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Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former President Pranab Mukherjee and several other Congress leaders paid tribute to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary at Shakti Sthal in New Delhi.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former President Pranab Mukherjee and several other Congress leaders paid tribute to late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary at Shakti Sthal in New Delhi. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee & Former Vice President Shri Hamid Ansari pay their respects on the 102nd birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi at Shakti Sthal. #IndiasIndira pic.twitter.com/ZeeoJN0tAK — Congress (@INCIndia) November 19, 2019 × "On her birth anniversary, we pay homage to India's first female Prime Minister, the Late Smt Indira Gandhi. Her will and determination led our country to great heights. Her contributions to India's national security, economy & foreign policy will always be cherished," Congress tweeted. Delhi: Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi, Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Former President Pranab Mukherjee pay floral tribute to Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary. pic.twitter.com/AUuiYH12Dj — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2019 × Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was the second-longest-serving Prime Minister after Nehru and was well-known for path-breaking economic and social reforms, including the nationalisation of banks. She also abolished privy purses of the erstwhile princely states. Indira Gandhi, who was hailed as one of the tallest world leaders, was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence on Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. (With inputs from ANI)

Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh pay tribute to Indira Gandhi on birth anniversary 

The meeting between leaders of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) that was scheduled to be held today, has been postponed to Wednesday, due to former prime minister Indira Gandhi's 102nd birth anniversary, NCP leader Nawab Malik said on Tuesday.

"Yesterday, Congress interim president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Sonia Gandhi and NCP chief</a> Sharad Pawar held a meeting. It was decided earlier that leaders from both parties will have a meeting later. That meeting was to be held today. But, today's meeting between the leaders of the two parties has been postponed till tomorrow afternoon as Congress leaders are busy in different programmes due to Indira Gandhi Ji's birth anniversary," Malik told ANI.

On Monday, Pawar had met Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi amid the impasse in Maharashtra over government formation.

Later, Pawar told reporters that he did not discuss anything about the government formation during his meeting with Gandhi and only briefed her about the current political situation in the state.

Giving a new twist to the emerging political scene in Maharashtra, Pawar on Monday said that the path of NCP and Congress is different from that of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-hits-out-at-bjp-for-making-its-mps-sit-in-opposition-in-parliament-263090">BJP and Shiv Sena</a>'s.

Pawar's comments came in the backdrop of Maharashtra coming under the President's Rule last week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.

BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in the 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena, that bagged 56 seats, remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted 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 Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government, failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on November 12.

The NCP won 54 seats while its ally Congress garnered 44 in last month's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">assembly election</a>.

The meeting between leaders of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) that was scheduled to be held today, has been postponed to Wednesday, due to former prime minister Indira Gandhi's 102nd birth anniversary, NCP leader Nawab Malik said on Tuesday.

The meeting between leaders of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) that was scheduled to be held today, has been postponed to Wednesday, due to former prime minister Indira Gandhi's 102nd birth anniversary, NCP leader Nawab Malik said on Tuesday. "Yesterday, Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar held a meeting. It was decided earlier that leaders from both parties will have a meeting later. That meeting was to be held today. But, today's meeting between the leaders of the two parties has been postponed till tomorrow afternoon as Congress leaders are busy in different programmes due to Indira Gandhi Ji's birth anniversary," Malik told ANI. On Monday, Pawar had met Gandhi at her residence in New Delhi amid the impasse in Maharashtra over government formation. Later, Pawar told reporters that he did not discuss anything about the government formation during his meeting with Gandhi and only briefed her about the current political situation in the state. Giving a new twist to the emerging political scene in Maharashtra, Pawar on Monday said that the path of NCP and Congress is different from that of BJP and Shiv Sena's. Pawar's comments came in the backdrop of Maharashtra coming under the President's Rule last week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in the 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena, that bagged 56 seats, remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted 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 Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government, failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on November 12. The NCP won 54 seats while its ally Congress garnered 44 in last month's assembly election.

NCP-Congress meeting postponed, to be held tomorrow: Nawab Malik

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/winter-session-begins-today-will-have-20-sittings-between-18th-nov-to-13th-dec-262847">winter session of the Parliament</a> commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani.

The winter session will go on till December 13 and will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days.

Many key bills, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-bill-in-focus-as-winter-session-of-parliament-gets-underway-from-today-262790">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019</a>, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

Ahead of the winter session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions.

Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament."

This is the second session of the Parliament since Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for a second successive term.

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday. The winter session of the Parliament commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani.

On the first day of its 250th session, the Rajya Sabha was around noon adjourned till 2 pm on Monday. The winter session of the Parliament commenced today and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha paid homage to its sitting and former lawmakers including Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Ram Jethmalani. The winter session will go on till December 13 and will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days. Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019. Ahead of the winter session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the session is an important one as it is the last in this year and all lawmakers should contribute to enriching the discussions. Talking about the need to have a "frank discussion" in the Parliament, the Prime Minister said, "It is important that there should be quality debates, there should be dialogue and discussions and everyone should contribute to enriching discussions in the Parliament." This is the second session of the Parliament since Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for a second successive term.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm on first day of 250th session

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram&nbsp;Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament.

After Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu gave obituary references to its sitting and former members, MPs present in the House paid homage to the distinguished parliamentarians.

On August 19, Mishra, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-bihar-chief-minister-jagannath-mishra-passes-away-at-82-244003">former Bihar chief minister </a>had passed away in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. The 82-year-old started his career as a professor and went on to become chief minister of Bihar thrice from the Congress. Mishra also served as a union minister.

He served as a Rajya Sabha MP between 1988 to 1990 and from 1994 to 2000.

Jaitley, who served as finance minister in the first tenure of the Narendra Modi-led government, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitleys-mortal-remains-moved-to-bjp-headquarters-several-leaders-arrive-to-pay-respects-245427">breathed his last on August 24 </a>at AIIMS in the national capital after suffering from health issues. He was 66 and served as the Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2019.

On September 6, Congress leader Libra passed away due to health issues. He was 86 and served in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Libra served as a parliamentarian at the Upper House between 1998 to 2004.

On September 8, noted lawyer Jethmalani had passed away at the age of 95. He served as the law minister and the urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He had also served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India.

Jethmalani, who was known for taking up high-profile cases, was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2019.

Dasgupta, a CPI leader, breathed his last in Kolkata on October 31. He was aged 83 and was suffering from heart and kidney-related ailments.

Dasgupta was the CPI's former deputy general secretary and a well-known trade unionist. He was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1985, 1988 and 1994.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-speaker-calls-all-party-meeting-on-saturday-262452">winter session of Parliament</a> commenced from today and will go on till December 13. The session will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days.

Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday paid rich tributes to Jagannath Mishra, Arun Jaitley, Sukhdev Singh Libra, Ram Jethmalani and Gurudas Dasgupta, who served as lawmakers in the Upper House of the Parliament. After Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu gave obituary references to its sitting and former members, MPs present in the House paid homage to the distinguished parliamentarians. On August 19, Mishra, a former Bihar chief minister had passed away in New Delhi after a prolonged illness. The 82-year-old started his career as a professor and went on to become chief minister of Bihar thrice from the Congress. Mishra also served as a union minister. He served as a Rajya Sabha MP between 1988 to 1990 and from 1994 to 2000. Jaitley, who served as finance minister in the first tenure of the Narendra Modi-led government, breathed his last on August 24 at AIIMS in the national capital after suffering from health issues. He was 66 and served as the Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2019. On September 6, Congress leader Libra passed away due to health issues. He was 86 and served in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Libra served as a parliamentarian at the Upper House between 1998 to 2004. On September 8, noted lawyer Jethmalani had passed away at the age of 95. He served as the law minister and the urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He had also served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India. Jethmalani, who was known for taking up high-profile cases, was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2019. Dasgupta, a CPI leader, breathed his last in Kolkata on October 31. He was aged 83 and was suffering from heart and kidney-related ailments. Dasgupta was the CPI's former deputy general secretary and a well-known trade unionist. He was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1985, 1988 and 1994. The winter session of Parliament commenced from today and will go on till December 13. The session will provide a total of 20 sittings spread over a period of 26 days, including four Private Members' days. Many key bills, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2019, are scheduled to be tabled in this session of the Parliament. Other important bills that are expected to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019.

Rajya Sabha remembers MPs including Arun Jaitley, Ram Jethmalani

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-will-be-from-shiv-sena-says-senior-ncp-leader-262295">Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)</a> chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

"There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi.

Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting.

After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said.

The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting.

"The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said.

Maharashtra came under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's Rule</a> earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 
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 only 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 Governor BS Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday.

The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">288-member assembly</a> followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra. "There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi. Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting. After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said. The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting. "The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said. Maharashtra came under President's Rule earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 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 only 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 Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Sharad Pawar arrives in Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi on Maharashtra govt formation

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday cancelled his scheduled Ayodhya visit due to security concerns, party sources said.

Uddhav was to visit Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on November 24.

"Due to security concerns in Ayodhya, the Shiv Sena chief did not get permission from security agencies to visit the place," sources in the party said.

The delay in government formation in Maharashtra is the other reason why Shiv Sena chief cancelled his tour.&nbsp;

At a press conference on November 9, hailing the Supreme Court's decision on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, Uddhav had said that he will be going to Ayodhya on November 24.

The Supreme Court on November 9 directed the Centre to give five acres of suitable land to Sunni Waqf Board and at the same time make necessary arrangements for the construction of the temple by forming a trust.

On June 16 this year, Uddhav and his son Aditya Thackeray had visited Ayodhya and offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine.

Uddhav had visited Ayodhya last year too on November 25.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday cancelled his scheduled Ayodhya visit due to security concerns, party sources said. Uddhav was to visit Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on November 24.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday cancelled his scheduled Ayodhya visit due to security concerns, party sources said. Uddhav was to visit Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on November 24. "Due to security concerns in Ayodhya, the Shiv Sena chief did not get permission from security agencies to visit the place," sources in the party said. The delay in government formation in Maharashtra is the other reason why Shiv Sena chief cancelled his tour. At a press conference on November 9, hailing the Supreme Court's decision on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, Uddhav had said that he will be going to Ayodhya on November 24. The Supreme Court on November 9 directed the Centre to give five acres of suitable land to Sunni Waqf Board and at the same time make necessary arrangements for the construction of the temple by forming a trust. On June 16 this year, Uddhav and his son Aditya Thackeray had visited Ayodhya and offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine. Uddhav had visited Ayodhya last year too on November 25. (With inputs from ANI)

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray cancels Ayodhya visit due to security concern

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Will the Opposition support the Citizenship Amendment Bill? Will the issue of the economy, unemployment bother the government?

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec

Today is the first day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session. Let's listen in...

First day of Parliament's Winter session, PM Modi speaks ahead of the session

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that Government of India (GoI) is committed to working towards achieving a US$ 26 billion Defence Industry by 2025.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that Government of India (GoI) is committed to working towards achieving a US$ 26 billion Defence Industry by 2025. Rajnath Singh was speaking at sixth ASEAN defence ministers’ meeting-plus in Thailand. The defence sector has been identified as one of the prominent sectors under 'Make in India' initiative to realise US$ 5 trillion economy by 2024, he said. India is the second-largest importer of arms as of 2014-18 with a share of 9.5% of the total world imports. The draft Defence Production Policy 2018 had set a target of US$ 5 billion in defence exports by 2025, the defence minister said and added while the target is ambitious, it's encouraging to know that India's defence exports grew nearly six times over the past 2 years. Allocation for defence in India's budget 2019-20 is around US$ 60 billion. Nearly 65% of parts, components, sub-systems of existing systems has been delicensed, India can now manufacture them and approx US$ 3 billion worth of defence items are being manufactured by domestic privet sector, he said.

India committed to achieving $26 billion defence industry by 2025: Rajnath Singh

The number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../wion-edit-will-artificial-intelligence-lead-to-job- losses-260746">Indian students</a> studying in the United States increased by nearly three per cent in 2018-19 over the last year to 202,014, as per the 2019 Open Doors Report released on Monday.

This marks the sixth consecutive year that the total number of Indians pursuing their higher education in the US has grown, the US embassy in New Delhi said in a release.

The report, which provides an annual statistical survey on international students in the US, shows that Indians make up over 18 percent of all international students in the US, and provides the second-highest number of graduate students and third-highest undergraduate students.

Speaking on the occasion of the release of the report at the United States India Educational Foundation (USIEF), the US Embassy's Minister Counselor for Consular Affairs, Charisse Phillips, said, "Student exchanges between our two countries (India and the US) help strengthen the foundation upon which our strategic partnership is built. Indian students are looking for a great education and the United States offers the best return on this investment."

In 2018-19, US colleges and universities hosted more than one million international students for the fourth consecutive year, while the total number of international students expanded for the thirteenth consecutive year.

The top places of origin for international students studying in the US were China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Brazil and Mexico, while the top host states were California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana.

The number of Indian students studying in the United States increased by nearly three per cent in 2018-19 over the last year to 202,014, as per the 2019 Open Doors Report released on Monday.

The number of Indian students studying in the United States increased by nearly three per cent in 2018-19 over the last year to 202,014, as per the 2019 Open Doors Report released on Monday. This marks the sixth consecutive year that the total number of Indians pursuing their higher education in the US has grown, the US embassy in New Delhi said in a release. The report, which provides an annual statistical survey on international students in the US, shows that Indians make up over 18 percent of all international students in the US, and provides the second-highest number of graduate students and third-highest undergraduate students. Speaking on the occasion of the release of the report at the United States India Educational Foundation (USIEF), the US Embassy's Minister Counselor for Consular Affairs, Charisse Phillips, said, "Student exchanges between our two countries (India and the US) help strengthen the foundation upon which our strategic partnership is built. Indian students are looking for a great education and the United States offers the best return on this investment." In 2018-19, US colleges and universities hosted more than one million international students for the fourth consecutive year, while the total number of international students expanded for the thirteenth consecutive year. The top places of origin for international students studying in the US were China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Brazil and Mexico, while the top host states were California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana.

Indians studying in US increase by 3 per cent in 2018-19: Report

The Indian government has told a court that its federal ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes implies that their use is also prohibited, legal documents seen by Reuters showed, in a further clampdown on the devices.

Citing health risks, India in September banned the import, manufacture, sale, advertisement, storage and distribution of e-cigarettes, dashing future plans of companies such as US-based Juul Labs and Philip Morris International.

India's decision, however, did not ban the use of such devices outright, and a senior Health Ministry official told Reuters after the announcement that e-cigarette use would not be barred.

However, in a November 5 filing in a Kolkata court, where the government is defending two legal challenges against the ban, the ministry said it was "completely baseless" to say only the sale and manufacture of e-cigarettes and vaping devices was barred, and not use.

"The ordinance is aimed at banning the product. Once the import, production, manufacture, distribution and storage of e-cigarettes is prohibited, it is implied that the use of e-cigarettes is also prohibited," said the court filing, which has been reviewed by Reuters and has not been made public.

The Health Ministry official said on Monday the court document was "factually correct", without giving further details due to the court proceedings.

The official added the authorities would not take action against the "personal use" of e-cigarettes.

The filing, however, has unnerved users, who argue against the ban and say they fear police action if they continue using the devices.

"This filing goes against the Health Ministry's announcements that personal use is not banned," said Samrat Chowdhery of Association of Vapers India. He added India should add a clause to its ban order to exclude personal use.

India banned the sale of e-cigarettes as it fears they could lead to increased nicotine addiction. Advocates for e-cigarettes say vaping is far less harmful than smoking tobacco.

India's 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, make it an attractive market for companies such as Juul, which had plans to launch its device in the country.

"As Juul, an e-cigarette giant, was entering India and would flood the Indian markets (the ban order) became all the more imminent and necessary," the Health Ministry said in one of its court filings.

The Indian government has told a court that its federal ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes implies that their use is also prohibited, legal documents seen by Reuters showed, in a further clampdown on the devices.

The Indian government has told a court that its federal ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes implies that their use is also prohibited, legal documents seen by Reuters showed, in a further clampdown on the devices. Citing health risks, India in September banned the import, manufacture, sale, advertisement, storage and distribution of e-cigarettes, dashing future plans of companies such as US-based Juul Labs and Philip Morris International. India's decision, however, did not ban the use of such devices outright, and a senior Health Ministry official told Reuters after the announcement that e-cigarette use would not be barred. However, in a November 5 filing in a Kolkata court, where the government is defending two legal challenges against the ban, the ministry said it was "completely baseless" to say only the sale and manufacture of e-cigarettes and vaping devices was barred, and not use. "The ordinance is aimed at banning the product. Once the import, production, manufacture, distribution and storage of e-cigarettes is prohibited, it is implied that the use of e-cigarettes is also prohibited," said the court filing, which has been reviewed by Reuters and has not been made public. The Health Ministry official said on Monday the court document was "factually correct", without giving further details due to the court proceedings. The official added the authorities would not take action against the "personal use" of e-cigarettes. The filing, however, has unnerved users, who argue against the ban and say they fear police action if they continue using the devices. "This filing goes against the Health Ministry's announcements that personal use is not banned," said Samrat Chowdhery of Association of Vapers India. He added India should add a clause to its ban order to exclude personal use. India banned the sale of e-cigarettes as it fears they could lead to increased nicotine addiction. Advocates for e-cigarettes say vaping is far less harmful than smoking tobacco. India's 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, make it an attractive market for companies such as Juul, which had plans to launch its device in the country. "As Juul, an e-cigarette giant, was entering India and would flood the Indian markets (the ban order) became all the more imminent and necessary," the Health Ministry said in one of its court filings.

India says e-cigarette ban implies use of devices also prohibited

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13.

This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, &nbsp;which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The government is likely to push passage for citizenship amendment bill, which the government was unable to pass in the previous tenure.

Economic slowdown, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and unemployment are some of the key issues that are likely to emerge as flashpoints between the opposition and the BJP government.&nbsp;

The first session was productive as both houses of the parliament passed key legislations such as Triple Talaq and giving more power to the National Investigation Agency.

The last session also saw both the houses passing resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcating the state into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

However, the opposition Congress party has given adjournment motion in the lower house over quote-unquote instability in J&amp;K.

Ahead of the session Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to reporters and said that he hopes that this session will be a productive one.

Today also marks the 250th sitting of the Rajya Sabha.

Chairman Venkaiah Naidu has released a publication that details the journey of the upper house since May 1952.

Total sittings of the Rajya Sabha till its 249th session is 5,466. Since its existence, the house has passed 3,817 bills.

Out of which 60 bills lapsed due to dissolution of Lok Sabha at various point of time. A total number of bills introduced in Rajya Sabha is at 944.

104 bills have been withdrawn by the upper house and over 38 bills of bills are still pending in the house.

Addressing the parliament during its 250th session, PM Modi said that the Rajya Sabha allows people away from electoral politics. And contribute to the country and its development.

PM Modi also hailed the Rajya Sabha on passing some landmark judgements including the triple talaq bill, abrogation of article 370 etc.

To celebrate the 250th session, the upper house will discuss 'the role of Rajya Sabha in Indian polity: the need for reform' in the second half today.

A postal coin of Rs 250 and postal stamp of Rs 5 will also be released to commemorate the evolution of Rajya Sabha.

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13. This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The winter session of the Indian parliament has begun. The session will have 20 sittings between November 18 and December 13. This is the second parliamentary session of the BJP-led NDA government, which returned to power with a greater mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The government is likely to push passage for citizenship amendment bill, which the government was unable to pass in the previous tenure. Economic slowdown, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and unemployment are some of the key issues that are likely to emerge as flashpoints between the opposition and the BJP government. The first session was productive as both houses of the parliament passed key legislations such as Triple Talaq and giving more power to the National Investigation Agency. The last session also saw both the houses passing resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcating the state into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. However, the opposition Congress party has given adjournment motion in the lower house over quote-unquote instability in J&K. Ahead of the session Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to reporters and said that he hopes that this session will be a productive one. Today also marks the 250th sitting of the Rajya Sabha. Chairman Venkaiah Naidu has released a publication that details the journey of the upper house since May 1952. Total sittings of the Rajya Sabha till its 249th session is 5,466. Since its existence, the house has passed 3,817 bills. Out of which 60 bills lapsed due to dissolution of Lok Sabha at various point of time. A total number of bills introduced in Rajya Sabha is at 944. 104 bills have been withdrawn by the upper house and over 38 bills of bills are still pending in the house. Addressing the parliament during its 250th session, PM Modi said that the Rajya Sabha allows people away from electoral politics. And contribute to the country and its development. PM Modi also hailed the Rajya Sabha on passing some landmark judgements including the triple talaq bill, abrogation of article 370 etc. To celebrate the 250th session, the upper house will discuss 'the role of Rajya Sabha in Indian polity: the need for reform' in the second half today. A postal coin of Rs 250 and postal stamp of Rs 5 will also be released to commemorate the evolution of Rajya Sabha.

Winter session of Parliament: Government set to push Citizenship Amendment Bill

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was on Monday sworn-in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI). He succeeds Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after remaining in office for over 13 months.

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was on Monday sworn-in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI). He succeeds Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after remaining in office for over 13 months. Delhi: Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde takes oath as Chief Justice of India. pic.twitter.com/JdacpmNUi4 — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2019 × President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office to the new chief justice at 9.30 am. Justice Bobde was born in 1956 at Nagpur, Maharashtra and obtained his BA and LLB degrees from Nagpur University. He enrolled on the rolls of the Bar Council of Maharashtra in 1978 and practised law at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court with appearances at Bombay before the Principal Seat and before the Supreme Court for over 21 years. He was designated as a senior advocate in 1998. Justice Bobde was elevated to the bench of the Bombay High Court on March 29, 2000, as an Additional Judge. He was sworn in as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court on October 16, 2012. He was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court of India on April 12, 2013. Justice Bobde will retire as CJI on April 23, 2021. (With inputs from ANI)

Bobde sworn-in as the 47th Chief Justice of India, succeeds Gogoi

BJP will stage a 'sadak bandh' throughout Telangana on November 19 against some officials in the state government who are acting like "agents of the ruling TRS" by going after those who sided with the TSRTC employees, said the party's state President Dr K Laxman.

"It is most unfortunate that some IAS officers in Telangana are acting as agents of ruling TRS party by not only filing false affidavits, false data, and false allegations and have gone to an extent of levelling charges against BJP and even RTC employees that they are conspiring to dethrone the present state government," Laxman was quoted as saying on Sunday.

"BJP is going to participate in the 'Sadak Bandh' programme. I will lead the agitation on that day and this should become an eye-opener to the government. And see to it that the TSRTC employees' genuine demands are met, otherwise the government shall face adverse consequences in the state," he added.

Dr Laxman urged the High Court to take suo moto cognizance of the statements issued by the Transport Principal Secretary, in which he had blamed the BJP and also questioned whether standing up for the rightful demands of the TSRTC employees could be seen as a move to destabilise the K Chandrasekhar Rao-led state government.

The employees have been on a strike since October 5 with several demands including revision of pay.

On November 14, Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed to lead the protest, decided to keep aside their demand as the government showed no signs of softening its stand.

At least five TSRTC employees have committed suicide since the commencement of the strike.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

BJP will stage a 'sadak bandh' throughout Telangana on November 19 against some officials in the state government who are acting like "agents of the ruling TRS" by going after those who sided with the TSRTC employees, said the party's state President Dr K Laxman.

BJP will stage a 'sadak bandh' throughout Telangana on November 19 against some officials in the state government who are acting like "agents of the ruling TRS" by going after those who sided with the TSRTC employees, said the party's state President Dr K Laxman. "It is most unfortunate that some IAS officers in Telangana are acting as agents of ruling TRS party by not only filing false affidavits, false data, and false allegations and have gone to an extent of levelling charges against BJP and even RTC employees that they are conspiring to dethrone the present state government," Laxman was quoted as saying on Sunday. "BJP is going to participate in the 'Sadak Bandh' programme. I will lead the agitation on that day and this should become an eye-opener to the government. And see to it that the TSRTC employees' genuine demands are met, otherwise the government shall face adverse consequences in the state," he added. Dr Laxman urged the High Court to take suo moto cognizance of the statements issued by the Transport Principal Secretary, in which he had blamed the BJP and also questioned whether standing up for the rightful demands of the TSRTC employees could be seen as a move to destabilise the K Chandrasekhar Rao-led state government. The employees have been on a strike since October 5 with several demands including revision of pay. On November 14, Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed to lead the protest, decided to keep aside their demand as the government showed no signs of softening its stand. At least five TSRTC employees have committed suicide since the commencement of the strike. (With inputs from ANI)

BJP to stage 'sadak bandh' throughout Telangana on November 19

An avalanche has hit Indian Army positions in the Siachen Glacier where some Army jawans are stuck under the snow.&nbsp;

According to preliminary information, the avalanche struck the camp located in the northern Siachen Glacier, at a height of 18,000 feet at around 3.30 pm on Monday.&nbsp;

Rescue operations by specialised teams of the Army are underway and are being coordinated from other Army bases in the nearby areas.

The incident highlights the severe dangers that soldiers face in manning the inhospitable terrain at heights of 18,875 ft in intense climate conditions on the world’s highest battlefield.

In 2016, Ten soldiers, including nine jawans of the Indian Army's 19 Madras battalion and one junior commissioned officer (JCO), were killed after an avalanche came crashing down on their post situated at 19,600 feet on the Actual Ground Position Line, which is India's border with Pakistan at Siachen.

Around 900 soldiers have lost their lives due to bad climatic conditions in&nbsp;Siachen Glacier since the 1980s.

(With inputs from agencies)

An avalanche has hit Indian Army positions in the Siachen Glacier where some Army jawans are stuck under the snow. According to preliminary information, the avalanche struck the camp located in the northern Siachen Glacier, at a height of 18,000 feet at around 3.

An avalanche has hit Indian Army positions in the Siachen Glacier where some Army jawans are stuck under the snow. According to preliminary information, the avalanche struck the camp located in the northern Siachen Glacier, at a height of 18,000 feet at around 3.30 pm on Monday. Rescue operations by specialised teams of the Army are underway and are being coordinated from other Army bases in the nearby areas. The incident highlights the severe dangers that soldiers face in manning the inhospitable terrain at heights of 18,875 ft in intense climate conditions on the world’s highest battlefield. In 2016, Ten soldiers, including nine jawans of the Indian Army's 19 Madras battalion and one junior commissioned officer (JCO), were killed after an avalanche came crashing down on their post situated at 19,600 feet on the Actual Ground Position Line, which is India's border with Pakistan at Siachen. Around 900 soldiers have lost their lives due to bad climatic conditions in Siachen Glacier since the 1980s. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian soldiers trapped in snow as avalanche hits Army positions in Siachen Glacier

The economy will be on focus at the winter session of the Parliament which begins today. The session will also see the tabling of many bills including Citizenship Bill.

The session, which ends on December 13, will have a total of 20 sittings spread across 26 days, including four Private Members' days.

The Citizenship Bill, which the BJP seeks to pass with the aim of granting citizenship to non-Muslims from neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014, will be taken up during the proceedings of the House.

Other key bills that are likely to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 among the 47 items.

Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended an all-party leaders meeting where he said that the government will seek to work together will all parties in a constructive manner to take up all pending legislative work.

Union Ministers Amit Shah, Thawarchand Gehlot, V Muraleedharan and Arjun Ram Meghwal attended the meeting, convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi.

After the all-party leaders meeting, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu had also met the floor leaders yesterday.

This will be the second session of the Parliament since Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for the second successive term.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The economy will be on focus at the winter session of the Parliament which begins today. The session will also see the tabling of many bills including Citizenship Bill.

The economy will be on focus at the winter session of the Parliament which begins today. The session will also see the tabling of many bills including Citizenship Bill. The session, which ends on December 13, will have a total of 20 sittings spread across 26 days, including four Private Members' days. The Citizenship Bill, which the BJP seeks to pass with the aim of granting citizenship to non-Muslims from neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who came to India before December 31, 2014, will be taken up during the proceedings of the House. Other key bills that are likely to be taken up during the course of the Houses include the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Anti Maritime Piracy Bill 2019 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 among the 47 items. Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended an all-party leaders meeting where he said that the government will seek to work together will all parties in a constructive manner to take up all pending legislative work. Union Ministers Amit Shah, Thawarchand Gehlot, V Muraleedharan and Arjun Ram Meghwal attended the meeting, convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi. After the all-party leaders meeting, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu had also met the floor leaders yesterday. This will be the second session of the Parliament since Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to office with a bigger majority for the second successive term. (With inputs from ANI)

Citizenship Bill in focus as winter session of Parliament gets underway from today 

The founder of one of Pakistan's main political party Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) previously known as Muhajir Qaumi Movement, Altaf Hussain has pleaded to Modi to grant him and his colleague's asylum in India.

The MQM founder also sought financial assistance from the Indian prime minister.

Hussain has been living in exile in the UK since the launch of 'Operation Clean Up' that had been launched by the then Pakistani Government in 1992 targeting Muttahida Qaumi Movement.

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Watch | Exiled <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> leader and founder of MQM, Altaf Hussain, seeks asylum in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/AltafHussain_90?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AltafHussain_90</a> <a href="https://t.co/iNL2dV6VV9">pic.twitter.com/iNL2dV6VV9</a>
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He is due to stand trial in June 2020 and passport remains with the UK police.

Hussain was charged by the UK's crown prosecution services for encouraging terrorism through a speech relayed to his followers in Pakistan in 2016.

In a video speech recorded by Hussain after London police relaxed his bail conditions, he turned towards Modi for help.

The MQM leader said he would like to travel to India because his grandparents are buried there.

Hussain alleged that his assets, house, and offices were taken over in Karachi leaving him with no means to “fight for justice” against the Pakistani regime.&nbsp;

MQM and its leader Altaf Hussain decided to boycott elections in 2018 due to military intervention in political affairs, &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Promising that he would not interfere in any politics, Hussian has said that he welcomed the supreme court verdict in the Ayodhya case.

The founder of one of Pakistan's main political party Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) previously known as Muhajir Qaumi Movement, Altaf Hussain has pleaded to Modi to grant him and his colleague's asylum in India.

The founder of one of Pakistan's main political party Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) previously known as Muhajir Qaumi Movement, Altaf Hussain has pleaded to Modi to grant him and his colleague's asylum in India. The MQM founder also sought financial assistance from the Indian prime minister. Hussain has been living in exile in the UK since the launch of 'Operation Clean Up' that had been launched by the then Pakistani Government in 1992 targeting Muttahida Qaumi Movement. Watch | Exiled #Pakistan leader and founder of MQM, Altaf Hussain, seeks asylum in #India. @AltafHussain_90 pic.twitter.com/iNL2dV6VV9 — WION (@WIONews) November 18, 2019 × He is due to stand trial in June 2020 and passport remains with the UK police. Hussain was charged by the UK's crown prosecution services for encouraging terrorism through a speech relayed to his followers in Pakistan in 2016. In a video speech recorded by Hussain after London police relaxed his bail conditions, he turned towards Modi for help. The MQM leader said he would like to travel to India because his grandparents are buried there. Hussain alleged that his assets, house, and offices were taken over in Karachi leaving him with no means to “fight for justice” against the Pakistani regime. MQM and its leader Altaf Hussain decided to boycott elections in 2018 due to military intervention in political affairs, Promising that he would not interfere in any politics, Hussian has said that he welcomed the supreme court verdict in the Ayodhya case.

Muttahida Quami Movement founder Altaf Hussain seeks asylum in India

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was, on November 18, sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI).&nbsp;

The oath of office was administered to him by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

As Chief justice of India, his first challenge would be to resurrecting the image of the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

He succeeds Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after serving for over 13 months.&nbsp;

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was born in 1956 in Nagpur. He completed his law from Nagpur University and was appointed as a senior advocate in the bar council of Maharastra and was appointed as n additional judge in 1998.&nbsp;

Later in 2012, Arvind Bobde was elected as the chief justice of Madhya Pradesh High court. In the next year, he was given a chance to become a judge of the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

In his tenure of being a judge, he was a part of many landmark cases. He was apart of a five-judge constitution bench in which he suggested to put the curtain down on the Ayodhya land dispute and nine-judge of the top court in which he protected the fundamental rights of India.

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde also headed a three-member in-house committee which gave a clean chit to our Ex-chief Justice Gogoi on a sexual harassment case.&nbsp;

Justice Bobde was also a part of the three-judge bench which took place in 2015, clarified that no citizen of India without an Aadhar card can be denied basic government services. &nbsp;

Last month, Justice Bobde advocated the usage of high-end technology including Artificial Intelligence (AI) in courts.

"Justice delivery system is good, it might require some minor changes, including the use of technology like artificial intelligence," Justice Bobde had said.

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was, on November 18, sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI). The oath of office was administered to him by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was, on November 18, sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI). The oath of office was administered to him by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. As Chief justice of India, his first challenge would be to resurrecting the image of the Supreme Court. He succeeds Justice Ranjan Gogoi who retired on November 17 after serving for over 13 months. Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde was born in 1956 in Nagpur. He completed his law from Nagpur University and was appointed as a senior advocate in the bar council of Maharastra and was appointed as n additional judge in 1998. Later in 2012, Arvind Bobde was elected as the chief justice of Madhya Pradesh High court. In the next year, he was given a chance to become a judge of the Supreme Court. In his tenure of being a judge, he was a part of many landmark cases. He was apart of a five-judge constitution bench in which he suggested to put the curtain down on the Ayodhya land dispute and nine-judge of the top court in which he protected the fundamental rights of India. Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde also headed a three-member in-house committee which gave a clean chit to our Ex-chief Justice Gogoi on a sexual harassment case. Justice Bobde was also a part of the three-judge bench which took place in 2015, clarified that no citizen of India without an Aadhar card can be denied basic government services. Last month, Justice Bobde advocated the usage of high-end technology including Artificial Intelligence (AI) in courts. "Justice delivery system is good, it might require some minor changes, including the use of technology like artificial intelligence," Justice Bobde had said.

Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde: 47th Chief Justice of India, who advocates use of 'artificial intelligence' in courts

Pro-china Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been sworn in as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gotabaya-rajapaksa-sworn-in-as-sri-lankan-new-president-262851">7th President of Sri Lanka</a>.

The oath-taking ceremony took place in Anuradhapura. With Gotabaya's swearing-in, the powerful Rajapaksa family has made a comeback.

Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-congratulates-gotabaya-rajapaksa-for-winning-sri-lanka-presidential-election-262770">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> was among the first leaders to congratulate Gotabaya on his victory.

Modi said that he looked forward to deepening ties between India and Sri Lanka.

Replying to Modi, Gotabaya thanked the people of India and said that he looked forward to meeting the Indian Prime Minister.

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I thank Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the people of India for your warm wishes. Our two nations are bound by history and common beliefs and I look forward to strengthening our friendship and meeting you in the near future <a href="https://t.co/WZkLWc3MFS">https://t.co/WZkLWc3MFS</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1195965508018769922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Now, a pro-Beijing government in a neighbouring nation is going to impact India in a major way.

Watch:&nbsp;Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory in Sri Lanka: What does it mean for India?

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&nbsp;

China became Sri Lanka's largest donor under Gotabaya's brother Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency.

In fact, it was his party that leased the Hambantota port to Beijing for 99 years. Critics have dubbed the port deal as a 'Chinese debt trap'.

Last year, Gotabaya said that India unnecessarily interfered in Sri Lanka's internal affairs.

Now, a pro-China govt is also going to be a regional challenge for India.&nbsp;

Remember, Sri Lanka is central to India's maritime security as the two nations share a maritime boundary.

Meanwhile, ahead of his swearing-in ceremony, Gotabaya hinted that his brother Mahinda might make a comeback as the prime minister.

Remember, Mahinda Rajapaksa served as the de facto Prime Minister of the country for a short time, last year.

In his message to Mahinda, Gotabaya said.

"It is time for this land to demand your services again. May you join us in fulfilling people's demands."

Pro-china Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been sworn in as the 7th President of Sri Lanka. The oath-taking ceremony took place in Anuradhapura. With Gotabaya's swearing-in, the powerful Rajapaksa family has made a comeback.

Pro-china Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been sworn in as the 7th President of Sri Lanka. The oath-taking ceremony took place in Anuradhapura. With Gotabaya's swearing-in, the powerful Rajapaksa family has made a comeback. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first leaders to congratulate Gotabaya on his victory. Modi said that he looked forward to deepening ties between India and Sri Lanka. Replying to Modi, Gotabaya thanked the people of India and said that he looked forward to meeting the Indian Prime Minister. I thank Prime Minister @narendramodi and the people of India for your warm wishes. Our two nations are bound by history and common beliefs and I look forward to strengthening our friendship and meeting you in the near future https://t.co/WZkLWc3MFS — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) November 17, 2019 × Now, a pro-Beijing government in a neighbouring nation is going to impact India in a major way. Watch: Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory in Sri Lanka: What does it mean for India? × China became Sri Lanka's largest donor under Gotabaya's brother Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency. In fact, it was his party that leased the Hambantota port to Beijing for 99 years. Critics have dubbed the port deal as a 'Chinese debt trap'. Last year, Gotabaya said that India unnecessarily interfered in Sri Lanka's internal affairs. Now, a pro-China govt is also going to be a regional challenge for India. Remember, Sri Lanka is central to India's maritime security as the two nations share a maritime boundary. Meanwhile, ahead of his swearing-in ceremony, Gotabaya hinted that his brother Mahinda might make a comeback as the prime minister. Remember, Mahinda Rajapaksa served as the de facto Prime Minister of the country for a short time, last year. In his message to Mahinda, Gotabaya said. "It is time for this land to demand your services again. May you join us in fulfilling people's demands."

Is Rajapaksa regime's inclination towards Beijing a challenge to India?

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/look-forward-to-a-productive-parliament-session-pm-narendra-modi-262632">Narendra Modi</a> on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house.&nbsp;

''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well. It is a far-sighted house,'' the prime minister said during his address in Rajya Sabha during a discussion on 250th session of the House.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha gives an opportunity to people away from electoral politics to contribute to the country and its development, Modi said.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha has risen to the occasion whenever it comes to the good of the nation, Modi said and added, it was widely believed that Triple Talaq bill would not pass here but it did.&nbsp;

Speaking about the landmark GST Bill, which was passed during the first term of Modi government, the prime minister said even GST became a reality after it was passed in this House (Rajya Sabha), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-pm-narendra-modis-foreign-policy-pivot-262873">the prime minister</a> said.

''We can never forget the role of the Rajya Sabha when bills related to Articles 370 and 35(A) were passed,'' Modi said reminiscing the landmark bill that rescinded the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir and resulted in its bifurcation into two Union Territories.&nbsp;

Watch: PM Modi addresses the 250th session of Parliament

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Quoting &nbsp;Atal Bihari Vajpayee who ha remarked that &nbsp;Rajya Sabha may be the second house but it should not be called a secondary house, Modi said that he agreed with former prime minister's remark and said that Rajya Sabha must be an active supportive house for national development.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-worlds-most-open-and-investment-friendly-economy-pm-modi-at-brics-262166">prime minister</a> had a word praise for NCP and BJD for the way both the parties conducted themselves in the House.

''These parties (NCP and BJD) have strictly adhered to parliamentary norms and never gone into the well. Yet, they have raised their points very effectively,'' he said.

Other parties including BJP can learn from them, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house. ''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Rajya Sabha has seen many historic moments and described it (Rajya Sabha) as a far-sighted house. ''Rajya Sabha has made history and has seen history being made as well. It is a far-sighted house,'' the prime minister said during his address in Rajya Sabha during a discussion on 250th session of the House. The Rajya Sabha gives an opportunity to people away from electoral politics to contribute to the country and its development, Modi said. Rajya Sabha has risen to the occasion whenever it comes to the good of the nation, Modi said and added, it was widely believed that Triple Talaq bill would not pass here but it did. Speaking about the landmark GST Bill, which was passed during the first term of Modi government, the prime minister said even GST became a reality after it was passed in this House (Rajya Sabha), the prime minister said. ''We can never forget the role of the Rajya Sabha when bills related to Articles 370 and 35(A) were passed,'' Modi said reminiscing the landmark bill that rescinded the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir and resulted in its bifurcation into two Union Territories. Watch: PM Modi addresses the 250th session of Parliament Quoting Atal Bihari Vajpayee who ha remarked that Rajya Sabha may be the second house but it should not be called a secondary house, Modi said that he agreed with former prime minister's remark and said that Rajya Sabha must be an active supportive house for national development. The prime minister had a word praise for NCP and BJD for the way both the parties conducted themselves in the House. ''These parties (NCP and BJD) have strictly adhered to parliamentary norms and never gone into the well. Yet, they have raised their points very effectively,'' he said. Other parties including BJP can learn from them, he said.

'This house has seen many historic moments,' says Modi in Rajya Sabha address 

The first India-Japan foreign and defence minister 2+2 dialogue will take place in Delhi on November 30.&nbsp;

The 2+2 dialogue comes weeks before Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's upcoming India visit. He is slated to visit in mid-December for the annual India-Japan summit which will be the 14th one in the series.&nbsp;

Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met Japanese Defence minister on Sunday in Thailand on the sidelines of the 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

A release from the defence ministry on the meet said, "Both of them will meet again in New Delhi for the 2+2 meeting scheduled later this month. Both the leaders had a detailed discussion on adding further momentum to India-Japan defence cooperation."&nbsp;

India and Japan have been increasing engagement, especially when it comes to the growing Indo Pacific concept.&nbsp;

PM Modi has met Japanese PM Abe 2 times this year, first in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit and then in Vladivostok, Russia on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.

The first India-Japan foreign and defence minister 2+2 dialogue will take place in Delhi on November 30. The 2+2 dialogue comes weeks before Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's upcoming India visit.

The first India-Japan foreign and defence minister 2+2 dialogue will take place in Delhi on November 30. The 2+2 dialogue comes weeks before Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's upcoming India visit. He is slated to visit in mid-December for the annual India-Japan summit which will be the 14th one in the series. Defence minister Rajnath Singh had met Japanese Defence minister on Sunday in Thailand on the sidelines of the 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus). A release from the defence ministry on the meet said, "Both of them will meet again in New Delhi for the 2+2 meeting scheduled later this month. Both the leaders had a detailed discussion on adding further momentum to India-Japan defence cooperation." India and Japan have been increasing engagement, especially when it comes to the growing Indo Pacific concept. PM Modi has met Japanese PM Abe 2 times this year, first in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit and then in Vladivostok, Russia on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.

India-Japan to hold maiden 2+2 dialogue on November 30

Winter session begins today, will have 20 sittings between 18th Nov to 13th Dec. Today is the first day of the session. This time the government is preparing to introduce 27 new bills in the winter session of Parliament. Govt to push for Citizenship bill in the winter session of the Parliament.

Govt's focus in winter session of the Parliament: 'Citizenship Amendment Bill'

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the odd-even scheme was no longer required in the national capital as the skies have cleared up in the national capital, reported news agency ANI.

"There is no need of odd-even scheme now as the skies have cleared up," ANI reported Kejriwal as saying when asked a question in this regard at a press conference in Delhi.

In an attempt to reduce traffic congestion and tackle pollution, the odd-even scheme was introduced in the national capital from November 4 to 15.

The traffic rationing scheme prohibited plying of private vehicles based on the last digit of their registration numbers. Vehicles with even digits were only allowed to ply on even dates, and those with odd numbers on odd dates.

This was the third edition of the odd-even restrictions, a flagship scheme of the AAP government, on private vehicles in Delhi. The first two versions of the initiative were introduced in 2016.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the odd-even scheme was no longer required in the national capital as the skies have cleared up in the national capital, reported news agency ANI.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the odd-even scheme was no longer required in the national capital as the skies have cleared up in the national capital, reported news agency ANI. "There is no need of odd-even scheme now as the skies have cleared up," ANI reported Kejriwal as saying when asked a question in this regard at a press conference in Delhi. In an attempt to reduce traffic congestion and tackle pollution, the odd-even scheme was introduced in the national capital from November 4 to 15. The traffic rationing scheme prohibited plying of private vehicles based on the last digit of their registration numbers. Vehicles with even digits were only allowed to ply on even dates, and those with odd numbers on odd dates. This was the third edition of the odd-even restrictions, a flagship scheme of the AAP government, on private vehicles in Delhi. The first two versions of the initiative were introduced in 2016. (With inputs from ANI)

No need for odd-even scheme as Delhi skies have cleared up: Arvind Kejriwal 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-stage-sadak-bandh-throughout-telangana-on-november-19-262785">BJP </a>will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates.

"BJP will not contest the Mumbai Mayor's elections as it is in minority in Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and does not have the numbers. BJP does not want to have an alliance with any opposition party. In 2022, the party will have the numbers on its own," said BJP leader Ashish Shelar.

NCP Mumbai President Nawab Malik, on the other hand, said that the party will contest the Deputy Mayor's post and is most likely to support Shiv Sena for the Mayor's post. 
Meanwhile, Congress Mumbai president Eknath Gaikwad said that the party is prepared to field its candidate against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-will-be-from-shiv-sena-says-senior-ncp-leader-262295">Shiv Sena</a> and is waiting for a nod from the high-command in Delhi.

"We are in opposition in the BMC. We have sorted out 3-4 candidates, out of which one will file the nomination for the Mayor's post. We have enough time as the deadline for nomination is 6 pm today," Gaikwad added.

There are 27 municipal bodies, including Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Aurangabad, where Mayoral elections are due on November 22.

BMC has a total of 227 numbers of seats. While the Shiv Sena has 94 corporators, BJP, Congress and NCP have 83, 29 and eight, respectively

BJP will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates.

BJP will not contest the upcoming mayoral elections in Mumbai as they are in minority, whereas the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress are likely to field their candidates. "BJP will not contest the Mumbai Mayor's elections as it is in minority in Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and does not have the numbers. BJP does not want to have an alliance with any opposition party. In 2022, the party will have the numbers on its own," said BJP leader Ashish Shelar. NCP Mumbai President Nawab Malik, on the other hand, said that the party will contest the Deputy Mayor's post and is most likely to support Shiv Sena for the Mayor's post. Meanwhile, Congress Mumbai president Eknath Gaikwad said that the party is prepared to field its candidate against Shiv Sena and is waiting for a nod from the high-command in Delhi. "We are in opposition in the BMC. We have sorted out 3-4 candidates, out of which one will file the nomination for the Mayor's post. We have enough time as the deadline for nomination is 6 pm today," Gaikwad added. There are 27 municipal bodies, including Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Aurangabad, where Mayoral elections are due on November 22. BMC has a total of 227 numbers of seats. While the Shiv Sena has 94 corporators, BJP, Congress and NCP have 83, 29 and eight, respectively

BJP not to contest Mumbai Mayoral elections, Congress may field candidate against Shiv Sena

Today, Sharad Arvind Bobde took oath at Rashtrapati Bhavan and officially takes charge as the 47th Chief Justice of India succeeding CJI Ranjan Gogoi. Bobde will be serving as CJI for nearly 18 months from now. Watch this video to find out more in details.

Sharad Arvind Bobde officially takes charge as the 47th Chief Justice of India

The Strike Corps of the Indian Army began exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in Barmer on Saturday. 
 
As many as 40,000 jawans are taking part in the exercise. 
 
A statement from the Indian Army said, "The Strike Corps of Southern Army is conducting exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in the open deserts of Rajasthan to hone their combat skills for executing a swift, intense and deep strike in deserts and semi-developed terrain." 
 
"Approximately 40,000 troops, 700 'A' Vehicles and 300 Guns of Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Southern Command are undertaking a massive exercise in the deserts of Rajasthan showcasing their ability to undertake large scale offensive manoeuvres as part of an integrated air-land battle. 
 
The synergy of information and technology to attain battlefield transparency and situational awareness along with numerous other force multipliers are being exploited during the exercise," the statement said. 
 
It further said, "In this exercise, the newly inducted armed helicopter Rudra, equipped with electro-optical pods, helmet-mounted sights and night vision goggles is being integrated with the manoeuvres of the mechanised formations. The recently inducted 155 mm K9Vajra endowed with rapid mobility, quick deployment and high rates of accurate fire is also being op validated by integrating it with the operational manoeuvres of other mechanized elements." 
 
The various battle groups participating in the ongoing exercise have undergone extensive training for the past two months to validate their operational plans. 
 
"The operational readiness showcased by the mechanised battle groups of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps in a network-enabled environment using multiple, state of the art force multipliers, has reaffirmed the tremendous asymmetry enjoyed by the Indian Army in Southern theatre over its adversary," the statement added.

The Strike Corps of the Indian Army began exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in Barmer on Saturday. As many as 40,000 jawans are taking part in the exercise. A statement from the Indian Army said, "The Strike Corps of Southern Army is conducting exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in the open deserts of Rajasthan to hone their combat skills for executing a swift, intense and deep strike in deserts and semi-developed terrain.

The Strike Corps of the Indian Army began exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in Barmer on Saturday. As many as 40,000 jawans are taking part in the exercise. A statement from the Indian Army said, "The Strike Corps of Southern Army is conducting exercise 'Sindhu Sudarshan' in the open deserts of Rajasthan to hone their combat skills for executing a swift, intense and deep strike in deserts and semi-developed terrain." "Approximately 40,000 troops, 700 'A' Vehicles and 300 Guns of Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Southern Command are undertaking a massive exercise in the deserts of Rajasthan showcasing their ability to undertake large scale offensive manoeuvres as part of an integrated air-land battle. The synergy of information and technology to attain battlefield transparency and situational awareness along with numerous other force multipliers are being exploited during the exercise," the statement said. It further said, "In this exercise, the newly inducted armed helicopter Rudra, equipped with electro-optical pods, helmet-mounted sights and night vision goggles is being integrated with the manoeuvres of the mechanised formations. The recently inducted 155 mm K9Vajra endowed with rapid mobility, quick deployment and high rates of accurate fire is also being op validated by integrating it with the operational manoeuvres of other mechanized elements." The various battle groups participating in the ongoing exercise have undergone extensive training for the past two months to validate their operational plans. "The operational readiness showcased by the mechanised battle groups of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps in a network-enabled environment using multiple, state of the art force multipliers, has reaffirmed the tremendous asymmetry enjoyed by the Indian Army in Southern theatre over its adversary," the statement added.

Indian Army showcases its striking capabilities with wargame 'Sindhu Sudarshan'

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