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Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena filed a writ petition on Saturday in the Supreme Court against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-hai-to-mumkin-hai-devendra-fadnavis-assures-stable-government-in-maharashtra-264088">Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar oath taking</a> as Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy CM respectively.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court against Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar taking oath as CM and Deputy CM of Maharashtra respectively. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/AoyIwrp48T">pic.twitter.com/AoyIwrp48T</a>
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Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state.

The move came at a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the government formation had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party in the last month's assembly elections, could not stake claim to form the government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena filed a writ petition on Saturday in the Supreme Court against Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar oath taking as Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy CM respectively.

Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena filed a writ petition on Saturday in the Supreme Court against Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar oath taking as Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy CM respectively. Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported. Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court against Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar taking oath as CM and Deputy CM of Maharashtra respectively. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/AoyIwrp48T — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state. The move came at a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the government formation had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party in the last month's assembly elections, could not stake claim to form the government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Maharashtra: Shiv Sena files petition in Supreme Court against Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar's oath taking

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar.

They made the remarks at a joint press conference addressed by Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. The press conference was held hours after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn-in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister respectively.

NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane said Ajit Pawar had called him to discuss something. "From there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan," he said.

"Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete, I rushed to Pawar sahab and told him I am with Sharad Pawar and NCP. I was taken there without any prior information," he said.

NCP MLAs, Sandip Kshirsagar and Sunil Bhusara, also echoed Shingane's allegations and affirmed their support to Sharad Pawar.

The NCP supremo said that the party will take action against his nephew for lending support to BJP for government formation in the state.

He also said that NCP will elect its new legislative party leader at 4 pm today.

"Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline. No NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government. All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high," Sharad Pawar said.

He said that NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, which have been in talks will form the government and Fadnavis will not be able to prove his majority.

"I am sure that the Governor has given them time to prove majority but they won't be able to prove it. After that, our three parties will form the government as we had decided earlier," he added.

In a sudden turn of events, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister while Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered the oath of office to the two leaders.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached a final stage.

The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar.

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar. They made the remarks at a joint press conference addressed by Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. The press conference was held hours after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn-in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister respectively. NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane said Ajit Pawar had called him to discuss something. "From there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan," he said. "Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete, I rushed to Pawar sahab and told him I am with Sharad Pawar and NCP. I was taken there without any prior information," he said. NCP MLAs, Sandip Kshirsagar and Sunil Bhusara, also echoed Shingane's allegations and affirmed their support to Sharad Pawar. The NCP supremo said that the party will take action against his nephew for lending support to BJP for government formation in the state. He also said that NCP will elect its new legislative party leader at 4 pm today. "Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline. No NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government. All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high," Sharad Pawar said. He said that NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, which have been in talks will form the government and Fadnavis will not be able to prove his majority. "I am sure that the Governor has given them time to prove majority but they won't be able to prove it. After that, our three parties will form the government as we had decided earlier," he added. In a sudden turn of events, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister while Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered the oath of office to the two leaders. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached a final stage. The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Not aware of oath ceremony at Raj Bhavan, say three NCP MLAs

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress.

"I congratulate Devendra Fadnavis for becoming Maharashtra Chief Minister again. The mandate was given to BJP. Shiv Sena was a part of our alliance and also got votes because of us. But they betrayed the people's mandate. In the last 15 days, they were ready to forge an alliance with Congress, a party that spread malice against Savarkar, brought Emergency and looted the country," he told reporters.

Javadekar said that Shiv Sena has learnt a lesson after betraying the mandate and it has cost them dearly.

"Today is the victory of truth. The mandate of BJP has been respected," he added.

In a major development, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The two leaders were administered the oath by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress. "I congratulate Devendra Fadnavis for becoming Maharashtra Chief Minister again. The mandate was given to BJP. Shiv Sena was a part of our alliance and also got votes because of us. But they betrayed the people's mandate. In the last 15 days, they were ready to forge an alliance with Congress, a party that spread malice against Savarkar, brought Emergency and looted the country," he told reporters. Javadekar said that Shiv Sena has learnt a lesson after betraying the mandate and it has cost them dearly. "Today is the victory of truth. The mandate of BJP has been respected," he added. In a major development, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The two leaders were administered the oath by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena betrayed people's mandate by forging alliance with Congress: Javadekar

Maharashtra Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday arrived at the state BJP office and said that a stable government will be provided to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">Maharashtra</a>.&nbsp;

Fadnavis added that it is possible under PM Modi's leadership.

"Modi hai toh mumkin hai!!" Fadnavis said.

Earlier in the day, in a dramatic turn of events, Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second time after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

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Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai: We will provide a stable government. Modi hai toh mumkin hai!! <a href="https://t.co/vpIWe7fl6h">pic.twitter.com/vpIWe7fl6h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198191964019015682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party's Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state.

The development came after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajits-decision-to-support-bjp-against-the-party-line-sharad-pawar-264066">NCP chief Sharad Pawar</a> on Friday, after concluding discussions with the Congress and the Shiv Sena, told reporters that the parties have a consensus on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's name for the post of Maharashtra CM.

Shiv Sena senior leader Sanjay Raut said that Thackeray has given his consent to lead Maharashtra as the chief minister.&nbsp;

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Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad: Mumbai is the financial capital of India and Maharashtra is a big state. It was a conspiracy (by NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress) to control Mumbai through the backdoor. <a href="https://t.co/74D2yK5nDc">https://t.co/74D2yK5nDc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198179903079768064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that "it was a conspiracy (by NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress) to control Mumbai through the backdoor".

"Throughout the election campaign, Devendra Fadnavis' name was projected as the Maharashtra Chief Minister. Support base of BJP and the prospect of Devendra Fadnavis becoming CM, played a crucial role in success of Shiv Sena candidates," Prasad told media today.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Congress is planning to move its MLAs out of Maharashtra to a Congress-ruled state, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday arrived at the state BJP office and said that a stable government will be provided to Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday arrived at the state BJP office and said that a stable government will be provided to Maharashtra. Fadnavis added that it is possible under PM Modi's leadership. "Modi hai toh mumkin hai!!" Fadnavis said. Earlier in the day, in a dramatic turn of events, Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second time after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai: We will provide a stable government. Modi hai toh mumkin hai!! pic.twitter.com/vpIWe7fl6h — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported. Nationalist Congress Party's Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state. The development came after NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Friday, after concluding discussions with the Congress and the Shiv Sena, told reporters that the parties have a consensus on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's name for the post of Maharashtra CM. Shiv Sena senior leader Sanjay Raut said that Thackeray has given his consent to lead Maharashtra as the chief minister. Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad: Mumbai is the financial capital of India and Maharashtra is a big state. It was a conspiracy (by NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress) to control Mumbai through the backdoor. https://t.co/74D2yK5nDc — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that "it was a conspiracy (by NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress) to control Mumbai through the backdoor". "Throughout the election campaign, Devendra Fadnavis' name was projected as the Maharashtra Chief Minister. Support base of BJP and the prospect of Devendra Fadnavis becoming CM, played a crucial role in success of Shiv Sena candidates," Prasad told media today. Meanwhile, the Congress is planning to move its MLAs out of Maharashtra to a Congress-ruled state, news agency ANI reported. (With inputs from ANI)

Modi hai to mumkin hai: Devendra Fadnavis assures stable government in Maharashtra

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same.&nbsp;

"I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant," Gadkari said.&nbsp;

On Friday the minister had said that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad forms a government, "it will not go much ahead".

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Union Minister &amp; BJP leader, Nitin Gadkari on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraGovtFormation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraGovtFormation</a>: I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant. <a href="https://t.co/Lv9Gc65tKQ">pic.twitter.com/Lv9Gc65tKQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198167942006857728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">Maharashtra's Chief Minister</a> for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar</a>.

The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state.

Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same.

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same. "I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant," Gadkari said. On Friday the minister had said that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad forms a government, "it will not go much ahead". Union Minister & BJP leader, Nitin Gadkari on #MaharashtraGovtFormation: I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant. pic.twitter.com/Lv9Gc65tKQ — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × "This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI. Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported. Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state. Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.

I had said anything can happen in politics, now you know what I meant: Gadkari on Maharashtra turmoil

The Maharashtra Surprise: Devendra Fadnavis takes oath as Maharashtra CM, Ajit Pawar as his deputy

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative&nbsp;leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position.&nbsp;

In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. While BJP's Devendra Fadnavis became the Chief Minister and took oath for the second consecutive term.

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai along with Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackray, Sharad Pawar said, "Today, a new NCP legislative party leader will be elected here (Mumbai) at 4 pm."

"Action against Ajit Pawar will be taken as per the procedure," Sarad Pawar also said.

Earlier in the day, reacting to the developments, Sharad Pawar said it was Ajit's personal decision to join hands with BJP and not of the NCP's.

"Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his," he tweeted.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.&nbsp;

On Friday, Sharad Pawar had claimed that there was a consensus on Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as chief minister of the alliance government.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position. In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position. In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. While BJP's Devendra Fadnavis became the Chief Minister and took oath for the second consecutive term. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai along with Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackray, Sharad Pawar said, "Today, a new NCP legislative party leader will be elected here (Mumbai) at 4 pm." "Action against Ajit Pawar will be taken as per the procedure," Sarad Pawar also said. Earlier in the day, reacting to the developments, Sharad Pawar said it was Ajit's personal decision to join hands with BJP and not of the NCP's. "Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his," he tweeted. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. On Friday, Sharad Pawar had claimed that there was a consensus on Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as chief minister of the alliance government. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra: NCP to name new legislative leader after it sacked Ajit Pawar

Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon.&nbsp;

Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit </a>as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday. The development comes as a shock to NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena who were close to finalise&nbsp;the power-sharing deal to form government in the state.&nbsp;

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Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister again,NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy CM,oath was administered by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan <a href="https://t.co/KrejSTXTBd">pic.twitter.com/KrejSTXTBd</a>
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On Saturday morning, the President's rule in Maharahstra was revoked.

Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut said Ajit has been blackmailed and whosoever hatched this act will be exposed in Sena's mouthpiece Saamna newspaper soon. "Of the eight MLAs who had gone with Ajit Pawar, five of them returned. They were lied to, put in a car, and sort of kidnapped," Raut claimed.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: We are in touch with Dhananjay Munde and there is a possibility of even Ajit Pawar coming back. Ajit has been blackmailed, it will be exposed who is behind this, in Saamna newspaper soon. <a href="https://t.co/vESFauyjWR">https://t.co/vESFauyjWR</a> <a href="https://t.co/DIomJ1niK2">pic.twitter.com/DIomJ1niK2</a>
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Raut also dared BJP to prove a majority in the Legislative Assembly.&nbsp;

Earlier, NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-do-not-support-or-endorse-ajit-pawars-decision-to-support-bjp-sharad-pawar-on-ajit-decision-to-support-bjp-263991">Sharad Pawar </a>said that Ajit's decision to support BJP was "against the party line" and all NCP MLAs who supported Ajit will be disqualified. &nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray issued a stern warning to BJP that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Sena in a joint press conference with Sharad.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reacting on the latest development in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that all three parties: Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP are united and will defeat BJP in the floor test.

On Sunday, NCP chief said that Uddhav will lead the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

From a few weeks, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were working on a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

BJP, Shiv Sena fought election together but had a fallout over the post of chief minister. The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra were declared on October 24 and BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. &nbsp;Support&nbsp;of at least 145 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra. 
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Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon. Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday.

Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon. Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday. The development comes as a shock to NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena who were close to finalise the power-sharing deal to form government in the state. Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister again,NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy CM,oath was administered by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan pic.twitter.com/KrejSTXTBd — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × On Saturday morning, the President's rule in Maharahstra was revoked. Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut said Ajit has been blackmailed and whosoever hatched this act will be exposed in Sena's mouthpiece Saamna newspaper soon. "Of the eight MLAs who had gone with Ajit Pawar, five of them returned. They were lied to, put in a car, and sort of kidnapped," Raut claimed. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: We are in touch with Dhananjay Munde and there is a possibility of even Ajit Pawar coming back. Ajit has been blackmailed, it will be exposed who is behind this, in Saamna newspaper soon. https://t.co/vESFauyjWR pic.twitter.com/DIomJ1niK2 — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × Raut also dared BJP to prove a majority in the Legislative Assembly. Earlier, NCP chief Sharad Pawar said that Ajit's decision to support BJP was "against the party line" and all NCP MLAs who supported Ajit will be disqualified. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray issued a stern warning to BJP that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Sena in a joint press conference with Sharad. Reacting on the latest development in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that all three parties: Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP are united and will defeat BJP in the floor test. On Sunday, NCP chief said that Uddhav will lead the government in Maharashtra. From a few weeks, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were working on a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in Maharashtra. BJP, Shiv Sena fought election together but had a fallout over the post of chief minister. The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra were declared on October 24 and BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. Support of at least 145 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra.

Ajit Pawar was blackmailed, MLAs kidnapped: Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines".

He also cautioned party MLAs backing Ajit Pawar that they may lose their membership under the anti-defection law. Pawar, who addressed a joint press conference with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of BJP-NCP government.

"Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline," he said.

The press conference came hours after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were sworn in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in a dramatic early morning development.

The President's Rule in the state was revoked hours earlier. Pawar said NCP MLAs who have landed support to BJP or were thinking of doing so in the future will lose their membership under "anti-defection" law.

"All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high. Even the voters of their respective constituency will also be angry with them," he said.

NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane, who was present at the presser, said he went to Raj Bhavan but was not aware that oath-taking ceremony was to take place.

"Ajit Pawar had called me to discuss something and from there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan. Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete. I rushed to Pawar Sahab and told him that I am with him," he said.

Pawar said Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP had come together to form a government. "We have the numbers to form the government. Several independent are also with us," Pawar added.

NCP won 54 seats while Shiv Sena got 56 and Congress 44. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on a rotating Chief Minister.&nbsp; 
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Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines".

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines". He also cautioned party MLAs backing Ajit Pawar that they may lose their membership under the anti-defection law. Pawar, who addressed a joint press conference with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of BJP-NCP government. "Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline," he said. The press conference came hours after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were sworn in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in a dramatic early morning development. The President's Rule in the state was revoked hours earlier. Pawar said NCP MLAs who have landed support to BJP or were thinking of doing so in the future will lose their membership under "anti-defection" law. "All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high. Even the voters of their respective constituency will also be angry with them," he said. NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane, who was present at the presser, said he went to Raj Bhavan but was not aware that oath-taking ceremony was to take place. "Ajit Pawar had called me to discuss something and from there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan. Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete. I rushed to Pawar Sahab and told him that I am with him," he said. Pawar said Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP had come together to form a government. "We have the numbers to form the government. Several independent are also with us," Pawar added. NCP won 54 seats while Shiv Sena got 56 and Congress 44. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on a rotating Chief Minister.

Ajit's decision to support BJP 'against the party line': Sharad Pawar

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena.

Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.&nbsp;

''Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP leaders came together to form the government. We had the numbers. We had our official numbers- 44, 56 and 54 MLAs with us who had supported the government. Several independent were also with us and we had numbers around 170,'' Pawar added.

Reminding his party MLAs of anti-defection law, Pawar said there was a possibility of MLAs losing their assembly membership.&nbsp;

Three MLAs who were present during the oath-taking ceremony said were unknowingly taken to the oath ceremony pledged their support to NCP.

Three MLAs who were among the 10-11 MLAs present during the oath-taking ceremony in the Raj Bhavan were present during the press conference which was addressed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders.&nbsp;

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena. Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena. Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line. ''Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP leaders came together to form the government. We had the numbers. We had our official numbers- 44, 56 and 54 MLAs with us who had supported the government. Several independent were also with us and we had numbers around 170,'' Pawar added. Reminding his party MLAs of anti-defection law, Pawar said there was a possibility of MLAs losing their assembly membership. Three MLAs who were present during the oath-taking ceremony said were unknowingly taken to the oath ceremony pledged their support to NCP. Three MLAs who were among the 10-11 MLAs present during the oath-taking ceremony in the Raj Bhavan were present during the press conference which was addressed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders.

Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray

Pakistan on Saturday violated ceasefire in the Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.

At&nbsp;about 11:30 AM today, Pakistan initiated the unprovoked firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in the Sunderbani sector.

The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly.

Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan had violated ceasefire in the Krishna Ghati of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Saturday violated ceasefire in the Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. At about 11:30 AM today, Pakistan initiated the unprovoked firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in the Sunderbani sector.

Pakistan on Saturday violated ceasefire in the Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. At about 11:30 AM today, Pakistan initiated the unprovoked firing of small arms and shelling with mortars in the Sunderbani sector. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly. Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan had violated ceasefire in the Krishna Ghati of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.

J&K: Pakistan violates ceasefire in Sunderban sector

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday commended the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) for timely sanctioning the pensions of veterans.

"The acceptance and dispersal of the pension is a complex process. There might be mistakes but Defence Accounts Department always makes sure that veterans do not get tension and that their pensions are sanctioned timely," Singh said at 'Raksha Pension Adalat'&nbsp;event here.

The Defence Accounts Department headed by Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) performs the duties of auditing of all charges pertaining to the Armed Forces, including bills for supplies, services rendered, construction works, pay and pensions.

Singh said that call centres have been set to resolve the issues pertaining to pension.

He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government cares immensely about the veterans, "This is the reason why the government implemented the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme within months of coming to power in 2014."&nbsp;

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday commended the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) for timely sanctioning the pensions of veterans. "The acceptance and dispersal of the pension is a complex process.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday commended the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) for timely sanctioning the pensions of veterans. "The acceptance and dispersal of the pension is a complex process. There might be mistakes but Defence Accounts Department always makes sure that veterans do not get tension and that their pensions are sanctioned timely," Singh said at 'Raksha Pension Adalat' event here. The Defence Accounts Department headed by Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) performs the duties of auditing of all charges pertaining to the Armed Forces, including bills for supplies, services rendered, construction works, pay and pensions. Singh said that call centres have been set to resolve the issues pertaining to pension. He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government cares immensely about the veterans, "This is the reason why the government implemented the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme within months of coming to power in 2014."

Rajnath Singh commends Defence Accounts Department for sanctioning pensions timely

A Naxal was killed in an encounter with District Reserve Guard (DRG ) here near Muler village.

Police have recovered a country-made pistol, IED remote, explosive and wireless set.

The body has been recovered but the identity of the deceased has not yet been established.

Further, details are awaited&nbsp;

A Naxal was killed in an encounter with District Reserve Guard (DRG ) here near Muler village. Police have recovered a country-made pistol, IED remote, explosive and wireless set.

A Naxal was killed in an encounter with District Reserve Guard (DRG ) here near Muler village. Police have recovered a country-made pistol, IED remote, explosive and wireless set. The body has been recovered but the identity of the deceased has not yet been established. Further, details are awaited

Chhattisgarh: Naxal killed in encounter with police in Sukma

After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-ncp-to-name-new-legislative-leader-after-it-sacked-ajit-pawar-264033"> NCP Ajit Pawar</a> said that it's more suitable for two parties (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">BJP-NCP</a>) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it.

"The mandate was in clear favour to none and it was not possible for any party to form the government alone. Two-three parties have to come together to form the government however, eventually, two parties coming together and forming a government is more suitable," said Pawar.

In what can be termed as a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp; 
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After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, NCP Ajit Pawar said that it's more suitable for two parties (BJP-NCP) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it.

After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, NCP Ajit Pawar said that it's more suitable for two parties (BJP-NCP) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it. "The mandate was in clear favour to none and it was not possible for any party to form the government alone. Two-three parties have to come together to form the government however, eventually, two parties coming together and forming a government is more suitable," said Pawar. In what can be termed as a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Two parties coming together to form government is more suitable: Ajit Pawar

Lok Sabha speaker, OM Birla on Friday all MPs to take a pledge against&nbsp;single-use plastic as he said that "if the MPs of India take this resolution then the message will be spread among 130 crore people of our country."

Speaking in the lower house of the Parliament, OM Birla said, "This House represents 130 crore people and I think the entire House will agree with the fact that single-use plastic should be stopped. If the MPs of India take this resolution then the message will be spread among 130 crore people of our country."

Extending his support to the idea, environment minister Prakash Javadekar lauded the proposal.&nbsp;

The latest appeal by Lok Sabha Speaker comes a day after, Kerala Government decided to ban the manufacturing, sale and storage of single-use plastic products from January 1, 2020.

As per the decision, plastic manufacturers, wholesalers and small sellers who violate the law can be fined Rs 10,000 for the first time and Rs 25,000 for violating the law again.

Concerns are growing worldwide about plastic pollution, with a particular focus on the oceans, where nearly 50 per cent of single-use plastic products end up, killing marine life and entering the human food chain, studies show.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech had called on countrymen to shun single-use plastic such as cups, straws, plastic bags.

A pan India ban was also proposed but the plans have been delayed for next year after considering its impact on industries who are heavily dependent on single-use plastic.

The European Union plans to ban single-use plastic items such as straws, forks, knives and cotton buds by 2021.

China's commercial hub of Shanghai is gradually reining in use of single-use plastics in catering, and its island province of Hainan has already vowed to completely eliminate single-use plastic by 2025.

Lok Sabha speaker, OM Birla on Friday all MPs to take a pledge against single-use plastic as he said that "if the MPs of India take this resolution then the message will be spread among 130 crore people of our country.

Lok Sabha speaker, OM Birla on Friday all MPs to take a pledge against single-use plastic as he said that "if the MPs of India take this resolution then the message will be spread among 130 crore people of our country." Speaking in the lower house of the Parliament, OM Birla said, "This House represents 130 crore people and I think the entire House will agree with the fact that single-use plastic should be stopped. If the MPs of India take this resolution then the message will be spread among 130 crore people of our country." Extending his support to the idea, environment minister Prakash Javadekar lauded the proposal. The latest appeal by Lok Sabha Speaker comes a day after, Kerala Government decided to ban the manufacturing, sale and storage of single-use plastic products from January 1, 2020. As per the decision, plastic manufacturers, wholesalers and small sellers who violate the law can be fined Rs 10,000 for the first time and Rs 25,000 for violating the law again. Concerns are growing worldwide about plastic pollution, with a particular focus on the oceans, where nearly 50 per cent of single-use plastic products end up, killing marine life and entering the human food chain, studies show. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech had called on countrymen to shun single-use plastic such as cups, straws, plastic bags. A pan India ban was also proposed but the plans have been delayed for next year after considering its impact on industries who are heavily dependent on single-use plastic. The European Union plans to ban single-use plastic items such as straws, forks, knives and cotton buds by 2021. China's commercial hub of Shanghai is gradually reining in use of single-use plastics in catering, and its island province of Hainan has already vowed to completely eliminate single-use plastic by 2025.

In bid to encourage people, Lok Sabha Speaker asks all MPs to shun single-use plastic

As the Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena are slated to hold final deliberations over government formation today, Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the chief minister will be from his party and will remain incumbent for the full term of the alliance government.

"Chief Minister will be of Shiv Sena and Sena's chief minister will be there for full 5 years," said Sanjay Raut, addressing a press conference here on Friday.

"The people of Maharashtra and Shiv Sainik want Uddhav Thackeray to be the chief minister," said Raut.

This comes at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena are holding hectic deliberations and talks and are inching closer towards government formation in Maharashtra.

Smaller allies of NCP-Congress will hold meetings with the leaders of the alliance today to work out final modalities and their role in the 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) government in the state. The meeting which will take place at 12 pm, comes hours ahead of the NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena meeting scheduled at 4 pm today.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

As the Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena are slated to hold final deliberations over government formation today, Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the chief minister will be from his party and will remain incumbent for the full term of the alliance government.

As the Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena are slated to hold final deliberations over government formation today, Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the chief minister will be from his party and will remain incumbent for the full term of the alliance government. "Chief Minister will be of Shiv Sena and Sena's chief minister will be there for full 5 years," said Sanjay Raut, addressing a press conference here on Friday. "The people of Maharashtra and Shiv Sainik want Uddhav Thackeray to be the chief minister," said Raut. This comes at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena are holding hectic deliberations and talks and are inching closer towards government formation in Maharashtra. Smaller allies of NCP-Congress will hold meetings with the leaders of the alliance today to work out final modalities and their role in the 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) government in the state. The meeting which will take place at 12 pm, comes hours ahead of the NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena meeting scheduled at 4 pm today. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena's chief minister will rule for 5-years: Sanjay Raut

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has justified its decision of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delegation-of-jnu-students-reaches-ministry-of-human-resources-development-263357"> revising hostel fee</a> by saying that it has a shortage of more than Rs 45 crore due to huge electricity and water charges and salary of contractual staff.

"The University has a deficit of more than Rs 45 crore because of huge electricity and water charges and salary of contractual staff," the JNU on Thursday said in a statement, adding that there is a "misinformation" campaign being run in the name of hostel fee hike.

"In reality, service charges are being levied, which have been zero so far. For the sustainability of the university budget which has run into a huge deficit, it is necessary to levy the service charges in the hostel," the university said.

It claimed that propaganda is being run that a large number of poor students will be adversely affected by the revised hostel charges.

The JNU is unable to pay its 450 contractual employees as the University Grants Commission (UGC) no longer allows payment of salaries of such employees of hostels from the salary head of the budget.

"The UGC has given clear instructions to JNU that all shortfalls in the non-salary expenditures should be met by using the internal receipts generated by the University. Thus, there is no alternative for the IHA than to collect service charges from the students," it said.

As per the preliminary estimates, the revised hostel charges for each general student is approximately Rs 4,500 per month including Rs 2,300 is for food charges per month.

"The below poverty line (BPL) category students have to pay only 50 per cent of the remaining amount of Rs 2,200. Therefore, a BPL category student has to pay approximately Rs 3,400 per month," it said.

Out of 6,000 students residing in the JNU hostel, 5,371 students receive financial aid in the form of fellowships and scholarships.

Dismissing reports that the revised hostel charges in the JNU are more than similar charges in other Central Universities, the institute said, "It needs to be underlined that the JNU does not charge developmental fees, unlike other universities. Moreover, the admission fee in the JNU has been minimal for decades and no revision has taken place for more than four decades."

Justifying the revised hostel fee by its administration, the varsity said, "While the JNU charges admission fee Rs 300 per annum, the Central University of Hyderabad charges around Rs 10,000 per annum."

The students of the JNU have been protesting for the past three weeks against hostel fee hike, a dress code among others.

The university had hiked the double room rent from Rs 10 to Rs 300 per month, single room from Rs 20 to Rs 600 per month and increased one-time refundable mess security deposit from Rs 5,500 to Rs 12,000.

The fee was, however, partially rolled back. Now, the room rent for single-seater rooms will be kept to Rs 600 per month, while it will be Rs 300 for those students who are from the BPL category.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has justified its decision of revising hostel fee by saying that it has a shortage of more than Rs 45 crore due to huge electricity and water charges and salary of contractual staff.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has justified its decision of revising hostel fee by saying that it has a shortage of more than Rs 45 crore due to huge electricity and water charges and salary of contractual staff. "The University has a deficit of more than Rs 45 crore because of huge electricity and water charges and salary of contractual staff," the JNU on Thursday said in a statement, adding that there is a "misinformation" campaign being run in the name of hostel fee hike. "In reality, service charges are being levied, which have been zero so far. For the sustainability of the university budget which has run into a huge deficit, it is necessary to levy the service charges in the hostel," the university said. It claimed that propaganda is being run that a large number of poor students will be adversely affected by the revised hostel charges. The JNU is unable to pay its 450 contractual employees as the University Grants Commission (UGC) no longer allows payment of salaries of such employees of hostels from the salary head of the budget. "The UGC has given clear instructions to JNU that all shortfalls in the non-salary expenditures should be met by using the internal receipts generated by the University. Thus, there is no alternative for the IHA than to collect service charges from the students," it said. As per the preliminary estimates, the revised hostel charges for each general student is approximately Rs 4,500 per month including Rs 2,300 is for food charges per month. "The below poverty line (BPL) category students have to pay only 50 per cent of the remaining amount of Rs 2,200. Therefore, a BPL category student has to pay approximately Rs 3,400 per month," it said. Out of 6,000 students residing in the JNU hostel, 5,371 students receive financial aid in the form of fellowships and scholarships. Dismissing reports that the revised hostel charges in the JNU are more than similar charges in other Central Universities, the institute said, "It needs to be underlined that the JNU does not charge developmental fees, unlike other universities. Moreover, the admission fee in the JNU has been minimal for decades and no revision has taken place for more than four decades." Justifying the revised hostel fee by its administration, the varsity said, "While the JNU charges admission fee Rs 300 per annum, the Central University of Hyderabad charges around Rs 10,000 per annum." The students of the JNU have been protesting for the past three weeks against hostel fee hike, a dress code among others. The university had hiked the double room rent from Rs 10 to Rs 300 per month, single room from Rs 20 to Rs 600 per month and increased one-time refundable mess security deposit from Rs 5,500 to Rs 12,000. The fee was, however, partially rolled back. Now, the room rent for single-seater rooms will be kept to Rs 600 per month, while it will be Rs 300 for those students who are from the BPL category.

University facing deficit of over Rs 45 crore, necessary to levy service charges in hostel: JNU justifies fee hike

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem.

Replying to debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, Javadekar said that a national knowledge network has been created and scientists meet daily to find new ways to deal with the problem of pollution.

The minister said that India will provide leadership on climate change and will be able to deal with the problem of pollution soon.

He said every individual has to make a contribution to combating pollution as part of the people`s movement.

"The government will also take everyone along. I have confidence that if it took 15 years to tackle the problem of pollution in Beijing, we will do it in lesser time and do it collectively," he said.

He said that there is only one earth and resources are depleting. Pointing to difference between climate change and air pollution, Javadekar said there has been excessive emission of carbon dioxide during the industralisation of the western world and this gas remains in the atmosphere for a very long time and impedes the flow of heat generated by the sun.

"This is leading to a rise in temperature of the earth," he said. Javadekar said that in contrast, pollutants which cause air pollution disappear in a short time.

He said India is not responsible for climate change and its carbon emissions are far less than the developed world.

"We are not a cause of the problem, but ultimately we are suffering and everybody is suffering. So, as a responsible country, India has decided to become a part of the solution," he said.

The minister said that India was committed to increasing the share of renewable power in its energy mix to 40 per cent and has already scaled up the production target from 1,75,000 MW of renewable energy to 4,50,000 MW.

He said that India will also reduce its emission intensity by 35 per cent and steps have been taken in this direction. Stressing on afforestation, he said trees absorb carbon and produce wood.

"In the coming 10 years, we will create forests on a large scale. We have the highest target in the world. The green cover has increased by 13,000 square kilometres in the last four years," he said.

The minister said that India has also announced that it will make 26 million hectare barren land green in the next 10 years. Javadekar said he will visit Spain next month for CoP 25 and India`s position is straight.

"India is doing what it had said and every country has to fulfill its promise made in the Paris Climate Agreement. The developing world should get finance, 100 billion dollars that were committed. Technology should be given at an affordable cost. If technology is not given, the change will not happen soon," he said.

Stressing on sustainable development, he cited the instance of Delhi metro and said both that "development and environment protection have to go hand-in-hand."

Javadekar said that five times more trees have been planted than the trees cut for the construction of the metro. The minister said that the government has prepared the National Clean Air programme and released funds according to the needs of the cities to reduce the pollution level.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Air Quality Index in 2015 and devices for measuring air quality have been installed at 730 places in 344 cities.

Javadekar said that poor air quality of Delhi was also related to its geography and noted that Indo-Gangetic plain has the highest level of pollution.

"Because there is moisture from Ganga, from the Himalayas, there are cold winds or slow winds. Delhi is like a bowl. If the wind speed is 20 km, the air will get clean but if it is less than 20 km, the air stays there and that is the reason for more pollution," he said.

Reading from the report of a scientist, he said, "Meteorology plays a dominant role in Delhi`s air quality and also other places` air quality. Ventilation Index defined as a product of wind speed and mixing height is a significant factor affecting air quality."

"Winters are dominated by cold dry air and ground-based inversions with low wind conditions which make the air stagnant and creates an unfavourable condition for dispersion," he said.

He said that air pollution is caused by industry, vehicles, dust and bio-mass and listed the steps taken by the government to address each aspect including the closure of coal-based power plant in the capital, expansion of metro network and construction of peripheral highways.

He urged the people to create their own oxygen bank by planting seven trees. Javadekar said that they had started a school nursery programme and the child will take a sapling home when results are declared.

The minister said higher awareness had led to fewer bursting of crackers during Diwali. He also laid stress on using electric-vehicles.

The minister said that the Indian tradition teaches to live with nature and cited examples of clothes being dried in sun and not through an electric dryer and clothes of children being passed from generation to generation.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem. Replying to debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, Javadekar said that a national knowledge network has been created and scientists meet daily to find new ways to deal with the problem of pollution. The minister said that India will provide leadership on climate change and will be able to deal with the problem of pollution soon. He said every individual has to make a contribution to combating pollution as part of the people`s movement. "The government will also take everyone along. I have confidence that if it took 15 years to tackle the problem of pollution in Beijing, we will do it in lesser time and do it collectively," he said. He said that there is only one earth and resources are depleting. Pointing to difference between climate change and air pollution, Javadekar said there has been excessive emission of carbon dioxide during the industralisation of the western world and this gas remains in the atmosphere for a very long time and impedes the flow of heat generated by the sun. "This is leading to a rise in temperature of the earth," he said. Javadekar said that in contrast, pollutants which cause air pollution disappear in a short time. He said India is not responsible for climate change and its carbon emissions are far less than the developed world. "We are not a cause of the problem, but ultimately we are suffering and everybody is suffering. So, as a responsible country, India has decided to become a part of the solution," he said. The minister said that India was committed to increasing the share of renewable power in its energy mix to 40 per cent and has already scaled up the production target from 1,75,000 MW of renewable energy to 4,50,000 MW. He said that India will also reduce its emission intensity by 35 per cent and steps have been taken in this direction. Stressing on afforestation, he said trees absorb carbon and produce wood. "In the coming 10 years, we will create forests on a large scale. We have the highest target in the world. The green cover has increased by 13,000 square kilometres in the last four years," he said. The minister said that India has also announced that it will make 26 million hectare barren land green in the next 10 years. Javadekar said he will visit Spain next month for CoP 25 and India`s position is straight. "India is doing what it had said and every country has to fulfill its promise made in the Paris Climate Agreement. The developing world should get finance, 100 billion dollars that were committed. Technology should be given at an affordable cost. If technology is not given, the change will not happen soon," he said. Stressing on sustainable development, he cited the instance of Delhi metro and said both that "development and environment protection have to go hand-in-hand." Javadekar said that five times more trees have been planted than the trees cut for the construction of the metro. The minister said that the government has prepared the National Clean Air programme and released funds according to the needs of the cities to reduce the pollution level. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Air Quality Index in 2015 and devices for measuring air quality have been installed at 730 places in 344 cities. Javadekar said that poor air quality of Delhi was also related to its geography and noted that Indo-Gangetic plain has the highest level of pollution. "Because there is moisture from Ganga, from the Himalayas, there are cold winds or slow winds. Delhi is like a bowl. If the wind speed is 20 km, the air will get clean but if it is less than 20 km, the air stays there and that is the reason for more pollution," he said. Reading from the report of a scientist, he said, "Meteorology plays a dominant role in Delhi`s air quality and also other places` air quality. Ventilation Index defined as a product of wind speed and mixing height is a significant factor affecting air quality." "Winters are dominated by cold dry air and ground-based inversions with low wind conditions which make the air stagnant and creates an unfavourable condition for dispersion," he said. He said that air pollution is caused by industry, vehicles, dust and bio-mass and listed the steps taken by the government to address each aspect including the closure of coal-based power plant in the capital, expansion of metro network and construction of peripheral highways. He urged the people to create their own oxygen bank by planting seven trees. Javadekar said that they had started a school nursery programme and the child will take a sapling home when results are declared. The minister said higher awareness had led to fewer bursting of crackers during Diwali. He also laid stress on using electric-vehicles. The minister said that the Indian tradition teaches to live with nature and cited examples of clothes being dried in sun and not through an electric dryer and clothes of children being passed from generation to generation.

Will take lesser time than Beijing: Javadekar on tackling Delhi's air pollution

Bangladesh Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/road-in-bangladeshi-city-to-be-named-after-prime-minister-sheikh-hasina-257162">Sheikh Hasina </a>will be in India on Friday&nbsp;to watch the first day of the day/night&nbsp;Test between India and Bangladesh that will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

On the sidelines of 'pink-ball' Test&nbsp;match, the Bangladesh premier will also hold one-to-one "courtesy meeting" with state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. However, the focus of the discussion has not be disclosed yet.

"Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be coming to the city to watch the day and night India-Bangladesh cricket Test match. Apart from being present at the grounds during the inauguration and felicitation programme, we (Hasina and herself) will also have a one-on-one courtesy meeting at 6pm," Banerjee told reporters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to PM Hasina last month to attend the historic day/night Test match, which will be played with a pink ball.

On Friday, a special flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the Bangladesh Prime Minister and her entourage will depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka at 10 am (local time). The plane will land at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata at 10:25 am.

After the ceremonial programs at the airport, the prime minister will go to Hotel Taj Bengal Kolkata where she will be staying during this short visit.

Later, the premier along with the&nbsp;Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm.

After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel.

After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium.

Hasina will then leave for Dhaka at 10 pm.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be in India on Friday to watch the first day of the day/night Test between India and Bangladesh that will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be in India on Friday to watch the first day of the day/night Test between India and Bangladesh that will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. On the sidelines of 'pink-ball' Test match, the Bangladesh premier will also hold one-to-one "courtesy meeting" with state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. However, the focus of the discussion has not be disclosed yet. "Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be coming to the city to watch the day and night India-Bangladesh cricket Test match. Apart from being present at the grounds during the inauguration and felicitation programme, we (Hasina and herself) will also have a one-on-one courtesy meeting at 6pm," Banerjee told reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to PM Hasina last month to attend the historic day/night Test match, which will be played with a pink ball. On Friday, a special flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the Bangladesh Prime Minister and her entourage will depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka at 10 am (local time). The plane will land at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata at 10:25 am. After the ceremonial programs at the airport, the prime minister will go to Hotel Taj Bengal Kolkata where she will be staying during this short visit. Later, the premier along with the Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm. After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel. After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium. Hasina will then leave for Dhaka at 10 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

In 'cricket diplomacy', Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, CM Mamta Banerjee to meet on sidelines of 'pink ball' Test in Kolkata

Parts of Kashmir valley received fresh snowfall on Friday, bringing joy on the faces of common people who are hopeful of tourism revival in the newly created Union Territory.&nbsp;

Since the abrogation of special status, the flow of tourists in Jammu and Kashmir has been considerably low due to the security situation and advisory barring tourists from visiting the valley. The advisory, however, was later revoked.&nbsp;

Since morning, mountains surrounding Kashmir were covered in a white blanket of snow. The weather department had predicted moderate to heavy snowfall in the mountainous areas of Kashmir and parts of Ladakh.&nbsp;

In Gulmarg, tourists were seen enjoying the first snowfall. This also marks the beginning of the winter tourism season when people from India and across the globe start visiting.&nbsp;

"People are very nice here. I think more people should come to visit Kashmir and this winter is very exciting for me. I think there should be internet so that more people come here," said Zilvia, a tourist from Indonesia.&nbsp;

Tourists from across the globe visit the valley to enjoy skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding. Gulmarg offers some of the best slopes in south Asia for such activities. Earlier, the Home Ministry in its reply to Lok Sabha had said that more than 34 lakh tourists had visited Jammu and Kashmir during the last six months, including 12,934 tourists from abroad.&nbsp;

"I feel safe here and I feel this is the real paradise on Earth. Some of us are witnessing snowfall for the first time. We are more than excited to see the valley," said Lizme, another tourist from Indonesia.&nbsp;

Surrounded by the western Himalayas, Gulmarg is dotted with tourists from across the globe during this time of the year. The place has been called the "heartland of winter sports" in India by CNN. The government of India has already invested $420,000 to transform Gulmarg into a world-class ski destination. &nbsp;

"We are pleased to see these surroundings. I wish to stay here longer. My basic purpose of the visit was to witness the snowfall and now that is complete," said Sudhir Kumar, a resident of Patna, Bihar.&nbsp;

Slopes at Gulmarg are made for experienced as well as those who are new to the sport of skiing. Around 40 thousand tourists have already visited this destination, mainly for skiing and snowboarding. Ranked as Asia's seventh best ski destination, Gulmarg attracts ski lovers from countries like Russia, Australia, and New Zealand among others.

Parts of Kashmir valley received fresh snowfall on Friday, bringing joy on the faces of common people who are hopeful of tourism revival in the newly created Union Territory.

Parts of Kashmir valley received fresh snowfall on Friday, bringing joy on the faces of common people who are hopeful of tourism revival in the newly created Union Territory. Since the abrogation of special status, the flow of tourists in Jammu and Kashmir has been considerably low due to the security situation and advisory barring tourists from visiting the valley. The advisory, however, was later revoked. Since morning, mountains surrounding Kashmir were covered in a white blanket of snow. The weather department had predicted moderate to heavy snowfall in the mountainous areas of Kashmir and parts of Ladakh. In Gulmarg, tourists were seen enjoying the first snowfall. This also marks the beginning of the winter tourism season when people from India and across the globe start visiting. "People are very nice here. I think more people should come to visit Kashmir and this winter is very exciting for me. I think there should be internet so that more people come here," said Zilvia, a tourist from Indonesia. Tourists from across the globe visit the valley to enjoy skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding. Gulmarg offers some of the best slopes in south Asia for such activities. Earlier, the Home Ministry in its reply to Lok Sabha had said that more than 34 lakh tourists had visited Jammu and Kashmir during the last six months, including 12,934 tourists from abroad. "I feel safe here and I feel this is the real paradise on Earth. Some of us are witnessing snowfall for the first time. We are more than excited to see the valley," said Lizme, another tourist from Indonesia. Surrounded by the western Himalayas, Gulmarg is dotted with tourists from across the globe during this time of the year. The place has been called the "heartland of winter sports" in India by CNN. The government of India has already invested $420,000 to transform Gulmarg into a world-class ski destination. "We are pleased to see these surroundings. I wish to stay here longer. My basic purpose of the visit was to witness the snowfall and now that is complete," said Sudhir Kumar, a resident of Patna, Bihar. Slopes at Gulmarg are made for experienced as well as those who are new to the sport of skiing. Around 40 thousand tourists have already visited this destination, mainly for skiing and snowboarding. Ranked as Asia's seventh best ski destination, Gulmarg attracts ski lovers from countries like Russia, Australia, and New Zealand among others.

With fresh snowfall, tourists have a fun day in Kashmir

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-an-important-neighbour-i-get-support-and-love-here-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-263949">Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina</a> on Friday said that her country was grateful to India for its role in the Liberation War of 1971.

“India provided shelter to more than one crore people of Bangladesh during the Liberation War. We will always remain grateful for their role during the war. We can never forget it. I want the cordial relations between India and Bangladesh to flourish further,” said Hasina after a 45-minute long meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the backdrop of her visit to Kolkata to witness the first-ever pink ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee stressed on the fact that it was a courtesy visit, however, several issues relating to the bilateral ties between the two nations were discussed.

“We had a very cordial meeting with the Bangladesh Prime Minister. India and Bangladesh share a very historically cordial relation. We discussed issues between the two nations and how bilateral ties between the two nations can be strengthened. I have invited her to visit here again,” said Banerjee after her meeting with PM Hasina.

Hasina arrived around 11 am today in Kolkata and was given a grand welcome at the Eden Gardens where the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-ban-2nd-test-hosts-finish-day-1-on-strong-note-after-pace-trio-skittles-bangladesh-cheaply-263946">historic pink-ball Test match</a> is being played between India and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Hasina and Chief Minister Banerjee rang the bell together ushering the beginning of the pink ball match in Kolkata.

After viewing the first session of the Test match, Prime Minister Hasina retired to her city hotel. Around 6 pm she held a meeting with CM Banerjee. After the meeting, both the leaders reached the Eden Gardens again to attend a cultural event organised by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).

Around 10 pm, PM Hasina boarded the flight to Dhaka along with her entourage. 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday said that her country was grateful to India for its role in the Liberation War of 1971. “India provided shelter to more than one crore people of Bangladesh during the Liberation War.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday said that her country was grateful to India for its role in the Liberation War of 1971. “India provided shelter to more than one crore people of Bangladesh during the Liberation War. We will always remain grateful for their role during the war. We can never forget it. I want the cordial relations between India and Bangladesh to flourish further,” said Hasina after a 45-minute long meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the backdrop of her visit to Kolkata to witness the first-ever pink ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee stressed on the fact that it was a courtesy visit, however, several issues relating to the bilateral ties between the two nations were discussed. “We had a very cordial meeting with the Bangladesh Prime Minister. India and Bangladesh share a very historically cordial relation. We discussed issues between the two nations and how bilateral ties between the two nations can be strengthened. I have invited her to visit here again,” said Banerjee after her meeting with PM Hasina. Hasina arrived around 11 am today in Kolkata and was given a grand welcome at the Eden Gardens where the historic pink-ball Test match is being played between India and Bangladesh. Prime Minister Hasina and Chief Minister Banerjee rang the bell together ushering the beginning of the pink ball match in Kolkata. After viewing the first session of the Test match, Prime Minister Hasina retired to her city hotel. Around 6 pm she held a meeting with CM Banerjee. After the meeting, both the leaders reached the Eden Gardens again to attend a cultural event organised by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Around 10 pm, PM Hasina boarded the flight to Dhaka along with her entourage.

Grateful to India for its role in Liberation War: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday called India "an important neighbour" and said that she came to Kolkata on BCCI chief and former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly's invitation to witness the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-ban-2nd-test-hosts-finish-day-1-on-strong-note-after-pace-trio-skittles-bangladesh-cheaply-263946">first-ever pink ball Test match</a> between the two nations.

"I came here on the invitation of Sourav Ganguly. It's the first-ever pink-ball Test match between India and Bangladesh, so I came to witness the occasion," Hasina said.

The Bangladeshi Prime Minister thanked the Indian audience and said that she gets a lot of "support and love" here.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina:I came here on invitation of Sourav Ganguly. It's the first ever pink-ball Test b/w India &amp;Bangladesh,so I came to witness the occasion.I'd like to thank the Indian audience.I get a lot of support&amp;love here. India is important neighbour of Bangladesh. <a href="https://t.co/MD5VeyFfPU">pic.twitter.com/MD5VeyFfPU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197883165043376128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After attending the cricket match, Hasina held a meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;

PM Hasina arrived in Kolkata earlier in the day and inaugurated the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh along with West Bengal CM.

Hasina was received by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport today.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday called India "an important neighbour" and said that she came to Kolkata on BCCI chief and former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly's invitation to witness the first-ever pink ball Test match between the two nations.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday called India "an important neighbour" and said that she came to Kolkata on BCCI chief and former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly's invitation to witness the first-ever pink ball Test match between the two nations. "I came here on the invitation of Sourav Ganguly. It's the first-ever pink-ball Test match between India and Bangladesh, so I came to witness the occasion," Hasina said. The Bangladeshi Prime Minister thanked the Indian audience and said that she gets a lot of "support and love" here. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina:I came here on invitation of Sourav Ganguly. It's the first ever pink-ball Test b/w India &Bangladesh,so I came to witness the occasion.I'd like to thank the Indian audience.I get a lot of support&love here. India is important neighbour of Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/MD5VeyFfPU — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × After attending the cricket match, Hasina held a meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. PM Hasina arrived in Kolkata earlier in the day and inaugurated the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh along with West Bengal CM. Hasina was received by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport today.

India is an important neighbour, I get support and love here: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina 

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday.

The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government.&nbsp;

"We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister," Pawar stated.

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become the chief minister. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/jh4pGgeTHz">pic.twitter.com/jh4pGgeTHz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197908959027318787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The NCP, the Congress and the Sena, earlier in the evening, held a high-octane meeting to deliberate the government forming formula in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said.&nbsp;

"All three parties had positive discussions about government formation. We've reached a consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow. Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record, I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things, we'll speak on them," former Maharashtra CM and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said.

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NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/UTV9Lrk2c0">pic.twitter.com/UTV9Lrk2c0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197877361405878272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that the meeting between the three parties was "inconclusive" and that the "discussions will continue tomorrow".

The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon government formation in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

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Prithviraj Chavan, Congress:All 3 parties had positive discussions about govt formation. We've reached consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow.Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record,I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things,we'll speak on them <a href="https://t.co/dHiXUB3Cic">pic.twitter.com/dHiXUB3Cic</a>
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The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday. The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday. The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government. "We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister," Pawar stated. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become the chief minister. #Maharashtra (file pic) pic.twitter.com/jh4pGgeTHz — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × The NCP, the Congress and the Sena, earlier in the evening, held a high-octane meeting to deliberate the government forming formula in Maharashtra. Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported. "Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said. "All three parties had positive discussions about government formation. We've reached a consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow. Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record, I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things, we'll speak on them," former Maharashtra CM and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/UTV9Lrk2c0 — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that the meeting between the three parties was "inconclusive" and that the "discussions will continue tomorrow". The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon government formation in Maharashtra. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. Prithviraj Chavan, Congress:All 3 parties had positive discussions about govt formation. We've reached consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow.Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record,I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things,we'll speak on them pic.twitter.com/dHiXUB3Cic — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. (With inputs from ANI)

Uddhav Thackeray has given consent to become Maharashtra Chief Minister: Sanjay Raut

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-troop-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-its-effects-on-india-199574"> Indian involvement in Afghanistan</a>, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops.

India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/timeline-of-two-decades-of-us-intervention-in-afghanistan-246619">US-led invasion toppled the Taliban</a>.

"The United States welcomes India's substantial investment in and assistance to Afghanistan," said Nancy Izzo Jackson, a State Department official in charge of Afghanistan.

"And we will continue to support efforts to achieve an honourable and enduring outcome in Afghanistan that preserves our investment in Afghanistan's future," she told a conference on India's role in Afghanistan at the Hudson Institute.

India constructed Afghanistan's new parliament building and has also wooed Afghans with its soft power, including Bollywood films.

But India's involvement in Afghanistan has been a cause of consternation for rival Pakistan, which has maintained ties to the Taliban in part citing fears of encirclement.

The United States earlier this year reached a deal with the Taliban to pull troops from Afghanistan and wind down America's longest war.

But Trump said in September that he was withdrawing an invitation to the insurgents to meet near Washington due to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-us-service-members-killed-in-afghanistan-nato-244690"> killing of a US soldier.</a>

Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Indian ambassador in Washington, said that any settlement in Afghanistan needed to ensure that "there is no room for any terrorist elements to create a foothold."

"It is also important to deliver the message to terrorists that democracies do not surrender to terrorism and in the ideological battle of the 'emirate' versus the 'republic,' the latter prevails," he said. 
&nbsp;

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued Indian involvement in Afghanistan, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops. India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 US-led invasion toppled the Taliban.

The United States said Thursday that it supported continued Indian involvement in Afghanistan, even as President Donald Trump looks to withdraw troops. India is one of the most enthusiastic backers of Afghanistan's government, contributing more than $3 billion since the 2001 US-led invasion toppled the Taliban. "The United States welcomes India's substantial investment in and assistance to Afghanistan," said Nancy Izzo Jackson, a State Department official in charge of Afghanistan. "And we will continue to support efforts to achieve an honourable and enduring outcome in Afghanistan that preserves our investment in Afghanistan's future," she told a conference on India's role in Afghanistan at the Hudson Institute. India constructed Afghanistan's new parliament building and has also wooed Afghans with its soft power, including Bollywood films. But India's involvement in Afghanistan has been a cause of consternation for rival Pakistan, which has maintained ties to the Taliban in part citing fears of encirclement. The United States earlier this year reached a deal with the Taliban to pull troops from Afghanistan and wind down America's longest war. But Trump said in September that he was withdrawing an invitation to the insurgents to meet near Washington due to the killing of a US soldier. Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Indian ambassador in Washington, said that any settlement in Afghanistan needed to ensure that "there is no room for any terrorist elements to create a foothold." "It is also important to deliver the message to terrorists that democracies do not surrender to terrorism and in the ideological battle of the 'emirate' versus the 'republic,' the latter prevails," he said.

United States welcomes India's substantial assistance to Afghanistan: State department official

Bangladesh Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-cricket-diplomacy-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-cm-mamta-banerjee-to-meet-on-sidelines-of-pink-ball-test-in-kolkata-263781">Sheikh Hasina</a> arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Premier was received by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.

PM Hasina along with the state chief minister Mamata Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium where the match will be held and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm. After the toss, the play will start at 1:00 pm.

After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel.

After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium.

She will also attend a one-to-one meeting with Banerjee on the sidelines of the match. The focus of the discussion is not known yet.

Meanwhile, to mark the historic occasion all major landmarks of Kolkata city like the Big Ben on Laketown, Howrah Bridge, Tata Centre, Eden Gardens, the Elliot Park, and Shahid Minar are turned pink to mark the occasion.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh Premier was received by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. PM Hasina along with the state chief minister Mamata Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium where the match will be held and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm. After the toss, the play will start at 1:00 pm. After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel. After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium. She will also attend a one-to-one meeting with Banerjee on the sidelines of the match. The focus of the discussion is not known yet. Meanwhile, to mark the historic occasion all major landmarks of Kolkata city like the Big Ben on Laketown, Howrah Bridge, Tata Centre, Eden Gardens, the Elliot Park, and Shahid Minar are turned pink to mark the occasion.

'Pink ball' Test: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina arrives in Kolkata

The overall air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-witnesses-public-health-emergency-as-air-quality-dips-to-severe-258952#curb-on-outdoor-activities-258945">remained in 'very poor' category</a> on Friday, according&nbsp;to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

In Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the air quality was in the 'moderate' category with major pollutants PM 2.5 at 261 and PM 10 at 249, according to the air quality index. While in Anand Vihar area, it remained in the 'hazardous' with PM 10 at 466 and PM 2.5 at 393.

During winter season each year, most of northern India suffers from a spike in toxicity in the air due to the change in weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

Not only that, but a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Thursday, environment minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-initiatives-have-been-taken-to-abate-control-air-pollution-in-delhi-ncr-prakash-javadekar-263629"> Prakash Javadekar told Rajya Sabha</a> that several initiatives have been taken to "abate and control air pollution in Delhi/NCR".

Javadekar told the Upper House that a high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister for the same and that "regular review meetings have been held," news agency ANI quoted the minister.&nbsp;

The minister also said that a comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed, "identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated".&nbsp;

He also said that the Central government has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi/NCR for different levels of pollution.

The overall air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas remained in 'very poor' category on Friday, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas remained in 'very poor' category on Friday, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). In Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the air quality was in the 'moderate' category with major pollutants PM 2.5 at 261 and PM 10 at 249, according to the air quality index. While in Anand Vihar area, it remained in the 'hazardous' with PM 10 at 466 and PM 2.5 at 393. During winter season each year, most of northern India suffers from a spike in toxicity in the air due to the change in weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Not only that, but a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground. Meanwhile, on Thursday, environment minister Prakash Javadekar told Rajya Sabha that several initiatives have been taken to "abate and control air pollution in Delhi/NCR". Javadekar told the Upper House that a high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister for the same and that "regular review meetings have been held," news agency ANI quoted the minister. The minister also said that a comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed, "identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated". He also said that the Central government has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi/NCR for different levels of pollution.

Delhi gasps for breath as pollution remains in 'very poor' category

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