had passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable.

Air India's net loss in 2018-19 is provisionally estimated to be Rs 8,556.35 crore.&nbsp;

The minister said various measures, including enabling the swift transition of Jet Airways aircraft to other airlines, have been taken to improve the aviation sector.&nbsp;

The full service carrier Jet Airways shuttered operations in April due to cash crunch. Minister Puri last month had said that the first meeting of the group of ministers (GOM) has met and takeN some decisions about Air India.&nbsp;

Puri had reiterated the same point earlier as well. The aviation minister had said that the government was looking a "fair deal" for the national carrier with several trained professionals needed which included engineers.

India's aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process.

India's aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process. In a written reply in Lok Sabha, India's aviation minister said that an Air India specific alternative mechanism has been reconstituted after the formation of the new government. Puri added that following this the strategic disinvestment of Air India has been approved. The national carrier, which has a debt burden of more than Rs 50,000 crore, has been making losses for long and as part of revival efforts, the government has decided on disinvestment. The Parliament on August 3 had passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable. Air India's net loss in 2018-19 is provisionally estimated to be Rs 8,556.35 crore. The minister said various measures, including enabling the swift transition of Jet Airways aircraft to other airlines, have been taken to improve the aviation sector. The full service carrier Jet Airways shuttered operations in April due to cash crunch. Minister Puri last month had said that the first meeting of the group of ministers (GOM) has met and takeN some decisions about Air India. Puri had reiterated the same point earlier as well. The aviation minister had said that the government was looking a "fair deal" for the national carrier with several trained professionals needed which included engineers.

Government to sell 100% stake in Air India: Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Lok Sabha

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/citizenship-amendment-bill-avoidable-controversy-267862">Citizenship Amendment Bill</a>.&nbsp;

Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders. Mobile services have also been suspended for 48 hours starting from today.

One protestor was killed and three others were injured after police opened fire at the protestors.

According to reports, the police opened fire after the protesters hurled stones at the convoy of a foreign delegation.

As the protests continued to rage, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal appealed people to maintain peace and calm.

"I appeal to the people to maintain peace and not get misled", the Chief Minister said.

Meanwhile, in view of the prevailing situation,&nbsp;four flights from Assam's Dibrugarh airport were cancelled; while all passenger train operations to Assam and Tripura have been suspended. Twelve&nbsp;companies of the railway protection force have also been moved to Assam.

The domestic Ranji trophy cricket matches scheduled to have been held in Assam and Tripura also stand suspended.

Earlier in the day addressing a rally at Jharkhand, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-one-can-take-away-your-rights-unique-identity-prime-minister-assures-assam-on-citizenship-amendment-bill-267780">Narendra Modi assured the people of Assam</a> that there is nothing to worry about.

"I assure the people of Assam, especially the youth, that they should not worry. Nobody can snatch your rights, Your culture, language and tradition will be safeguarded by Clause 6 of Assam Accord," he said at a rally.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday.

As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week.

The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

&nbsp;

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday Citizenship Amendment Bill. Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders.

Protests in India's northeastern state Assam continued to rage on Thursday Citizenship Amendment Bill. Assam's Guwahati city and Dibrugarh district have been placed under indefinite curfew till further orders. Mobile services have also been suspended for 48 hours starting from today. One protestor was killed and three others were injured after police opened fire at the protestors. According to reports, the police opened fire after the protesters hurled stones at the convoy of a foreign delegation. As the protests continued to rage, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal appealed people to maintain peace and calm. "I appeal to the people to maintain peace and not get misled", the Chief Minister said. Meanwhile, in view of the prevailing situation, four flights from Assam's Dibrugarh airport were cancelled; while all passenger train operations to Assam and Tripura have been suspended. Twelve companies of the railway protection force have also been moved to Assam. The domestic Ranji trophy cricket matches scheduled to have been held in Assam and Tripura also stand suspended. Earlier in the day addressing a rally at Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured the people of Assam that there is nothing to worry about. "I assure the people of Assam, especially the youth, that they should not worry. Nobody can snatch your rights, Your culture, language and tradition will be safeguarded by Clause 6 of Assam Accord," he said at a rally. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 sailed through the Parliament after Rajya Sabha passed it on Wednesday. As many as 125 members of the Upper House voted in favour while 105 MPs voted against the Bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha earlier this week. The Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Zoroastrian communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Protests continue to rage in Assam; CM appeals for peace

The Supreme Court on December 12 dismissed a batch of petitions seeking review of its November 9 Ayodhya land dispute case verdict, which cleared the way for construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site.

Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya verdict

Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-verdict-up-shia-central-waqf-board-chairman-raises-objection-against-allotment-of-5-acre-land-to-sunnis-267473">Ayodhya review petitions </a>upholding the November 9 judgement.

The five-judge constitution bench reached a unanimous verdict declaring that the petitions didn't have any merit.

The apex court rejected all 18 review petitions.

In a unanimous verdict, the Supreme Court last month had cleared the way for the construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya and directed the Centre to allot a separate five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board to build a mosque.

The five-judge Supreme Court bench led by ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi had said the entire disputed land spread over 2.7 acres will be handed over to a trust formed by the government, which will monitor the construction of a Ram temple at the site.

On December 2, &nbsp;Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind had filed a petition seeking review of the Supreme Court's verdict on Ayodhya title dispute case, among several other parties. 
&nbsp;

Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed all Ayodhya review petitions upholding the November 9 judgement. The five-judge constitution bench reached a unanimous verdict declaring that the petitions didn't have any merit.

Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed all Ayodhya review petitions upholding the November 9 judgement. The five-judge constitution bench reached a unanimous verdict declaring that the petitions didn't have any merit. The apex court rejected all 18 review petitions. In a unanimous verdict, the Supreme Court last month had cleared the way for the construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya and directed the Centre to allot a separate five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board to build a mosque. The five-judge Supreme Court bench led by ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi had said the entire disputed land spread over 2.7 acres will be handed over to a trust formed by the government, which will monitor the construction of a Ram temple at the site. On December 2, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind had filed a petition seeking review of the Supreme Court's verdict on Ayodhya title dispute case, among several other parties.

Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya case

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill or CAB, which grants Indian citizenship to the non-Muslims of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, was passed by the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill will now go to the President for his assent. In the latest update coming in from Guwahati one protestor has been killed and three others have been injured.

CAB Aftermath: Northeast India hit by protests, 1 dead and 3 injured

Jharkhand recorded 45 per cent polling till 2 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

The polling in the 17 assembly constituencies in the state began peacefully at 0700 hrs on Thursday.

The poll-bound districts are Ranchi, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Chatra, Giridih, Bokaro and Saraikela-Kharsawan.

Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates are in the fray for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates.&nbsp;

Jharkhand recorded 45 per cent polling till 2 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand. The polling in the 17 assembly constituencies in the state began peacefully at 0700 hrs on Thursday.

Jharkhand recorded 45 per cent polling till 2 pm for 17 seats in the third phase of Assembly elections in Jharkhand. The polling in the 17 assembly constituencies in the state began peacefully at 0700 hrs on Thursday. The poll-bound districts are Ranchi, Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Chatra, Giridih, Bokaro and Saraikela-Kharsawan. Overall, in this phase, 309 candidates are in the fray for 17 constituencies. Out of the 17 seats, two are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and one for Schedules Tribe (ST) candidates.

Jharkhand Assembly election 2019: Voter turnout 45% till 2 PM

India is on its way to becoming a prominent global leader in space. 
&nbsp; 
The launch of the fourth Indian spy satellite, the RISAT-2B R1 on Wednesday provides a credential to that. 
&nbsp; 
Outer space is an extraterritorial jurisdiction zone where countries are increasingly rushing in to stake a claim, with over 2000 active satellites currently orbiting the Earth. 
&nbsp; 
A majority of these satellites belong to the United States, Russia, China and Japan, it is into this space that India has launched its latest surveillance satellite.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Last month, India's Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched a Cartosat which to provide the country with high-resolution imagery.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
India is focused on enhancing its military might in space to overcome the blot on Indian intelligence post the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In 2009, India launched RISAT 2B which was meant to be the country's eye in the sky. Later in 2012 RISAT-1 was launched which however was not an advanced satellite.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
RISAT 2B-R1 which weighs 628 kilograms, provides India with an edge.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The satellite has a 37-degree inclination to the Equator, giving it the capability to focus on India's border with Pakistan and China. 
&nbsp; 
RISAT-2B and its latest version are capable of detecting camouflaged military assets. At a height of 346 miles above the earth, its images can pierce clouds even during the night, it was these images that helped India strike at terror camps inside Pakistan's Balakot earlier this year. 
&nbsp; 
India has taken a big leap in space technology and countries are now approaching India to launch its satellites into space.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The satellite launch industry is currently worth $6 billion with the US, France and Russia as its leaders and India catching up.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
India has so far launched more than 300 foreign satellites into space of 33 countries. 
&nbsp; 
The RISAT 2B-R1 is to travel with nine satellites from the US, Japan, Israel and Italy. 
&nbsp; 
For countries in a mad rush to reach space, India offers a cheap and reliable option. 
&nbsp; 
Recently India carried 104 satellites at one go which is the way to go for India's space diplomacy and one more reason for India to celebrate.

India is on its way to becoming a prominent global leader in space. The launch of the fourth Indian spy satellite, the RISAT-2B R1 on Wednesday provides a credential to that.

India is on its way to becoming a prominent global leader in space. The launch of the fourth Indian spy satellite, the RISAT-2B R1 on Wednesday provides a credential to that. Outer space is an extraterritorial jurisdiction zone where countries are increasingly rushing in to stake a claim, with over 2000 active satellites currently orbiting the Earth. A majority of these satellites belong to the United States, Russia, China and Japan, it is into this space that India has launched its latest surveillance satellite. Last month, India's Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched a Cartosat which to provide the country with high-resolution imagery. India is focused on enhancing its military might in space to overcome the blot on Indian intelligence post the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. In 2009, India launched RISAT 2B which was meant to be the country's eye in the sky. Later in 2012 RISAT-1 was launched which however was not an advanced satellite. RISAT 2B-R1 which weighs 628 kilograms, provides India with an edge. The satellite has a 37-degree inclination to the Equator, giving it the capability to focus on India's border with Pakistan and China. RISAT-2B and its latest version are capable of detecting camouflaged military assets. At a height of 346 miles above the earth, its images can pierce clouds even during the night, it was these images that helped India strike at terror camps inside Pakistan's Balakot earlier this year. India has taken a big leap in space technology and countries are now approaching India to launch its satellites into space. The satellite launch industry is currently worth $6 billion with the US, France and Russia as its leaders and India catching up. India has so far launched more than 300 foreign satellites into space of 33 countries. The RISAT 2B-R1 is to travel with nine satellites from the US, Japan, Israel and Italy. For countries in a mad rush to reach space, India offers a cheap and reliable option. Recently India carried 104 satellites at one go which is the way to go for India's space diplomacy and one more reason for India to celebrate.

ISRO's fourth spy satellite RISAT-2B R1 provides further credentials to India's growing space prominence

India ranked ninth on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-thousands-protest-against-climate-change-with-bushfire-in-focus-267674">Climate Change</a> Performance Index (CCPI), above countries like Finland, Chile, and Norway.

Efforts made by India to tackle and control climate change finally have been put into action with the country scoring 66.02 points on the scale.

The highest-ranking country was Sweden at number four, clocking in 75.77 points, followed by Denmark scoring 71.14 points, and Morocco with 70.63 points.

The first three positions were left empty as according to the scale ''no country is doing enough to prevent dangerous climate change''.

The worst performing countries are the United States at number 61 with a score of 18.60. Other countries with dismal improvements include Saudi Arabia (22.03 points), Chinese Taipei (23.33 points), and the Islamic Republic of Iran (28.41 points).

The index used four categories to measure each country's performance. These include greenhouse gas emissions (40 per cent weightage), renewable energy (20 per cet weightage), energy use (20 per cent weightage), and climate policy (20 per cent weightage).

The list is further colour coded with red representing the worst performance and dark green representing the best effort, which no country was able to achieve.&nbsp;

Watch: Climate Change 'Tipping Points'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-climate-change-tipping-points-265326/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, Sweden performed the best while the US showed the least improvement.&nbsp;

Renewable energy was best employed by Sweden and Denmark while Iran, Malaysia, and Russia display the least growth in this arena.

In the context of energy use, Malta, Morocco, and Ukraine exhibited positive results, while Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Canada showed the least improvement.

Furthermore, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-denmark-to-hold-meeting-to-chalk-out-action-plan-against-climate-change-267482">climate policy</a>, which has recently been pushed as the key signifier of positive climate action witnessed the best performance from Denmark and the least effort from United States.

The CCPI was designed by a German environmental and development organisation called Germanwatch EV. The aim is to enhance transparency in international climate politics.

India ranked ninth on the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), above countries like Finland, Chile, and Norway. Efforts made by India to tackle and control climate change finally have been put into action with the country scoring 66.

India ranked ninth on the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), above countries like Finland, Chile, and Norway. Efforts made by India to tackle and control climate change finally have been put into action with the country scoring 66.02 points on the scale. The highest-ranking country was Sweden at number four, clocking in 75.77 points, followed by Denmark scoring 71.14 points, and Morocco with 70.63 points. The first three positions were left empty as according to the scale ''no country is doing enough to prevent dangerous climate change''. The worst performing countries are the United States at number 61 with a score of 18.60. Other countries with dismal improvements include Saudi Arabia (22.03 points), Chinese Taipei (23.33 points), and the Islamic Republic of Iran (28.41 points). The index used four categories to measure each country's performance. These include greenhouse gas emissions (40 per cent weightage), renewable energy (20 per cet weightage), energy use (20 per cent weightage), and climate policy (20 per cent weightage). The list is further colour coded with red representing the worst performance and dark green representing the best effort, which no country was able to achieve. Watch: Climate Change 'Tipping Points' In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, Sweden performed the best while the US showed the least improvement. Renewable energy was best employed by Sweden and Denmark while Iran, Malaysia, and Russia display the least growth in this arena. In the context of energy use, Malta, Morocco, and Ukraine exhibited positive results, while Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Canada showed the least improvement. Furthermore, climate policy, which has recently been pushed as the key signifier of positive climate action witnessed the best performance from Denmark and the least effort from United States. The CCPI was designed by a German environmental and development organisation called Germanwatch EV. The aim is to enhance transparency in international climate politics.

India ranks ninth on Climate Change Performance Index

A bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on Wednesday to amend an existing law concerning the welfare of senior citizens and parents and expand some existing definitions such as maintenance, welfare, children and parents.

The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot.

The Bill seeks to amend the Senior Citizens Act" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-no-aadhaar-card-old-age-home-inmates-denied-pension-32272">Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007</a>.

It provides for the registration of senior citizens care homes and home-care service agencies and minimum standards for senior citizen care homes.&nbsp;

A bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on Wednesday to amend an existing law concerning the welfare of senior citizens and parents and expand some existing definitions such as maintenance, welfare, children and parents.

A bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on Wednesday to amend an existing law concerning the welfare of senior citizens and parents and expand some existing definitions such as maintenance, welfare, children and parents. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot. The Bill seeks to amend the Senior Citizens Act" Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. It provides for the registration of senior citizens care homes and home-care service agencies and minimum standards for senior citizen care homes.

Bill introduced in Lok Sabha to amend Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-haryana-polls-bjp-upbeat-ahead-of-results-says-opposition-marred-by-infighting-257582">Narendra Singh Tomar</a> on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard.

"There is no problem related to the availability of Urea. As far as its distribution is concerned the state government should look into it and I think they are working on it," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi.

A severe shortage of urea which is considered as valuable fertilizer led to a scuffle amongst Madhya Pradesh farmers in Ashok Naga on December 10.

It has been noticed that the state has been facing a urea crisis, leading to a blame game between the Centre and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-six-others-take-oath-as-ministers-of-uddhav-led-maha-vikas-aghadi-government-265137">Kamal Nath</a> led state government.

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard.

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard. "There is no problem related to the availability of Urea. As far as its distribution is concerned the state government should look into it and I think they are working on it," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi. A severe shortage of urea which is considered as valuable fertilizer led to a scuffle amongst Madhya Pradesh farmers in Ashok Naga on December 10. It has been noticed that the state has been facing a urea crisis, leading to a blame game between the Centre and the Kamal Nath led state government.

No problem in availability of urea, state government should look into distribution: Narendra Singh Tomar

The Indian Army has started inducting its newly acquired <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signs-rs-700-crore-contract-with-us-firm-for-72400-assault-rifles-to-replace-insas-196981">American SiG Sauer assault rifles</a> for counter-terrorist operations.

According to the sources, the first lot of 10,000 SiG 716 assault rifles has arrived in India and has been sent to the Northern Command.

In February this year, India had signed a contract for procurement of 72,400 assault rifles from the US-based (it was originally German) company Sig Sauer.&nbsp;

All of the 72,400 rifles were scheduled to be delivered within 12 months of the date of signing of the contract.&nbsp;

The deal was for 72,400 rifles and worth around Rs 700 crore under the fast-track procurement (FTP) route.&nbsp;

According to Sig Sauer's website, the company is a "New Hampshire-based weapons systems provider leading the industry in American innovation, ingenuity, and manufacturing".

This is a rifle that will be used by an infantry soldier and a big move at infantry modernization.

The Indian armed forces are presently equipped with 5.56*45 mm INSAS Rifle. These INSAS rifles will be replaced with 7.62*51 mm assault rifle which according to defence ministry is compact, robust, modern in technology and simple to maintain in field conditions.

Of the 72 400 rifles, Indian army will get 66400, Indian Navy will get 2000, the Indian air force will get 4000.

The development comes even as India is engaging with the US for its defence needs.&nbsp;

Since 2008, the US has bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts from India.&nbsp;

These including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters.

The development comes days after, United States state department has approved sale of Two Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) Self Protection Suites (SPS) for Boeing aircraft to be used in India.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Army has started inducting its newly acquired American SiG Sauer assault rifles for counter-terrorist operations. According to the sources, the first lot of 10,000 SiG 716 assault rifles has arrived in India and has been sent to the Northern Command.

The Indian Army has started inducting its newly acquired American SiG Sauer assault rifles for counter-terrorist operations. According to the sources, the first lot of 10,000 SiG 716 assault rifles has arrived in India and has been sent to the Northern Command. In February this year, India had signed a contract for procurement of 72,400 assault rifles from the US-based (it was originally German) company Sig Sauer. All of the 72,400 rifles were scheduled to be delivered within 12 months of the date of signing of the contract. The deal was for 72,400 rifles and worth around Rs 700 crore under the fast-track procurement (FTP) route. According to Sig Sauer's website, the company is a "New Hampshire-based weapons systems provider leading the industry in American innovation, ingenuity, and manufacturing". This is a rifle that will be used by an infantry soldier and a big move at infantry modernization. The Indian armed forces are presently equipped with 5.56*45 mm INSAS Rifle. These INSAS rifles will be replaced with 7.62*51 mm assault rifle which according to defence ministry is compact, robust, modern in technology and simple to maintain in field conditions. Of the 72 400 rifles, Indian army will get 66400, Indian Navy will get 2000, the Indian air force will get 4000. The development comes even as India is engaging with the US for its defence needs. Since 2008, the US has bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts from India. These including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters. The development comes days after, United States state department has approved sale of Two Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) Self Protection Suites (SPS) for Boeing aircraft to be used in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army receives first batch of Sig Sauer assault rifles to fight against terrorists, Pakistan Army on LoC

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