Brendan Taylor overtakes Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s leading ODI run-scorer

Researchers name newly discovered Andean plant after Argentina legend Lionel Messi

Lawrence Bishnoi gang claims responsibility for firing at Tiger Shroff over ties to Salman Khan

Flying car race: Alef Aeronautics welcomes Tesla Roadster '11 years' later, but are the two models the same?

KATSEYE performs at Victoria’s Secret show, teases Sophia Laforteza’s return

Shastri backs Shami comeback; lauds Bhuvi and warns Bumrah on format workload ahead of World Cup

Saudi Arabia asks skyscraper employees to work from home amid Houthi threats

NFl 2026/27 - Saints vs Steelers to go ahead in Paris next week despite protest

4 killed, 19 critically injured in grass fire at Canada's largest military base

Ghaziabad is world's fastest-growing city; Surat, Patna, Rajkot also feature on list

Nobel laureate Machado, who dedicated prize to Trump, confirmed as Venezuela opposition leader

After Kennedy Center and reflecting pool disputes, Trump turns to Washington golf course plan amid legal battle

Why France looks the most fragile in the G7 amid protests and budget deadlock

Asian Para Games: Nishad Kumar clinches T47 long jump gold; Ravi Budigina bags swimming silver

China responds to Trump's Press Secretary Katie Zacharia after toilet remark: 'Visit China more often'

PCB omits Atherton, Hussain from tri-series commentary panel over Imran Khan interview row

Anthropic’s public benefit plan: What its 5% share commitment means for AI’s future

Girl 'dead' for 8 hours wakes up at her own funeral, dad insists she wasn't breathing

MI5 is opening an AI threat centre, and OpenAI just told MPs the worst isn't over

Elon Musk features on Lucknow's 'anti-India' Ravan poster alongside Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh

New OTT releases this week (October 19-25, 2026): Gajab Raat to Chaar Yaar-8 titles to watch during Dussehra week on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Kylie Jenner makes Victoria’s Secret debut in $50 million diamond-encrusted design as Timothée Chalamet cheers

Putin wants joint meeting with Trump-Xi summit on Ukraine war, proposes talks alongside APEC: Report

No Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans: Report

India moves to buy 10,000 more AI chips for a national compute pool open to startups

Tiger Shroff attacked by three gunmen in Mumbai, actor safe, two injured

Anirudh Ravichander-Kavya Maran wedding: Telangana CM reveals Chennai reception date

Tesla Roadster engineering: The hidden hardware behind its flying demonstration

Karan Johar reimagines Student Of The Year with thriller series After Dark, Shanaya Kapoor to debut on OTT

US to review Russia sanctions waiver within 60 days as Rubio cites India’s ‘substantial’ Russian energy imports

'Grassroots leagues help bridge the gap': India's ODI WC winner Suresh Raina lauds ISCL ahead of Season 2

'We feel like Mr India': Gujarat’s undercover SHE team guard garba nights at Navratri

Cattle-feed bran in biscuits, detergent in milk: FSSAI acts against 3 companies

'It's a joy to see the makers bring it on such a grand scale': SS Rajamouli on Ramayana

Priest dies after crucifix falls on his head during livestreamed Mass in Ecuador | VIDEO

Summarising The Unparalleled Legacy Of The Iron Man Of India On His 144th Birth Anniversary.

Gravitas: Remembering Sardar Patel: The man who defined Indian union

Delhi witnesses public health emergency as air quality dips to 'severe'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-floral-tribute-to-sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-at-statue-of-unity-258919">paid floral tribute</a> to India's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary. Addressing an event at Gujarat's Kevadia, PM Modi said that "Sardar Sahib always spoke about unity of purpose, unity of aim and unity of endeavour."

The prime minister stated that the 'Run for Unity' program is being held today across the country. "I thank every citizen for participating in this program. India is known for 'unity in diversity’; it is our pride and our identity," he said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kevadia: 'Run for Unity' program is being held in different cities &amp; villages across the country today. I thank every citizen for participating in this program. India is known for 'unity in diversity’; it is our pride and our identity. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a> <a href="https://t.co/jTKIUvM0LB">pic.twitter.com/jTKIUvM0LB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1189758830097260544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Speaking on the Ntaional Unity Day, PM Modi hailed his government's decision to abrogate Article 370 and said that the special provision was the reason behind separatism and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh officially become separate Union Territories today.

On the occasion, the prime minister said that "I am happy that from today all the government employees of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will be getting the benefits under the 7th Pay Commission as granted to the employees of other Union Territories".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PM: Article 370 only gave separatism &amp; terrorism to J&amp;K. It was the only place in the country where Article 370 was present, where in last 3 decades, over 40,000 people got killed&amp;several mothers lost their sons due to terrorism. Now this wall of Article 370 has been demolished. <a href="https://t.co/2sYvtAsCEO">pic.twitter.com/2sYvtAsCEO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1189766023907405834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Hailing the abrogation of Article 370, the prime minister said that the Article "only gave separatism and terrorism to J&amp;K".&nbsp;

"It was the only place in the country where Article 370 was present, where in last 3 decades, over 40,000 people got killed and several mothers lost their sons due to terrorism. Now this wall of Article 370 has been demolished".

"Those who can't win a war against us are challenging our unity. They try to break our unity and try to groom separatism. Our unity is being challenged. They forget that no one could defeat this unity," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid floral tribute to India's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid floral tribute to India's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary. Addressing an event at Gujarat's Kevadia, PM Modi said that "Sardar Sahib always spoke about unity of purpose, unity of aim and unity of endeavour." The prime minister stated that the 'Run for Unity' program is being held today across the country. "I thank every citizen for participating in this program. India is known for 'unity in diversity’; it is our pride and our identity," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kevadia: 'Run for Unity' program is being held in different cities & villages across the country today. I thank every citizen for participating in this program. India is known for 'unity in diversity’; it is our pride and our identity. #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/jTKIUvM0LB — ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2019 × Speaking on the Ntaional Unity Day, PM Modi hailed his government's decision to abrogate Article 370 and said that the special provision was the reason behind separatism and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh officially become separate Union Territories today. On the occasion, the prime minister said that "I am happy that from today all the government employees of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will be getting the benefits under the 7th Pay Commission as granted to the employees of other Union Territories". PM: Article 370 only gave separatism & terrorism to J&K. It was the only place in the country where Article 370 was present, where in last 3 decades, over 40,000 people got killed&several mothers lost their sons due to terrorism. Now this wall of Article 370 has been demolished. pic.twitter.com/2sYvtAsCEO — ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2019 × Hailing the abrogation of Article 370, the prime minister said that the Article "only gave separatism and terrorism to J&K". "It was the only place in the country where Article 370 was present, where in last 3 decades, over 40,000 people got killed and several mothers lost their sons due to terrorism. Now this wall of Article 370 has been demolished". "Those who can't win a war against us are challenging our unity. They try to break our unity and try to groom separatism. Our unity is being challenged. They forget that no one could defeat this unity," he said.

Article 370 only gave separatism and terrorism to Jammu and Kashmir: PM Modi 

Jammu & Kashmir And Ladakh Have Officially Become Union Territories.

Gravitas: A new dawn in J&K and Ladakh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday stressed on the need to free bureaucracy and its system from the negative image that has become a 'connotation' of sorts for it.

Exhorting the trainees to change the way they look at things, he said sometimes change in terminology also helps in changing the perspective.

"The tendency to keep the distance from the people and remaining in the comfort zone in air-conditioned chambers should be given up," PM Modi said.

Honest feedback should also be taken before policies decisions. Social media, even though could not be a reliable source of information, yet could be used for getting feed-backs and connecting with people.

"Let's change how we look at things. Even something like a changed terminology helps. Earlier, people would keep saying backward districts. Today we say - aspirational districts. Why should any posting be a punishment posting? Why not see it as an opportunity posting," he said.

While appreciating the commitment shown by the officer trainees and their new ideas, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the exposure provided by this unique training course on global best practices and technologies will prove to be beneficial in their careers ahead in policy-making and public administration.

He said that they should strive to remove silos and hierarchies in the system. "The presence of silos and hierarchy doesn't help our system. Whoever we are, wherever we are, we have to work together for the nation," the Prime Minister said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday stressed on the need to free bureaucracy and its system from the negative image that has become a 'connotation' of sorts for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday stressed on the need to free bureaucracy and its system from the negative image that has become a 'connotation' of sorts for it. Exhorting the trainees to change the way they look at things, he said sometimes change in terminology also helps in changing the perspective. "The tendency to keep the distance from the people and remaining in the comfort zone in air-conditioned chambers should be given up," PM Modi said. Honest feedback should also be taken before policies decisions. Social media, even though could not be a reliable source of information, yet could be used for getting feed-backs and connecting with people. "Let's change how we look at things. Even something like a changed terminology helps. Earlier, people would keep saying backward districts. Today we say - aspirational districts. Why should any posting be a punishment posting? Why not see it as an opportunity posting," he said. While appreciating the commitment shown by the officer trainees and their new ideas, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the exposure provided by this unique training course on global best practices and technologies will prove to be beneficial in their careers ahead in policy-making and public administration. He said that they should strive to remove silos and hierarchies in the system. "The presence of silos and hierarchy doesn't help our system. Whoever we are, wherever we are, we have to work together for the nation," the Prime Minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Work to free bureaucracy from negative image: PM tells trainee civil servants

Martin Sorrell, founder of WPP plc, the world's largest advertising and PR group has said that India's brand image is at an all-time high. Speaking to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Riyadh, Sorrell expressed confidence in the Indian economy adding that any fall in the growth is just a "fluctuation". Here's the trasncript of the interview.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in the world?

Sorrell: Growing. India's role in the world is developing, PM Modi has been at the FII. He has made his impact during his first term, he will make an impact in his second term, so I have been always being a raging bull in India and will continue to do so. My company, where I was, made a huge position in India, about 50 per cent of the ad industry, about 15000-16,000 people, have a very strong business. I have started a new business - S4 Capital- and will be doing something in India and have a tour in India with Google in November end and I have mentioned this because it is emblematic of what is happening in India, tremendous growth domestically.

WION: But reports suggest the Indian economy is not doing well, your thoughts?

Sorrell: It is never going to go up in a straight line, it will be a secular growth and there will be fluctuations in terms of the growth rate. In the long term, India will be the most populous country of the planet, with that comes issues, but if I look at the British point of view, Brexit, if we do come out, we have to pivot away from the EU on which we are dependent for trade to markets such as the US and Asia - China and India are two massive economies in Asia. It can't be a straight line upwards. It remains extremely bullish.

WION: How do you see the leadership of the Indian PM?

Sorrell: I think the brand image of India has strengthened considerably in the last 4-6 years, it has been mainly due to PM Modi and what he has done and what he will do. Obviously, everybody faces criticism, it will not be positive all the time. Like the growth rate, there will be fluctuations but the brand image of India is at an all-time high.&nbsp;

Martin Sorrell, founder of WPP plc, the world's largest advertising and PR group has said that India's brand image is at an all-time high. Speaking to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Riyadh, Sorrell expressed confidence in the Indian economy adding that any fall in the growth is just a "fluctuation".

Martin Sorrell, founder of WPP plc, the world's largest advertising and PR group has said that India's brand image is at an all-time high. Speaking to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Riyadh, Sorrell expressed confidence in the Indian economy adding that any fall in the growth is just a "fluctuation". Here's the trasncript of the interview. WION: How do you see India's role in the world? Sorrell: Growing. India's role in the world is developing, PM Modi has been at the FII. He has made his impact during his first term, he will make an impact in his second term, so I have been always being a raging bull in India and will continue to do so. My company, where I was, made a huge position in India, about 50 per cent of the ad industry, about 15000-16,000 people, have a very strong business. I have started a new business - S4 Capital- and will be doing something in India and have a tour in India with Google in November end and I have mentioned this because it is emblematic of what is happening in India, tremendous growth domestically. WION: But reports suggest the Indian economy is not doing well, your thoughts? Sorrell: It is never going to go up in a straight line, it will be a secular growth and there will be fluctuations in terms of the growth rate. In the long term, India will be the most populous country of the planet, with that comes issues, but if I look at the British point of view, Brexit, if we do come out, we have to pivot away from the EU on which we are dependent for trade to markets such as the US and Asia - China and India are two massive economies in Asia. It can't be a straight line upwards. It remains extremely bullish. WION: How do you see the leadership of the Indian PM? Sorrell: I think the brand image of India has strengthened considerably in the last 4-6 years, it has been mainly due to PM Modi and what he has done and what he will do. Obviously, everybody faces criticism, it will not be positive all the time. Like the growth rate, there will be fluctuations but the brand image of India is at an all-time high.

India's brand image at all-time high: Martin Sorrell, founder of world's largest advertisement company tells WION

'India, Saudi summit level meet in every 2 years' says Indian envoy to Saudi Arabia. Watch video to know more.

'India, Saudi summit level meet in every 2 years' says Indian envoy to Saudi Arabia

Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;event in Delhi to mark the birth anniversary of India's first deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

The 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;was flagged off from Dhyan Chand National Stadium here. Prior to the flag-off, President Ram Nath Kovind, Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal paid floral tributes&nbsp;to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary.

Various programmes are being organised across the country on the 144th birth anniversary of Patel today.

For the special occasion, Delhi Metro services also began early at 4 am today in order to facilitate people participating in the 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;event.

Later today, Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat's Kevadia.

Since 2014, October 31 is observed as National Unity Day and people from all walks of life participate in the Run for Unity.

Prime Minister Modi is also expected to participate at the Ekta Diwas Parade, visit the Technology Demonstration Site and later interact with Civil Service Probationers at Kevadia.In his 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had urged people to participate in large numbers in the 'Run for Unity'.

"Friends, as you know that October 31 every year since 2014 has been celebrated as 'National Unity Day'. This day imparts the message to protect the unity, integrity and security of our country at any cost. On October 31, this year too 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;is being organised like the previous years. 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;is a symbol of unison, that the nation being united, is moving in one direction and collectively aims for- One goal! Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat," he said.

The Prime Minister said that 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;is an event which is beneficial for the mind, body and soul.

"During 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;not only do we have to run, but in doing so the spirit of Fit India is also reflected. We also find ourselves connected with Ek Bharat- Shrestha Bharat! And so, not just our body, but our mind and value system get integrated with ushering unity in India to take India to loftier heights," he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the 'Run for Unity' event in Delhi to mark the birth anniversary of India's first deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the 'Run for Unity' event in Delhi to mark the birth anniversary of India's first deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The 'Run for Unity' was flagged off from Dhyan Chand National Stadium here. Prior to the flag-off, President Ram Nath Kovind, Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary. Various programmes are being organised across the country on the 144th birth anniversary of Patel today. For the special occasion, Delhi Metro services also began early at 4 am today in order to facilitate people participating in the 'Run for Unity' event. Later today, Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat's Kevadia. Since 2014, October 31 is observed as National Unity Day and people from all walks of life participate in the Run for Unity. Prime Minister Modi is also expected to participate at the Ekta Diwas Parade, visit the Technology Demonstration Site and later interact with Civil Service Probationers at Kevadia.In his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had urged people to participate in large numbers in the 'Run for Unity'. "Friends, as you know that October 31 every year since 2014 has been celebrated as 'National Unity Day'. This day imparts the message to protect the unity, integrity and security of our country at any cost. On October 31, this year too 'Run for Unity' is being organised like the previous years. 'Run for Unity' is a symbol of unison, that the nation being united, is moving in one direction and collectively aims for- One goal! Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat," he said. The Prime Minister said that 'Run for Unity' is an event which is beneficial for the mind, body and soul. "During 'Run for Unity' not only do we have to run, but in doing so the spirit of Fit India is also reflected. We also find ourselves connected with Ek Bharat- Shrestha Bharat! And so, not just our body, but our mind and value system get integrated with ushering unity in India to take India to loftier heights," he said.

Delhi: Home Minister Amit Shah flags off 'Run for Unity'

The Indian government has asked WhatsApp for an explanation on the snowballing snooping scandal.

The information technology ministry has asked for a detailed response from WhatsApp on the issue of Israeli spyware that allegedly targeted Indian journalists and human rights activists through its platform.

The ministry has written to the Facebook-owned messaging company, seeking its response on the matter.

Facebook owned-WhatsApp had earlier confirmed that Indian journalists and human rights activists were among those globally spied upon by Israeli spyware called Pegasus.

The journalists and activists are believed to have been targets of surveillance for two weeks until May when the national election was held.

The users were informed about the hacking spree just before Facebook sued the Israeli cybersecurity company NSO on Tuesday. WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has alleged that NSO had spread malware to around one thousand and four hundred users across twenty countries.

However, it did not say on whose behest the phones of journalists and activists across the world were targeted.

India's technology minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has put out a tweet explaining the govt position on the WhatsApp spyware attack controversy. The minister has said that WhatsApp has been asked to explain the nature of the breach and the steps being taken to protect the privacy of Indians using the social media platform.

He has gone on to say that there is a proper procedure &amp; protocols in place for an interception which needs sanction from senior-level authorities for clearly stated reasons for national interests.

Now, WhatsApp has been asked to submit a reply by November 4.

WhatsApp has over 1.5 billion users globally, of which India alone has accounted for about 400 million users.

The Indian government has asked WhatsApp for an explanation on the snowballing snooping scandal. The information technology ministry has asked for a detailed response from WhatsApp on the issue of Israeli spyware that allegedly targeted Indian journalists and human rights activists through its platform.

The Indian government has asked WhatsApp for an explanation on the snowballing snooping scandal. The information technology ministry has asked for a detailed response from WhatsApp on the issue of Israeli spyware that allegedly targeted Indian journalists and human rights activists through its platform. The ministry has written to the Facebook-owned messaging company, seeking its response on the matter. Facebook owned-WhatsApp had earlier confirmed that Indian journalists and human rights activists were among those globally spied upon by Israeli spyware called Pegasus. The journalists and activists are believed to have been targets of surveillance for two weeks until May when the national election was held. The users were informed about the hacking spree just before Facebook sued the Israeli cybersecurity company NSO on Tuesday. WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has alleged that NSO had spread malware to around one thousand and four hundred users across twenty countries. However, it did not say on whose behest the phones of journalists and activists across the world were targeted. India's technology minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has put out a tweet explaining the govt position on the WhatsApp spyware attack controversy. The minister has said that WhatsApp has been asked to explain the nature of the breach and the steps being taken to protect the privacy of Indians using the social media platform. He has gone on to say that there is a proper procedure & protocols in place for an interception which needs sanction from senior-level authorities for clearly stated reasons for national interests. Now, WhatsApp has been asked to submit a reply by November 4. WhatsApp has over 1.5 billion users globally, of which India alone has accounted for about 400 million users.

Government asks explanation from WhatsApp over Israeli Spyware Pegasus

Jammu and Kashmir will cease to be a state; One less state, two new UT's. Watch video to know more.

Jammu and Kashmir will cease to be a state; One less state, two new UT's

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to India`s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary.

"Tributes to the great Sardar Patel on his Jayanti. His contribution to our nation is monumental," he tweeted earlier in the day.

In October last year, Modi had inaugurated 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;on the occasion of Patel's 143rd birth anniversary.

He had announced to build the statue when he was Gujarat's Chief Minister.Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue which occupies over 20,000 square meters is the tallest statue in the world.Since 2014, October 31 is observed as National Unity Day and people from all walks of life participate in the Run for Unity.

In his 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had urged people to participate in large numbers in the 'Run for Unity'.

"Friends, as you know that October 31 every year since 2014 has been celebrated as 'National Unity Day'. This day imparts the message to protect the unity, integrity and security of our country at any cost. On October 31, this year too 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;is being organized like the previous years. 'Run for Unity'&nbsp;is a symbol of unison, that the nation being united, is moving in one direction and collectively aims for- One goal! Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat," he said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to India`s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to India`s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity on the occasion of his 144th birth anniversary. "Tributes to the great Sardar Patel on his Jayanti. His contribution to our nation is monumental," he tweeted earlier in the day. In October last year, Modi had inaugurated 'Statue of Unity' on the occasion of Patel's 143rd birth anniversary. He had announced to build the statue when he was Gujarat's Chief Minister.Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue which occupies over 20,000 square meters is the tallest statue in the world.Since 2014, October 31 is observed as National Unity Day and people from all walks of life participate in the Run for Unity. In his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had urged people to participate in large numbers in the 'Run for Unity'. "Friends, as you know that October 31 every year since 2014 has been celebrated as 'National Unity Day'. This day imparts the message to protect the unity, integrity and security of our country at any cost. On October 31, this year too 'Run for Unity' is being organized like the previous years. 'Run for Unity' is a symbol of unison, that the nation being united, is moving in one direction and collectively aims for- One goal! Ek Bharat, Shreshth Bharat," he said.

PM Modi pays floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Statue of Unity

Amidst deteriorating weather condition in the national capital, Delhi Government on Wednesday issued circular advising schools to ensure that no outdoor activities are organised.

"The present air quality condition in Delhi is a cause of concern for all. To ensure that students studying in schools of Delhi are not adversely affected due to the current air quality, all the heads of government, government-aided and unaided recognised schools under Directorate of Education are hereby directed to sensitise the parents of the students about the worrisome air quality situation prevailing in and across Delhi and further appeal them to restrain their children from undertaking outdoor activities till severe pollution condition persists," read a circular from the Directorate of Education - School Branch.

"Outdoor activities and exposure in the polluted atmosphere could have 'long term detrimental effects on the health of children'. Therefore, parents may be requested to adopt a preventive approach to safeguard their child's health including using the masks," it added.

The Directorate of Education has also advised all the heads of government, government-aided and unaided recognised schools under Directorate of Education to ensure that no outdoor activities are organised in schools till severe pollution condition persists.

Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad are again back to its annual encounter with the extreme air pollution post-Diwali.

At around 10 in the morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was docking at 423, which falls in the hazardous category, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).

The pollution level in the national capital is expected to rise in coming days.

On Wednesday evening, pollution went from severe to critical as air quality index showed 606 micrograms per cubic meter.According to Dr Arvind, a senior chest surgeon who has been dealing with pollution affected patients, Delhi's air is unfortunately not fit for breathing.

Living in this air is harmful in every respect and for any age group. Pregnant women, children and asthma patients are more vulnerable.

"In such a situation, apart from a normal situation that is itching in nose and eyes and soar throat problems, asthmatic patients suffer a lot. This year polluted air can lead to brain stroke and heart attack. Furthermore, pregnant women are more prone to be affected. The child in the womb gets ill. Also, this leads to a chronological effect on children's brain. Their brain development is capped that is it doesn't grow as it should," Arvind said.

Talking about the remedies and precautions, he said, "There is no way one can escape or save itself from this polluted air. When the air quality index goes beyond 600 only precautions or remedy is to stop breathing."

Tourist coming to Delhi are forced to buy masks in order to prevent themselves. One such tourist said that it's been one week when he came to Delhi. He didn't expect that air quality will be that worse.

"After coming to Delhi and breathing here I started feeling uneasiness and then my group went to buy a mask, now we explore daily in a mask," the tourist said.

A Bangladeshi tourist, Bablu said, "This is a beautiful country. We can see ample of trees here. Despite that, the pollution is very high. This should not be the case."&nbsp;

Amidst deteriorating weather condition in the national capital, Delhi Government on Wednesday issued circular advising schools to ensure that no outdoor activities are organised.

Amidst deteriorating weather condition in the national capital, Delhi Government on Wednesday issued circular advising schools to ensure that no outdoor activities are organised. "The present air quality condition in Delhi is a cause of concern for all. To ensure that students studying in schools of Delhi are not adversely affected due to the current air quality, all the heads of government, government-aided and unaided recognised schools under Directorate of Education are hereby directed to sensitise the parents of the students about the worrisome air quality situation prevailing in and across Delhi and further appeal them to restrain their children from undertaking outdoor activities till severe pollution condition persists," read a circular from the Directorate of Education - School Branch. "Outdoor activities and exposure in the polluted atmosphere could have 'long term detrimental effects on the health of children'. Therefore, parents may be requested to adopt a preventive approach to safeguard their child's health including using the masks," it added. The Directorate of Education has also advised all the heads of government, government-aided and unaided recognised schools under Directorate of Education to ensure that no outdoor activities are organised in schools till severe pollution condition persists. Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad are again back to its annual encounter with the extreme air pollution post-Diwali. At around 10 in the morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was docking at 423, which falls in the hazardous category, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). The pollution level in the national capital is expected to rise in coming days. On Wednesday evening, pollution went from severe to critical as air quality index showed 606 micrograms per cubic meter.According to Dr Arvind, a senior chest surgeon who has been dealing with pollution affected patients, Delhi's air is unfortunately not fit for breathing. Living in this air is harmful in every respect and for any age group. Pregnant women, children and asthma patients are more vulnerable. "In such a situation, apart from a normal situation that is itching in nose and eyes and soar throat problems, asthmatic patients suffer a lot. This year polluted air can lead to brain stroke and heart attack. Furthermore, pregnant women are more prone to be affected. The child in the womb gets ill. Also, this leads to a chronological effect on children's brain. Their brain development is capped that is it doesn't grow as it should," Arvind said. Talking about the remedies and precautions, he said, "There is no way one can escape or save itself from this polluted air. When the air quality index goes beyond 600 only precautions or remedy is to stop breathing." Tourist coming to Delhi are forced to buy masks in order to prevent themselves. One such tourist said that it's been one week when he came to Delhi. He didn't expect that air quality will be that worse. "After coming to Delhi and breathing here I started feeling uneasiness and then my group went to buy a mask, now we explore daily in a mask," the tourist said. A Bangladeshi tourist, Bablu said, "This is a beautiful country. We can see ample of trees here. Despite that, the pollution is very high. This should not be the case."

As air quality deteriorates, Delhi govt directs schools to refrain from organising outdoor activities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary.

Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary."

Amit Shah also paid tribute to the former prime minister while flagging off 'RunForUnity'&nbsp;marathon at Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

"Today, we pay tributes to former PM Indira Gandhi," he said.

Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984.

She was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence in Akbar Road on October 31, 1984.

This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi had ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter in the holy shrine.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary. Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary. Taking to Twitter, Modi tweeted, "A humble tribute to the former Prime Minister of the country, Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary." Amit Shah also paid tribute to the former prime minister while flagging off 'RunForUnity' marathon at Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. "Today, we pay tributes to former PM Indira Gandhi," he said. Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence in Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi had ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter in the holy shrine.

PM Modi, Shah pay homage to Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that Article 370 and 35A were a gateway to terrorism in the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by repealing those provisions has shut that entrance.

"PM Modi fulfilled Sardar Patel's dream. By repealing Article 370 and Article 35A, PM Modi united Jammu Kashmir with India forever. I want to tell you again that Article 370 and 35 A were a gateway to terrorism in the country...PM Modi has shut that gate," the Home Minister said before flagging off the "Run for Unity" programme.

Paying tributes to the first Home Minister of the country, Sardar Patel on his birth anniversary, Shah said, "Sardar Patel merged over 500 princely states to form a united India but one thing was lacking -- Jammu Kashmir. Though it was merged with India, it remained a problem for us due to Article 370 and Article 35A. For 70 years, nobody found it appropriate to touch it. August 5 is the day when the Parliament of India removed Article 370 and Article 35 A and fulfilled the unfulfilled dream of Sardar Patel."

Shah also claimed that Sardar Patel did not get due recognition even after several years of independence and credited PM Modi for taking steps which gave due recognition to the former Home Minister.

The Home Minister credited Sardar Patel and noted that Mahatma Gandhi also acknowledged the complex tasks done by him.

"When all work was done, Mahatma Gandhi wrote a letter to Sardar Patel -- the problem of princely states was so complex, so big that except for you, no one else could have done that work. By merging all these princely states, you have done the greatest service to India," Shah said. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that Article 370 and 35A were a gateway to terrorism in the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by repealing those provisions has shut that entrance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that Article 370 and 35A were a gateway to terrorism in the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi by repealing those provisions has shut that entrance. "PM Modi fulfilled Sardar Patel's dream. By repealing Article 370 and Article 35A, PM Modi united Jammu Kashmir with India forever. I want to tell you again that Article 370 and 35 A were a gateway to terrorism in the country...PM Modi has shut that gate," the Home Minister said before flagging off the "Run for Unity" programme. Paying tributes to the first Home Minister of the country, Sardar Patel on his birth anniversary, Shah said, "Sardar Patel merged over 500 princely states to form a united India but one thing was lacking -- Jammu Kashmir. Though it was merged with India, it remained a problem for us due to Article 370 and Article 35A. For 70 years, nobody found it appropriate to touch it. August 5 is the day when the Parliament of India removed Article 370 and Article 35 A and fulfilled the unfulfilled dream of Sardar Patel." Shah also claimed that Sardar Patel did not get due recognition even after several years of independence and credited PM Modi for taking steps which gave due recognition to the former Home Minister. The Home Minister credited Sardar Patel and noted that Mahatma Gandhi also acknowledged the complex tasks done by him. "When all work was done, Mahatma Gandhi wrote a letter to Sardar Patel -- the problem of princely states was so complex, so big that except for you, no one else could have done that work. By merging all these princely states, you have done the greatest service to India," Shah said.

Article 370, 35A were gateway to terrorism in the country: Amit Shah

RK Mathur was sworn in as first lieutenant governor of Union Territory of Ladakh on Thursday.

Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh come into existence

Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department.&nbsp;

The IMD predicts that it is very likely to move northwestwards and thereafter move west-northwestwards, while rainfall is to occur over coastal Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Tamil Nadu. It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm over the east-central Arabian Sea.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Balachandran, Director, South Zone Head of IMD said, “Over the last 24 hours 33 places across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry received heavy rain whereas four places received very heavy rainfall. For the next 24 hours, there would be heavy rainfall across the Southern coastal districts and districts adjoining the western ghats. Other regions of the state and Puducherry would receive moderate rainfall.”

Fishermen have also been instructed to not venture towards Maldives, Lakshadweep, Kerala for the next 24 hours.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Revenue Minister R B Udhayakumar said, “we have three IAS officers deputed to monitor the situation across 32 districts and 12 boats from Kanyakumari, Tuticorin that are fishing in the high seas have been asked to return. People living in low-lying areas have been instructed to move to higher ground and SDRF teams are on standby as a precaution against landslides. Adequate measures are being taken to provide pumps for places where waterlogging is likely.”

While Cyclone 'Maha' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Arabian sea, there is a possibility of a depression forming in the Bay of Bengal by early next week. “Between November 4th and 5th a low pressure is likely to form in the West Andaman coast and is likely to move northwestwards and form as a depression”, Balachandran added.

Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department.

Severe Cyclonic storm ‘Maha’ over Lakshadweep and adjoining southeast the Arabian Sea moved further north-northwestwards and lay centred over the east-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area about 90 km north-northeast of Aminidivi (Lakshadweep), according to the Indian Meteorological Department. The IMD predicts that it is very likely to move northwestwards and thereafter move west-northwestwards, while rainfall is to occur over coastal Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Tamil Nadu. It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm over the east-central Arabian Sea. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Balachandran, Director, South Zone Head of IMD said, “Over the last 24 hours 33 places across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry received heavy rain whereas four places received very heavy rainfall. For the next 24 hours, there would be heavy rainfall across the Southern coastal districts and districts adjoining the western ghats. Other regions of the state and Puducherry would receive moderate rainfall.” Fishermen have also been instructed to not venture towards Maldives, Lakshadweep, Kerala for the next 24 hours. Tamil Nadu’s Revenue Minister R B Udhayakumar said, “we have three IAS officers deputed to monitor the situation across 32 districts and 12 boats from Kanyakumari, Tuticorin that are fishing in the high seas have been asked to return. People living in low-lying areas have been instructed to move to higher ground and SDRF teams are on standby as a precaution against landslides. Adequate measures are being taken to provide pumps for places where waterlogging is likely.” While Cyclone 'Maha' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Arabian sea, there is a possibility of a depression forming in the Bay of Bengal by early next week. “Between November 4th and 5th a low pressure is likely to form in the West Andaman coast and is likely to move northwestwards and form as a depression”, Balachandran added.

Cyclone 'Maha' centred near Lakshadweep; depression likely to form near Andaman by November 4

The Indian govt has slammed china for calling the formation on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories as unlawful and void.

The foreign ministry of India has asked China to respect the sovereignty of India the same way India does.&nbsp;

The spokesperson of external affairs ministry also said that India does not expect china or other countries to comment on the matters that are internal to India.

Addressing the media, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We expect other countries to respect India's sovereignty&amp;territorial integrity. China continues to be in occupation of a large tract of the area in UTs of J-K,&amp; Ladakh. It has illegally acquired Indian territories from PoK under so-called China-Pakistan boundary agreement of 1963".

Nearly three months after the Indian government scrapped article 370.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir has been officially split into two union territories Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The two new union territories have come into existence from midnight. On the 144th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh-Bhai Patel. The decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir was announced on August 5.

Jammu and Kashmir has also got its first Lieutenant-Governor Girish Chandra Murmu.

He is a 1985 batch IAS officer of Gujarat cadre and was principal secretary of Narendra Modi during his tenure as the chief minister of the state.

Former defence secretary Radha Krishna Mathur has taken charge as the lieutenant governor of Ladakh.

With the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir, the number of states in India has come down to 28 and the number of Union Territories has gone up to nine.

While Jammu and Kashmir will continue to have a legislation like Puducherry. Ladakh will be without legislative assembly just like Chandigarh.

The centre will be in direct control of the police and law and order in J&amp;K. While the land will be under the elected government there. Ladakh will be under the direct control of the central government which will be run through the Lieutenant Governor.

The Indian govt has slammed china for calling the formation on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories as unlawful and void. The foreign ministry of India has asked China to respect the sovereignty of India the same way India does.

The Indian govt has slammed china for calling the formation on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories as unlawful and void. The foreign ministry of India has asked China to respect the sovereignty of India the same way India does. The spokesperson of external affairs ministry also said that India does not expect china or other countries to comment on the matters that are internal to India. Addressing the media, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We expect other countries to respect India's sovereignty&territorial integrity. China continues to be in occupation of a large tract of the area in UTs of J-K,& Ladakh. It has illegally acquired Indian territories from PoK under so-called China-Pakistan boundary agreement of 1963". Nearly three months after the Indian government scrapped article 370. Jammu and Kashmir has been officially split into two union territories Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The two new union territories have come into existence from midnight. On the 144th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh-Bhai Patel. The decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir was announced on August 5. Jammu and Kashmir has also got its first Lieutenant-Governor Girish Chandra Murmu. He is a 1985 batch IAS officer of Gujarat cadre and was principal secretary of Narendra Modi during his tenure as the chief minister of the state. Former defence secretary Radha Krishna Mathur has taken charge as the lieutenant governor of Ladakh. With the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir, the number of states in India has come down to 28 and the number of Union Territories has gone up to nine. While Jammu and Kashmir will continue to have a legislation like Puducherry. Ladakh will be without legislative assembly just like Chandigarh. The centre will be in direct control of the police and law and order in J&K. While the land will be under the elected government there. Ladakh will be under the direct control of the central government which will be run through the Lieutenant Governor.

India slams China for calling formation of J&K and Ladakh Union Territories 'unlawful, void'

Speaking to WION in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that the Department of Personnel and Training(DOPT) is working on a concept note to provide a separate cadre for the state of Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

The DOPT is being headed by Jitendra Singh. This story was first reported by WION when Pema Kahndu had made the demand <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-time-zones-for-india-arunachal-pradesh-cm-pema-khandu-agrees-16728">for a separate cadre </a>for the state. Pema Kahndu told WION that the absence of a permanent cadre leads to a lack of institutional memory which adversely affects developmental activity as officers get transferred out within two or three years.&nbsp;

“Arunachal Pradesh is very diverse. There are 28 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes with many languages and hundreds of dialects. Sometimes even I take time to comprehend issues. Then how do you expect a bureaucrat to understand everything in two to three years,” Chief Minister Pema Khandu felt.

This is one of the few steps that this remote state of the Indian Union is taking to integrate into the national mainstream. For years, it was treated as a buffer state. Its isolation was a security necessity. Today a lot of development is taking place in Arunachal Pradesh which surprises many people. The state seems to be making its presence felt in various sectors, but two prominent sectors are tourism and roads.

&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh has more tourist festivals than any other state in the country. The state successfully organizes five major tourist festivals a year. They are the Tawang festival, Orange festival, Zero festival, Bascon festival and adventure at Mechuka. Through these festivals, outsiders can taste authentic eastern food and even the local brew called Chang. Interestingly, Tawang is not only a music festival but also allows tourists to sample their village life. Apart from the stunning natural view, it is also a gastronomic delight.

<img alt="Arunachal Pradesh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5aede75-1d27-4a77-b959-4e83148ce849" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_11.jpg" />

Tawang is located at the height of 3,000 metres&nbsp;with nearly 40,000 people who visit the festival which has acquired an iconic status. It's remoteness and rich Buddhist history makes it a big draw with both domestic and international tourists. Apart from this, the new Bom la pass is another added attraction. But this town also comes with its irony.

The town of Tawang does not have a sewer system whereas the whole town area is a litter free zone and smoking in public places is prohibited. It is cleaner than most of the tourist hotspots in the Himalayas which struggles to cope with the plastic menace. Chief Minister Pema Khandu says that he started these festivals when he was the tourism minister to promote easy tourism for multiple audiences.&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh for all its life had a unique road system. However, the state was not internally connected. One had to come back to Assam to go to other parts of Arunachal Pradesh. The 1962 debacle further cemented the attitude. The idea was to thwart a Chinese invasion mountain by mountain by not allowing them easy access to any part of the state. This is changing slowly.

Arunachal Pradesh is trying to complete a trans-Arunachal project which is 1,700 km long and connects the state internally. Jitendra Narain, Resident Principal Commissioner of AP in Delhi said, "We are trying to tie up with the issue of delay because the terrain is very difficult and is prone to being washed away. There is a stretch of 300 km which we are working upon,"&nbsp;he said.

The Frontier Highway Project and East-West Industrial Corridor are also in the pipeline. These projects would undo years of keeping Arunachal Pradesh as a buffer. The projects will not undo the problem immediately but will mitigate travel hardship which the people of the state undergo.

The case is an example of the desire to connect Tawang with an airport and a railway line. A road trip from Guwahati to Tawang can be anywhere between 14 to 16 hours. Another option is a helicopter which is entirely dependent on weather. A rail track can change everything.

The survey is expected to end by 2020 but the track would have 35 tunnels and one tunnel could be as long as 28 km long. Similarly, a patch of land is also being surveyed for an airport in Tawang. &nbsp;The state is also opening up to various foreign countries. The US government with UC Berkeley&nbsp;is working in 70 villages in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

“The idea is to create smart villages and ensure niche market for unique products like textiles. Very soon these products will enter the market,” says Pema Khandu.

There are pending issues also. Bhutan operates&nbsp;half-hour earlier than the Indian Standard Time(IST) but Arunachal Pradesh which is further east to Bhutan works&nbsp;on IST. It leads to wastage of precious daylight time which countries across the world exploit to up their efficiency levels and reduce electricity costs.

Speaking to WION in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that the Department of Personnel and Training(DOPT) is working on a concept note to provide a separate cadre for the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Speaking to WION in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that the Department of Personnel and Training(DOPT) is working on a concept note to provide a separate cadre for the state of Arunachal Pradesh. The DOPT is being headed by Jitendra Singh. This story was first reported by WION when Pema Kahndu had made the demand for a separate cadre for the state. Pema Kahndu told WION that the absence of a permanent cadre leads to a lack of institutional memory which adversely affects developmental activity as officers get transferred out within two or three years. “Arunachal Pradesh is very diverse. There are 28 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes with many languages and hundreds of dialects. Sometimes even I take time to comprehend issues. Then how do you expect a bureaucrat to understand everything in two to three years,” Chief Minister Pema Khandu felt. This is one of the few steps that this remote state of the Indian Union is taking to integrate into the national mainstream. For years, it was treated as a buffer state. Its isolation was a security necessity. Today a lot of development is taking place in Arunachal Pradesh which surprises many people. The state seems to be making its presence felt in various sectors, but two prominent sectors are tourism and roads. Arunachal Pradesh has more tourist festivals than any other state in the country. The state successfully organizes five major tourist festivals a year. They are the Tawang festival, Orange festival, Zero festival, Bascon festival and adventure at Mechuka. Through these festivals, outsiders can taste authentic eastern food and even the local brew called Chang. Interestingly, Tawang is not only a music festival but also allows tourists to sample their village life. Apart from the stunning natural view, it is also a gastronomic delight. Tawang is located at the height of 3,000 metres with nearly 40,000 people who visit the festival which has acquired an iconic status. It's remoteness and rich Buddhist history makes it a big draw with both domestic and international tourists. Apart from this, the new Bom la pass is another added attraction. But this town also comes with its irony. The town of Tawang does not have a sewer system whereas the whole town area is a litter free zone and smoking in public places is prohibited. It is cleaner than most of the tourist hotspots in the Himalayas which struggles to cope with the plastic menace. Chief Minister Pema Khandu says that he started these festivals when he was the tourism minister to promote easy tourism for multiple audiences. Arunachal Pradesh for all its life had a unique road system. However, the state was not internally connected. One had to come back to Assam to go to other parts of Arunachal Pradesh. The 1962 debacle further cemented the attitude. The idea was to thwart a Chinese invasion mountain by mountain by not allowing them easy access to any part of the state. This is changing slowly. Arunachal Pradesh is trying to complete a trans-Arunachal project which is 1,700 km long and connects the state internally. Jitendra Narain, Resident Principal Commissioner of AP in Delhi said, "We are trying to tie up with the issue of delay because the terrain is very difficult and is prone to being washed away. There is a stretch of 300 km which we are working upon," he said. The Frontier Highway Project and East-West Industrial Corridor are also in the pipeline. These projects would undo years of keeping Arunachal Pradesh as a buffer. The projects will not undo the problem immediately but will mitigate travel hardship which the people of the state undergo. The case is an example of the desire to connect Tawang with an airport and a railway line. A road trip from Guwahati to Tawang can be anywhere between 14 to 16 hours. Another option is a helicopter which is entirely dependent on weather. A rail track can change everything. The survey is expected to end by 2020 but the track would have 35 tunnels and one tunnel could be as long as 28 km long. Similarly, a patch of land is also being surveyed for an airport in Tawang. The state is also opening up to various foreign countries. The US government with UC Berkeley is working in 70 villages in Arunachal Pradesh. “The idea is to create smart villages and ensure niche market for unique products like textiles. Very soon these products will enter the market,” says Pema Khandu. There are pending issues also. Bhutan operates half-hour earlier than the Indian Standard Time(IST) but Arunachal Pradesh which is further east to Bhutan works on IST. It leads to wastage of precious daylight time which countries across the world exploit to up their efficiency levels and reduce electricity costs.

Opening up of Arunachal Pradesh

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'.

Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary.

"Recently, a historic decision was taken by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha with the abrogation of Article 370. Pleased to announce that both Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have come into being as Union Territories from today, which is a start to a new chapter," he said while addressing students of different schools.

With the J-K Reorganisation Act coming into effect today, on the same day as Patel's birth anniversary, the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been officially bifurcated into two Union territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

RK Mathur and GC Murmu were sworn as Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, respectively.

It is for the first time that a state has been bifurcated into Union Territories. Now, India has nine Union Territories.

Recalling the rich contributions made by Patel in unifying 565 princely states, he said "Sardar Patel convinced and brought all states together. He taught us unity."

"Earlier Statue of Liberty in America was the tallest statue of the world, today we can say proudly that we have the Statue of Unity which is the tallest in the world," he added urging students to visit the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'. Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'. Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary. "Recently, a historic decision was taken by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha with the abrogation of Article 370. Pleased to announce that both Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have come into being as Union Territories from today, which is a start to a new chapter," he said while addressing students of different schools. With the J-K Reorganisation Act coming into effect today, on the same day as Patel's birth anniversary, the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been officially bifurcated into two Union territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. RK Mathur and GC Murmu were sworn as Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, respectively. It is for the first time that a state has been bifurcated into Union Territories. Now, India has nine Union Territories. Recalling the rich contributions made by Patel in unifying 565 princely states, he said "Sardar Patel convinced and brought all states together. He taught us unity." "Earlier Statue of Liberty in America was the tallest statue of the world, today we can say proudly that we have the Statue of Unity which is the tallest in the world," he added urging students to visit the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Formation of J&K, Ladakh UTs a start to 'new chapter': Prakash Javadekar

The National Investigation Agency conducted searches across six locations spread across five districts in Tamil Nadu in connection with a 2018 criminal conspiracy that intended to spread terror in the State by targeting Hindu religious leaders and causing communal disharmony.

The early morning searches were carried out at two locations in Coimbatore City, besides one location each in Sivaganga, Tiruchirapalli, Nagapattinam and Toothukudi districts.&nbsp;

According to an NIA Statement, the case pertains to the criminal conspiracy hatched by 6 charge-sheeted accused persons and their associates, with the intention of furthering the objectives of ISIS/ Daish by targeting certain Hindu activists in Coimbatore.&nbsp;

The statement read, “accused persons arrested by Tamil Nadu Police in this case in September 2018 and charge-sheeted by NIA in February 2019 had conducted preparations, including reconnaissance of targets, for launching such attacks, which would have caused communal disharmony and terror in the State. The investigation has revealed that the charge-sheeted accused persons and their associates were radicalized on the violent extremist ideology of ISIS/ Daish by following the speeches and videos of the Sri Lankan IS/ Daesh leader Zahran Hashim, over social media platforms”.

Today’s searches were conducted at the residences of the associates of individuals who were charge-sheeted earlier.

The agency has seized two laptops, eight mobile phones, five SIM cards, an SD card and 14 documents, which would be subjected to forensic examination. The persons searched are being questioned to ascertain their association with the charge-sheeted accused persons besides any role in this crime.

The National Investigation Agency conducted searches across six locations spread across five districts in Tamil Nadu in connection with a 2018 criminal conspiracy that intended to spread terror in the State by targeting Hindu religious leaders and causing communal disharmony.

The National Investigation Agency conducted searches across six locations spread across five districts in Tamil Nadu in connection with a 2018 criminal conspiracy that intended to spread terror in the State by targeting Hindu religious leaders and causing communal disharmony. The early morning searches were carried out at two locations in Coimbatore City, besides one location each in Sivaganga, Tiruchirapalli, Nagapattinam and Toothukudi districts. According to an NIA Statement, the case pertains to the criminal conspiracy hatched by 6 charge-sheeted accused persons and their associates, with the intention of furthering the objectives of ISIS/ Daish by targeting certain Hindu activists in Coimbatore. The statement read, “accused persons arrested by Tamil Nadu Police in this case in September 2018 and charge-sheeted by NIA in February 2019 had conducted preparations, including reconnaissance of targets, for launching such attacks, which would have caused communal disharmony and terror in the State. The investigation has revealed that the charge-sheeted accused persons and their associates were radicalized on the violent extremist ideology of ISIS/ Daish by following the speeches and videos of the Sri Lankan IS/ Daesh leader Zahran Hashim, over social media platforms”. Today’s searches were conducted at the residences of the associates of individuals who were charge-sheeted earlier. The agency has seized two laptops, eight mobile phones, five SIM cards, an SD card and 14 documents, which would be subjected to forensic examination. The persons searched are being questioned to ascertain their association with the charge-sheeted accused persons besides any role in this crime.

NIA searches six locations across Tamil Nadu in crackdown on ISIS module; associates of individuals arrested in 2018 under scanner

The domestic stock market indices zoomed to a fresh record high on Thursday but later receded in the afternoon trade.

While Sensex closed 77 points higher at 40,129, Nifty ended 33.35 points higher to close at 11,877.45.&nbsp;

Sectorally, financial services, metal and private banking stocks closed in the bearish zone, while media and PSU banking scrips closed at a hike of over 3%, followed by over 1% in realty and IT stocks.

Among stocks, private sector lender Yes Bank was the winner of the day after the announcement that it has received a binding offer of 1.2 billion dollars from a global investor.&nbsp;

The stock closed with gains of 23.77 per cent at Rs 70.30 per share. Public sector State Bank of India too showed handsome gains of 7.8 per cent to close at Rs 312.50 per cent. The other prominent gainers were Grasim, Infosys, Bharti Infratel, Tata Motors, GAIL and Wipro.

However, metal stocks showed de-growth with JSW Steel declining by 2.8 per cent and Tata Steel by 2 per cent. Axis Bank, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank too were in the red along with Tech Mahindra, Vedanta and Reliance Industries.

Meanwhile, Asian shares and US stock futures edged higher after the Fed cut interest rates to keep the economic expansion on track. However, the Fed hinted that there will be no further cuts unless deemed necessary.

Japan's Nikkei moved up by 0.37 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index by 0.9 per cent and South Korea`s Kospi by 0.15 per cent. But the Shanghai Composite index slipped by 0.35 per cent as data showed that factory activity in China shrank for the sixth straight month in October.

(With inputs from ANI)

The domestic stock market indices zoomed to a fresh record high on Thursday but later receded in the afternoon trade. While Sensex closed 77 points higher at 40,129, Nifty ended 33.

The domestic stock market indices zoomed to a fresh record high on Thursday but later receded in the afternoon trade. While Sensex closed 77 points higher at 40,129, Nifty ended 33.35 points higher to close at 11,877.45. Sectorally, financial services, metal and private banking stocks closed in the bearish zone, while media and PSU banking scrips closed at a hike of over 3%, followed by over 1% in realty and IT stocks. Among stocks, private sector lender Yes Bank was the winner of the day after the announcement that it has received a binding offer of 1.2 billion dollars from a global investor. The stock closed with gains of 23.77 per cent at Rs 70.30 per share. Public sector State Bank of India too showed handsome gains of 7.8 per cent to close at Rs 312.50 per cent. The other prominent gainers were Grasim, Infosys, Bharti Infratel, Tata Motors, GAIL and Wipro. However, metal stocks showed de-growth with JSW Steel declining by 2.8 per cent and Tata Steel by 2 per cent. Axis Bank, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank too were in the red along with Tech Mahindra, Vedanta and Reliance Industries. Meanwhile, Asian shares and US stock futures edged higher after the Fed cut interest rates to keep the economic expansion on track. However, the Fed hinted that there will be no further cuts unless deemed necessary. Japan's Nikkei moved up by 0.37 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index by 0.9 per cent and South Korea`s Kospi by 0.15 per cent. But the Shanghai Composite index slipped by 0.35 per cent as data showed that factory activity in China shrank for the sixth straight month in October. (With inputs from ANI)

Sensex ends at an all-time high, Nifty closes at 11,877.45

With the revelry of Diwali festival, also comes the worry of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-did-nothing-to-tackle-pollution-only-puts-up-ads-gautam-gambhir-258297">air pollution</a> in India. Despite court intervention and tireless activism, firecrackers continue to worsen the air quality in the country.&nbsp;

Ambee, an environment start-up in Bengaluru provides real-time hyperlocal air quality data from close to 500 sensors across the country. With 100 sensors in Bengaluru alone, the start-up found that the IT-city saw its air quality worsen six times the normal level during the festival weekend.&nbsp;

''[In Bengaluru] From a 20-30AQI [in 2012], it is now ranging at 80-120AQI, that is four times worse mainly due to urban traffic. We started observing an increase in pollution a week or two before Diwali with the increase in the number of trucks coming into the city. So, we were already at a 100-110AQI in various parts of Bengaluru. Then during Diwali, we had projected an AQI of 300-350 in certain parts of the city and we saw it rise to almost 400AQI. Particulate matter itself was ranging at 250-350 in some areas. When you burn crackers it is not just particulate matter, but you are also generating nitrogen dioxide which directly correlates with sulphur dioxide, all of this has contributed in the substantial increase in numbers'', says Madhusudan, Co-founder, Ambee. &nbsp;

Despite the spike, Bengaluru was also one of the Indian cities that fared better than others. While the data saw Bengaluru's AQI jump to 245 from 80 in 2 days and 2.5 levels jump from 76 to 2015, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-levels-in-new-delhi-hit-the-worst-this-year-258104">the national capital was the worst hit</a>. In Delhi, the already severe air quality at 220 AQI worsened to 390 on October 27 and saw the PM 2.5 levels almost double to 334. In Mumbai, the air quality index went from 105 to 250 and PM2.5 levels rose from 96 to 243. In Hyderabad, the Avg AQI rose to 280 and PM2.5 levels also multiplied three times to 224.5 in the festival weekend.

''A 10 point increase in particulate matter is approximately equivalent to one cigarette. Now picture a city going from 20 to 200, and that air being taken in by a 5-year-old child. That is how bad it can actually get. It might be a one-time exposure during this period, we have found that it does not get better and people are exposed to very poor air quality'', says Jaideep Singh, Co-founder, Ambee

In October 2018 the Supreme Court had banned the use of firecrackers that contained mercury, arsenic and barium. But over a year later firecracker sellers in Bengaluru were unaware of what green crackers were.&nbsp;

''Living in Delhi reduces a person's life expectancy by 9 years. You don't have to be a smoker, you don't have to do anything, you just have to live in Delhi and you will live for nine years lesser. This is not improving anywhere else in the world. My co-founder Madhusudan built the first device to save his son. This is what prompted us to start building the company. We need to know what kind of air we are breathing. We are very particular about the kind of food or water that we consume, but we take the air for granted. That is something that needs to change'', says Jaideep Singh.

With the revelry of Diwali festival, also comes the worry of air pollution in India. Despite court intervention and tireless activism, firecrackers continue to worsen the air quality in the country.

With the revelry of Diwali festival, also comes the worry of air pollution in India. Despite court intervention and tireless activism, firecrackers continue to worsen the air quality in the country. Ambee, an environment start-up in Bengaluru provides real-time hyperlocal air quality data from close to 500 sensors across the country. With 100 sensors in Bengaluru alone, the start-up found that the IT-city saw its air quality worsen six times the normal level during the festival weekend. ''[In Bengaluru] From a 20-30AQI [in 2012], it is now ranging at 80-120AQI, that is four times worse mainly due to urban traffic. We started observing an increase in pollution a week or two before Diwali with the increase in the number of trucks coming into the city. So, we were already at a 100-110AQI in various parts of Bengaluru. Then during Diwali, we had projected an AQI of 300-350 in certain parts of the city and we saw it rise to almost 400AQI. Particulate matter itself was ranging at 250-350 in some areas. When you burn crackers it is not just particulate matter, but you are also generating nitrogen dioxide which directly correlates with sulphur dioxide, all of this has contributed in the substantial increase in numbers'', says Madhusudan, Co-founder, Ambee. Despite the spike, Bengaluru was also one of the Indian cities that fared better than others. While the data saw Bengaluru's AQI jump to 245 from 80 in 2 days and 2.5 levels jump from 76 to 2015, the national capital was the worst hit. In Delhi, the already severe air quality at 220 AQI worsened to 390 on October 27 and saw the PM 2.5 levels almost double to 334. In Mumbai, the air quality index went from 105 to 250 and PM2.5 levels rose from 96 to 243. In Hyderabad, the Avg AQI rose to 280 and PM2.5 levels also multiplied three times to 224.5 in the festival weekend. ''A 10 point increase in particulate matter is approximately equivalent to one cigarette. Now picture a city going from 20 to 200, and that air being taken in by a 5-year-old child. That is how bad it can actually get. It might be a one-time exposure during this period, we have found that it does not get better and people are exposed to very poor air quality'', says Jaideep Singh, Co-founder, Ambee In October 2018 the Supreme Court had banned the use of firecrackers that contained mercury, arsenic and barium. But over a year later firecracker sellers in Bengaluru were unaware of what green crackers were. ''Living in Delhi reduces a person's life expectancy by 9 years. You don't have to be a smoker, you don't have to do anything, you just have to live in Delhi and you will live for nine years lesser. This is not improving anywhere else in the world. My co-founder Madhusudan built the first device to save his son. This is what prompted us to start building the company. We need to know what kind of air we are breathing. We are very particular about the kind of food or water that we consume, but we take the air for granted. That is something that needs to change'', says Jaideep Singh.

Air quality dips in four major Indian cities during Diwali: Environment startup

Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) to review preparations for the cyclone over the Comorin and adjoining Lakshadweep Islands.

Cabinet Secretary took stock of the current situation and preparedness for rescue and relief operations and directed that immediate assistance, as required, be provided.

"IMD informed that the Depression that had developed in the Comorin Sea, has now intensified into a Cyclonic storm. It is likely to cross Lakshadweep Islands by noon of October 31, 2019, as a Severe Cyclonic Storm and emerge thereafter into the East Central Arabian Sea.&nbsp;Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, accompanied by winds reaching upto 90 to 100 kmph and tidal waves up to 1 metre, are expected," Union government said in a press statement.

The government said that it was intimated by the Lakshadweep Administration that all necessary preparations have been made by them and fishermen have been recalled to the shore.

People living in the low lying areas have been evacuated to shelter homes and are being provided with food and water. Teams of Coast Guard and Indian Navy are on the standby for any eventuality.

Senior officials of the Ministries of Home, Defence, as well as those from IMD and NDRF, attended the meeting. Senior officers from the UT Administration participated in the meeting through Video Conference.&nbsp;

Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) to review preparations for the cyclone over the Comorin and adjoining Lakshadweep Islands.

Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) to review preparations for the cyclone over the Comorin and adjoining Lakshadweep Islands. Cabinet Secretary took stock of the current situation and preparedness for rescue and relief operations and directed that immediate assistance, as required, be provided. "IMD informed that the Depression that had developed in the Comorin Sea, has now intensified into a Cyclonic storm. It is likely to cross Lakshadweep Islands by noon of October 31, 2019, as a Severe Cyclonic Storm and emerge thereafter into the East Central Arabian Sea. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, accompanied by winds reaching upto 90 to 100 kmph and tidal waves up to 1 metre, are expected," Union government said in a press statement. The government said that it was intimated by the Lakshadweep Administration that all necessary preparations have been made by them and fishermen have been recalled to the shore. People living in the low lying areas have been evacuated to shelter homes and are being provided with food and water. Teams of Coast Guard and Indian Navy are on the standby for any eventuality. Senior officials of the Ministries of Home, Defence, as well as those from IMD and NDRF, attended the meeting. Senior officers from the UT Administration participated in the meeting through Video Conference.

Cabinet Secretary chairs NCMC meet to review preparations for cyclone over Comorin, adjoining Lakshadweep Islands

Shiv Sena has issued a list of seven MLAs supporting the party and has claimed its number in the Maharashtra Assembly to be 63, which is seven more than what it bagged in the recently concluded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">state Assembly elections</a>.

As per the list issued by Shiv Sena`s media and communication department, four independent MLAs, Manjula Gavit, Chandrakant Patil, Ashish Jaiswal and Narendra Bhondekar have extended their support to the party. Besides them, Bachchu Kadu and Rajkumar Patel of Prahar Janshkti Party and Shankarrao Gadakh of Krantikari Shetkari Party have also extended their support.

The list was released by Shiv Sena on a day when BJP legislators unanimously chose Devendra Fadnavis as their leader and BJP top brass is claiming that soon a government of `Mahayuti` will be formed in Maharashtra with all allies including Shiv Sena.

Fadnavis on Wednesday said there should be no doubt that it will be a Mahayuti (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maharashtra-bjp-shiv-sena-feud-continues-for-the-cm-post-258477">BJP-Shiv Sena</a>) government in Maharashtra.

Fadnavis was elected as the leader of the BJP legislative party on Wednesday here.

During his speech at the legislative party meeting, Fadnavis said, "This mandate is surely for `Mahayuti` (BJP-Shiv Sena alliance) as we sought votes for `Mahayuti`. People also voted for it. So, there should be no doubt that it will be a `Mahayuti` govt."

The meeting of the party comes amid a tussle between the BJP and Shiv Sena over the chief ministerial post in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena is demanding that power be shared between the two parties for a rotational basis.

The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the recently concluded Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats in the 288 member assembly.

Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections.

Shiv Sena has issued a list of seven MLAs supporting the party and has claimed its number in the Maharashtra Assembly to be 63, which is seven more than what it bagged in the recently concluded state Assembly elections.

Shiv Sena has issued a list of seven MLAs supporting the party and has claimed its number in the Maharashtra Assembly to be 63, which is seven more than what it bagged in the recently concluded state Assembly elections. As per the list issued by Shiv Sena`s media and communication department, four independent MLAs, Manjula Gavit, Chandrakant Patil, Ashish Jaiswal and Narendra Bhondekar have extended their support to the party. Besides them, Bachchu Kadu and Rajkumar Patel of Prahar Janshkti Party and Shankarrao Gadakh of Krantikari Shetkari Party have also extended their support. The list was released by Shiv Sena on a day when BJP legislators unanimously chose Devendra Fadnavis as their leader and BJP top brass is claiming that soon a government of `Mahayuti` will be formed in Maharashtra with all allies including Shiv Sena. Fadnavis on Wednesday said there should be no doubt that it will be a Mahayuti (BJP-Shiv Sena) government in Maharashtra. Fadnavis was elected as the leader of the BJP legislative party on Wednesday here. During his speech at the legislative party meeting, Fadnavis said, "This mandate is surely for `Mahayuti` (BJP-Shiv Sena alliance) as we sought votes for `Mahayuti`. People also voted for it. So, there should be no doubt that it will be a `Mahayuti` govt." The meeting of the party comes amid a tussle between the BJP and Shiv Sena over the chief ministerial post in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena is demanding that power be shared between the two parties for a rotational basis. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the recently concluded Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats in the 288 member assembly. Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections.

Amid talks of government formation with BJP, Shiv Sena claims to have support from 7 other MLAs

India celebrates National Unity Day; Thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'. Watch video to know more.

India celebrates National Unity Day; thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'

Girish Chandra Murmu on Thursday took oath as the first Lt. Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The oath was administered by Chief Justice of J&amp;K High Court, Gita Mittal.

IAS officer Girish Chandra Murmu had arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday. Murmu was received by Advisor Farooq Khan and Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam at Srinagar International Airport.

Murmu served as an expenditure secretary at the Centre before getting appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier in the day, Radha Krishna Mathur took oath as the first Lieutenant Governor of Union Territory of Ladakh.

Mathur, a retired 1977-batch IAS officer from Tripura cadre, retired as the Chief Information Commissioner of India in November 2018.

He served as an expenditure secretary at the Centre before getting appointed as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/girish-chandra-murmu-appointed-first-lt-governor-of-jammu-and-kashmir-malik-sent-to-goa-258237">Lieutenant Governor</a> of Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court Geeta Mittal administered the oath to Mathur.

In August this year, the government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.&nbsp;

Girish Chandra Murmu on Thursday took oath as the first Lt. Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The oath was administered by Chief Justice of J&K High Court, Gita Mittal.

Girish Chandra Murmu on Thursday took oath as the first Lt. Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The oath was administered by Chief Justice of J&K High Court, Gita Mittal. IAS officer Girish Chandra Murmu had arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday. Murmu was received by Advisor Farooq Khan and Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam at Srinagar International Airport. Murmu served as an expenditure secretary at the Centre before getting appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier in the day, Radha Krishna Mathur took oath as the first Lieutenant Governor of Union Territory of Ladakh. Mathur, a retired 1977-batch IAS officer from Tripura cadre, retired as the Chief Information Commissioner of India in November 2018. He served as an expenditure secretary at the Centre before getting appointed as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court Geeta Mittal administered the oath to Mathur. In August this year, the government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Srinagar: Girish Chandra Murmu takes oath as first Lt Governor of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news